bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Estimation of left ventricular functions in patients with subclinical hypothyroidism: a meta-analysis
Authors: Li Binyi , Huang Yong , Li Zheng 
Published: December 2023

ObjectiveTo evaluate left ventricular (LV) function in patients with subclinical hypothyroidism (ScH) compared to healthy individuals and to provide clinical hints for practitioners.MethodsPubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were systematically searched in this meta-analysis. Studies evaluating LV function in ScH patients were included. Standardized mean difference (SMD) and the 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated as effect size. Heterogeneity and risks of bias of included studies were assessed.ResultsA total of 9 studies were identified as eligible. The SMD for fractional shortening (FS, %) was -0.21 (95% CI: -0.60, 0.17; z = -1.08, p = 0.2788). The pooled SMD for systemic vascular resistance (SVR, dynes/sec·cm-5) was -0.41 (95% CI: -1.31, 0.49; z = -0.89, p = 0.3744). The pooled SMD for early diastolic mitral flow velocity/late diastolic mitral flow velocity (E/A) ratio was -0.74 (95% CI: -1.09, -0.39; z = -4.13, p &lt; 0.001). The pooled SMD for ejection fraction (EF, %) was -0.35 (95% CI: –0.59, -0.12; z = -2.95, p = 0.0032).ConclusionScH patients had significantly worse LV function parameters than healthy controls. These changes in LV function may be involved in the management of ScH.
Machine learning identifies ferroptosis-related gene ANXA2 as potential diagnostic biomarkers for NAFLD
Authors: Qin Jingtong , Cao Peng , Ding Xuexuan , Zeng Zeyao , Deng Liyan , Luo Lianxiang 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionNon-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a major cause of chronic liver disease, still lacks effective therapeutic targets today. Ferroptosis, a type of cell death characterized by lipid peroxidation, has been linked to NAFLD in certain preclinical trials, yet the exact molecular mechanism remains unclear. Thus, we analyzed the relationship between ferroptosis genes and NAFLD using high-throughput data.MethodWe utilized a total of 282 samples from five datasets, including two mouse ones, one human one, one single nucleus dataset and one single cell dataset from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), as the data basis of our study. To filter robust treatment targets, we employed four machine learning methods (LASSO, SVM, RF and Boruta). In addition, we used an unsupervised consensus clustering algorithm to establish a typing scheme for NAFLD based on the expression of ferroptosis related genes (FRGs). Our study is also the first to investigate the dynamics of FRGs throughout the disease process by time series analysis. Finally, we validated the relationship between core gene and ferroptosis by in vitro experiments on HepG2 cells.ResultsWe discovered ANXA2 as a central focus in NAFLD and indicated its potential to boost ferroptosis in HepG2 cells. Additionally, based on the results obtained from time series analysis, ANXA2 was observed to significantly define the disease course of NAFLD. Our results demonstrate that implementing a ferroptosis-based staging method may hold promise for the diagnosis and treatment of NAFLD.ConclusionOur findings suggest that ANXA2 may be a useful biomarker for the diagnosis and characterization of NAFLD.
Managing cabin crew fatigue during ultra-long range operations
Authors: van den Berg M. J. , Zaslona J. L. , Muller D. P. , Wu L. , Hughes M. , Johnston B. , Dyer C. , Drane M. , Signal T. L. 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionUltra-long range (ULR) flights have the potential to increase fatigue-related risk for cabin crew, if the extended flight times are associated with extended wakefulness, sleep loss and higher levels of crew fatigue. ULR flights may also require longer opportunities for recovery sleep. This study evaluates the utilization of fatigue risk mitigations for cabin crew operating the Auckland – Chicago ULR route with a two-day layover.Methods65 cabin crew (45 women; aged 20–59 years) wore an actigraph and completed a sleep/duty diary for 3 local nights prior to, throughout, and for 3 local nights after a ULR trip. Crewmembers rated their fatigue (Samn-Perelli Crew Status Check), sleepiness (Karolinska Sleepiness Scale), and workload (OW; NASA-TLX) at key times during each flight. Jet lag was rated each day at home and during layover.ResultsFatigue and sleepiness were highest at top-of-descent and after landing and were higher on the inbound flight than on the outbound flight. For every hour of additional sleep in-flight, top-of-descent fatigue ratings decreased by 0.24 points and top-of-descent sleepiness ratings decreased by 0.38, whereas top-of-descent fatigue and sleepiness ratings increased by 0.24 points with every 10-point increase in OW ratings. Crew slept more in the 24-hours prior to the outbound (M = 8.5 h) and inbound flights (M = 9.1 h) compared to pre-trip baseline days (M = 8.2 h). Post-trip, crew slept more during the first day (M = 9.9 h) compared to baseline, with 95% taking a daytime nap. Jet lag ratings decreased daily on return home but were still higher on the fourth day than on the day of the outbound flight.DiscussionCabin crew prepare for ULR flights by obtaining more sleep prior to departure. However, large individual differences in sleep and declining jet lag ratings across pre-trip days suggest that some crewmembers may still be recovering from a previous trip. Further refinement of in-flight sleep strategies and workload mitigations could be considered for managing fatigue risk at top-of-descent. Findings also highlight the importance of a protected period of post-trip rest to facilitate cabin crews' recovery from the effects of sleep restriction and circadian disruption associated with this ULR trip.
Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio as a predictor of poor outcomes of Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia
Authors: Li Dan , Gu Haiyan , Chen Lei , Wu Ruxi , Jiang Yazhou , Huang Xia , Zhao Deyu , Liu Feng 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionMycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP) may lead to various significant outcomes, such as necrotizing pneumonia(NP) and refractory MPP (RMPP). We investigated the potential of the peripheral blood neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) to predict outcomes in patients with MPP.Methods and materialsThis was a prospective study of patients with MPP who were admitted to our hospital from 2019 to 2021. Demographic and clinical data were collected from patient records and associated with the development of NP and RMPP and other outcome measures.ResultsOf the 1,401 patients with MPP included in the study, 30 (2.1%) developed NP. The NLR was an independent predictor of NP (odds ratio 1.153, 95% confidence interval 1.022–1.300, P=0.021). The probability of NP was greater in patients with a high NLR (≥1.9) than in those with a low NLR (&lt;1.9) (P&lt;0.001). The NLR was also an independent predictor of RMPP (odds ratio 1.246, 95% confidence interval 1.102–1.408, P&lt;0.005). Patients with a high NLR were more likely to develop NP and RMPP and require intensive care, and had longer total fever duration, longer hospital stays, and higher hospitalization expenses than those with a low NLR (all P&lt;0.005).DiscussionThe NLR can serve as a predictor of poor prognosis in patients with MPP. It can predict the occurrence of NP, RMPP, and other poor outcomes. The use of this indicator would allow the simple and rapid prediction of prognosis in the early stages of MPP, enabling the implementation of appropriate treatment strategies.
Diagnostic value of kappa free light chain index in patients with primary progressive multiple sclerosis – a multicentre study
Authors: Hegen Harald , Berek Klaus , Cavalla Paola , Christiansen Mikael , Emeršič Andreja , Di Filippo Massimiliano , Gaetani Lorenzo , Hassler Michaela , Leurs Cyra , Milosavljevic Dejan , van Pesch Vincent , Petersen Thor , Presslauer Stefan , Rosenstein Igal , Rot Uroš , Schnabl Christine , Teunissen Charlotte , Vecchio Domizia , Vercellino Marco , Deisenhammer Florian 
Published: December 2023

BackgroundKappa free light chains (κ-FLC) in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) are an emerging biomarker in multiple sclerosis (MS).ObjectiveTo investigate whether κ-FLC index has similar diagnostic value in patients with primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) compared to oligoclonal bands (OCB).MethodsPatients with PPMS were recruited through 11 MS centres across 7 countries. κ-FLC were measured by immunonephelometry/-turbidimetry. OCB were determined by isoelectric focusing and immunofixation.ResultsA total of 174 patients (mean age of 52±11 years, 51% males) were included. κ-FLC index using a cut-off of 6.1 was positive in 161 (93%) and OCB in 153 (88%) patients.Conclusionκ-FLC index shows similar diagnostic sensitivity than OCB in PPMS.
Dietary Qi-Weng-Huangbo powder enhances growth performance, diarrhoea and immune function of weaned piglets by modulating gut health and microbial profiles
Authors: Xiao Chuanpi , Li Kai , Teng Chunran , Wei Zeou , Li Jiaheng , Zhang Shunfeng , Liu Lei , Lv Huiyuan , Zhong Ruqing 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionThe evolution of nutritional strategies to improve the gut health and microbiota profiles of early-weaned piglets is essential to reduce diarrhoea caused by weaning stress. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the effects of dietary supplementation of Qi-Weng-Huangbo powder, a traditional herbal medicine consisting of a mixture of Pulsatilla chinensis, Chinese Schneid and Astragalus extracts (PCE), on the growth performance, diarrhoea rate, immune function and intestinal health of weaned piglets.Methods162 piglets were randomly assigned to the CON group (no PCE added), the PCEL group (300 mg/kg PCE) and the PCEH group (500 mg/kg PCE) at the end of the third week post farrowing. There were 9 replicates of each group with 6 pigs per replicate. The experiment lasted for 28 days and sampling was performed on the final day.ResultsThe results showed that the PCE diet increased the average daily gain (ADG) and final body weight (BW) compared to the CON group. Both supplemented doses of PCE reduced the faecal scores of piglets, and the diarrhoea rate in the PCEL group was significantly lower than that in the CON group. The application of PCE diets promoted the development of the spleen in piglets and up-regulated serum immunoglobulin concentrations to enhance immune function, which was also reflected in the down-regulated gene expression of the colonic TLR/MyD88/NF-κB pathway. Supplementation with PCE improved intestinal morphology, and all doses of PCE significantly increased villus height (VH) in the ileum, whereas colonic crypt depth (CD) was significantly lower in the PCEH group than in the CON group. The PCEH diet significantly increased the levels of valeric and isovaleric acid in the colon content. Dietary PCEH also improved the colonic microbial community profile, reflected by a significant increase in Shannon’s index compared with CON group. The abundance of Veillonellaceae and Rhodospirillales was significantly increased in the PCEH group at the family level.DiscussionIn conclusion, dietary PCE reduced diarrhoea rates, improved growth performance and enhanced immune function in weaned piglets. These improvements were potentially supported by altered ileum and colonic morphology, elevated colonic VFA levels, and modulation of colonic microbial profiles.
A novel assay based on DNA melting temperature for multiplexed identification of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A/B viruses
Authors: Gao Peng , Fan Yanyan , Kong Xiaomu , Zhang Rui , Chen Lida , Jiang Yongwei , Liu Yi , Zhao Meimei , Deng Guoxiong , Cao Yongtong , Ma Liang 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionThe severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) and influenza viruses can cause respiratory illnesses with similar clinical symptoms, making their differential diagnoses challenging. Additionally, in critically ill SARS-CoV-2–infected patients, co-infections with other respiratory pathogens can lead to severe cytokine storm and serious complications. Therefore, a method for simultaneous detection of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A and B viruses will be clinically beneficial.MethodsWe designed an assay to detect five gene targets simultaneously via asymmetric PCR-mediated melting curve analysis in a single tube. We used specific probes that hybridize to corresponding single-stranded amplicons at low temperature and dissociate at high temperature, creating different detection peaks representing the targets. The entire reaction was conducted in a closed tube, which minimizes the risk of contamination. The limit of detection, specificity, precision, and accuracy were determined.ResultsThe assay exhibited a limit of detection of &lt;20 copies/μL for SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A and &lt;30 copies/μL for influenza B, with high reliability as demonstrated by a coefficient of variation for melting temperature of &lt;1.16% across three virus concentrations. The performance of our developed assay and the pre-determined assay showed excellent agreement for clinical samples, with kappa coefficients ranging from 0.98 (for influenza A) to 1.00 (for SARS-CoV-2 and influenza B). No false-positive, and no cross-reactivity was observed with six common non-influenza respiratory viruses.ConclusionThe newly developed assay offers a straightforward, cost-effective and nucleic acid contamination-free approach for simultaneous detection of the SARS-CoV-2, influenza A, and influenza B viruses. The method offers high analytical sensitivity, reliability, specificity, and accuracy. Its use will streamline testing for co-infections, increase testing throughput, and improve laboratory efficacy.
The fermentation optimization for alkaline protease production by Bacillus subtilis BS-QR-052
Authors: Sun Biao , Zou Kai , Zhao Yingqing , Tang Yinfang , Zhang Fuming , Chen Weijing , Tang Xiaoting , Chang Chenran , Zheng Yan 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionProteases exhibit a wide range of applications, and among them, alkaline proteases have become a prominent area of research due to their stability in highly alkaline environments. To optimize the production yield and activity of alkaline proteases, researchers are continuously exploring different fermentation conditions and culture medium components.MethodsIn this paper, the fermentation conditions of the alkaline protease (EC 3.4.21.14) production by Bacillus subtilis BS-QR-052 were optimized, and the effect of different nutrition and fermentation conditions was investigated. Based on the single-variable experiments, the Plackett–Burman design was used to explore the significant factors, and then the optimized fermentation conditions, as well as the interaction between these factors, were evaluated by response surface methodology through the Box–Behnken design.Results and discussionThe results showed that 1.03% corn syrup powder, 0.05% MgSO4, 8.02% inoculation volume, 1:1.22 vvm airflow rate, as well as 0.5% corn starch, 0.05% MnSO4, 180 rpm agitation speed, 36°C fermentation temperature, 8.0 initial pH and 96 h incubation time were predicted to be the optimal fermentation conditions. The alkaline protease enzyme activity was estimated to be approximately 1787.91 U/mL, whereas subsequent experimental validation confirmed it reached 1780.03 U/mL, while that of 500 L scale-up fermentation reached 1798.33 U/mL. This study optimized the fermentation conditions for alkaline protease production by B. subtilis through systematic experimental design and data analysis, and the activity of the alkaline protease increased to 300.72% of its original level. The established model for predicting alkaline protease activity was validated, achieving significantly higher levels of enzymatic activity. The findings provide valuable references for further enhancing the yield and activity of alkaline protease, thereby holding substantial practical significance and economic benefits for industrial applications.
Assessing causal associations between neurodegenerative diseases and neurological tumors with biological aging: a bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zhang Zhiyun , Liu Ningfang , Pan Xuyang , Zhang Chuyi , Yang Yifan , Li Xinyun , Shao Ying 
Published: December 2023

BackgroundAging is a significant risk factor for many neurodegenerative diseases and neurological tumors. Previous studies indicate that the frailty index, facial aging, telomere length (TL), and epigenetic aging clock acceleration are commonly used biological aging proxy indicators. This study aims to comprehensively explore potential relationships between biological aging and neurodegenerative diseases and neurological tumors by integrating various biological aging proxy indicators, employing Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis.MethodsTwo-sample bidirectional MR analyses were conducted using genome-wide association study (GWAS) data. Summary statistics for various neurodegenerative diseases and neurological tumors, along with biological aging proxy indicators, were obtained from extensive meta-analyses of GWAS. Genetic single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with the exposures were used as instrumental variables, assessing causal relationships between three neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), two benign neurological tumors (vestibular schwannoma and meningioma), one malignant neurological tumor (glioma), and four biological aging indicators (frailty index, facial aging, TL, and epigenetic aging clock acceleration). Sensitivity analyses were also performed.ResultsOur analysis revealed that genetically predicted longer TL reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s disease but increases the risk of vestibular schwannoma and glioma (All Glioma, GBM, non-GBM). In addition, there is a suggestive causal relationship between some diseases (PD and GBM) and DNA methylation GrimAge acceleration. Causal relationships between biological aging proxy indicators and other neurodegenerative diseases and neurological tumors were not observed.ConclusionBuilding upon prior investigations into the causal relationships between telomeres and neurodegenerative diseases and neurological tumors, our study validates these findings using larger GWAS data and demonstrates, for the first time, that Parkinson’s disease and GBM may promote epigenetic age acceleration. Our research provides new insights and evidence into the causal relationships between biological aging and the risk of neurodegenerative diseases and neurological tumors.
Burden of liver cancer due to hepatitis C from 1990 to 2019 at the global, regional, and national levels
Authors: Wei Jie , Ouyang Guoqing , Huang Guozhen , Wang Yong , Li Shuangjiang , Liu Jiaping , Zhang Yanhong , Yuan Guandou , He Songqing 
Published: December 2023

BackgroundLiver cancer due to hepatitis C (LCDHC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, and the burden of LCDHC is increasing. We aimed to report the burden of LCDHC at the global, regional, and national levels in 204 countries from 1990 to 2019, stratified by etiology, sex, age, and Sociodemographic Index.MethodsData on LCDHC were available from the Global Burden of Disease, Injuries, and Risk Factors (GBD) study 2019. Numbers and age-standardized mortality, incidence, and disability-adjusted life year (DALY) rates per 100,000 population were estimated through a systematic analysis of modeled data from the GBD 2019 study. The trends in the LCDHC burden were assessed using the annual percentage change.ResultsGlobally, in 2019, there were 152,225 new cases, 141,810 deaths, and 2,878,024 DALYs due to LCDHC. From 1990 to 2019, the number of incidences, mortality, and DALY cases increased by 80.68%, 67.50%, and 37.20%, respectively. However, the age-standardized incidence, mortality, and DALY rate had a decreasing trend during this period. In 2019, the highest age-standardized incidence rates (ASIRs) of LCDHC were found in high-income Asia Pacific, North Africa and the Middle East, and Central Asia. At the regional level, Mongolia, Egypt, and Japan had the three highest ASIRs in 2019. The incidence rates of LCDHC were higher in men and increased with age, with a peak incidence in the 95+ age group for women and the 85–89 age group for men in 2019. A nonlinear association was found between the age-standardized rates of LCDHC and sociodemographic index values at the regional and national levels.ConclusionsAlthough the age-standardized rates of LCDHC have decreased, the absolute numbers of incident cases, deaths, and DALYs have increased, indicating that LCDHC remains a significant global burden. In addition, the burden of LCDHC varies geographically. Male and older adult/s individuals have a higher burden of LCDHC. Our findings provide insight into the global burden trend of LCDHC. Policymakers should establish appropriate methods to achieve the HCV elimination target by 2030 and reducing the burden of LCDHC.
Light blocking film in a glasshouse impacts Capsicum annuum L. yield differentially across planting season
Authors: Maier Chelsea R. , Chavan Sachin G. , Klause Norbert , Liang Weiguang , Cazzonelli Christopher I. , Ghannoum Oula , Chen Zhong-Hua , Tissue David T. 
Published: December 2023

High energy costs are a barrier to producing high-quality produce at protected cropping facilities. A potential solution to mitigate high energy costs is film technology, which blocks heat-producing radiation; however, the alteration of the light environment by these films may impact crop yield and quality. Previous studies have assessed the impact of ULR 80 [i.e., light-blocking film (LBF)] on crop yield and photosynthetically active radiation (PAR); however, an assessment of the spectral environment over different seasons is important to understand potential crop impacts through different developmental phases. In this study, two varieties (red and orange) of Capsicum annuum were grown across two crop cycles: one cycle with primary crop growth in the autumn (i.e., autumn experiment [AE]) and the other with primary crop growth in the summer (i.e., summer experiment [SE]). LBF reduced PAR (roof level: 26%–30%, plant canopy level: 8%–25%) and net radiation (36%–66%). LBF also reduced total diffuse PAR (AE: 8%, SE: 15%), but the diffuse fraction of PAR increased by 7% and 9% for AE and SE, respectively, potentially resulting in differential light penetration throughout the canopy across treatments. LBF reduced near-infrared radiation (700 nm–2,500 nm), including far-red (700 nm–780 nm) at mid- and lower-canopy levels. LBF significantly altered light quantity and quality, which determined the amount of time that the crop grew under light-limited (&lt;12 mol m−2 d−1) versus sufficient light conditions. In AE, crops were established and grown under light-limited conditions for 57% of the growing season, whereas in SE, crops were established and grown under sufficient light conditions for 66% of the growing season. Overall, LBF significantly reduced the yield in SE for both varieties (red: 29%; orange: 16%), but not in AE. The light changes in different seasons in response to LBF suggest that planting time is crucial for maximizing fruit yield when grown under a film that reduces light quantity. LBF may be unsuitable for year-round production of capsicum, and additional development of LBF is required for the film to be beneficial for saving energy during production and sustaining good crop yields in protected cropping.