bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Depression clinical trials worldwide: a systematic analysis of the ICTRP and comparison with ClinicalTrials.gov
Authors: Namiot Eugenia D. , Smirnovová Diana , Sokolov Aleksandr V. , Chubarev Vladimir N. , Tarasov Vadim V. , Schiöth Helgi B. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractMajor depressive disorder (MDD), commonly known as depression, affects over 300 million people worldwide as of 2018 and presents a wide range of clinical symptoms. The international clinical trials registry platform (ICTRP) introduced by WHO includes aggregated data from ClinicalTrials.gov and 17 other national registers, making it the largest clinical trial platform. Here we analysed data in ICTRP with the aim of providing comprehensive insights into clinical trials on depression. Applying a novel hidden duplicate identification method, 10,606 depression trials were identified in ICTRP, with ANZCTR being the largest non- ClinicalTrials.gov database at 1031 trials, followed by IRCT with 576 trials, ISRCTN with 501 trials, CHiCTR with 489 trials, and EUCTR with 351 trials. The top four most studied drugs, ketamine, sertraline, duloxetine, and fluoxetine, were consistent in both groups, but ClinicalTrials.gov had more trials for each drug compared to the non-ClinicalTrials.gov group. Out of 9229 interventional trials, 663 unique agents were identified, including approved drugs (74.5%), investigational drugs (23.2%), withdrawn drugs (1.8%), nutraceuticals (0.3%), and illicit substances (0.2%). Both ClinicalTrials.gov and non-ClinicalTrials.gov databases revealed that the largest categories were antidepressive agents (1172 in ClinicalTrials.gov and 659 in non-ClinicalTrials.gov) and nutrients, amino acids, and chemical elements (250 in ClinicalTrials.gov and 659 in non-ClinicalTrials.gov), indicating a focus on alternative treatments involving dietary supplements and nutrients. Additionally, 26 investigational antidepressive agents targeting 16 different drug targets were identified, with buprenorphine (opioid agonist), saredutant (NK2 antagonist), and seltorexant (OX2 antagonist) being the most frequently studied. This analysis addresses 40 approved drugs for depression treatment including new drug classes like GABA modulators and NMDA antagonists that are offering new prospects for treating MDD, including drug-resistant depression and postpartum depression subtypes.
Proteogenomic network analysis reveals dysregulated mechanisms and potential mediators in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Doostparast Torshizi Abolfazl , Truong Dongnhu T. , Hou Liping , Smets Bart , Whelan Christopher D. , Li Shuwei 
Published: July 2024

AbstractParkinson’s disease is highly heterogeneous across disease symptoms, clinical manifestations and progression trajectories, hampering the identification of therapeutic targets. Despite knowledge gleaned from genetics analysis, dysregulated proteome mechanisms stemming from genetic aberrations remain underexplored. In this study, we develop a three-phase system-level proteogenomic analytical framework to characterize disease-associated proteins and dysregulated mechanisms. Proteogenomic analysis identified 577 proteins that enrich for Parkinson’s disease-related pathways, such as cytokine receptor interactions and lysosomal function. Converging lines of evidence identified nine proteins, including LGALS3, CSNK2A1, SMPD3, STX4, APOA2, PAFAH1B3, LDLR, HSPB1, BRK1, with potential roles in disease pathogenesis. This study leverages the largest population-scale proteomics dataset, the UK Biobank Pharma Proteomics Project, to characterize genetically-driven protein disturbances associated with Parkinson’s disease. Taken together, our work contributes to better understanding of genome-proteome dynamics in Parkinson’s disease and sets a paradigm to identify potential indirect mediators connected to GWAS signals for complex neurodegenerative disorders.
Just Energy Transition Partnerships and the future of coal
Authors: Ordonez Jose A. , Vandyck Toon , Keramidas Kimon , Garaffa Rafael , Weitzel Matthias 
Published: July 2024

AbstractRecent climate diplomacy efforts have resulted in Just Energy Transition Partnerships (JETPs) with South Africa, Indonesia and Vietnam, mobilizing financial support for ambitious decarbonization targets. Here, to assess JETPs’ alignment with global climate targets, we conduct a model-based assessment of JETPs’ energy and emissions targets. Results show greater alignment with a global 1.5 °C trajectory, indicating a promising route for international collaboration to keep Paris Agreement goals within reach.
Economic evaluation of diagnosis and treatment for latent tuberculosis infection among contacts of pulmonary tuberculosis patients in Thailand
Authors: Yoopetch Panida , Wu Olivia , Jittikoon Jiraphun , Thavorncharoensap Montarat , Youngkong Sitaporn , Praditsitthikorn Naiyana , Mahasirimongkol Surakameth , Anothaisintawee Thunyarat , Udomsinprasert Wanvisa , Chaikledkaew Usa 
Published: July 2024

AbstractCurrently, interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) is costly and not included as latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) screening test strategy in Thailand’s Universal Coverage Scheme (UCS) benefit package. The objective of this study was to assess the cost-utility of LTBI screening strategies among tuberculosis (TB) contacts in Thailand. A hybrid decision tree and Markov model was developed to compare the lifetime costs and health outcomes of tuberculin skin test (TST) and IGRA, in comparison to no screening, based on a societal perspective. Health outcomes were the total number of TB cases averted and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), with results presented as an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). One-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed to explore uncertainties in all parameters. The ICER of TST compared with no screening was 27,645 baht per QALY gained, while that of IGRA compared to TST was 851,030 baht per QALY gained. In a cohort of 1000 TB contacts, both TST and IGRA strategies could avert 282 and 283 TB cases, respectively. At the Thai societal willingness-to-pay threshold of 160,000 baht per QALY gained, TST was deemed cost-effective, whereas IGRA would not be cost-effective, unless the cost of IGRA was reduced to 1,434 baht per test.
Adipose tissue-liver cross-talk: a route to hepatic dysfunction in pregnant women with obesity
Authors: Sousa Diana , Magalhães Carina C. , Matafome Paulo , Pereira Susana P. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Obesity during pregnancy has been escalating, becoming a huge problem that poses consequences not only for the health of the offspring but also for the maternal well-being. Women’s adipose and hepatic tissue metabolism undergoes significant changes during the gestational period. During pregnancy, obesity is a primary instigator of steatosis, increasing the risk of non-alcholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), now recognized under the updated nomenclature metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Pregnant women with obesity present higher levels of free fatty acids and glucose, reduction in insulin sensitivity, and adipose tissue endocrine dysregulation. Furthermore, obesity-induced modifications in clock genes and lipid-associated gene expression within adipose tissue disrupt crucial metabolic adaptations, potentially culminating in adipose tissue dysfunction. Thus, the liver experiences increased exposure to free fatty acids through the portal vein. Higher uptake of free fatty acids into the liver disrupts hepatic lipid oxidation while enhances lipogenesis, thereby predisposing to ectopic fat deposition within the liver. This review focuses on the obesity-induced changes during pregnancy in both liver and adipose tissue metabolism, elucidating how the metabolic crosstalk between these two organs can be dysregulated in pregnant women living with obesity.
Development of a framework for assessing train passengers' post‐boarding behaviours based on their perceptions
Authors: Yang Jie , Shiwakoti Nirajan , Tay Richard 
Published: July 2024

AbstractWhile existing literature has focused on modelling pedestrian movement on platforms, there is a lack of understanding of passengers' perceptions, motivations, and influential factors that shape their on‐board behaviours and choices. This study developed a conceptual framework to assess passengers' post‐boarding behaviours and perceptions, specifically focusing on their actions and choices inside the train carriages. The conceptual framework was tested through survey data of 429 passengers in Melbourne, Australia. The result shows that door access is the most influential factor when passengers choose where to stand or sit on board, followed by comfort, safety, privacy, and random factors. Furthermore, the study explores the relationship between the post‐boarding behaviour variables and travellers’ personal and trip characteristic variables. The analysis shows that carrying large items has a more significant effect on many post‐boarding behaviour variables. Gender, age group, travel frequency, waiting time, and carrying small items also play significant roles. However, variables such as travel time and frequency of group travel have lesser effects. These novel findings offer valuable insights, laying the groundwork for future modelling activities. Moreover, the understanding derived from passenger perceptions can guide transport agencies and operators in shaping strategies to improve onboard services.
Adaptive fixed‐time fault‐tolerant fuzzy control of AUVs with asymmetric output constraints
Authors: Li Xiaojia , Qin Hongde , Guo Zhongbao , Xue Yifan 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThe fast and safe formation tracking problem for multiple autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) systems (MAUVS) with asymmetric output constraints and actuator faults is studied in this article. Actuator faults are composed of loss of effectiveness and time‐varying unknown bias faults, an adaptive fixed‐time fault‐tolerant controller (AFFTC) is designed by employing fixed‐time stable theory and fuzzy logic systems. Under the designed control algorithm, the MAUVS can be practically fixed‐time stable, the tracking errors among the follower AUVs and the virtual leader AUV can converge to a small area near the origin within the fixed time, and the settling time is unaffected by the initial state of the system. To enhance the safety of MAUVS, a novel asymmetric barrier function is utilized to constrain the trajectory tracking errors within the prescribed range. Finally, the simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control algorithm.
Shoulder Rotation Affects Trapezius Muscle Activity During Shoulder
Horizontal Abduction
Authors: Yu Ilyoung , Kang Minhyeok 
Published: July 2024

AbstractShoulder horizontal abduction exercise in the prone position is effective for
strengthening the lower trapezius muscle. However, this exercise is difficult
for patients with acute pain or those undergoing initial rehabilitation because
of the postural characteristics of the exercise. This study aimed to (1)
investigate the effect of a shoulder horizontal abduction exercise when
performed with a different amount of shoulder rotation on the trapezius muscle
activation and scapular anterior/posterior tilt angle and (2) evaluate the
effect of shoulder rotation on the acromiohumeral distance while sitting.
Fifteen healthy men performed shoulder horizontal abduction exercise in three
shoulder positions (internal rotation, neutral rotation, and external rotation).
During exercises, we measured trapezius muscle activity using an
electromyography system and scapular anterior/posterior tilt angle using an
inclinometer application. We also measured the acromiohumeral distance using
real-time ultrasonography before the exercises. Increases in lower trapezius and
middle trapezius muscle activities and a decrease in scapular anterior tilt
occurred in shoulder external rotation compared with other positions
(p<0.001). Shoulder external rotation also significantly increased
acromiohumeral distance in the sitting position (p<0.05). We propose that
shoulder external rotation effectively and safely increases middle and lower
trapezius muscle activities during the sitting shoulder horizontal abduction
exercise.
Thyroid scintigraphy: establishing a clinically useful normal range for 99mTc pertechnetate uptake
Authors: Grunert Michael , Schenke Simone Agnes , Konrad Andrea , Schütze Christina , Förster Stefan , Klemenz Burkhard , Stahl Alexander R. 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Purpose This study aims to establish a normal range for the thyroid uptake derived from 99mTc pertechnetate scans. In particular, variations of uptake with TSH stimulation and other factors such as urinary iodine concentration are taken into account and compared with the calculation of a raw uptake value.
Methods Clinical multicentric (center A, B and C) prospective study on 125 consecutive healthy patients undergoing thyroid scans for thyroid nodules. Normal functional thyroid status was assured by normal TSH, normal thyroid size, no thyroid antibodies and no symptoms of thyroid functional disorders. Calculations of raw Tc-uptake (uptake) and modified uptake values regarding current TSH value (uptakeTSH1), urinary iodine concentration (uptakeTSH1&uic), gland volume, age, smoking status, weight and tissue thickness ventral to the thyroid were performed.
Results There is a positive correlation of thyroid uptake with TSH allowing for the calculation of a normalized uptake value (uptakeTSH1). The normal range for uptakeTSH1 compares favourable to that for raw uptake in that it yields a clear distinction from thyroid functional disorders. The additional normalization for urinary iodine concentration (uptakeTSH1&uic) may even improve the distinctive power whereas further normalizations such as for gland volume, age and others are not warranted by this study. The 95% CI of uptakeTSH1 for sites A, A&B, and A&B&C were 0.21%–2.06%, 0.22%–2.38% and 0.24%–2.40%.
Conclusion A normal range for the thyroid uptake can be established with respect to the current TSH stimulation. This normalization (uptakeTSH1) overcomes the drawback of raw uptake by yielding a clinically useful parameter with obviously high distinctive power against functional thyroid disorders.
The Unusual Presentation of Bilateral Proptosis Presents a Dilemma in the Case of Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia
Authors: Gohatre Himanshu , Ambike Deepali , Deo Garima Singh , Kulkarni Rajesh , Patil Tushar 
Published: July 2024

AbstractJuvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) is a myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative neoplasm. It is a rare pediatric neoplasm occurring in early childhood. Herein, we present a case of JMML in a 4-year-old girl admitted for primary complaints of protrusion of eyes and fever for the past 15 days not responding to any medications. With findings of splenomegaly and peripheral blood smear showing severe leukocytosis and increased monocytoid and blast cells, a myelomonocytic series neoplasm was suspected. Abelson (Abl) tyrosine kinase gene break point cluster (Bcr) gene (BCR-ABL1) was found to be negative on fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Taking into consider all these findings, the patient was diagnosed with JMML. Since hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is not offered at our hospital, the patient was referred to another medical facility for the required procedure. This case highlights that bilateral proptosis could be a primary finding in early cases of JMML and should not be missed.
Neuroimmune circuits in the plaque and bone marrow regulate atherosclerosis
Authors: Gerhardt Teresa , Huynh Pacific , McAlpine Cameron S 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Atherosclerosis remains the leading cause of death globally. Although its focal pathology is atheroma that develops in arterial walls, atherosclerosis is a systemic disease involving contributions by many organs and tissues. It is now established that the immune system causally contributes to all phases of atherosclerosis. Recent and emerging evidence positions the nervous system as a key modulator of inflammatory processes that underlie atherosclerosis. This neuroimmune cross-talk, we are learning, is bidirectional, and immune-regulated afferent signalling is becoming increasingly recognized in atherosclerosis. Here, we summarize data and concepts that link the immune and nervous systems in atherosclerosis by focusing on two important sites, the arterial vessel and the bone marrow.
Quistclose trusts and green projects
Authors: Arvidsson Christopher 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
This article analyses the relevance of Quistclose trusts in a situation in which lenders make green finance available to borrowers for environmentally sound and sustainable projects. This examination highlights how a transaction can be structured to increase the likelihood of such a trust being recognised. This article will also consider green loans (as defined by the Loan Market Association) since these loans have characteristics that can indicate the presence of a Quistclose trust. Beyond the practical aspects of creating a trust, the article explores whether a Quistclose trust can be useful when money is lent for green projects. It is possible to question if Quistclose trusts can motivate borrowers to be more conscious of how they use the loan money. In particular, the article discusses whether the fiduciary duty regarding the use of the funds can strengthen the integrity of certain loans.
Epigenetics and aging: relevance for sleep medicine
Authors: Cortese Rene 
Published: July 2024

Purpose of review
Sleep disorders encompass a wide range of conditions with substantial individual variability. Epigenetics, the study of heritable changes beyond DNA sequence, offers a promising avenue for personalized medicine in this field.

Recent findings
There is great potential of epigenetic markers for sleep disorder diagnosis and the development of epigenetic drugs for targeted treatment. Epigenetic age acceleration, a marker of biological aging, is linked to sleep disorders and comorbidities. Very importantly, this acceleration may be reversible with effective treatment.

Summary
While the underlying mechanisms and assessment of clinical utility require further investigation, the potential of epigenetics in sleep medicine is recognized. Future research focused on closing knowledge gaps and clinical validation is crucial to translate these findings into practical applications, paving the way for more effective and personalized management of sleep disorders.
Integrating the value–belief–norm model and the theory of planned behavior for explaining consumers’ purchase intention of suboptimal food
Authors: Chen Mei-Fang 
Published: July 2024

PurposeMany studies have demonstrated that consumers tend to reject “suboptimal foods” (SF), despite the foods being suitable for human consumption. This study integrated the value–belief–norm (VBN) model and the theory of planned behavior (TPB) to analyze Taiwanese consumers’ purchase intention of SF and the factors that influence it, including values, beliefs, personal norms, attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control. The integrated model also considered the influences of consumers’ “motivations to reduce food waste” and “situational factors.”Design/methodology/approachWe surveyed 308 Taiwanese consumers by using an online Google Forms questionnaire. Structural equation modeling was performed to investigate the proposed integrated model.FindingsThe empirical results indicated that the integrated VBN and TPB model had high exploratory power for explaining consumers’ purchase intention of SF. Additionally, it revealed consumers’ personal norms and their motivations to reduce food waste to determine their attitude toward purchasing SF.Originality/valueIn addition to establishing an integrated VBN and TPB model, this study considered other factors that may influence consumers’ attitude toward purchasing SF. Our findings contribute to the understanding of Taiwanese consumers’ attitude toward and purchase intention of SF and identify relevant influencing factors. Our findings can be applied to foster appreciation among consumers toward SF and persuade them to purchase SF.
Stakeholders’ perceptions of occupational competency assessment and certification systems in Ethiopia’s TVET programs
Authors: Tekle Ashebir , Areaya Solomon , Habtamu Getachew 
Published: July 2024

PurposeThis research aims to explore stakeholder perspectives on Ethiopia’s occupational competency assessment and certification systems.Design/methodology/approachThe study utilized a mixed-methods strategy within a concurrent embedded design and adopted a pragmatic perspective. Data collection involved questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions, selecting respondents via purposive sampling for their significant experience and deep understanding of competency assessment. Analytical methods included descriptive and inferential statistics, as well as narrative techniques.FindingsThere is a generally positive perception of the value of competency assessments. However, the study finds several major limitations: inadequate candidate competency assessment, lack of skill gap analysis in TVET institutions for improved training, failure to maintain assessment standards, a high candidate-to-assessor ratio, and assessment tools that do not meet occupational standards. These issues show that the existing method misjudges TVET candidates' skills. To increase employer acceptance of competency assessments, the Center of Competence (CoC) agencies should integrate industry expertise, highlight their benefits, and emphasize the importance of training quality and career goals for candidates and trainers.Practical implicationsA study reveals that African nations like Ethiopia, Ghana, South Africa, Rwanda, Morocco, Benin, and Senegal have been implementing competency-based training (CBT) for around two decades, with support from countries like Canada, France, Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, Australia, Luxembourg, and Japan. However, the programs are often inconsistent and disorganized, with little private sector participation. There is a significant difference between the goals of quality assurance entities and the resources allocated. Although competency assessment is a fundamental part of CBT, there is a lack of research demonstrating its practice. Therefore, we conducted this research in Ethiopia, the second most densely populated nation in Africa. The results apply to other comparable nations implementing CBT programs (IIEP-UNESCO, 2021).Originality/valueThe research on stakeholders' perceptions of competency assessment is still in its early stages, with most studies focusing on training quality-related issues. This study expands on our knowledge of occupational competency assessment by analyzing perspectives from a comprehensive stakeholder perspective, considering contextualized assessment practices, addressing stakeholder needs, providing practical implications, and identifying future research directions. Furthermore, it offers valuable perspectives on developing competency-based education in Africa and other regions.