bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Development and validation of AAI-CHN: a index to assess active aging in China
Authors: Guo Jiru , Zhang Xiaoli , Chen Longyin 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
China faces significant challenges due to its aging population, impacting economic, social, health, and employment sectors, as well as global trends. Active aging is both a new research paradigm and a national strategy in China. Although the WHO has defined active aging, its application and measurement in China remain difficult.
Methods
Through a literature review, we identified the concept and structure of active aging in China and developed an initial item pool using data from the 2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (N = 10,818). Those processes, including project analysis, exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, reliability analysis, and weight calculation, resulted in the development of the AAI-CHN. Additionally, we examined active aging levels in China from 2011 to 2018.
Results
The scale includes six dimensions: physical health, mental health, social participation, economic status, physical environment, and social security. It comprises 19 factors and 63 items, demonstrating good reliability and validity. Analysis from 2011 to 2018 indicated that active aging scores in China ranged from 39 to 48, showing a generally low level with significant regional differences. Scores across dimensions varied from 0.1 to 70, reflecting considerable heterogeneity.
Conclusions
The AAI-CHN is a reliable and valid scale. It provides empirical evidence on active aging in China and suggests policy directions. Despite being a national strategy, achieving comprehensive active aging for the elderly requires more effort.
Assessment of the Friction Angle of Sand at the Interface of Various Construction Materials
Authors: Rahman S M Shazeebur , Raju Matiur Rahman , Haque Md. Foisal , Sajib Shahbo Rahman , Kabir Md. Humayun 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

This study compares the internal friction angle of sand at interface with different construction materials of concrete, steel, and wood. Material properties have been determined by the direct shear and pile model tests in the laboratory. Impacts of shearing rates of sand and other materials at interface were examined by the direct shear test. Pile model tests were conducted based on similar loading rates of direct shear test. According to the experimental results, a straight line of semi-logarithmic plot represents relationship among internal friction angle, interface friction angle and the shearing rate. In addition, shearing rate is increased with the enlargement of the pile diameter. Also, the interface friction angle is increased by the incremental variations of the internal friction angle of sand. Interface angles of various construction materials are less than the internal friction angle of sand because of the fluctuation of the shearing rate. However, it can be said that the interface angle depends proportionally on the roughness of materials, shearing rate, and pile diameter.
Utilizing hybrid MCDM models for analyzing UAV swarm
Authors: Tsuei Hung-Jia , Tzeng Gwo-Hshiung 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) swarm can not only carry out tasks in dangerous or inaccessible areas, but also reduce the cost and simplify the manpower required. Multiple criteria decision making (MCDM) is rarely used to explore UAV swarm; therefore, the purpose of this research is to construct a decision model for evaluating and improving criteria of UAV swarm. To probe into the interrelationship and influential weights of criteria, this study utilizes hybrid MCDM models including decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) to investigate the interdependent problems among criteria for establishing the influential network relation map (INRM), and DEMATEL-based analytic network process (DANP) to obtain the influential weights. According to DEMATEL technique, the results indicate that criteria of UAV swarm have self-effect relationships. The dimension of UAV swarm that should be improved first when increasing the performance is entity based on the INRM. In the four criteria for evaluation by DANP, the criterion of vulnerability has the highest influential weight, followed by connectivity, vehicle, and communication. This paper uses hybrid MCDM models and investigates the standpoints of experts to make up the insufficiency in UAV swarm.
Serum calcium level at 32 weeks of gestation could be applied as a predictor of preterm delivery: a retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Jingjing , Fan Chong , Xu Chenyang , Zhang Yuhan , Liu Jingyan , Zhou Chunxiu , Feng Shanwu , Fan Yuru 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Preterm delivery (PTD) leads to severe adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes and larger medical costs. Thus, PTD deserves more attention. However, how to predict PTD is a problem that bothers researcher. This study aimed to investigate potential prenatal predictors of PTD. We retrospectively recruited pregnant women who experienced either PTD or term delivery (TD) and underwent laboratory examinations at 32 weeks of gestation. We compared the test results between the two groups and performed logistic regression analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis to identify risk factors and predictive factors for PTD. We found that the PTD group had significantly higher levels of lymphocyte count, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, calcium, uric acid, alkaline phosphatase, triglycerides, and total bile acids. On the other hand, mean corpuscular volume, homocysteine, neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), monocyte to lymphocyte ratio (MLR), neutrophils to (white blood cells - neutrophils) ratio (dNLR), and (neutrophils × monocytes) to lymphocyte ratio (SIRI) were significantly lower in the PTD group. ROC curve analysis revealed that calcium had an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.705, with a cut-off value of 2.215. Logistic regression analysis showed that premature rupture of membranes was an independent risk factor for PTD. Our study demonstrated that serum calcium levels, NLR, dNLR, and other laboratory tests conducted at 32 weeks of gestation can serve as predictors for PTD. Furthermore, we identified premature rupture of membranes as a risk factor for PTD.
Excess mortality and changes in causes of death in Estonia during the Covid-19 pandemic (years 2020 and 2021)
Authors: Pärna Grete , Lang Katrin , Kalda Ruth 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study was to describe the changes in the mortality statistics in Estonia during the period of the Covid-19 pandemic (years 2020 and 2021) in terms of excess mortality and the occurrence of causes of death.
Methods: The present study is based on retrospective data obtained from the Estonian Causes of Death Registry and the Statistics Estonia database. Data from the period before the pandemic (01.01.2018–31.12.2019) and the two years of the pandemic (2020 and 2021) were compared. In order to compare mortality in different periods, mortality rates were calculated by gender and age group, and incidence rate ratios were used to determine differences between the periods. Excess mortality was expressed as a percentage based on the incidence rate ratio. Mortality patterns were described according to gender and age group using a change point regression model. To analyze the causes of death, the incidence rate ratios by a given period and primary causes of death groups were found.
Results: The study results indicated that the mortality rate in 2020 did not significantly differ from the mortality rate in the reference period. Excess mortality occurred in 2021 and was 15%. Excess mortality in 2021 was mainly caused by increased mortality among men aged 35–54 and ≥50 years and women aged ≥50 years. There have been changes in mortality rate trends that do not exactly coincide with the period of the Covid-19 pandemic. In older age groups, the downward trend of mortality has stopped. Several primary causes of death had significantly higher mortality rates during the pandemic years compared to the reference period.
Conclusions: Covid-19 pandemic has had both a direct and an indirect impact on the health and mortality of the Estonian population. Given that Covid-19 continues to spread and comprehensive knowledge of its long-term effects is still limited, continued analysis will be necessary to assess the pandemic's impact on the population's health indicators.
Mild Encephalitis/Encephalopathy with a Reversible Splenial Lesion After Varicella Zoster Virus
Authors: Fei Yunhan , Yu Jiannan , Ji Xiang , Ding Weiliang , Liu Wandi , Zhu Zilong , Zhao Wenjuan 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Mild encephalitis/encephalopathy with a reversible splenial lesion (MERS) is a clinical-imaging syndrome involving the splenium of the corpus callosum(SCC) that is relatively rare and diverse in its clinical manifestations. The most common pathogens are influenza A and B viruses, as well as rotavirus, measles virus, adenovirus, streptococcus, and Escherichia coli. MERS caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Leptospira, and cerebral malaria infections is relatively rare, and there has been no research on herpes zoster virus causing MERS.
Case description
A Chinese young man was hospitalized in the emergency department due to mental and behavioral changes on the fourth day after fever. The patient's cerebrospinal fluid metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) results showed positive for varicella zoster virus (VZV). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a lesion with restricted diffusion in the corpus callosum. He did not show any skin blisters. He neurological symptoms resolved after 2 days, and after 4 weeks, the brain lesion was not detected on MRI.
Conclusion
The varicella zoster virus can cause MERS, with clinical manifestations mainly including headache, irritability, and other mental and behavioral abnormalities. Patients may not have the skin manifestations of varicella zoster.
Organic amendments with low C/N ratios enhanced the deposition of crop root exudates into stable soil organic carbon in a sodic soil
Authors: Li Jingwang , Chen Lin , Zhang Congzhi , Han Changdong , Feng Biao , Ma Donghao , Zhou Guixiang , zhang jiabao 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Numerous studies have demonstrated the enhancement effects of organic amendment additions on soil organic carbon (SOC) accumulation in agroecosystems. However, the effects of different organic amendment types on stable SOC formation through belowground inputs remain poorly understood, especially under stress conditions. This study aims to investigate the effects of three organic amendment types, namely lignin- (LDA), humus- (HDA), and vetch-derived (VDA) organic amendments, on the transformation process of 13C-rhizodeposits into SOC in sodic soil. Our results showed that the nitrogen (N) compounds in the organic amendments accounted for 0, 6.21, and 11.37% of the LDA, HDA, and VDA, respectively. Organic amendments with low C/N ratios (HDA and VDA) enhanced the transformation of 13C-rhizodeposits into SOC, particularly into mineral-associated carbon (13C-MAOC). In addition, HDA and VDA substantially decreased the exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP) and increased the soil nutrient contents (e.g., total N and total phosphorus) compared with LDA, providing more favorable environmental conditions for both the crop and rhizosphere microbial growth. These effects, consequently, enhanced the disposition of the crop root exudates into 13C-MAOC in the sodic soil. Furthermore, compared with LDA, HDA and VDA enriched beneficial bacteria (e.g., Bacillaceae and Vermamoebidae) and inhibited pathogenic bacteria (Burkholderiaceae) through potential cross-trophic interactions, promoting crop growth and enhancing the production of root exudate deposition into 13C-MAOC. Our study provides a novel approach to selecting organic amendments with suitable and effective chemical structures to promote stable SOC formation through belowground inputs, especially under sodic conditions.
Expression and prognostic value of hsa-miR-206 in non-triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Dong-Ning HE , GU Ze-Hui , Tan Qi , CHEN Su-Xian , Ya-Di WANG 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Objective
This study aims to analyze the expression and prognostic value of hsa-miR-206 in non-triple-negative breast cancer.
Methods
The expression of has-miR-206 in breast cancer and normal breast tissues was analyzed using the dbDEMC 2.0 database. The TCGA dataset was used to verify hsa-miR-206 expression and analyze its role in breast cancer pathways. In situ hybridization was conducted on tissue microarrays comprising 80 breast cancer specimens and corresponding paracancerous tissues. The relationship between hsa-miR-206 expression and the clinicopathological features of patients with non-triple-negative breast cancer was assessed. Patients were divided into high and low-expression groups based on hsa-miR-206 expression levels, and survival curves were plotted. Online TCGA data analysis was performed to determine intersecting genes and action pathways of hsa-miR-206, with further STRING network analysis to explore possible mechanisms involving hsa-miR-206-related intersecting genes.
Results
The dbDEMC 2.0 and TCGA database and in situ hybridization assay confirmed significantly lower hsa-miR-206 expression in breast cancer tissues compared to paracancerous tissues. In the luminal A subtype, hsa-miR-206 expression was markedly lower in ER-positive human breast cancer tissues than in paracancerous tissues. In the HER2+ subtype, the positive expression rate of hsa-miR-206 in cancerous tissues was 28%, while that in paracancerous tissues was 72%. Patients under 50 years old showed significantly lower positive expression rates. Additionally, hsa-miR-206 expression level correlated significantly with histological grade and Ki-67 expression but not with tumor size or sex hormone receptor status. Kaplan–Meier Plotter analysis of the TCGA and METABRIC databases indicated that patients with low hsa-miR-206 expression had longer overall survival (OS). Subtype-specific analysis showed varying OS benefits: longer OS in luminal A and B breast cancer with low hsa-miR-206 and a slight increase in OS in HER2+ breast cancer. Target genes regulated by hsa-miR-206 were linked to cell cycle and estrogen signaling pathways.
Conclusion
Downregulation of hsa-miR-206 expression in breast cancer may prolong patient OS. Hsa-miR-206 plays distinct roles across breast cancer subtypes, potentially through different target genes affecting cell cycle and estrogen signaling, which underscore its prognostic implications.
Host diversity of Aedes albopictus in relation to invasion history: a meta-analysis of blood feeding studies
Authors: Garamszegi László Zsolt 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
The invasive mosquito Aedes albopictus is a major concern for human and animal health given its high potential to spread over large geographic distances, to adopt to various habitats and food sources and to act as vector for pathogens. It is crucial to understand how this species establishes ecological relationships at different locations, as it determines its role in transmission of diseases.
Methods
Based on published blood-meal surveys, a meta-analysis was performed to investigate how host diversity changes along the process of invasion at a large scale. For 43 independent localities, Shannon diversity index was calculated and was then assessed against several moderator variables describing invasion status, habitat type, methodology and survey year.
Results
Diet diversity was higher in the invasive than in the native populations when the strong habitat effects were held constant. Furthermore, the year of introduction also had a significant role, as invasive populations that had been established earlier had wider diet diversity than more recent populations.
Conclusions
Invasive Aedes albopictus has a considerable ecological flexibility. The species’ ability to adapt to various food sources goes hand in hand with its successful worldwide dispersion, which has strong implications for its role played in pathogen transmission.
Mechanical insufflation-exsufflation in a large multicenter cohort of people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) - provision, perceived cough deficiency and treatment satisfaction.
Authors: Maier André , Kettemann Dagmar , Weyen Ute , Grehl Torsten , Schulte Peter Caspar , Steinbach Robert , Rödiger Annekathrin , Weydt Patrick , Petri Susanne , Wolf Joachim , Grosskreutz Julian , Koch Jan Christoph , Weishaupt Jochen H , Rosseau Simone , Norden Jenny , Körtvélyessy Peter , Koch Birgit , Holm Teresa , Hildebrandt Barbara , Schumann Peggy , Walter Bertram , Riitano Alessio , Münch Christoph , Meyer Thomas , Spittel Susanne 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

In patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), mechanical insufflation-exsufflation (MI-E) addresses cough deficiency to achieve major therapeutic goals: improving costal muscle and joint function, reducing atelectasis through insufflation, and clearing bronchial secretions via exsufflation. Despite its perceived benefits, there is limited systematic research on MI-E provision, symptom alleviation, or patient satisfaction. The research platform Ambulanzpartner coordinated this longitudinal observational study conducted in 12 German ALS centers from July 2018 to September 2023. Patients were enrolled based on ALS-related cough deficiency requiring MI-E therapy. The study recorded provision, reasons for withholding MI-E, clinical parameters, therapy frequency, subjective cough deficiency, and symptomatic relief. Satisfaction with MI-E therapy was determined by the likelihood of recommendation. Out of 694 ALS patients indicated for MI-E, 527 (75.9%) received the therapy. The primary reason for non-provision was that the patient had died before provision (n = 66 of 167; 39.5%). These patients were significantly more affected as represented by higher progression rates and lower peak cough flows (PCF) at the time of MI-E indication (p < 0.05). Most patients who received MI-E used it daily (n = 290 of 370; 78.4%). Self-assessed cough deficiency correlated with clinical measurements, especially for patients with higher deficits. At follow-up visits, patients reported reduced cough deficiency (p < 0.001). Frequent MI-E use was linked to greater symptom relief and higher likelihood of recommending the therapy. This study highlights symptomatic and palliative potential of MI-E therapy for ALS patients.
Psychometric properties of the Czech Moral Injury Symptom Scale
Authors: Vlckova Karolina , Janouskova Miroslava , Bankovska-Motlova Lucie 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Moral injury is defined as a deep sense of transgression, including feelings of shame, grief, meaninglessness, and remorse from having violated core moral beliefs. This study aimed to adapt the Moral Injury Symptom Scale – Healthcare Professionals (MISS-HP) for measure this concept in the Czech Republic and explore its psychometric properties. Sample of healthcare providers (N= 694) completed the MISS-HP questionnaires, the Shirom Melamed Burnout Measure (SMBM) and the Professional Quality of Life scale (PROQoL). Cronbach´s alpha of MISS-HP was found to be 0.62; exploratory factor analysis returned 4 factors. Correlations with SMBM and PROQoL were moderate (from 0.31-0.46), which confirmed the construct validity of MISS-HP. ROC curve analysis identified the optimal cutoff score at 42 points with 75% sensitivity and 69% specificity. Female gender, younger age and atheism were related to higher symptoms of moral injury. Czech MISS-HP was found to be a valid and reliable measure of moral injury.
"I Have to Pick My Battles": A Mixed-Methods Study Exploring Food Insecurity and Dietary Restrictions in Pediatric Kidney Disease
Authors: Krissberg Jill , Jones Mickayla , Guzman Zecilly , Chen Wenya , Sheehan Karen , Verghese Priya S 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Food insecurity (FI) is prevalent among children with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and kidney failure, but it’s impact on health outcomes, and feasibility of prescribed diet restrictions is unknown.
Methods
A mixed-methods single center cohort study of children with advanced CKD or kidney failure. Demographics, socioeconomic status, and health outcomes were compared across FI status; associations between FI and CKD outcomes were explored using multivariable regression. A qualitative sub-analysis of de-identified caregiver interview transcripts were analyzed for themes around diet restrictions.
Results
There was a trend that FI patients were more likely to be of Black race (33% vs 20%); have public insurance (67% vs 48%); need more blood pressure medications (2 [0.75,3] vs 1 [0,3]); and have a higher likelihood of emergency department (42% vs 25%) or intensive care unit encounters (25% vs 14%). There were no associations of FI and outcomes of interest in multivariate regression. Four major themes emerged from caregiver interviews: 1. Understanding of the kidney diet focuses on foods to avoid; 2. Adapting to suggested dietary restrictions requires changes in meal preparation; 3. Challenges to adherence include social stigma, growth, budget, and time, and 4. Increased public awareness of CKD may help improve adherence.
Conclusion
The impact of FI on children’s medical needs with CKD remains inconclusive but trends suggest a higher risk. Regardless of FI status, adhering to prescribed diet restrictions in kidney disease involves significant dedication of time, and resources, while challenges involve food availability, child’s response to restrictions, and social stigma.
Benvitimod Upregulates Filaggrin, Involucrin and Loricrin Expressions via Arylhydrocarbon Receptor-Ovo-Like 1 Axis
Authors: Jia Qiuyu , Liu Ping , Wang Xiaojie , Hu Jian , Jia Jun , Zhang Jianzhong , Li Houmin 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background: Benvitimod has been successfully used in the treatment of psoriasis and atopic dermatitis (AD). However, the mechanism remains to be clarified.
Objectives: We aim to assess the effects of benvitimod on MC903-induced dermatitis in mice and to investigate the effects of benvitimod on filaggrin (FLG), involucrin (IVL), and loricrin (LOR) expressions in vivo and in vitro.
Methods: MC903-induced mouse AD model was used to evaluate the effects of benvitimod. Filaggrin, involucrin, and loricrin protein and mRNA expressions in lesions of mice dermatitis were measured by Western blot and quantitative real-time PCR. Normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEKs) were cultured. AHR or OVOL1 were knocked down in NHEKs. Then filaggrin, involucrin, and loricrin expressions were measured by Western blot and quantitative real-time PCR.
Results：Topical treatment of benvitimod repaired skin barrier and alleviated skin inflammation in mouse AD model. This effect was inhibited by pretreatment with an AHR antagonist. Benvitimod upregulated the filaggrin, involucrin, and loricrin expressions in lesions of mouse AD model. In addition, benvitimod upregulated the filaggrin, involucrin, and loricrin expressions in NHEKs. Knockdown of AHR or OVO-like (OVOL)1 abrogated the upregulation of filaggrin, involucrin, and loricrin induced by benvitimod.
Conclusions: Benvitimod attenuated MC903-induced mouse dermatitis and upregulated filaggrin, involucrin, and loricrin expressions via AHR-OVOL1 axis.