bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Chemical adherence testing in the clinical management of hypertension: a scoping review
Authors: Rabbitt Louise , Curneen James , Dennedy Michael Conall , Molloy Gerard J. 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundDespite growing use, questions remain surrounding the utility, acceptability and feasibility of chemical adherence testing (CAT) as part of hypertension management in clinical practice.ObjectivesThis scoping review aimed to (i) identify and summarise studies using CAT in hypertension management, and (ii) describe and critically evaluate how CAT is currently being used in the clinical management of hypertension.Eligibility criteriaPeer-reviewed and published studies in English, reporting original research in any setting, with any study design, were included. Search concepts included hypertension, medication adherence, CAT, and their synonyms.Sources of evidenceSearches were carried out using Ovid Medline, EMBASE, and PsycInfo (EBSCO), alongside manual searching of reference lists. Using Covidence software, we screened titles and abstracts, followed by full-text articles. Data from the included articles were tabulated and summarised.ResultsOf the 618 studies identified, 48 were included. The studies cover diverse clinical settings, and were mostly observational in design. 7 studies reporting adherence analyses within clinical trials for hypertension therapies. The use of theoretical frameworks to guide reporting was rare, and there was considerable variation in key terminology and definitions, most notably in the definition of adherence.ConclusionThe current body of evidence demonstrates considerable variability in the approach to implementing CAT for hypertension management in clinical practice, and a paucity of randomised controlled trials to evaluate its impact. Future research could (i) adopt a cohesive theoretical framework including clear operational definitions to standardise the approach to this important topic; (ii) further explore the impact of CAT on clinical outcomes using RCTs.
Utilizing the apical-out enteroids in vitro model to investigate intestinal glucose transport, barrier function, oxidative stress, and inflammatory responses in broiler chickens
Authors: Mann Peter , Liu Jundi , Yu Liang-en , Wolfenden Ross , Li Yihang 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionConventional 2D intestinal epithelial cell lines have been widely used in investigating intestinal functions, yet with limitations in recapitulating the in vivo gut physiology of chickens. A recently established chicken enteroid model with apical-out nature and the presence of leukocyte components represents intestinal mucosal functions. The objectives of this study were to 1) evaluate basic gut nutrient transport and barrier functions in this model and 2) identify the model’s effectiveness in studying inflammation and oxidative stress responses.MethodsEnteroids were generated from individual villus units isolated from the small intestine of Cobb500 broiler embryos. Enteroid viability, morphology, and epithelial cell markers were monitored; barrier function was evaluated based on the permeability to fluorescein isothiocyanate–dextran (FD4) with or without EDTA and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenges; nutrient transport was evaluated by fluorescence-labeled glucose (2NBD-G) with or without transporter blockade; the oxidative status was indicated by reactive oxygen species (ROS). Inflammatory and oxidative challenges were induced by LPS and menadione treatment, respectively. Selected marker gene expressions, including tight junction proteins (CLDN-1, CLDN-2, ZO-1, and OCCL), epithelial cell markers (Lgr-5, LYZ, and MUC-2), cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, TNF-α, and INF-γ), and antioxidant enzymes (Nrf-2, catalase, and SOD), were determined by using RT-qPCR. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA among treatment groups.ResultsEnteroid cell activity was stable from day (d) 2 to d 6 and declined at d 7. Epithelial cell marker and cytokine expressions were stable from d 4 to d 6. FD4 permeability was increased after the EDTA treatment (P ≤ 0.05). Transporter-mediated 2NBD-G absorption was observed, which was reduced with glucose transporter blockade (P ≤ 0.05). Enteroids showed classic responses to LPS challenges, including upregulated gene expressions of IL-1β and IL-6, downregulated gene expressions of ZO-1 and OCCL, and increased FD4 permeability (P ≤ 0.05). Enteroids showed increased ROS generation (P ≤ 0.05) in response to oxidative stress.DiscussionIn conclusion, this apical-out enteroid model is a stable alternative in vitro model that exhibits intestinal barrier, nutrient transport, oxidation, and inflammation functions. With this enteroid model, we developed two challenge protocols for evaluating intestinal functions under oxidative stress and inflammation conditions.
Ionomic and proteomic changes highlight the effect of silicon supply on the nodules functioning of Trifolium incarnatum L.
Authors: Coquerel Raphaël , Arkoun Mustapha , Trouverie Jacques , Bernay Benoit , Laîné Philippe , Etienne Philippe 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionNumerous studies have reported the beneficial effects of silicon (Si) in alleviating biotic or abiotic stresses in many plant species. However, the role of Si in Fabaceae facing environmental stress is poorly documented. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of Si on physiological traits and nodulation efficiency in Trifolium incarnatum L.MethodsSi was supplied (1.7 mM in the form of Na2SiO3) plants inoculated with Rhizobium leguminosarum bv trifolii and plant physiological traits and nodule ionomic and molecular traits were monitored over 25 days.ResultsSi supply promoted shoot biomass, the quantity of both Si and N in roots and shoots, and the number, biomass and density of nodules and their nitrogenase abundance which contribute to better dinitrogen (N2) fixation. Ionomic analysis of nodules revealed that Si supply increased the amount of several macroelements (potassium, phosphorus and sulfur) and microelements (copper, zinc and molybdenum) known to improve nodulation efficiency and N2 fixation. Finally, comparative proteomic analysis (+Si versus -Si) of nodules highlighted that Si modulated the proteome of both symbionts with 989 and 212 differentially accumulated proteins (DAPs) in the infected host root cells and their symbiont bacteria, respectively.DiscussionAmong the DAPs, the roles of those involved in nodulation and N2 fixation are discussed. For the first time, this study provides new insights into the effects of Si on both nodular partners and paves the way for a better understanding of the impact of Si on improving nodule function, and more specifically, on the nodules’ N2-fixing capacity.
RNA editing-induced structural and functional adaptations of NAD9 in Triticum aestivum under drought stress
Authors: Mohamed Nermin G. , Ramadan Ahmed M. , Amer Marwa , Morsy Yasser , Mohamed Rasha A. , Said Osama A. M. , Alnufaei Afnan A. , Ibrahim Mona I M. , Hassanein Sameh E. , Eissa Hala F. 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionMitochondria are essential organelles in eukaryotic cells, producing ATP through the electron transport chain to supply energy for cellular activities. Beyond energy production, mitochondria play crucial roles in cellular signaling, stress responses, and the regulation of reactive oxygen species. In plants, mitochondria are one of the keys to responding to environmental stresses which can significantly affect crop productivity, particularly in crops like wheat. RNA editing, a post-transcriptional RNA modification process in mitochondria, is linked to regulating these stress responses.MethodsThis study explores RNA editing patterns in the nad9 gene of wheat drought-tolerant (Giza168) and drought-sensitive (Gemmiza10) wheat cultivars under drought stress to understand plant adaptation mechanisms. RNA-seq data for these cultivars were analyzed using CLC Genomic Workbench to identify RNA editing sites in the nad9 gene, examining subsequent amino acid changes and predicting secondary structure modifications. These RNA editing sites were validated using qRT-PCR on drought-treated seedlings at 0, 2, and 12 hours post-treatment. Protein models were generated using AlphaFold, with functional predictions and structure verification conducted using various bioinformatics tools to investigate the effect of RNA editing on protein level.ResultsThe results showed significant RNA editing events, especially C-to-T conversions, in the nad9 gene across different drought exposure times. Giza168 had 22 editing sites, while Gemmiza10 had 19, with several showing significant differences between control and stress conditions. RNA editing influenced the NAD9 protein's secondary structure, particularly beta sheets, and 3D modeling highlighted the structural impacts of these edits. The N-terminal region of NAD9 contained important regulatory motifs, suggesting a complex regulatory environment.DiscussionThis study reveals key editing sites that differ between drought-tolerant and sensitive wheat cultivars, impacting NAD9 protein structures and highlighting the role of RNA editing in enhancing drought resilience. Additionally, the study suggests potential regulatory mechanisms, including phosphorylation and ubiquitination that influence mitochondrial stability and function.
Gender differences in internet gaming among university students: a discriminant analysis
Authors: Gisbert-Pérez Júlia , Martí-Vilar Manuel , Merino-Soto Cesar , Chans Guillermo M. , Badenes-Ribera Laura 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionResearch on gaming and gaming habits has predominantly focused on younger populations, particularly males. The main objective of this study was to analyze gender-based differences in gamer profiles, considering variables related to gaming habits and the gaming community.MethodsA total of 180 Spanish university students currently engaged in video gaming (M = 21.51 years, SD = 3.09, 57.4% male) participated in the study by completing an online questionnaire addressing gaming characteristics such as the age of onset, gaming hours, motives of gaming, and perceived toxicity in the video gaming community.ResultsThe results revealed statistically significant gender differences in the age of gaming initiation, weekly gaming hours, community toxicity, and several gaming motivations, including customization, cognitive challenge, violent gratification, and social interaction. Linear discriminant analysis identified that higher scores in the age of initiation and customization, along with lower scores in violent gratification and community toxicity, formed the combination of predictor variables that most strongly distinguished between genders.ConclusionUnderstanding these gender differences is essential for capturing current gaming trends and addressing the needs of diverse gamers. Finally, the potential clinical implications of these findings are discussed.
Validation of the Brief Index of Sexual Functioning for women and men (BISF-W and BISF-M) in an Italian sample
Authors: Panzeri Marta , Ronconi Lucia , Fontanesi Lilybeth 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionThe Brief Index of Sexual Functioning for Women (BISF-W) is an international 4-factors tool assessing qualitative and quantitative aspects of sexual experiences in women, both in clinical and experimental settings. The present research aims at validating an Italian version of the BISF-W, to develop a BISF version for men (BISF-M) to fill the gap in the existing sexual function evaluation tools in Italy and to analyze gender and age groups differences in the BISF factors.MethodsThe research included 6,355 women, aged from 18 to 65 (M = 34.94, SD = 10.52) and 2,207 men, aged from 18 to 80 (M = 38.25, SD = 13.67), who completed the BISF-W and BISF-M. The Quality of Marriage Index (QMI) was administrated to both samples for testing divergent validity, while Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) were administered for testing convergent validity. Correlation analysis, MANOVA between gender and age and Confirmatory Factor Analysis were conducted.ResultsThe CFAs confirmed that the proposed 4-factor model (Dyadic, Solitaire and Anal Sexuality, and Sexual Difficulties) is suitable both for the BISF-W and the BISF-M, demonstrated strong psychometric properties for assessing sexual functioning in both genders, with dyadic sexuality being the most important factor. MANOVA analysis showed significative differences in the factors’ scores, according to gender and age.DiscussionThe BISF-W and the BISF-M are promising tools to address sexual functioning in individuals and couples, both in clinical and non-clinical settings. Gender and age differences are discussed regarding the potential use of BISF in the therapeutic context.
Effects of COVID-19 pandemic on psychiatric and psychological consultation-liaison contacts in a general hospital in North-East of Italy: a retrospective study
Authors: Prina Eleonora , Marquis Alice , Tedeschi Federico , Rabbi Laura , Salazzari Damiano , Ballarin Mario , Purgato Marianna , Ostuzzi Giovanni , Donisi Valeria , Perlini Cinzia , Rimondini Michela , Del Piccolo Lidia , Amaddeo Francesco 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic has prompted significant changes in healthcare, particularly affecting psychiatric and psychological Consultation-Liaison (CL) services in general hospital settings.AimTo assess the effects of COVID-19-related restrictions on utilization of psychiatric and psychological CL services in Northeast Italy during 2020, and to compare it to the use of services in the previous year (2019).MethodsThe study collected data on psychiatric and psychological consultations in 2019 and 2020 from a hospital database. It categorizes consultations by type of patient (inpatient or outpatient) and referral source (hospital wards, general practitioners, other specialists). Pandemic-related restrictions were classified as “lockdown,” “intermediate restrictions,” and “no or reduced restrictions” based on the Covid Stringency Index (CSI). Poisson regression models were employed to analyze the data.ResultsThe findings reveal a significant 28% increase in the number of psychiatric and psychological consultations in 2020. Consultations for outpatients increased by 51%, while those for inpatients decreased by 11%. However, the lockdown and intermediate restriction phases were deemed responsible of a decrease of 42.9% and 19.5% in consultations respectively.DiscussionThis study highlights the persistent psychological burden during the COVID-19 pandemic, alongside reduced CL services due to lockdown measures. Integrating telemedicine into these types of services becomes imperative for meeting patient needs during restrictions. These findings can inform policies and practices to improve effective mental health care delivery during and beyond pandemics. Future research should explore the impact of pandemic-related restrictions on mental healthcare across settings and clinical factors affecting service accessibility.
Women with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder experiences of suicidal thoughts and behaviours: a mixed methods study
Authors: Brown Danielle , Smith Debbie M. , Osborn Elizabeth , Wittkowski Anja 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundWomen with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) experience debilitating psychological symptoms during each luteal phase of their menstrual cycle. Although women’s increased risk of suicidal thoughts and attempts to end their lives has been highlighted, little is as yet known about women’s own narratives. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the prevalence and the experiences of self-harm, suicidal thoughts and attempts in women with PMDD.MethodIn this mixed methods study, women’s experiences of living with PMDD were captured via an online survey exploring risk and via semi-structured interviews with questions informed by survey results. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and reflexive thematic analysis.ResultsOver 3,600 women completed the survey between January and March 2020 and 14 women were subsequently interviewed in 2022. The survey revealed that just under half of women had deliberately harmed themselves during a PMDD crisis, 82% had suicidal thoughts on one or more occasions during their luteal phase, and 26% of women had attempted to end their own life. Three main themes, which related to suicidal ideation in the context of PMDD, were generated from the interview data: 1) personal relationships and social connections affected by PMDD, 2) the increase in suicidal experiences caused by diagnosis delays and 3) self-worth damaged by PMDD.ConclusionWomen living with PMDD are at high risk of self-harm, suicidal thoughts and attempts to end their lives each month, narratives highlighted the damaging impacts PMDD had on relationships. Risk was increased by delays in appropriate medical support and women reported internalising their experiences as their problem.
Research on healthcare data sharing in the context of digital platforms considering the risks of data breaches
Authors: Bai Shizhen , Zheng Jinjin , Wu Wenya , Gao Dongrui , Gu Xiujin 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundWithin China's healthcare landscape, the sharing of medical data has emerged as a pivotal force propelling advancements in the insurance sector and enhancing patient engagement with healthcare services. However, medical institutions often exhibit reluctance toward data sharing due to apprehensions regarding data security and privacy safeguards. To navigate this conundrum, our research introduces and empirically validates a model grounded in evolutionary game theory, offering a robust theoretical framework and actionable strategies for facilitating healthcare data sharing while harmonizing the dual imperatives of data utility and privacy preservation.MethodsIn this paper, we construct an evolutionary game model involving medical institutions, big data innovation platforms, and insurance companies within the context of digital platforms. The model integrates exogenous causes of data breaches, endogenous causes of data breaches, compensation payments, government penalties, subsidies, unreasonable fees, claims efficiency, and insurance fraud.ResultsThe stability analysis of the evolutionary game identifies eight equilibrium points among medical institutions, platforms, and insurance companies. Numerical simulations demonstrate convergence toward strategy E7 = (0, 0, 1), suggesting a trend for medical institutions to adopt a fully anonymous information-sharing strategy, platforms to implement strict regulation, and insurance companies to opt for an auditing approach. Sensitivity analysis reveals that the parameters selected in this study significantly influence the players' behavioral choices and the game's equilibria.ConclusionsWhen breaches occur, medical institutions tend to seek co-sharing between platforms and insurance companies. This promotes enhanced regulation by platforms and incentivizes insurance companies to perform audits. If the responsibility for the breach is attributed to the platform or the insurance company, the liability sharing system will push healthcare organizations to choose a fully anonymous information sharing strategy. Otherwise, medical institutions will choose partially anonymous information sharing for more benefits. In case of widespread data leakage, the amount of compensation shall augment, and the role of compensation shall replace the role of government supervision. Then, the government shall penalize them, which shall reduce the motivation of each subject.
Particulate matter pollution and older adult health: global trends and disparities, 1991–2021
Authors: Yi Qiong , Liu Min , Yan Dandan , Wang Xu , Meng Deqian , Li Ju , Wang Kai 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundParticulate matter pollution (PMP) is a major global health concern, with the older adult being particularly vulnerable. This study aimed to analyze global trends in PMP-related deaths and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) among the older adult from 1991 to 2021.MethodsUsing data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021, we examined the impacts of ambient particulate matter pollution (APMP) and household air pollution from solid fuels (HAP-SF). We analyzed trends across different regions, socioeconomic development levels, age groups, and genders.ResultsAPMP-related older adult deaths increased from 1,745,000 to 3,850,000, and DALYs from 32,000,000 to 70,000,000. However, age-standardized mortality rate decreased from 384 to 337 per 100,000. HAP-SF-related deaths decreased from 2,700,000 to 2,100,000, and DALYs from 54,000,000 to 42,000,000. Age-standardized mortality rate for HAP-SF declined from 580 to 188 per 100,000. High APMP burden was concentrated in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, while high HAP-SF burden was found in parts of Africa and South Asia. East Asia had the highest APMP-related older adult deaths (1,680,000) with an age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) of 619 per 100,000. For HAP-SF, South Asia bore the heaviest burden with 1,020,000 deaths and an ASMR of 616 per 100,000. Females consistently experienced higher age-standardized DALYs rate than males for both APMP and HAP-SF across all regions and years. APMP burden showed a weak negative correlation with the Socio-demographic Index (SDI) at the regional level (r = −0.25, p &lt; 0.001) but no significant correlation at the country level. HAP-SF burden exhibited strong negative correlations with SDI at both regional (r = −0.74, p &lt; 0.001) and country levels (r = −0.83, p &lt; 0.001).ConclusionDespite overall improvements, PMP continues to significantly impact older adult health globally, with substantial regional and gender disparities. These findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions, particularly in developing regions, and continued global efforts in air quality improvement and clean energy promotion.
Avoid overstepping the bounds of evidence: the role of the orthodontist in managing pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Rinchuse Daniel J. , Boggio Andrea , Manni Antonio , Cozzani Mauro 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionPediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a common sleep-related breathing disorder often linked to distinct craniofacial features and malocclusions. While orthodontic treatments, particularly maxillary expansion and mandibular advancement, have been suggested for managing this condition, the results remain controversial and are based on low-quality evidence. This paper aims to summarize the ongoing debates on this topic by reviewing relevant literature and highlighting the role of the orthodontist in diagnosing and managing OSA in daily clinical practice.Discussion and conclusionsAccording to the present review, there is insufficient evidence to either confirm or deny the effectiveness of oral appliances for treating pediatric OSA due to significant methodological limitations, such as small sample sizes, inadequate control groups, short study durations, and a lack of long-term follow-up. Additionally, this condition cannot be diagnosed solely based on craniofacial morphology, but an interdisciplinary evaluation is strictly required. In addition, orthopedic treatment may be considered only as an adjunct therapy for children with craniofacial anomalies increasing the risk for OSA, and the combination of multiple therapeutic approaches may be necessary to achieve effective treatment outcomes.