bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Oral status and homebound status: A 6‐year bidirectional exploratory prospective cohort study
Authors: Abbas Hazem , Aida Jun , Kiuchi Sakura , Kondo Katsunori , Osaka Ken 
Published: October 2021

AbstractObjectivesLittle is known about the association between oral status and homebound status, and there is a possibility of a bidirectional relationship between them. In this exploratory prospective cohort study, we examined the association between four oral status measurements and being homebound bidirectionally.MethodsWe used 2010–2016 panel data gathered from the Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study. All functionally independent participants aged 65 years or older (n = 26,579) were included in this study. Multiple imputation and Poisson regression were used for analyses. We adjusted for age, sex, education, comorbidity, and depressive symptoms.ResultsIn the fully adjusted model, the prevalence ratio (PR) of being homebound at follow‐up was 1.42 for having <20 remaining teeth, 1.28 for having chewing difficulty, 0.99 for having choking experience, and 0.94 for having dry mouth at baseline. Reversely, being homebound at baseline predicted having chewing difficulty at follow‐up (PR = 1.17), while no significant association was demonstrated with having <20 teeth (PR = 1.00), choking experience (PR = 1.06), and dry mouth (PR = 1.02).ConclusionChewing difficulty and having <20 remaining teeth predicted homebound status after 6 years. Reversely, homebound status at baseline only predicted having chewing difficulty at follow‐up. These findings may help to determine the oral frailty assessment measures for older people.
A European survey of management approaches in chronic urticaria in children: EAACI pediatric urticaria taskforce
Authors: Tsabouri Sophia , Arasi Stefania , Beken Burcin , Church Martin K. , Alvaro‐Lozano Montserrat , Caffarelli Carlo , Flohr Carsten , Janmohamed Sherief R. , Konstantinou George N. , Lau Susanne , Lefevre Sebastien , Mortz Charlotte G. , Pajno Giovanni , Pite Helena , Rutkowski Krzysztof , Staubach Petra , Van der Poel Lauri‐Ann , Zuberbier Torsten , Leslie Tabi A. 
Published: October 2021

AbstractBackgroundAlthough well described in adults, there are scarce and heterogeneous data on the diagnosis and management of chronic urticaria (CU) in children (0–18 years) throughout Europe. Our aim was to explore country differences and identify the extent to which the EAACI/GA²LEN/EDF/WAO guideline recommendations for pediatric urticaria are implemented.MethodsThe EAACI Task Force for pediatric CU disseminated an online clinical survey among EAACI pediatric section members. Members were asked to answer 35 multiple choice questions on current practices in their respective centers.ResultsThe survey was sent to 2,773 physicians of whom 358 (13.8%) responded, mainly pediatric allergists (80%) and pediatricians (49.7%), working in 69 countries. For diagnosis, Southern European countries used significantly more routine tests (eg, autoimmune testing, allergological tests, and parasitic investigation) than Northern European countries. Most respondents (60.3%) used a 2nd‐generation antihistamine as first‐line treatment of whom 64.8% updosed as a second line. Omalizumab was used as a second‐line treatment by 1.7% and third line by 20.7% of respondents. Most clinicians (65%) follow EAACI/WAO/GA2LEN/EDF guidelines when diagnosing CU, and only 7.3% follow no specific guidelines. Some clinicians prefer to follow national guidelines (18.4%, mainly Northern European) or the AAAAI practice parameter (1.7%).ConclusionsEven though most members of the Pediatric Section of EAACI are familiar with the EAACI/WAO/GA2LEN/EDF guidelines, a significant number do not follow them. Also, the large variation in diagnosis and treatment strengthens the need to re‐evaluate, update, and standardize guidelines on the diagnosis and management of CU in children.
Turn Up the Lights, Leave them On and Shine them All Around—Numerical Simulations Point the Way to more Efficient Use of Far‐UVC Lights for the Inactivation of Airborne Coronavirus
Authors: Wood Kenneth , Wood Andrew , Peñaloza Camilo , Eadie Ewan 
Published: October 2021

AbstractIt has been demonstrated in laboratory environments that ultraviolet‐C (UVC) light is effective at inactivating airborne viruses. However, due to multiple parameters, it cannot be assumed that the air inside a room will be efficiently disinfected by commercial germicidal ultraviolet (GUV) systems. This research utilizes numerical simulations of airflow, viral spread, inactivation by UVC and removal by mechanical ventilation in a typical classroom. The viral load in the classroom is compared for conventional upper‐room GUV and the emerging “Far‐UVC.” In our simulated environment, GUV is shown to be effective in both well and poorly ventilated rooms, with greatest benefit in the latter. At current exposure limits, 18 commercial Far‐UVC systems were as effective at reducing viral load as a single upper‐room GUV. Improvements in Far‐UVC irradiation distribution and recently proposed increases to exposure limits would dramatically increase the efficacy of Far‐UVC devices. Modifications to current Far‐UVC devices, which would improve their real‐world efficacy, could be implemented now without requiring legislative change. The prospect of increased safety limits coupled with our suggested technological modifications could usher in a new era of safe and rapid whole room air disinfection in occupied indoor spaces.
Associations of depressive symptoms and perceived social support with addictive use of social media among elderly people in Turkey
Authors: Özbek Melih Gökçek , Karaş Hakan 
Published: October 2021

AbstractBackgroundThe aim of this study was to investigate the relationship of addictive use of social media (AUSM) with depressive symptoms, perceived social support and demographic variables among people aged 65 years and older.MethodsPeople aged 65 years and older who use social media constituted the study sample. The data were obtained from social networking sites via Google survey link. Bergen social media addiction scale (BSMAS) for determining AUSM, Multidimensional Scale of Social Support for determining social support, Geriatric Depression Scale to identify depressive symptoms and sociodemographic data form were administered to the participants.ResultsThe mean age of the sample was 68.86 ± 2.0 years. AUSM showed significant differences depending on gender, marital status, economic status, educational level, settlement, occupation, and time spent in social media (P = 0.00). AUSM had correlations with both sub‐dimensions of perceived social support and depressive symptoms (P < 0.01). In the regression analysis, it was found that the depressive symptoms, social support from family (P = 0.00) and from a significant other (P = 0.001) had significant effects on AUSM.ConclusionsWhen evaluating elderly individuals with depressive symptoms, it is important to evaluate these individuals in terms of social media addiction. Interventions to improve social support systems, especially for older people with little perceived social support can help prevent the development of AUSM.
Heterogeneity in returns to agricultural technologies with incomplete diffusion: Evidence from Ghana
Authors: Mohammed Sadick , Abdulai Awudu 
Published: October 2021

AbstractIn this study, we employ a dynamic treatment effect approach to analyze heterogeneity in returns to farmers at different stages of adoption of a newly introduced inoculant technology, using a recent survey data of 600 soybean farmers from northern Ghana. Although farmers differ in their returns to adoption of new technologies, many empirical studies often fail to account for this heterogeneity. The empirical results reveal that farmers who are at advanced stages of adoption appear to, on average, more than double their yields and farm net returns, suggesting that the inoculant technology may be a game changer in the fight against extreme poverty in the region, where poverty is endemic and crop yields are persistently below the average potential yield target. Our findings further reveal that extension services as well as efficient input and output markets are key to the adoption process, by influencing knowledge acquisition, adoption, and continued adoption. Our findings also show significant impact heterogeneity at each adoption stage, with the long‐term benefits of the inoculant technology outweighing its short‐term benefits.
3,5‐Diiodothyronine protects against cardiac ischaemia–reperfusion injury in male rats
Authors: Louzada Ruy Andrade , Padron Alvaro Souto , Marques‐Neto Silvio Rodrigues , Maciel Leonardo , Werneck‐de‐Castro João Pedro , Ferreira Andrea Claudia Freitas , Nascimento Jose Hamilton Matheus , Carvalho Denise Pires 
Published: October 2021

New Findings
What is the central question of this study?
3,5‐Diiodothyronine (3,5‐T2) administration increases resting metabolic rate, prevents or treats liver steatosis in rodent models, and ameliorates insulin resistance: what are its effects on cardiac electrical and contractile properties and autonomic regulation?
What is the main finding and its importance?
Chronic 3,5‐T2 administration has no adverse effects on cardiac function. Remarkably, 3,5‐T2 improves the autonomous control of the rat heart and protects against ischaemia–reperfusion injury.
AbstractThe use of 3,5,3′‐triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) to treat metabolic diseases has been hindered by potential adverse effects on liver, lipid metabolism and cardiac electrical properties. It is recognized that 3,5‐diiodothyronine (3,5‐T2) administration increases resting metabolic rate, prevents or treats liver steatosis in rodent models and ameliorates insulin resistance, suggesting 3,5‐T2 as a potential therapeutic tool. However, a comprehensive assessment of cardiac electrical and contractile properties has not been made so far. Three‐month‐old Wistar rats were daily administered vehicle, 3,5‐T2 or 3,5‐T2+T4 and no signs of atrial or ventricular arrhythmia were detected in non‐anaesthetized rats during 90 days. Cardiac function was preserved as heart rate, left ventricle diameter and shortening fraction in 3,5‐T2‐treated rats compared to vehicle and 3,5‐T2+T4 groups. Power spectral analysis indicated an amelioration of the heart rate variability only in 3,5‐T2‐treated rats. An increased baroreflex sensitivity at rest was observed in both 3,5‐T2‐treated groups. Finally, 3,5‐T2 Langendorff‐perfused hearts presented a significant recovery of left ventricular function and remarkably smaller infarction area after ischaemia–reperfusion injury. In conclusion, chronic 3,5‐T2 administration ameliorates tonic cardiac autonomic control and confers cardioprotection against ischaemia–reperfusion injury in healthy male rats.
Deficit in knee extension strength following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction is explained by a reduced neural drive to the vasti muscles
Authors: Nuccio Stefano , Del Vecchio Alessandro , Casolo Andrea , Labanca Luciana , Rocchi Jacopo Emanuele , Felici Francesco , Macaluso Andrea , Mariani Pier Paolo , Falla Deborah , Farina Dario , Sbriccoli Paola 
Published: October 2021

AbstractThe persistence of quadriceps weakness represents a major concern following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). The underlying adaptations occurring in the activity of spinal motoneurons are still unexplored. This study examined the discharge patterns of large populations of motor units (MUs) in the vastus lateralis (VL) and vastus medialis muscles following ACLR. Nine ACLR individuals and 10 controls performed unilateral trapezoidal contractions of the knee extensor muscles at 35%, 50% and 70% of the maximal voluntary isometric force (MVIF). High‐density surface electromyography (HDsEMG) was used to record the myoelectrical activity of the vasti muscles in both limbs. HDsEMG signals were decomposed with a convolutive blind source separation method and MU properties were extracted and compared between sides and groups. The ACLR group showed a lower MVIF on the reconstructed side compared to the contralateral side (28.1%; P < 0.001). This force deficit was accompanied by reduced MU discharge rates (∼21%; P < 0.05), lower absolute MU recruitment and derecruitment thresholds (∼22% and ∼22.5%, respectively; P < 0.05) and lower input–output gain of motoneurons (27.3%; P = 0.009). Deficits in MU discharge rates of the VL and in absolute recruitment and derecruitment thresholds of both vasti MUs were associated with deficits in MVIF (P < 0.05). A strong between‐side correlation was found for MU discharge rates of the VL of ACLR individuals (P < 0.01). There were no significant between‐group differences (P > 0.05). These results indicate that mid‐ to long‐term strength deficits following ACLR may be attributable to a reduced neural drive to vasti muscles, with potential changes in excitatory and inhibitory synaptic inputs.
imageKey points
Impaired expression and control of knee extension forces is common after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction and is related to high risk of a second injury.
To provide novel insights into the neural basis of this impairment, the discharge patterns of motor units in the vastus lateralis and vastus medialis were investigated during voluntary force contractions.
There was lower knee extensor strength on the reconstructed side with respect to the contralateral side, which was explained by deficits in motor unit discharge rate and an altered motoneuronal input–output gain. Insufficient excitatory inputs to motoneurons and increased inhibitory afferent signals potentially contributed to these alterations.
These results further our understanding of the neural underpinnings of quadriceps weakness following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction and can help to develop effective rehabilitation protocols to regain muscle strength and reduce the risk of a second injury.
Phenotypic and Genotypic Characterisation of Clinical Isolates of Nosocomial Infections
Authors: Korotetskiy I. S. , Jumagaziyeva A. B. , Shilov S. V. , Kuznetsova Т. V. , Iskakbayeva Z. А. , Myrzabayeva A. N. , Korotetskaya N.V. , Ilin A. I. , Reva O. N. 
Published: October 2021

The study focuses on identification and characterization of clinical isolates of nosocomial infections with an aim to create a Bank of model microorganisms for further study of mechanisms and prospects of clinical use of novel medicines causing a reversion susceptibility to antibiotics in drug resistant pathogens.
Clinical samples of nosocomial infections were collected from phthisiological hospitals in Almaty. Clinical isolates were characterized by morpho-cultural, tinctorial, physiological and biochemical properties and also by susceptibility to antibiotics. Our studies showed that the isolates are characterized by an increased ability to form biofilms that significantly complicates the therapy and prevention of these outbreaks. Moreover, isolates were characterized by varying degrees of susceptibility to antimicrobial drugs. The strains of Citrobacter were resistant to azithromycin, which is considered as a reserve drug. This fact raises a concern about the circulation and the spread in hospitals of microorganisms resistant to the latest generation of antibiotics.
Obtained genome-scale contigs were used for taxonomic affiliation of the isolates and for identification of genetic determinants of antibiotic resistance. The search for genetic determinants of drug resistance in the obtained genome sequences confirmed the resistance to some antibiotics obtained by phenotypic methods.
Whole genome sequences were obtained for 4 clinical isolates identified as Citrobacter koseri SCAID URN1-2019, Citrobacter freundii SCAID PHRX1-2019, Escherichia coli SCAID URN1-2019 and Streptococcus pneumoniae SCAID PHRX1-2019. The genomes were deposited in the NCBI database under accession numbers CP052059, CP052058, CP052057, and CP052060.
Isolation of Bacillus Strains with Keratinolitic Activity
Authors: Aktayeva S. , Baltin K. , Khassenov B. 
Published: October 2021

Environmental safety and economic feasibility determine the search for new ways of processing waste in poultry farms. Most of this waste is down and feathers, which are 90% β-keratin. Feathers can be a valuable source of amino acids and peptones when properly processed. The most effective is enzymatic treatment of feather keratin. The search for new strains producing keratinolytic enzymes seems to be a promising direction. On the territory of the poultry farm, 4 strains were isolated from the places of accumulation of feathers. They are able to use chicken feathers as their sole source of organic matter. Based on morphological, genomic, and proteomic analyzes, the isolated strains were identified as Bacillus sp. It was found that the strains secrete proteolytic enzymes that hydrolyze collagen, casein, β-keratin and do not hydrolyze bovine serum albumin. Feather hydrolysis experiments showed that the Bacillus sp. A5.3 possesses maximum keratinolytic activity, and on the second day, the destruction of the second order barbs is observed. The keratinase activity of the strain on azokeratin after an hour of incubation on feather medium was 27.4 U/ml. The optimal conditions for the complex of secreted proteolytic enzymes are pH 7.0-8.0 and temperature 35-40 °C. The isolated Bacillus sp. A5.3 strain is a promising source of proteases and keratinases.
Demographic, lifestyle and comorbid risk factors for all-cause mortality in a Danish cohort of middle-aged adults with incident asthma
Authors: Tupper Oliver Djurhuus , Andersen Zorana Jovanovic , Ulrik Charlotte Suppli 
Published: October 2021

ObjectiveWe aimed to identify factors associated with all-cause mortality in adults with incident asthma.Design and settingCross-sectional cohort study, in the metropolitan areas of Copenhagen and Aarhus, Denmark.ParticipantsAdults aged 50–64 years enrolled in the Danish Diet, Cancer, and Health cohort were followed up from baseline (1993–1997) in the National Patients Registry for first-time admissions for asthma and vital status. We defined incident asthma as at least one first-time hospital admission with asthma as the primary registered diagnosis between baseline and end of follow-up (2013) in participants without previously known asthma. Among the cohort comprising 57 053 individuals, we identified 785 adults (aged 50—64) with incident asthma, of whom 76 died during follow-up.Primary and secondary outcome measuresBaseline reported socioeconomic and lifestyle traits, and comorbidities associated with all-cause mortality.ResultsSelf-reported leisure-time physical activity was associated with a substantial reduction in risk with an HR of 0.53 (95% CI 0.33 to 0.85). Being male, single and having a diagnosis of hypertension or diabetes were associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality with an HR of 1.83 (95% CI 1.14 to 2.38), 2.16 (95% CI 2.06 to 4.40), 2.47 (95% CI 1.54 to 3.95) and of 2.42 (95% CI 0.96 to 6.11), respectively.ConclusionsThis long-term study of adults with hospital contacts for incident asthma revealed that self-reported leisure-time physical activity is associated with an approximately 50% reduction in all-cause mortality. In contrast, both hypertension and diabetes were associated with a higher risk of mortality.
Understanding quality of contraceptive services from women’s perspectives in Gujarat, India: a focus group study
Authors: Holt Kelsey , Uttekar Bella Vasant , Reed Reiley , Adams Madeline , Kanchan Lakhwani , Langer Ana , Barge Sandhya 
Published: October 2021

ObjectivesUnderstanding quality of contraceptive care from clients’ perspectives is critical to ensuring acceptable and non-harmful services, yet little qualitative research has been dedicated to this topic. India’s history of using incentives to promote contraceptive use, combined with reports of unsafe conditions in sterilisation camps, make a focus on quality important. The study objective was to understand women’s experiences with and preferences for contraceptive counselling and care in the public sector in India.DesignQualitative study using eight focus group discussions (FGDs). FGDs were thematically analysed using a framework approach.SettingRural and urban areas in one district in Gujarat.Participants31 sterilisation and 42 reversible contraceptive users who were married and represented different backgrounds. Inclusion criteria were: (1) female, (2) at least 18 years and (3) receipt of contraception services in the last 6 months from public health services.ResultsProviders motivate married women to use contraception and guide women to specific methods based on how many children they have. Participants found this common practice acceptable. Participants also discussed the lack of counselling about reversible and permanent options and expressed a need for more information on side effects of reversible methods. There were mixed opinions about whether compensation received for accepting long-term methods affects contraceptive decision making. While many women were satisfied with their experiences, we identified minor themes related to provider coercion towards provider-controlled methods and disrespectful and abusive treatment during sterilisation care, both of which require concerted efforts to address systemic factors enabling such experiences.ConclusionsFindings illuminate opportunities for quality improvement as we identified several gaps between how women experience contraceptive care and their preferences, and with ideals of quality and rights frameworks. Findings informed adaptation of the Quality of Contraceptive Counselling Scale for India, and have implications for centring quality and rights in global efforts.
Assessing the effectiveness and implementation of a chronic disease self-management programme in faith-based organisations in Barbados: protocol for a cluster randomised parallel trial
Authors: Sobers Natasha P , Hambleton Ian Richard , Hassan Saria , Anderson Simon George , Brathwaite-Graham Lisa , Lewis Kia , Ferguson Trevor S 
Published: October 2021

IntroductionIn the COVID-19 environment of reduced patient interaction with the healthcare system, evidenced-based self-care of chronic disease is vital. We will evaluate the effect of an online chronic disease self-management programme (CDSMP) plus medication adherence tools on systolic blood pressure (SBP) (primary aim) and, seek to understand the barriers and facilitators to implementation of this modified CDSMP in faith-based organisations (FBOs) (secondary aim).MethodsWe will conduct an unblinded cluster randomised trial in FBOs throughout Barbados. Eligibility: Persons ages 35–70 years; a previous diagnosis of hypertension or currently on antihypertensive therapy and the occurrence of two or more blood pressure readings above 130 mm Hg (systolic) or 80 mm Hg (diastolic) on the day of recruitment. Persons not known to have hypertension but who have two or more blood pressure readings at or above 130 mm Hg (systolic) or 80 mm Hg (diastolic) on two recruitment days at least 1 week apart will also be eligible. The unit of randomisation is a church cluster which consists of 7–9 churches. We will perform block randomisation to assign 24 clusters to intervention or control. The intervention has three components: modified CDSMP workshops, distribution of medication pill boxes and use of social media (WhatsApp V.2.0) to encourage medication adherence. Controls will receive one didactic lecture only. We will determine the mean changes in SBP levels for the intervention group versus controls and compare differences in outcomes 6 months’ post intervention using mixed effects regression models.Ethics and disseminationThis project has received ethical approval from the Institutional Review Board of the University of the West Indies in Barbados. Dissemination will use peer-reviewed publications, policy briefs to government and guidelines to leaders of FBOs. We aim to increase the proportion of patients with controlled hypertension and inform implementation of self-management programmes in small populations.Trail registration numberNCT04437966