bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elucidation of the mechanisms and molecular targets of KeChuanLiuWei‐Mixture for treatment of severe asthma based on network pharmacology
Authors: Cheng Yanqi , Sun Ding , Zou Lu , Li Shaobin , Tang Ling , Yu Xiao , Tang Binqing , Wu Yingen , Fang Hong
Published: August 2023

KeChuanLiuWei‐Mixture (KCLW) is widely used as a Chinese medicine prescription to treat severe asthma. However, the underlying therapeutic mechanism of KCLW remains unclear. In this study, a network pharmacology method was used to identify the chemical constituents of KCLW by the TCMSP database and ultra‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry. Differential expression identification, protein–protein interaction (PPI) network and functional enrichment analysis were used to screen key targets of KCLW for severe asthma. Our results confirmed that quercetin, luteolin, kaempferol, and wogonin are the most critical active ingredients in KCLW. Moreover, the 16 relevant severe asthma‐related targets of KCLW were obtained by overlapping the PPI networks of the KCLW putative targets and severe asthma‐related genes, among which the most important targets were IL‐6, NOS2, VEGFA, CXCL2, and PLAT. Functionally, the 16‐targets and their interacting differentially expressed genes were primarily related to biological functions and pathways related to immunity and inflammation, such as inflammatory response, T cell differentiation, Nrf2/HO‐1 signaling pathway, TGF‐β/Smad signaling pathway, and NF‐κB signaling pathway. KCLW inhibited inflammation in PDGF‐BB‐induced airway smooth muscle cells. In summary, this study demonstrates the active substance and potential therapeutic mechanism of KCLW in severe asthma, and offers a clinical direction for KCLW against severe asthma.
The relationship between APOE genotype, CSF Tau and cognition across the Alzheimer's disease spectrum, moderation and mediation role of insula network connectivity
Authors: Zhu Yao , Wu Yan , Lv Xinyi , Wu Jiaonan , Shen Chunzi , Tang Qiqiang , Wang Guoping ,   Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: August 2023

Aims

To investigate whether insula network connectivity modulates the relationship between apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 genotype, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers (Aβ, Tau, and pTau) and cognition across Alzheimer's disease (AD) spectrum.

Methods

Forty‐six cognitive normal (CN), 35 subjective memory complaint (SMC), 41 mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and 32 AD subjects from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) were obtained. Multivariable linear regression analyses were conducted to investigate the main effects and interaction of the APOE genotype and disease status on the insula functional connectivity (IFC) network. Mediation and moderation analysis were performed to investigate whether IFC strengths regulate the association between APOE genotype, CSF biomarkers and cognition. Additionally, the support vector machine (SVM) model integrating APOE genotype, CSF biomarkers, and neuroimaging biomarkers (insula volumes and altered regional IFCs) was used to classify the AD spectrum.

Results

The interactive effect of the APOE genotype and disease on the insula network was found in the left medial superior frontal gyrus (SFGmed.L), right anterior medial prefrontal cortex (aMPFC.R), and bilateral thalamus (THA.B). The functional connectivities (FCs) in the left insula (LIns) connecting with the left posterior middle temporal gyrus (pMTG.L), SFGmed.L, and right lingual gyrus (LING.R) were correlated with cognition. LIns‐SFGmed.L and LIns‐pMTG.L FCs could moderate the effects of Tau on cognition. Furthermore, LIns‐SFGmed.L FC may suppress the association between APOE genotype and cognition. More importantly, the integrated biomarkers from the SVM model yielded strong powers for classifying the AD spectrum.

Conclusions

Insula functional connectivity regulated the association between APOE genotype, CSF Tau and cognition and provided stage‐dependent biomarkers for early differentiation of the AD spectrum. The present study used a cross‐sectional design. Follow‐up studies are needed to validate the relationship.
Cinchonine and cinchonidine alleviate cisplatin‐induced ototoxicity by regulating PI3K‐AKT signaling
Authors: Tang Dongmei , Wang Xue , Wu Jingfang , Li Yimeng , Li Cai , Qiao Xiangyun , Fan Li , Chen Yutao , Zhu Huanhuan , Zhang Zhiyuan , He Yingzi
Published: August 2023

Aim

Cinchonine (CN) and its isomer cinchonidine (CD), two of the common cinchona alkaloids, are wildly used as antimalarial drugs. However, the effects of CN and CD on the auditory system are unknown.

Methods

Molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation were used for predicting effective drugs. The CCK‐8 assay was conducted for assessing cell viability in House Ear Institute‐Organ of Corti 1 (HEI‐OC1) cells. MitoSox Red staining revealed reactive oxygen species (ROS) amounts. TMRM staining was used to assess the mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm). Immunofluorescence staining of myosin 7a was used to examine hair cells (HCs) in cisplatin‐treated neonatal mouse cochlear explants, while TUJ‐1 immunostaining was used for the detection of spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs). Cleaved caspase‐3 and TUNEL immunostaining were utilized for apoptosis assessment. Immunoblot was carried out to detect PI3K‐AKT signaling effectors.

Results

Pretreatment with CN or CD significantly increased cell viability and reduced mitochondrial dysfunction and ROS accumulation in cisplatin‐treated HEI‐OC1 cells. Immunofluorescent staining of cochlear explants showed that CN and CD attenuated cisplatin‐induced damage to SGNs and HCs. Immunoblot revealed that CN and CD downregulated the expression of cleaved caspase‐3 and activated PI3K‐AKT signaling in cisplatin‐injured HEI‐OC1 cells.

Conclusion

CD and CN can reduce ototoxicity caused by cisplatin and might help treat cisplatin‐associated hearing loss.
Change in cyclone disaster vulnerability and response in coastal Bangladesh
Authors: Alam Edris , Collins Andrew E. , Islam Abu Reza Md. Towfiqul , Paul Alak , Islam Md Kamrul
Published: August 2023

The number of deaths owing to tropical cyclones in Bangladesh has significantly reduced. Category 4 Cyclone Gorky in 1991 and Sidr in 2007 caused 147,000 and 4,500 deaths respectively, whereas Category 1 Cyclone Mora in 2017 resulted in six. Face‐to‐face interviews with 362 residents, participant observation, and focus‐group discussions answer a research question about how change in coastal areas has contributed to this outcome. The study considered institutional approaches of disaster risk management through legal frameworks, administrative arrangements, cyclone preparedness activities, cyclone detection and early warning dissemination, construction of shelter centres, strengthening of various types of coastal embankments, paved roads, and pre‐cyclone evacuation. The findings indicate significant improvement in house structures and design, income levels and diversification, education, awareness, individual capacity, poverty reduction, and lowering dependency on agriculture‐based earning. Furthermore, the availability of mobile telephones, radio, television, and social media platforms enhanced social connectivity and greater gender equality and empowerment helped to facilitate disaster preparedness, evacuation, and response.
Modelling migratory behaviour and habitat use of fish in a large, uninterrupted river network: A case study of a migratory salmonid
Authors: Chudnow Rachel , van Poorten Brett , Pillipow Ray , Spendlow Ian , Gantner Nikolaus , Hinch Scott
Published: August 2023

Bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus) research has historically focused on highly impacted systems or occurred in a reactionary manner following overharvest. Here, we used telemetry and multi‐state capture–recapture modelling to inform management decision‐making for this highly migratory, conservation‐listed species in British Columbia's upper Fraser River watershed (UFW). Our work reduced critical information gaps surrounding the seasonal migration patterns, distribution, and survival rates of fluvial bull trout within the region. By using results of an existing microsatellite DNA analysis, we were able to assign each tagged individual to one of five spawning populations. This assignment allowed us to investigate potential differences in migratory behaviour and seasonal habitat use among the different spawning populations. We identified that the majority of tagged UFW fluvial bull trout made repeated, long‐distance migrations (>300 km one direction) to appropriate spawning, overwintering and foraging habitats. The five populations did not vary in their seasonal transition probabilities at the spatial scale investigated, suggesting key habitats are important to multiple populations. We also detected post‐spawning migration and distribution patterns that suggest UFW bull trout exploit seasonal resource pulses during salmon smolt outmigration. Our results highlight the importance of protecting, restoring and maintaining a diverse assemblage of complex habitats and the natural connections between them (e.g. between tributary spawning habitats and larger rivers) at a spatial scale that supports migratory bull trout life histories. This work provides valuable information for prioritizing conservation actions and identifying restoration opportunities both in the UFW and across the species' range.
Peripherin: A proposed biomarker of traumatic axonal injury triggered by mechanical force
Authors: Fang Tong , Yue Liang , Longlong Zhu , Longda Ma , Fang Huang , Yehui Lv , Yang Li , Yiwu Zhou
Published: August 2023

Traumatic axonal injury (TAI) is one of the most common pathological features of severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). Our previous study using proteomics suggested that peripherin (PRPH) should be a potential candidate as a biomarker for TAI diagnosis. This study is to further elucidate the role and association of PRPH with TAI. In the animal study, we performed immunohistochemistry, ELISA and morphological analysis to evaluate PRPH level and distribution following a severe impact. PRPH‐positive regions were widely distributed in the axonal tract throughout the whole brain. Axonal injuries with PRPH inclusion were observed post‐TBI. Besides, PRPH was significantly increased in both cerebral spinal fluid and plasma at the early phase post‐TBI. Colocalization analysis based on microscopy revealed that PRPH represents an immunohistological biomarker in the neuropathological diagnosis of TAI. Brain samples from patients with TBI were included to further test whether PRPH is feasible in the real practice of neuropathology. Immunohistochemistry of PRPH, NFH, APP and NFL on human brain tissues further confirmed PRPH as an immunohistological biomarker that could be applied in practice. Collectively, we conclude that PRPH mirrors the cytoskeleton injury of axons and could represent a neuropathological biomarker for TAI.
Exploration of Latent Structure in Test Revision and Review Log Data
Authors: Zhang Susu , Li Anqi , Wang Shiyu
Published: August 2023

In computer‐based tests allowing revision and reviews, examinees' sequence of visits and answer changes to questions can be recorded. The variable‐length revision log data introduce new complexities to the collected data but, at the same time, provide additional information on examinees' test‐taking behavior, which can inform test development and instructions. In the current study, we used recently proposed statistical learning methods for sequence data to provide an exploratory analysis of item‐level revision and review log data. Based on the revision log data collected from computer‐based classroom assessments, common prototypes of revisit and review behavior were identified. The relationship between revision behavior and various item, test, and individual covariates was further explored under a Bayesian multivariate generalized linear mixed model.
Comparative analysis of dimethyl fumarate and teriflunomide in relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis
Authors: Müller Jannis , Schädelin Sabine , Lorscheider Johannes , Benkert Pascal , Hänni Peter , Schmid Jürg , Kuhle Jens , Derfuss Tobias , Granziera Cristina , Yaldizli Özgür
Published: August 2023

Background and purpose

In relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), analyses from observational studies comparing dimethyl fumarate (DMF) and teriflunomide showed conflicting results. We aimed to compare the effectiveness of DMF and teriflunomide in a real‐world setting, where both drugs are licensed as first‐line therapies for RRMS.

Methods

We included all patients who initiated DMF or teriflunomide between 2013 and 2022, listed in the Swiss National Treatment Registry. Coarsened exact matching was applied using age, gender, disease duration, baseline Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score, time since last relapse, and relapse rate in the previous year as matching variables. Time to relapse and time to 12‐month confirmed EDSS worsening were compared using Cox proportional hazard models.

Results

In total, 2028 patients were included in this study, of whom 1498 were matched (DMF: n = 1090, 69.6% female, mean age 45.1 years, median EDSS score 2.0; teriflunomide: n = 408, 68.9% female, mean age 45.1 years, median EDSS score 2.0). Time to relapse and time to EDSS worsening was longer in the DMF than the teriflunomide group (hazard ratio 0.734, p = 0.026 and hazard ratio 0.576, p = 0.003, respectively).

Conclusion

Analysis of real‐world data showed that DMF treatment was associated with more favorable outcomes than teriflunomide treatment.
A qualitative study on how intimate partner violence against women changes, escalates, and persists from pre‐ to postseparation
Authors: Li Carrie K. W.
Published: August 2023

Research has focused on intimate partner violence (IPV) against women either before or after separation, but little attention has been paid to the changes in and persistence of violent behaviors from one situation to the next. This study contributes to the literature by comparing the changes in types and frequencies of abusive behaviors of women's former husbands. This allows us to understand how mechanisms of power are enacted through IPV both before and after separation. We interviewed 19 women in the Midwestern United States who had experienced IPV by their former husbands and had subsequently divorced them. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. The findings suggest that verbal abuse and using children were the most common forms of IPV both pre‐ and postseparation. Many preseparation behaviors were replaced by other forms of abuse; for example, physical abuse was not experienced after separation. Some forms of IPV, such as stalking and economic abuse, escalated after separation. This reveals that exerting control over women through nonphysical forms of IPV was more common after separation. In particular, using axial and selective coding approach, our findings present three composite narratives of women's experiences of the changes in, and the escalation and persistence of, the violence they faced. The three composite narratives show how abusive behaviors are situated within patriarchal notions of dominance, power, and control over women and their children. The implications of the findings are discussed in terms of healthcare services, advocacy‐based victim assistance, school officials, and the courts.
A focus on fathers with intellectual disabilities and child protection
Authors: Ćwirynkało Katarzyna , Parchomiuk Monika
Published: August 2023

Objective

The article presents research findings whose aim was to understand the lived experiences of fathers with intellectual disabilities referring to child protection proceedings they were involved in as fathers and the meanings ascribed to these experiences.

Background

Parents with intellectual disabilities face a high risk of having their children removed and being involved in child protection procedures. The overwhelming majority of studies focus on mothers. Little do we know about fathers' perspective.

Method

This study applies a qualitative approach, using in‐depth interviews and interpretative phenomenological analysis to explore the experiences of 14 fathers with intellectual disabilities who were involved in child protection procedures concerning their children. To allow a deeper understanding of the lived experience of the participants, it includes both fathers who lost custody of their children or were threatened with loss of custody.

Results

In the process of analysis, four main themes emerged: (a) adverse experiences, (b) a range of emotions—between despair and giving up, (c) lack of control, and (d) advocacy in promoting their own rights.

Conclusion

Fathers with intellectual disabilities reported being discriminated against on the basis of sex and disability in child protection procedures. Nonetheless, they were determined to fight for their parental rights.

Implications

It is important to focus on gender in research into parenting by people with intellectual disabilities. This will create an opportunity to learn about the needs and problems of mothers and fathers and to provide adequate support.
Human‐modified landscapes driving the global primate extinction crisis
Authors: Torres‐Romero Erik Joaquín , Nijman Vincent , Fernández David , Eppley Timothy M.
Published: August 2023

The world's primates have been severely impacted in diverse and profound ways by anthropogenic pressures. Here, we evaluate the impact of various infrastructures and human‐modified landscapes on spatial patterns of primate species richness, at both global and regional scales. We overlaid the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) range maps of 520 primate species and applied a global 100 km2grid. We used structural equation modeling and simultaneous autoregressive models to evaluate direct and indirect effects of six human‐altered landscapes variables (i.e., human footprint [HFP], croplands [CROP], road density [ROAD], pasture lands [PAST], protected areas [PAs], and Indigenous Peoples' lands [IPLs]) on global primate species richness, threatened and non‐threatened species, as well as on species with decreasing and non‐decreasing populations. Two‐thirds of all primate species are classified as threatened (i.e., Critically Endangered, Endangered, and Vulnerable), with ~86% experiencing population declines, and ~84% impacted by domestic or international trade. We found that the expansion of PAST, HFP, CROP, and road infrastructure had the most direct negative effects on primate richness. In contrast, forested habitat within IPLs and PAs was positively associated in safeguarding primate species diversity globally, with an even stronger effect at the regional level. Our results show that IPLs and PAs play a critical role in primate species conservation, helping to prevent their extinction; in contrast, HFP growth and expansion has a dramatically negative effect on primate species worldwide. Our findings support predictions that the continued negative impact of anthropogenic pressures on natural habitats may lead to a significant decline in global primate species richness, and likely, species extirpations. We advocate for stronger national and international policy frameworks promoting alternative/sustainable livelihoods and reducing persistent anthropogenic pressures to help mitigate the extinction risk of the world's primate species.
Drug‐related problems in older adults in outpatient settings: Results from a 6‐year long prospective study in a tertiary hospital of north India
Authors: Kaur Upinder , Chakrabarti Sankha Shubhra , Gupta Gaurav Kumar , Singh Amit , Gambhir Indrajeet Singh
Published: August 2023

Aim

Drug‐related problems (DRPs) are a common cause of hospitalization in older patients. So far, these issues have been studied in hospitalized settings, and evidence on patterns and outcomes of DRPs, such as adverse drug reactions, is relatively scarce in older outpatients. The main aim of this study was to provide a comprehensive description and possible solutions for DRPs in older adults in outpatient settings.

Methods

The study was carried out from January 2015 to September 2021 in a tertiary hospital in north India. Patients aged ≥50 years with DRPs were enrolled. DRPs causing hospitalization, drug interactions and drug–disease interactions were identified, along with preventive measures.

Results

Of 10 400 patients registered, 1031 DRPs occurred in 666 patients (9.9%). Adverse drug reactions were the major DRPs (n = 933, 8.9%). Metabolic disorders were the commonest DRP in individuals aged ≥65 years compared with gastrointestinal disorders in the 50–64 years group. Drug interactions and drug–disease interactions contributed to 20.1% and 7.9% of patients, respectively. Nearly 15.8% of DRPs directly led to hospitalization, with drug‐induced metabolic disturbances and movement disorders as the common causes. The Naranjo scale was not applicable in 35.3% of patients, and drug interactions were the commonest cause. Frequent monitoring, omission of unnecessary drugs, slow titration and proper instructions on therapy, together, could avoid one‐third of DRPs.

Conclusion

One out of 10 prescriptions of older outpatients carries a DRP. New‐onset metabolic and neurological disturbances should prompt a thorough drug history. A multifaceted holistic approach can prevent significant drug‐related morbidity and requires future evaluation. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 285–291.
MICROHISTORIES OF HEIMAT IN THE THIRD REICH
Authors: Lipner Sandra
Published: August 2023

In the Third Reich, ideas about Heimat became entwined with racial fantasies about blood and soil. This article investigates the dynamics and consequences of this development based on a study of the kinship network of Annemarie and Heinrich Brenzinger from Freiburg (Breisgau). The Brenzingers subscribed to a ‘völkisch’ worldview which conceptualised Heimat as a refuge for kinship groups connected to their locality through lineage. While völkisch groups assisted the Nazi regime in amplifying a fascistic discourse which predated the dictatorship, they also influenced the culture of the Third Reich according to their own ideas. The Nazi regime accepted their activities as part of a transformation of society which required civil engagement. A contrasting reading of Heimat is found in the letters of the Jewish members of this kinship network who were forced from their homeland. It is further elucidated by émigré writers who carefully avoided the völkisch aspects of the Heimat narrative and employed alternative definitions of belonging. By historicising the concepts of Heimat contained in the family collection of the Brenzingers, this article sheds light on the narrowing of the Heimat discourse in Nazi Germany and recovers some of the marginalised voices that resisted it.
Artificial intelligence/neural network system that accurately diagnoses hepatocellular carcinoma in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Okanoue Takeshi , Yamaguchi Kanji , Shima Toshihide , Mitsumoto Yasuhide , Katayama Takayuki , Okuda Keiichiro , Mizuno Masayuki , Seko Yuya , Moriguchi Michihisa , Itoh Yoshito , Miyazaki Toru
Published: August 2023

Background and Aim

The aim of this study was to develop a novel noninvasive test using an artificial intelligence/neural network system (called HCC‐Scope) to diagnose early‐stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) on the background of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

Methods

In total, 175 patients with histologically proven nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and 55 patients with NASH‐HCC were enrolled for training and validation studies. Of the 55 patients with NASH‐HCC, 27 (49.1%) had very early‐stage HCC, and six (10.9%) had early‐stage HCC based on the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer staging system. Diagnosis with HCC‐Scope was performed based on 12 items: age, sex, height, weight, AST level, ALT level, gamma‐glutamyl transferase level, cholesterol level, triglyceride level, platelet count, diabetes status, and IgM‐free apoptosis inhibitor of macrophage level. The FMVWG2U47 hardware (Fujitsu Co. Ltd, Tokyo, Japan) and the originally developed software were used.

Results

HCC‐Scope had sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of 100% for the differential diagnosis between non‐HCC and HCC in a training study with gray zone analysis. It was also excellent in the validation study (95.0% sensitivity, 100% specificity, 100% PPV, and 97.1% NPV with gray zone analysis and 95.2% sensitivity, 100% specificity, 100% PPV, and 97.1% NPV without gray zone analysis). HCC‐Scope had a significantly higher sensitivity (85.3%) and specificity (85.1%) than alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) level, AFP‐L3 level, des‐gamma‐carboxy prothrombin (DCP) level, and the gender–age–AFP‐L3–AFP–DCP (GALAD) score.

Conclusions

HCC‐Scope can accurately differentially diagnose between non‐HCC NASH and NASH‐HCC, including very early‐stage NASH‐HCC.
Methodological and users' surveys on the use of the LILACS database in Cochrane reviews identified desirable improvements to the database
Authors: Escobar‐Liquitay Camila Micaela , Vergara‐Merino Laura , Verdejo Catalina , Kirmayr Matías , Schuller‐Martínez Bastian , Madrid Eva , Meza Nicolás , Bracchiglione Javier , Franco Juan Víctor Ariel
Published: August 2023

Background

Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS) is the main reference database in the region; however, the way in which this resource is used in Cochrane systematic reviews has not been studied.

Objectives

To assess the search methods of Cochrane reviews that used LILACS as a source of information and explore the Cochrane community's perceptions about this resource.

Methods

We identified all Cochrane reviews of interventions published during 2019, which included LILACS as a source of information, and analysed their search methods and also ran a survey through the Cochrane Community.

Results

We found 133 Cochrane reviews that reported the full search strategies, identifying heterogeneity in search details. The respondents to our survey highlighted many areas for improvement in the use of LILACS, including the usability of the search platform for this purpose.

Discussion

The use and reporting of LILACS in Cochrane reviews demonstrate inconsistencies, as evidenced by the analysis of search reports from systematic reviews and surveys conducted among members of the Cochrane community.

Conclusion

With better guidance on how LILACS database is structured, information specialists working on Cochrane reviews should be able to make more effective use of this unique resource.
Clinical spectrum, biochemical profile and disease progression of Kennedy disease in an Indian cohort
Authors: Baskar Dipti , Veeramani‐Kumar Preethish , Polavarapu Kiran , Nashi Saraswati , Vengalil Seena , Menon Deepak , Thomas Aneesha , Bhargava Sanka Sai , Muddasu Suhasini Keerthipriya , Huddar Akshata , Unnikrishnan Gopikrishnan , Bardhan Mainak , Thomas Priya Treesa , Manjunath Nisha , Atchayaram Nalini
Published: August 2023

Background

Kennedy disease (KD) is a slowly progressive lower motor neuron degenerative disease. The prevalence of KD is unknown in India.

Aim

To describe the phenotypic and laboratory features of an Indian cohort of KD patients.

Methods

A retrospective study was done on seven genetically confirmed KD patients based on demographic, clinical and laboratory details.

Results

Mean age at onset and presentation was 37 ± 11.9 and 44.6 ± 13.5 years respectively. Progressive asymmetric proximal and distal limb weakness was the commonest symptom (57.1%). All patients had motor symptoms along with non‐specific symptoms such as cramps from the onset. Easy fatigability, decremental response along with ptosis were noted in two patients, which was a novel finding. Gynaecomastia and tongue wasting with fasciculations were universal findings. All five patients with nerve conduction studies showed sensorimotor neuropathy. Magnetic resonance imaging muscle done in two patients showed a prominent moth‐eaten appearance in the thigh and posterior leg compartment in one patient. The mean cytosine‐adenine‐guanine repeats were 44 ± 3.7, and there was no association between age of onset or severity with repeat length. Only one patient required an assistive device for ambulation after 15 years of symptom onset.

Conclusions

This study showed phenotypic heterogeneity in the Indian cohort. The age of onset was earlier with a slowly progressive indolent course as compared with other ethnic cohorts. This highlights the importance of considering the KD diagnosis in patients with the indolent course and suspected ALS diagnosis even with ptosis and fatigability in an appropriate clinical context.
Anxiety, depression, and stress among nurses under the stress of flooding and the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Lijuan Quan , Lin Ye , Juntao Li , Kun Yuan , Hongjuan Chang
Published: August 2023

Aim

This study investigated anxiety, depression, and stress and their influencing factors among nurses during the COVID‐19 pandemic and after the flood in Henan Province, China. It aimed to provide the theoretical foundation for the management of relevant hospital departments, improvement of nursing quality, implementation of antiepidemic work, and other relevant studies.

Background

In December 2019, COVID‐19 was reported in Wuhan, China and became a global pandemic. In July 2021, unprecedented flooding occurred in Henan Province, China. Under the dual pressure of COVID‐19 and the flood, nurses’ mental health problems deteriorated.

Methods

In August 2021, 1229 nurses from various departments of the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University in Xinxiang City, Henan Province,China were invited to participate in a questionnaire survey using a general condition questionnaire and the Chinese version of the Depression–Anxiety–Stress Scale. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the status of nurses’ anxiety, depression, and stress. Analysis of variance, t‐test, and multiple linear regression models were used to analyze the factors influencing anxiety, depression, and stress among nurses.

Results

Of the participants, 36.1%, 10.1%, and 15.5% had moderate to high levels of anxiety, stress, and depression, respectively. Moreover, 42 (3.4%) participants experienced high to severe levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. The scores showed significant differences based on gender, harmonious family relationships, department position, work intensity, sleep quality, physical exercise, participation in leisure activities, health status, involvement in emotion management‐related training, and attending self‐care‐related training (all P < 0.05). Gender, work intensity, harmonious family relationships, health condition, sleep quality, and participation in leisure activities influenced stress, anxiety, and depression scores. Department position influenced anxiety and stress scores, and average monthly earnings influenced anxiety scores.

Conclusion

All the nurses experienced various levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. Related departments should pay special attention to male nurses and nurses with high work intensity, unharmonious family relationships, poor health, and sleep quality, and who engage in fewer leisure activities.

Implications for nursing and health policy

It is recommended that departments allocate human resources and arrange schedules reasonably, encourage nurses to participate in more recreational activities, and implement emotion management and self‐care‐related training to relieve emotional distress, and ultimately maintain nurses’ mental health.
Factors associated with the core dimensions of spiritual health among older adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Jiang Yuyu , Chen Zhongyi , Nuerdawulieti Baiyila , Chen Mengjie , Nan Jiang , Li Jinping , Ge Yan
Published: August 2023

Aims

To investigate the level of spiritual health in older patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) from the core dimensions and to explore its associated factors.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Participants were recruited from four hospitals between September 2020 and June 2021, using a convenience sampling. Older patients with COPD (n = 162) completed the demographic and disease‐related information questionnaires, Function Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy Spiritual Scale, 10‐item Connor‐Davidson Resilience Scale, General Self‐efficacy Scale, Social Support Rating Scale, COPD Assessment Test, 15‐item Geriatric Depression Scale and modified Medical Research Council Dyspnea Scale. Descriptive statistics, Pearson and Spearman correlation analyses, t‐tests, one‐way ANOVA and multiple linear regression models were used.

Results

Older patients with COPD have a moderate level of spiritual health. The multiple linear regression analysis showed that psychological resilience, general self‐efficacy, social support, symptom burden and monthly income were associated with the core dimensions of spiritual health.

Conclusion

Chinese older patients with COPD have a moderate level of spiritual health. Psychological resilience, general self‐efficacy, social support, monthly income and symptom burden were associated with the core dimensions of spiritual health.

Impact

This study is the first to investigate the level of spiritual health in older patients with COPD from the core dimensions and to explore its associated factors, providing a basis for developing spiritual intervention programs. Our findings can help us realize that intervention strategies of psychological resilience, general self‐efficacy and social support can all be used to enhance spiritual health. Nurses should focus on the spiritual health of older COPD patients with high symptom burden and low monthly income.

Patient or Public Contribution

Although we did not directly involve patients and the public because of the COVID‐19 pandemic, the results of the study will be disseminated to patients and the public through WeChat and seminars.
Removable complete denture with a metal base: Integration of digital design and conventional fabrication techniques
Authors: Park Koungjin , Kang Nam‐Gil , Lee Jae‐Hyun , Srinivasan Murali
Published: August 2023

Objective

Digitally‐designed removable complete dentures are typically composed of a resin denture base without a metal framework. However, metal denture bases are preferable as resin bases are more susceptible to fracture. Therefore, this article introduces a unique technique that integrates computer‐aided design (CAD) and conventional resin processing for the fabrication of removable complete dentures with a metal framework.

Clinical Considerations

A maxillary complete denture with a metal base and a mandibular implant‐retained overdenture reinforced with a metal framework were fabricated. The dentures were designed using CAD software and a tooth library. The denture bases were milled from wax disks, and artificial teeth were placed to complete the wax dentures. The metal frameworks were also designed using CAD software and produced via casting of printed resin patterns. Finally, conventional denture processing techniques were applied to obtain dentures with metal frameworks.

Conclusions

A digitally designed, removable complete denture with a metal base can be successfully fabricated using the described technique, which merges digital design and conventional methods. This article demonstrates the feasibility and potential advantages of this innovative approach in denture fabrication.

Clinical Significance

The presented technique provides the following advantages: digital design features, precise space above implant overdenture attachments for a metal framework, convenience of esthetic evaluation with printed trial dentures, long‐term data storage and duplication, reliable bond between the artificial teeth and denture base, and enhanced strength of the removable complete denture due to the metal reinforcement.
Effects of rope skipping exercise on physical, cardiovascular fitness and exercise tolerance in adolescent students with moderate intellectual disability
Authors: Lin Y.‐Y. , Su C.‐T. , Liao Y.‐H. , Liu Y.‐C.
Published: August 2023

Background

Adolescents with intellectual disabilities (ID) who live a sedentary lifestyle may lead to an increased risk of chronic cardiovascular disease in adulthood. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of 8‐week progressive rope skipping training on physical, cardiovascular fitness and exercise tolerance of high school students with moderate ID.

Methods

Thirty‐four senior high school with ID (aged 15–18 years old) were randomised into experimental group received progressive skipping rope exercise (RS, n = 17) and control group no rope skipping exercise intervention group (CON, n = 17). The RS group were received progressive rope skipping exercise for 50 min each time, three times a week, for 8 weeks. The control group was not allowed to participate in intervention activities during the study period. The physical fitness, body composition, arterial stiffness index (ASI) and blood pressure were measured before and after the 8‐week intervention.

Results

After the 8‐week progressive skipping rope exercise intervention, the participants from the RS group increased in the 3‐min step test, sit‐up test, grip strength and sit and reach test, when compared to the baseline (P < 0.05). The RS group exhibited lower the area under curve of heart rate (HR) during post‐exercise recovery (P < 0.05). The participants in the RS group showed significant decreases in systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure, mean arterial pressure (MAP) and HR when compared to the baseline (P < 0.05). Change SBP has moderate positive correlation with change ASI.

Conclusions

The results of this experiment suggest that progressive rope skipping exercise might improve physical fitness and promote cardiovascular health, as well as enhance exercise tolerance for adolescent students with moderate ID.
Sustained improvement of intrinsic capacity in community‐dwelling older adults: The +AGIL Barcelona multidomain program
Authors: Ferrara Maria Cristina , Pérez Laura Mónica , Sole Aida Ribera , Villa‐García Lorena , Ars Joan , Soto‐Bagaria Luis , Bellelli Giuseppe , Cesari Matteo , Enfedaque María Belén , Inzitari Marco
Published: August 2023

Background

Different programs promote healthy ageing through the optimization of intrinsic capacity. However, a major challenge is to assess their sustained effects over time. +AGIL Barcelona, a consolidated multidomain program, aims to optimize older adults’ intrinsic capacity through a coordinated approach among primary care, geriatrics and community resources, in agreement with the integrated care for older people (ICOPE) guidelines. We aimed to evaluate the +AGIL Barcelona longitudinal effect on older adults’ physical performance.

Methods

All +AGIL Barcelona consecutive participants since 2016 were enrolled. After a comprehensive geriatric assessment, a tailored, multidisciplinary intervention aligned with the ICOPE guidelines is offered. It includes a 10‐week boost multicomponent exercise program, nutritional and sleep‐hygiene counselling, revision and optimization of pharmacological treatments and screening for cognitive impairment, depression and loneliness. Changes in physical performance after 3 and 6 months were assessed using mixed models including baseline frailty degree, time and all potential significant confounders.

Results

We included 194 participants in the analysis (mean age = 81.6 [standard deviation = 5.8], 68% women). An independent, clinically and statistically significant improvement in physical performance (Short Physical Performance Battery [SPPB] test, combining gait speed, strength and balance) was found at 3 months (SPPB mean change: 1.4; 95% CI: 1.1–1.6) and 6 months (SPPB mean change: 1.1; 95% CI 0.8–1.5). Equivalent results were observed for all the SPPB sub‐tests.

Conclusions

A coordinated, multidisciplinary and integrated program can benefit older adults’ intrinsic capacity. The participants’ empowerment and the connection with the available community resources are critical points for a successful intervention.
Stability and change in predictors of marital dissolution in the US 1950–2017
Authors: Rosenfeld Michael J. , Roesler Katharina
Published: August 2023

Objective

Our goal is to measure change over time in the predictors of marital dissolution in the United States.

Background

The last comprehensive comparative analysis of predictors of marital dissolution is more than 20 years out of date. Rising inequality in the United States requires a fresh look at the predictors of marital dissolution. The Diverging Destinies hypothesis predicts greater inequality over time in the divorce rate between groups, whereas the Converging Destinies hypothesis predicts convergence in divorce rates.

Method

We use a variety of event history models to examine the change over time in race, ethnicity, intermarriage, premarital cohabitation, education, teen marriages, and family of origin intactness as predictors of marital dissolution using data on first marriages from the National Survey of Family Growth covering seven decades of marital histories. We examine racial differences in the nonracial predictors of divorce.

Results

In the post‐Civil Rights era, Black women's and White women's marital dissolution rates converged. In the most recent marriage cohorts, marital dissolution rates for Black women have increased relative to White women and teen marriage is increasingly associated with divorce. Women without the BA degree appear to be increasingly at risk for divorce. We find that wives from racial minority groups have divorce rates that are less impacted by premarital cohabitation, low education, and teen marriage.

Conclusion

The demographic profile of women at marriage has changed dramatically, while the predictors of divorce have changed modestly. Where there are changes in the predictors of divorce, we find more support for Diverging Destinies.
Factors influencing the selection of oral healthcare providers in multidisciplinary Nutrition Support Team for malnourished inpatients: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Suzuki Hiroyuki , Furuya Junichi , Nakagawa Kazuharu , Hidaka Rena , Nakane Ayako , Yoshimi Kanako , Shimizu Yukue , Saito Keiko , Itsui Yasuhiro , Tohara Haruka , Minakuchi Shunsuke
Published: August 2023

Background

Oral health management involving dental professionals in a multidisciplinary Nutritional Support Team (NST) is effective collaborative care. However, the indicators for the triage of oral health management requirements and selection of oral healthcare providers remain unclear.

Objective

This cross‐sectional study included inpatients with malnutrition and aimed to investigate the factors associated with determining the need for oral health management involving dental professionals and selecting primary oral healthcare providers when needed.

Methods

Participants included 255 inpatients (154 males and 101 females, mean age 69.7 ± 14.4 years) aged ≥20 years who underwent oral assessment by the NST between April 2016 and July 2019. Participants were assigned to the following groups: good oral health group, oral health management by nurses under the supervision of dental professionals group, and oral health management by dental professionals group. The comprehensive oral health status was investigated using the Oral Health Assessment Tool (OHAT). The total OHAT score ranges from 0 to 16, with a higher score indicating a poorer oral environment.

Results

The total OHAT score had a significant correlation with the need for oral health management by dental professionals. Inpatients with denture problems required oral health management from dental professionals. The optimal cutoff value of the total OHAT score for determining the need for oral health management was four.

Conclusion

The need for oral health management by dental professionals increased with worsening oral health status, especially denture problems. The OHAT score could be used to triage inpatients who require oral health management collaborated with dental professionals.
Conceptualizing “positive attributes” across psychological perspectives
Authors: Wilson Danielle , Ng Vincent , Alonso Nicole , Jeffrey Anne , Tay Louis
Published: August 2023

Background

The growth of positive psychology has birthed debate on the nature of what “positive” really means. Conceptualizations of positive attributes vary across psychological perspectives, and it appears these definitional differences stem from standards for “positive” espoused by three normative ethical frameworks: consequentialism, deontology, and virtue ethics. When definitions of “positive” do not align with one of these ethical schools, it appears researchers rely on preference to distinguish positive attributes. In either case, issues arise when researchers do not make their theoretical alignment explicit, leading to value‐laden, often subjective criteria being smuggled into science as a description of what is positive.

Objective

To foster a deeper critical understanding of the different approaches, we examine how these conceptual definitions of positive attributes (mis)align with their ethical traditions or fail to align with an ethical school.

Method

We review several positive attribute theories across psychological disciplines that serve as examples of the ethical and non‐ethical sources of “positivity.” Through this, we assess the conceptual criteria for what each approach considers “positive,” note the degree of alignment between definition and ethical school, and draw attention to potential issues.

Conclusion

We advance the conceptual assessment of positive attributes by considering the implications of failing to explicitly address the theoretical foundation from which a construct is defined.
Rapid expansion of the invasive‐like red macroalga, Chondria tumulosa (Rhodophyta), on the coral reefs of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument
Authors: Lopes Keolohilani H. , Miura Tomoaki , Hauk Brian , Kosaki Randall , Leonard Jason , Hunter Cynthia
Published: August 2023

A cryptogenic, invasive‐like red macroalga, Chondria tumulosa, was first observed in 2016 forming thick mats on the forereef of Manawai Atoll within Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. Subsequent expeditions revealed an increased abundance of this alga. In 2021, unattached C. tumulosa was observed forming a network of dark, meandering accumulations throughout the atoll's inner lagoon. High‐resolution satellite imagery revealed that these accumulations became visible in 2015 (length: ~0.74 km; area: ~0.88 km2) and increased 56‐fold in length and 115‐fold in area by 2021 (length: 41.32 km; area: 101.34 km2). An exponential expansion rate of ~16.02 km · y−1 (length), ~44.75 km2 · y−1 (area). This study presents the comprehensive temporal and spatial expansion of C. tumulosa accumulations for Manawai Atoll since its discovery, providing ecologist and resource managers with a proxy to gauge the overall abundance trend of this invasive‐like alga.
Environmental microbes promote phenotypic plasticity in reproduction and sleep behaviour
Authors: Téfit Mélisandre A. , Budiman Tifanny , Dupriest Adrianna , Yew Joanne Y.
Published: August 2023

The microbiome has been hypothesized as a driving force of phenotypic variation in host organisms that is capable of extending metabolic processes, altering development and in some cases, conferring novel functions that are critical for survival. Only a few studies have directly shown a causal role for the environmental microbiome in altering host phenotypic features. To assess the extent to which environmental microbes induce variation in host life‐history traits and behaviour, we inoculated axenic Drosophila melanogaster with microbes isolated from drosophilid populations collected from two different field sites and generated two populations with distinct bacterial and fungal profiles. We show that microbes isolated from environmental sites with modest abiotic differences induce large variation in host reproduction, fatty acid levels, stress tolerance and sleep behaviour. Importantly, clearing microbes from each experimental population removed the phenotypic differences. The results support the causal role of environmental microbes as drivers of host phenotypic plasticity and potentially, rapid adaptation and evolution.