bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Exploration of the anti-inflammatory potential of Polygonum bistorta L.: protection against LPS-induced acute lung injury in rats via NF-ĸβ pathway inhibition
Authors: Parveen Sajida , Khan Kashif ur Rehman , Iqbal Shahid Muhammad , Aati Hanan Y. , Al-taweel Areej M. , Hussain Liaqat , Hussain Musaddique 
Published: February 2025

Traditional medicine uses the roots and rhizomes of Polygonum bistorta L. (Polygonaceae) to treat cough, bronchitis, and other respiratory infections. Our goal was to gain insights into the lung protective effects of the roots of P. bistorta L. against lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury in rats, along with the possible mechanism(s). The outcomes revealed deliberate quantities of the total phenolic and flavonoid contents of 156.2 ± 5.13 GAE/g and 179.45 ± 2.08 mg QE/g, respectively. Crude extract possesses a maximum inhibitory potential of 81.77% ± 0.62% for acetylcholinesterase against eserine. Acute oral toxicity study revealed LD50 beyond 7 g/kg. Plant extract markedly restored LPS-induced hypoxemia, pulmonary edema, histopathological alterations, and leukocyte infiltration in the lung. ELISA testing on BALF found that the plant extract efficiently reinstated superoxide dismutase, total anti-oxidant capacity, malondialdehyde, and total oxidative stress. qRT-PCR indicated a decline in the endotoxin-induced overproduction of pro-inflammatory markers, oxidative stress, transcription factor, and downregulated antioxidant potential in extract-treated groups. Furthermore, 24 metabolites were identified and quantified via GC-MS. A molecular docking procedure was implemented on the bioactive metabolites that were identified to evaluate their potential for inhibiting AChE. In conclusion, P. bistorta roots mitigate inflammation and oxidative stress by improving redox signaling and NF-ĸβ (p65) pathways and can thus play a role in strategies for overcoming therapeutic challenges.
Stachydrine targeting tumor-associated macrophages inhibit colorectal cancer liver metastasis by regulating the JAK2/STAT3 pathway
Authors: Gui Yang , Xue Gengchen , Yuan Yuyi , Wang Jingbo , Deng Shuangjiao , Gao Fei , Tian Yushi , Zhao Zhiqiang , Fan Heng 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionColorectal cancer (CRC) represents the third most prevalent form of cancer worldwide, with liver metastasis representing a significant contributor to mortality. The interaction between tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and tumor cells plays a pivotal role in the development of colorectal cancer liver metastases (CRLM) and represents a promising avenue for therapeutic intervention. Stachydrine (STA), a compound derived from the Leonurus heterophyllus plant, has been shown to effectively inhibit tumor growth through a range of mechanisms.MethodsThe study employed imaging and histopathology to evaluate the efficacy of STA monotherapy in preventing CRLM. The inhibition of M2 macrophage polarization by STA was confirmed through the use of flow cytometry and immunofluorescence. Subsequently, a series of assays, including quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), flow cytometry, scratch, invasion, and tube formation assays, were conducted to confirm STA’s capacity to impede tumor cell migration, invasion, and angiogenesis in vitro. Western blotting and flow cytometry were employed to elucidate the mechanisms through which STA exerts its effects on tumor metastasis.ResultsIn our research, STA has been shown to attenuate liver metastasis in CRC mouse models by inhibiting the polarization of macrophages to the M2 phenotype. This anti-metastatic effect is dependent on the presence of macrophages. In vitro, STA has been found to impede tumor cell migration, invasion, and angiogenesis by preventing TAMs from polarizing to the M2 phenotype via the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. Moreover, the combination of STA with anti-PD-1 therapy has been observed to restore immune infiltration within the tumor microenvironment and inhibit tumor progression.ConclusionThe findings of this study demonstrate that STA exerts an inhibitory effect on colorectal cancer liver metastasis by targeting macrophages and impeding their M2 polarization via the JAK2/STAT3 pathway. Furthermore, the combination of STA with anti-PD-1 therapy has been observed to enhance the effectiveness of immune checkpoint blockade and reduce tumor spread, indicating the potential of STA to improve the efficacy of immunotherapy for liver metastases.
Drug utilization study of antiparkinsonian medication in Romania during 25 years
Authors: Bucsa Camelia , Bruhs Denisa , Apan Anamaria , Francu Elena , Mogosan Cristina , Iaru Irina 
Published: February 2025

BackgroundAntiparkinsonian medication has significantly evolved over the last 2 decades, offering various pharmacologic approaches. The aim of this study was to explore the trends and to determine the statistical significance of the observed changes in the antiparkinsonian medication utilization in Romania during 1998–2022.MethodsThis antiparkinsonian drug utilization study used data provided by CEGEDIM Romania, originating from the Pharma and Hospital Report. Quantitative data for each ATC N04 antiparkinsonian medication were converted to total defined daily doses (DDDs) and to DDD/1000inhabitants/day (DDD/TID). The autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model was employed to determine the statistical significance of the observed changes in the trends of antiparkinsonian drug use.ResultsThe utilization of antiparkinsonian medication increased considerably (6-folds) in Romania during the 25 years, from 1.03 DDD/TID in 1998 to 6.22 DDD/TID in 2022. Starting 2005, dopamine precursor (levodopa) became the most used antiparkinsonian drug and remained on this position until the end of the study (13-fold increase from 0.17 in 1998 to 2.30 DDD/TID in 2022). MAO-B inhibitors represented the second most used antiparkinsonian drug class for the majority of the years. Selegiline was the most used until 2017 (0.82 DDD/TID), when a decrease in use was observed and continued until 2022 (0.49 DDD/TID). Utilization of dopamine agonists started in 1999, with less than 0.01 DDD/TID, and increased to 1.47 DDD/TID in 2022. Ropinirole was the most used dopamine agonist (0.56 DDD/TID in 2022). Anticholinergic agents represented the most used antiparkinsonian drugs until 2005. Trihexyphenidyl was the main anticholinergic prescribed with a maximum utilization of 0.82 DDD/TID in 2000 followed by a slight decrease until 2022 (0.56 DDD/TID). Amantadine utilization was mainly constant throughout the 25 years, with 0.32 DDD/TID prescribed in 2022. ARIMA analysis showed that the changes in antiparkinsonian drugs consumption were not statistically significant and overall, the trend for antiparkinsonian drug use demonstrates an upward trajectory.ConclusionAntiparkinsonian medication showed an increasing utilization trend in Romania during 1998–2022. Levodopa was the most used antiparkinsonian medicine after 2005, replacing anticholinergic agents. MAO-inhibitors utilization came in second and was followed by dopamine agonists. Observing the trend in antiparkinsonian medication utilization over time is essential for providing insights into their real-world use and uptake in a large population.
Effect of Cd–Zn compound contamination on the physiological response of broad bean and aphids
Authors: Chen Liya , Wan Sijing , Shen Qintian , Zhao Keting , He Yanlan , Xie Yexin , Tao Shiyu , Zheng Shuchang , Zhang Yi , Wang Shigui , Tang Bin , Li Yan 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionThe heavy metal elements cadmium (Cd) and zinc (Zn) often coexist in nature, making the environmental media more prone to compound pollution. However, research on the toxic effect of the Cd–Zn combination is still lacking, and the underlying toxic mechanisms remain unclear.MethodsTherefore, in this experiment, we established four treatment groups with different ratios of Cd–Zn compound stress for the broad bean, Vicia faba L., and aphids, Megoura crassicauda, to explore the growth and physiological adaptation mechanisms under different levels of mixed heavy metal stress.ResultsBy measuring the germination rate, seedling height, and chlorophyll content of broad beans, we found that Cd–Zn-mixed stress has a synergistic inhibitory effect on the growth and development of broad beans. Cd and Zn can be transferred through the food chain, while broad beans can resist complex stress by regulating the content of total soluble sugars and photosynthetic pigments in the body, as well as accumulating proline. In addition, in the first generation of adult aphids, treatment with Cd (12.5 mg/kg) + Zn (100 mg/kg) significantly affected the expression of trehalase (TRE) and trehalose-6-phosphate synthase (TPS) genes and influenced the carbohydrate content and trehalase activity in the aphids.DiscussionThe number of offspring produced by the second-generation aphids was significantly reduced under mixed heavy metal treatment, but it was not caused by changes in the vitellogenin (Vg) content. These related results provide new avenues for further exploration of plant responses to mixed heavy metal stress, pest control, and management of heavy metal pollution.
The Chinese version of Selection, Optimization, and Compensation Questionnaire: psychometric properties among adolescent students
Authors: Zhu Mengjun , Yao Xing’an , Mansor Abu Talib 
Published: February 2025

ObjectiveThis study established the reliability and validity of the Selection, Optimization, and Compensation Questionnaire in a sample of senior secondary school students in China.MethodsThe data for this study were sourced from 1,080 students from multiple senior secondary schools using the SOC Questionnaire and the Learning Engagement Scale. This study conducted Exploratory Factor Analysis and Confirmatory Factor Analysis. The factor structure analysis of the psychometric properties of SOC Questionnaire were examined on reliability, convergent validity, concurrent criterion validity, and incremental validity.ResultsThe EFA results suggested that a three-factor solution was most appropriate for the SOC Questionnaire. The three-factor CFA model of this study calculated correlations different from what was published with an American sample of adolescents by the questionnaire developers. The reliability coefficients (Cronbach’s α, McDonald’s ω), composite reliability (rho_c), and reliability coefficient (rho_a), convergent and discriminant validity were good. Concurrent criterion validity, and incremental validity were demonstrated by the SOC Questionnaire and the LES.ConclusionThe 17-item, 3-factor SOC Questionnaire demonstrated strong reliability and validity, thus offering a new multidimensional of the SOC Questionnaire to evaluate intentional self-regulation among adolescents in schools.
Study and personal resources of university students’ academic resilience and the relationship with positive psychological outcomes
Authors: Bagdžiūnienė Dalia , Žukauskaitė Irena , Bulotaitė Laima , Sargautytė Rūta 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionEmbarking on university-level studies is a period of new challenges for young people as they meet new academic demands, environments, and teaching systems. Academic resilience, defined as students’ capacity to endure challenges while sustaining optimism, positive thinking, and emotional stability, is crucial in enabling individuals to navigate academic difficulties and foster future success. In this context, developing the role of contextual and personal factors in university students’ academic resilience and its role in predicting positive psychological outcomes is crucial. This study, grounded in the Study Demands–Resources framework, sought to examine study-related characteristics and self-efficacy as resources that support students’ academic resilience. Additionally, it aimed to explore the connections between academic resilience and positive psychological outcomes, such as student engagement and well-being.MethodThe convenience study sample included 350 students from Lithuanian universities: 79.14% were female, the mean age was 23.8 years (SD = 5.7). Students were in varying bachelor’s and master’s study programs. Data were collected using a self-administered online survey. Descriptive statistics, correlation, regression analyses, and structural equation modelling were applied for data analysis.Results and conclusionThe study found that students’ academic resilience was positively influenced by the characteristics of their study environment and self-efficacy. Furthermore, academic resilience was positively associated with student engagement and well-being. Our findings highlight the role of academic resilience in mediating the interplay between study-related resources, student engagement, and well-being. This research study features practical implications for enhancing university students’ academic resilience, engagement, and well-being by strengthening both study-related and personal resources.
Postural correlates of pleasant landscapes visual perception
Authors: Akounach Mbarka , Lelard Thierry , Mouras Harold 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionThe interplay between motor skills and emotions in the brain represents a significant and longstanding research question. Recently, posturography has provided new insights into this subject. Understanding the biological processes that influence the appreciation of nature and landscapes is also a crucial concern, prompting various experimental methods and theoretical frameworks. This research aimed to propose, for the first time, the use of posturography to study the different ways postural control is modulated by visual perception of pleasant scenes.MethodsA total of 37 participants (27 females, 10 males; mean age = 24 years ±5 years) were shown images of pleasant and neutral landscapes, while posturographic data were collected. Two viewing conditions were employed: passive vision and active vision, where participants were instructed to envision themselves in the presented scenes.ResultsThe results indicated a differential modulation of the postural response based on valence factors (pleasant vs. neutral) and mental simulation (passive vs. active). Notably, significant differences in approach-avoidance behavior were observed approximately 7 s after the onset of stimulus viewing.DiscussionThe findings are discussed in relation to major theories in environmental psychology, highlighting the central role of emotional and embodiment processes in appreciating pleasant environmental scenes and related motor behaviors.
Systematic analysis and prediction of the burden of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias caused by hyperglycemia
Authors: He Dongying , Liu Manting , Tang Yujin , Tian Xiaona , Zhou Lisi , Chen Yizhen , Liu Xiaoxia 
Published: February 2025

BackgroundAlzheimer’s disease and other dementias (ADOD) pose a significant and escalating global public health challenge, particularly among the aging populations. Emerging evidence has identified high fasting plasma glucose (HFPG) as a major modifiable risk factor for ADOD, linking impaired glucose metabolism to cognitive decline and neurodegeneration. Despite this association, the comprehensive impact of HFPG on the global burden of ADOD has not been fully elucidated. Understanding the extent to which HFPG contributes to ADOD is crucial for developing targeted interventions and optimizing healthcare resource allocation to address this growing concern.MethodsUsing Global Burden of Disease data (GBD 2021), we analyzed the global HFPG-related ADOD burden from 1990 to 2021 using an age-period-cohort framework and predicted trends for 2050. A Shiny platform was developed to visualize the disease burden and trends across 204 countries and regions.ResultsIn 2021, approximately 15% of ADOD deaths and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) were attributed to HFPG, a 271.05% increase from 1990. The incidence rate rose from 47.07 to 66.42, indicating poor control. The mortality rate from HFPG-ADOD increased by 305.81%. The primary burden was among the 80–84 age group. Trends in ASDR and ASMR showed an increase across most SDI regions, except Low SDI. Decomposition analysis and the APC model indicated poor control in high SDI regions due to aging populations over the past 5 years. By 2050, the global prevalence is projected to reach 1,003,018.047 (26124.40377, 12114480.49), with 345,342.5738 (1431.57781, 6022119.213) males and 657,675.4731 (24692.82596, 6092361.28) females. The Shiny platform predicts a yearly increase in ASDR and ASMR for HFPG-ADOD in China, which is consistent with GBD platform trends. The platform is accessible at http://116.196.73.86:3838/GBD/HFPG-ADOD/.ConclusionThe global burden of HFPG-related ADOD has been increasing, even in high SDI regions, over the past 5 years and is expected to continue rising until 2050. Implementing appropriate health policies to mitigate this trend could significantly reduce the substantial burden caused by HFPG-induced ADOD. Promoting the use of the Shiny prediction platform will contribute significantly to global healthy aging.
Needs of older adults in Kazakhstan: analysis and psychometric properties of the localized version of the EASYCare standard 2010 instrument
Authors: Kimatova Kerbez , Yermukhanova Lyudmila , Talarska Dorota , Dworacka Marzena , Sultanova Gulnar , Sarsenbayeva Gulzat , Bazargaliyev Yerlan , Aitmaganbet Perizat , Suwalska Aleksandra , Wieczorowska-Tobis Katarzyna , Philp Ian , Tobis Slawomir 
Published: February 2025

BackgroundStudies about the needs of older individuals in Central Asia are very sparse. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the needs of older adults in Kazakhstan with the EASYCare Standard 2010 (EC) questionnaire.MethodsThe study involved 524 participants aged 65 and older from various regions in Kazakhstan. Data were collected by trained research staff, and the participants’ needs were examined using median split with the three summarizing indexes of the EC system (Independence score, Risk of breakdown in care, and Risk of falls).ResultsSubjects with primary education had approximately double odds of scoring above the median compared to those with higher education in Independence score (p &lt; 0.01) and Risk of breakdown in care (p &lt; 0.01). Individuals with primary education also had 60% higher odds of scoring above the Risk of falls scale threshold, indicating a risk in this category (p &lt; 0.05). For the Risk of falls scores, financial situation was also significant; individuals having not enough to make ends meet had 75% higher odds than the remaining ones (p &lt; 0.01).ConclusionOur analysis highlights the importance of tailored interventions to address the unmet needs of the Kazakh population, particularly among those with lower education and those with financial concerns. The study also underscores the need for sustainable, comprehensive eldercare policies in Kazakhstan that account for the growing older population.
Symptomatic neurosyphilis in HIV-negative patients: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Chen Qiaoer , Wu Weiqi , Wang Lu , Huang Honghong , Wang Lingxing 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionNeurosyphilis does not necessarily involve progressive invasion from interstitial to parenchymal nerve tissue. Few studies have focused on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-negative patients with symptomatic neurosyphilis, and the clinical outcomes and factors influencing the outcomes are unclear. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to compare the characteristics and clinical outcomes of interstitial and parenchymal neurosyphilis following treatment in HIV-negative patients with symptomatic neurosyphilis.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective analysis of the clinical characteristics, laboratory results, neuroimaging findings, treatment regimens, and outcomes at discharge of HIV-negative patients admitted to our hospital with symptomatic neurosyphilis between May 2013 and May 2023.ResultsOf the 142 patients, the mean age was 56.6 ± 11.4 years, with 111 (78.2%) being men. The predominant clinical manifestations included psychological disorders, cognitive decline, and cranial nerve disorders. Overall, 134 (94.4%) patients had elevated cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cell counts, 113 (79.6%) had elevated protein levels, and 22/133 (16.5%) had elevated intracranial pressure. During hospitalization 113 patients (87.6%) were treated with intravenous penicillin and 13 (10.1%) were treated with ceftriaxone. Furthermore, 62 (43.7%) and 80 (56.3%) patients had interstitial and parenchymal types of neurosyphilis, respectively. Patients with the parenchymal type were younger and had higher platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and lower lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR). Overall, 126 (88.7%) patients completed anti-syphilitic treatment prior to discharge, with 111 (88.1%) showing poor outcomes.DiscussionAn elevated CSF protein level and the parenchymal type were associated with poor outcome. This study revealed that clinical manifestations of neurosyphilis vary, and that the majority of patients had elevated CSF cell and protein levels and a normal intracranial pressure. The PLR was higher and the LMR was lower in the parenchymal type than in the interstitial type. Only a small proportion of patients had favorable outcomes. CSF protein level and parenchymal type may be risk factors for poor prognosis.
Facilitators and barriers to reach and enrollment into a medically tailored meals program within a section 1115 Medicaid pilot: clinic staff perspectives
Authors: Folta Sara C. , Burch Jessica , Alcusky Matthew , Ash Arlene S. , Hager Kurt , Terranova Jean , Zhang Fang Fang , Anyanwu Oyedolapo , Li Zhongyu , Mozaffarian Dariush 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionMedically tailored meals (MTMs) are home-delivered, nutritionally tailored meals for individuals living with complex or advanced diet-sensitive medical conditions. In 2020, Massachusetts Medicaid implemented the Flexible Services Program (FSP) through a Section 1115 Demonstration, which funded novel nutrition programs, including MTMs, for high-risk patients through Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs). Little is known from the practitioners’ perspective regarding the facilitators and barriers to reaching and enrolling patients in MTM programs.MethodsWe interviewed 19 staff across four ACOs that had implemented MTM interventions. Interviews were conducted from Feb to Aug 2023 and included staff who participated in patient screening, referral, or enrollment. The interview guide was informed by the Health Equity Implementation Framework. Interviews were recorded and transcribed and coded using NVivo software. We used directed qualitative content analyses. The study team identified and discussed common themes and presented them back to our ACO partners.ResultsStaff described facilitators of and barriers to reach and enrollment related to several domains of the Health Equity Implementation Framework. For program (innovation) factors, facilitators included perceived positive effects on patient health outcomes and a relative advantage over both the status quo and other nutrition assistance programs; outreach by care team members rather than other staff; the eligibility criteria, which were viewed as appropriate and evidence-based; and the simplicity of the program, which aided communication with patients. Patient-related facilitators included patients being more in need of the program due to more severe illness and being more motivated to change dietary behaviors. Patient-related barriers included lacking a working phone or stable housing and concern about meals meeting taste and cultural food preferences. Staff-related barriers included limited time and especially knowledge about the MTM program.DiscussionThis study highlights the perspectives of front-line staff during the implementation of an MTM program in a state-wide 1,115 Demonstration. Staff may require multiple trainings to gain full knowledge about the program and increase self-efficacy in describing it with sensitivity. These new findings elevate voices from front-line healthcare staff in MTM delivery and can help inform strategies for effective, equitable implementation of MTM programs.