bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The immunological landscape of CCL26High invasive oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Liu Lingyun , Guan Shuo , Xue Yizhuo , He Yijia , Ding Liang , Fu Yong , Chen Sheng , Wang Zhiyong , Wang Yi 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundOur previous study demonstrated that CCL26 secreted by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) promoted the invasive phenotype of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), however, more comprehensive clinical expression patterns of CCL26 and its role in immunotherapy remains ambiguous.MethodsCCL26 levels in different cancer and normal tissues were analyzed and validated in 67 OSCC patients through immunohistochemical staining (IHC). The clinical spatial distribution pattern of CCL26 in tumor microenvironment was determined, and its clinical outcomes were investigated. We also determined the invasive phenotype of tumor cells with distinct CCL26 level and explored its immune checkpoint and immunocytes relevance by differentially expressed gene (DEG) analysis, GSEA, and GO analysis. We collected peripheral blood from 28 OSCC patients to assess the percentage and absolute number of lymphocytes by flow cytometry.ResultsCCL26 was upregulated in HNSC and preferentially high-expressed on CAFs and tumor cells in OSCC patients, which exhibits a trend toward decreased overall survival. CCL26high OSCC had a characteristic of tumor invasive phenotype with upregulated CLDN8/20 and reduced keratin KRT36, which was significantly associated with EMT markers (CDH1, CDH2, VIM, SNAI2). In addition, CCL26high OSCC was found to be associated with immunoglobulin mediated immune response, B cell mediated immunity et al. Indeed, immune checkpoint molecules (PD-L1, PD-L2, et al.) also decreased in CCL26high OSCC. However, CCL26 did not affect T/B/NK lymphocytes in peripheral blood of OSCC patients.ConclusionCCL26 could regulate Immune balance and promote invasiveness of OSCC, which gave a new insight into a potential immunotherapy strategy.
Lyophilized human platelet lysate: manufacturing, quality control, and application
Authors: Wendland Kerstin , Koblin Lea , Stobbe Dirk , Dahms Anna , Singer Debora , Bekeschus Sander , Wesche Jan , Schoon Janosch , Aurich Konstanze 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundA significant number of platelet concentrates (PCs) is discarded daily in blood banks due to limited shelf life. Human platelet lysate (HPL), derived from expired PCs, has gained attention as an ethical and sustainable cell culture media supplement in biomedical research and cell therapy production. However, HPL is subject to decisive disadvantages such as batch differences and lack of storage stability. To overcome these limitations and to enhance the applicability of HPL, we developed an HPL manufacturing protocol including a lyophilization process. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of HPL lyophilization on parameters of quality control, including growth factor concentrations and the culture of human mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSCs).MethodsWe performed a paired comparison of six batches of HPL and lyophilized HPL (L-HPL) regarding the quality parameters pH, total protein, osmolality, sodium, potassium and chloride concentration. Concentrations of 11 growth factors and cytokines were compared between HPL and L-HPL. Additionally, we determined cell yield, proliferation capacity, viability and trilineage differentiation potential of hMSCs following expansion in HPL- and L-HPL-supplemented cell culture media.ResultsQuantification of the quality parameters revealed non-altered pH, osmolality and potassium concentrations and slightly lower total protein, sodium and chloride concentrations of L-HPL compared to HPL. Growth factor and cytokine concentrations did not differ between HPL and L-HPL. Cell yield, division cycles and viability of hMSCs cultured in either HPL- or L-HPL-containing media were comparable. Cells differentiated in medium containing L-HPL showed a slightly higher capacity for osteogenic differentiation, while adipogenic differentiation and chondrogenic differentiation potentials remained unchanged.ConclusionWe successfully developed a method to produce well-applicable L-HPL. The comparison of L-HPL with HPL did not reveal any relevant differences regarding quality control parameters of routine testing, growth factor concentrations and hMSC functionality, demonstrating the suitability of L-HPL as a cell culture supplement. These results emphasize the potential of L-HPL as a sustainable and ethical alternative to animal-derived serum products in biomedical research and drug development.
Genome drafting of nosocomial infection CRE Klebsiella pneumoniae confirming resistance to colistin and eravacycline, carrying blaNDM-1, mcr-1, and blaKPC-2, in neonatology from November to December 2023
Authors: Zhou Xinlong , Wagh Kailash , Lv Guizhen , Sharma Devender , Lei Wei 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundCarbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) is a critical pathogen in healthcare settings, associated with high mortality due to its extensive antibiotic resistance. In this study, we report an outbreak of CRKP in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) within a 200-bed tertiary hospital. The main goal of this study was to characterize the phenotypic and genomic profiles of the CRKP isolates involved in the outbreak and to gain insights into their resistance mechanisms and transmission dynamics within the NICU.MethodsThe study was conducted between November and December 2023 in a 5-bed NICU. Monthly surveillance cultures were performed to monitor colonization and infection with multidrug-resistant organisms. CRKP isolates were obtained from blood and nasal swabs of affected neonates. Identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing were initially conducted using the Vitek®2 system with an N-395 card and further confirmed by 16S rRNA sequencing. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) profiling were performed to identify resistance genes and virulence factors. For genetic analysis, both Illumina short-read and Nanopore long-read sequencing were used, followed by hybrid assembly for enhanced genome resolution. Plasmid and resistance gene profiles were determined using AMRFinder and PlasmidFinder databases.ResultsA total of three CRKP isolates (designated Kp1, Kp2, and Kp3) were identified. Kp1 and Kp2 belonged to sequence type (ST) ST23 and were genetically near-identical, differing by a single allele, while Kp3 was of a distinct sequence type, ST2096, with 245 allelic differences from Kp1 and Kp2. All isolates were resistant to colistin and carried resistance genes, including mcr-1 and blaNDM-1,blaKPC2 confirming carbapenem resistance. Efflux pump genes and aminoglycoside resistance genes were also detected, providing a multifaceted defence against antibiotics. Plasmid analysis identified several incompatibility groups (IncFI, IncHI, IncFIB, IncX), indicating the potential for horizontal gene transfer of resistance determinants.ConclusionThis study highlights the complexity of CRKP outbreaks in neonatal care, with isolates exhibiting resistance mechanisms that complicate treatment. The plasmid profiles suggest these strains are reservoirs for multidrug-resistant genes, emphasizing the need for strict infection control and ongoing genomic surveillance. For neonatal care, these resistance challenges increase the risk of treatment failures and mortality, underscoring the importance of enhanced infection prevention and novel therapeutic strategies.
Exploring the association between tissue sodium content, heart failure subtypes, and symptom burden: insights from magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Hashemi Djawid , Weiß Karl Jakob , Doeblin Patrick , Blum Moritz , Tanacli Radu , Camdzic Hana , Düngen Hans-Dirk , Edelmann Frank , Kuehne Titus , Kelm Marcus , Kelle Sebastian 
Published: January 2025

AimsHeart failure (HF) is a complex clinical syndrome with high morbidity and mortality, influenced significantly by sodium balance. Recently, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has emerged as a non-invasive method to evaluate tissue sodium load in HF patients. This proof-of-principle study investigates the association between tissue sodium content, assessed by MRI, and HF-related baseline parameters in an outpatient cohort of patients with chronic heart failure, including those with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFmrEF), and preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).Methods and resultsThis prospective study included 29 HF patients (10 HFpEF, 12 HFmrEF, and 7 HFrEF) recruited from two centers in Berlin, Germany. Patients underwent MRI to assess tissue sodium content in the lower extremity. Tissue sodium content was analyzed in relation to baseline HF parameters, including renal function, natriuretic peptide levels, clinical signs of congestion, diuretic use, and New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class. No significant differences in tissue sodium content were observed between the three HF entities. Sodium values did not differ significantly with clinical signs of congestion or diuretic use. No significant correlations were found between tissue sodium content and renal function (eGFR) or natriuretic peptide levels (NT-proBNP) in any HF group overall. However, explorative analyses showed a positive correlation between free (r = 0.79, p = 0.036) and total (r = 0.79, p = 0.036) tissue sodium content in the skin and NT-proBNP levels in HFrEF patients, but not in HFmrEF and HFpEF. Similarly, there was a correlation between kidney function and both free (r = −0.64, p = 0.025) and total (r = −0.61, p = 0.035) skin sodium in patients with edema and no prior use of loop diuretics, but no correlation for kidney function and both free and total skin sodium in symptomatic patients with established diuretic therapy or asymptomatic patients with no diuretic therapy.ConclusionOur findings provide exploratory insights into the potential diagnostic value of tissue sodium content in HF, particularly in HFrEF patients. With findings showing an association of tissue sodium content with NT-proBNP levels in HFrEF patients and with kidney function in edema patients without prior loop diuretic use, further research is needed to understand the role of tissue sodium content in HF pathophysiology and its potential diagnostic and prognostic implications.
Trial registrationGerman Clinical Trials Register (DRKS), registration number (DRKS00015615).
Attitudes toward artificial intelligence and robots in healthcare in the general population: a qualitative study
Authors: Smoła Paulina , Młoźniak Iwona , Wojcieszko Monika , Zwierczyk Urszula , Kobryn Mateusz , Rzepecka Elżbieta , Duplaga Mariusz 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundThe growth of the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotic solutions in healthcare is accompanied by high expectations for improved efficiency and quality of services. However, the use of such technologies can be a source of anxiety for patients whose expectations and experiences with such technology differ from medical staff's. This study assessed attitudes toward AI and robots in delivering health services and performing various tasks in medicine and related fields in Polish society.Methods50 semistructured in-depth interviews were conducted with participants of diversified socio-demographic profiles. The interviewees were initially recruited for the interviews in a convenience sample; then, the process was continued using the snowballing technique. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed using the MAXQDA Analytics Pro 2022 program (release 22.7.0). An interpretative approach to qualitative content analysis was applied to the responses to the research questions.ResultsThe analysis of interviews yielded three main themes: positive and negative perceptions of the use of AI and robots in healthcare and ontological concerns about AI, which went beyond objections about the usefulness of the technology. Positive attitudes toward AI and robots were associated with overall higher trust in technology, the need to adequately respond to demographic challenges, and the conviction that AI and robots can lower the workload of medical personnel. Negative attitudes originated from convictions regarding unreliability and the lack of proper technological and political control over AI; an equally important topic was the inability of artificial entities to feel and express emotions. The third theme was that the potential interaction with machines equipped with human-like traits was a source of insecurity.ConclusionsThe study showed that patients' attitudes toward AI and robots in healthcare vary according to their trust in technology, their recognition of urgent problems in healthcare (staff workload, time of diagnosis), and their beliefs regarding the reliability and functioning of new technologies. Emotional concerns about contact with artificial entities looking or performing like humans are also important to respondents' attitudes.
Acupuncture mediates the “gut–testis axis” to improve asthenozoospermia
Authors: Hao Jianheng , Xu Huichao , Chang Boya , Ren Jia , Wang Haijun , Ji Laixi 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundAsthenozoospermia is a common cause of male infertility. Studies have shown that sperm quality and motility are affected by the gut–testis axis that can regulate testicular metabolism and function through the gut microbiota and its metabolites. Acupuncture is an important modality of complementary and alternative medicine. It can improve sperm motility, but it remains unclear whether acupuncture can enhance sperm vitality by influencing the gut–testis axis.MethodsIn this study, sperm quality, testicular pathology, and serum hormone levels were assessed using a cyclophosphamide-induced mouse model. Real-time PCR, a western blot analysis, and immunofluorescence techniques were used to assess the effects of acupuncture on the gut barrier and blood–testis barrier functions. In addition, gut microbiome and metabolomics were used to study the impact of acupuncture on the gut microbiota structure, serum, and testicular metabolites in asthenozoospermic mice. Further validation was obtained by performing a fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT).ResultsAcupuncture improved the sperm quality; ameliorated testicular pathology; increased serum testosterone (T), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels; and repaired gut and blood–testis barrier damage in asthenozoospermic mice. The abundances of Bacteroidota, Firmicutes, Faecalibaculum, and Dubosiella were associated with sperm motility, as shown by a gut microbiome analysis. Serum metabolomics revealed that differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs), such as cytosine and N-oleyl-leucine, were closely related to sperm motility. Testicular metabolomics analysis revealed DEMs, such as 5-fluorouridine and 1-acetylimidazole, were also associated with sperm motility. Furthermore, reproductive function improvements in asthenozoospermic mice through acupuncture were achieved via an FMT.ConclusionAcupuncture may alleviate asthenozoospermia symptoms by modulating the gut–testis axis and repairing the gut–testis barrier.
Quantifying the human wellbeing of the national wetland park: gross ecosystem product accounting of Shandong Mata Lake National Wetland Park
Authors: Liu Jian , Xu Meng , Wang Ailing , Sun Tianxu , Zhang Chuntao , Chen Xue , Zhang Peng 
Published: January 2025

National wetland parks, characterized by robust ecological functions, distinctive natural landscapes, and abundant cultural resources significantly enhance human wellbeing, serve as crucial providers of ecosystem products, and exert substantial influence on local socioeconomic development and ecological conservation. There is an urgent need to carry out the Gross Ecosystem Product (GEP) accounting and monetize the value of ecosystem products. Taking the Shandong Mata Lake National Wetland Park (SMTNWP) in China as the example, and considering the characteristics of wetland parks, this research constructed the GEP accounting index system comprising 11 secondary subjects from the perspectives of regulation and socio-cultural functions. Taking the year 2021 as the research period, the monetary value was assessed based on biophysical value accounting, and the GEP level was determined. The results showed that the GEP of SMTNWP in 2021 is CNY 74.8317 million, with a unit area GEP of 73,200 CNY/hm2. Regulating ecosystem products constitute the core component of GEP, facilitating the sustainable development of wetland conservation and restoration, as well as eco-cultural tourism. Moving forward, efforts in wetland protection, restoration and maintenance should be sustained, and the platforms for promotion, education and scientific research should be proactively established. The research results can offer support and references for the establishment of unified accounting subjects and systems for similar ecosystems and national wetland parks, and translate the human wellbeing of national wetland parks into visual monetization, providing theoretical basis for the government to realize the value of ecosystem products, and further promoting the conversion of ecological value into economic benefits.
Assessing and optimizing the potential for climate change mitigation and carbon sequestration in urban residential green spaces: energizing sustainable cities
Authors: Liu Hancheng , Zhang Jialong , Wang Zijun 
Published: January 2025

IntroductionUrban green spaces play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by sequestering atmospheric carbon dioxide. This study aimed to evaluate the carbon sequestration potential of common plant species in urban residential areas and provide recommendations for optimizing green space design and management.MethodsThe research was conducted in four residential areas of Nanjing, China, where key growth parameters of 20 plant species, including evergreen trees, deciduous trees, evergreen shrubs, and deciduous shrubs, were measured. The assimilation method was employed to calculate carbon sequestration per unit canopy area and for entire plants.ResultsThe results showed that the carbon sequestration capacities of different plant species and types exhibited significant differences, with p-values less than 0.05. In terms of daily carbon sequestration per unit canopy projection area, the ranking was as follows: evergreen trees &gt; evergreen shrubs &gt; deciduous trees &gt; deciduous shrubs. For total plant carbon sequestration, the ranking was: evergreen trees &gt; deciduous trees &gt; evergreen shrubs &gt; deciduous shrubs. Evergreen trees performed excellently in both carbon sequestration metrics, with the average daily carbon sequestration per unit canopy projection area and for the entire plant being 18.0024 g/(m2·d) and 462.28 g/d, respectively. The study also observed seasonal variations, with carbon sequestration rates being higher in autumn and summer compared to spring and winter. During the summer, the average daily carbon sequestration per unit canopy projection area and for the entire plant were 11.975 g/(m2·d) and 161.744 g/d, respectively, while in autumn, these values were 13.886 g/(m2·d) and 98.458 g/d. Seasonal variations were also observed, with autumn and summer exhibiting higher carbon sequestration rates compared to spring and winter. Additionally, CO2 concentrations were monitored across the four residential areas, providing insights into the spatial and temporal dynamics of carbon sequestration.DiscussionBased on the findings, optimization strategies were proposed, such as prioritizing the selection and integration of high-performing evergreen tree species in urban green space design and incorporating diverse plant types to enhance year-round carbon sequestration. This study contributes to the development of sustainable urban planning and landscape management practices, promoting the role of green spaces in mitigating climate change and enhancing urban resilience.
Utilization of partograph and associated factors among obstetric caregivers in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ayele Mulat , Lake Eyob Shitie , Yilak Gizachew , Kumie Getinet , Abate Biruk Beletew , Zemariam Alemu Birara , Tilahun Befkad Derese 
Published: January 2025

IntroductionEffective use of the partograph is crucial in identifying abnormal labor (prolonged and obstructed labor) and taking appropriate actions. However, in Ethiopia, the prevalence of obstructed labor is much higher at 11.8% and contributes to 14.4% of the total maternal deaths due to underutilization of the partograph by obstetric caregivers. Although a previous systematic review and meta-analysis (SRMA) had been conducted, they were not representative on a national level as they included a limited number of studies and did not evaluate the current prevalence of partograph utilization beyond July 2019. Since then, there have been inconsistent studies assessing the proportion of partograph utilization and its associated factors. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of partograph utilization and its associated factors in Ethiopia.MethodComprehensive literature searches were conducted in PubMed, Google Scholar, and HINARI from 1 September 2013 to 23 October 2023. A random-effects model was used to estimate pooled prevalence and adjusted odds ratio. Stata (version 11.0) was used to analyze the data. Cochrane I2 statistics were computed to assess heterogeneity among studies. A subgroup analysis was done based on the study region to minimize underlying heterogeneity. Funnel plot and Eggers test were conducted to assess publication bias.ResultOverall, 661 articles were retrieved, and finally, 23 studies were included in this systematic review, including 7,649 participants. The pooled prevalence of partograph utilization was 54.92% (95% CI: 43.38–66.45). The subgroup analysis showed that partograph utilization was highest in the Dire Dawa region and lowest in the Amhara region. Factors such as partograph training [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 3.63, 95% CI: 2.57–5.25], good knowledge about partograph (AOR = 2.63, 95% CI: 1.62–4.26), a favorable attitude toward partograph (AOR = 1.95, 95% CI: 1.35–2.82), partograph availability (AOR = 0.89, 95% CI: 2.24–6.61), and being in the midwifery profession (AOR = 0.09, 95% CI: 1.78–5.25) were significantly associated with partograph utilization.ConclusionThe pooled prevalence of partograph utilization in Ethiopia was low. Partograph training, good knowledge about partograph, favorable attitude toward partograph, partograph availability in the health facility, and being in the midwifery profession were significantly associated with partograph utilization.Systematic Review Registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier (CRD42023475818).