bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Psychosocial stress increases testosterone in patients with borderline personality disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and healthy participants
Authors: Deuter Christian E. , Duesenberg Moritz , Hellmann-Regen Julian , Metz Sophie , Roepke Stefan , Wolf Oliver T. , Otte Christian , Wingenfeld Katja 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background
The gonadal hormone testosterone not only regulates sexual behavior but is also involved in social behavior and cognition in both sexes. Changes in testosterone secretion in response to stress have been reported. In addition, stress associated mental disorders such as borderline personality disorder (BPD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are characterized by alterations in basal testosterone metabolism. However, testosterone changes to stress have not been investigated in mental disorders such as BPD and PTSD so far.

Methods
In the study described, we investigated testosterone reactivity to an acute psychosocial stressor, the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST). Our sample consisted of young adult women with BPD (n = 28), PTSD (n = 22) or both disorders (n = 22), and healthy control (n = 51). Based on previous studies on basal testosterone secretion in these disorders, we expected the stress-associated testosterone reactivity to be higher in the BPD group and lower in the PTSD group, when compared to the healthy control group.

Results
The study could demonstrate an increase in testosterone after acute stress exposure across all groups and independent of BPD or PTSD status. Different possible explanations for the absence of a group effect are discussed.

Conclusions
From the results of this study, we conclude that stress-related changes in testosterone release are not affected by BPD or PTSD status in a female patient population. This study expands the knowledge about changes in gonadal hormones and stress reactivity in these disorders.
High blood pressure readings on in-store machines: a qualitative study of the perspective of pharmacy staff
Authors: Mostarac Ivona , Atzema Clare L. 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Objectives
Emergency department (ED) visits for high blood pressure are on the rise. Yet the majority of these patients are discharged home after their ED evaluation, particularly those who present following an elevated reading on an in-store pharmacy machine. We aimed to gain insight on the practice and referral patterns of pharmacy staff who encounter a patient with an elevated in-store blood pressure (BP) reading.

Methods
We conducted a qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with pharmacy staff (pharmacists and pharmacy technicians/assistants) from California, United States and Ontario, Canada. Interview questions were designed to examine the practice and referral patterns of pharmacy staff for patients with elevated in-store BP readings. Standard descriptive content analysis techniques were used to analyze the data and to develop themes for current practice and referral patterns.

Results
Twenty-four interviews were completed: six with pharmacy technicians/assistants and 18 with pharmacists. Canadian pharmacy staff (83%) reported being approached frequently (defined as from weekly up to multiple times per day) by patients concerned about an elevated BP reading on an in-store machine, versus 50% reported by American participants. Participant definition of an elevated BP varied, with systolic values ranging from 120 to 150 mmHg and diastolic values from 60 to 90 mmHg. Participants emphasized the need to converse with and assess their patients prior to providing advice. The most frequently reported advice was to seek referral from an outside health care provider: ED, urgent care, or a primary care practitioner. Severity of the BP reading and symptomatology were reported as determining factors for referring patients to the ED. Pharmacists (92%) reported a lack of corporate and/or governing body policy for managing patients with in-store markedly elevated BP readings.

Conclusions
Managing patients with an elevated BP reading in the community pharmacy setting is complex and not standardized. Referral to an external health care provider, including the ED, was a common theme. The development of a pharmacy referral tool/algorithm may be helpful to refer in-store patients with elevated BP readings to the most appropriate healthcare resources.
Characteristics and patterns of older adult homicides in the United States
Authors: Shawon Riffat Ara , Adhia Avanti , DeCou Christopher , Rowhani-Rahbar Ali 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background
Nearly 1800 homicides were reported in 2018 among individuals aged 60 years or older in the US. The characteristics and circumstances of these homicides are understudied. We investigated the trends of homicides over time and compared victim, perpetrator, and incident characteristics by mechanism (firearm vs. non-firearm) among adults aged 60 years or older.

Methods
We examined cross-sectional restricted-access data from the National Violent Death Reporting System from 2003 to 2017. Fatal Injury Data by CDC provided age-adjusted homicide rates. We quantitatively summarized victim, perpetrator, and incident characteristics for firearm and non-firearm homicides. We also reviewed 150 qualitative narratives to better understand the context of older adult homicides perpetrated by firearms. All data were analyzed in February 2020.

Results
Overall and firearm-specific older adult homicide rates increased between 2014 and 2017. Of the 6188 victims, 62% were male. The majority of victims (68%) were killed at home. Firearms (44%), sharp (19%) and blunt weapons (15%) were common mechanisms used in older adult homicides. The perpetrator was an intimate partner in 39% of firearm homicides and 12% of non-firearm homicides (prevalence difference = 27%; 95% CI: 25, 30%). Similarly, homicide-suicides (prevalence difference = 21%; 95% CI: 19, 22%) and multiple-victim incidents (prevalence difference = 7%; 95% CI: 5, 8%) were more common in firearm (23 and 13%, respectively) than in non-firearm (2 and 6%, respectively) homicides. Common contexts of firearm homicides were familial/intimate partner problems, robbery/burglary, argument, and illness.

Conclusions
A substantial number of older adults were killed with firearms and by their intimate partners. Further research to identify violence victimization prevention strategies in this group, especially those that limit access to firearms by potential perpetrators, is warranted.
The Feasibility of High-Intensity Interval Training in Patients with Intensive Care Unit-Acquired Weakness Syndrome Following Long-Term Invasive Ventilation
Authors: Wernhart Simon , Hedderich Jürgen , Wunderlich Svenja , Schauerte Kunigunde , Weihe Eberhard , Dellweg Dominic , Siemon Karsten 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background
Intensive care unit-acquired weakness syndrome (ICUAWS) can be a consequence of long-term mechanical ventilation. Despite recommendations of early patient mobilisation, little is known about the feasibility, safety and benefit of interval training in early rehabilitation facilities (ERF) after long-term invasive ventilation.

Methods and Results
We retrospectively analysed two established training protocols of bicycle ergometry in ERF patients after long-term (> 7 days) invasive ventilation (n = 46). Patients conducted moderate continuous (MCT, n = 24, mean age 70.3 ± 10.1 years) or high-intensity interval training (HIIT, n = 22, mean age 63.6 ± 12.6 years). The intensity of training was monitored with the BORG CR10 scale (intense phases ≥ 7/10 and moderate phases ≤ 4/10 points). The primary outcome was improvement (∆-values) of six-minute-walk-test (6 MWT), while the secondary outcomes were improvement of vital capacity (VCmax), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), maximal inspiratory pressure (PImax) and functional capabilities (functional independence assessment measure, FIM/FAM and Barthel scores) after 3 weeks of training. No adverse events were observed. There was a trend towards a greater improvement of 6 MWT in HIIT than MCT (159.5 ± 64.9 m vs. 120.4 ± 60.4 m; p = .057), despite more days of invasive ventilation (39.6 ± 16.8 days vs. 26.8 ± 16.2 days; p = .009). VCmax (∆0.5l ± 0.6 vs. ∆0.5l ± 0.3; p = .462), FEV1 (∆0.2l ± 0.3 vs. ∆0.3l ± 0.2; p = .218) PImax (∆0.8 ± 1.1 kPa vs. ∆0.7 ± 1.3pts; p = .918) and functional status (FIM/FAM: ∆29.0 ± 14.8pts vs. ∆30.9 ± 16.0pts; p = .707; Barthel: ∆28.9 ± 16.0 pts vs. ∆25.0 ± 10.5pts; p = .341) improved in HIIT and MCT.

Conclusions
We demonstrate the feasibility and safety of HIIT in the early rehabilitation of ICUAWS patients. Larger trials are necessary to find adequate dosage of HIIT in ICUAWS patients.
The practice of active patient involvement in rare disease research using ICT: experiences and lessons from the RUDY JAPAN project
Authors: Hamakawa Nao , Kogetsu Atsushi , Isono Moeko , Yamasaki Chisato , Manabe Shirou , Takeda Toshihiro , Iwamoto Kazumasa , Kubota Tomoya , Barrett Joe , Gray Nathanael , Turner Alison , Teare Harriet , Imamura Yukie , Yamamoto Beverley Anne , Kaye Jane , Hide Michihiro , Takahashi Masanori P. , Matsumura Yasushi , Javaid Muhammad Kassim , Kato Kazuto 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background
The role of patients in medical research is changing, as more emphasis is being placed on patient involvement, and patient reported outcomes are increasingly contributing to clinical decision-making. Information and communication technology provides new opportunities for patients to actively become involved in research. These trends are particularly noticeable in Europe and the US, but less obvious in Japan. The aim of this study was to investigate the practice of active involvement of patients in medical research in Japan by utilizing a digital platform, and to analyze the outcomes to clarify what specific approaches could be put into practice.

Methods
We developed the RUDY JAPAN system, an ongoing rare disease medical research platform, in collaboration with the Rare and Undiagnosed Diseases Study (RUDY) project in the UK. After 2 years of preparation, RUDY JAPAN was launched in December 2017. Skeletal muscle channelopathies were initially selected as target diseases, and hereditary angioedema was subsequently added. Several approaches for active patient involvement were designed through patient-researcher collaboration, namely the Steering Committee, questionnaire development, dynamic consent, and other communication strategies. We analyzed our practices and experiences focusing on how each approach affected and contributed to the research project.

Results
RUDY JAPAN has successfully involved patients in this research project in various ways. While not a part of the initial decision-making phase to launch the project, patients have increasingly been involved since then. A high level of patient involvement was achieved through the Steering Committee, a governance body that has made a major contribution to RUDY JAPAN, and the process of the questionnaire development. The creation of the Patient Network Forum, website and newsletter cultivated dialogue between patients and researchers. The registry itself allowed patient participation through data input and control of data usage through dynamic consent.

Conclusions
We believe the initial outcomes demonstrate the feasibility and utility of active patient involvement in Japan. The collaboration realized through RUDY JAPAN was enabled by digital technologies. It allowed busy patients and researchers to find the space to meet and work together for the Steering Committee, questionnaire development and various communication activities. While the practice of active patient involvement in Japan is still in its early stages, this research confirms its viability if the right conditions are in place. (331 words).
Estimating the prevalence of text overlap in biomedical conference abstracts
Authors: Kinney Nick , Wubah Araba , Roig Miguel , Garner Harold R. 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background
Scientists communicate progress and exchange information via publication and presentation at scientific meetings. We previously showed that text similarity analysis applied to Medline can identify and quantify plagiarism and duplicate publications in peer-reviewed biomedical journals. In the present study, we applied the same analysis to a large sample of conference abstracts.

Methods
We downloaded 144,149 abstracts from 207 national and international meetings of 63 biomedical conferences. Pairwise comparisons were made using eTBLAST: a text similarity engine. A domain expert then reviewed random samples of highly similar abstracts (1500 total) to estimate the extent of text overlap and possible plagiarism.

Results
Our main findings indicate that the vast majority of textual overlap occurred within the same meeting (2%) and between meetings of the same conference (3%), both of which were significantly higher than instances of plagiarism, which occurred in less than .5% of abstracts.

Conclusions
This analysis indicates that textual overlap in abstracts of papers presented at scientific meetings is one-tenth that of peer-reviewed publications, yet the plagiarism rate is approximately the same as previously measured in peer-reviewed publications. This latter finding underscores a need for monitoring scientific meeting submissions – as is now done when submitting manuscripts to peer-reviewed journals – to improve the integrity of scientific communications.
Production, purification, and radiolabeling of the 203Pb/212Pb theranostic pair
Authors: McNeil Brooke L. , Robertson Andrew K. H. , Fu Winnie , Yang Hua , Hoehr Cornelia , Ramogida Caterina F. , Schaffer Paul 
Published: February 2021

AbstractBackgroundLead-212 (212Pb, t1/2 = 10.6 h) and lead-203 (203Pb, t1/2 = 51.9 h) are an element-equivalent, or a matched theranostic radioisotope pair that show great potential for application in targeted radionuclide therapy (TRT) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), respectively. At TRIUMF we have produced both203Pb and212Pb using TRIUMF’s TR13 (13 MeV) and 500 MeV cyclotrons, and subsequently purified and evaluated both radioisotopes using a series of pyridine-modified DOTA analogues in comparison to the commercially available chelates DOTA (1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic acid) and TCMC (1,4,7,10-tetraaza-1,4,7,10-tetra(2-carbamoylmethyl)cyclododecane).ResultsProton irradiation (12.8 MeV) of natural and enriched thallium-203 (203Tl) targets gave203Pb saturation yields of 134 ± 25 and 483 ± 3 MBq/μA, respectively. Thorium-228 (228Th, t1/2 = 1.9 y), a by-product of232Th proton spallation on TRIUMF’s main 500 MeV beamline (beamline 1A, BL1A), was recovered to build a228Th/212Pb generator with the ability to deliver up to 9–10 MBq of212Pb daily. Both lead isotopes were purified via solid phase extraction chromatography (Pb resin), and isolated in an acetate form ([203/212Pb]Pb(OAc)2) suitable for direct radiolabeling of chelators and bioconjugates. A series of cyclen-based chelators (herein referred to as DOTA-1Py, -2Py, and -3Py) along with established chelates DOTA and TCMC were evaluated for their ability to complex both203Pb and212Pb. All chelates incorporated212Pb/203Pb efficiently, with higher radiolabeling yields observed for the212Pb-complexes.ConclusionThe production of203Pb and212Pb was established using TRIUMF 13 MeV and 500 MeV cyclotrons, respectively. Both production methods provided radiometals suitable for subsequent radiolabeling reactions using known and novel chelates. Furthermore, the novel chelate DOTA-3Py may be a good candidate for biomolecule conjugation and further theranostic212Pb/203Pb studies.
Factors associated with self-rated health among mineworkers in Zambia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Ohnishi Mayumi , Tembo Backsion , Nakao Rieko , Matsuura Emi , Fujita Wakako 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background
This study aims to examine miners’ working conditions and self-rated health status in copper mines in Zambia and to identify the conditions and factors necessary to improve the safety and health of mineworkers.

Methods
A cross-sectional study using a self-administered questionnaire was conducted anonymously among copper mineworkers in Zambia in 2015 and 2016. Five targeted mining companies among 33 were introduced by the Mineworkers’ Union of Zambia. Study participants were recruited at the waiting space for underground work, waiting rooms of company clinics/hospitals, and/or at training sessions, which were places permitted by the target companies to perform data collection via convenience sampling. Bivariate analyses (e.g., t tests, Kruskal-Wallis tests, chi-square tests, or Cochran-Armitage tests) and logistic regression analysis were used to analyze differences in demographic characteristics and to compare their working conditions, health conditions, safety management at the workplace, and training opportunities by employment status.

Results
In total, 338 responses were analyzed. Regular employees had better working conditions, including higher incomes (P = 0.001), more likely to be guaranteed sickness insurance by the company (P < 0.001), paid holidays (P = 0.094), and sick leave (P = 0.064), although the difference was not statistically significant. Mineworkers’ decreased self-rated health was determined by job category (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 0.41; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.21, 0.82; P = 0.012). Having experienced violence from the boss/manager (AOR, 0.54; 95% CI, 0.32, 0.91; P = 0.020) was negatively associated with better self-rated health in the crude odds ratio.

Conclusions
Among mineworkers in Zambia, nonunderground work and not having experienced violence from their boss/manager contributed to increased self-rated health. From the perspective of psychological safety and human security, the management of safety and the working environment, including human resource management and preventing harassment/violence, should be assured, especially for underground mineworkers.
Intra-articular Adenosine, Lidocaine and Magnesium (ALM) solution decreases postoperative joint fibrosis in an experimental knee implant model
Authors: Morris Jodie L. , Letson Hayley L. , McEwen Peter , Biros Erik , Dlaska Constantin , Hazratwala Kaushik , Wilkinson Matthew , Dobson Geoffrey P. 
Published: February 2021

AbstractBackgroundThere is currently no drug therapy to prevent arthrofibrosis following knee surgery. We aimed to determine if the anti-ischemic and anti-inflammatory drug adenosine, lidocaine and Mg2+(ALM), reduces surgery-related arthrofibrosis in a rat model of knee implant surgery.MethodsMale Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 24) were randomly divided into ALM or saline groups. The right knee of each animal was implanted with custom titanium (femur) and polyethylene (tibia) implants, and the left knee served as a non-operated control. An intra-articular ALM or saline bolus (0.1 ml) was administered at the end of surgery, and animals monitored for 4 weeks. Fibrotic changes were assessed by macroscopic examination, histopathology, and expression of key inflammatory and fibrotic markers in the joint capsule and infrapatellar fat pad (IFP).ResultsKnee swelling was evident in both groups at 4 weeks. However, range of motion was 2-fold higher in the ALM-treated knees, and differences in macroscopic pathology indicated improved healing, compared to the control group. Histologically, ALM treatment also led to significantly decreased synovitis and fibrotic pathology in the joint capsule and IFP compared to saline controls. RNA and protein expression profiles of pro-fibrotic mediators (α-SMA, TGF-β1, FGF1, PDGFA) were also significantly lower in knees from ALM-treated animals. In addition, the expression of inflammatory mediators was lower in plasma (IL-1β, IL-10) and joint tissue (NFκB, IL-1β, IL-12), 4 weeks after surgery.ConclusionWe show that intra-articular administration of a single ALM bolus significantly decreased fibrotic pathology and synovitis in an experimental model of knee implant surgery, by blunting inflammation and modulating essential genes of fibrosis. ALM has the therapeutic potential for translation into humans undergoing knee replacement surgery.
Abundance and diversity of soil invertebrate macro-fauna in different land uses at Shenkolla watershed, South Central Ethiopia
Authors: Bufebo Belayneh , Elias Eyasu , Getu Emana 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background
Land use can exert a strong influence on the abundance, diversity, and community composition of soil macro-fauna. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of four land use types on the abundance and diversity of soil invertebrate macro-fauna communities. These land uses include forest land, grazing land, crop cultivated outfields, and homestead garden fields present at Shenkolla watershed, south central Ethiopia. Monolith sampling of soil macro-fauna was done according to the standard of Tropical Soils Biology and Fertility Institute (TSBF) procedure. Five sampling points were chosen in each land use type and small monolith (25 × 25 × 30 cm) was dug out at 5-m interval along a transect with randomly positioned starting point, but perpendiculars to the slope. A total of 20 monoliths (4 treatments × 5 replications) were taken across all the land use types. Sampling of SIMF was carried out in April 2019 where soil macro-faunas are known to be more active. To evaluate the SIMF community eight parameters were measured: Shannon-Wiener index, Simpson diversity index, Pielou’s measure of evenness, Margalef’s diversity index, the Number of Occurrence Index, Relative abundance, Density (individuals per square meter) of each taxon and density of all SIMF and Bray-Curtis similarity index. The data were further analyzed using ANOVA and a general linear model to determine the variation and the influence of land use type, respectively.

Results
In general, 332 individuals, 10 orders, 12 families, and 15 species were identified, from the collected samples. There were significant differences (p < 0.05) among the four land use types for SIMF except wireworm, spiders, and millipedes. Overall abundance and diversity were lowest in the crop cultivated outfields and highest in homestead garden fields and forest land. Bray-Curtis’ similarity was highest between the sampled sites s16 and s19 with in the forest land, and lowest (2%) between sites s1 (crop cultivated out fields) and s14 (homestead garden fields).

Conclusion
The results revealed that the diversity of SIMF was positively influenced by forest land and homestead garden fields and negatively influenced in grazing land and cultivated outfields. Therefore, maintenance of a continuous litter cover at the surface and application of a wide range of organic fertilizers (farmyard manure, household refuse, and compost) is very much critical to prevent the decrease in diversity of SIMF.
Post-stroke dementia: frequency, predictors, and health impact
Authors: Al Fawal Bastawy , Ibrahim Ahmed , Abd Elhamed Mohamed 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background
Cognitive impairment is an important aspect for stroke survivors. Little data are available about the frequency and risk factors of post-stroke dementia in Egypt.

Objectives
The aim of this study is to evaluate the frequency and predictors of post-stroke dementia and its impact on outcome.

Methods
A total of 380 patients with acute stroke were included. Patients were subjected to demographic data collection, neurological examination, and assessment of vascular risk factors. Furthermore, assessment of stroke severity by Barthel Index was done. After 6 months, patients were assessed for outcome and development of post-stroke dementia.

Results
Post-stroke dementia was detected in 20.8% of patient. It was recorded more in old ages, illiterates, unmarried, unemployed, and those with recurrent stroke and with cerebral infarction (significantly with cardio-embolic).

Conclusion
Post-stroke dementia is high in Egypt, especially in those with illiteracy, atrial fibrillation, brain atrophy, severe strokes, and those presented with hemiplegia, sphincter affection, abnormal gait, and psychotic features. Assessment for post-stroke dementia should be done during follow up of stroke patients.