bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Blood fibroblast growth factor 23 concentration in cats with and without chronic kidney disease: a scoping review
Authors: Summers Stacie , Michael Helen T , Szlosek Donald , Mack Rebekah 
Published: April 2024

Objectives This study undertook a scoping review of research on blood fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23) concentrations in healthy non-azotemic cats and cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD) to describe the volume and nature of existing literature, to determine whether published studies provide adequate evidence to support the use of FGF-23 as a biomarker in clinical practice and to identify any existing gaps in knowledge. Methods PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines were used to design and perform the scoping review. Online databases were used to identify observational and clinical studies of blood FGF-23 concentrations in healthy cats and cats with CKD published before December 2022. Study and population characteristics and descriptive data on FGF-23 concentrations were extracted. Results A total of 205 publications were reviewed; 17 were retained for inclusion. Most studies were retrospective. Most studies included cats with International Renal Interest Society stage 2–4 CKD, with some variation. Key concepts explored in the literature include FGF-23 concentrations by CKD stage, effect of dietary phosphate restriction on FGF-23 concentrations, relationship between FGF-23 concentrations and blood phosphorus, calcium and magnesium concentrations, and FGF-23 concentrations in cats with progressive CKD. FGF-23 concentrations tended to be higher in cats with CKD compared with healthy cats, with an overlap between healthy and CKD populations, and there was significant variation within stages of CKD. Conclusions and relevance FGF-23 is a biomarker of interest for the management and monitoring of phosphate overload in cats. Studies support several potential clinical applications for measuring FGF-23 concentration in practice; however, evidence is limited. Research on FGF-23 in cats with CKD would benefit from longitudinal, prospective studies that standardize CKD diagnosis and categorize cats by stage using current guidelines. Studies should include cats with early-stage, non-azotemic CKD and use commercially available assays so such results are comparable across studies.
Understanding the Barriers and Facilitators of Digital Health Technology (DHT) Implementation in Neurological Rehabilitation: An Integrative Systematic Review
Authors: Jarvis Kathryn , Thetford Clare , Turck Edward , Ogley Kelly , Stockley Rachel C 
Published: April 2024

Background: Digital Health technologies (DHT) have potential to deliver intensive, novel and engaging rehabilitation for people with neurological conditions, yet health services lack a strong track record in embedding DHT into practice. The aim of this review was to synthesise factors that have been shown to influence implementation of DHT into neurological rehabilitation. Method: An integrative review was undertaken. An extensive search of MEDLINE, CINAHL, AMED, EMBASE was undertaken. The title and abstract of all retrieved sources were screened against pre-defined criteria. Retained sources underwent full text review. The quality of all included sources was assessed. A meta-ethnographic synthesis explored commonalities and contradictions of the included studies. Results: Fourteen studies (1 quantitative, 8 qualitative and 5 mixed methods) were included. Eleven implementation theories/models/frameworks were used across the 14 studies. Five themes were identified: (i) individual factors; (ii) user experience of the technology; (iii) the content of the intervention; (iv) access to the technology and (v) supporting use. Conclusions: Key factors which appear to influence the implementation of DHT into clinical settings are highlighted. Implementation theories, models and frameworks are under-utilised in DHT rehabilitation research. This needs to be addressed if DHT are to realise their potential in neurological rehabilitation. Registration: The protocol was registered and is available from PROSPERO (CRD42021268984).
Causal interpretation of the hazard ratio in randomized clinical trials
Authors: Fay Michael P , Li Fan 
Published: April 2024

Background: Although the hazard ratio has no straightforward causal interpretation, clinical trialists commonly use it as a measure of treatment effect. Methods: We review the definition and examples of causal estimands. We discuss the causal interpretation of the hazard ratio from a two-arm randomized clinical trial, and the implications of proportional hazards assumptions in the context of potential outcomes. We illustrate the application of these concepts in a synthetic model and in a model of the time-varying effects of COVID-19 vaccination. Results: We define causal estimands as having either an individual-level or population-level interpretation. Difference-in-expectation estimands are both individual-level and population-level estimands, whereas without strong untestable assumptions the causal rate ratio and hazard ratio have only population-level interpretations. We caution users against making an incorrect individual-level interpretation, emphasizing that in general a hazard ratio does not on average change each individual’s hazard by a factor. We discuss a potentially valid interpretation of the constant hazard ratio as a population-level causal effect under the proportional hazards assumption. Conclusion: We conclude that the population-level hazard ratio remains a useful estimand, but one must interpret it with appropriate attention to the underlying causal model. This is especially important for interpreting hazard ratios over time.
Closed reduction with percutaneous Kirschner wire fixation for delayed treatment of distal humeral epiphyseal fracture separation
Authors: Wu Xinwu , Wu Linkun , Canavese Federico , Huang Dianhua , Chen Shunyou 
Published: April 2024

Background: Fracture separation of the distal humeral epiphysis in children is a relatively uncommon injury, predominantly occurring in children under 3 years. It has a high risk of treatment delays. This study aims to evaluate outcomes in the management of fracture separation of the distal humeral epiphysis treated seven or more days post-initial injury. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients diagnosed with fracture separation of the distal humeral epiphysis between November 2016 and October 2023. Inclusion criteria encompassed patients with delayed presentation of fracture separation of the distal humeral epiphysis who underwent surgical intervention seven or more days following the initial injury. Demographic data were collected, and fractures were categorized using the modified DeLee classification. Plain radiographs facilitated the assessment of the carrying angle and postoperative Baumann angle. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the Flynn criteria. Results: The study included 12 patients who met the inclusion criteria. The average age at the time of injury was 1.59 years. According to the modified DeLee system, fracture classification identified one type I fracture, eight type II fractures, and three type III fractures. The average duration from injury to surgery was 11.8 days. The mean surgical duration was 21.5 min. The average follow-up period was 40.7 months. One patient exhibited cubitus varus development. Based on the Flynn criteria, outcomes were as follows: seven patients had excellent outcomes, four had good outcomes, and one had a poor outcome. Conclusion: Closed reduction with percutaneous K-wire fixation represents a minimally invasive approach suitable for children diagnosed with fracture separation of the distal humeral epiphysis seven or more days post-initial injury. Most of these patients experienced favorable outcomes. Level of evidence: IV
Arsenic Exposure in Well Water From the Perspective of Patients and Providers
Authors: Jegen Dominika , Maxson Julie , Fischer Karen , Bernard Matthew , Foss Randy , Hidaka Brandon , Passmore Rachael , Sosso Jessica , Stacey Stephen K. , Thacher Tom D. 
Published: April 2024

Background: Arsenic is a well-known toxin which may contaminate household water. It is harmful when ingested over prolonged periods of time. As a result, public health experts recommend that water should be screened and treated to prevent arsenic ingestion. In the United States, the responsibility of testing and treatment of private wells falls on homeowners. Despite recommendations for routine screening, this is rarely done. Objectives: To assess the prevalence of well water use in a Midwestern patient population, how patients and clinicians perceive the risks of arsenic in well water, and whether additional resources on well water testing are desired. These findings will be used to influence tools for clinicians regarding symptom and examination findings of chronic arsenic exposure and potentiate the distribution of informational resources on well water testing. Methods: Surveys were sent via email to all actively practicing primary care clinicians at the Mayo Clinic in the United States Midwest, and all active adult patients at the Mayo Clinic in the same region. Our team analyzed survey data to determine whether both patients and clinicians are aware of the health effects of chronic arsenic toxicity from well water, the need for routine well water testing and whether each group wants more information on the associated risks. Results: Both patients and primary care clinicians worry about arsenic exposure. Patients with well water are concerned about their water safety yet feel uninformed about testing options. Clinicians do not know how prevalent well water use is among their patients, feel uninformed about the chronic risks of arsenic exposure and the physical examination associated with it. Both groups unanimously want more information on testing options. Conclusions: Our findings show a significant reliance on well water use in the American Midwest, and unanimous support for the need for further well water testing information and resources for patients and their clinicians.
Perceptions and Experiences With Healthcare Providers Among People Navigating Reproductive and Fertility Decisions
Authors: Bornstein Marta , Church Anna C. , Masterson Kaleb , Norris Alison H. 
Published: April 2024

Objectives: Primary healthcare providers have an important role in helping people manage their reproductive health and fertility by assessing pregnancy intentions to inform the provision of contraception and/or preconception care. This study explores how women navigating fertility decisions perceived and experienced interactions with their healthcare providers around their fertility. Methods: We conducted in-depth interviews (N = 17) and focus groups (N = 17 groups) with 65 women aged 18 to 35 years about fertility, infertility, and reproductive planning. Two researchers coded 2 transcripts using thematic and inductive methods and met to develop a structured codebook. We then applied the codebook to the remaining transcripts. Results: In all interviews and focus groups, participants discussed their interactions with healthcare providers around fertility. Three central themes emerged in the data, including a desire for more information from healthcare providers about fertility; experiences of having fertility concerns dismissed by healthcare providers (eg, ability to become pregnant when desired); and, feelings that healthcare providers lacked sensitivity in discussing fertility related issues. Notably, these themes were present, even among participants who were not trying to become pregnant or who did not wish to become pregnant. Conclusion: Participants wanted information about fertility from their primary healthcare providers that they felt was lacking. Moreover, participants wanted their healthcare providers to engage with them as multifaceted individuals with current needs as well as future plans regarding fertility. While healthcare providers regularly assess pregnancy intentions, they may need to make a concerted effort to address fertility concerns among both those who want to pursue pregnancy and those who do not wish to become pregnant immediately.
Exploring the Role of Nurses in Advance Care Planning Within Long-Term Care Homes: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Punia Harveer , Kaasalainen Sharon , Ploeg Jenny , Strachan Patricia , Sussman Tamara 
Published: April 2024

Background Residents in long-term care homes (LTCHs) are often diagnosed with chronic, life-limiting illnesses, and it is now a common site to provide high levels of care and eventual death. There is an urgent need to address communication gaps and uncertainties surrounding resident's end of life preferences. Nurses are well situated to be key facilitators of necessary advance care planning (ACP), ensuring residents have discussions with family, substitute decision-makers and healthcare providers regarding future health and personal care preferences. However, LTCHs present unique challenges for nurses due to not only complex comorbidities but also staffing dynamics. Purpose This study explored the experiences and perceptions of Registered Nurses (RNs) and Registered Practical Nurse (RPNs) in LTCHs regarding their role in engaging residents and families in ACP discussions. Methods Qualitative interpretive descriptive methodology was used. Data were collected from two LTCHs in Southern Ontario with a sample of 15 nurses (7 RNs and 8 RPNs). Analysis involved review of semistructured interviews, field notes, and utilizing constant comparison within an inductive approach. Results Power and authority dynamics in LTCH's was an overarching theme in the data, with four subthemes: (1) Nurses lacking clarity about ACP, (2) nurses’ uncertainty regarding their role in ACP, (3) nurses feeling uncomfortable engaging in ACP discussions, and (4) nurses struggling to support families in ACP discussions. Conclusion Recommendations for nurses, healthcare providers, LTCH administrators, and policy makers include: (1) development of policies which support, from a systemic level, nurses to feel safe while engaging in ACP; (2) reassessing LTCH's hierarchical structure, and clarifying RN, RPN, and interdisciplinary team members roles in ACP; (3) developing culture change that allows a team and person-centered approach to ACP; and (4) providing ongoing education and mentorship for nurses to manage family dynamics and expand their understanding of ACP beyond a biomedical lens.
Kinase-inactivated CDK6 preserves the long-term functionality of adult hematopoietic stem cells
Authors: Mayer Isabella M. , Doma Eszter , Klampfl Thorsten , Prchal-Murphy Michaela , Kollmann Sebastian , Schirripa Alessia , Scheiblecker Lisa , Zojer Markus , Kunowska Natalia , Gebrail Lea , Shaw Lisa E. , Mann Ulrike , Farr Alex , Grausenburger Reinhard , Heller Gerwin , Zebedin-Brandl Eva , Farlik Matthias , Malumbres Marcos , Sexl Veronika , Kollmann Karoline 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are characterized by the ability to self-renew and to replenish the hematopoietic system. The cell-cycle kinase cyclin-dependent kinase 6 (CDK6) regulates transcription, whereby it has both kinase-dependent and kinase-independent functions. Herein, we describe the complex role of CDK6, balancing quiescence, proliferation, self-renewal, and differentiation in activated HSCs. Mouse HSCs expressing kinase-inactivated CDK6 show enhanced long-term repopulation and homing, whereas HSCs lacking CDK6 have impaired functionality. The transcriptomes of basal and serially transplanted HSCs expressing kinase-inactivated CDK6 exhibit an expression pattern dominated by HSC quiescence and self-renewal, supporting a concept, in which myc-associated zinc finger protein (MAZ) and nuclear transcription factor Y subunit alpha (NFY-A) are critical CDK6 interactors. Pharmacologic kinase inhibition with a clinically used CDK4/6 inhibitor in murine and human HSCs validated our findings and resulted in increased repopulation capability and enhanced stemness. Our findings highlight a kinase-independent role of CDK6 in long-term HSC functionality. CDK6 kinase inhibition represents a possible strategy to improve HSC fitness.
NEAT1 inhibits the angiogenic activity of cerebral arterial endothelial cells by inducing the M1 polarization of microglia through the AMPK signaling pathway
Authors: Chen Ting , Huang Xin , Zhao Yi-Xuan , Zhou Zhi-wen , Zhou Wen-sheng 
Published: April 2024

AbstractBackgroundEnhancing angiogenesis may be an effective strategy to promote functional recovery after ischemic stroke. Inflammation regulates angiogenesis. Microglia are crucial cells that initiate inflammatory responses after various brain injuries. Long noncoding RNA nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1) plays a role in regulating brain injury. This study aimed to explore the effects of NEAT1-regulated microglial polarization on the neovascularization capacity of cerebrovascular endothelial cells and the underlying molecular regulatory mechanisms.MethodsMouse cerebral arterial endothelial cells (mCAECs) were co-cultured with BV-2 cells in different groups using a Transwell system. NEAT1 expression levels were measured by fluorescence quantitative reverse transcription PCR. Levels of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, Arg-1, IL-4, and IL-10 were determined using ELISA. Expression levels of CD86 and CD163 were detected by immunofluorescence. The neovascularization capacity of mCAECs was assessed using CCK-8, Transwell, Transwell-matrigel, and tube formation assays. Label-free quantification proteomics was carried out to identify differentially expressed proteins. Protein levels were measured by Western blotting.ResultsNEAT1 overexpression induced M1 polarization in BV-2 cells, whereas NEAT1 knockdown blocked lipopolysaccharide-induced M1 polarization in microglia. NEAT1-overexpressing BV-2 cells suppressed the angiogenic ability of mCAECs, and NEAT1-knocking BV-2 cells promoted the angiogenic ability of mCAECs under lipopolysaccharide treatment. Label-free quantitative proteomic analysis identified 144 upregulated and 131 downregulated proteins that were induced by NEAT1 overexpression. The AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathway was enriched in the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis of the differentially expressed proteins. Further verification showed that NEAT1 inactivated the AMPK signaling pathway. Moreover, the AMPK activator 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide reversed the effect of NEAT1 on BV-2 polarization and the regulatory effect of NEAT1-overexpressing BV-2 cells on the angiogenic ability of mCAECs.ConclusionsNEAT1 inhibits the angiogenic activity of mCAECs by inducing M1 polarization of BV-2 cells through the AMPK signaling pathway. This study further clarified the impact and mechanism of NEAT1 on microglia and the angiogenic ability of cerebrovascular endothelial cells.
Controllable quantum scars induced by spin–orbit couplings in quantum dots
Authors: Zhang Lin , Hu Yutao , Yao Zhao , Liu Xiaochi , Luo Wenchen , Sun Kehui , Chakraborty Tapash 
Published: April 2024

AbstractSpin–orbit couplings (SOCs), originating from the relativistic corrections in the Dirac equation, offer nonlinearity in the classical limit and are capable of driving chaotic dynamics. In a nanoscale quantum dot confined by a two-dimensional parabolic potential with SOCs, various quantum scar states emerge quasi-periodically in the eigenstates of the system, when the ratio of confinement energies in the two directions is nearly commensurable. The scars, displaying both quantum interference and classical trajectory features on the electron density, due to relativistic effects, serve as a bridge between the classical and quantum behaviors of the system. When the strengths of Rashba and Dresselhaus SOCs are identical, the chaos in the classical limit is eliminated as the classical Hamilton’s equations become linear, leading to the disappearance of all quantum scar states. Importantly, the quantum scars induced by SOCs are robust against small perturbations of system parameters. With precise control achievable through external gating, the quantum scar induced by Rashba SOC is fully controllable and detectable.
Are micro-/mesocosm studies really not suitable for the risk assessment of plant protection products? A comment on Reiber et al. (2022)
Authors: Hommen Udo , Brown Marie , Bruns Eric , Ebke Klaus Peter , Roessink Ivo , Strauss Tido , Taylor Nadine 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background
A recently published article, by Reiber et al., on the representativity of macroinvertebrate communities in outdoor micro- or mesocosm studies, used as a higher tier tool in the environmental risk assessment of plant protection products (PPPs) in the EU, concluded that ‘micro-/mesocosm studies do not represent natural macroinvertebrate communities’. Fundamentally, the article based its conclusion on the analysis of data from 26 streams used in a monitoring project in Germany (2018–2019), in comparison to taxa found in seven lentic micro- and mesocosm studies, conducted at four test sites (2013 – 2018), and submitted to the UBA, Germany.

Results
There are multiple reasons why this conclusion is incorrect, e.g. the number of taxa, for which the Minimum Detectable Differences (MDDs) were low enough to allow a detection of direct effects in the seven lentic mesocosm studies, cannot be compared to the number of taxa just present in at least five of 26 streams. We have further investigated the data from five of the seven studies which were analysed in detail by Reiber et al. and determined that the MDDs of 12 to 18 invertebrate taxa per study fulfilled the current recommendation to allow a detection of medium effects (MDD up to 70%). However, which taxa can be considered potentially sensitive depends on the specific test item. While lentic test systems may not be suitable to test effects on typical stream taxa, taxa occurring in lentic systems such as ponds and ditches are not by definition less sensitive, or vulnerable, to pesticides than taxa living in streams, and their relative sensitivity can be checked in laboratory tests, or artificial streams, if needed.

Conclusions
In our view, well conducted micro- and mesocosm studies do provide reliable and useful data for the environmental risk assessment of plant protection products covering long-term, as well as indirect, effects under semi-natural conditions.