bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Corticotropin‐releasing hormone and obesity: From fetal life to adulthood
Authors: Vasconcelos Inês , von Hafe Madalena , Adão Rui , Leite‐Moreira Adelino , Brás‐Silva Carmen 
Published: May 2024

SummaryObesity is among the most common chronic disorders, worldwide. It is a complex disease that reflects the interactions between environmental influences, multiple genetic allelic variants, and behavioral factors. Recent developments have also shown that biological conditions in utero play an important role in the programming of energy homeostasis systems and might have an impact on obesity and metabolic disease risk. The corticotropin‐releasing hormone (CRH) family of neuropeptides, as a central element of energy homeostasis, has been evaluated for its role in the pathophysiology of obesity. This review aims to summarize the relevance and effects of the CRH family of peptides in the pathophysiology of obesity spanning from fetal life to adulthood.
The effect of landing zone toricity on scleral lens fitting characteristics and optics
Authors: Alexander Julian , Belaineh Aweke Yabkal , Bhebhe Zibonele , Cho David , Lay Steven , Ryan Isaac , Collins Michael J. , Vincent Stephen J. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractPurposeThe fit and optical performance of a scleral lens is affected by the alignment of the landing zone with the underlying ocular surface. The aim of this research was to quantify the effect of landing zone toricity upon scleral lens fitting characteristics (rotation and decentration) and optics (lens flexure) during short‐term wear.MethodsScleral lenses with nominal landing zone toricities of 0, 100, 150 and 200 μm were worn in a randomised order by 10 young healthy participants (mean [SD] 24 [7] years) for 30 min, with other lens parameters held constant. Scleral toricity was quantified using a corneo‐scleral profilometer, and lens flexure, rotation, and decentration were quantified using over‐topography during lens wear. Repeated measures analyses were conducted as a function of landing zone toricity and residual scleral toricity (the difference between scleral and lens toricity) for eyes with ‘low’ magnitude scleral toricity (mean: 96 μm) and ‘high’ magnitude scleral toricity (mean: 319 μm).ResultsToric landing zones significantly reduced lens flexure (by 0.37 [0.21] D, p < 0.05) and lens rotation (by 20 [24]°, p < 0.05) compared with a spherical landing zone. Horizontal and vertical lens decentration did not vary significantly with landing zone toricity. These trends for flexure, rotation, and decentration were also observed for eyes with ‘low’ and ‘high’ magnitude scleral toricity as a function of residual scleral toricity.ConclusionLanding zones with 100–200 μm toricity significantly reduced lens flexure (by ~62%) and rotation (by ~77%) but not horizontal or vertical lens decentration, compared with a spherical landing zone, when controlling for other confounding variables. The incorporation of a toric landing zone, even for eyes with lower magnitude scleral toricity (~100 μm), may be beneficial, particularly for front surface optical designs.
SSR‐based analysis of structural variation of the Russian population of Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici in 2019–2021
Authors: Gultyaeva Elena I. , Shaydayuk Ekaterina L. , Kosman Evsey Gregory 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe importance of monitoring and management of yellow rust, caused by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst), has markedly increased in Russia over recent years because of intensifying negative effects of this destructive disease on wheat production. The Pst virulence survey was conducted in 2019–2021 in the European (North‐West, Volga, North Caucasus) and Asian (Siberia) parts of Russia, and the same 109 isolates have been genotyped here with 20 SSR markers. Fifty‐three multilocus genotypes (MLGs) were detected, seven of which occurred in two or more regions. The most frequent MLG was found in three European Pst collections (except Dagestan) and Siberia. SSR‐based variation within the regional collections was low because many MLGs were closely related. Nevertheless, each collection contained relatively different small genotype groups. No clear geographic structure of the Russian Pst population was observed because the five studied regional collections shared groups of similar genotypes. The most singular SSR genotype was identified in the North‐West collection, but genotypes of four invasive isolates belonging to the PstS2 temperature‐adapted aggressive strain did not considerably differ from others. The observed heterozygosity at all SSR loci exceeded the expected one in all regional Pst collections, which could imply asexual reproduction of the pathogen. Both the SSR and virulence analyses demonstrated similar patterns of relationships between the regional Pst collections, although the magnitude of differences between the collections was larger for virulence pathotypes. However, no significant association was established between the virulence pathotypes and SSR genotypes because multiple pathotypes had the same genotype and vice versa.
Prevalence and factors associated with probable depression among the oldest old during the Covid‐19 pandemic: evidence from the large, nationally representative ‘Old Age in Germany (D80+)’ study
Authors: Hajek André , König Hans‐Helmut , Sutin Angelina R. , Terracciano Antonio , Luchetti Martina , Stephan Yannick , Gyasi Razak M. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackgroundTo date, most studies examining the prevalence and determinants of depression among individuals aged 80 and over have used geographically limited samples that are not generalisable to the wider population. Thus, our aim was to identify the prevalence and the factors associated with probable depression among the oldest old in Germany based on nationally representative data.MethodsData were taken from the nationally representative ‘Old Age in Germany (D80+)’ study (n = 8386; November 2020 to April 2021) covering both community‐dwelling and institutionalised individuals aged 80 and over. The Short Form of the Depression in Old Age Scale was used to quantify probable depression.ResultsProbable depression was found in 40.7% (95% CI: 39.5% to 42.0%) of the sample; 31.3% were men (95% CI: 29.7% to 32.9%) and 46.6% women (95% CI: 44.9% to 48.3%). The odds of probable depression were positively associated with being female (odds ratio (OR): 1.55, 95% CI: 1.30 to 1.84), being divorced (compared to being married, OR: 1.33, 95% CI: 1.01 to 1.76), being widowed (OR: 1.14, 95% CI: 1.00 to 1.30), having a low education (e.g., medium education compared to low education, OR: 0.86, 95% CI: 0.74 to 0.99), living in an institutionalised setting (OR: 2.36, 95% CI: 1.84 to 3.02), living in East Germany (OR: 1.21, 95% CI, 1.05 to 1.39), not having German citizenship (German citizenship compared to other citizenship, OR: 0.55, 95% CI: 0.31 to 0.95), poor self‐rated health (OR: 0.31, 95% CI: 0.28 to 0.34), and the number of chronic conditions (OR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.09 to 1.14).ConclusionAbout four out of 10 individuals aged 80 and over in Germany had probable depression, underlining the importance of this challenge. Knowledge of specific risk factors for this age group may assist in addressing older adults at risk of probable depression.
Anal dysplasia and anal cancer screening practices among liver transplant centers in the United States: Results of an online survey
Authors: Moughames Eric , Abdi Maaza , Morris Bridget , Fang Sandy , Jones Joyce , Durand Christine M. , Cochran Willa , Ribas Eduardo F. , McLean‐Powell Charlee , Gurakar Ahmet , Buchwald Ulrike K. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackgroundSolid organ transplant recipients are at an increased risk for anogenital Human Papillomavirus (HPV)‐related disease, including anal high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) and anal squamous cell cancer (ASCC). Guidelines for ASCC screening in transplant recipients are limited. Our aim was to understand current practice of ASCC screening in adult liver transplant (LT) candidates and recipients at transplant centers across the United States.MethodsWe surveyed medical directors of 113 LT centers across the United States which had publicly available contact information. The survey evaluated center perceptions on cancer and HPV disease risk in transplant populations, ASCC screening, barriers and facilitators for ASCC screening and HPV vaccination practices.ResultsWe received 26/113 (23%) responses, of which 24 were complete and included in the analysis. Eleven of 24 (46%) centers reported screening for ASCC and 3/24 (12.5%) centers reported having formal guidelines. Centers who perform ASCC screening were more likely to perform transplants in people living with HIV and were more aware of the burden of HPV disease in transplant populations. All respondents believed that additional data on the impact of screening on ASCC incidence would support screening decisions. Increased access to specialists for screening/high‐resolution anoscopy was also perceived as a facilitator. Only 7/24 (29%) centers regularly evaluated HPV vaccination status of their patients.ConclusionThis national survey of LT centers reveals non‐standardized ASCC screening practices, and identified data, educational and resource needs to improve prevention of ASCC in this population.
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MtPIN4 plays critical roles in amino acid biosynthesis and metabolism of seed in Medicago truncatula
Authors: Jiang Hongjiao , Xie Lijun , Gu Zhiqun , Mei Hongyao , Wang Haohao , Zhang Jing , Wang Minmin , Xu Yiteng , Zhou Chuanen , Han Lu 
Published: May 2024

SUMMARYThe regulation of seed development is critical for determining crop yield. Auxins are vital phytohormones that play roles in various aspects of plant growth and development. However, its role in amino acid biosynthesis and metabolism in seeds is not fully understood. In this study, we identified a mutant with small seeds through forward genetic screening in Medicago truncatula. The mutated gene encodes MtPIN4, an ortholog of PIN1. Using molecular approaches and integrative omics analyses, we discovered that auxin and amino acid content significantly decreased in mtpin4 seeds, highlighting the role of MtPIN4‐mediated auxin distribution in amino acid biosynthesis and metabolism. Furthermore, genetic analysis revealed that the three orthologs of PIN1 have specific and overlapping functions in various developmental processes in M. truncatula. Our findings emphasize the significance of MtPIN4 in seed development and offer insights into the molecular mechanisms governing the regulation of seed size in crops. This knowledge could be applied to enhance crop quality by targeted manipulation of seed protein regulatory pathways.
Multiple congenital ocular anomalies in three related litters of Jack Russell Terrier puppies
Authors: Barsotti G. , Abramo F. , Nuti M. , Novelli A. , Puccinelli C. , Cecchi F. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractObjectiveTo describe multiple congenital ocular anomalies in three litters of Jack Russell Terrier puppies.Animals studiedSeven purebred Jack Russell Terrier puppies from three related litters and their four parents.ProceduresMedical records of the puppies and their parents were evaluated. All dogs underwent a complete ophthalmic examination, followed by bilateral ocular ultrasonography in two of the puppies with complete corneal opacity. One eye from an affected puppy was subjected to histopathology. A complete database of pedigrees was built, and individual inbreeding was evaluated.ResultsThe most commonly diagnosed ocular anomalies in the puppies were: various anomalies of the fundus (12/14 eyes); microphthalmia (10/14 eyes); sclerocornea (8/14 eyes); and persistent pupillary membranes (7/14 eyes). Six out of seven puppies had at least two ocular abnormalities, and only one puppy was normal. Four out of seven puppies had sclerocornea, a particular corneal opacity to date described only in Spanish Podenco dogs. No ocular abnormalities were found in the parents examined (4/4). Analysis of the pedigrees showed that all the puppies and two parents were inbred, and the individual values of the inbreeding puppies were greater than 6.25% in two litters.ConclusionsInbreeding with closely related Jack Russell Terriers may result in severe congenital eye abnormalities in puppies.
West Nile and Usutu viruses are efficiently inactivated in platelet concentrates by UVC light using the THERAFLEX UV‐Platelets system
Authors: Gravemann Ute , Boelke Mathias , Könenkamp Laura , Söder Lars , Maurer Maurice , Ziegler Ute , Schulze Torsten J. , Seltsam Axel , Becker Stefanie C. , Steffen Imke 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackground and ObjectivesWest Nile virus (WNV) and Usutu virus (USUV) are mosquito‐borne flaviviruses (Flaviviridae) that originated in Africa, have expanded their geographical range during the last decades and caused documented infections in Europe in the last years. Acute WNV and USUV infections have been detected in asymptomatic blood donors by nucleic acid testing. Thus, inactivation of both viral pathogens before blood transfusion is necessary to ensure blood product safety. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of the THERAFLEX UV‐Platelets system to inactivate WNV and USUV in platelet concentrates (PCs).Materials and MethodsPlasma‐reduced PCs were spiked with the virus suspension. Spiked PC samples were taken after spiking (load and hold sample) and after UVC illumination on the Macotronic UV illumination machine with different light doses (0.05, 0.1, 0.15 and 0.2 (standard) J/cm2). Virus loads of WNV and USUV before and after illumination were measured by titration.ResultsInfectivity assays showed that UVC illumination inactivated WNV and USUV in a dose‐dependent manner. At a UVC dose of 0.2 J/cm2, the WNV titre was reduced by a log10 factor of 3.59 ± 0.43 for NY99 (lineage 1) and 4.40 ± 0.29 for strain ED‐I‐33/18 (lineage 2). USUV titres were reduced at the same UVC dose by a log10 factor of 5.20 ± 0.70.ConclusionsOur results demonstrate that the THERAFLEX UV‐Platelets procedure is an effective technology to inactivate WNV and USUV in contaminated PCs.
An Ergonomic Flexible Multi-Fire Clip Applier With Multiple Degrees-of-Freedom for Minimally Invasive Surgery to Improve Hemostatic Efficiency
Authors: Wu Yu , Liu Xingchi , Zhong Yuchuan , Zhao Jianchang , Li Jinhua 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Hemorrhage can lead to shock and even death of patients, making one of the main risks in surgical procedures. Most traditional clip appliers are rigid, have limited flexibility, and can only fire a single clip within each insertion, which cannot meet the needs of surgeons to efficiently and flexibly control bleeding vessels. In this study, a novel hand-held Hem-o-lok clip applier is proposed, which is designed to have a high flexibility and allow multiple fires of clips. The wrist at the end effector consists of discrete joints and a flexible shaft, allowing bending in two directions. The tong head at the end effector enables multiple fires of hemostats and can be delivered to different positions for clamping blood vessels and human tissues. It also can be driven to rotate by the flexible shaft. Additionally, an ergonomic handle is designed to control the multiple degrees-of-freedom (DOFs) movements of the instrument tip. Finally, the effectiveness of the entire system is evaluated through performance experiments. The bending angle of end effector was about ±70 deg in both directions (yaw and pitch), and the rotation angle was ±160 deg. The measured gripping forces of the applier ranged from 16.70 N to 24.93 N, and the average time to complete three consecutive clamping was 8.67 s. The proposed clip applier could improve the hemostatic efficiency and allow an intuitive and flexible operation in the meantime.
Topology Design of Compliant Mechanism Design With Multiple Component Modeling Connected by Various Joints
Authors: Kim Jun Hwan , Yoon Gil Ho 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
This study presents a novel framework for the optimal design of compliant mechanisms, specifically addressing the structural drawbacks of conventional single-point or de facto hinges. The hinges often lead to structural instability and stress concentration while deriving maximum motion. To overcome these issues, we introduce a new method that can design stable and elastic domains connected by either revolute or prismatic joints. The new method, called sequential analysis based on the reaction force, can successfully eliminate weak hinge points while optimizing joint locations. The efficiency of developed methodology is validated through several numerical examples, yielding compliant mechanisms with suppressed hinges.
A Synthesis Approach of XYZ Compliant Parallel Mechanisms Toward Motion Decoupling With Isotropic Property and Simplified Manufacturing
Authors: Leng Chuyang , Hao Guangbo , Ren Xiaoze , Wang Changsheng , Li Yanming , Zhang Yuanzhao , Li Haiyang 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Decoupled compliant parallel mechanisms with isotropic legs possess many excellent performances, including ease of actuation, control, manufacture and mathematical analysis, as well as effective error compensation. Despite the advent of numerous isotropic compliant parallel mechanisms, their synthesis process predominantly relies on the empirical knowledge of engineers, with an absence of dedicated synthesis methodologies. This paper proposes the constraint algebra method, a novel synthesis method capable of autonomously exploring feasible constraint space for the synthesis. This method involves algebraic formulation of the constraints for the compliant modules, followed by solving constraint equations to find the feasible constraints and orientations, thereby facilitating the synthesis with intended performance characteristics. The multiplicity of solutions to the constraint equations enables the generation of diverse designs, including innovative configurations that are challenging to obtain via other methods and experience. Furthermore, by the consideration of machinability in several steps of synthesis, the optimal configuration can be selected for simplified manufacture. A design case has been monolithically prototyped and experimentally tested. The proposed methodology holds promise for potential extension to the synthesis of other types of compliant mechanisms.
The Cognitive Function and Taekwondo-Specific Kick Performance of Taekwondo Athletes at Different Hydration Statuses
Authors: Zheng Ai-Chi , He Cheng-Shiun , Lu Chi-Cheng , Hung Bao-Lien , Chou Kuei-Ming , Fang Shih-Hua 
Published: May 2024

Purpose: Successful participation in taekwondo (TKD) requires athletes to possess quick decision-making abilities and demonstrate technical proficiency during competition. Dehydration, occurring during both training and competition, is widely recognized to have various negative effects. Methods: This study investigated the impact of different levels of dehydration on cognitive function, as measured by the Vienna Test System, and the specific performance of kicking techniques among TKD athletes. Using a randomized crossover design, 12 participants were involved in the study. Before and after 1 hour of training at 80% of maximal heart rate, participants were weighed and provided urine samples. All participants were randomly assigned to 3 different hydration conditions: the euhydrated (EUH) group had unrestricted access to fluid consumption, while the hypohydrated (HYP) and severely HYP (S-HYP) groups experienced reductions of 2.0% and 4.0% of their initial body weight, respectively. Results: The EUH group exhibited better reaction speed in reaction-time test-form S1 than the HYP and S-HYP groups. Notably, the EUH group demonstrated a significantly higher success rate in the front-side kick (EUH 98%, HYP 90%, S-HYP 88%; P < .05). However, the success rates of back roundhouse kick and free head kick were similar among the 3 statuses. Furthermore, postexercise heart rates were found to be significantly higher in the HYP and S-HYP groups compared with the EUH group. Conclusions: This study provides insight into the negative effects of dehydration on cognitive function and TKD-specific performance. It is recommended that TKD athletes maintain optimal hydration levels during training and competition to ensure optimal performance.
A comparison of students’ preferences for face-to-face and online laboratory sessions: insights from students’ perception of their learning experiences in an immunology course
Authors: Png Chin Wen , Goh Lih Ing , Chen Yuanxiang Kenneth , Yeo Huimin , Liu Haiyan 
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

The COVID-19 global pandemic has prompted educators in universities to reconsider their teaching methods, mainly due to the social distancing measures imposed within the classroom settings. On the other hand, the growing importance of continuing education opportunities for adult learners after graduation has seen the need to transform traditional teaching modes that primarily depend on face-to-face interaction into virtual modes, which are deemed more time- and cost-efficient. These major shifts in social and economic developments have a significant impact on the evolution of curriculum planning in higher education. Education that has scientific inquiry components inevitably comes into question, as conventional beliefs that experiments should be hands-on and will not be as effective if conducted virtually cast doubts on the move to the online space. This paper discusses the background of an impending shift in a university’s approach to more online-based laboratory classes in an immunology course, as well as the exploration of the potential of conducting online laboratory experiments based on student perceptions.