bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new early warning method for mild cognitive impairment due to Alzheimer's disease based on dynamic evaluation of the “spatial executive process”
Authors: Li Kai , Ma Xiaowen , Chen Tong , Xin Junyi , Wang Chen , Wu Bo , Ogihara Atsushi , Zhou Siyu , Liu Jiakang , Huang Shouqiang , Wang Yujia , Li Shuwu , Chen Zeyuan , Xu Runlong
Published: August 2023

Objective

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) due to Alzheimer's disease (AD), as an early stage of AD, is an important point for early warning of AD. Neuropathological studies have shown that AD pathology in pre-dementia patients involves the hippocampus and caudate nucleus, which are responsible for controlling cognitive mechanisms such as the spatial executive process (SEP). The aim of this study is to design a new method for early warning of MCI due to AD by dynamically evaluating SEP.

Methods

We designed fingertip interaction handwriting digital evaluation paradigms and analyzed the dynamic trajectory of fingertip interaction and image data during “clock drawing” and “repetitive writing” tasks. Extracted fingertip interaction digital biomarkers were used to assess participants’ SEP disorders, ultimately enabling intelligent diagnosis of MCI due to AD. A cross-sectional study demonstrated the predictive performance of this new method.

Results

We enrolled 30 normal cognitive (NC) elderly and 30 MCI due to AD patients, and clinical research results showed that there may be neurobehavioral differences between the two groups in digital biomarkers captured during SEP. The early warning performance for MCI due to AD of this new method (areas under the curve (AUC) = 0.880) is better than that of the Minimum Mental State Examination (MMSE) neuropsychological scale (AUC = 0.856) assessed by physicians.

Conclusion

Patients with MCI due to AD may have SEP disorders, and this new method based on dynamic evaluation of SEP will provide a novel human–computer interaction and intelligent early warning method for home and community screening of MCI due to AD.
Absent Superior Vena Cava: An Uncommon Cause of Anomalous Systemic Venous Return
Authors: Kaskar Ameya , Sheth Kshitij , Paanwala Hiren , Khan Naveed , Kumar Gaurav
Published: August 2023

We report a case of a one-year-old boy with tetralogy of Fallot, who was preoperatively diagnosed to have an associated systemic venous anomaly. Computed tomography confirmed the absent superior vena cava, and the case was managed with an appropriate cannulation strategy. Preoperative diagnosis and thorough planning of this rather benign anomaly were imperative for the successful outcome of this case. Clinical and surgical implications of this anomaly are discussed in this report.
Impact of Ownership Structure and Business Diversifications on the Risk-Taking Behaviors of Insurance Companies in Vietnam
Authors: Duong Khoa Dang , Le Ai Nhan Ngoc , Nguyen Diep Van , Le Hoa Thanh Phan
Published: August 2023

This study analyzes the impacts of ownership structure and business diversifications on the risk-taking behaviors of insurance companies in Vietnam. Foreign ownership and institutional ownership in the insurance sector are increasing significantly due to the privatization trend in Vietnam. Besides, business diversification allows insurance firms to maximize profits and reduce insolvency. Therefore, this study enriches the current literature because it is the first to examine how ownership and diversifications affect the risk-taking behaviors of insurance companies in Vietnam. We employ the Ordinary Least Squares, Fixed Effect Models, Random Effect Models, Generalized Least Squares, and dynamic system Generalized Methods of Moments to analyze 42 insurance companies from 2005 to 2020. Our findings indicate that business diversification increases the risk-taking behaviors of insurance firms. We also figure out a U-shaped relationship between institutional ownership and risk-taking behavior, with a turning point of 9.8%. This study also indicates an inverse U-shaped relationship between foreign ownership and insurers’ risk-taking behaviors, with a turning point of 20%. Thirdly, the interaction terms between ownership and diversification suggest the moderate role of business diversification in increasing the risk of insurance firms. Our findings align with agency theory, stakeholder theory, monitoring hypothesis, expropriation hypothesis, and prior literature. This study contributes practical implications for managers and policymakers to develop the insurance sector sustainably.
Leading Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) in Education: Bibliometric and Content Analysis From the Web of Science (2018–2022)
Authors: Zhao Xiaoli , Ren Yu , Cheah Kenny S. L.
Published: August 2023

Emerging virtual reality and augmented reality (VR/AR) technologies in education have the potential to revolutionize the whole educational experience. Studies have shown that before introducing the technology to their pupils, educators should do a thorough assessment of the technology’s viability and possible acceptance in the classroom. However, not much is synthesized from the body of knowledge about the leadership and coupling of VR and AR in education, including its trends and direction of research in other domains. In this article, the bibliometric and content analysis has shown that interest in virtual reality and augmented reality has increased from 2018 to 2022 in the Web of Science database. The patterns formed from Vosviewer in the bibliometric analysis have also portrayed that Virtual reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are used in many fields, including education, medicine, arts, engineering, business, and marketing. Other results from data mining showed the authors with the most publications in the field, their affiliated universities, and the source of publications. In the wake of the Covid-19 epidemic, these findings may also help improve educational opportunities for all students and the quality of instruction they receive. As implications, Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) harness current technology to put digital content in the actual world, enabling consumers to have a more meaningful interaction with it on desktop or hand-held devices. This bibliometric research shows that animation, 3D graphics, and sound may replace more traditional ways of schooling in the future.
Call Centers and Associated Health Hazard for Women Employees: A Review of Health Implications for Women Employees of Transnational Call Centers in India
Authors: Gupta Amrita , Sekher T. V.
Published: August 2023

Indian women are fast moving from conventional jobs to night-shift jobs in transnational call centers. Women working at night is a relatively new phenomenon and stands apart from the usual Indian lifestyle. Night work and the dual burden of work and family have adverse implications on women employees’ physical and psychological health. The paper highlights the occupational health hazards of women employees of international call centers through a systematic review of 38 articles published between 2000 and 2018. Data and evidence from studies on women employees of international call centers in India reveal that odd working hours against the biological clock make women employees suffer from several health problems. Women were more prone to health problems as compared to their counterparts. The responsibility of balancing work and family leads to high levels of stress. Despite the attractive salary package, most women employees suffer health hazards and psychological disorders.
Identifying Crucial Attributes of Sustainable Operation for Scientific Instrument Platforms With a Fuzzy Synthetic Cause-Effect Model
Authors: Wang Xiaobo , An Zhishan , Zhang Caixia
Published: August 2023

Scientific instrument platforms (SIPs) and their operation appraisal have received extensive attention in recent years. However, SIPs struggle to incorporate sustainability into their organizational strategies and implement it in their innovation and business activities to improve their performance levels. This study adopts a SIP sustainability evaluation framework and develops a fuzzy synthetic DEMATEL approach to evaluate the mutual influence between the attribute criteria based on the opinions of diverse stakeholders within the SIP system. The findings suggest that operational characteristics, mainly including organizational reputation, construction goals, staff welfare and external services, drive the current SIP performance. Interactive control of top management and executive’s action plays a major role in sustaining an excellent SIP, while becoming a central issue for most SIPs at the current development phase. The contribution of this study is to shed light on why some successful SIPs are able to achieve their goals and remain prominent, and how those inefficiently operated SIPs should capture and change the failing properties to positively and practically improve their bad situation.
An Investigation Into Artificial Intelligence Speech Evaluation Programs With Automatic Feedback for Developing EFL Learners’ Speaking Skills
Authors: Zou Bin , Du Yiran , Wang Zhimai , Chen Jinxian , Zhang Weilei
Published: August 2023

The development of artificial intelligence (AI) technology has enhanced the use of automated speech evaluation systems for language learners to practice speaking skills. This study investigated whether various automatic feedback offered by AI speech evaluation programs can help English as a foreign language (EFL) learners develop speaking skills. Forty EFL learners in China participated in this study. Data collection included qualitative and quantitative data. The results showed that the majority of participants believed they improved their speaking skills with the feedback offered by the AI speaking evaluation program. The findings also revealed that there were significant improvements in their mean scores of speaking skills in pre- and post-tests. Therefore, it is suggested that AI speaking evaluation systems could provide more varied textual feedback and practical suggestions to assist EFL learners in developing speaking skills.
Resilient Tightroping as Becoming Included: Theorizing from the Journey of Kazakhstani Disabled Entrepreneur
Authors: Kenzhegaranova Madina
Published: August 2023

Scholars of entrepreneurship among people with disabilities suggest that it is necessary to develop deeper insights into the contextual elements that enable or oppose such entrepreneurship. This study problematizes a core premise of the disability entrepreneurship literature that social support, institutional support or both enact disability entrepreneurship. This study modifies the premise by examining a case from the contextual scenario of a post-Soviet country where both societal and institutional attention to disability are largely inadequate and unfavourable. This case study concerns a blind female dancer in Kazakhstan who developed herself into a successful cultural entrepreneur. This inductive study proposes a process model which is labelled resilient tightroping, a model that enables a person with a disability to move towards empowerment and inclusion. The author is well aware that one cannot generalize from a single case. On the other hand, a single case can identify a deficiency in current thinking and point to additional directions where research is needed.
Association between chronic disease and substance use among older adults in Tennessee
Authors: Ahuja Manik , Stamey Jessica , Cimilluca Johanna , Al Skir Kawther , Herndon Mary K , Baggett Kathleen , Sathiyasaleen Thiveya , Fernandopulle Praveen
Published: August 2023

Background:

Substance use and misuse have a negative impact on health care outcomes, specifically in the older adult population. Older adults are at risk due to several factors occurring toward the end of life such as changing family dynamics, loss of friends and loved ones, and chronic diseases. Substance use in older adults with chronic diseases in rural areas remains poorly studied. This study examines older adults greater than 55 of age in the state of Tennessee, U.S.A.

Design and methods:

Data was extracted from the 2019 National Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) with a subsample for the State of Tennessee ( N = 6242) and individuals over age 55 ( N = 3389).

Results:

At least 33.7% ( N = 1143) of older adults have a chronic disease, and 24.4% ( N = 828) have at least two or more chronic diseases. Alcohol use in the past month was reported in 29.4% of older adults; however, chronic disease status was not associated with alcohol use. Marijuana use and smoking in the past month were significant for older adults with two or more chronic diseases. Low income and less high school education were associated with chronic disease and smoking.

Conclusions:

Marijuana use and smoking were found to be significant in older adults with chronic disease, but not with alcohol use. Preventative measures such as screening tools, education, and providing resources to patients should be targeted to populations at risk to promote overall health outcomes.
Environmental Movements in Odisha: A Perspective on Mining
Authors: Rout Baijayanti
Published: August 2023

This article attempts to discuss various protest movements especially issues related to mining in Odisha. Although Odisha is a mineral-rich state, the article only discussed the environmental movement interlinked with mining in Odisha. This article also focuses on the nature, strategies, outcomes, and situations of different environmental movements in Odisha. The important environmental movements interlinked with mining issues are discussed such as the Kalinganagar movement, the anti-POSCO movement, Kashipur (UAIL) movement, the Niyamgiri movement, and the BALCO movement of Odisha.
Book review: Raj Kumar, Dalit Literature and Criticism
Authors: Das Joy , Adhikary Bibek
Published: August 2023

Raj Kumar, Dalit Literature and Criticism. Hyderabad: Orient BlackSwan, 2019, 159 pp., ₹250.00 (paperback). ISBN: 978-93-5287-532-0.
Book review: Yogesh Maitreya, Water in a Broken Pot: A Memoir
Authors: Ranjan Alok , Shuchi
Published: August 2023

Yogesh Maitreya, Water in a Broken Pot: A Memoir. Penguin Random House India, 2023, 312 pp., ₹499 (Hardcover). ISBN: 9870670095186.
Improving Statistical Analysis in Team Science: The Case of a Bayesian Multiverse of Many Labs 4
Authors: Hoogeveen Suzanne , Berkhout Sophie W. , Gronau Quentin F. , Wagenmakers Eric-Jan , Haaf Julia M.
Published: August 2023

Team-science projects have become the “gold standard” for assessing the replicability and variability of key findings in psychological science. However, we believe the typical meta-analytic approach in these projects fails to match the wealth of collected data. Instead, we advocate the use of Bayesian hierarchical modeling for team-science projects, potentially extended in a multiverse analysis. We illustrate this full-scale analysis by applying it to the recently published Many Labs 4 project. This project aimed to replicate the mortality-salience effect—that being reminded of one’s own death strengthens the own cultural identity. In a multiverse analysis, we assess the robustness of the results with varying data-inclusion criteria and prior settings. Bayesian model comparison results largely converge to a common conclusion: The data provide evidence against a mortality-salience effect across the majority of our analyses. We issue general recommendations to facilitate full-scale analyses in team-science projects.
Modeling Cluster-Level Constructs Measured by Individual Responses: Configuring a Shared Approach
Authors: Jak Suzanne , Jorgensen Terrence D. , ten Hove Debby , Nevicka Barbara
Published: August 2023

When multiple items are used to measure cluster-level constructs with individual-level responses, multilevel confirmatory factor models are useful. How to model constructs across levels is still an active area of research in which competing methods are available to capture what can be interpreted as a valid representation of cluster-level phenomena. Moreover, the terminology used for the cluster-level constructs in such models varies across researchers. We therefore provide an overview of used terminology and modeling approaches for cluster-level constructs measured through individual responses. We classify the constructs based on whether (a) the target of measurement is at the cluster level or at the individual level and (b) the construct requires a measurement model. Next, we discuss various two-level factor models that have been proposed for multilevel constructs that require a measurement model, and we show that the so-called doubly latent model with cross-level invariance of factor loadings is appropriate for all types of constructs that require a measurement model. We provide two illustrations using empirical data from students and organizational teams on stimulating teaching and on conflict in organizational teams, respectively.
Calcium Jacket of Left Ventricle: An Aristocracy of the Monster
Authors: Mondal Sudipta , Raj Richard R. , Harikrishnan Sivadasanpillai
Published: August 2023

Extensive myocardial dystrophic calcification is rare and indicates a poor prognosis with a risk of arrhythmia and recurrent heart failure. We present a long term survivor of extensive myocardial infarction presenting as myocardial calcification related unstable ventricular tachycardia needing an implantable cardioverter defibrillator.
Providers’ Understanding of Cancer Aetiology and Supportive Features for Indigenous Palliative Cancer Care Service Provision in Kenya
Authors: Cheboi Solomon K. , Lagat Kiprop , Nyawira Daisy , Kariuki Peris , Mutai Joseph , Nganga Wanjiru
Published: August 2023

Background

Palliative care is a fundamental component of providing people-centred health services to cancer patients. However, the primary pillars of indigenous palliative care such as provider understanding of cancer, its aetiology, and features are undocumented.

Objective

We sought to understand Traditional Health Providers (THPs) understanding of cancer aetiology, and the functional features that support indigenous palliative cancer care service provision in Kenya.

Method

The study used a mixed methods cross-sectional design. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered to 193 THPs, who self-reported to manage cancer patients. The findings were enriched and validated through member checking in 6 focus group discussions and five journey mapping in-depth interviews.

Results

Despite diversity in culture and experience among the indigenous providers in Kenya, their description of cancer etiology and their management practices and primary goal were similar. Cancer was consistently described as a deadly life-deforming disease by 61.1% of THPs (n = 118/193) and attributed to chemicals and toxins in the body 41.5% (n = 80). The indigenous palliative-care system was reported to be characterized by five tiered levels of care, diversity in expertise and experience, shared and consultative process (60%) and family involvement in medical decision (59.5%). Herbal regimen (60.1%) was found to be the cornerstone of informal palliative care blended with nutrition management 78.2% (n = 151), lifestyle changes 63.7% (n = 123) and counseling services 55.9% (n = 108). Payments for service were arbitrarily made in cash or in kind.

Conclusion

The features of indigenous palliative care services are informed by the providers' distinctive cultural terms and descriptions of cancer and cancer aetiology. Shared and consultative protocols, regimen exchange, referral to cascaded care, and caregiver involvement were all important palliative-care clues to saving and enhancing lives. The features provide context for development of indigenous palliative care framework, engagement of policy makers, and promotion of culturally-inclusive indigenous palliative care model for adoption.
Early B-cell development and B-cell maturation are impaired in patients with active hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis
Authors: Shim Jenny , Park Sunita , Venkateswaran Suresh , Kumar Deepak , Prince Chengyu , Parihar Vaunita , Maples Larkin , Waller Edmund K. , Kugathasan Subra , Briones Michael , Lee Miyoung , Henry Curtis J. , Prahalad Sampath , Chandrakasan Shanmuganathan
Published: August 2023

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is characterized by hyperinflammation and multiorgan dysfunction. Infections, including the reactivation of viruses, contribute to significant disease mortality in HLH. Although T-cell and natural killer cell–driven immune activation and dysregulation are well described, limited data exist on the status of B-cell compartment and humoral immune function in HLH. We noted marked suppression of early B-cell development in patients with active HLH. In vitro B-cell differentiation studies after exposure to HLH-defining cytokines, such as interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and tumor necrosis factor, recapitulated B-cell development arrest. Messenger RNA sequencing of human CD34+ cells exposed to IFN-γ demonstrated changes in genes and pathways affecting B-cell development and maturation. In addition, patients with active HLH exhibited a marked decrease in class-switched memory B (CSMB) cells and a decrease in bone marrow plasmablast/plasma cell compartments. The decrease in CSMB cells was associated with a decrease in circulating T follicular helper (cTfh) cells. Finally, lymph node and spleen evaluation in a patient with HLH revealed absent germinal center formation and hemophagocytosis with associated lymphopenia. Reassuringly, the frequency of CSMB and cTfh improved with the control of T-cell activation. Taken together, in patients with active HLH, these changes in B cells may affect the humoral immune response; however, further immune studies are needed to determine its clinical significance.
Tailored psychological intervention for anxiety or depression in COPD (TANDEM): a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Taylor Stephanie J.C. , Sohanpal Ratna , Steed Liz , Marshall Karen , Chan Claire , Yaziji Nahel , Barradell Amy C. , Font-Gilabert Paulino , Healey Andrew , Hooper Richard , Kelly Moira J. , Mammoliti Kristie-Marie , Priebe Stefan , Rajasekaran Arvind , Roberts C. Michael , Rowland Vickie , Singh Sally J. , Smuk Melanie , Underwood Martin , Waseem Sarah , White Patrick , Wileman Vari , Pinnock Hilary
Published: August 2023

Background

The TANDEM multicentre, pragmatic, randomised controlled trial evaluated whether a tailored psychological intervention based on a cognitive behavioural approach for people with COPD and symptoms of anxiety and/or depression improved anxiety or depression compared with usual care (control).

Methods

People with COPD and moderate to very severe airways obstruction and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale subscale scores indicating mild to moderate anxiety (HADS-A) and/or depression (HADS-D) were randomised 1.25:1 (242 intervention and 181 control). Respiratory health professionals delivered the intervention face-to-face over 6–8 weeks. Co-primary outcomes were HADS-A and HADS-D measured 6 months post-randomisation. Secondary outcomes at 6 and 12 months included: HADS-A and HADS-D (12 months), Beck Depression Inventory II, Beck Anxiety Inventory, St George's Respiratory Questionnaire, social engagement, the EuroQol instrument five-level version (EQ-5D-5L), smoking status, completion of pulmonary rehabilitation, and health and social care resource use.

Results

The intervention did not improve anxiety (HADS-A mean difference −0.60, 95% CI −1.40–0.21) or depression (HADS-D mean difference −0.66, 95% CI −1.39–0.07) at 6 months. The intervention did not improve any secondary outcomes at either time-point, nor did it influence completion of pulmonary rehabilitation or healthcare resource use. Deaths in the intervention arm (13/242; 5%) exceeded those in the control arm (3/181; 2%), but none were associated with the intervention. Health economic analysis found the intervention highly unlikely to be cost-effective.

Conclusion

This trial has shown, beyond reasonable doubt, that this cognitive behavioural intervention delivered by trained and supervised respiratory health professionals does not improve psychological comorbidity in people with advanced COPD and depression or anxiety.
Outcome of lung transplantation for adults with interstitial lung disease associated with genetic disorders of the surfactant system
Authors: Bermudez Julien , Nathan Nadia , Coiffard Benjamin , Roux Antoine , Hirschi Sandrine , Degot Tristan , Bunel Vincent , Le Pavec Jérôme , Macey Julie , Le Borgne Aurélie , Legendre Marie , Cottin Vincent , Thomas Pascal-Alexandre , Borie Raphaël , Reynaud-Gaubert Martine
Published: August 2023

Background

Interstitial lung disease associated with genetic disorders of the surfactant system is a rare entity in adults that can lead to lung transplantation. Our objective was to describe the outcome of these patients after lung transplantation.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective, multicentre study, on adults who underwent lung transplantation for such disease in the French lung transplant centres network, from 1997 to 2018.

Results

20 patients carrying mutations inSFTPA1(n=5),SFTPA2(n=7) orSFTPC(n=8) were included. Median interquartile range (IQR) age at diagnosis was 45 (40–48) years, and median (IQR) age at lung transplantation was 51 (45–54) years. Median overall survival after transplantation was 8.6 years. Two patients had a pre-transplant history of lung cancer, and two developed post-transplant lung cancer. Female gender and a body mass index <25 kg·m−2were significantly associated with a better prognosis, whereas transplantation in high emergency was associated with a worst prognosis.

Conclusions

Lung transplantation in adults with interstitial lung disease associated with genetic disorders of surfactant system may be a valid therapeutic option. Our data suggest that these patients may have a good prognosis. Immunosuppressive protocol was not changed for these patients, and close lung cancer screening is needed before and after transplantation.
Pulmonary arterial wedge pressure increase during exercise in patients diagnosed with pulmonary arterial or chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Müller Julian , Mayer Laura , Schneider Simon R. , Titz Anna , Schwarz Esther I. , Saxer Stephanie , Furian Michael , Grünig Ekkehard , Ulrich Silvia , Lichtblau Mona
Published: August 2023

Background

The course of pulmonary arterial wedge pressure (PAWP) during exercise in patients with pulmonary arterial or chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (PAH/CTEPH), further abbreviated as pulmonary vascular disease (PVD), is still unknown. The aim of the study was to describe PAWP during exercise in patients with PVD.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, right heart catheter (RHC) data including PAWP, recorded during semi-supine, stepwise cycle exercise in patients with PVD, were analysed retrospectively. We investigated PAWP changes during exercise until end-exercise.

Results

In 121 patients (59 female, 66 CTEPH, 55 PAH, 62±17 years) resting PAWP was 10.2±4.1 mmHg. Corresponding peak changes in PAWP during exercise were +2.9 mmHg (95% CI 2.1–3.7 mmHg, p<0.001). Patients ≥50 years had a significantly higher increase in PAWP during exercise compared with those <50 years (p<0.001). The PAWP/cardiac output (CO) slopes were 3.9 WU for all patients, and 1.6 WU for patients <50 years and 4.5 WU for those ≥50 years.

Conclusion

In patients with PVD, PAWP increased slightly but significantly with the onset of exercise compared to resting values. The increase in PAWP during exercise was age-dependent, with patients ≥50 years showing a rapid PAWP increase even with minimal exercise. PAWP/CO slopes >2 WU are common in patients with PVD aged ≥50 years without exceeding the PAWP of 25 mmHg during exercise.
Assessment of sedentary behaviour in individuals with COPD: how many days are necessary?
Authors: Bertoche Mariana Pereira , Furlanetto Karina Couto , Hirata Raquel Pastrello , Sartori Larissa , Schneider Lorena Paltanin , Mantoani Leandro Cruz , Brito Igor , Dala Pola Daniele Caroline , Hernandes Nidia Aparecida , Pitta Fabio
Published: August 2023

Objective

The objective of the present study was to define the minimum number of monitoring days required for the adequate cross-sectional assessment of sedentary behaviour in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, the sedentary behaviour of individuals with COPD was assessed using two physical activity monitors during awake time for seven consecutive days. Time spent per day in activities requiring ≤1.5 metabolic equivalents (METs) and in sitting, lying and sitting+lying positions was calculated taking into account the average of 7 days (as a reference in all analyses) and of all 119 possible combinations of 2­­–6 days. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and linear regression analyses were performed for all combinations.

Results

91 individuals were analysed (47 female, 66±9 years, forced expiratory volume in 1 s 50±15% predicted). For the variables time spent per day in activities ≤1.5METs and sitting, the average of any combination of at least four assessment days was sufficient to adequately reflect the average of 7 days (adjusted R2≥0.929, ICC≥0.962, p<0.0001 for all). For time spent per day lying and sitting+lying, only two assessment days were enough (adjusted R2≥0.937, ICC≥0.968, p<0.0001 for all). Results were maintained independently of patient sex, disease severity, day of the week, daylight time or daytime naps.

Conclusions

The average of 4 days of objective monitoring was sufficient to adequately reflect the results of a 1-week assessment of the main outcomes related to sedentary behaviour in individuals with moderate to very severe COPD, regardless of sex, disease severity, day of the week, daylight time and occurrence of daytime naps.
Effect of betanin synthesis on photosynthesis and tyrosine metabolism in transgenic carrot
Authors: Wang Bo , Wang Ya-Hui , Deng Yuan-Jie , Yao Quan-Hong , Xiong Ai-Sheng
Published: August 2023

Background

Betalain is a natural pigment with important nutritional value and broad application prospects. Previously, we produced betanin biosynthesis transgenic carrots via expressing optimized genes CYP76AD1S, cDOPA5GTS and DODA1S. Betanin can accumulate throughout the whole transgenic carrots. But the effects of betanin accumulation on the metabolism of transgenic plants and whether it produces unexpected effects are still unclear.

Results

The accumulation of betanin in leaves can significantly improve its antioxidant capacity and induce a decrease of chlorophyll content. Transcriptome and metabolomics analysis showed that 14.0% of genes and 33.1% of metabolites were significantly different, and metabolic pathways related to photosynthesis and tyrosine metabolism were markedly altered. Combined analysis showed that phenylpropane biosynthesis pathway significantly enriched the differentially expressed genes and significantly altered metabolites.

Conclusions

Results showed that the metabolic status was significantly altered between transgenic and non-transgenic carrots, especially the photosynthesis and tyrosine metabolism. The extra consumption of tyrosine and accumulation of betanin might be the leading causes.
The role of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria in plant drought stress responses
Authors: Chieb Maha , Gachomo Emma W.
Published: August 2023

Climate change has exacerbated the effects of abiotic stresses on plant growth and productivity. Drought is one of the most important abiotic stress factors that interfere with plant growth and development. Plant selection and breeding as well as genetic engineering methods used to improve crop drought tolerance are expensive and time consuming. Plants use a myriad of adaptative mechanisms to cope with the adverse effects of drought stress including the association with beneficial microorganisms such as plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR). Inoculation of plant roots with different PGPR species has been shown to promote drought tolerance through a variety of interconnected physiological, biochemical, molecular, nutritional, metabolic, and cellular processes, which include enhanced plant growth, root elongation, phytohormone production or inhibition, and production of volatile organic compounds. Therefore, plant colonization by PGPR is an eco-friendly agricultural method to improve plant growth and productivity. Notably, the processes regulated and enhanced by PGPR can promote plant growth as well as enhance drought tolerance. This review addresses the current knowledge on how drought stress affects plant growth and development and describes how PGPR can trigger plant drought stress responses at the physiological, morphological, and molecular levels.
Recognition of visual symptoms in stroke: a challenge to patients, bystanders, and Emergency Medical Services
Authors: Berg Kristina Parsberg , Sørensen Viktor Frederik Idin , Blomberg Stig Nikolaj Fasmer , Christensen Helle Collatz , Kruuse Christina
Published: August 2023

Background

Identification of visual symptoms as a sign of acute stroke can be challenging for both first line healthcare professionals and lay persons. Failed recognition of visual symptoms by medical dispatchers at the Emergency Medical Dispatch Center (EMDC-112) or personnel at the Out-of-Hours Health Service (OOHS) may delay stroke revascularization. We aimed to identify correct system response to visual symptoms in emergency calls.

Methods

Phone calls from patient or bystander to the EMDC-112 or OOHS, which included visual symptoms on patients later verified with stroke/Transient ischemic attack (TIA) diagnosis, were analyzed. Data were stratified according to hospitalization within and after 4.5 h from symptom onset. Descriptive and multiple logistic regression analysis were performed.

Results

Of 517 calls identified, 290 calls fulfilled inclusion criteria. Only 30% of the patients received correct visitation by the medical dispatchers and referral to the hospital by a high-priority ambulance. Correct visitation was associated with early contact (adjusted OR: 2.37, 95% CI: 1.11, 5.03), contact to the EMDC-112 (adjusted OR: 3.18, 95% CI: 1.80, 5.62), and when the medical dispatcher asked additional questions on typical stroke symptoms (adjusted OR: 6.36, 95% CI: 3.01, 13.43). No specific visual symptom was associated with stroke recognition and fast hospitalization.

Conclusions

First line healthcare professionals had significant problems in identifying visual symptoms as a sign of acute stroke and eliciting correct response. This highlights an urgent need to improve knowledge of visual symptoms in acute stroke and emphasize correct response to stroke symptoms in general.
Interrelationship between arterial hypertension, health service costs, therapeutic treatment and physical activity
Authors: Lima dos Santos Lionai , Codogno Jamile Sanches , Camilo Turi-Lynch Bruna , Araujo Monique Yndawe Castanho , Fernandes Romulo Araujo , de Oliveira Gomes Grace Angelica , Crankson Shirley , Anokye Nana
Published: August 2023

Background

Arterial hypertension is a high prevalence disease that increase healthcare costs and affects physical activity level. This study aimed to analyse the interrelationship between arterial hypertension, health service costs, therapeutic treatment, and physical activity in patients with cardiovascular diseases.

Method

Cross-sectional study that evaluated 306 patients from a hospital in Presidente Prudente-Brazil. Based on their medical diagnosis, they were classified into multiple groups to access primary care and hospital-related costs variations. Then, using data from medical records and face to face interviews, they were examined on their treatment adherence and physical activity practice. Healthcare costs were accessed using medical records. Finally, the generalised linear model was used to analyse the interrelationship between treatment adherence, physical activity, health care costs and arterial hypertension. The data were analysed with Stata/MP4 16, and a p-value of less than 5% was used to determine statistical significance.

Results

The group that adhered to the arterial hypertension treatments but were physically inactive presented higher costs with consultation (US$=24.1, 95%CI = 1.90;46,3)​​ medication (US$=56.60, 95%CI = 1.65; 111.5) and total primary health care costs (US$=71.60, 95%CI = 19.2; 123.9) even after adjusting for confounding variables, meanwhile those participants that adhered to the treatments and were physical active did not present difference in healthcare cost when compared to normotensive and physical active participants.

Conclusion

To be adherent to hypertension treatment were related to higher health care costs meanwhile been physical activity were related to lower health care costs and the combination of both showed that be adherent and physical activity represent the same cost with health than those normotensive and active emphasizing the importance of adherence and physical activity in the hypertensive treatment.
The impact of integrase inhibitors on steatosis and fibrosis biomarkers in persons with HIV naïve to antiretroviral therapy
Authors: Fernandes Sara Rodrigues , Leite Ana Rita , Lino Rita , Guimarães André Rodrigues , Pineiro Carmela , Serrão Rosário , Freitas Paula
Published: August 2023

Background

Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) has a high prevalence among persons with HIV infection. Since Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitors (INSTIs) are used worldwide and have been associated with weight gain, we must determine their effect in the development of NAFLD and Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) in these patients. The aim of this study was to explore the impact of INSTIs on variation of liver steatosis and fibrosis in the ART-naïve person with HIV, using Hepatic Steatosis Index (HSI), Fibrosis-4 Index (FIB-4), BARD score and NAFLD Fibrosis Score (NFS).

Methods

We performed a monocentric, retrospective cohort study in ART-naïve persons with HIV that initiated INSTI based regimens between December 2019 and January 2022. Data was collected at baseline, 6 and 12 months after initiation. Demographic, clinical and laboratory characteristics, hepatic steatosis, and fibrosis scores were compared between baseline and last visit at 12 months. Linear regression models were performed to analyse the associations between analytical data at baseline and hepatic scores variation during the 12 months of treatment. Models were performed unadjusted and adjusted for age and sex.

Results

99 patients were included in our study. 82% were male and median age was 36 years. We observed a significant increase in body mass index (BMI), HDL, platelet count, albumin, and creatinine and a significant decrease in AST levels. HSI showed no statistically significant differences during follow-up (p = 0.114). We observed a significant decrease in FIB-4 (p = 0.007) and NFS (p = 0.002). BARD score showed a significant increase (p = 0.006). The linear regression model demonstrated a significant negative association between baseline HIV RNA and FIB-4 change (β= -0.08, 95% CI [-0.16 to -0.00], p = 0.045), suggesting that higher HIV RNA loads at baseline were associated with a greater decrease in FIB-4.

Conclusion

INSTIs seem to have no impact on hepatic steatosis, even though they were associated with a significant increase in BMI. This might be explained by the direct effect of a dolutegravir-containing regimen and/or by the “return-to-health effect” observed with ART initiation. Furthermore, INSTIs were associated with a reduction in risk of liver fibrosis in ART-naïve persons with HIV, possibly due to their effect on viral suppression.
Everyday executive functioning in pediatric obsessive-compulsive disorder: diagnostic specificity, clinical correlations, and outcome
Authors: Rydqvist Frida , Hoff Eva , Daukantaitè Daiva , Cervin Matti
Published: August 2023

Background

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) typically onsets during childhood or adolescence and difficulties with executive functioning (EF) may be involved in its onset and maintenance. Yet, few studies have examined everyday EF difficulties in youth with OCD and no study has compared EF in youth with OCD to EF in youth with anxiety disorders, leaving the diagnostic specificity of EF unclear.

Methods

In this study, parents of treatment-seeking children and adolescents with OCD (n = 96, Mage = 13.3, SD = 2.7, 59% girls) or anxiety disorders (n = 67, Mage = 14.0, SD = 2.6, 78% girls) reported on their children’s everyday EF using the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF) measure.

Results

Compared to community youth, the two clinical groups showed moderately elevated EF deficits but did not differ significantly from each other. EF deficits were not associated with the major symptom dimensions of OCD, age of OCD symptom onset, duration of OCD symptoms, and OCD severity, and did not predict treatment outcome in OCD.

Conclusions

Compared to peers, youth with OCD show moderate difficulties with EF, but very similar difficulties are seen in youth with anxiety disorders, and it is unclear whether these difficulties are of clinical relevance. Among youth with OCD, EF difficulties were not differentially associated with the major symptom dimensions of OCD, which is inconsistent with findings from adults. Difficulties with EF did not predict treatment outcome, indicating that integrating EF modules into OCD treatment may be of limited value, although EF may be important for treatment planning in individual cases.
Characterizing longitudinal change in accelerometry-based moderate-to-vigorous physical activity in the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos and the Framingham Heart Study
Authors: Mossavar-Rahmani Yasmin , Lin Juan , Pan Stephanie , Song Rebecca J. , Xue Xiaonan , Spartano Nicole L. , Xanthakis Vanessa , Sotres-Alvarez Daniela , Marquez David X. , Daviglus Martha , Carlson Jordan A. , Parada Humberto , Evenson Kelly R. , Talavera Ana C. , Gellman Marc , Perreira Krista M. , Gallo Linda C. , Vasan Ramachandran S. , Kaplan Robert C.
Published: August 2023

Background

Physical activity promotes health and is particularly important during middle and older age for decreasing morbidity and mortality. We assessed the correlates of changes over time in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in Hispanic/Latino adults from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL: mean [SD] age 49.2 y [11.5]) and compared them to a cohort of primarily White adults from the Framingham Heart Study (FHS: mean [SD] 46.9 y [9.2]).

Methods

Between 2008 and 2019, we assessed accelerometry-based MVPA at two time points with an average follow-up of: 7.6 y, SD 1.3 for HCHS/SOL, and 7.8 y, SD 0.7 for FHS. We used multinomial logistic regression to relate socio-demographic and health behaviors with changes in compliance with 2018 US recommendations for MVPA from time 1 to time 2 (remained active or inactive; became active or inactive) across the two cohorts.

Results

In HCHS/SOL mean MVPA was 22.6 (SD, 23.8) minutes at time 1 and dropped to 16.7 (19.0) minutes at time 2. In FHS Mean MVPA was 21.7 min (SD, 17.7) at time 1 and dropped to 21.3 min (SD, 19.2) at time 2. Across both cohorts, odds of meeting MVPA guidelines over time were about 6% lower in individuals who had lower quality diets vs. higher, about half in older vs. younger adults, about three times lower in women vs. men, and 9% lower in individuals who had a higher vs. lower BMI at baseline. Cohorts differed in how age, gender, income, education, depressive symptoms, marital status and perception of general health and pain associated with changes in physical activity. High income older Hispanics/Latino adults were more likely to become inactive at the follow-up visit as were HCHS/SOL women who were retired and FHS participants who had lower levels of education and income. Higher depressive symptomology was associated with becoming active only in HCHS/SOL women. Being male and married was associated with becoming inactive in both cohorts. Higher perception of general health and lower perception of pain were associated with remaining active only in FHS adults.

Conclusions

These findings highlight potentially high-risk groups for targeted MVPA intervention.
Retraction Note: Health-related quality of life among ethnic minority residents in remote Western China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Dong Jiaxin , Li Xiaoju , Fan Rong , Yang Jielin
Published: August 2023

This article has been retracted. Please see the Retraction Notice for more detail: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-023-16559-x.
Prevention of human exposure to livestock faecal waste in the household: a scoping study of interventions conducted in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Sentamu Derrick N. , Kungu Joseph , Dione Michel , Thomas Lian F.
Published: August 2023

Background

Poorly managed animal faecal waste can result in detrimental environmental and public health implications. Limiting human exposure to animal waste through Animal inclusive Water Sanitation and Hygiene (A-WASH) strategies is imperative to improve public health in livestock keeping households but has received little attention to date. A small number of A-WASH interventions have previously been identified through a systematic review by another research team, and published in 2017. To inform intervention design with the most up-to-date information, a scoping study was conducted to map the existing evidence for A-WASH in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) emerging since the previous review.

Methods

This review followed PRISMA guidelines to identify interventions in SSA published between January 2016 to October 2022. Databases searched included PubMed, PMC Europe, CabDirect and Web of Science. Studies were eligible for inclusion if they were written in English and documented interventions limiting human contact with animal faecal material in the SSA context. Key data extracted included: the intervention itself, its target population, cost, measure of effectiveness, quantification of effect, assessment of success, acceptability and limitations. These data were synthesized into a narrative, structured around the intervention type.

Findings

Eight eligible articles were identified. Interventions to reduce human exposure to animal faecal matter were conducted in combination with ‘standard’ human-centric WASH practices. Identified interventions included the management of human-animal co-habitation, educational programs and the creation of child-safe spaces. No novel A-WASH interventions were identified in this review, beyond those identified by the review in 2017. Randomised Controlled Trials (RCTs) were used to evaluate six of the eight identified interventions, but as effect was evaluated through various measures, the ability to formally compare efficacy of interventions is lacking.

Conclusion

This study indicates that the number of A-WASH studies in SSA is increasing and the use of RCTs suggests a strong desire to create high-quality evidence within this field. There is a need for standardisation of effect measures to enable meta-analyses to be conducted to better understand intervention effectiveness. Evaluation of scalability and sustainability of interventions is still lacking in A – WASH research.