bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Association between outdoor light at night and hypertension and high‐normal blood pressure: A nationwide cross‐sectional study among Chinese adults
Authors: Wang Rui , Hu Xiangming , Ou Yanqiu , Chen Guoqiang , Wang Lebing , Qian Zhengmin , Vaughn Michael G. , Tabet Maya , Hu Liwen , Dong Guanghui , Dong Haojian 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe authors aimed to investigate the association between outdoor light at night (LAN) intensity and blood pressure. The study included 13 507 participants aged 45 and above from the 2011–2012 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study baseline survey. Blood pressure measurements were obtained by averaging the last two readings recorded (three measurements with an interval of 45–60 s between each measurement) during the survey. Outdoor LAN intensity was assessed using Defense Meteorological Satellite Program data. The study categorized participants based on quartiles of outdoor LAN intensity and employed statistical methods like linear regression, restricted cubic splines, and logistic models to analyze the connections. After adjusting for potential confounding factors, higher levels of outdoor LAN intensity were associated with increase in systolic blood pressure (0.592 mmHg/interquartile range [IQR], 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.027,1.157), diastolic blood pressure (0.853 mmHg/IQR, 95% CI: 0.525,1.180) and mean arterial pressure (0.766 mmHg/IQR, 95% CI: 0.385,1.147). Interestingly, the relationship between LAN intensity and odds of hypertension followed a non‐linear pattern, resembling a reverse “L” shape on cubic splines. Participants with the highest quartile of outdoor LAN intensity had 1.31‐fold increased odds of hypertension (95% CI: 1.08–1.58) compared to the lowest quartile. Additionally, there was an observable trend of rising odds for high‐normal blood pressure with higher levels of LAN intensity in the crude model, but no statistically significant differences were observed after adjusting for confounding factors. In conclusion, this study underscores a significant connection between outdoor LAN intensity and the prevalence of hypertension.
Overnutrition in the early postnatal period influences lifetime metabolic risk: Evidence for impact on pancreatic β‐cell mass and function
Authors: Burton Joshua JN , Alonso Laura C 
Published: January 2024

AbstractOverconsumption of energy‐rich foods that disrupt caloric balance is a fundamental cause of overweight, obesity and diabetes. Dysglycemia and the resulting cardiovascular disease cause substantial morbidity and mortality worldwide, as well as high societal cost. The prevalence of obesity in childhood and adolescence is increasing, leading to younger diabetes diagnosis, and higher severity of microvascular and macrovascular complications. An important goal is to identify early life conditions that increase future metabolic risk, toward the goal of preventing diabetes and cardiovascular disease. An ample body of evidence implicates prenatal and postnatal childhood growth trajectories in the programming of adult metabolic disease. Human epidemiological data show that accelerated childhood growth increases risk of type 2 diabetes in adulthood. Type 2 diabetes results from the combination of insulin resistance and pancreatic β‐cell failure, but specific mechanisms by which accelerated postnatal growth impact one or both of these processes remain uncertain. This review explores the metabolic impact of overnutrition during postnatal life in humans and in rodent models, with specific attention to the connection between accelerated childhood growth and future adiposity, insulin resistance, β‐cell mass and β‐cell dysfunction. With improved knowledge in this area, we might one day be able to modulate nutrition and growth in the critical postnatal window to maximize lifelong metabolic health.
How to conduct an annual literature update for top articles relevant to clinical practice in geriatrics: A scoping review
Authors: Lee Janice C. , Uleryk Elizabeth , Ratnapalan Savithiri 
Published: January 2024

AbstractBackgroundClinical educators in geriatrics are often tasked with presenting a literature update at annual conferences and scientific meetings, which is a highly regarded continuing medical education (CME) activity. Preparation of an annual literature update cannot rely on bibliometric analysis due to time lag and poor correlation between bibliometrics and expert opinion on clinical relevance. The methodology of how top research articles of the year are selected and presented is not often reported.MethodsWe conducted a scoping review for published reports of a curated selection of recent articles critically appraised for high impact to clinical practice in general geriatrics, published from 2010 to 2022.ResultsSix annual literature updates were included for study. Three updates detailed their article sources, ranging from a survey of clinicians, consulting seven individual journals, searching up to four bibliographic databases, scanning social media outlets, and reviewing previous literature updates. One update reported a detailed method of article selection and consensus development. Critical appraisal of articles followed a structured reporting of clinical context, methods, results, and a statement of clinical implication or bottom line. Three of the six updates' results were disseminated in an annual conference update and did not evaluate learning outcomes of the audience. We mapped the results on a four‐step framework of article search, selection, critical appraisal, and dissemination of knowledge.ConclusionsEducators in geriatrics consult numerous article sources spanning multiple journals, databases, social media, and peer suggestions to create an annual literature update. The methodology of article search and selection is inconsistently described. In this exciting area of CME, we encourage educators to develop a framework for conducting annual literature updates in geriatrics and expand its scholarship.
A 595 nm pulsed dye laser as an adjuvant intervention for post‐comedone extraction erythema and comedone reduction: A randomized, split‐face controlled trial
Authors: Bencharattanaphakhi Rungrot , Wananukul Siriwan , Tempark Therdpong , Chatproedprai Susheera 
Published: January 2024

AbstractBackgroundComedone extraction provides greater satisfaction for acne treatment than conventional treatment alone; however, post‐comedone extraction erythema (PCEE) remains a concern for patients.ObjectivesTo evaluate the efficacy of pulsed‐dye laser (PDL) in PCEE and comedone reduction.MethodsMild‐to‐moderate acne patients were randomly allocated in split‐face fashion. Three comedones were extracted on each facial side. On the PDL‐treated side, 595‐nm PDL was delivered to the entire side with an additional shot on three comedone‐extracted sites. Erythema index (EI) and total acne lesion counts (TALC) were evaluated at baseline, week 2 and 4. The comprehensive acne severity scale (CASS) was assessed by three blinded independent pediatric dermatologists. Participant satisfaction surveys were completed at the end of the study.ResultsThirty‐five participants (age 12.9–24.2 years) showed no differences in the EI and TALC at baseline on both sides. At weeks 2 and 4, the EI on the PDL‐treated side was significantly lower (p < 0.001) with a greater EI reduction (p < 0.001) when compared to the control side regardless of gender and menstruation. There was significantly lower TALC on the PDL‐treated side at week 2 (p < 0.001) and week 4 (p = 0.02). No complications were noted with high participant satisfaction reported (median 8; IQR 7–9). PDL remained significantly associated with EI improvements after controlling for gender, menstruation cycle, and examination stress.ConclusionPDL can be an adjunctive intervention for the treatment of PCEE and comedone reduction due to its effectiveness and high participant satisfaction.
Pleasantness and unpleasantness in somatosensory investigation
Authors: Taneja Pankaj , Svendsen Antilla Egeris , Kristensen Ellen , Jensen Frederik Teilmann , Vestergaard Mathias , Nørholt Sven Erik , Baad‐Hansen Lene 
Published: January 2024

AbstractBackgroundQualitative sensory testing (QualST) is a simple, standardised, chairside method for evaluating somatosensory function; however, testing focuses on detection of cold, touch and pain with no recognition of perceptions of pleasantness and unpleasantness.ObjectivesThe study aimed to utilise the stimuli in QualST, with the addition of a soft brush, to investigate stimulus‐evoked perceptions of pleasantness and unpleasantness on the facial skin and if any side‐to‐side differences. Additional aims were to determine the inter‐ and intra‐rater reliability using the modified QualST protocol and in the side‐to‐side differences.MethodsThirty healthy adult female participants underwent three sessions of sensitivity testing as per the modified QualST protocol. Stimuli were applied bilaterally to the facial skin, and participants provided separate yes/no responses for presence of stimulus‐evoked pleasantness, unpleasantness and/or differences between sides.ResultsThe stimuli were able to evoke sensations of pleasantness and unpleasantness with little differences in responses between the Q‐tip and goat hair brush for the perceptions. Side‐to‐side differences in evoked perceptions were observed and greatest, when evaluating for pinprick‐evoked unpleasantness (range between sessions = 18–19 participants). Acceptable percentage (≥90%) and excellent Cohen's Kappa (≥0.762) inter‐ and intra‐rater agreements were identified for one or more positive responses for each stimulus modality and the targeted perception.ConclusionThe modified QualST protocol provides a simple, reproducible method for the investigation of perceptions of pleasantness and unpleasantness, with readily accessible instrumentation to dental professionals and allowing for a more holistic approach in somatosensory testing.
Insights into the complexities of fungus‐insect‐plant interaction: The laurel wilt disease
Authors: Abdrabo Khaled Abdrabo El‐Sayid , Phang Guan Jie , Rahmadani Silmi Yusri , Huang Yin‐Tse 
Published: January 2024

AbstractLaurel wilt disease, caused by the fungus Harringtonia lauricola and transmitted by the ambrosia beetle Xyleborus glabratus, poses a significant ecological and economic threat to various species of the Lauraceae family, particularly avocado. The disease is characterized by the formation of tyloses blocking xylem vessels, hindering water conductance, and decreasing leaf gas exchange. The relationship between the fungus and the beetle is complex and not fully understood, which can be described, in general, as ambrosial symbiosis depending on the habitat. The secretome of the pathogen includes hydrolytic enzymes that aid in colonization and resistance of host defence. This paper reviews the current understanding of the causes, impacts, and management strategies for laurel wilt disease. Also, it provides an overview of the complex relationship between the fungal pathogen and its beetle vector and explores the various virulence factors and secretome of H. lauricola that contribute to the aggressive nature of the disease. Moreover, this review states the ecological and economic impacts of laurel wilt, particularly on ecologically and economically valuable plants such as avocado. Current management strategies for controlling the disease, including the use of insecticides, fungicides, and biological control methods, are reviewed. Finally, we highlight some critical key points in ambrosia symbiosis biology that are of importance for disease control.
Modulation of growth performance, feed utilization, and physiological traits in redbelly Tilapia (Tilapia zillii) through environmental and sex‐based interactions
Authors: Arafa Shireen S. I. , Omar Eglal Ali , Yousef Mokhtar I. , Srour Tarek Mohamed , Shehata Akram Ismael 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThis study explored the combined influence of tank color, stocking density, and gender on Tilapia zillii's performance and well‐being. In this 120‐day trial, 320 T. zillii, each initially weighing 10.0 ± 0.1 g/fish, were distributed among 24 tanks. The experiment included eight distinct treatment combinations, varying tank color (blue and green), stocking density (10 and 30 fish/m3) and sex (monosexual and mixed). The results showed that blue tanks improved specific growth rate and condition factor, while green tanks were better for feed utilization. Density at 30 fish/m3 showed the highest mean values of final body weight and total length, weight gain (WG), and gain length. Mono‐sex outperformed mixed‐sex ones in WG and daily growth. Interactions between color, density and sex were significant, affecting growth and feed utilization. Green tanks were best for protein profiles, while blue tanks excelled in glucose. A density of 10 fish/m3 yielded the highest protein profiles, and mono‐sex fish had higher protein profiles. For lipid profiles, green tanks were superior, and density affected lipid profiles. Mixed‐sex populations were best for certain lipid profile parameters. Interactions between these factors also played a significant role, making the biochemical profiles of T. zillii a complex interplay of various factors. The results explored that tank color, fish density and sex influence the activity of nonspecific immune enzymes in the liver of T. zillii. Blue tanks and lower fish density led to higher nonspecific immune enzymes, while mono‐sex fish exhibited more significant nonspecific immune enzymes. Complex interactions between these factors also influenced nonspecific immune enzyme activities. Blue tanks increased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, while green tanks raised glutathione S‐transferases (GST) and catalase (CAT) levels. Lower fish density led to higher MDA, while higher density increased GST and CAT. Mono‐sex fish had more MDA and GST, while mixed‐sex fish showed greater CAT levels. Complex interactions among these factors affected the antioxidant levels in T. zillii. In summary, our study suggests that rearing T. zillii in green tanks at higher densities (30 fish/m3) and in mono‐sex conditions yields the best results in terms of growth and overall performance.
‘It's like a compass which I use to find direction’: Findings and learning from an evaluation of an App designed to support the teaching of reading comprehension in rural and township schools in South Africa
Authors: Carter Jane , Pillay Pravina , Podpadec Tessa , Gina Jethro , Khumalo Nontobeko , Knight Ben , Matthews Paul , Mthethwa Lindiwe , Vickers‐Hulse Karan 
Published: January 2024

AbstractSouth Africa has low literacy levels and teachers face multiple challenges in their endeavours to elevate levels of literacy. This is especially prevalent in rural and township schools where teachers face the additional challenges of isolation, limited resources and access to professional development. This article reports on the findings and learning from a preliminary research study which piloted a handheld mobile phone App. This collaborative project, between a university in KwaZulu‐Natal and one in England, aimed to support in‐service and preservice teachers in rural and township settings to use the App to assess and match books to learners' (aged 9–12) stage of reading development in order to facilitate their independent reading and provide teachers with a range of strategies for teaching comprehension that could supplement other professional development available. In‐service teachers (n = 120) and preservice teachers (n = 93) took part in this mixed‐methods study. The main finding from the study was that whilst participants were positive about the App, many did not access the App independently. This article discusses the broader issues, including participants' foundational knowledge and literacy research participation considerations, that may have underpinned this finding in this collaborative Global North and South research.
Perspective: Connecting the dots between domestic livestock ownership and child linear growth in low‐ and middle‐income countries
Authors: Lowe Callum , Sarma Haribondhu , Gray Darren , Kelly Matthew 
Published: January 2024

AbstractChild stunting due to linear growth faltering remains a pervasive issue in low‐ and middle‐income countries. Two schools of thought have existed pertaining to the role of domestic livestock ownership (DLO) in child linear growth. On one hand, it is argued that DLO leads to greater income and financial security, resulting in better child‐raising conditions, including greater animal‐source food (ASF) consumption, having protective effects towards child stunting. On the other hand, researchers argue that DLO contributes to faecal contamination and transmission of zoonotic enteric infections from animals to children, thus having destructive effects on child growth. Reviews of this association have revealed ambiguous findings. In this perspective, we argue that measuring the association between exposures to domesticated animals and child stunting is difficult and the ambiguous associations revealed are a result of confounding and differences in the management of DLO. We also argue that the increasingly prominent area of research of environmental enteric dysfunction, a sub‐clinical condition of the small intestine thought to be due to frequent faecal pathogen exposure and associated with stunting, will be a useful tool to measure the potential destructive effects of DLO on child growth. We present our argument and identify challenges and considerations and directions for future research.
The type VI secretion system of Stenotrophomonas rhizophilaCFBP13503 limits the transmission of Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris 8004 from radish seeds to seedlings
Authors: Garin Tiffany , Brin Chrystelle , Préveaux Anne , Brault Agathe , Briand Martial , Simonin Marie , Barret Matthieu , Journet Laure , Sarniguet Alain 
Published: January 2024

AbstractStenotrophomonas rhizophila CFBP13503 is a seedborne commensal bacterial strain, which is efficiently transmitted to seedlings and can outcompete the phytopathogenic bacterium Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris (Xcc8004). The type VI secretion system (T6SS), an interference contact‐dependent mechanism, is a critical component of interbacterial competition. The involvement of the T6SS of S. rhizophila CFBP13503 in the inhibition of Xcc8004 growth and seed‐to‐seedling transmission was assessed. The T6SS cluster of S. rhizophila CFBP13503 and nine putative effectors were identified. Deletion of two T6SS structural genes, hcp and tssB, abolished the competitive advantage of S. rhizophila against Xcc8004 in vitro. The population sizes of these two bacterial species were monitored in seedlings after inoculation of radish seeds with mixtures of Xcc8004 and either S. rhizophila wild‐type (wt) strain or isogenic hcp mutant. A significant decrease in the population size of Xcc8004 was observed during confrontation with the S. rhizophila wt in comparison with T6SS‐deletion mutants in germinated seeds and seedlings. We found that the T6SS distribution among 835 genomes of the Stenotrophomonas genus is scarce. In contrast, in all available S. rhizophila genomes, T6SS clusters are widespread and mainly belong to the T6SS group i4. In conclusion, the T6SS of S. rhizophila CFBP13503 is involved in the antibiosis against Xcc8004 and reduces seedling transmission of Xcc8004 in radish. The distribution of this T6SS cluster in the S. rhizophila complex could make it possible to exploit these strains as biocontrol agents against X. campestris pv. campestris.
Cytochrome c levels affect the TOR pathway to regulate growth and metabolism under energy‐deficient conditions
Authors: Canal María Victoria , Mansilla Natanael , Gras Diana E. , Ibarra Agustín , Figueroa Carlos M. , Gonzalez Daniel H. , Welchen Elina 
Published: January 2024

Summary

Mitochondrial function is essential for plant growth, but the mechanisms involved in adjusting growth and metabolism to changes in mitochondrial energy production are not fully understood.

We studied plants with reduced expression of CYTC‐1, one of two genes encoding the respiratory chain component cytochrome c (CYTc) in Arabidopsis, to understand how mitochondria communicate their status to coordinate metabolism and growth.

Plants with CYTc deficiency show decreased mitochondrial membrane potential and lower ATP content, even when carbon sources are present. They also exhibit higher free amino acid content, induced autophagy, and increased resistance to nutritional stress caused by prolonged darkness, similar to plants with triggered starvation signals. CYTc deficiency affects target of rapamycin (TOR)‐pathway activation, reducing S6 kinase (S6K) and RPS6A phosphorylation, as well as total S6K protein levels due to increased protein degradation via proteasome and autophagy. TOR overexpression restores growth and other parameters affected in cytc‐1 mutants, even if mitochondrial membrane potential and ATP levels remain low.

We propose that CYTc‐deficient plants coordinate their metabolism and energy availability by reducing TOR‐pathway activation as a preventive signal to adjust growth in anticipation of energy exhaustion, thus providing a mechanism by which changes in mitochondrial activity are transduced to the rest of the cell.
Screening tools used in primary health care settings to identify health behaviours in children (birth–16 years); A systematic review of their effectiveness, feasibility and acceptability
Authors: Dutch Dimity , Bell Lucinda , Zarnowiecki Dorota , Johnson Brittany J. , Denney‐Wilson Elizabeth , Byrne Rebecca , Cheng Heilok , Rossiter Chris , Manson Alexandra , House Eve , Davidson Kamila , Golley Rebecca K. 
Published: January 2024

SummaryBackgroundChild health behaviour screening tools have potential to enhance the effectiveness of health promotion and early intervention. This systematic review aimed to examine the effectiveness, acceptability and feasibility of child health behaviour screening tools used in primary health care settings.MethodsA systematic review of studies published in English in five databases (CINAHL, Medline, Scopus, PsycINFO and Web of Science) prior to July 2022 was undertaken. Eligible studies described: 1) screening tools for health behaviours (dietary, physical activity, sedentary or sleep‐related behaviours) used in primary health care settings in children birth to 16 years; 2) tool effectiveness for identifying child health behaviours and changing practitioner behaviour; 3) tool acceptability or feasibility from child, caregiver or practitioner perspective and/or 4) implementation of the screening tool.ResultsOf the 7145 papers identified, 22 studies describing 14 screening tools were included. Only four screening tools measured all four behaviour domains. Fourteen studies reported changes in practitioner self‐reported behaviour, knowledge and practice. Practitioners and caregivers identified numerous benefits and challenges to screening.ConclusionsHealth behaviour screening can be an acceptable and feasible strategy to assess children's health behaviours in primary health care. Further evaluation is needed to determine effectiveness on child health outcomes.