bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Post‐activation potentiation after isometric contractions is strongly related to contraction intensity despite the similar torque–time integral
Authors: Eon Pauline , Jubeau Marc , Cattagni Thomas 
Published: April 2024

AbstractPost‐activation potentiation (PAP) is defined as an enhanced contractile response of a muscle following its own contractile activity and is influenced by the intensity and duration of the conditioning contraction. The aim of this study was to determine if the combination of intensity and duration, that is, torque–time integral (TTI) is a determinant of PAP amplitude. We compared PAP amplitude following low‐to‐maximal voluntary conditioning contraction intensities with and without similar TTI in the knee extensors. Twelve healthy males completed two experimental sessions. Femoral nerve stimulation was applied to evoke single twitches on the relaxed quadriceps before and after isometric conditioning contractions of knee extensors. In one session, participants performed conditioning contractions without similar TTI (6 s at 100, 80, 60, 40 and 20% maximal voluntary contraction (MVC)), while they performed conditioning contractions with similar TTI in the other session (6 s at 100%, 7.5 s at 80%, 10 s at 60%, 15 s at 40%, and 30 s at 20% MVC). In both sessions, PAP amplitude was related to conditioning contraction intensity. The higher the conditioning contraction intensity with or without similar TTI, the higher PAP. Significant correlations were found (i) between PAP and conditioning contraction intensity with (r2 = 0.70; P < 0.001) or without similar TTI (r2 = 0.64; P < 0.001), and (ii) between PAP with and without similar TTI (r2 = 0.82; P < 0.001). The results provide evidence that TTI has a minor influence on PAP in the knee extensors. This suggests that to optimize the effect of PAP, it is more relevant to control the intensity of the contraction rather than the TTI.
Opportunities for Dunedin’s Mobile Library Service
Authors: Worthington Tessa 
Published: April 2024

This project delves into the potential opportunities for Dunedin’s mobile library service, with a focus on emissions and social sustainability. The research is particularly significant for this community, as a comprehensive review of Dunedin's mobile library services and user transport behaviours has not been conducted previously. Employing a mixed-methods and community-based approach, this project involves surveys of current mobile library and city library users to understand their travel behaviours and assess interest in additional mobile library services. Interviews with mobile library managers around Aotearoa also provide insights into the diverse scope of mobile library and outreach services. Subsequent data analysis offers a range of recommendations tailored for the Dunedin City Council and Dunedin Public Libraries, serving as a valuable guide for their future decision-making processes, in line with the Zero Carbon Plan 2030. Beyond the local context, this project includes insights applicable to a broader spectrum of organizations, councils, and communities, contributing to the larger discourse on emissions reduction and sustainable practices.
Supervised by: Craig Cliff, Ray O’Brien
Scholarship Project Funded by: Dunedin City Council
Assessing potential drug-drug interactions between clofazimine and other frequently used agents to treat drug-resistant tuberculosis
Authors: Kengo Allan , Nabeemeeah Firdaus , Denti Paolo , Sabet Ryan , Okyere-Manu Gifty , Abraham Pattamukkil , Weisner Lubbe , Mosala Modiehi Helen , Tshabalala Sibongile , Scholefield Janine , Resendiz-Galvan Juan Eduardo , Martinson Neil A. , Variava Ebrahim 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Clofazimine is included in drug regimens to treat rifampicin/drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB), but there is little information about its interaction with other drugs in DR-TB regimens. We evaluated the pharmacokinetic interaction between clofazimine and isoniazid, linezolid, levofloxacin, and cycloserine, dosed as terizidone. Newly diagnosed adults with DR-TB at Klerksdorp/Tshepong Hospital, South Africa, were started on the then-standard treatment with clofazimine temporarily excluded for the initial 2 weeks. Pharmacokinetic sampling was done immediately before and 3 weeks after starting clofazimine, and drug concentrations were determined using validated liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry assays. The data were interpreted with population pharmacokinetics in NONMEM v7.5.1 to explore the impact of clofazimine co-administration and other relevant covariates on the pharmacokinetics of isoniazid, linezolid, levofloxacin, and cycloserine. Clofazimine, isoniazid, linezolid, levofloxacin, and cycloserine data were available for 16, 27, 21, 21, and 6 participants, respectively. The median age and weight for the full cohort were 39 years and 52 kg, respectively. Clofazimine exposures were in the expected range, and its addition to the regimen did not significantly affect the pharmacokinetics of the other drugs except levofloxacin, for which it caused a 15% reduction in clearance.
A posteriori
power size calculations predicted that our sample sizes had 97%, 90%, and 87% power at
P
< 0.05 to detect a 30% change in clearance of isoniazid, linezolid, and cycloserine, respectively. Although clofazimine increased the area under the curve of levofloxacin by 19%, this is unlikely to be of great clinical significance, and the lack of interaction with other drugs tested is reassuring.
The genomic characterization of three
Microbacterium foliorum
-specific bacteriophages, “Nucci,” “MCubed,” and “QMacho”
Authors: Easterwood Jennifer Cook , Katsanos Joanna Mantis , Lloyd Jenna 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Nucci, MCubed, and QMacho are microbacteriophages that were isolated from soil samples in Charlotte, NC. They were classified into EA10, EA2, and EB clusters, respectively. Nucci and MCubed each had 63 predicted genes, while QMacho had 73 predicted genes.
Spatiotemporal dynamics of dissolved organic matter in subtropical karst cave waters identified by optical properties
Authors: Dong Hui , Zhou Zhongfa , Zhang Heng , Gong Xiaohuan , Ding Shengjun , Su Dan , Yan Lihui , Xiong Yong 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Natural dissolved organic matter (DOM) is ubiquitous in aquatic environments and is an essential component in the carbon cycle in karst areas. To improve understanding of the carbon cycle in karst caves with heterogeneous hydrological processes, we examined the spatiotemporal variability of DOM composition and further uncovered its source and fate. Results may also provide insights into the feedbacks of organic carbon to carbon sinks in karst regions. In this study, concentrations and compositions of DOM, partial pressure of aqueous carbon dioxide (pCO2), dissolved inorganic carbon, and other physicochemical parameters were investigated in a karst cave at Mahuang, Southwest China. Ultraviolet-visible absorption spectroscopy was coupled with multiple statistical analyses to identify the compositional variations and potential fates of DOM in cave waters. The results showed that DOM dynamics were regulated by both terrigenous and biogenic drivers under the control of meteorological conditions. With higher air temperature, precipitation, and microbial activity, fulvic fractions were consumed to generate CO2, leading to the accumulation of refractory DOM in cave waters and changing the hydrochemical features. When temperature and precipitation decreased, DOM was dominated by lignin fractions, which served as an indicator of terrestrial inputs and vascular plants, suggesting variation in the preferential fraction of biological consumption. In addition, different hydrological path patterns influenced DOM properties in cave waters due to differences in recharging, the leaching process, and subsurface reworking. Thus, hydrology could serve as an important constraint on the coupling between dissolved organic and inorganic carbon.
Psychosocial support interventions for children and adolescents experiencing gender dysphoria or incongruence: a systematic review
Authors: Heathcote Claire , Taylor Jo , Hall Ruth , Jarvis Stuart William , Langton Trilby , Hewitt Catherine Elizabeth , Fraser Lorna 
Published: April 2024

BackgroundNational and international guidelines recommend that psychosocial support should be a key component of the care offered to children and adolescents experiencing gender dysphoria/incongruence. However, specific approaches or interventions are not recommended.AimTo identify and summarise evidence on the outcomes of psychosocial support interventions for children and adolescents (age 0-18) experiencing gender dysphoria/incongruence.MethodsSystematic review and narrative synthesis. Database searches (MEDLINE; EMBASE; CINAHL; PsycINFO; Web of Science) were performed in April 2022, with results assessed independently by two reviewers. Peer-reviewed articles reporting the results of studies measuring outcomes of psychosocial support interventions were included. Quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool.ResultsTen studies were included. Half were conducted in the US, with others from Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the UK. Six were pre–post analyses or cohort studies, three were mixed methods, and one was a secondary analysis of intervention data from four trials. Most studies were of low quality. Most analyses of mental health and psychosocial outcomes showed either benefit or no change, with none indicating negative or adverse effects.ConclusionsThe small number of low-quality studies limits conclusions about the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions for children/adolescents experiencing gender dysphoria/incongruence. Clarity on the intervention approach as well as the core outcomes would support the future aggregation of evidence. More robust methodology and reporting is required.PROSPERO registration numberCRD42021289659.
Gender services for children and adolescents across the EU-15+ countries: an online survey
Authors: Hall Ruth , Taylor Jo , Heathcote Claire , Langton Trilby , Hewitt Catherine Elizabeth , Fraser Lorna 
Published: April 2024

BackgroundOver the last 10-15 years, there has been an increase in the number of children and adolescents referred to gender services, particularly among adolescent birth-registered females. This population shows a higher prevalence of co-occurring mental health difficulties and neurodevelopmental conditions. Some countries have recently restricted access to medical treatments in recognition of the uncertain evidence base.AimTo understand the current provision of gender services for children and adolescents across the EU-15+ countries that have comparable high-income healthcare systems, to inform service development in the UK.MethodsAn e-survey of paediatric gender services was conducted between September 2022 and April 2023. It covered service structure, care pathways, interventions and data collection. Data were described and compared to identify similarities and differences among participating services.Results15 services in eight countries (Australia, Belgium, Denmark, Norway, Northern Ireland, The Netherlands, Spain and Finland) responded. While a multidisciplinary team was present in all services, its composition and organisation varied. Clinical practice was informed by international guidelines, with four countries following their own national guidelines. Differences were observed in referral criteria, care pathways for prepubertal children and those with co-occurring conditions. Eligibility criteria for medical interventions also varied. Psychosocial support and interventions were limited, and outcome data collection was scarce.ConclusionsThis survey revealed both similarities and key variations in the clinical practice of paediatric gender services across eight different countries. The study emphasises the need for service development that both considers the management of co-occurring conditions and embeds routine data collection in practice.
Interventions to suppress puberty in adolescents experiencing gender dysphoria or incongruence: a systematic review
Authors: Taylor Jo , Mitchell Alex , Hall Ruth , Heathcote Claire , Langton Trilby , Fraser Lorna , Hewitt Catherine Elizabeth 
Published: April 2024

BackgroundTreatment to suppress or lessen effects of puberty are outlined in clinical guidelines for adolescents experiencing gender dysphoria/incongruence. Robust evidence concerning risks and benefits is lacking and there is a need to aggregate evidence as new studies are published.AimTo identify and synthesise studies assessing the outcomes of puberty suppression in adolescents experiencing gender dysphoria/incongruence.MethodsA systematic review and narrative synthesis. Database searches (Medline, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Web of Science) were performed in April 2022, with results assessed independently by two reviewers. An adapted version of the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for cohort studies was used to appraise study quality. Only moderate-quality and high-quality studies were synthesised. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses reporting guidelines were used.Results11 cohort, 8 cross-sectional and 31 pre-post studies were included (n=50). One cross-sectional study was high quality, 25 studies were moderate quality (including 5 cohort studies) and 24 were low quality. Synthesis of moderate-quality and high-quality studies showed consistent evidence demonstrating efficacy for suppressing puberty. Height increased in multiple studies, although not in line with expected growth. Multiple studies reported reductions in bone density during treatment. Limited and/or inconsistent evidence was found in relation to gender dysphoria, psychological and psychosocial health, body satisfaction, cardiometabolic risk, cognitive development and fertility.ConclusionsThere is a lack of high-quality research assessing puberty suppression in adolescents experiencing gender dysphoria/incongruence. No conclusions can be drawn about the impact on gender dysphoria, mental and psychosocial health or cognitive development. Bone health and height may be compromised during treatment. More recent studies published since April 2022 until January 2024 also support the conclusions of this review.PROSPERO registration numberCRD42021289659.
Masculinising and feminising hormone interventions for adolescents experiencing gender dysphoria or incongruence: a systematic review
Authors: Taylor Jo , Mitchell Alex , Hall Ruth , Langton Trilby , Fraser Lorna , Hewitt Catherine Elizabeth 
Published: April 2024

BackgroundClinical guidelines outline the use of hormones for masculinisation/feminisation in adolescents experiencing gender dysphoria or incongruence. Robust evidence concerning risks and benefits is lacking. There is a need to aggregate evidence as research becomes available.AimIdentify and synthesise studies assessing the outcomes of hormones for masculinisation/feminisation in adolescents experiencing gender dysphoria/incongruence.MethodsSystematic review and narrative synthesis. Database searches (MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Web of Science) were performed in April 2022, with results assessed independently by two reviewers. An adapted version of the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for Cohort Studies was used to assess study quality. Moderate- and high-quality studies were synthesised.Results12 cohort, 9 cross-sectional and 32 pre–post studies were included (n=53). One cohort study was high-quality. Other studies were moderate (n=33) and low-quality (n=19). Synthesis of high and moderate-quality studies showed consistent evidence demonstrating induction of puberty, although with varying feminising/masculinising effects. There was limited evidence regarding gender dysphoria, body satisfaction, psychosocial and cognitive outcomes, and fertility. Evidence from mainly pre–post studies with 12-month follow-up showed improvements in psychological outcomes. Inconsistent results were observed for height/growth, bone health and cardiometabolic effects. Most studies included adolescents who received puberty suppression, making it difficult to determine the effects of hormones alone.ConclusionsThere is a lack of high-quality research assessing the use of hormones in adolescents experiencing gender dysphoria/incongruence. Moderate-quality evidence suggests mental health may be improved during treatment, but robust study is still required. For other outcomes, no conclusions can be drawn. More recent studies published since April 2022 until January 2024 also support the conclusions of this review.PROSPERO registration number:CRD42021289659.
Characteristics of children and adolescents referred to specialist gender services: a systematic review
Authors: Taylor Jo , Hall Ruth , Langton Trilby , Fraser Lorna , Hewitt Catherine Elizabeth 
Published: April 2024

BackgroundIncreasing numbers of children/adolescents experiencing gender dysphoria/incongruence are being referred to specialist gender services. Services and practice guidelines are responding to these changes.AimThis systematic review examines the numbers and characteristics of children/adolescents (under 18) referred to specialist gender or endocrinology services.MethodsDatabase searches were performed (April 2022), with results assessed independently by two reviewers. Peer-reviewed articles providing at least birth-registered sex or age at referral were included. Demographic, gender-related, mental health, neurodevelopmental conditions and adverse childhood experience data were extracted. A narrative approach to synthesis was used and where appropriate proportions were combined in a meta-analysis.Results143 studies from 131 articles across 17 countries were included. There was a twofold to threefold increase in the number of referrals and a steady increase in birth-registered females being referred. There is inconsistent collection and reporting of key data across many of the studies. Approximately 60% of children/adolescents referred to services had made steps to present themselves in their preferred gender. Just under 50% of studies reported data on depression and/or anxiety and under 20% reported data on other mental health issues and neurodevelopmental conditions. Changes in the characteristics of referrals over time were generally not reported.ConclusionsServices need to capture, assess and respond to the potentially co-occurring complexities of children/adolescents being referred to specialist gender and endocrine services. Agreement on the core characteristics for collection at referral/assessment would help to ensure services are capturing data as well as developing pathways to meet the needs of these children.PROSPERO registration numberCRD42021289659.
Care pathways of children and adolescents referred to specialist gender services: a systematic review
Authors: Taylor Jo , Hall Ruth , Langton Trilby , Fraser Lorna , Hewitt Catherine Elizabeth 
Published: April 2024

BackgroundIncreasing numbers of children and adolescents experiencing gender dysphoria/incongruence are being referred to specialist gender services. However, little is currently known about the proportions accessing different types of care and treatment following referral.AimThis systematic review examines the range of care pathways of children/adolescents (under 18) referred to specialist gender or endocrinology services.MethodsDatabase searches were performed (April 2022), with results assessed independently by two reviewers. Peer-reviewed articles providing data for numbers of children and/or adolescents at referral/assessment and their treatment pathways were included. A narrative approach to synthesis was used and where appropriate proportions were combined in a random-effects meta-analysis.Results23 studies across nine countries were included, representing 6133 children and/or adolescents with a median age at assessment of 14–16 and overall a higher percentage of birth-registered females. Of those assessed, 36% (95% CI 27% to 45%) received puberty suppression, 51% (95% CI 40% to 62%) received masculinising or feminising hormones, 68% (95% CI 57% to 77%) received puberty suppression and/or hormones and 16% (95% CI 10% to 24%) received surgery. No study systematically reported information about the full pathway or psychological care received by children/adolescents. Follow-up in many studies was insufficient or unclear. Reasons for discontinuation were rarely provided.ConclusionsProspective studies with long-term follow-up reporting information about the full range of pathways are needed to understand what happens to children and adolescents referred to specialist gender services. Information about provision of psychological care is needed considering high rates of psychosocial difficulties in this population.PROSPERO registration numberCRD42021289659.
Cardiorespiratory fitness is a strong and consistent predictor of morbidity and mortality among adults: an overview of meta-analyses representing over 20.9 million observations from 199 unique cohort studies
Authors: Lang Justin J , Prince Stephanie A , Merucci Katherine , Cadenas-Sanchez Cristina , Chaput Jean-Philippe , Fraser Brooklyn J , Manyanga Taru , McGrath Ryan , Ortega Francisco B , Singh Ben , Tomkinson Grant R 
Published: April 2024

ObjectiveTo examine and summarise evidence from meta-analyses of cohort studies that evaluated the predictive associations between baseline cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and health outcomes among adults.DesignOverview of systematic reviews.Data sourceFive bibliographic databases were searched from January 2002 to March 2024.ResultsFrom the 9062 papers identified, we included 26 systematic reviews. We found eight meta-analyses that described five unique mortality outcomes among general populations. CRF had the largest risk reduction for all-cause mortality when comparing high versus low CRF (HR=0.47; 95% CI 0.39 to 0.56). A dose–response relationship for every 1-metabolic equivalent of task (MET) higher level of CRF was associated with a 11%–17% reduction in all-cause mortality (HR=0.89; 95% CI 0.86 to 0.92, and HR=0.83; 95% CI 0.78 to 0.88). For incident outcomes, nine meta-analyses described 12 unique outcomes. CRF was associated with the largest risk reduction in incident heart failure when comparing high versus low CRF (HR=0.31; 95% CI 0.19 to 0.49). A dose–response relationship for every 1-MET higher level of CRF was associated with a 18% reduction in heart failure (HR=0.82; 95% CI 0.79 to 0.84). Among those living with chronic conditions, nine meta-analyses described four unique outcomes in nine patient groups. CRF was associated with the largest risk reduction for cardiovascular mortality among those living with cardiovascular disease when comparing high versus low CRF (HR=0.27; 95% CI 0.16 to 0.48). The certainty of the evidence across all studies ranged from very low-to-moderate according to Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations.ConclusionWe found consistent evidence that high CRF is strongly associated with lower risk for a variety of mortality and incident chronic conditions in general and clinical populations.