bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The experiences of visually impaired military veterans with Charles Bonnet syndrome
Authors: Dave Sonali , Jones Lee , Lee Matthew , Ditzel-Finn Lara , Castle Claire , Heinze Nikki , Potts Judith , Moosajee Mariya , Gomes Renata S. M. 
Published: November 2024

Background: Charles Bonnet syndrome (CBS) refers to the experience of visual hallucinations occurring secondary to sight loss. Although there is an increasing amount of research on this phenomenon, CBS remains a lesser-known outcome of visual impairment, with limited research into the impact on the patient. Objectives: To explore the experiences and opinions of visually impaired military veterans with CBS regarding the impact of visual hallucinations. Design: Semi-structured qualitative interviews. Methods: Forty-six telephone interviews were conducted with members of Blind Veterans UK, a charity for visually impaired ex-service men and women. One-hundred and fifteen individuals at the charity with CBS were identified and invited to a semi-structured interview (participation rate – 40%). Qualitative data was transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. Results: Four overarching themes were identified: (1) impact of CBS (2) understanding and management of CBS (3) awareness of CBS (4) recommendations. Negative impact of CBS included feelings of fear, annoyance and disruptions to daily life and quality of life. Negative appraisal of CBS was not necessarily related to negative hallucination content. Participants expressed the value of increased awareness amongst patients and health care professionals. Knowledge and understanding of CBS provided reassurance and was considered an effective strategy to mitigate the negative impact of the condition. Conclusion: Regardless of hallucination content, CBS has a substantial impact on the lives of people with visual impairment. Increased awareness and information can help to support individuals to manage their CBS more effectively. However, the findings from this study cannot be generalized to people without a military background so further research is required to understand and optimize support for military veterans and civilians with CBS.
Are depression, anxiety and loneliness associated with visual hallucinations in younger adults with Charles Bonnet syndrome?
Authors: Walker Robin , Valla Broman Caecilie , Hopkins Sam , Gould Mark , Holdstock Juliet 
Published: November 2024

Background: Charles Bonnet syndrome (CBS) refers to the presence of visual hallucinations experienced by people, without cognitive, or psychiatric deficits that are related to sight loss. This study surveyed younger adults (18–60 years) with visual impairments, to assess the impact of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and the COVID-19 lockdowns on their visual hallucinations. Objectives: To examine the association between depression, anxiety, loneliness, the COVID-19 lockdowns, and visual hallucinations in younger adults with CBS. Design: An online survey was used with an opportunistic sample of people with sight loss. Methods: A survey assessed the frequency, duration, and valence of visual hallucinations using a five-point Likert scale, and assessed anxiety, depression, and loneliness using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles) loneliness scale, respectively. Results: Twenty-nine young adults (21 female), aged 22–59 years with vision loss from a range of causes, who experience visual hallucinations, were included in the survey. The majority (76%) of participants had experienced hallucinations within the past week, with 83% stating they occurred frequently or very frequently. For 59% of participants, the hallucinations were of short duration (<2 min), but 34% experienced them continuously. Hallucinations were regarded as being unpleasant by 34% of participants, while 59% rated them as being neutral. The incidence of depression and anxiety was high in the sample (48% and 65%, respectively), and 65% experienced loneliness. Participants with scores indicating anxiety or borderline anxiety had significantly more frequent hallucinations than other participants and a similar trend was found for depression. The COVID-19 lockdowns exacerbated hallucinations in 24% of cases, but for 68% they remained unchanged. Conclusion: The study demonstrated that CBS is observed in people of all ages, with sight loss arising from a wide range of underlying causes. Depression, anxiety, and loneliness are observed in many cases of CBS. While there was some indication that high anxiety, and to some extent depression, was associated with frequent hallucinations, no other relationships were found between the psychosocial factors (depression, anxiety, and loneliness) and the frequency, duration, or valence of their visual hallucinations.
Increased exercise tolerance in humanized G6PD-deficient mice
Authors: Cendali Francesca I. , Lisk Christina , Dzieciatkowska Monika , LaCroix Ian S. , Reisz Julie A. , Harral Julie , Stephenson Daniel , Hay Ariel M. , Wartchow Eric P. , Darehshouri Anza , Dziewulska-Cronk Karolina H. , Buehler Paul W. , Norris Philip J. , Deng Xutao , Busch Michael P. , Earley Eric J. , Page Grier P. , Hansen Kirk C. , Zimring James C. , Irwin David C. , Nemkov Travis , D’Alessandro Angelo 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency affects 500 million people globally, affecting red blood cell (RBC) antioxidant pathways and increasing susceptibility to hemolysis under oxidative stress. Despite the systemic generation of reactive oxygen species during exercise, the effects of exercise on individuals with G6PD deficiency remain poorly understood This study used humanized mouse models expressing the G6PD Mediterranean variant (S188F, with 10% enzymatic activity) to investigate exercise performance and molecular outcomes. Surprisingly, despite decreased enzyme activity, G6PD-deficient mice have faster critical speed than mice expressing human canonical G6PD. After exercise, deficient mice did not exhibit differences in RBC morphology or hemolysis, but had improved cardiac function, including cardiac output, stroke volume, sarcomere length, and mitochondrial content. Proteomics analyses of cardiac and skeletal muscles (gastrocnemius, soleus) from G6PD-deficient compared with sufficient mice revealed improvements in mitochondrial function and increased protein turnover via ubiquitination, especially for mitochondrial and structural myofibrillar proteins. Mass spectrometry–based metabolomics revealed alterations in energy metabolism and fatty acid oxidation. These findings challenge the traditional assumptions regarding hemolytic risk during exercise in G6PD deficiency, suggesting a potential metabolic advantage in exercise performance for individuals carrying noncanonical G6PD variants.
Sex differences in expression of CGRP family of receptors and ligands in the rat trigeminal system
Authors: Maddahi Aida , Edvinsson Jacob C. A. , Edvinsson Lars 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) is part of the calcitonin peptide family, which includes calcitonin (CT), amylin (AMY), and adrenomedullin (ADM). CGRP and its receptor are highly present in the trigeminovascular system (TVS). Recent research suggests that other members of the calcitonin family could be feasible therapeutic targets in the treatment of migraine. The present study aims to elucidate the distribution of ADM, AMY, CT, and their receptors in the rat TVS, and to explore potential sex differences in their expression.

Methods
Trigeminal ganglia (TG) were dissected from male and female adult rats. Protein and gene expression were assessed through immunohistochemistry and RT-qPCR. Additionally, the dura mater was isolated for further investigation of protein expression and fiber localization using immunohistochemistry.

Results
Quantitative gene expression analysis revealed the presence of all genes in male and female TGs, except for calcitonin receptor (CTR). Notably, CGRP mRNA levels in TG were several folds higher than those of other genes. The receptor activity-modifying protein-1 (RAMP1) mRNA levels were significantly higher in female compared to male.
No AMY or CT immunoreactivity was observed in the TVS. In contrast, immunoreactivity for ADM, CGRP, RAMP1, CTR, and calcitonin-like receptor (CLR) were observed in the cytoplasm of TG neurons. Immunoreactive Aδ-fibers storing RAMP1, ADM and CLR were also identified. RAMP2 and RAMP3 were expressed in nucleus of TG neurons and in satellite glial cells. Furthermore, RAMP1 and CLR were co-localized with CASPR in the nodes of Ranvier located in Aδ-fibers.

Conclusions
This study provides valuable insights into the distribution of the CGRP family of peptides and their receptors in the TVS. CGRP mRNA levels in the TG were markedly higher than those of other genes, demonstrating the key role of CGRP. The co-localization of CLR and RAMP1 on Aδ-fibers with CASPR suggests a potential role for this receptor in modulating trigeminal nerve function and neuronal excitability, with implications for migraine pathophysiology. Additionally, RAMP1 mRNA levels were significantly higher in female TG compared to males, indicating sex-specific differences in gene expression. These findings underscore the need for further research into the functional significance of gender-related variations.
The role of reactive oxygen species in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2) infection-induced cell death
Authors: Xie Jiufeng , Yuan Cui , Yang Sen , Ma Zhenling , Li Wenqing , Mao Lin , Jiao Pengtao , Liu Wei 
Published: November 2024

AbstractCoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) represents the novel respiratory infectious disorder caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and is characterized by rapid spread throughout the world. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) account for cellular metabolic by-products, and excessive ROS accumulation can induce oxidative stress due to insufficient endogenous antioxidant ability. In the case of oxidative stress, ROS production exceeds the cellular antioxidant capacity, thus leading to cell death. SARS-CoV-2 can activate different cell death pathways in the context of infection in host cells, such as neutrophil extracellular trap (NET)osis, ferroptosis, apoptosis, pyroptosis, necroptosis and autophagy, which are closely related to ROS signalling and control. In this review, we comprehensively elucidated the relationship between ROS generation and the death of host cells after SARS-CoV-2 infection, which leads to the development of COVID-19, aiming to provide a reasonable basis for the existing interventions and further development of novel therapies against SARS-CoV-2.
Graphical Abstract
Should we delay leaf water potential measurements after excision? Dehydration or equilibration?
Authors: Perera-Castro Alicia V. , Puértolas Jaime , Fernández-Marín Beatriz , González-Rodríguez Águeda M. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Accurate leaf water potential (Ψw) determination is crucial in studying plant responses to water deficit. After excision, water potential decreases, even under low evaporative demand conditions, which has been recently attributed to the equilibration of pre-excision Ψw gradients across the leaf. We assessed the influence of potential re-equilibration on water potential determination by monitoring leaf Ψw and relative water content decline after excision using different storage methods.

Results
Even though leaf Ψw declined during storage under low evaporative demand conditions, this was strongly reduced when covering the leaf with a hydrophobic layer (vaseline) and explained by changes in relative water content. However, residual water loss was variable between species, possibly related to morpho-physiological leaf traits. Provided water loss was minimized during storage, pre-excision leaf transpiration rate did not affect to the magnitude of leaf Ψw decline after excision, confirming that transpiration-driven Ψw gradients have no effect on leaf Ψw determination.

Conclusions
Disequilibrium in water potentials across a transpiring leaf upon excision is dissipated very quickly, well within the elapsed time between excision and pressurization, therefore, not resulting in overestimation of leaf Ψw measured immediately after excision. When leaf storage is required, the effectiveness of a storage under low evaporative demand varied among species. Covering with a hydrophobic layer is an acceptable alternative.
Determining doses for backfill cohorts based on patient-reported outcome
Authors: Chen Xin , Zhang Jingyi , Li Bosheng , Yan Fangrong 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Incorporating backfill cohorts in phase I oncology trials is a recently developed strategy for dose optimization. However, the efficacy assessment window is long in general, causing a lag in identifying ineffective doses and more patients being backfilled to those doses. There is necessity to investigate how to use patient-reported outcomes (PRO) to determine doses for backfill cohorts.

Methods
We propose a unified Bayesian design framework, called ‘Backfill-QoL’, to utilize patient-reported quality of life (QoL) data into phase I oncology trials with backfill cohorts, including methods for trial monitoring, algorithm for dose-finding, and criteria for dose selection. Simulation studies and sensitivity analyses are conducted to evaluate the proposed Backfill-QoL design.

Results
The simulation studies demonstrate that the Backfill-QoL design is more efficient than traditional dose-expansion strategy, and fewer patients would be allocated to doses with unacceptable QoL profiles. A user-friendly Windows desktop application is developed and freely available for implementing the proposed design.

Conclusions
The Backfill-QoL design enables continuous monitoring of safety, efficacy and QoL outcomes, and the recommended phase II dose (RP2D) can be identified in a more patient-centered perspective.
DPYD genotype-guided dose personalisation for fluoropyrimidine-based chemotherapy prescribing in solid organ cancer patients in Australia: GeneScreen 5-FU study protocol
Authors: White Cassandra , Wardill Hannah , Paul Christine , Price Timothy , Karapetis Christos , Nalder Mark , Burge Matthew E. , Thomas Ann , Oldmeadow Chris , Barker Daniel , Edney Laura C. , Coller Janet , Bowen Joanne , Ostroff Cheri , Cheek Bruce , Carlson Mel , Rankmore Trumaine , Nagrial Adnan , Clarke Stephen , Chantrill Lorraine , Ackland Stephen , Scott Rodney J. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
Fluoropyrimidine (FP) chemotherapies are commonly prescribed for upper and lower gastrointestinal, breast and head and neck malignancies. Over 16,000 people with cancer require FP chemotherapies per annum in Australia. Between 10 and 40% patients experience grade 3–4 (≥ G3) toxicities that require hospital-based management ± intensive care admission. Approximately 1% of patients die secondary to FP toxicities. Prospective screening for DPYD gene variants (encoding the key enzyme for FP catabolism) can identify patients at risk of ≥ G3 toxicity and allow for dose adjustment prior to first FP exposure. Evidence supports this as a cost-effective method of improving patient safety and reducing healthcare burden internationally; however, no Australian data confirms its feasibility on a large scale.

Method
This investigator-led, single-arm study will determine large scale feasibility of prospective DPYD genotyping, confirming patient safety and cost-effectiveness within the Australian health care system. 5000 patients aged 18 years and older with solid organ cancers requiring FP chemotherapy will be consented and genotyped prior to commencing treatment, and early toxicity (within 60 days) post-FP exposure will be determined. Toxicity data for DPYD variant carriers who have dose adjustments will be compared to the wild-type cohort and historical cohorts of carriers who did not undergo genotyping prior to FP exposure, and prospective variant carriers who do not undergo dose-adjustment. Prevalence of the four standard DPYD gene variants will be confirmed in an Australian population. Additionally, health economic analysis, implementation research via semi-structured interviews of patients and clinicians, and feasibility of UGT1A1 genotyping will be conducted.

Discussion
This study will determine the prevalence of DPYD gene variant status in Australia and its impact on FP-induced toxicity among Australians with cancer. Feasibility and cost-effectiveness for Australian health care system will be estimated to support national roll-out of prospective DPYD genotyping prior to FP administration. Additionally, feasibility will be confirmed with the intention of including UGT1A1 in future pharmacogenomic panels to aid chemotherapy prescribing.

Trial registration
This trial was registered with the Australian and New Zealand Cancer Trials Registry on 13th Dec 2023, ACTRN12623001301651.
‘Please, see me’; Informal and professional support of students with relatives with addiction problems: a three-year longitudinal qualitative study
Authors: van Namen Dorine M. , Hilberink Sander R. , de Vries Hein , Nagelhout Gera E. , van Staa AnneLoes 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background and aim
Addiction problems also affect the lives of family members. This study aims to examine: (1) young adult family members’ experiences with informal and professional support in coping with the impact of relatives’ addiction problems and (2) how these experiences evolve over time.

Method
A three-year longitudinal qualitative study. Four rounds of in-depth, semi-structured individual interviews were conducted. Thirty students aged 18–30 years, participated in the study at baseline. 93% participated in at least two interviews, and 80% participated three or four times. The Stress-Strain-Information-Coping-Support model was used, and Directed Content Analysis was applied.

Findings
Five major themes were extracted from the data: (1) Informal support; (2) Educational support; (3) Healthcare support; (4) Resilience factors; and (5) Developments over time. Informal and educational support were more often described as effective than healthcare support, although the number of participants who sought healthcare support increased over time. Effective elements of support included being able to discuss their experiences with people listening without judgment or unsolicited advice and having long-term relationships of trust with people from the social environment and professionals. Participants were mainly treated with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Learning how to distinguish between accurate and inaccurate thoughts, especially about themselves, was considered effective. Body-oriented therapy was remarkably absent. Finding effective healthcare support was often a long and winding road through various therapies and therapists. Participants were not attracted to peer group interventions but needed advice on how to deal with their relatives. They also needed recognition by their relatives for harm done. This recognition was seldom given.

Conclusions
It is recommended to train educational and healthcare professionals to recognize the support needs of young people with relatives with addiction problems, to help them cope, or to refer them adequately. We also suggest broadening the scope of professional support offered to AFMs, including body-oriented and cultural interventions.
Mental health care-seeking and barriers: a cross-sectional study of an urban Latinx community
Authors: Newberry Jennifer A. , Gimenez Michelle A. , Gunturkun Fatma , Villa Erica , Maldonado Maritza , Gonzalez Dilza , Garcia Gabriel , Espinosa Patricia Rodriguez , Hedlin Haley , Kaysen Debra 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Background
The Latinx community faces an increasing amount of mental health challenges and disparities in care. While the contributing factors are complex, there are likely potential barriers related to connecting with mental health support and accessing care that can be addressed.

Methods
To investigate barriers in connecting to mental health care, we conducted a cross-sectional survey of mental health service use and barriers in an urban community with a primarily Hispanic/Latinx ethnicity using a modified random walk approach for door-to-door data collection with a two-cluster sampling frame. Survey included questions on socio-demographic, mental health status, desire and attempt to seek care, and the Barriers to Access to Care Evaluation. Shapley additive explanation (SHAP) identified impactful barriers and demographic characteristics. Our primary outcome was the number of respondents who saw a professional in the past 12 months and the key determinants that enabled their successful connection. Secondary outcomes were people with poor mental health who had wanted or tried to seek any source of mental health support.

Results
Of the 1004 respondents enrolled, 70.5% were foreign born; 63.4% were women. In the past 12 months, 23.8% of respondents wanted to connect with mental health care; 15.5% tried to connect, and only 11.7% successfully connected to mental health services. The two most cited barriers had the highest SHAP values: concerns about treatments available (65%) and financial costs (62.7%). Additional barriers with high SHAP values: being seen as weak and having no one to help them find care. Of demographic characteristics, age had the highest SHAP values.

Conclusion
In a community with a high density of Latinx immigrants, just under half of respondents wanting mental health care successfully connected. Perceived informational, financial, and stigma-related barriers impacted the likelihood to connect with mental health care. These factors should be considered when designing programs and interventions to improve mental health care access and services in the Latinx community.