bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Study on the effects of Massa Medicata Fermentata with different formulations on the intestinal microbiota and enzyme activities in mice with spleen deficiency constipation
Authors: Liang Xuejuan , Wan Dan , Li Xinliang , Peng Yanmei , Chen Linglong 
Published: January 2025

ObjectiveThis study aims to explore the therapeutic mechanism of Massa Medicata Fermentata (MMF) with different formulations on spleen deficiency constipation in mice by analyzing gastrointestinal hormones, D-xylose, intestinal microbiota, and intestinal enzyme activities.MethodsA spleen deficiency constipation model was established using an oral administration of Sennae Folium decoction combined with controlled diet and water intake. After successful model establishment, the mice with spleen deficiency constipation were treated with MMF S1, S2, S3. Following the intervention, serum samples from each group of mice were collected to measure VIP, 5-HT, and D-xylose. Additionally, small intestine contents were analyzed for intestinal enzyme activity and subjected to 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing.ResultsMice with spleen deficiency constipation showed significant decreases in body weight and fecal water content. In contrast, the body weight of the CS2 and CS3 groups returned to normal levels, and fecal water content in the CS2 and CS3 groups also returned to normal. The MMF S2 and S3 significantly increased protease and sucrase enzymes levels compared with CM group. Serum D-xylose levels were significantly reduced in the CM and CS2 group. VIP levels increased significantly in the CM group but decreased in the CS2 and CS3 groups. Additionally, 5-HT levels in the CM and CS1 groups decreased significantly, with the CS2 group returning to normal and the CS3 group showing significant increases. 16S rRNA sequencing analysis revealed that all three MMF formulations effectively restored the intestinal microbiota composition in mice. LEfSe analysis identified characteristic microbiota linked to different intervention groups. The CS3 group significantly upregulated the chloroalkane and chloroalkene degradation and vibrio cholerae pathogenic cycle pathways compared to the CM group. Candidatus_Arthromitus in the CS3 group and Psychrobacter in the CS2 group were positive and negative correlations with 5-HT and VIP, respectively.ConclusionThe three formulations of MMF significantly alleviated spleen deficiency constipation symptoms by modulating intestinal enzyme activities, D-xylose, VIP, and 5-HT levels, and restoring intestinal microbiota balance. Psychrobacter and Candidatus_Arthromitus were identified as potential biomarkers for the treatment of spleen deficiency constipation. Different formulations of MMF have different mechanisms of regulating constipation through intestinal microbiota.
Gender, language and labour: gender perception of Estonian and Russian occupational titles
Authors: Kaukonen Elisabeth , Oskolskaia Polina , Lindström Liina , Marling Raili 
Published: January 2025

IntroductionCurrent research on occupational gender stereotypes in language has indicated that gender bias is influenced by various aspects, including social knowledge about roles associated with either men or women as well as linguistic information. This study focuses on gender perception of language users of Estonian and Russian. The former is a grammatically genderless Finno-Ugric language, while the latter has grammatical gender. Based on previous studies, we investigate whether occupational gender stereotypes in these languages are evoked by social beliefs, stereotypes and other extralinguistic factors and/or by language. Additionally, we examine whether the extent of gender bias varies across these languages.MethodsTwo separate web-based Likert scale surveys were conducted, one in Estonian and the other in Russian. The surveys included sentences featuring 36 occupational titles in Estonian and 34 in Russian. Data were analyzed using R software, employing principal component analysis and binomial logistic regression models.ResultsA total of 581 Estonian-speaking as well as 326 Russian-speaking participants took part in the study. Analyses revealed that biased responses were primarily influenced by social knowledge, followed by the influence of language. In Russian, results indicated that stereotypical information often overrides linguistic cues.DiscussionThe results suggest that gender perceptions are shaped by social knowledge and stereotypes, which work in cooperation with language. Based on these results, we propose that Estonian, while grammatically genderless and thus seemingly gender neutral, evokes as much or even more bias than grammatically gendered Russian.
Salivary cardiac troponin does not correlate with serum levels
Authors: Tran Hoa , Vu Vu Hoang , Pham Quang Dang Duy , Tran Duc Minh , Nguyen Suong Thi Bang , Truong Vien Thanh , Truong Binh Quang 
Published: January 2025

IntroductionSeveral studies suggest a potential correlation between troponin levels detected in serum and saliva. However, prior investigations have not adequately addressed the critical aspect of collecting samples upon admission, which is essential for timely troponin level determination. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between troponin levels in serum and saliva among patients admitted for chest pain evaluation.MethodsThis observational study was conducted at the Interventional Cardiology Department of the University Medical Center HCMC. Patients presenting with chest pain were enrolled, and unstimulated saliva samples were collected using the Navazesh method simultaneously with the initial blood collection. These samples were then analyzed for levels of salivary troponin I, serum troponin I, and serum high-sensitive troponin T.ResultsAmong the 48 patients included, 22 (46%) exhibited myocardial injury, while 12 (25%) were diagnosed with acute myocardial infarction. No significant difference was observed in salivary troponin I levels between the non-myocardial injury and myocardial injury groups (p = 0.425). Moreover, no correlation was found between salivary troponin I levels and either serum troponin T or serum troponin I levels (Pearson correlation p = 0.761, 0.500; Spearman correlation p = 0.857, 0.136, respectively). The ROC curve for salivary troponin I in predicting myocardial injury displayed an AUC of 0.566 (95% CI: 0.402–0.731), indicating poor discriminatory power.ConclusionsIn our investigation, salivary troponin I failed to demonstrate a meaningful correlation with serum troponins, thereby limiting its practical utility in diagnosing myocardial injury or myocardial infarction. Further research is warranted to explore its diagnostic reliability and clinical applicability.
Association between red blood cell distribution width-to-albumin ratio and prognosis in post-cardiac arrest patients: data from the MIMIC-IV database
Authors: Cai Yinhe , Zhang Yao , Zhou Ningzhi , Tang Yong , Zheng Haixia , Liu Hong , Liang Jiahua , Zeng Ruixiang , Song Shengqing , Xia Yu 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundCardiac arrest (CA) triggers a systemic inflammatory response, resulting in brain and cardiovascular dysfunction. The red blood cell distribution width (RDW)-to-albumin ratio (RAR) has been widely explored in various inflammation-related diseases. However, the predictive value of RAR for the prognosis of CA remains unclear. We aimed to explore the correlation between the RAR index and the 30- and 180-day mortality risks in post-CA patients.MethodsClinical data were extracted from the MIMIC-IV database. The enrolled patients were divided into three tertiles based on their RAR levels (&lt;3.7, 3.7–4.5, &gt;4.5). Restricted cubic spline, Kaplan–Meier (K-M) survival curves, and Cox proportional hazards regression model were used to explicate the relationship between the RAR index and all-cause mortality risk. Subgroup analyses were also conducted to increase stability and reliability. The receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to assess the predictive ability of the RAR index, red blood cell distribution width, and serum albumin for 180-day all-cause mortality.ResultsA total of 612 patients were eligible, including 390 men, with a mean age of 64.1 years. A non-linear relationship was observed between the RAR index and 180-day all-cause mortality, with a hazards ratio (HR) &gt;1 when the RAR level exceeded 4.54. The K-M survival curve preliminarily indicated that patients in higher tertiles (T2 and T3) of the RAR index presented lower 30- and 180-day survival rates. An elevated RAR index was significantly associated with an increased 30-day [adjusted HR: 1.08, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01–1.15] and 180-day (adjusted HR: 1.09, 95% CI: 1.03–1.16) mortality risk. According to the ROC curve analysis, the RAR index outperformed the RDW and albumin in predicting all-cause 180-day mortality [0.6404 (0.5958–0.6850) vs. 0.6226 (0.5774–0.6679) vs. 0.3841 (0.3390–0.4291)]. The prognostic value of the RAR index for 180-day mortality was consistent across subgroups, and a significant interaction was observed in patients who were white, those with chronic pulmonary disease, or those without cerebrovascular disease.ConclusionThe RAR index is an independent risk factor for 30- and 180-day all-cause mortality in post-CA patients. The higher the RAR index, the higher the mortality. An elevated RAR index may be positively associated with adverse prognosis in post-CA patients, which can remind clinicians to quickly assess these patients.
Mitochondrial oxygen metabolism as a potential predictor of weight loss after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy for class III obesity
Authors: Engelmann Markus , Götze Juliane , Baumbach Philipp , Neu Charles , Settmacher Utz , Ardelt Michael , Kissler Hermann , Coldewey Sina M. 
Published: January 2025

The prevalence of obesity is increasing at an alarming rate in industrialized countries. Obesity is a systemic disease that causes not only macroscopic alterations, but also mitochondrial dysfunction. Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) poses a potential therapeutic option for patients with severe obesity. In order to ascertain the efficacy of bariatric interventions, it is important to assess not only weight loss, but also changes in body composition. Additionally, the aim of this study was to investigate the association between weight loss and cellular oxygen metabolism, a surrogate for mitochondrial function. We used bioimpedance analysis (BIA) to assess changes in weight and body composition in patients up to one year after LSG. To evaluate mitochondrial oxygen metabolism, we used the Cellular Oxygen Metabolism Monitor (COMET) to non-invasively measure the mitochondrial oxygen tension (mitoPO2), mitochondrial oxygen consumption (mitoVO2) and mitochondrial oxygen delivery (mitoDO2). We compared the values obtained in patients with obesity with those of age- and sex-matched healthy controls and investigated changes up to one year after LSG. 48 patients (46.5 years [35.5-55.3]; 38/48 female (79.2%); BMI 46.7 [42.5-51.0]) completed the study. They showed a significant weight loss and a decrease in relative fat mass after six months. We found no differences in mitochondrial oxygen metabolism between obese patients and healthy controls. MitoPO2, mitoVO2 and mitoDO2 did not change up to one year after surgery. It is noteworthy that patients who exhibited higher mitoPO2, mitoVO2, and mitoDO2 values prior to surgery demonstrated superior weight loss outcomes one year after LSG. This was the first study to investigate the non-invasively measured mitochondrial oxygen metabolism in the long-term course after bariatric surgery. Further studies in larger cohorts are needed to confirm these findings.Clinical trial registrationhttps://www.bfarm.de/DE/Das-BfArM/Aufgaben/Deutsches-Register-Klinischer-Studien/_node.html, identifier DRKS00015891.
Association between triglyceride glucose index-related indices and kidney stones in adults based on NHANES 2007–2020
Authors: Liu Ming , Yang Ping , Gou Yunpeng 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundThe triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index and related indices, including the triglyceride-glucose body mass index (TyG-BMI), triglyceride-glucose waist circumference (TyG-WC), and triglyceride-glucose waist-to-height ratio (TyG-WHtR), are increasingly recognized as valuable markers of insulin resistance (IR). This study aimed to assess the associations between these TyG-related indices and kidney stones.MethodsThis cross-sectional study analyzed data from 10,824 participants obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted between 2007 and 2020. Weighted logistic regression models were employed to evaluate the associations between TyG-related indices and kidney stones, with adjustments for potential confounding factors. Subgroup analyses and smooth curve fittings were performed to further examine these associations, while receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to compare the predictive performance of each index.ResultsAll TyG-related indices demonstrated significant positive associations with kidney stones when analyzed as continuous variables. The odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were 1.0040 (1.0028, 1.0052) for TyG-BMI, 1.0015 (1.0011, 1.0020) for TyG-WC, and 1.3305 (1.2277, 1.4419) for TyG-WHtR. Similar trends were observed in subgroup and smooth curve analyses. When stratified into tertiles, higher tertiles of each TyG-related index were associated with increased odds of kidney stones. TyG-WC demonstrated the strongest predictive capability for kidney stones (AUC = 0.6158), followed closely by TyG-WHtR (AUC = 0.6156) and TyG-BMI (AUC = 0.5949), with TyG showing the lowest AUC (0.5815).ConclusionThis study identified significant positive associations between TyG-related indices and kidney stone formation. Among these indices, TyG-WHtR exhibited the highest predictive power for identifying kidney stone risk.
The influence of contemporary and emerging factors on blood lead concentrations among young males in conflict with the law: a case study from a middle-income country
Authors: Mbonane Thokozani P. , Swart Andre , Mathee Angela , Naicker Nisha 
Published: January 2025

IntroductionScientific evidence shows that contemporary and emerging factors contribute to high blood lead concentrations in different populations. The study aimed to determine blood lead concentrations and risk factors associated with high blood lead concentrations among young males in conflict with the law.MethodsA cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 192 conveniently selected participants from two youth secure (correctional) facilities in Gauteng Province, South Africa.ResultsThe study's overall blood lead concentration median was 3.30 μg/dl, ranging from 0.85 to 48.11 μg/dl. Young males born outside of South Africa (median = 8.78 μg/dl) and in villages (median = 4.95 μg/dl), working before coming to the facility (median = 5.23 μg/dl) and involvement in illegal mining (median = 9.00 μg/dl) had high blood lead concentrations in this study. Contemporary and emerging risk factors such as being born outside the country (AOR: 3.10, 95%CI: 1.01–1.88), involvement in illegal mining activities (AOR: 1.36, 95%CI: 1.14–1.91) and staying in a house with peeling paint on the outside (AOR: 2.26, 95%CI: 1.12–4.30) were found to influence blood lead concentration.DiscussionThe study findings show that contemporary (co-existing) and emerging factors influence blood lead concentrations. Therefore, there is a need to investigate these factors further in communities that may be affected. Lastly, there is a need for a holistic approach involving multiple sectors to introduce human lead concentration screening and preventive programmes.
Integrative genomic analyses combined with molecular dynamics simulations reveal the impact of deleterious mutations of Bcl-2 gene on the apoptotic machinery and implications in carcinogenesis
Authors: Elamin Ghazi , Zhang Zhichao , Dwarka Depika , Kasumbwe Kabange , Mellem John , Mkhwanazi Nompumelelo P. , Madlala Paradise , Soliman Mahmoud E. S. 
Published: January 2025

ObjectivesUnlike other diseases, cancer is not just a genome disease but should broadly be viewed as a disease of the cellular machinery. Therefore, integrative multifaceted approaches are crucial to understanding the complex nature of cancer biology. Bcl-2 (B-cell lymphoma 2), encoded by the human Bcl-2 gene, is a critical anti-apoptotic protein that regulates cell death pathways, primarily by inhibiting apoptosis. It plays a pivotal role in maintaining cellular homeostasis by preventing premature or excessive cell death. Genetic variations and dysregulation of Bcl-2 are particularly significant in cancer, as they disrupt the normal apoptotic machinery, enabling cancer cells to evade programmed cell death. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are considered viable diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers for various cancers. Therefore, this study explores the association between SNPs in Bcl-2 and the structural, functional, protein-protein interactions (PPIs), drug binding and dynamic characteristics.MethodsComprehensive cross-validated bioinformatics tools and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Multiple sequence, genetic, structural and disease phenotype analyses were applied in this study.ResultsAnalysis revealed that out of 130 mutations, approximately 8.5% of these mutations were classified as pathogenic. Furthermore, two particular variants, namely, Bcl-2G101V and Bcl-2F104L, were found to be the most deleterious across all analyses. Following 500 ns, MD simulations showed that these mutations caused a significant distortion in the protein conformational, protein-protein interactions (PPIs), and drug binding landscape compared to Bcl-2WT.ConclusionDespite being a predictive study, the findings presented in this report would offer a perspective insight for further experimental investigation, rational drug design, and cancer gene therapy.
A study on sexual violence among women in Northern Ethiopia's 2022 conflict: mixed methods
Authors: Kidie Atitegeb Abera , Masresha Seteamlak Adane , Ayal Birtukan Gizachew , Mekuria Kindie , Kodo Tsion Kokeb , Boye Abayneh Tunta , Tiruneh Misganaw Guadie , Bizuneh Fassikaw Kebede , Fenta Eneyew Talie 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundViolence against women is both a human rights violation and a significant reproductive health issue, causing substantial morbidity. It's a pervasive global public health concern, particularly prevalent in developing regions like sub-Saharan Africa. Ethiopia faces this issue extensively despite its preventable nature, persisting as a significant challenge within the country.ObjectiveThe study aimed to identify the extent and factors associated with sexual violence among women, children, and adolescent girls during the 2022 armed conflict in Northern Ethiopia.MethodA community-based cross-sectional study combined quantitative and phenomenological methods. We used multistage and snowball sampling, involving 574 individuals along with 10 in-depth interviews and 3 focus group discussions (FGDs). Statistical analysis relied on Stata version 16 and open code version 4.03. Quantitative analysis employed multivariable binary logistic regression, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis.ResultThe study found a 9.76% prevalence of sexual violence, with 2.4% experiencing rape during the conflict. Prostitutes faced a fourfold increased risk (AOR: 4.2, 95% CI: 1.3, 10.9). Living in areas with attacks raised the risk 2.7 times (AOR: 2.7, 95% CI: 1.1, 6.2), and a monthly income of 2,001–4,000 ETB increased it 2.5 times (AOR: 2.5, 95% CI: 1.1, 5.7). The impacts included psychosocial effects, stigma, and fear of humiliation, divorce, and displacement.ConclusionApproximately one in ten women experienced sexual violence during the conflict. Factors such as being a prostitute, having a lower income, and living in attacked villages were significant predictors of this violence. The main impacts included psychosocial effects, external blame, and stigma, fear of humiliation, divorce, and displacement.
Predictors of client satisfaction with family planning services in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Ayale Ferede Yeshiwas , Tassew Worku Chekol , Zeleke Agerie Mengistie 
Published: January 2025

BackgroundThe use of modern contraceptives by married Ethiopian women has increased over the past 15 years. Despite a few studies reporting different predictors of satisfaction with family planning services, there is a lack of nationwide data showing the determinants of client satisfaction with family planning services. Thus, this meta-analysis aimed to determine the predictors of client satisfaction with family planning services in Ethiopia.MethodsFrom January 20 to March 10, 2024, a thorough search of the literature was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Google Scholar. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the critical assessment checklist developed by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). The statistical program Stata 11 was used to carry out the analysis. Using Cochran's Q-statistic, heterogeneity was statistically assessed and measured by the I2 value. If significant heterogeneity was found across the included studies, a random effects model was used to assess the factors influencing client satisfaction with family planning services. Otherwise, a fixed-effects model was employed.ResultsIndependent factors influencing clients' satisfaction with family planning services included waiting times of less than one hour (POR = 4.37; 95% CI: 2.05, 9.32), ensuring privacy (POR = 6.31; 95% CI: 2.78, 14.28), convenient opening hours (POR = 5.91; 95% CI: 1.61, 21.63), education level above primary school (AOR = 2.61; 95% CI: 1.02, 6.68), being informed about side effects (AOR = 3.08; 95% CI: 1.22, 7.74), and receiving adequate information (POR = 4.2; 95% CI: 1.87, 9.44).ConclusionThe findings indicate that key factors significantly influencing client satisfaction with family planning services include reduced waiting times, privacy protection, convenient service hours, higher education levels, being informed about potential side effects, and receiving comprehensive information. These elements are critical for improving satisfaction and should be prioritized in family planning services. As a result, Ethiopian policymakers and decision-makers must devise plans to maximize client satisfaction with healthcare services through client-centered care.Systematic Review Registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=563937, PROSPERO (CRD42024563937).