bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Perspectives on the COVID‐19 pandemic and life‐space mobility in older adults
Authors: Cenko Erta , Manini Todd M. , Smail Emily J. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractBackgroundThe COVID‐19 pandemic significantly affected the physical health of older adults around the world, causing day‐to‐day disruptions in routines and changes to usual patterns of mobility. Despite the passing of 2 years since vaccinations, older adults continue to experience detriments, including social isolation and reduced mobility. This study aims to understand how views of the COVID‐19 pandemic are associated with life‐space mobility—moving about the community. We hypothesize that endorsing stronger perspectives about the persistence of COVID‐19 is correlated with reduced life‐space mobility.MethodsSurvey data were collected via online questionnaire in October and November of 2022. Linear regression models were used to examine the relationship between five perspectives on the COVID‐19 pandemic (e.g., agreeing that “I wish people would take COVID‐19 more seriously”) and life‐space mobility, measured using a modified version of the life space assessment, in older adults (n = 510). Analyses were adjusted for demographic factors and mental and physical health indicators, including depressive symptoms and number of chronic conditions.ResultsIn fully adjusted models, the study found that endorsing a stronger lingering impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic across any of the five perspectives was associated with significantly lower life‐space mobility.ConclusionsThe results of this study show that endorsing a stronger lingering impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic is associated with reduced life‐space mobility, which underscores the importance of designing public health strategies that carefully balance the safety concerns of older adults with opportunities for physical activity and social interaction.
Oral Chinese herbal medicine combined with donepezil for mild cognitive impairment: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Liu Lingling , Zhang Claire Shuiqing , Zhang Anthony Lin , Cai Yefeng , Xue Charlie Changli 
Published: August 2024

AbstractBackgroundThis study aims to evaluate the add‐on effects of oral Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) for mild cognitive impairment (MCI), when used in addition to donepezil compared to donepezil alone.MethodsRandomized controlled trials comparing these treatments across all types of MCI were identified from nine databases and three registers until August 2023. Outcome measures were Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and adverse events (AEs). Methodological quality was assessed using Cochrane risk‐of‐bias tool, and evidence certainty was evaluated using the GRADE method.ResultsInvolving 1611 participants across 20 studies, meta‐analysis results indicate that oral CHM combined with donepezil significantly improved cognitive function in MCI patients compared to donepezil alone, as evidenced by MMSE (1.88 [1.52, 2.24], I2 = 41%, 12 studies, 993 participants) and MoCA (MD: 2.01 [1.57, 2.44], I2 = 52%, 11 studies, 854 participants). Eleven studies reported details of AEs, identifying gastrointestinal symptoms and insomnia as the most common symptoms. No significant difference in AEs frequency was found between the groups (RR: 0.91 [0.59, 1.39], I2 = 4%, 11 studies, 808 participants). All 20 studies were evaluated as having “some concerns” regarding the overall risk of bias. The certainty of evidence for MMSE was “moderate” and “low” for MoCA. From frequently utilized herbs, two classical CHM formulae were identified: Kai xin san and Si wu decoction. The observed treatment effects of commonly used herbs may be exerted through multiple pharmacological mechanisms, including anti‐inflammatory, anti‐oxidative stress, anti‐apoptotic actions, promotion of neuronal survival and modulation of the cholinergic system.ConclusionsThe concurrent use of oral CHM and donepezil appears to be more effective than donepezil alone in improving the cognitive function of MCI, without leading to an increase in AEs. While recognizing concerns of overall methodological quality, this combined therapy should be considered as an alternative option for clinical practice.
Effects of European emissions trading on the transformation of primary steelmaking: Assessment of economic and climate impacts in a case study from Germany
Authors: Graupner Yannik , Weckenborg Christian , Spengler Thomas S. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractDue to climate change and the urgent need to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions of industrial processes, decarbonizing energy‐intensive industries is highly important. In Europe, emissions trading is the main regulatory instrument providing incentives to replace conventional production facilities with low‐carbon alternatives. Using the example of primary steelmaking, this study aims to evaluate the impacts of product benchmark revisions on the transformation of integrated steel mills. To this end, an optimization model for the strategic planning of economically favorable transformation pathways is developed. The model is combined with a prospective assessment of economic and climate impacts from steelmaking processes. By applying the model to a case study from Germany, legislative conditions in which steel manufacturers are encouraged to transform their production infrastructure are identified. Based on current regulations on product benchmarks for steelmaking, investments into low‐carbon technologies are slowed down until allocations of emissions allowances expire. However, benchmark revisions have the potential to speed up transformation plans significantly. In the analyzed scenarios, the greenhouse gas emissions of primary steelmaking between 2024 and 2034 decreased by up to 15%. These results are further strengthened by sensitivity analyses on the main market influences. Hence, this study provides policy recommendations on favorable revisions of product benchmarks for primary steelmaking.
Correlation of internalized stigma with self‐esteem, social support and coping styles in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Zhang Yi , Shen Biyu , Meng Weifen , Gao Bo , Wang Tiantian , Geng Yaqin 
Published: August 2024

AbstractAimTo understand the status of internalized stigma in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and explore its relationship with self‐esteem, social support, and coping style.MethodsThis cross‐sectional study selected patients with RA who visited the Rheumatology and Immunology Department of a tertiary hospital from May 2022 to May 2023. The Chinese versions of the Internalized Stigma of Mental Illness Scale‐Rheumatoid Arthritis (ISMI‐RA), Social Support Rating Scale, Rosenberg Self‐Esteem Scale, and Medical Coping Style Questionnaire were administered to assess the internalized stigma, social support, self‐esteem, and coping styles, respectively. The Pearson correlation test or Spearman rank correlation was then used to analyze the correlation between these measures.ResultsOverall, 69.5% participants reported high level of internalized stigma. The average age of the 174 participants was 52.67 ± 12.24 years, with 87.36 per cent female patients. The mean ISMI‐RA score was 54.49 ± 9.62, and the ISMI‐RA subscale with the highest average score was alienation. The Pearson's correlations show that internalized stigma was positively associated with the coping styles of avoidance (r = .212, p < .01) and acceptance (r = .560, p < .01), and that internalized stigma was negatively associated with the coping styles of confrontation (r = −.479, p < .01), social support (r = −.570, p < .01), and self‐esteem(r = −.512, p < .05).ConclusionThe high level of internalized stigma in RA patients suggests that we should develop interventions to improve patients' self‐esteem, encourage them to adopt positive coping styles, and gain more social support for them, so as to alleviate their internalized stigma.
Impaired cellular copper regulation in the presence of ApoE4
Authors: Blades Bryce , Hung Ya Hui , Belaidi Abdel A. , Volitakis Irene , Schultz Aaron G. , Cater Michael A. , Cheung Nam Sang , Bush Ashley I. , Ayton Scott , La Fontaine Sharon 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThe strongest genetic risk factor for late‐onset Alzheimer's disease (AD) is allelic variation of the APOE gene, with the following risk structure: ε4 > ε3 > ε2. The biochemical basis for this risk profile is unclear. Here, we reveal a new role for the APOE gene product, apolipoprotein E (ApoE) in regulating cellular copper homeostasis, which is perturbed in the AD brain. Exposure of ApoE target replacement (TR) astrocytes (immortalised astrocytes from APOE knock‐in mice) to elevated copper concentrations resulted in exacerbated copper accumulation in ApoE4‐ compared to ApoE2‐ and ApoE3‐TR astrocytes. This effect was also observed in SH‐SY5Y neuroblastoma cells treated with conditioned medium from ApoE4‐TR astrocytes. Increased intracellular copper levels in the presence of ApoE4 may be explained by reduced levels and delayed trafficking of the copper transport protein, copper‐transporting ATPase 1 (ATP7A/Atp7a), potentially leading to impaired cellular copper export. This new role for ApoE in copper regulation lends further biochemical insight into how APOE genotype confers risk for AD and reveals a potential contribution of ApoE4 to the copper dysregulation that is a characteristic pathological feature of the AD brain.image
Understanding negative feedback: Changes in high‐molecular‐weight adrenocorticotropic hormone in adrenocorticotropic hormone‐independent Cushing's syndrome
Authors: Ichinose Yuto , Nakatsuji Mei , Bando Hironori , Yamamoto Masaaki , Kanzawa Maki , Yoshino Kei , Fukuoka Hidenori , Ogawa Wataru 
Published: August 2024

AbstractCushing's syndrome is characterized by chronic glucocorticoid oversecretion and diverse clinical manifestations. Distinguishing between adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)‐independent and ACTH‐dependent forms is crucial for determining treatment options. Plasma ACTH levels aid in the differential diagnosis, with undetectable or low levels suggesting ACTH‐independent hypercortisolemia. ACTH is derived from pro‐opiomelanocortin, and its processing involves prohormone convertase 1/3. High‐molecular‐weight ACTH is generally found in ACTH‐producing pituitary tumors and ectopic ACTH syndrome. The mechanism of negative feedback and the process of high‐molecular‐weight ACTH alternation during ACTH‐independent Cushing's syndrome remain unclear. A 40‐year‐old woman with hypertension and multiple fractures developed symptoms suggestive of Cushing's syndrome. Computed tomography revealed a left adrenocortical tumor along with atrophy of the right adrenal gland. ACTH levels were undetectable at the previous clinic, indicating ACTH‐independent Cushing's syndrome. However, subsequent measurements at our hospital revealed non‐suppressed ACTH (18.1 pg/mL), prompting further investigation. Gel exclusion chromatography confirmed the presence of high‐molecular‐weight ACTH. Metyrapone treatment decreased the cortisol levels. In this situation, in which ACTH levels should be elevated, a decrease in high‐molecular‐weight ACTH levels was observed. Histological findings revealed cortisol‐producing adenoma without ACTH expression. This case highlights the importance of assay differences in evaluating ACTH concentrations and introduces a novel finding of circulating high‐molecular‐weight ACTH. The observed decline in high‐molecular‐weight ACTH levels suggests a potential time lag in the negative feedback within the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis exhibited by glucocorticoids. This temporal aspect of the regulation of ACTH‐related molecules warrants further exploration to enhance our understanding of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis feedback mechanism.
Anatomical perspectives of brow‐lifting using threads: Clinical cases with techniques
Authors: Park Soo Yeon , Kim Soo‐Bin , Wan Jovian , Techapichetvanich Thanya , Tsay Ti Jo , Sirisuk Thanawan , Yi Kyu‐Ho 
Published: August 2024

AbstractIntroductionTailoring surgical interventions to target age‐related transformations is paramount. Many candidates seeking blepharoplasty commonly exhibit eyebrow ptosis, underscoring the necessity for surgeons to possess a comprehensive understanding of techniques for brow and forehead rejuvenation.MethodsVarious surgical techniques are available for eyebrow and forehead enhancement, contrasting the standardized approaches in upper and lower blepharoplasty. Thread lifting has gained popularity for forehead lifting, although a more precise term would be eyebrow lifting. The thread lifting methods using V and I techniques with floating‐type threads (Secret Line, Hyundai Meditech., Inc., Wonju‐si, Republic of Korea) are used.ResultsThe natural aging process often causes the forehead and eyebrows to sag under the influence of gravity, leading to the appearance of heavy eyelids. Elevating the eyebrows can mitigate droopiness, enhance vision clarity, and rejuvenate the facial aesthetic. While non‐surgical methods like Botulinum Toxin A can weaken muscles and potentially aid in brow elevation, their visible effects may be somewhat constrained.DiscussionSurgical methods encompass endoscopic forehead lift, eyebrow lift techniques, and scalp excision‐based forehead reduction surgery, each with specific advantages and drawbacks. Thread lifting bridges the gap between surgical and non‐surgical modalities. Forehead areas often lack subcutaneous fat, requiring precise anatomical understanding for effective thread lifting. Cannula usage with partial tunneling ensures efficacy even in patients with strong adhesions. Presented cases showcase successful eyebrow lifting using cog threads, illustrating immediate and gradual post‐procedure changes.ConclusionEyebrow thread lifting demands periodic procedures, offering subtler improvements than surgery. Anatomical knowledge is crucial, and the technique presents discomfort. Effects last about 6 months, requiring re‐treatment as effects regress. Thread lifting, a middle ground between surgical and non‐surgical methods, can rejuvenate brows with less downtime.
Comparison of different methods used in the classification of maxillary gingival phenotype: A diagnostic accuracy study
Authors: Guliyev Rasul , Lutfioglu Muge , Keskiner Ilker 
Published: August 2024

AbstractAimsThis study aimed to evaluate the reliability and applicability of novel methods for determining gingival phenotypes and compare them with currently recommended methods.MethodsSix maxillary anterior teeth from 50 systemically and periodontally healthy patients were evaluated using two conventional methods (periodontal probe translucency method [PP] and transgingival measurement with an endodontic file [EF]), and two novel methods (colored biotype probe translucency method [CBP] and transgingival measurement with a Florida probe [FP]). All data were statistically analyzed. Intra‐examiner reproducibility and inter‐examiner reproducibility for all methods were analyzed using 10 randomly selected patients who were re‐evaluated for each analysis.ResultsModerate agreement was found between EF and PP, with statistically significant differences between median gingival thickness (GT) values for thick 0.8 mm (0.5–1.1 mm) and thin 1 mm (0.6–1.7 mm) phenotypes, and a threshold GT value of ≤0.92 mm (p < .001). FP and PP also showed moderate agreement, with statistically significant differences between median GT values for thick and thin phenotypes (0.80 mm [0.40–1.60 mm] and 0.89 mm [0.40–1.60 mm], respectively), and a threshold GT value of ≤0.8 mm (p < .001). PP and CBP values showed a substantial agreement (p < .001). A statistically significant difference was found between median EF values and CBP categories (p < .001); however, paired comparisons showed that the distinction was applicable only between thin and other phenotypes.ConclusionAlthough CBP was found to be successful in detecting the thin phenotype, it was not successful in distinguishing between medium, thick, and very thick phenotypes; moreover, it did not appear to offer any advantages over PP. Although FP may be preferable to EF in measuring gingival thickness, the cost of FP is a disadvantage.
Mixed‐Genotype HCV Direct Acting Antiviral Outcomes: A CANUHC Analysis
Authors: Imsirovic Haris , Macphail Gisela , Conway Brian , Fraser Chris , Borgia Sergio , Smyth Daniel , Wong Alexander , Vachon Marie‐Louise , Webster Duncan , Liu Hongqun , Feld Jordan , Lee Sam , Cooper Curtis ,   the Canadian Network Undertaking against Hepatitis C (CANUHC) Cohort Investigator Team
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACTThe prevalence of mixed hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype infection in a representative Canadian HCV cohort is reported and virological response with direct acting antiviral (DAA) treatment was evaluated. 3272 HCV‐positive participants were enrolled, of which 2945 (90.0%) initiated DAA therapy. 0.8% were identified with mixed genotype infection. Overall sustained virological response (SVR) was 99.1% and did not differ based on mixed genotype status. Any historical disadvantage to achieving cure with HCV treatment in mixed genotype infection has been overcome by current DAA regimens.
Genome scans for selection signatures identify candidate virulence genes for adaptation of the soybean cyst nematode to host resistance
Authors: Kwon Khee Man , Viana João P. G. , Walden Kimberly K. O. , Usovsky Mariola , Scaboo Andrew M. , Hudson Matthew E. , Mitchum Melissa G. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractPlant pathogens are constantly under selection pressure for host resistance adaptation. Soybean cyst nematode (SCN, Heterodera glycines) is a major pest of soybean primarily managed through resistant cultivars; however, SCN populations have evolved virulence in response to selection pressures driven by repeated monoculture of the same genetic resistance. Resistance to SCN is mediated by multiple epistatic interactions between Rhg (for resistance to H. glycines) genes. However, the identity of SCN virulence genes that confer the ability to overcome resistance remains unknown. To identify candidate genomic regions showing signatures of selection for increased virulence, we conducted whole genome resequencing of pooled individuals (Pool‐Seq) from two pairs of SCN populations adapted on soybeans with Peking‐type (rhg1‐a, rhg2, and Rhg4) resistance. Population differentiation and principal component analysis‐based approaches identified approximately 0.72–0.79 million SNPs, the frequency of which showed potential selection signatures across multiple genomic regions. Chromosomes 3 and 6 between population pairs showed the greatest density of outlier SNPs with high population differentiation. Conducting multiple outlier detection tests to identify overlapping SNPs resulted in a total of 966 significantly differentiated SNPs, of which 285 exon SNPs were mapped to 97 genes. Of these, six genes encoded members of known stylet‐secreted effector protein families potentially involved in host defence modulation including venom‐allergen‐like, annexin, glutathione synthetase, SPRYSEC, chitinase, and CLE effector proteins. Further functional analysis of identified candidate genes will provide new insights into the genetic mechanisms by which SCN overcomes soybean resistance and inform the development of molecular markers for rapidly screening the virulence profile of an SCN‐infested field.
An audacious approach to incorporating students into the ethnographic research process
Authors: Schow Diana , Cartwright Elizabeth , Bassett Tamra 
Published: August 2024

AbstractIn this paper, we discuss the experience of the Idaho CommuniVax local team and how a large‐scale incorporation of college students into its ethnographic research process ensured bona‐fide community engagement and a deeper understanding of the experiences of Hispanic community members as they considered COVID‐19 vaccination within the broader context of non‐Hispanic, rural, agricultural southeastern Idaho. We detail the logic behind the steps we took to rapidly recruit, train, and provide future‐oriented opportunities for 20 students who were studying a variety of disciplines. The students were from geographic localities in or near the research communities of interest. Their familial and social connections served as critical information channels between policy‐makers, decision‐makers, academics, and community members. Their varied ethnic backgrounds and their sheer number resulted in comprehensive research results and an expansive network of evidence‐based COVID‐19 information sharing that would have been impossible without their involvement.
Intensive care unit carbon footprint: A bibliometric and document content analysis
Authors: Ozkan Esra 
Published: August 2024

AbstractBackgroundSustainable low‐carbon health systems are among the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP27) goals. The literature states that 4.9% of greenhouse gas emissions originate from the health sector.AimThis study aimed to quantify and visualize trends, citations, key terms and countries of publications about the carbon footprint of intensive care and review their contents.Study designA bibliometric analysis was conducted on 14 articles selected by searching the SCOPUS database using the keywords ‘Environmental sustainability’, ‘Environmental footprint’, ‘Carbon footprint’ and ‘Intensive care unit’. MS Excel was used to create graphs, and VOSviewer was used to perform network analysis. Content analysis methods were used to describe the details in each document.ResultsMost articles on intensive care carbon footprint and environmental sustainability were published in 2023 (n = 7, 47%), with the first publication in 2014. The article ‘Environmental sustainability in anaesthesia and critical care’, from the British Journal of Anaesthesia, was the most cited, with 166 citations. The carbon footprinting studies were conducted in the United Kingdom, Australia, United States and the Netherlands.ConclusionMinimizing electricity usage and waste generation (reducing, reusing and recycling more) can reduce the carbon footprint of intensive care. The number of studies on the subject was limited, and although none were specifically about nurses, sustainability and environmental impact are relevant topics for all intensive care staff.Relevance to Clinical PracticeNurses and other health care professionals can improve environmental sustainability by better understanding how to reduce the carbon footprint of intensive care units.
A jasmonate‐mediated regulatory network modulates diurnal floret opening time in rice
Authors: Ding Wenyan , Gou Yajun , Li Yajing , Li Juanjuan , Fang Yudong , Liu Xupeng , Zhu Xinyu , Ye Rongjian , Heng Yueqin , Wang Haiyang , Shen Rongxin 
Published: August 2024

Summary

Diurnal floret opening time (DFOT) is a pivotal trait for successful fertilization and hybrid breeding in rice. However, the molecular mechanism underlying this trait is poorly understood in rice.

In this study, we combined the cytological, genetic and molecular studies to demonstrate that jasmonic acid (JA) regulates DFOT in rice through modulating the turgor and osmotic pressure of the lodicules.

We show that lodicules undergo dramatic morphologic changes, accompanied by changes in water and sugar contents during the process of floret opening. Consistently, a large set of genes associated with cell osmolality and cell wall remodeling exhibits distinct expression profiles at different time points in our time‐course transcriptomes of lodicules. Notably, a group of JA biosynthesis and signaling genes is continuously upregulated, accompanied by a gradual increase in JA accumulation as floret opening approaching. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the JA biosynthesis gene OsAOS1 is required for endogenous JA biosynthesis in lodicules and promoting rice DFOT. Moreover, OsMYC2, a master regulator of JA signaling, regulates rice DFOT by directly activating OsAOS1, OsSWEET4, OsPIP2;2 and OsXTH9.

Collectively, our findings establish a core regulatory network mediated by JA for modulating rice DFOT and provide effective gene targets for the genetic improvement of DFOT in rice.