bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Validation of an albumin-indocyanine green-based China liver cancer staging system to evaluating resectable hepatocellular carcinoma patients and comparison with the Child-Pugh-based China liver cancer staging system
Authors: Chen MinQiang , Ren Chao , Wang MengXia , Yu Min , Wu Bo , Zhuang Bo , Jin JianXiang , Zhang YaoQi , Yu ShiAn 
Published: February 2025

AimHere, the utility of an albumin-indocyanine green-based China liver cancer (CNLC) staging system (ALICE-CNLC) as a tool for the prognostic assessment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients was evaluated, comparing this system to the Child-Pugh score-based CNLC staging system.MethodsThe cohort for this study included 331 patients with HCC who had undergone hepatectomy at Jinhua Municipal Central Hospital Medical Group in China from April 2012-June 2021 and had postoperative pathology-confirmed HCC. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were generated, with log-rank tests used to examine prognostic factors. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used for identification of outcome predictors using Cox proportional hazards regression.ResultsThe prediction of overall survival (OS) by the ALICE-CNLC system for patients with stage Ia disease was markedly better than that for patients with stage Ib and IIa disease (P=0.010, P=0.026), while the latter groups did not differ significantly (P=0.796). The ALICE-CNLC system predicted the 3-year recurrence-free survival (RFS) rates for patients with stage Ia, Ib, and IIa disease to be 50.4%, 47.7%, and 25%, respectively, with significant differences among the groups (P=0.033, P&lt;0.001, and P=0.043). These results were similar to those of the CNLC staging system.The OS and RFS did not differ significantly between the same grades of patients evaluated with the ALICE-CNLC and CNLC staging systems.ConclusionThe ALICE-CNLC and CNLC staging systems did not show significant differences in predicting the prognosis of patients with HCC who have undergone hepatectomy.
Efficacy and safety of endoscopic fenestration for treating giant middle cranial fossa arachnoid cysts in pediatrics
Authors: Guo Huachao , Ma Zhen , Lv Qiang , Li Tao , Dong Liujian , Yu Jinliang , Feng Shubin , Wang Yushe 
Published: February 2025

ObjectiveA middle cranial fossa is a well-recognized location for an intracranial arachnoid cyst in children. Giant middle fossa arachnoid cysts (GMFACs) can compress brain tissue, leading to rupture and potentially developing a subdural hygroma or hematoma. With recent advancements in neuroendoscopic technology, neuroendoscopic treatments have increasingly been used for middle fossa cysts. However, the risk of subdural effusion or hematoma is higher postoperatively, and the treatment for subdural effusion remains inconclusive. This study aimed to explore the safety and efficacy of this technology by evaluating the clinical and radiological outcomes of endoscopic fenestration for these cysts.MethodsA retrospective review of the operative procedures database identified 26 procedures performed to fenestrate GMFACs at the Neurosurgery Department of Henan Provincial Children's Hospital. The minimum follow-up period exceeded 6 months.ResultsA total of 26 patients were included between 2016 and 2021. Among the 26 patients, 19 were male, with a mean age of 3.56 ± 2.98 years; 13 were under 2 years. With the applied technique, the cyst volume reduction rate was 76.9% (n = 20). A reduction of more than 50% in middle fossa arachnoid cyst volume was achieved in 57.7% of all patients (n = 15). In five cases (19.2%), the cyst had disappeared by the follow-up date, or its volume reduction exceeded 90%. Symptom improvement or resolution was observed in 13 of the 15 patients (86.7%). The postoperative subdural effusion rate was 53.8% (n = 14). Among these, 64.2% (9/14) of the children experienced complete absorption of subdural effusion, with a mean duration of 5.38 ± 5.37 months. Only 21.4% (3/14) of the children had subdural effusion requiring further surgery. The overall patient reoperation rate was 11.5% (3/26). The multivariate logistic regression analysis results showed that age under 2 years was not associated with postoperative subdural effusion (p = 0.119) or the need for reoperation (p = 0.786).ConclusionsThis study analyzed the efficacy of endoscopic treatment in a predominantly treated patient cohort with GMFACs, as indicated by improved clinical symptoms and reduced radiological volume after treatment. Furthermore, This study has shown that age is neither the cause of subdural effusion nor the leading cause of secondary surgery. Most subdural effusions in children can be absorbed within a few months after surgery, and only a few children need subsequent surgical treatment. Endoscopy is a safe technique for managing giant middle fossa cysts, including younger children.
Ginseng and Polygonum multiflorum formula protects brain function in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Liu Jing-Jing , Wei Feng , Wang Ya-Dan , Liu Jing , Xu Bei-Lei , Ma Shuang-Cheng , Yang Jian-Bo 
Published: February 2025

BackgroundAlzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder with no effective treatment currently available. The Panax ginseng C.A.Mey. and Polygonum multiflorum Thunb. formula (GSPM) has shown potential neuroprotective effects, but its therapeutic efficacy and underlying mechanisms in AD remain unclear and require further investigation.MethodsIn this study, senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8) mice, an AD model, were treated with GSPM (low: 117 mg/kg, high: 234 mg/kg) or donepezil (1.3 mg/kg) via gavage for 2 months. Cognitive function was assessed using the Morris water maze. Hippocampal morphology was evaluated by H&amp;E staining, and neuronal apoptosis was detected by TUNEL assay. Microgliosis and astrogliosis were analyzed by Iba1 and GFAP immunohistochemistry. Levels of phosphorylated Tau, Aβ1-42, Aβ1-40, inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress markers, and senescence markers were measured. Gut microbiota composition was analyzed by 16S rRNA sequencing. In vitro, the effects of GSPM were evaluated in Aβ1-42-stimulated HT22 hippocampal neurons. Cell viability was assessed via CCK-8, and apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry. The AMPK/Sirt1 pathway was investigated by Western blotting, and SIRT1-dependent effects were evaluated following EX527 treatment, a SIRT1 inhibitor.ResultsGSPM treatment improved cognitive function, reduced hippocampal tissue damage, and decreased neuronal apoptosis in AD mice. It alleviated neuroinflammation by reducing microgliosis and astrogliosis and lowered the levels of p-Tau protein and Aβ accumulation in both the hippocampus and cerebrospinal fluid. Additionally, GSPM reversed the enhanced inflammation, oxidative stress, and neuronal senescence observed in AD mice. Furthermore, GSPM modulated gut microbiota composition by reducing microbial diversity and restoring the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio to levels similar to those in control mice. GSPM increased the abundance of Lactobacillus, which was negatively correlated with inflammation, Aβ1-42, p-Tau, and senescence markers. It also decreased the abundance of bacteria, such as Oscillibacter, Helicobacter, and Odoribacter, which are associated with inflammation, oxidative stress, and neuronal senescence. In line with in vivo findings, GSPM increased cell viability, reduced apoptosis, and alleviated oxidative stress in Aβ1-42-stimulated HT22 hippocampal neurons. It also decreased the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduced expression of senescence markers in vitro. Furthermore, GSPM restored AMPK phosphorylation and Sirt1 expression in neurons. Notably, inhibition of Sirt1 by EX527 reversed the neuroprotective effects of GSPM.ConclusionOur data demonstrated that GSPM exhibits protective effects on AD via suppressing the inflammation, oxidation, and senescence, possibly through regulating the Sirt1 signaling. These findings provided a novel therapeutic approach for AD.
The lower rate of bone and joint infection in patients with open extremity fractures associated with vaccination prior to injury: a propensity-matched cohort study
Authors: Hu Wencheng , Shi Saiyu , Lin Junqing , Gao Tao , Shen Junjie , Sun Yi , Wei Haifeng , Zheng Xianyou 
Published: February 2025

BackgroundVaccines could strengthen the innate immune system in addition to conferring protection against their target pathogen via vaccine-induced immunomodulation, a phenomenon termed trained immunity. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether vaccination prior to injury is associated with a lower rate of bone and joint infections (BJIs) in patients with open extremity fractures.MethodsPatients with open extremity fractures treated at one hospital between January 2010 and December 2019 were identified. Incidental vaccine recipients and control cohorts were matched in a 1:1 ratio using propensity scores based on age, sex, anatomical location of the fracture, Gustilo–Anderson classification, body mass index (BMI), and diagnosis of diabetes. The primary endpoint was BJIs within 1 year after initial injury. Secondary outcomes were neutrophil counts and serum C-reactive protein (CRP) levels within 24 h of admission. Logistic or linear regression was performed to control for potential confounding factors when comparing primary and secondary outcomes.ResultsVaccine inoculation history was successfully collected from 6,338 patients, with only 83 patients receiving an incidental vaccine inoculation within 3 months before injury. After propensity score matching, demographic and clinical factors were well-balanced between cohorts (all standardized differences &gt;0.1). After controlling for potential confounders, patients in the vaccine group were at a lower risk of BJIs after open extremity fractures (vaccine, 2/83 [2.4%]; control, 10/83 [12.0%), p = 0.011). Levels of circulating neutrophils and CRP were slightly increased in the vaccine group.ConclusionVaccine inoculation is associated with the lower BJI rate after open extremity fractures, and vaccinated patients might have a more robust immune response against bacterial challenges in terms of neutrophil and CRP levels after injury. Future prospective cohort studies and clinical trials are warranted to evaluate this finding definitively.Clinical Trail registrationhttp://www.chictr.org.cn/usercenter.aspx, identifier ChiCTR2000041093.
Molecular characterization of the heterogeneity of satellite cell populations isolated from an individual Turkey pectoralis major muscle
Authors: Yu Hui , Li Zhenyang , Yimiletey Joseph , Wan Chunmei , Velleman Sandra 
Published: February 2025

Satellite cells (SCs) are myogenic stem cells responsible for post hatch muscle growth and the regeneration of muscle fibers. Satellite cells are not a homogenous population of cells within a muscle and have variable rates of proliferation and differentiation even within a single fiber type muscle like the turkey pectoralis major muscle. In this study, the single satellite cell clones derived from the same turkey pectoralis major muscle with different proliferation rates were compared. The clones were classified as either fast-growing (early clone) or slow-growing (late clone) SCs. To thoroughly examine the molecular differences between these two groups, RNA sequencing was conducted to compare their transcriptomes following 72 h of proliferation. Principal Component Analysis confirmed that the transcriptomic profiles of early- and late-clones are markedly distinct. Differential gene expression analysis identified over 5,300 genes that were significantly differentially expressed between the two groups of cells. Gene ontology analysis showed that genes highly expressed in early clones are responsible for the fundamental aspects of muscle biology, including muscle tissue development and structural maturation. Conversely, genes upregulated in late clones are involved in cell-cell communication, extracellular matrix interactions, signal ligand activity, and cytokine activity—key components for forming an extracellular niche essential for functional satellite cells maintenance. Further examination of specific gene ontology categories such as muscle structure development and extracellular matrix components indicated significant differences in gene expression patterns between early- and late-clones. These findings highlight the genetic and functional diversity of SCs in turkeys. The distinct roles of these satellite cell populations indicate that a balance between them is necessary for preserving the normal physiological functions of SCs.
How dispositional optimism–pessimism relates to early adolescents’ emotional maladjustment during COVID-19? Moderating roles of knowledge about the disease and parent-child conflicts
Authors: Jiang Yongqiang , Wu Dazhou , Lin Xiuyun 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic and associated containment measures changed the daily lives of children and adolescents around the world. To investigate the individual differences in emotional maladjustment under the COVID-19 pandemic, this study focused on the roles of dispositional optimism-pessimism, knowledge about the COVID-19 disease, and conflicts with parents among Chinese early adolescents.Methodedge about the COVID-19 disease, and conflicts with parents among Chinese early adolescents. The participants were 2,958 early adolescents aged 10 to 14 years old who completed online questionnaires during the pandemic.ResultsWhile higher pessimism and lower optimism both led to increased emotional maladjustment, pessimism made a greater contribution. Knowledge about the disease and parent-child conflicts were both risk factors for adolescents’ emotional maladjustment, yet optimism and pessimism interacted with different factors. More knowledge about the disease intensified the effect of pessimism, and more parent-conflict undermined the effect of optimism.DiscussionOur findings provide directions for future aid in adolescence during hard periods depending on one’s personality.
Study on the current situation and spatial distribution of intimate partner violence among Chinese residents
Authors: Zhang Ruofan , Qu Ge , Sun Yuchao , Feng Jing , Lei Zihui , Li Xinyan , Shen Aoqi , Zuo Yanli , Gan Yong 
Published: February 2025

BackgroundIntimate partner violence (IPV), defined as any behavior within an intimate relationship that causes physical, psychological, or sexual harm to those in the relationship, is a significant public health issue worldwide. To analyze the current status and spatial distribution patterns of IPV among residents in China, and identify the nationwide prevalence trends and regions of high severity, so as to provide a scientific basis for the formulation and implementation of government interventions.MethodsA multi-stage sampling approach was employed to conduct a psychological and behavioral survey among 31,449 residents in 148 cities across the nation from June to August 2022. IPV was measured using a self-developed scale that was specifically designed and culturally adapted for the Chinese context, and it was been categorized into psychological violence, physical violence and sexual violence. Geographic information system (GIS) technology and spatial analysis methods was applied. GeoDa 1.18, ArcGIS 10.8 and STATA 17 software were utilized for data analysis.ResultsThe prevalence rates of IPV among Chinese residents was 45.80%, and the prevalence rates of psychological violence, physical violence and sexual violence was 44.50, 21.65 and 18.96%, respectively. The standard deviation plot of prevalence rates across provinces revealed that residents in Shanghai consistently had higher rates of all three categories of IPV compared to the national average level. The results of local spatial auto-correlation analysis indicated that there was a high-high clustering pattern of overall prevalence rates of IPV in Jiangxi and Zhejiang provinces, and a high-low clustering pattern was observed in Jilin, Hebei, and Ningxia provinces. The distribution pattern of intimate partner psychological violence prevalence rates showed a similar clustering pattern as the overall IPV. Additionally, there was a low-low clustering pattern of intimate partner physical violence in Anhui province, and a low-low clustering pattern of intimate partner sexual violence was identified in Anhui and Shandong provinces.ConclusionThe prevalence rates of IPV in China was relatively high, especially in Shanghai, and there was a certain degree of spatial distribution difference, which urgently needs to be paid attention to by relevant departments and institutions, especially around Zhejiang and Jiangxi in eastern China.
Predicting therapy dropout in chronic pain management: a machine learning approach to cannabis treatment
Authors: Visibelli Anna , Finetti Rebecca , Roncaglia Bianca , Poli Paolo , Spiga Ottavia , Santucci Annalisa 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionChronic pain affects approximately 30% of the global population, posing a significant public health challenge. Despite their widespread use, traditional pharmacological treatments, such as opioids and NSAIDs, often fail to deliver adequate, long-term relief while exposing patients to risks of addiction and adverse side effects. Given these limitations, medical cannabis has emerged as a promising therapeutic alternative with both analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. However, its clinical efficacy is hindered by high interindividual variability in treatment response and elevated dropout rates.MethodsA comprehensive dataset integrating genetic, clinical, and pharmacological information was compiled from 542 Caucasian patients undergoing cannabis-based treatment for chronic pain. A machine learning (ML) model was developed and validated to predict therapy dropout. To identify the most influential factors driving dropout, SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) analysis was performed.ResultsThe random forest classifier demonstrated robust performance, achieving a mean accuracy of 80% and a maximum of 86%, with an AUC of 0.86. SHAP analysis revealed that high final VAS scores and elevated THC dosages were the most significant predictors of dropout, both strongly correlated with an increased likelihood of discontinuation. In contrast, baseline therapeutic benefits, CBD dosages, and the CC genotype of the rs1049353 polymorphism in the CNR1 gene were associated with improved adherence.DiscussionOur findings highlight the potential of ML and pharmacogenetics to personalize cannabis-based therapies, improving adherence and enabling more precise management of chronic pain. This research paves the way for the development of tailored therapeutic strategies that maximize the benefits of medical cannabis while minimizing its side effects.
The correlation between sperm DNA methylation and DNA damage: a comparison of comet and TUNEL
Authors: Zimmerman Hailey , Jenkins Tim 
Published: February 2025

ObjectiveTo evaluate the relationship between sperm DNA methylation and DNA damage as determined by the comet or TUNEL assays.DesignRetrospective research study.SettingUniversity-based andrology and in vitro fertilization (IVF) laboratory.Patient(s)Data came from 1,470 male partners (ages 18 and older) recruited from heterosexual couples (ages 18–45 years) seeking fertility treatments. These data were analyzed retrospectively from the Folic Acid and Zinc Supplementation Trial (FAZST) study.Main outcome measure(s)Comet and TUNEL measures and associations with DNA methylation patterns.Result(s)Comet and TUNEL values were correlated with one another across all samples (R2 = 0.34, P &lt; 0.001); however, when assessing the highest and lowest scores reported from each assay, there was little overlap between patients. This suggests that Comet and TUNEL are identifying key differences that may be meaningful and correlated with other sperm metrics. We compared both comet and TUNEL to methylation array data using a sliding window analysis, which identified far more significantly differentially methylated sites as a function of comet than TUNEL (3,387 vs. 23). Interestingly, sites associated with comet were associated with biological pathways related to DNA methylation involved in germline development, as determined by a GO term analysis. The TUNEL assay, by comparison, produced no relevant biological pathways.Conclusion(s)Because the comet and TUNEL assays are both used to indicate levels of DNA damage, and outputs of both are correlated to each other, it would seem to follow that both are equally predictive of deviations in DNA methylation patterns. The findings of this study suggest that this is not the case. The comet assay shows a significantly higher association with DNA methylation disruption, and we therefore believe it to be a better indicator of sperm epigenetic health.
Isthmic spondylolisthesis combined with schwannoma occurring at the same vertebral level: a case report and literature review
Authors: Niu Renrui , Zhao Jianhui , Li Chaoyuan , Guo Fengshuo , Duan Yuchi , Luo Wenqi , Gu Rui 
Published: February 2025

BackgroundThe occurrence of schwannomas at the level of isthmic spondylolisthesis has not yet been reported. Preoperative identification of the responsible lesion and a rational surgical plan are essential for successful surgery.Case presentationWe report the case of a 56-year-old woman who presented with a six-year history of low back pain and a three-year history of radiating pain in the left lower extremity. Physical examination revealed signs of left L5 root compression. Computed tomography revealed left L5–S1 intervertebral foramen stenosis with an isthmic fracture. Unexpectedly, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed an abnormal 12 mm*11 mm*21 mm intradural mass with inhomogeneous contrast enhancement at the level of the spondylolisthesis. Isthmic spondylolisthesis and schwannoma were suspected. Based on the imaging and physical findings, we inferred that the lower-extremity pain was primarily caused by lumbar spondylolisthesis. Under general anesthesia, the patient underwent posterior lumbar interbody fusion of L5–S1 and intradural total tumorectomy. Histopathological examination of the surgical specimen revealed a schwannoma. The patient's symptoms resolved postoperatively, and intervertebral fusion was satisfactory at the 12-month follow-up.ConclusionThis case demonstrates the difficulty of determining the responsible lesion, highlighting the importance of meticulous clinical and imaging examinations. Determining the responsible lesion is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.