bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The effects of assisted reproduction technologies on metabolic health and disease†
Authors: Heber Maria Florencia , Ptak Grażyna Ewa 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
The increasing prevalence of metabolic diseases places a substantial burden on human health throughout the world. It is believed that predisposition to metabolic disease starts early in life, a period of great susceptibility to epigenetic reprogramming due to environmental insults. Assisted reproductive technologies (ART), i.e., treatments for infertility, may affect embryo development, resulting in multiple adverse health outcomes in postnatal life. The most frequently observed alteration in ART pregnancies is impaired placental nutrient transfer. Moreover, consequent intrauterine growth restriction and low birth weight followed by catch-up growth can all predict future obesity, insulin resistance, and chronic metabolic diseases. In this review, we have focused on evidence of adverse metabolic alterations associated with ART, which can contribute to the development of chronic adult-onset diseases, such as metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Due to high phenotypic plasticity, ART pregnancies can produce both offspring with adverse health outcomes, as well as healthy individuals. We further discuss the sex-specific and age-dependent metabolic alterations reflected in ART offspring, and how the degree of interference of a given ART procedure (from mild to more severe manipulation of the egg) affects the occurrence and degree of offspring alterations. Over the last few years, studies have reported signs of cardiometabolic alterations in ART offspring that are detectable at a young age but that do not appear to constitute a high risk of disease and morbidity per se. These abnormal phenotypes could be early indicators of the development of chronic diseases, including metabolic syndrome, in adulthood. The early detection of metabolic alterations could contribute to preventing the onset of disease in adulthood. Such early interventions may counteract the risk factors and improve the long-term health of the individual.
Household Debt and Monetary Policy: Revealing the Cash-Flow Channel
Authors: Flodén Martin , Kilström Matilda , Sigurdsson Jósef , Vestman Roine 
Published: December 2020

AbstractWe examine the effect of monetary policy on household spending when households are indebted and interest rates on outstanding loans are linked to short-term interest rates. Using administrative data on balance sheets and consumption expenditure of Swedish households, we reveal the cash-flow transmission channel of monetary policy. On average, indebted households reduce consumption spending by an additional 0.23–0.55 percentage points in response to a one-percentage-point increase in the policy rate, relative to a household with no debt. We show that these responses are driven by households that have some or a large share of their debt in contracts where interest rates vary with short-term interest rates, such as adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs), which implies that monetary policy shocks are quickly passed through to interest expenses.
A novel phytase from Citrobacter
gillenii: characterization and expression in Pichia pastoris (Komagataella pastoris)
Authors: Tkachenko Artur A , Kalinina Anna N , Borshchevskaya Larisa N , Sineoky Sergey P , Gordeeva Tatiana L 
Published: December 2020

ABSTRACT
The phyCg gene encoding a new phytase from Citrobacter gillenii was optimized, synthesized, cloned and expressed in Pichia pastoris. Analysis of the amino acid sequence of the enzyme showed that it belongs to the histidine acid phosphatase family. The amino acid sequence of the PhyCg phytase has the highest homology (73.49%) with a phytase sequence from Citrobacter braakii. The main characteristics for the purified recombinant phytase were established. The optimum pH and temperature were 4.5 and 50°C, respectively. The specific activity of the enzyme was 1577 U/mg. The Michaelis constant (Km) and the maximum reaction rate (Vmax) for sodium phytate were 0.185 mM and 2185 U/mg, respectively. The enzyme showed the pH and trypsin stability and had a high activity over a wide pH range.
Got mutants? How advances in chlamydial genetics have furthered the study of effector proteins
Authors: Andersen Shelby E , Bulman Lanci M , Steiert Brianna , Faris Robert , Weber Mary M 
Published: December 2020

ABSTRACT
Chlamydia trachomatis is the leading cause of infectious blindness and a sexually transmitted infection. All chlamydiae are obligate intracellular bacteria that replicate within a membrane-bound vacuole termed the inclusion. From the confines of the inclusion, the bacteria must interact with many host organelles to acquire key nutrients necessary for replication, all while promoting host cell viability and subverting host defense mechanisms. To achieve these feats, C. trachomatis delivers an arsenal of virulence factors into the eukaryotic cell via a type 3 secretion system (T3SS) that facilitates invasion, manipulation of host vesicular trafficking, subversion of host defense mechanisms and promotes bacteria egress at the conclusion of the developmental cycle. A subset of these proteins intercalate into the inclusion and are thus referred to as inclusion membrane proteins. Whereas others, referred to as conventional T3SS effectors, are released into the host cell where they localize to various eukaryotic organelles or remain in the cytosol. Here, we discuss the functions of T3SS effector proteins with a focus on how advances in chlamydial genetics have facilitated the identification and molecular characterization of these important factors.
Induction of the reactive chlorine-responsive transcription factor RclR in Escherichia coli following ingestion by neutrophils
Authors: Königstorfer Andreas , Ashby Louisa V , Bollar Gretchen E , Billiot Caitlin E , Gray Michael J , Jakob Ursula , Hampton Mark B , Winterbourn Christine C 
Published: December 2020

ABSTRACT
Neutrophils generate hypochlorous acid (HOCl) and related reactive chlorine species as part of their defence against invading microorganisms. In isolation, bacteria respond to reactive chlorine species by upregulating responses that provide defence against oxidative challenge. Key questions are whether these responses are induced when bacteria are phagocytosed by neutrophils, and whether this provides them with a survival advantage. We investigated RclR, a transcriptional activator of the rclABC operon in Escherichia coli that has been shown to be specifically activated by reactive chlorine species. We first measured induction by individual reactive chlorine species, and showed that HOCl itself activates the response, as do chloramines (products of HOCl reacting with amines) provided they are cell permeable. Strong RclR activation was seen in E. coli following phagocytosis by neutrophils, beginning within 5 min and persisting for 40 min. RclR activation was suppressed by inhibitors of NOX2 and myeloperoxidase, providing strong evidence that it was due to HOCl production in the phagosome. RclR activation demonstrates that HOCl, or a derived chloramine, enters phagocytosed bacteria in sufficient amount to induce this response. Although RclR was induced in wild-type bacteria following phagocytosis, we detected no greater sensitivity to neutrophil killing of mutants lacking genes in the rclABC operon.
Sense of Community and Quality of Life for Older Adults In Puerto Rico 2 Years After Hurricane Maria
Authors: Buckley Tommy , Burnette Denise , Fabelo Humberto , Yabar Mauricio 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Psychological sense of community plays an important role in the wellbeing of older adults, especially in cultures that revolve around community involvement and support. In 2017, Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico, deeply altering community structure and social life. This study draws on the Ecological Theory of Aging to test the proposition that older adults’ sense of community is associated with self-assessed quality of life two years later. We conducted face-to-face interviews with a non-probability sample of 154 community-dwelling adults aged 60+ in Puerto Rico. We measured sense of community with the Brief Sense of Community Scale (BSCS) (range 0-32, mean= 24.75, SD= 6.04) and quality of life (QOL) with the EUROHIS-QOL 8-item index (range 0-32, mean= 21.61, SD=5.92). We used multiple linear regression to test the association of sense of community and quality of life while controlling for relevant covariates. Higher levels of sense of community were associated with better quality of life (β=0.270, p&lt;0.001), while increased mental health symptoms (β=-0.557, p&lt;0.001) and poor self-rated health (β=2.964, SE=7.17, p&lt;0.001) were associated with lower quality of life. Findings indicate that sense of community is an important contributor to older adult’s quality of life in Puerto Rico, perhaps in part due to cultural and age-related factors. Moreover, sense of community may serve as a protective factor against adverse outcomes after large scale natural disasters. Researchers should continue to examine this association while advocating for and developing policies and programs that promote older adults' sense of community in post-disaster contexts.
They Do Their Best, but Their Best Isn’t Good Enough: How Social Housing Can Support Older Tenants Aging in Place
Authors: Sheppard Christine , Austen Andrea , Hitzig Sander 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Toronto Community Housing (TCH) is the second largest social housing landlord in North America, and is home to over 27,000 older adults, half of whom live in 83 “seniors-designated” buildings. There is inadequate and inconsistent delivery of services in these buildings, negatively impacting tenants’ ability to age in place. We conducted two half-day consultations with service providers (n=74) and tenants (n=100) to identify strategies to improve unit condition, promote stable tenancies (i.e., prevent evictions) and enhance access to health and support services for older adults living in TCH. Through facilitated discussion, participants identified their top two recommendations for each priority area and reflected on the strategies that were hardest and easiest to implement, as well as the ones that would have the most and least impact on quality of life for older tenants. Participants recognized the need for more education as a way to empower older tenants and reduce stigma associated with unit condition issues (e.g., pest problems) and arrears. More frequent touch points with tenants was also recommended as a way to identify older adults at-risk of eviction and work proactively (instead of reactively) to support them. Service providers and tenants believed that system navigators working directly in the buildings would be a key facilitator to building trust and helping older tenants access needed services. Outcomes of the have several program and policy implications for TCH, as they partner with the City of Toronto to design a new integrated service model for the seniors-designated buildings.
Change Over Time in Linguistic Acculturation: A Comparison Between Cuban and Non-Cuban Hispanic Immigrants
Authors: Chiriboga David , Park Nan Sook , Jang Yuri , Molinari Victor 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
While acculturation and its implications for mental health have received extensive attention in studies with older immigrant populations, change over time in acculturation less so. This paper examines change over a two-year period in levels of linguistic acculturation among Cuban (n = 186) and non-Cuban Hispanic (n = 116) immigrants living in Florida. Data came from the waves of the Survey of Older Floridian (SOF), conducted using a statewide sampling frame based on population densities, with a computer-assisted telephone interview strategy. Calls were initiated through random digit dialing, and a follow-up interview was added approximately two years later. Measures included six acculturation items, one dealing with the participant’s language preference for the interview itself and five items dealing with language ability and usage. Results indicated that non-Cuban Hispanics were significantly more acculturated than Cuban Hispanics, and that at least 75% of Wave 2 acculturation was accounted for by Wave 1 status. After controlling for initial levels of acculturation, those who at first interview reported more economic problems and those reporting fewer depressive symptoms were more acculturated at follow-up. It was concluded that while linguistic acculturation is relatively stable, interventions to increase acculturation have implications for mental health service utilization.
Depressive Symptoms in Older African Immigrants: A Descriptive Study
Authors: Nkimbeng Manka , Baker Zachary , Taylor Janiece , Szanton Sarah , Shippee Tetyana , Gaugler Joseph 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
In FY 2018-2019, the National Institutes of Health devoted $2,387,505,711 to projects studying depression. Before and following their arrival into the United States stressful life circumstances may render African immigrants particularly at risk for depression. The objective of this study is to provide an estimate and identify correlates of depressive symptoms in older (≥50 years) African immigrants. We performed secondary data analyses of the Older African Immigrant Health study (n = 148). Bivariate analyses evaluated associations between depressive symptoms and sociodemographic and immigration-related factors. Depressive symptoms were measured with the PHQ-8 scale and scores of ≥ 5 were considered indicative of depressive symptoms. The mean age of participants was 62 years (SD:8.2), 61% were female, 30% had less than high school education, and 58% reported having health insurance coverage. Thirty percent of the sample had depressive symptoms (PHQ-8 score of ≥ 5) but only one individual would be classified as having moderately severe or severe depression (PHQ-8 ≥15). Depressive symptoms did not differ by age, marital status, education, or income. There was a statistically significant difference in depressive symptoms by reason for migration, recruitment location, and employment status. Although only one participant would be classified as severely depressive, a large proportion of this sample had depressive symptoms. Mental health concerns were reported as a significant health problem for African immigrants visiting a community service organization in New York. More research is needed to examine the prevalence, immigration-related correlates, predictors, and health ramifications of depression in older African immigrants.
Multidimensional Profiles of Religiosity: Do They Matter for Gen-Xers’ Psychological and Familial Well-Being?
Authors: Cheng Kent Jason , Hwang Woosang , Kim Jeung Hyun , Silverstein Merril , Brown Maria 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Although researchers have suggested that religiosity is a multidimensional construct, less is known about the long-term effects of religiosity profiles on Generation X (born between 1965 and 1980) adults’ psychological and familial wellbeing over the life courses. Thus, the goal of this study is (1) to identify unobserved profiles of young-adult Gen-Xers’ religiosity based on religious attendance, religious intensity, spirituality, and religious ideology, (2) to investigate demographic factors that predict membership in these religiosity latent classes, and (3) to examine how these profiles of religiosity predict Gen-Xers’ psychological wellbeing (self-esteem, life satisfaction, and depression) and familial wellbeing (martial satisfaction, and affectual and associational solidarity toward their aging parents) in early and middle adulthood. We selected 462 Gen-Xers from the Longitudinal Study of Generation in the 2005 (mean age = 30.25) and the 2016 waves (mean age = 41.25). In terms of data analysis, the three-step latent class analysis was conducted. We identified four religiosity profiles among young-adult Gen-Xers: strongly religious, weakly religious, literalists but not religious, religious but not literalists. Less educated single Gen-Xers were more likely to be in the strongly religious class, and less likely to be in other classes. Gen-Xers in the strongly religious class reported high scores of psychological and familial wellbeing than those in other religiosity classes. Given that the religiosity of the U.S. population has declined substantially over the past few decades, our findings indicate that religiosity is an important resource for Gen-X adults’ psychological and familial wellbeing.
Enhancing Dementia Caregivers’ Emotional Coping in an Intergenerational Expressive Arts Based Therapy Program
Authors: Carden Keisha , Allen Rebecca , Ramos Katherine , Potts Daniel , Ivey Keisha 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Dementia caregivers often experience elevated levels of stress and are at increased risk for psychological disorders. Recent research has implicated emotional avoidance, psychological inflexibility, and related processes in the development and maintenance of psychopathology. Addressing these processes is essential for improving caregiver mental health. This pilot study examined changes in emotional avoidance, psychological inflexibility, and anticipatory grief among familial caregivers of individuals with dementia enrolled in an intergenerational expressive arts program (Bringing Art to Life). Caregivers were an average age of 63.32 (11 NHW, 8 AA; 13 Women, 6 Men). On average, caregivers’ emotional avoidance and psychological inflexibility (M = 19.63, SE = 2.16) decreased significantly after participating in the program (M = 15.06, SE = 1.80). This difference, -4.57, BCa 95% CI [1.82, 7.13], was significant, t(15) = 3.81, p = .002, and represented a medium-sized effect, d = 0.70. Overall experience of anticipatory grief (M = 51.88, SE = 3.26) also decreased (M = 48.00, SE = 2.79). More specifically, caregivers’ reported sadness and loneliness (M = 17.63, SE = 1.37) decreased significantly (M = 14.5, SE = 0.95), BCa 95% CI [1.25, 5.00], t (15) = 3.21, p = 006, and represented a medium-sized effect, d = 0.64. These findings illuminate novel ways in which interventions might both target underpinnings of the caregiver stress process and improve the dyadic relationship. Specific intervention elements are explored and recommendations are made for future intervention development and implementation as well as measurement based outcome tracking.
The Influence of Social Roles on the Well-Being of Older Caregivers: Social Isolation as a Potential Mediator
Authors: Baik Sol 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Engagement in productive roles has been associated with better health in later life. According to identity accumulation theory, more social roles help individuals be more socially integrated, leading to enhanced psychological well-being by diminishing the risk of focusing their energy into a single role. However, less is known about the mechanisms behind the relationship between productive roles and mental health of older caregivers. The aims of this study are to examine: (1) the association between productive social roles and psychological well-being for caregivers and non-caregivers, and (2) the mediating effect of social isolation on this relationship. The study analyzed 3,951 community-dwelling Medicare beneficiaries ages 65 or above from Rounds 1 to 3 of the National Health and Aging Trends Study (210 caregivers, 3,741 non-caregivers). Multiple-group analysis for structural equation modeling was conducted to compare caregivers to non-caregivers. For both caregivers and non-caregivers, having a volunteer role increased well-being, while paid employment was not significantly associated with well-being. Social isolation mediated neither employee nor volunteer role with well-being for both caregivers and non-caregivers. Assuming that volunteering for others without monetary compensation brings meaning in life, this finding supports the provision of services (e.g., respite care) that could supplement caregiving time, allowing caregivers to have more freedom to use the time in such community-engaging roles. Even though self-rated health was controlled, there is a chance that healthier individuals engage in productive roles. Thus, reciprocal relationships between productive roles and health should be considered in future investigations.
Regional Brain Volumes Associated With Depression in the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center Uniform Data Set
Authors: Burke Shanna , Li Tan , Grudzien Adrienne , Barnes Christopher , Hanson Kevin , DeKosky Steven 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Depression has been associated with greater risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and existing research has identified structural differences in brain regions in depressed subjects compared to healthy samples, but results have been heterogeneous. We sought to determine the effect of depression on regional brain volumes by cognitive and APOE e4 status. Secondary analysis of the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center (NACC) Uniform Data Set was conducted using complete MRI data from 1,371 participants (mean age: 70.5; SD: 11.7). Multiple linear regression was used to estimate the adjusted effect of depression (via the Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire) on regional brain volumes through measurement of 30 structural MRIs. Depression in the prior two years was associated with lower total brain, cerebrum,, and gray matter volumes and greater total brain white matter hyperintensities (p&lt;.05). Greater volumes were also observed in all ventricular volume measures. Lower mean volumes were observed in six additional frontal lobe and parietal lobe cortical regions. Alternately, depression antecedent to the past 2 years correlated only with occipital lobe gray matter volumes (right, left, total). Our findings suggest that depression in the prior two years is associated with atrophy across multiple brain regions and related ventricular enlargement, even after controlling for intracranial volume and demographic covariates. The duration of depression influences results, however, as depression prior to 2 years before assessment was correlated with significantly fewer and different regional brain volume changes.
The Who and When of Worry: The Fading Impact of Gender on Worry and Anxiety Severity Among Older Adults
Authors: Granier Katie , Ingram Rebecca , Segal Daniel 
Published: December 2020

Abstract
Introduction. This study examined the influence of age and gender on diverse worry constructs and overall anxiety among younger (age 18-30) and older (age 65+) adults. Methods. 411 participants (311 younger, 100 older adults; 77.1% female) completed the PSWQ, BMWS, WDQ, and GAS online. Results. Among a series of 2x2 between-subjects ANOVAs, significant interaction effects between age and gender were found among all worry and anxiety measures. Specifically, there was a significant interaction effect on worry severity as measured by the PSWQ (F[1, 393]=4.28, p&lt;.05), the WDQ (F[1, 397]=8.42, p&lt;.01) and the BMWS (F[1, 396]=10.41, p&lt;.01). Gender had a larger impact on worry among younger adults than older, though both age groups showed similar patterns of women reporting greater worry than men. Though both younger and older adults showed a gender difference in worry severity, this difference was mitigated by late life. There was also an interaction effect on anxiety (GAS total) in that younger women reported greater anxiety than younger men but older adults reported similar anxiety across genders, F(1, 384)=9.78, p&lt;.01. Simple main effects analysis showed that younger women scored higher than older women on all measures of worry and anxiety, whereas younger men scored higher than older men on the PSWQ and WDQ but not the BMWS or GAS. Discussion. Consistent with previous literature, women reported greater worry and anxiety than men. However, this difference was mitigated and even extinguished among some measures in older adults. Possible explanations are discussed.