bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Influencing factors of supernormal vascular aging in Chinese population
Authors: Tao Boni , Li Yun , Wang Cun , Luo Xiaoyan , Chen Shuohua , Wang Guodong , Yang Peng , Hou Liying , Cui Liufu , Wu Shouling 
Published: December 2021

Objectives:
Previous studies have analysed the epidemic characteristics of supernormal vascular aging (SUPERNOVA), and found that SUPERNOVA were significantly associated with lower risk of cardiovascular disease. However, the influencing factors of SUPERNOVA are still unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the characteristics and influencing factors of SUPERNOVA.

Methods:
A total of 42 196 participants of the Kailuan Study were enrolled in the study. SUPERNOVA was defined as the lowest 2.5% of the age-quintile brachial–ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV), early vascular aging was defined as the highest 2.5% of the age-quintile baPWV. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was applied to investigate the influencing factors of SUPERNOVA.

Results:
The population with SUPERNOVA was mostly women, nonsmokers, nondrinkers, and those with higher education. They had lower levels of cardiovascular disease risk factors and healthier lifestyles. The results of logistics regression showed that the influencing factors of SUPERNOVA include age, sex, hypertension, diabetes, resting heart rate, hypersensitive C-reactive protein, and uric acid. However, the effects of these factors were different across age groups. We also observed that in addition to the unalterable factors (age and sex), only resting heart rate above 80 bpm (OR = 0.396, 95% CI: 0.231–0.681) and SBP (OR = 0.945, 95% CI: 0.932–0.958) were significantly associated with odds of SUPERNOVA in participants without cardiovascular risk factors.

Conclusion:
This study investigated the characteristics of the population with SUPERNOVA and the factors influencing it, which provided a basis for different populations to take preventive measures to slow down the process of vascular aging.
Carotid–femoral pulse wave velocity acquisition methods and their associations with cardiovascular risk factors and subclinical biomarkers of vascular health
Authors: Aizawa Kunihiko , Gates Phillip E. , Mawson David M. , Elyas Salim , Casanova Francesco , Gooding Kim M. , Adingupu Damilola D. , Strain W David , Shore Angela C. 
Published: December 2021

Background:
Different methods to measure carotid–femoral pulse wave velocity (CFPWV) may affect the measurements obtained and influence the association between CFPWV, cardiovascular risk factors and biomarkers of subclinical vascular health. The estimation of distance between the carotid and femoral artery measurement sites (the arterial path length) is particularly problematic.

Method:
We determined if CFPWV and equation-based estimates of CFPWV were influenced by arterial path length and if this affected the association of CFPWV with cardiovascular risk factors and subclinical vascular biomarkers. The CFPWV derived from the measurement of surface distance (CFPWV-D), arterial path length formula (CFPWV-F), and estimated CFPWV (ePWV) were obtained from 489 older adults (67.2 ± 8.8 years). Macrovascular [carotid artery: lumen diameter (LD), inter-adventitial diameter (IAD), intima–media thickness (IMT) and total plaque area (TPA)] and microvascular [reactive hyperaemia index and urinary albumin-creatinine ratio (UACR)] biomarkers were also measured.

Results:
CFPWV-D was significantly greater than CFPWV-F [9.6 (8.0–11.2) vs. 8.9 (7.6–10.5) m/s, P < 0.001], because of estimated path length being longer in CFPWV-D than CFPWV-F (495.4 ± 44.8 vs. 465.3 ± 20.6 mm, P < 0.001). ePWV was significantly greater than both CFPWV-F and CFPWV-D [11.0 (10.0–12.2) m/s, P < 0.001]. The three CFPWV methods were similarly associated with LD, IAD, IMT, TPA and UACR but not with cardiovascular risk factors.

Conclusion:
Different methods to measure CFPWV affect the derived measurement values and the association with cardiovascular risk factors but not the association with subclinical biomarkers of vascular health. These hitherto unreported observations are important considerations in experimental design, data interpretation and of particular importance, comparison between studies where CFPWV is measured.
Clozapine Once-Daily Versus Divided Dosing Regimen
Authors: Kitagawa Kohei , So Ryuhei , Nomura Nobuyuki , Tsukahara Masaru , Misawa Fuminari , Kodama Masafumi , Uchida Hiroyuki , Bies Robert , Straubinger Thomas , Banker Christopher , Mizuno Yuya , Mimura Masaru , Takeuchi Hiroyoshi 
Published: December 2021

Abstract

Objective
Clozapine is generally recommended to be prescribed in a divided dosing regimen based on its relatively short plasma half-life. However, there has been little evidence to support the superiority of divided dosing of clozapine over once-daily dosing. To our knowledge, there have been no studies examining differences in actual plasma concentrations or adverse effects between the 2 dosing strategies of clozapine. We aimed to compare actual plasma concentrations of clozapine between once-daily and divided dosing regimens, and to examine the relationships of these regimens with psychiatric symptoms and adverse effects of clozapine.

Methods
We analyzed data from 108 participants of a previous study conducted in 2 hospitals in Japan. A population pharmacokinetic model was used to estimate the peak and trough plasma concentrations of clozapine based on actual plasma concentrations. We evaluated psychiatric symptoms with the Brief Evaluation of Psychosis Symptom Domains and adverse effects of clozapine with the Glasgow Antipsychotic Side-effects Scale for Clozapine.

Results
The estimated peak and trough plasma concentrations of clozapine did not differ significantly between once-daily and divided dosing regimens. There were no significant differences in psychiatric symptoms except for depression/anxiety or subjective adverse effects of clozapine between the 2 dosing strategies.

Conclusions
Our findings tentatively support the feasibility and clinical utility of once-daily dosing of clozapine in clinical practice. Further studies are needed to replicate these findings and determine causality between dosing strategies and clinical outcomes.
Benefits and risks of apps for patients
Authors: Ahn David T. 
Published: December 2021

Purpose of review
As smartphones have become deeply integrated into our daily lives, diabetes apps have emerged as valuable tools for people living with diabetes (PWD's). Whether as standalone apps or companion apps to diabetes devices such as glucose meters or insulin pumps, they aim to help patients better manage their diabetes. However, with almost a half million health apps available, it is important to have a framework for understanding their benefits and disadvantages.

Recent findings
2020 was the first year that every insulin pump and continuous glucose monitor manufacturer in the United States offered a smartphone companion app for their flagship products. These companion apps enabled cloud-based data synchronization, which in turn proved to be extremely timely as the COVID-19 pandemic shifted many diabetes clinic appointments to the telemedicine format. The American Diabetes Association and European Association for the Study of Diabetes Diabetes Technology Working Group recently published a consensus report highlighting the current state of diabetes digital app technology.

Summary
While diabetes apps offer unique conveniences and advantages for PWD's, it is equally important to fully understand their potential pitfalls to better inform all diabetes stakeholders: patients, healthcare professionals, regulatory agencies, researchers, and policy makers.
Updates in childhood Sjogren's syndrome
Authors: Wright Tracey B. 
Published: December 2021

Purpose of review
Childhood Sjogren's syndrome (cSS) is a rare, chronic autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation of the exocrine glands. cSS is underrecognized because of differences in clinical presentation compared with adults. Until recently, publications describing clinical manifestations in cSS were limited to case reports and case series with small numbers of patients. Diagnostic studies to assess glandular symptoms in adults, are less commonly obtained in children.

Recent findings
Recent cohort studies describe presenting diagnostic clinical features in large populations of cSS and demonstrate how current classification criteria, used in adults, are not applicable to children. Recurrent parotitis is the consistent predominant manifestation that is inversely correlated with age. Novel salivary biomarkers and salivary gland ultrasonography are important objective measure, which may improve diagnosis and disease monitoring. Standardized treatment recommendations are needed.

Summary
Findings from large cohort studies provide a framework for the future development of diagnostic criteria for cSS. Such criteria should incorporate objective measures that are easily obtained in children. Future research to improve understanding of the application of novel biomarkers and imaging and developing consensus on treatment recommendations is needed.
Socioeconomic Status and Cognitive Function in Children With HIV: Evidence From the HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders in Zambia (HANDZ) Study
Authors: Mbewe Esau G. , Kabundula Pelekelo P. , Mwanza-Kabaghe Sylvia , Buda Alexandra , Adams Heather R. , Schneider Colleen , Potchen Michael J. , Mweemba Milimo , Mathews Manoj , Menon J. Anitha , Wang Bo , Baseler Travis , Paciorkowski Alex , Birbeck Gretchen L. , Bearden David R. 
Published: December 2021

Background:
Multiple previous studies have identified a detrimental effect of pediatric HIV on cognitive function. Socioeconomic status (SES) is one of the strongest predictors of cognitive performance and may affect the relationship between HIV and cognition.

Methods:
As part of the ongoing HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorders in Zambia (HANDZ) study, a prospective cohort study, we recruited 208 participants with HIV and 208 HIV-exposed uninfected controls, all aged 8–17 years. A standardized questionnaire was administered to assess SES, and all participants had comprehensive neuropsychological testing. An NPZ8 score was derived as a summary measure of cognitive function. Logistic regression and linear regression were used to model the relationship between SES and cognitive function, and mediation analysis was used to identify specific pathways by which SES may affect cognition.

Results:
Children with HIV performed significantly worse on a composite measure of cognitive function (NPZ8 score −0.19 vs. 0.22, P < 0.001) and were more likely to have cognitive impairment (33% vs. 19%, P = 0.001). Higher SES was associated with reduced risk of cognitive impairment (odds ratio 0.8, 95% confidence interval: 0.75–0.92, P < 0.001) in both groups, with similar effects in children with HIV and HIV-exposed uninfected groups. SES was more strongly correlated with NPZ8 score in children with HIV than in uninfected controls (Pearson's R 0.39 vs. 0.28), but predicted NPZ8 in both groups. Mediation analysis suggested that the effect of SES on cognition was most strongly mediated through malnutrition.

Conclusions:
Cognitive function is strongly correlated with SES in children with HIV, suggesting a synergistic effect of HIV and poverty on cognitive function.
Three-Dimensional Geometric Morphometry of Facial Soft Tissue Changes After Bilateral Sagittal Split Ramus Osteotomy
Authors: Al Bougha Safieh , Nakano Hiroyuki , Yasuda Kousuke , Suzuki Kei , Yamada Tomohiro , Takahashi Ichiro , Ueno Takaaki , Mori Yoshihide 
Published: December 2021

Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the performance of geometric morphometry (GM) to assess the changes in facial soft tissue after orthognathic surgery. Subjects were 27 patients (skeletal class III) who underwent bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy and 27 volunteers as a control group. Computed tomography images of each patient were obtained before surgery (T0) and 6 months after surgery (T1). Computed tomography images of 27 volunteers (skeletal class I) were also obtained as a control group. Using a three-dimensional (3D) modeling software, 3D models were created and exported to a 3D surface analyzing software for geometric morphometry and principal component (PC) analysis. Significant differences in facial soft tissue were found in the first and second of 15 PC. The first PC represented variation in the lower facial height, and the second PC represented variation in the anterior-posterior position of the chin. Comparing the pre- and post-operative images, they illustrated that lower facial height was decreased, and the chin and lower lip moved posteriorly. Geometric morphometry showed to be a successful tool to isolate surgery-related changes from interindividual morphological variations.
Vineibacter terrae gen. nov., sp. nov., an ammonium-assimilating and nitrate-reducing bacterium isolated from vineyard soil
Authors: Lin Shih-Yao , Hameed Asif , Tsai Chia-Fang , Young Chiu-Chung 
Published: December 2021

A polyphasic taxonomic approach was used to characterize a Gram-stain-negative bacterium, designated strain CC-CFT640T, isolated from vineyard soil sampled in Taiwan. Cells of strain CC-CFT640T were aerobic, non-motile, nitrate-reducing rods. Test results were positive for catalase, oxidase and proteinase activities. Optimal growth occurred at 30 °С and pH 7. Strain CC-CFT640T showed highest 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity to members of the genus

Enhydrobacter

(90.0 %, n=1) followed by

Hypericibacter

(89.4–90.0 %, n=2),

Reyranella

(88.8–89.8 %, n=5) and

Nitrospirillum

(89.2–89.4 %, n=2), and formed a distinct phyletic lineage distantly associated with the clade that predominately accommodated Reynerella species. The DNA G+C composition of the genome (2.1 Mb) was 67.9 mol%. Genes involved in the reduction of nitrate to nitrite, nitric oxide and nitrous oxide were found. In addition, genes encoding dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonia, ammonium transport and ammonium assimilation were also detected. Average nucleotide identity values were 73.3 % (n=1), 74.0–74.6 % (n=2), 67.5–68.3 % (n=2) when compared within the type strains of the genera

Enhydrobacter

,

Reyranella

and

Niveispirillum

, respectively. The dominant cellular fatty acids (>5 %) included C16 : 0, iso-C17 : 1
ω10c, C19 : 0 cyclo ω8c, C18 : 1 2-OH and C18 : 1
ω7c/C18 : 1
ω6c. The polar lipid profile consisted of diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, three unidentified aminolipids, three unidentified phospholipids and an unidentified aminophospholipid. The major respiratory quinone was ubiquinone 10 and the major polyamine was spermidine. Based on its distinct phylogenetic, phenotypic and chemotaxonomic traits together with results of comparative 16S rRNA gene sequencing, digital DNA–DNA hybridization, average nucleotide identity and phylogenomic placement, strain CC-CFT640T is considered to represent a novel genus and species of the family

Rhodospirillaceae

, for which the name Vineibacter terrae gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is CC-CFT640T (=BCRC 81219T=JCM 33507T).
An Open One-Step RT-qPCR for SARS-CoV-2 detection
Authors: Cerda Ariel , Rivera Maira , Armijo Grace , Ibarra-Henriquez Catalina , Reyes Javiera , Blázquez-Sánchez Paula , Avilés Javiera , Arce Aníbal , Seguel Aldo , Brown Alexander J. , Vásquez Yesseny , Martín Marcelo Cortez-San , Cubillos Francisco A. , García Patricia , Ferres Marcela , Ramírez-Sarmiento César A. , Federici Fernán , Gutiérrez Rodrigo A. 
Published: December 2021

AbstractThe COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in millions of deaths globally, and while several diagnostic systems were proposed, real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) remains the gold standard. However, diagnostic reagents, including enzymes used in RT-PCR, are subject to centralized production models and intellectual property restrictions, which present a challenge for less developed countries. With the aim of generating a standardized One-Step open RT-qPCR protocol to detect SARS-CoV-2 RNA in clinical samples, we purified and tested recombinant enzymes and a non-proprietary buffer. The protocol utilized M-MLV RT and Taq DNA pol enzymes to perform a Taqman probe-based assay. Synthetic RNA samples were used to validate the One-Step RT-qPCR components, and the kit showed comparable sensitivity to approved commercial kits. The One-Step RT-qPCR was then tested on clinical samples and demonstrated similar performance to commercial kits in terms of positive and negative calls. This study represents a proof of concept for an open approach to developing diagnostic kits for viral infections and diseases, which could provide a cost-effective and accessible solution for less developed countries.
Public attitudes towards the use of novel technologies in their future healthcare: A UK survey
Authors: Sauchelli Sarah , Pickles Tim , Voinescu Alexandra , Choi Heungjae , Sherlock Ben , Zhang Jingjing , Colyer Steffi , Grant Sabrina , Sundari Sethu , Lasseter Gemma 
Published: December 2021

AbstractBackgroundInnovation in healthcare technologies can result in more convenient and effective treatment that is less costly, but a persistent challenge to widespread adoption in health and social care is end user acceptability. The purpose of this study was to capture UK public opinions and attitudes to novel healthcare technologies (NHTs), and to better understand the factors that contribute to acceptance and future use.MethodsAn online survey was distributed to the UK public between April and May 2020. Respondents received brief information about four novel healthcare technologies (NHTs) in development: a laser-based tool for early diagnosis of osteoarthritis, a virtual reality tool to support diabetes self-management, a non-invasive continuous glucose monitor using microwave signals, a mobile app for patient reported monitoring of rheumatoid arthritis. They were queried on their general familiarity and attitudes to technology, and their willingness to accept each NHT in their future care. Responses were analysed using summary statistics and content analysis.ResultsKnowledge about NHTs was diverse, with respondents being more aware about the health applications of mobile apps (66%), followed by laser-based technology (63.8%), microwave signalling (28%), and virtual reality (18.3%). Increasing age and the presence of a self-reported medical condition favoured acceptability for some NHTs, whereas self-reported understanding of how the NHT works resulted in elevated acceptance scores across all NHTs presented. Common contributors to hesitancy were safety and risks from use. Respondents wanted more information and evidence to help inform their decisions, ideally provided verbally by a general practitioner or health professional. Other concerns, such as privacy, were NHT-specific but equally important in decision-making.ConclusionsEarly insight into the knowledge and preconceptions of the public about NHTs in development can assist their design and prospectively mitigate obstacles to acceptance and adoption.
The DIAMONDS intervention to support self-management of type 2 diabetes in people with severe mental illness: study protocol for a single-group feasibility study
Authors: Brown Jennifer V E , Ajjan Ramzi , Alderson Sarah , Böhnke Jan R , Carswell Claire , Doherty Patrick , Double Keith , Gilbody Simon , Hadjiconstantinou Michelle , Hewitt Catherine , Holt Richard I G , Jacobs Rowena , Johnson Vicki , Kellar Ian , Osborn David , Parrott Steve , Shiers David , Taylor Johanna , Troughton Jacqui , Watson Judith , Siddiqi Najma , Coventry Peter A 
Published: December 2021

AbstractIntroductionThe DIAMONDS programme aims to evaluate a novel supported diabetes self-management intervention for people with severe mental illness (the “DIAMONDS intervention”). The purpose of this study is to test the feasibility of intervention delivery and data collection procedures to inform a definitive randomised controlled trial (RCT).MethodsAdults aged 18 years or over with a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes and severe mental illness (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or bipolar disorder) will be eligible for inclusion. Individuals with other types of diabetes or non-psychotic mental illness and those lacking capacity to consent will not be eligible. Participants will be recruited from NHS mental health trusts and general practices across the North of England. All participants will receive the DIAMONDS intervention: weekly one-to-one sessions with a trained facilitator (“DIAMONDS Coach”) to support goal setting, action planning, and diabetes education; ongoing self-management supported by a paper-based workbook and optional digital application (app); and monthly peer-support group sessions with other participants. The primary outcomes are: 1. Recruitment rate, measured as proportion of the recruitment target (N=30) achieved at 5 months from start of recruitment, 2. Attrition measured as the proportion of missing outcomes data at the end of the recruitment period (5 months from start of recruitment) for physiological and self-reported data items, 3. Intervention delivery rate recorded as the proportion of planned sessions delivered (measured by the number of completed intervention session logs per participant within 15 weeks of the first intervention session). Secondary outcomes include completeness of data collection at baseline and of process evaluation data at follow-up as well as the feasibility and acceptability of the intervention and of wearing a blinded continuous glucose monitoring device. An intervention fidelity framework will also be developed. Recruitment started in July 2021. The study was prospectively registered:ISRCTN15328700(12thMarch 2021).DiscussionThe results of this feasibility study will inform the refinement of the content and delivery of the DIAMONDS intervention, as well as research procedures, including recruitment and data collection, in preparation for the main DIAMONDS RCT.