bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Treatment of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw with cell therapy
Authors: Bouland Cyril Lucien , Javadian Rokneddine , Gilis Sarah , Yanni Antoine , Le Clercq Maxime , Mestrallet Pierre , Kampouridis Stelianos , Bron Dominique , Lalmand Martin , Vanden Eynden Xavier , Boutremans Edward , Dequanter Didier , Loeb Isabelle , Philippart Pierre , Lagneaux Laurence , Meuleman Nathalie 
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) poses a significant challenge considering the absence of a “gold standard” treatment. Cell-based therapy and tissue engineering offer promising therapeutic alternatives. This study aimed to harness the regenerative properties of adipose-tissue stromal vascular fraction (AT-SVF) and leukocyte-platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) for MRONJ treatment. AT-SVF contains mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) and endothelial progenitor cells (EPC), which promote bone formation, while the L-PRF scaffold can serve as a three-dimensional scaffold for the AT-SVF and support tissue healing through growth factor release.Materials and methods: The protocol involved applying autologous AT-SVF within an L-PRF matrix following surgical debridement. Age, gender, body mass index, comorbidities, underlying oncological condition, prescribed antiresorptive treatment: BP or DMB, antiresorptive treatment duration, antiresorptive treatment potential discontinuation, number of MRONJ lesion, MRONJ location, MRONJ stage, MRONJ trigger factor were assessed for each patient. Patients underwent the procedure and were monitored for a minimum of 6 months based on clinical, biological and medical imaging criteria.Results: Nine patients, with a total of ten MRONJ lesions, participated in the study. Six patients were female, and three were male, with a mean age of 68 ± 8 years. Four patients had multiple myeloma (MM), three had metastatic breast cancer, and two had metastatic prostate cancer. Seven MRONJ cases were classified as stage II, and three were classified as stage III. Soft tissue completely healed within a month after treatment in nine cases, with no clinical improvement observed in the remaining case. During follow-up, no sign of MRONJ recurrence was observed. Tridimensional medical imaging revealed bone healing 6 months after the surgical procedure. Immunophenotyping confirmed the presence of MSC and EPC in the AT-SVF: 12,6 ± 4,5% CD31+, 20.5 ± 7,8% CD34+, 34,4 ± 7,3% CD146+ and 54,6 ± 7,4% CD45+.Conclusion: This prospective study introduces a potential new treatment approach for MRONJ using autologous AT-SVF within an L-PRF scaffold. Our results are encouraging and suggest the need for further investigation with a larger patient cohort to better understand the underlying mechanisms.
Examining differences in time to appointment and no-show rates between rural telehealth users and non-users
Authors: Pullyblank Kristin , Krupa Nicole , Scribani Melissa , Chapman Amanda , Kern Megan , Brunner Wendy 
Published: January 2024

BackgroundTelehealth has undergone widespread implementation since 2020 and is considered an invaluable tool to improve access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas. However, telehealth's applicability may be limited for certain populations including those who live in rural, medically underserved communities. While broadband access is a recognized barrier, other important factors including age and education influence a person's ability or preference to engage with telehealth via video telehealth or a patient portal. It remains unclear the degree to which these digital technologies lead to disparities in access to care.PurposeThe purpose of this analysis is to determine if access to healthcare differs for telehealth users compared with non-users.MethodsUsing electronic health record data, we evaluated differences in “time to appointment” and “no-show rates” between telehealth users and non-users within an integrated healthcare network between August 2021 and January 2022. We limited analysis to patient visits in endocrinology or outpatient behavioral health departments. We analyzed new patients and established patients separately.ResultsTelehealth visits were associated with shorter time to appointment for new and established patients in endocrinology and established patients in behavioral health, as well as with lower no-show rates for established patients in both departments.ConclusionsThe findings suggest that those who are unwilling or unable to engage with telehealth may have more difficulty accessing timely care.
Efficacy and safety of Gegen Qinlian decoction in the treatment of type II diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Tan YiMei , Liu ShuangHua , Huang MengHe , Cheng Hui , Xu BinBin , Luo HongSheng , Tang QiZhi 
Published: January 2024

AimThe study aims to systematically assess the efficacy and safety of Gegen Qinlian decoction in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.MethodsWe systematically searched a total of nine databases from the time of creation to 20 March 2023. The quality of the literature was assessed using the risk of bias assessment tool in the Cochrane Handbook. RevMan 5. 3 and Stata 14.0 were applied to conduct meta-analysis.ResultsA total of 17 studies, encompassing 1,476 patients, were included in the study. Gegen Qinlian decoction combined with conventional treatment was found to significantly reduce FBG (MD = −0.69 mmol/L, 95% CI −0.84 to −0.55, p &lt; 0.01; I2 = 67%, p&lt;0.01), 2hPG (MD = −0.97 mmol/L, 95% CI −1.13 to −0.81, p &lt; 0.01; I2 = 37%, p=0.09), HbA1c (MD = −0.65%, 95% CI −0.78 to −0.53, p &lt; 0.01; I2 = 71%, p&lt;0.01), TC (MD = −0.51 mmol/L, 95% CI −0.62 to −0.41, p &lt; 0.01; I2 = 45%, p=0.09), TG (MD = −0.17mmol/L, 95% CI −0.29 to −0.05, p &lt; 0.01; I2 = 78%, p&lt;0.01), LDL-C (MD = −0.38mmol/L, 95% CI −0.53 to −0.23, p &lt; 0.01; I2 = 87%, p&lt;0.01), HOMA-IR (SMD = −1.43, 95% CI −2.32 to −0.54, p &lt; 0.01; I2 = 94%, p&lt;0.01), and improved HDL-C (MD = 0.13 mmol/L, 95% CI 0.09–0.17, p &lt; 0.01; I2 = 30%, p=0.24). Only three studies explored the differences in efficacy between GQD alone and conventional treatment in improving glucose–lipid metabolism and insulin resistance, and some of the outcome indicators, such as 2hPG and HDL-C, were examined in only one study. Therefore, the effect of GQD alone on glucose–lipid metabolism and insulin resistance cannot be fully determined, and more high-quality studies are needed to verify it. Publication bias analysis revealed no bias in the included studies.ConclusionGegen Qinlian Decoction has certain efficacy and safety in enhancing glycolipid metabolism and alleviating insulin resistance, potentially serving as a complementary therapy for type 2 diabetes mellitus. Rigorous, large-sample, multicenter RCTs are needed to verify this.Systematic review registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023413758, PROSPERO CRD42023413758.
An updated systematic review and meta-analysis of the effects of testosterone replacement therapy on erectile function and prostate
Authors: Xu Zhunan , Chen Xiangyu , Zhou Hang , Ren Congzhe , Wang Qihua , Pan Yang , Liu Li , Liu Xiaoqiang 
Published: January 2024

IntroductionTestosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is a generally accepted method treating for aging-related late-onset hypogonadism (LOH). However, the efficacy and safety of TRT remain controversial. An updated systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the effectiveness and security of TRT treating for LOH.MethodsRandomized controlled trials (RCTs) of TRT for LOH were searched in the databases of Pubmed, Embase, Clinicaltrials.gov and Cochrane from 1990 to 2023 and an updated meta-analysis was conducted.ResultsThe results of 28 RCTs involving 3461 patients were included and scrutinized in this analysis. Among these, 11 RCTs were of long-term duration (≥12 months), while 18 RCTs were short-term studies (&lt;12 months) comparing TRT with a placebo. TRT modalities comprised injection, oral administration, and transdermal administration. International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) (Weighted Mean difference (WMD) 3.26; 95%; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.65—4.88; P&lt;0.0001) was obviously improved in the TRT group. International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) (WMD 0.00; 95% CI -0.45—0.45; P=1.0), Prostate Volume (PV) (WMD 0.38; 95% CI -0.64—1.41; P=0.46), Maximum Flow Rate (Qmax) (WMD 1.86; 95% CI -0.98—4.69; P=0.20), Postvoid Residual Urine Volume (PVR) (WMD 3.20; 95% CI -5.87—12.28; P=0.49) and Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) (WMD 0.08; 95% CI -0.00—0.17; P=0.06) were not significantly statistical between two groups.ConclusionThis meta-analysis reveals that TRT could improve the IIEF score of hypogonadal men without detriment to the IPSS score, PV, Qmax, PVR and PSA regardless of the administration method or duration of treatment.The meta-analysis was registered at PROSPERO (CRD42023413434).
Genetic variations in NLRP3 and NLRP12 genes in adult-onset patients with autoinflammatory diseases: a comparative study
Authors: Yun Mark , Deng Zuoming , Navetta-Modrov Brianne , Xin Baozhong , Yang Jie , Nomani Hafsa , Aroniadis Olga , Gorevic Peter D. , Yao Qingping 
Published: January 2024

ObjectivesCryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome or NLRP3-associated autoinflammatory disease (NLRP3-AID) and NLRP12-AID are both Mendelian disorders with autosomal dominant inheritance. Both diseases are rare, primarily reported in the pediatric population, and are thought to be phenotypically indistinguishable. We provide the largest cohort of adult-onset patients and compared these diseases and the gene variant frequency to population controls.MethodsA cohort of adult patients with AIDs were retrospectively studied. All underwent molecular testing for periodic fever syndrome gene panels after extensive and negative workups for systemic autoimmune and other related diseases. Patients were divided into Group 1- NLRP3-AID patients with NLRP3 variants (N=15), Group 2- NLRP12-AID with NLRP12 variants (N=14) and Group 3- both NLRP3 and NLRP12 (N=9) variants. Exome sequence data of two large control populations including the ARIC study were used to compare gene variant distribution and frequency.ResultsAll 38 patients were Caucasian with women accounting for 82%. Median age at diagnosis was 41 ± 23 years and the disease duration at diagnosis was 14 ± 13 years. We identified statistically significant differences between the groups, notably that gastrointestinal symptoms as well as evaluations for same were significantly more frequent in patients with NLRP12 variants, and headaches/dizziness were less common among the NLRP12 patients. Livedo reticularis was noted in four patients, exclusively among NLRP12 carriers. Over 50% of patients in Groups 1 and 2 carry low-frequency disease-associated variants, while the remaining carry rare variants. We unprecedently identified digenic variants, i.e., the coexistence of NLRP3 and NLRP12, which were either both low frequency or low frequency/rare. Allele frequencies of all variants identified in our cohort were either absent or significantly lower in the control populations, further strengthening the evidence of susceptibility of these variants to SAID phenotypes.ConclusionOur comparative study shows that both NLRP3-AID and NLRP12-AID share similar clinical phenotypes, yet there are significant differences between them with regard to gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms. A spectrum of high to low genetic variations in both genes can contribute to SAID individually or in combination.
Integrated analysis reveals crosstalk between pyroptosis and immune regulation in renal fibrosis
Authors: Bai Fengxia , Han Longchao , Yang Jifeng , Liu Yuxiu , Li Xiangmeng , Wang Yaqin , Jiang Ruijian , Zeng Zhaomu , Gao Yan , Zhang Haisong 
Published: January 2024

PurposeThe pathogenesis of renal fibrosis (RF) involves intricate interactions between profibrotic processes and immune responses. This study aimed to explore the potential involvement of the pyroptosis signaling pathway in immune microenvironment regulation within the context of RF. Through comprehensive bioinformatics analysis and experimental validation, we investigated the influence of pyroptosis on the immune landscape in RF.MethodsWe obtained RNA-seq datasets from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases and identified Pyroptosis-Associated Regulators (PARs) through literature reviews. Systematic evaluation of alterations in 27 PARs was performed in RF and normal kidney samples, followed by relevant functional analyses. Unsupervised cluster analysis revealed distinct pyroptosis modification patterns. Using single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA), we examined the correlation between pyroptosis and immune infiltration. Hub regulators were identified via weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA) and further validated in a single-cell RNA-seq dataset. We also established a unilateral ureteral obstruction-induced RF mouse model to verify the expression of key regulators at the mRNA and protein levels.ResultsOur comprehensive analysis revealed altered expression of 19 PARs in RF samples compared to normal samples. Five hub regulators, namely PYCARD, CASP1, AIM2, NOD2, and CASP9, exhibited potential as biomarkers for RF. Based on these regulators, a classifier capable of distinguishing normal samples from RF samples was developed. Furthermore, we identified correlations between immune features and PARs expression, with PYCARD positively associated with regulatory T cells abundance in fibrotic tissues. Unsupervised clustering of RF samples yielded two distinct subtypes (Subtype A and Subtype B), with Subtype B characterized by active immune responses against RF. Subsequent WGCNA analysis identified PYCARD, CASP1, and NOD2 as hub PARs in the pyroptosis modification patterns. Single-cell level validation confirmed PYCARD expression in myofibroblasts, implicating its significance in the stress response of myofibroblasts to injury. In vivo experimental validation further demonstrated elevated PYCARD expression in RF, accompanied by infiltration of Foxp3+ regulatory T cells.ConclusionsOur findings suggest that pyroptosis plays a pivotal role in orchestrating the immune microenvironment of RF. This study provides valuable insights into the pathogenesis of RF and highlights potential targets for future therapeutic interventions.
Satellite tagging confirms long distance movement and fast dispersal of Patagonian toothfish (Dissostichus eleginoides) in the Southwest Atlantic
Authors: Kim Eunjung , Lam Chi Hin , Park Gyum Joon , Lee Jong Hee 
Published: January 2024

IntroductionTo better understand Patagonian toothfish (Dissostichus eleginoides) movement and habitat in the Southwest Atlantic, fifty popup satellite archival tags (PSATs) were deployed off Davis Bank on North Scotia Ridge between 2019 and 2020 on individuals ranging from 97-139 cm total length.MethodsPSATs (18 Lotek Wireless PSATFLEX and 32 Wildlife Computers MiniPAT) were programmed to detach after completing 1 to 16-month missions recording pressure (depth) and water temperature.ResultsSix tags failed to report, and among the remaining 44 reporting tags, 34 reported on schedule, up to 487 days at sea – the longest electronic tag deployment for this species to date. Although the majority of PSATs reported within 50 km from the release sites, confirming high site fidelity, 12% of tags reported more than 200 km away, showing connectivity to Shag Rocks and South Georgia in the Southern Ocean. Toothfish moved across the Antarctic Polar Front through/to areas with no fishing activities, and hence, explained the absence of any previous conventional tag recapture. A 1-month transit to the Falkland/Malvinas Plateau Basin also revealed that toothfish can attain a surprisingly high movement rate of 33 km day-1.DiscussionFishery independent examples of toothfish presence and their movement capabilities are inviting us to broaden our examination on how toothfish move around their Scotia Arc habitats and link up different regional aggregation sites in the South Atlantic.
Optimizing aquaculture-scale common carp artificial reproduction: a novel approach to sperm cryopreservation using large-volume containers and elevated thawing temperatures
Authors: Sotnikov Anatolii , Rodina Marek , Gela David , Boryshpolets Sergii , Kholodnyy Vitaliy , Kašpar Vojtěch , Linhart Otomar , Dzyuba Borys 
Published: January 2024

IntroductionThe successful cryopreservation of common carp sperm is crucial for its application in aquaculture and selective breeding programs. This study investigates the efficacy of cryopreserving sperm in large containers (5 mL) with a low dilution rate (1:1) in three different cryoprotective media and thawing in different conditions.MethodsThe developed method utilizes a low-ionic (hypotonic) cryoprotective medium, freezing with a controlled cooling rate, and high-temperature sperm thawing (60°C). The investigation employs a detailed spermatozoon motility assessment.ResultsPost-thaw motility of 32.3% ± 14% and initial curvilinear velocity of 89 ± 20 μm/s across 30 males were observed. Principal component analysis of sperm kinematic characteristics revealed distinct populations of sperm cells exhibiting varying responses to cryopreservation. The developed method achieved successful fertilization comparable to that of the non-frozen control group using sperm from a single cryotube (2.5 mL, approximately 50 * 109 spermatozoa) to fertilize 200 g of eggs (1:120,000 egg:spz).DiscussionThis novel approach demonstrates an effective cryopreservation protocol for common carp sperm in large-volume cryo-containers in combination with low-ionic cryomedia and high thawing temperature, providing methods well-suited for fisheries practices and selective breeding programs. Future studies of the biological properties of different sperm subpopulations in post-thaw sperm samples can contribute to a deeper understanding of sperm biology, improve cryopreservation techniques, and enhance the success rates of assisted reproductive technologies.
COVID-19-related retinal microvasculopathy and systemic implications in patients with severe disease: results from the Methuselah study
Authors: Castellino Niccolò , Longo Antonio , Russo Andrea , Bonfiglio Vincenza , Fallico Matteo , Toro Mario Damiano , Cappellani Francesco , Grillo Marco , Gaudio Agostino , Lo Cicero Lorenzo , Sessa Concetto , Colaci Michele , Malatino Lorenzo , Castellino Pietro , Avitabile Teresio , Zanoli Luca 
Published: January 2024

ObjectivesTo assess the reversibility of retinal microvascular changes in the long term and to investigate the potential links with other vascular diseases of COVID-19.MethodsWe designed a prospective multicenter observational study. Patients were enrolled from the Methuselah study cohort. Retinal vascular function was studied in these patients using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA); aortic stiffness was measured using aortic pulse wave velocity. These examinations were performed 1 (Visit 1) and 12 (Visit 2) months after the hospital discharge for severe COVID-19. A control subject group matched for age and sex was included to define normal values.ResultsA total of 28 control subjects (56 eyes) and 25 patients (50 eyes) completed the scheduled OCTA assessment; 18 patients (36 eyes) also completed the macrovascular examination. Compared to controls, the vessel density of the superficial capillary plexus (SCP) was reduced, whereas the foveal avascular zone area was enlarged at Visit 1 (p = 0.016 and &lt; 0.001, respectively) and was not modified after the 12-month follow-up in COVID-19 patients (p = 0.011 and 0.001, respectively). Higher inflammation and lower renal function during hospitalization were linked to higher aortic stiffness and reduced vessel density of the SCP 1 month after the acute phase of COVID-19. A slower recovery of aortic dysfunction was linked to worse retinal vascular outcomes at Visit 2.ConclusionRetinal vascular alterations were not reversible 12 months after COVID-19 and were linked to inflammation and renal dysfunction during hospitalization as well as to aortic stiffness measured during follow-up.
Biodiversity of network modules drives ecosystem functioning in biochar-amended paddy soil
Authors: Xiao Yu , Zhou Guixiang , Qiu Xiuwen , Liu Fangming , Chen Lin , Zhang Jiabao 
Published: January 2024

IntroductionSoil microbes are central in governing soil multifunctionality and driving ecological processes. Despite biochar application has been reported to enhance soil biodiversity, its impacts on soil multifunctionality and the relationships between soil taxonomic biodiversity and ecosystem functioning remain controversial in paddy soil.MethodsHerein, we characterized the biodiversity information on soil communities, including bacteria, fungi, protists, and nematodes, and tested their effects on twelve ecosystem metrics (including functions related to enzyme activities, nutrient provisioning, and element cycling) in biochar-amended paddy soil.ResultsThe biochar amendment augmented soil multifunctionality by 20.1 and 35.7% in the early stage, while the effects were diminished in the late stage. Moreover, the soil microbial diversity and core modules were significantly correlated with soil multifunctionality.DiscussionOur analysis revealed that not just soil microbial diversity, but specifically the biodiversity within the identified microbial modules, had a more pronounced impact on ecosystem functions. These modules, comprising diverse microbial taxa, especially protists, played key roles in driving ecosystem functioning in biochar-amended paddy soils. This highlights the importance of understanding the structure and interactions within microbial communities to fully comprehend the impact of biochar on soil ecosystem functioning in the agricultural ecosystem.
The association between closed-eye unipedal standing and the risk of cognitive impairment in the elderly: a 7-year community-based cohort study in Wuhan, China
Authors: Wang Shiwei , Guo Peng , Huang Chengjing , Zhang Yuqian , Xiang Bing , Zeng Jing , Zhou Feng , Xie Xinyan , Guo Yan , Yang Mei 
Published: January 2024

ObjectivesThe prevention of cognitive impairment in the elderly is one of the public health priority areas. However, the relationship between closed-eye unipedal standing and cognitive impairment remains unclear.MethodsThis study was conducted on a group of elderly individuals from a community, using a prospective cohort study design. Participants were monitored for 7 years and were diagnosed with new-onset cognitive impairment. Logistic regression models and restricted cubic spline (RCS) were used to investigate the relationship between closed-eye unipedal standing and cognitive impairment. Stratified analysis by baseline characteristics were also performed.ResultsAt baseline, 1,652 people aged 65 years or older were enrolled. Ultimately, 880 participants completed the follow-up and 155 (17.61%) of them satisfied the diagnostic criteria for cognitive impairment at follow-up. Compared to the closed-eye unipedal standing low group as the reference, the middle (OR = 0.601, 95% CI: 0.396–0.911) and high (OR = 0.508, 95% CI: 0.329–0.785) groups had significantly lower cognitive impairment risks. RCS analysis indicated a linear relationship (Pnon − linear = 0.177), with a reduced risk of developing cognitive impairment when the duration of closed-eye unipedal standing was exceeded ~2.920 s. Stratified analysis showed that for female, aged 70 years or younger, with 3 or more years of education, without lack of exercise and without falls within 1 year subgroup, the elderly in the high group of closed-eye unipedal standing had significantly reduced cognitive impairment risks.ConclusionAmong the elderly population, closed-eye unipedal standing duration was linearly and negatively associated with the cognitive impairment risk. The closed-eye unipedal standing duration might be a predictive index for cognitive impairment in the elderly.