bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The role of serum α-Klotho levels in preventing hearing impairment among middle-aged and older adults: insights from a nationally representative sample
Authors: Wang Siyuan , Sun Wen , Ding Chan , Zhou Wenxin , Zhang Min , Xu Huadong 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundThe Klotho gene is implicated in suppressing aging phenotypes and influencing age-related diseases. Previous studies have delved into its connection with different diseases, yet the association between Klotho and hearing loss has rarely been examined. A recent population study explored the relationship between serum Klotho and hearing loss, but it had certain limitations. This study aims to analyze the link between serum α-Klotho levels and hearing thresholds, as well as the risk of hearing loss.MethodsA total of 1,762 adults aged 40–69 years were selected from the 2011–2012 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Data on audiometry, serum α-Klotho levels, and relevant covariates were gathered. Statistical analyses, including linear and logistic regression, assessed the relationships of serum α-Klotho levels with hearing outcomes.ResultsIncreased serum α-Klotho levels were correlated with diminished hearing thresholds and a lower risk of hearing loss. Quartile analysis revealed a significant trend, where elevated α-Klotho levels were linked to better auditory outcomes. Adjusted models controlled for various covariates, affirming the robustness of the findings. Non-linear associations were not observed.ConclusionThis study provided novel evidence of a negative association between serum α-Klotho and hearing impairment in adults aged 40–69. Our results suggested a protective role of serum α-Klotho on adults with hearing loss.
Trajectories of cognitive function and frailty in older adults in China: a longitudinal study
Authors: Ji Xiaoyi , Wu Yue , Gu Zijie , Zhong Zhujun , Wang Kerui , Ye Suni , Wan Yang , Qiu Peiyuan 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundCognitive impairment and frailty are common issues in older adults. Understanding the co-development trajectories of these conditions can provide valuable sights for early detection and intervention in high-risk individuals.ObjectivesThis study aims to identify the co-development of cognitive function and frailty and explore the associated characteristics.MethodsWe analyzed data from 8,418 individuals aged 55 years and above who participated in the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Survey between 2011 and 2018. Group-based dual trajectory modeling and logistic regression were used to identify trajectory groups and assess associations with risk factors.ResultsTwo distinct dual trajectories were identified: “Consistently Robust” group (76.12%) and “Consistently Severe” group (23.88%). Factors such as being female, older age, lower levels of education, residing in rural areas, being unmarried, and having comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes, complete tooth loss, vision impairment, or hearing impairment were associated with a higher likelihood of being assigned to the “Consistently Severe” group.ConclusionOur findings suggest a co-development pattern between cognitive function and frailty in Chinese older adults aged 55 years and above. While cognitive impairment may be irreversible, frailty is a condition that can be potentially reversed. Early detecting is crucial in preventing cognitive decline, considering the shared trajectory of these conditions.
Changing maternal and child nutrition practices through integrating social and behavior change interventions in community-based self-help and support groups: literature review from Bangladesh, India, and Vietnam
Authors: Verma Anumeha , Nguyen Tuan , Purty Appolenarius , Pradhan Narottam , Husan Alomgir , Zambrano Paul , Mahmud Zeba , Ghosh Sebanti , Mathisen Roger , Forissier Thomas 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionSelf-help groups (SHGs) and Support Groups (SGs) are increasingly recognized as effective mechanisms for improving maternal and young child nutrition due to their decentralized, community-based structures. While numerous studies have evaluated the outcomes and impact of SHGs and SGs on nutrition practices, there remains a gap in the literature. To address this, we conducted a literature review to examine the role of SHGs and SGs in improving health and nutrition outcomes, focusing on marginalized women, especially pregnant and lactating women (PLW), in India, Bangladesh, and Vietnam, with an emphasis on programs supported by the international non-governmental initiative, Alive &amp; Thrive.Methods and materialsWe conducted a literature review to assess various models, summarizing findings from 34 documents, including research studies, evaluation reports, program materials, strategies, annual reports, work plans, and toolkits. Relevant information from these documents was extracted using predetermined forms.ResultsIn India, the models used SHGs with 10–20 women, federated into larger village and district organizations. Bangladesh and Vietnam SGs have similar structures but with local leaders and committees playing key roles. In all three countries, interventions aimed to improve health and nutrition practices through social behavior change (SBC) interventions, including peer-to-peer learning, interpersonal communication, home visits, and community meetings. Outcomes of the interventions showed that SHG members had increased knowledge of breastfeeding, complementary feeding, and improved dietary diversity compared to non-SHG participants. Interventions helped improve infant and young child feeding practices. Common challenges included sustaining the SHGs, ensuring adequate participation, socio-cultural barriers, and logistical difficulties in reaching PLW in remote areas. Limited time for health topics during SHG meetings and the dissolution of older SHGs were also significant issues.ConclusionSHG and SG models demonstrate success in improving health and nutrition outcomes but face challenges in scale, sustainability, and participation. Integrating nutrition-focused SBC interventions into SHGs and SGs requires significant capacity building for technical and counseling skills. Ensuring comprehensive coverage and robust quality assessment during community-based rollouts is essential. To sustain these interventions, it is crucial to prevent group dissolution, allow time for maturation, and secure strong stakeholder engagement and political support.
Intraoperative optical coherence tomography imaging for assessment of anterior chamber gas fill
Authors: Tseng Michael , Thau Avrey , Berkowitz Carla , Ramaprasad Abhijit , Basti Surendra 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionDuring endothelial keratoplasty, anterior chamber gas is titrated to a desired fill, which is difficult to optimize by visualization alone. This study evaluates how an anterior chamber gas fill correlates with intraocular pressure (IOP) and iris-angle configuration as identified by optical coherence tomography (OCT).MethodsEleven cadaveric eyes were studied in three configurations: baseline, air-fill just spanning limbus-to-limbus (“full-fill”), and air-fill maximally filling the anterior chamber (“overfill”). At each configuration, IOP was measured by Tonopen and iris-angle was determined by analyzing OCT images.ResultsNo differences in IOP or irisangles were identified between baseline and full-fill configurations (p=0.113 and p=0.152, respectively). When compared to overfill configuration, differences in IOP and iris-angles were identified for baseline (p&lt;0.001 and p=0.001, respectively) and full-fill configuration (p=0.001 and p=0.039, respectively).DiscussionThese findings highlight that en-face visualization of full-fill may not be indicative of IOP elevation. A significant difference in IOP and iris-angle exists between full-fill and overfill configurations. Intraoperative OCT can serve as a useful surrogate to identify the extent of fill.
High-density lipoprotein protects normotensive and hypertensive rats against ischemia-reperfusion injury through differential regulation of mTORC1 and mTORC2 signaling
Authors: Al-Othman Reham , Al-Jarallah Aishah , Babiker Fawzi 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundHigh-density lipoprotein (HDL) protects against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. Mammalian target of rapamycin complexes 1 and 2 (mTORC1 and mTORC2) play opposing roles in protecting against I/R injury, whereby mTORC1 appears to be detrimental while mTORC2 is protective. However, the role of HDL and mTORC signaling in protecting against I/R in hypertensive rodents is not clearly understood. In this study, we investigated the involvement of mTORC1 and mTORC2 in HDL-mediated protection against myocardial I/R injury in normotensive Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR).MethodsHearts from WKY and SHR were subjected to I/R injury using a modified Langendorff system. Hemodynamics data were collected, and infarct size was measured. Rapamycin and JR-AB2-011 were used to test the role of mTORC1 and mTORC2, respectively. MK-2206 was used to test the role of Akt in HDL-mediated cardiac protection. The expression levels and the activation states of mediators of mTORC1 and mTORC2 signaling and myocardial apoptosis were measured by immunoblotting and/or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).ResultsHDL protected hearts from WKY and SHR against I/R injury as indicated by significant improvements in cardiac hemodynamics and reduction in infarct size. HDL induced greater protection in WKY compared to SHR. HDL treatment attenuated mTORC1 signaling in WKY by reducing the phosphorylation of P70S6K (mTORC1 substrate). In SHR however, HDL attenuated mTORC1 signaling by reducing the levels of phospho-mTORC1, Rag C (mTORC1 activator), and phospho-PRAS40 (mTORC1 inhibitor). HDL increased the phosphorylation of mTORC2 substrate Akt, specifically the Akt2 isoform in SHR and to a greater extent in WKY. HDL-induced protection was abolished in the presence of Akt antagonist and involved attenuation of GSK, caspases 7 and 8 activation, and cytochrome C release.ConclusionHDL mediates cardiac protection via attenuation of mTORC1, activation of mTORC2-Akt2, and inhibition of myocardial apoptosis. HDL regulates mTORC1 and mTORC2 signaling via distinct mechanisms in normotensive and hypertensive rats. HDL attenuation of mTORC1 and activation of mTORC2-Akt2 signaling could be a mechanism by which HDL protects against myocardial I/R injury in hypertension.
Bmal1 haploinsufficiency impairs fear memory and modulates neuroinflammation via the 5-HT2C receptor
Authors: Li Weifen , Mou Shengnan , Ali Tahir , Li Tianxiang , Liu Yan , Li Shupeng , Yu Xiaoming , Yu Zhi-Jian 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundBMAL1, a key regulator of circadian rhythms, plays a multifaceted role in brain function. However, the complex interplay between BMAL1, memory, neuroinflammation, and neurotransmitter regulation remains poorly understood. To investigate these interactions, we conducted a study using BMAL1-haplodeficient mice (BMAL1+/−).MethodsWe exposed BMAL1+/− mice to behavioral assessments including cued fear conditioning, new objection recognition (NOR) test, and Y-maze test to evaluate BMAL1+/− haplodeficiency impact on memory. Furthermore, biochemical changes were analyzed through western blotting, and ELISA to explore further the mechanism of BMAL1+/− in memory, and neuroinflammation.ResultsWe found that BMAL1 haploinsufficiency led to deficits in cued fear learning and memory, while spatial memory and object recognition remained intact. Further analysis revealed dysregulated neurotransmitter levels and alterations in neurotransmitter-related proteins in the prefrontal cortex of BMAL1+/− mice. Pharmacological interventions targeting dopamine uptake or the 5-HT2C receptor demonstrated that inhibiting the 5-HT2C receptor could rescue fear learning and memory impairments in BMAL1+/− mice. Additionally, we observed downregulation of the inflammasome and neuroinflammation pathways in BMAL1+/− mice, which is validated by inflammation mediator lipopolysaccharide (LPS) administration.ConclusionThese findings highlight that BMAL1 haploinsufficiency leads to deficits in fear learning and memory, which are linked to alterations in neurotransmitters and receptors, particularly the 5-HT2C receptor. Targeting the 5-HT2C receptor may offer a potential therapeutic strategy for mitigating cognitive impairments associated with BMAL1 dysfunction.
Applying Community-based System Dynamics to promote child health equity: the case of healthy and fit kids in Milwaukee, WI
Authors: Greer Yvonne D. , Nevels Debra , Meinen Amy , Korth Amy L. , Moore Travis R. , Appel Julia , Werner Kelsey , Calancie Larissa , Ellis Andre Lee , Espy Niky , Hendricks Shantel , Johnson Tanya , Johnson Vanessa D. , Nabak Danielle , Rembert Viola , Simenz Christopher , Weeks Nicole , Wilks-Tate Angelia , Economos Christina D. 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundChild health equity is influenced by complex systemic factors, including structural racism, socioeconomic disparities, and access to resources. Traditional public health interventions often target individual behaviors, but there is a growing need for systems approaches that address these root causes. This study examines coalition members’ perspectives on promoting child health equity in Milwaukee as a result of participating in an intervention that includes Community-based System Dynamics (CBSD).MethodsIn this case study, we used a mixed-methods approach to describe 10 coalition members’ perspective shifts over 6 months, after participating in CBSD activities. These activities generated a causal-loop diagram to map the systemic factors influencing child health. Data collection included pre-post interviews and surveys. The data analysis involved thematic analysis of the qualitative data from interviews, which was then integrated with the open-ended survey responses. The themes identified were cross-referenced with the causal-loop diagram factors to validate and refine the understanding of systemic influences on child health.ResultsPost-intervention, coalition members shifted their focus from individual health behaviors to systemic drivers, particularly structural racism and socioeconomic disparities. The causal-loop diagram helped identify leverage points and fostered a readiness for local collective action and policy advocacy.ConclusionIntegrating CBSD into public health coalitions can shift focus from individual behaviors to systemic causes, enabling more effective interventions. This approach offers valuable insights for promoting child health equity through holistic, community-driven strategies and public policy reforms.
Effect of whole-day work on surgical performance during simulated laparoscopic surgery: study protocol for a controlled cross over laboratory trial
Authors: Sevestre Anaïs , Souron Robin , Deschamps Thibault , Sarcher Aurélie , Thubert Thibault , Dochez Vincent 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionLaparoscopy has become a fundamental aspect of surgery, presenting new challenges such as fatigue, encompassing both muscular and cognitive components. Given its potential to affect surgical precision and create difficulties for the surgeon, it is crucial to study the mechanisms of fatigue for patient safety and the well-being of surgeons. This study aims to demonstrate the influence of general fatigue on surgeons’ performance, incorporating assessments of movement quality through balance, kinematics, and muscle activation, as well as perceived workload. Additionally, the study seeks to evaluate how surgeons’ experience may affect fatigue outcomes.Methods and analysisA controlled cross-over laboratory trial involving 29 residents and surgeons from the obstetrics and gynecology department of Nantes University Hospital is underway. Recruitment started in March 2023 and ended in September 2023. Participants with varying levels of experience perform two one-hour sessions of training box exercises, one in the morning (control condition) and the other at the end of a workday. The primary outcome is a composite score derived from the time to complete the Suturing and Knot Tying Training and Testing (SUTT) exercise, along with the number and quality of stitches. Secondary outcomes include perceived fatigue, discomfort, physical strain, muscle tension, mental workload, muscle activation (measured by surface electromyography), balance (measured using a force platform), and kinematics (measured using motion capture).Ethics and disseminationThe study received ethical approval from the local ethics committee CERNI in December 2022 (n°13,122,022). Results will be presented in international conferences, submitted to peer-reviewed journals, and serve as a feasibility study for subsequent publications.
Exploring how AI adoption in the workplace affects employees: a bibliometric and systematic review
Authors: Soulami Malika , Benchekroun Saad , Galiulina Asiya 
Published: November 2024

IntroductionThe adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace is changing the way organizations function, and profoundly affecting employees. These organizational changes raise crucial questions about the employee’s future and well-being. Our study aims to explore the intersection between artificial intelligence and employee well-being through a bibliometric review and a contextual analysis.MethodologyCarried out in May 2024, our study is divided into two phases. The first phase, dedicated to bibliometric review, was conducted using the PRISMA method, and explored the Scopus and Web of Science databases for the period from 2015 to 2024. A total of 92 articles were selected for quantitative analysis using VOSviewer software. The second phase is based on an in-depth systematic analysis of 25 articles selected from those previously identified. These articles were selected on the basis of their relevance to the research question, and were subjected to in-depth thematic analysis using NVivo software.ResultsThe bibliometric analysis results reveal a significant increase in publications starting from the year 2020, highlighting advancements in research, primarily in the United States and China. The co-occurrence analysis identifies four main clusters: ethics, work autonomy, employee stress, and mental health, thus illustrating the dynamics created by artificial intelligence in the professional environment. Furthermore, the systematic analysis has brought to light theoretical gaps and under-explored areas, such as the need to conduct empirical studies in non-Western cultural contexts and among diverse target groups, including older adults, individuals of different sexes, people with low education levels, and participants from various sectors, including primary and secondary industries, small manufacturing businesses, call centers, as well as public and private healthcare sectors.ConclusionExisting literature emphasize the importance for organizations to implement supportive strategies aimed at mitigating the potential adverse effects of AI on employee well-being, while also leveraging its benefits to enhance workplace autonomy and satisfaction and promote AI-enabled innovation through employee creativity and self-efficacy.
The relationship between upper airway parameters and COVID-19 symptom severity in adolescents
Authors: Du Tianjing , Wang Juan , Mei Peter , Li Dongning , Zhao Jiamin , Zhou Jianglin , Wang Jun , Xu Yifei , Qi Kun 
Published: November 2024

BackgroundCOVID-19 is a respiratory disease, and its symptoms may be affected by the upper airways of adolescents.ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of parameters of adolescents’ upper airways on COVID-19 symptom severity.MethodsThis retrospective study was performed from January to March 2022 at the Hospital of Stomatology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China. The inclusion criteria were patients who started orthodontic treatment for the first time, who experienced initial onset of laboratory-confirmed COVID-19, and who received two intramuscular doses of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. Participants’ COVID-19 symptom severity was recorded by a questionnaire including seven different dimensions. The three-dimensional parameters of the upper airway were obtained by cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and measured by Dolphin Imaging software by blinded orthodontic investigators. The correlation between COVID-19 symptom severity and three-dimensional upper airway parameters was analyzed.Results64 males (46.4%) and 74 females (53.6%) were included in the study, with the median age of 9.5 years. The severity score of dimension 3 (headache, muscle pain, fatigue, shortness of breath, diarrhea and smell affects) showed a linear relationship with age. Spearman's rank correlation showed that the severity score of dimension 1 (nasal symptoms) was negatively correlated with nasal volume (r = −0.325). The severity score of dimension 6 was negatively correlated with the height of the nasopharynx (r = −0.325) and positively correlated with the horizontal-to-vertical ratio of the oropharynx (r = 0.385).Conclusions and relevanceThe COVID-19 symptom severity was aggravated with the increase of age. Nasal and throat pain and dry mouth was negatively correlated with nasal volume and nasopharyngeal height. The COVID-19 symptom severity among individuals is relavant to age and upper airway.
Identification and Gene Fine Mapping of the Bisexual Sterility Mutant Meiosis Abnormal Bisexual Sterility 1 in Rice
Authors: Wan Yingchun , Liu Xiaoqing , Wang Nan , Zeng Zhengming , Jiang Yudong 
Published: November 2024

Exploring the genes regulating rice fertility is of great value for studying the molecular mechanisms of rice reproductive development and production practices. In this study, we identified a sterile mutant from the mutant library induced by ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS), designated as meiosis abnormal bisexual sterility 1 (mabs1). The mabs1 mutant exhibits no phenotypic differences from the wild-type during the vegetative growth phase but shows complete sterility during the reproductive growth phase. Phenotypic observations revealed that both pollen and embryo sac fertility are lost in mabs1. Notably, in mabs1, the development of the anther inner and outer walls, tapetum degeneration, and callose synthesis and degradation all proceed normally, yet meiosis fails to form normal tetrads. Genetic analysis indicated that this mutant trait is controlled by a single recessive nuclear gene. By constructing a genetic segregation population, we successfully mapped the MABS1 gene to a 49 kb region between primer markers Y7 and Y9 on chromosome 1. Resequencing revealed a single-nucleotide substitution in the exon of the LOC_Os01g66170 gene, which resulted in a change from Valine to Isoleucine. Subsequent sequencing of this locus in both wild-type and mabs1 mutants confirmed this mutation. Therefore, we have identified the gene at LOC_Os01g66170 as a candidate for MABS1, a previously unreported novel gene involved in rice meiosis. Through RT-qPCR, we found that the expression levels of multiple meiosis-related genes were significantly changed in the mabs1 mutant. Therefore, we believe that MABS1 is also involved in the process of rice meiosis. This study lays the groundwork for a functional study of MABS1.