bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Associations between gut microbiota and osteoporosis or osteopenia in Chinese Han youth
Authors: Lai Junren , Gong Li , Liu Yan , Zhang Xuelian , Liu Wenqi , Han Meng , Zhou Duoqi , Shi Shuiqin 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Osteoporosis (OP) is a common metabolic bone disease characterized by low bone mass and microstructural deterioration of bone. Changes in the composition and relative abundance of gut microbiota (GM) are related to changes of bone mass and bone microstructure. However, the relationship between GM and bone mineral density (BMD) in Chinese Han youth is complex and still sparse. Therefore, 62 Chinese Han youth were recruited as research volunteers, and their GM and BMD were analyzed separately. Furthermore, according to the evaluation criteria of the World Health Organization (WHO), we divided the BMD levels of volunteers into three groups: osteoporosis (BDL), osteopenia (BDM), normal bone density (BDH). The results showed that the dominant phyla of GM in Chinese Han youth were Bacteroides (50.6%) and Firmicutes (41.6%). Anaerobic bacteria, such as Faecalibacterium and Megamonas, account for the largest proportion in Chinese Han youth, which were mainly Firmicutes. Analysis of the species composition of GM showed that the dominant bacterium in the group with normal bone density (BDH) was Bacteroides and the critical bacteria were Alloprevotella, Enterobacteriaceae, Ruminococcus, Sutterella and Haemophilus. The dominant bacteria in the group classified as osteopenic (BDM) were Prevotella, Megamonas and Prevotella_copri. Faecalibacterium and Bacteroides_Plebeius were the dominant bacteria in the osteoporotic group (BDL) and the critical bacteria were Eubacterium_eligens_group and Lachnospiraceae. There were significant differences in Faecalibacterium (P = 0.018), Bacteroides (P = 0.039), Lachnospiraceae (P = 0.027) and Prevotella (P = 0.045) among the groups. In addition, there were extremely significant differences in Subdoligranulum (P = 0.008), Ruminococcus_bicirculans (P = 0.005), Ruminococcus (P = 0.009) and Coprococcus (P = 0.006) among the groups. In conclusion, our results provide a basic scientific basis for the prevention and treatment of OP.
Urinary extracellular vesicle-derived miR-126-3p predicts lymph node invasion in patients with high-risk prostate cancer
Authors: Dong Liang , Hu Cong , Ma Zehua , Huang Yiyao , Shelley Greg , Kuczler Morgan D. , Kim Chi-Ju , Witwer Kenneth W. , Keller Evan T. , Amend Sarah R. , Xue Wei , Pienta Kenneth J. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

To investigate extracellular vesicles (EVs) biomarkers for predicting lymph node invasion (LNI) in patients with high-risk prostate cancer (HRPCa), plasma and/or urine samples were prospectively collected from 45 patients with prostate cancer (PCa) and five with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Small RNA sequencing was performed to identify miRNAs in the EVs. All patients with PCa underwent radical prostatectomy and extended pelvic lymph node dissection. Differentially-expressed miRNAs were identified in patients with and without pathologically-verified LNI. The candidate miRNAs were validated in low-risk prostate cancer (LRPCa) and BPH. Four miRNA species (e.g. miR-126-3p) and three miRNA species (e.g. miR-27a-3p) were more abundant in urinary and plasma EVs, respectively, of patients with PCa. None of these miRNA species were shared between urinary and plasma EVs. miR-126-3p was significantly more abundant in patients with HR PCa with LNI than in those without (P = 0.018). miR-126-3p was significantly more abundant in the urinary EVs of patients with HRPCa than in those with LRPCa (P = 0.017) and BPH (P = 0.011). In conclusion, urinary EVs-derived miR-126-3p may serve as a good biomarker for predicting LNI in patients with HRPCa.
Altered Inflammasome and Immune activation in Paediatric Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Ryan Emer , Kelly Lynne , Melo Ashanty M , Morgan Cian P , Bates Mark , Huggard Dean , Stacey Catherine , Duff Eimear , Leonard Ann , Boran Gerard , Doherty Dermot R , Crimmins Darach , Bolger Turlough , Molloy Eleanor J 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Introduction: Systemic Inflammation is associated with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and therefore is a potential target for immunomodulation. Dysregulated immune function post-TBI increased susceptibility to infection and post-concussive syndrome. The inflammasome is a protein complex associated with an amplified proinflammatory response and is a potential target for immunomodulation that preserves antimicrobial immunity. Methods: Samples from children with mild TBI (mTBI; Glasgow coma scale (GCS) 14/15), severe TBI (sTBI; GCS < 8) and control children were collected at baseline and two week follow up and were treated with endotoxin and melatonin. Toll-like receptor (TLR4; marker of endotoxin responses) and CD11b (activation marker) expression on neutrophils and monocytes were evaluated by flow cytometry. Inflammasome-related genes and cytokines were assessed using TaqMan RT-PCR samples ELISA sandwich immunoassay, respectively. Results: A total of 214 children were enrolled including: TBI (n = 116), with mild TBI (mTBI; Glasgow coma scale (GCS) 14/15) and severe TBI (sTBI; GCS < 8), and (n = 98) control patients collected at baseline and two week follow up. Total monocyte and intermediate monocyte populations were reduced in mTBI at baseline. Neutrophil CD11b and TLR4 expression was decreased in mTBI at 10–14 days. NLRP3 and NLRP1 were downregulated at 10–14 days while IL-1β was increased at baseline at 0–4 days and further elevated by 10–14 days and significantly higher in those with no previous mTBI. Serum cytokines showed lower IL-18 and raised IL-33 in those with mTBI. Prior concussion did not influence serum cytokine levels. In addition, LPS did not stimulate an IL-18 and IL-1β response in the mTBI group at 10–14 days. Conclusions: Children with mTBI had reduced CD11b and TLR4 expression and NLRP3 inflammasome activation. IL-1β mRNA was raised and continued to rise after injury implicating the innate immune system in the subacute phase of injury. Immune dysregulation post-TBI in children may be a target for immunomodulation following further exploration in vitro of potential mechanisms and therapies.
Feasibility of Simultaneous Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation During Gait Training in Chronic Stroke Patients: A Randomized Double-blind Pilot Clinical Trial
Authors: Kim Hyeong-Min , Na Ji-Min , Jo Hyun-Seok , Song Min-Keun , Park Hyeng-Kyu , Choi In-Sung , Yoon Jungwon , Han Jae-Young 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Background
Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a therapeutic tool for improving post-stroke gait disturbances, with ongoing research focusing on specific protocols for its application. We evaluated the feasibility of a rehabilitation protocol that combines tDCS with conventional gait training.
Methods
This was a randomized, double-blind, single-center pilot clinical trial. Patients with unilateral hemiplegia due to ischemic stroke were randomly assigned to either the tDCS with gait training group or the sham stimulation group. The anodal tDCS electrode was placed on the tibialis anterior area of the precentral gyrus while gait training proceeded. Interventions were administered 3 times weekly for 4 weeks. Outcome assessments, using the 10-meter walk test, Timed Up and Go test, Berg Balance Scale, Functional Ambulatory Scale, Modified Barthel Index, and EQ-5D-3L, were conducted before and after the intervention and again at the 8-week mark following its completion. Repeated-measures ANOVA was used for comparisons between and within groups.
Results
Twenty-six patients were assessed for eligibility, and 20 were enrolled and randomized. No significant differences were observed between the tDCS with gait training group and the sham stimulation group in gait speed after the intervention. However, the tDCS with gait training group showed significant improvement in balance performance in both within-group and between-group comparisons. In the subgroup analysis of patients with elicited motor-evoked potentials, comfortable pace gait speed improved in the tDCS with gait training group. No serious adverse events occurred throughout the study.
Conclusions
Simultaneous tDCS during gait training is a feasible rehabilitation protocol for chronic stroke patients with gait disturbances.
Trial registration:
URL: https://cris.nih.go.kr; Registration number: KCT0007601; Date of registration: 11 July 2022
Modeling Phosphorus Retention and Release in Riparian Wetlands Restored on Historically Farmed Land
Authors: Wiegman Adrian R.H. , Underwood Kristen L. , Bowden William B. , Augustin Isabelle C. , Chin Tiffany L. , Roy Eric D. 
Published: March 2024

Nature-based solutions are of interest in efforts to achieve reductions in phosphorus (P) loads to aquatic ecosystems. One potential solution of this kind is the restoration of riparian wetlands. Many candidate sites for riparian wetland restoration were formerly used for agriculture and therefore may contain legacy soil P from past fertilizer and/or manure applications. Here, we combined 2-year field studies of 3 restored riparian wetlands on formerly farmed land in the Lake Champlain Basin, Vermont, United States, with implementation of a novel wetlandP model to estimate net P retention. In the field, we measured variable inorganic P deposition ranging up to approximately 1 g P m-2 yr-1 and collected data on P stocks and fluxes required for modeling. At 2 sites, observed water quality dynamics during flood events were indicative of internal dissolved inorganic P (DIP) release from soils during low oxygen conditions. We calibrated and verified the wetlandP model using field data and used it to examine numerous scenarios. Our simulations indicated variable net total P (TP) retention, driven by a trade-off between particulate P trapping and DIP release, with most plausible scenarios (95 out of 108) indicating that the study wetlands serve as net TP sinks. Our net TP retention estimates (range = -0.06 to 0.45 g P m-2 yr-1, mean P retention efficiency = 35%) are comparable to prior literature and help clarify key drivers. Our modeling results also show that release of legacy soil P as DIP can be sizable in some cases (range in net DIP retention = -0.11 to 0.02 g P m-2 yr-1 ), especially for wetlands receiving river/stream water with low DIP concentration. We present a conceptual framework to help guide prioritization of riparian wetland restoration by ecological engineers and designers when water quality improvement via P retention is a goal.
A Novel Perspective on PCSK9 in Alzheimer’s Disease: A Focus on
Amyloid Beta
Authors: Zhang Huayu , Xu Qian , Zhao Yimeng , He Naiqi , Ren Zhong , Xiang Qiong , Tang Zhihan , Liu Lushan 
Published: March 2024

Abstract:
The proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) belongs to a member
of the proprotein convertase (PC) family, which is mainly secreted by the liver and
plays a central role in lipid metabolism. Furthermore, PCSK9 plays a multifunctional
role in promoting the inflammatory response, inducing cell apoptosis and pyroptosis and
affecting tumor homeostasis. The brain is the organ with the richest lipid content. Incidentally,
PCSK9 increased in many brain diseases, including brain injury and
Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Consequently, the relationship between PCSK9 and brain diseases
has attracted increasing research interest. Amyloid beta (Aβ) accumulation is the
central and initial event in the pathogenesis of AD. This study focuses on the effects of
PCSK9 on Aβ accumulation in the brain via multiple modalities to explore the potential
role of PCSK9 in AD, which is characterized by progressive loss of brain cells by increasing
Aβ accumulation. The study also explores the new mechanism by which PCSK9
is involved in the pathogenesis of AD, providing interesting and innovative guidance
for the future of PCSK9-targeted therapy for AD.
Effect of Benzodiazepines and Z-Drug Medications During Antenatal and Postnatal Depression and Anxiety: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Xin Di , Wang Yan , Hua Guangping , Liu Tuo 
Published: March 2024

Background:
Benzodiazepines (BZD) and Z-drugs are often prescribed for alleviating
such symptoms and treating maternal psychiatric disorders and epilepsy. However, their use is
limited due to the apprehensions and risks related to poor maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Objective:
This meta-analysis evaluated the rationality and efficacy of using Benzodiazepines
and Z-drugs for managing anxiety and depression in pregnant women.

Methods:
The meta-analysis was based on a systematic review through keyword search utilizing
Scopus, Pubmed, and Cochrane databases. One hundred three articles were deemed eligible, but
only 21 articles were selected for the meta-analysis.

Results:
The meta-analysis showed that despite the indication for anxiety and depression in
pregnant women, the usage of BZD and Z-drugs was significantly low compared to other
psychotropic medications, with no therapy or non-pharmacological interventions. Our study
shows that, during the antenatal and postnatal period, women required more anti-depressants,
anti-psychotics, and anxiolytic drugs.

Conclusion:
Although BZDs and Z-drugs are effective in managing insomnia during peripartum
and post-partum, they are either ineffective or contraindicated for managing anxiety and depression
in pregnant women compared to anxiolytics and anti-depressants.
Phase Separation of Chromatin Structure-related Biomolecules: A Driving
Force for Epigenetic Regulations
Authors: Wang Jiao , Chen Yuchen , Xiao Zixuan , Liu Xikai , Liu Chengyu , Huang Kun , Chen Hong 
Published: March 2024

Abstract:
Intracellularly, membrane-less organelles are formed by spontaneous fusion and fission
of macro-molecules in a process called phase separation, which plays an essential role in cellular
activities. In certain disease states, such as cancers and neurodegenerative diseases, aberrant phase
separations take place and participate in disease progression. Chromatin structure-related proteins,
based on their characteristics and upon external stimuli, phase separate to exert functions like
genome assembly, transcription regulation, and signal transduction. Moreover, many chromatin
structure-related proteins, such as histones, histone-modifying enzymes, DNA-modifying enzymes,
and DNA methylation binding proteins, are involved in epigenetic regulations through
phase separation. This review introduces phase separation and how phase separation affects epigenetics
with a focus on chromatin structure-related molecules.
Biosensor Based on Zif-8-905% Metal-organic Nanocomposite and
Carbon Nanotubes Associated with Concanavalin a for Detection of
Alpha-fetoprotein
Authors: Queiroz Felix Aiany Maria , Alves Júnior Severino , da Silva Júnior Alberto Galdino , Cristiny Pereira Michelly , Lima Oliveira Maria Danielly , de Andrade César Augusto Souza 
Published: March 2024

Introduction::
Lung carcinoma presents an aggressive evolution, with its carriers having
reduced survival. Late diagnosis is one of the main factors of death. In the neoplasia in question,
there is an established correlation with increases in Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) serum concentrations.

Methos:
Commonly used diagnostic methods are invasive or inaccessible. Therefore, a low-cost,
non-invasive method would be extremely promising, and biomarkers can be used to achieve this
goal. Electrochemical biosensors are a promising approach for detecting analytes of clinical interest
using innovative bioreceptors. In this work, we obtained an electrochemical biosensor based on a
hybrid ligand metal-organic structure (ZIF-8-905%) and functionalized carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs-
COOH) in association with the lectin Concanavalin A (ConA), as a biorecognition element for detecting
AFP in human serum from patients with lung carcinoma. Cyclic Voltammetry (CV), Square
Wave Voltammetry (SWV), and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) were used to characterize
the development of this biosensor. Microscopic analysis through Atomic Force Microscopy
(AFM) revealed the formation of ConA-AFP complexes, pointing out the sensor's ability to identify
the target analyte.

Results:
The blocking electron transfer effect in the electrode-redox pair interface assessed AFP
detection. The ZIF-8-905%/MWCNTs-COOH/ConA platform exhibited a limit of detection (LOD) of
7.98 ng/mL, and a limit of quantification (LOQ) of 23.78ng/mL was also estimated. In addition, the
biosensor showed excellent selectivity towards interfering biomolecules.

Conclusion::
Therefore, the biosensor represents an efficient form of detection, contributing to research
that aims to detect tumor biomarkers and ensure better prognoses.
Protective Effects of Murraya koenigii: Focus on Antihyperlipidemic Property
Authors: Pinto Pearl , Cojandaraj Louis 
Published: March 2024

:
In the current scenario, discovery of natural bioactive components can be considered as a
major development in treating common ailments. One of the medicinally important herbs is Murraya
koenigii. The biological functions are promoted by the leaves, fruits, roots, and bark of this beautiful
plant. It is the carbazole alkaloids that promote most of the medicinal properties and contribute to the
anti-oxidative properties as well. Terpenoids, Flavonoids, Saponins and Phenols isolated from different
parts of the plant have unique hypocholestrolemic and antidiabetic activities. Among commonly
used alternative therapies, plant sterols present in M. koenigii may help to reduce cholesterol and
triglyceride levels, in turn managing heart diseases. Experimental animal studies are proving the hypolipidemic
ability of M. koenigii. Possible mechanisms involved in exhibiting such an amazing hypolipidemic
ability can be attributed to the phytochemicals, some of which can reduce the absorption
of cholesterol in the intestines or accelerate the catabolism of fats. In contrast, others can inhibit the
enzyme HMG CoA reductase. M. koenigii can inhibit pancreatic lipase. Such a response could be due
to the presence of carbazole alkaloids like Mahanimbin, Isomahanine, Murrayacinine, Koenimbine,
Mahanimboline, Murrayazolinine, Girinimbine etc. These enzymes can be selected for the pharmaceutical
mediation of hypocholesterolemia agents. A triumph over the production of lipids in the
hepatic cells is achieved upon feeding M. koenigii, thereby bringing about a drastic fall in triglyceride
levels. The present review provides a better understanding of the major components of M. koenigii
against dyslipidemia that could serve as an herbal alternative while treating other pathological conditions.
Although various extracts of M. koenigii have numerous medical applications, an extensive
investigation of their toxicity, along with more clinical trials and standardization of protocols, is required
to produce modern drugs from these leaf extracts.
Redox-signalling and Redox Biomarkers in Cardiovascular Health and Disease
Authors: Sultana Yasmin , Kaur Lang Damanpreet , Santosh Alex Thomson , Khabiya Rakhi , Dwivedi Akanksha , Sen Saikat , Chakraborty Raja 
Published: March 2024

Abstract:
Overproduction of reactive nitrogen and oxygen species (RNS and ROS) has been
linked to the pathogenesis of diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, stroke, angina, and other
cardiovascular diseases. These species are produced in part by the mitochondrial respiratory
chain, NADPH oxidase, and xanthine oxidase. RNS and ROS both contribute to oxidative stress,
which is necessary for the development of cardiovascular disorders. In addition to ROS species
like hydroxyl ion, hydrogen peroxide, and superoxide anion, RNS species like nitric oxide,
peroxynitrous acid, peroxynitrite, and nitrogen dioxide radicals have also been linked to a
number of cardiovascular conditions. They promote endothelial dysfunction, vascular
inflammation, lipid peroxidation, and oxidative damage, all of which contribute to the
development of cardiovascular pathologies. It's crucial to understand the mechanisms that result
in the production of RNS and ROS in order to identify potential therapeutic targets. Redox
biomarkers serve as indicators of oxidative stress, making them crucial tools for diagnosing and
predicting cardiovascular states. The advancements in proteomics, metabolomics, genomics, and
transcriptomics have made the identification and detection of these small molecules possible.
The following redox biomarkers are notable examples: 3-nitrotyrosine, 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal, 8-
iso-prostaglandin F2, 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine, malondialdehyde, Diacron reactive oxygen
metabolites, total thiol, and specific microRNAs (e.g. miRNA199, miRNA21, miRNA1254,
miRNA1306-5p, miRNA26b-5p, and miRNA660-5p) are examples. Although redox biomarkers
have great potential, their clinical applicability faces challenges. Redox biomarkers frequently
have a short half-life and exist in small quantities in the blood, making them challenging to
identify and measure. The interpretation of biomarker data may also be influenced by
confounding factors and the complex interplay of various oxidative stress pathways. Therefore,
in-depth validation studies and the development of sensitive and precise detection methods are
needed to address these problems. In the search for redox biomarkers, cutting-edge techniques
like mass spectrometry, immunoassays, and molecular diagnostics are applied. New platforms
and technologies have made it possible to accurately detect and monitor redox biomarkers,
which facilitates their use in clinical settings. Our expanding knowledge of RNS and ROS
involvement in cardiovascular disorders has made it possible to develop redox biomarkers as
diagnostic and prognostic tools. Overcoming the challenges associated with their utility and
utilizing advanced detection techniques, which will improve their clinical applicability, will
ultimately benefit the management and treatment of cardiovascular conditions.
RGIE: A Gene Selection Method Related to Radiotherapy Resistance in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Meng Qingzhe , Liu Dunhui , Huang Junhong , Yang Xinjie , Li Huan , Yang Zihui , Wang Jun , Gao Wanpeng , Li Yahui , Liu Rong , Yang Liying , Wei Jianhua 
Published: March 2024

Background::
Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) is a malignant
tumor with a high degree of malignancy, invasiveness, and metastasis rate. Radiotherapy, as an
important adjuvant therapy for HNSCC, can reduce the postoperative recurrence rate and improve
the survival rate. Identifying the genes related to HNSCC radiotherapy resistance
(HNSCC-RR) is helpful in the search for potential therapeutic targets. However, identifying
radiotherapy resistance-related genes from tens of thousands of genes is a challenging task.
While interactions between genes are important for elucidating complex biological processes,
the large number of genes makes the computation of gene interactions infeasible.

Methods::
We propose a gene selection algorithm, RGIE, which is based on ReliefF, Gene Network
Inference with Ensemble of Trees (GENIE3) and Feature Elimination. ReliefF was used to
select a feature subset that is discriminative for HNSCC-RR, GENIE3 constructed a gene regulatory
network based on this subset to analyze the regulatory relationship among genes, and feature
elimination was used to remove redundant and noisy features.

Results::
Nine genes (SPAG1, FIGN, NUBPL, CHMP5, TCF7L2, COQ10B, BSDC1, ZFPM1,
GRPEL1) were identified and used to identify HNSCC-RR, which achieved performances of
0.9730, 0.9679, 0.9767, and 0.9885 in terms of accuracy, precision, recall, and AUC, respectively.
Finally, qRT-PCR validated the differential expression of the nine signature genes in cell
lines (SCC9, SCC9-RR).

Conclusion::
RGIE is effective in screening genes related to HNSCC-RR. This approach may
help guide clinical treatment modalities for patients and develop potential treatments.