bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mapping internal brainstem structures using T1 and T2 weighted 3T images
Authors: Mueller Susanne G. 
Published: December 2023

BackgroundMany neurodegenerative diseases affect the brainstem and often do so in an early stage. The overall goal of this project was (a) to develop a method to segment internal brainstem structures from T1 and T2 weighted sequences by taking advantage of the superior myelin contrast of the T1/T2 ratio image (RATIO) and (b) to test if this approach provides biological meaningful information by investigating the effects of aging on different brainstem gray matter structures.Methods675 T1 and T2 weighted images were obtained from the Human Connectome Project Aging. The intensities of the T1 and T2 images were re-scaled and RATIO images calculated. The brainstem was isolated and k-means clustering used to identify five intensity clusters. Non-linear diffeomorphic mapping was used to warp the five intensity clusters in subject space into a common space to generate probabilistic group averages/priors that were used to inform the final probabilistic segmentations at the single subject level. The five clusters corresponded to five brainstem tissue types (two gray matters, two mixed gray/white, and 1 csf/tissue partial volume).ResultsThese cluster maps were used to calculate Jacobian determinant maps and the mean Jacobians of 48 brainstem gray matter structures extracted. Significant linear or quadratic age effects were found for all but five structures.ConclusionsThese findings suggest that it is possible to obtain a biologically meaningful segmentation of internal brainstem structures from T1 and T2 weighted sequences using a fully automated segmentation procedure.
Sleep, activity, and diet in harmony: unveiling the relationships of chronotype, sleep quality, physical activity, and dietary intake
Authors: Günal Ahmet Murat 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionThis cross-sectional study aims to explore the intricate relationships among chronotype, sleep quality, physical activity, and dietary intake in a diverse cohort of 3,072 (50.2% female) participants residing in İstanbul, Türkiye.MethodsThis study utilized established measurement tools, including the Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ) to assess chronotype, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) to evaluate sleep quality, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form (IPAQ-SF) to measure physical activity, and a 24-h dietary recall method to assess dietary intake.ResultsThe findings of this study revealed compelling associations. Firstly, a robust association was observed between sleep quality and chronotype (OR: 2.265; 95% CI: 1.954–2.626; p &lt; 0.001) as well as physical activity (OR: 0.836; 95% CI: 0.750–0.932; p = 0.002). Specifically, evening chronotypes are more likely to have poor sleep quality, while highly active individuals tend to report lower sleep quality. Transitioning from inactivity to high activity was associated with a 16.4% increase in the odds of transitioning from normal to poor sleep, while a shift from an evening to a morning chronotype was linked to a substantial 126.5-fold increase in the odds of moving from poor to normal sleep. Additionally, morning chronotypes also display distinctive dietary patterns, characterized by higher energy, protein, and fat intake, and reduced carbohydrate intake. Poor sleep quality is associated with increased energy and macronutrient consumption.DiscussionThese findings underscore the intricate relationships of chrononutrition within the context of sleep quality, physical activity, and dietary choices. The study underscores the significance of personalized interventions to effectively address specific health behaviors, highlighting the complexity of chrononutrition’s role in promoting overall health and wellbeing.
Significant loss of retinal nerve fibre layer and contrast sensitivity in people with well controlled HIV disease: implications for aging with HIV
Authors: Neelamegam Malinee , Nawi Nilani , Bashah Nor Syuhada Ahmad , Hwei Yap Siew , Zulhaimi Nurul Syuhada , Kamarulzaman Adeeba , Kamaruzzaman Shahrul Bahyah , Ramli Norlina , Rajasuriar Reena 
Published: December 2023

ObjectiveAntiretroviral therapy has decreased the prevalence of retinal opportunistic infections in people living with HIV (PLWH). However, abnormalities in visual function are evident and may be associated with an early onset of aging in PLWH. In this study, we examined the Retinal Nerve Fibre Layer (RNFL) thickness and visual function in PLWH and HIV non-infected controls in Malaysia.DesignCross-sectional studyMethodsTwo hundred and two (202) PLWH without retinal opportunistic infection and 182 age-matched, HIV seronegative individuals were enrolled. PLWH were recruited from the Infectious Disease clinic at the University Malaya Medical Centre. Controls were recruited among the hospital staff and community volunteers. RNFL thickness was measured with spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SDOCT). Visual functions include visual acuity using LogMAR chart and contrast sensitivity using Pelli- Robson Chart.ResultsAll PLWH (mean age 46.1 years ± 9.9 years) in the study were on ART and 61.2% had a CD4+ T-cell count more than 500 cell/μl. The mean visual acuity was similar between the two groups (LogMAR 0.05 vs. 0.07, p = 0.115). Contrast sensitivity was lower in PLWH compared to HIV seronegative individuals (1.90 vs 1.93, p = 0.032). RNFL thickness was significantly thinner in the temporal quadrant for PLWH compared to controls (68.89 μm vs 74.08 μm, p = 0.001).ConclusionChanges in RNFL thickness and contrast sensitivity were seen in PLWH despite their relatively young age and well controlled HIV disease. The changes reflect structural and functional deficits, and could have long-term implications on their health trajectory.
Novel micellar CB2 receptor agonist with anti-inflammatory action for treating corneal alkali burns in a mouse model
Authors: Thathapudi Neethi C. , Groleau Marc , Degué Delali S. , Aghajanzadeh Kiyaseh Mozhgan , Kujawa Piotr , Soulhi Fouzia , Akla Naoufal , Griffith May , Robert Marie-Claude 
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Moderate corneal alkali burns such as those sustained from accidental exposure to household chemicals are treated with topical corticosteroids. Side effects include increased intraocular pressure and slowing of wound healing. Here, we compare the effects of a cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2r) agonist, TA-A001, that is involved in wound healing with that of the corticosteroid, prednisolone.Methods: TA-A001 was encapsulated with a polymeric micelle comprising polyvinylpyrrolidone: polylactide block copolymers referred to as SmartCelle™ to allow delivery of the very hydrophobic drug. Mouse corneas were given moderate alkali burns. Different doses of TA-A001 of 0.125%, 0.25% and 0.5% were used to treat the burns in comparison to the corticosteroid, prednisolone.Results: TA-A001 at 0.25% and 0.5% allowed for faster wound closure. However, the higher 0.5% dose also induced unwanted neovascularization. By comparison, burned corneas treated with prednisolone showed slower healing as well as disorganization of the cornea. Although 0.25% TA-A001 appeared to produce the most-optimal responses, this dose resulted in marked expression of the macrophage chemoattractant protein, MCP-1. However, there was also an increase in CD163 positive stained M2 anti-inflammatory macrophages in the TA-A001 corneas. TA-A001 treated corneas showed the presence of sensory nerve fibers throughout the corneal epithelium including the superficial cell layers as did Substance P staining.Discussion: We found that TA-A001 at the 0.25% doses was able to modulate inflammation resulting from a moderate alkali burn to the cornea. With more extensive testing, TA-A001 might prove to be a potential alternative to corticosteroids for treating alkali burns or other causes of corneal inflammation.
Distance from a cultural model of substance use risk, internalization, and self-stigma in urban Brazil
Authors: Henderson Nicole L. , Dressler William W. , Pegoraro Natália Priolli Jora , Falcão Ana , Pillon Sandra Cristin 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionA cognitive theory of culture as socially distributed cultural models has proven useful in research. Cultural models exist in two forms: the model shared by individuals in a social group, and individual versions of that model modified by personal experience. In previous research we documented a shared cultural model of substance use risk among a general population sample in urban Brazil. Here we examine how this model is distributed among persons under treatment for substance use/misuse and the implications for perceived and self-stigma.MethodsA convenience sample of 133 persons under treatment rated the influence of risk factors for substance use/misuse. The configuration of those ratings and the cultural distance of persons under treatment from the general population model were calculated. Degree of stigma perceived in the wider society and degree of self-stigma were also assessed.ResultsPersons under treatment aggregate risk factors to a greater extent than the general population. Using a cultural distance metric, the more distant persons under treatment are from the general population model, the lower their self-stigma regarding substance use.DiscussionSome individuals under treatment separate their understanding of substance use/misuse from shared perspectives in the wider society, which in turn reduces self-stigma. These findings add an additional perspective on the relationship of culture and the individual.
Predicting COVID-19 pandemic waves including vaccination data with deep learning
Authors: Begga Ahmed , Garibo-i-Orts Òscar , de María-García Sergi , Escolano Francisco , Lozano Miguel A. , Oliver Nuria , Conejero J. Alberto 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionDuring the recent COVID-19 pandemics, many models were developed to predict the number of new infections. After almost a year, models had also the challenge to include information about the waning effect of vaccines and by infection, and also how this effect start to disappear.MethodsWe present a deep learning-based approach to predict the number of daily COVID-19 cases in 30 countries, considering the non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) applied in those countries and including vaccination data of the most used vaccines.ResultsWe empirically validate the proposed approach for 4 months between January and April 2021, once vaccination was available and applied to the population and the COVID-19 variants were closer to the one considered for developing the vaccines. With the predictions of new cases, we can prescribe NPIs plans that present the best trade-off between the expected number of COVID-19 cases and the social and economic cost of applying such interventions.DiscussionWhereas, mathematical models which include the effect of vaccines in the spread of the SARS-COV-2 pandemic are available, to the best of our knowledge we are the first to propose a data driven method based on recurrent neural networks that considers the waning effect of the immunization acquired either by vaccine administration or by recovering from the illness. This work contributes with an accurate, scalable, data-driven approach to modeling the pandemic curves of cases when vaccination data is available.
Instruments for measuring self-management and self-care in geriatric patients – a scoping review
Authors: Wientzek Rebecca , Brückner Rosa Marie , Schönenberg Aline , Prell Tino 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionWith demographic changes, prioritizing effective care for geriatric patients to maintain functionality, independence, and quality of life is crucial. Well-developed self-management or self-care abilities, which can be maintained and improved through interventions, are of the utmost importance. To implement these interventions tailored and effectively, a thorough assessment of the individual’s self-management and self-care abilities is required.ObjectiveThis scoping review aimed to identify self-management and self-care instruments suitable for geriatric patients, their underlying theories and definitions of self-management and self-care, and their similarities and differences in item content.MethodsA systematic search of the PubMed and CINAHL databases was conducted to identify retrievable full-text articles published in English in the medical and nursing fields since the 1970s, which were validated on a sample with an average age of at least 70 years, used generic rather than disease-specific items, and addressed the broad range of self-management and self-care abilities.ResultsOf the 20 included articles, six instruments were identified that were based on different theories and offered varying definitions of self-management or self-care. Despite these differences, all emphasize empowered individuals taking an active role in their care. Most address actual behavior and abilities referring to lifestyle factors and (anticipated) adjustment behavior. However, crucial aspects, such as psychological factors, (instrumental) activities of daily living, and social environment are not fully addressed in these instruments, nor are the types of execution to which the items refer, such as wants, feelings, confidence, or attitudes.ConclusionTo fully understand how geriatric patients implement daily self-management or self-care, a combination of instruments covering the important factors of self-management and self-care and addressing multiple types of item execution, such as behaviors, abilities, wants, or attitudes, is recommended. This review provides the first comprehensive overview of self-management and self-care instruments suitable for geriatric patients.
Prevalence of dysmenorrhea and associated factors and its effect on daily academic activities among female undergraduate students of Hawassa University College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Hawassa, Ethiopia
Authors: Belayneh Wondu , Kassaye Zerai , Arusi Temesgen , Abera Netsanet , Hantalo Admassu , Melkamu Biruk , Gutulo Muluken 
Published: December 2023

BackgroundDysmenorrhea is pain during menstrual flow and is the most common gynecologic complaint in reproductive-age girls. The severity of dysmenorrhea ranges from mild to severe pain during menstruation, which affects their academic activities.ObjectiveTo assess the prevalence and associated risk factors of dysmenorrhea and its effects on academic activities among Hawassa University students from April 1–30/2021.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted and a systematic random sampling technique was used to select 348 study participants. Standardized self-administered questionnaires were used to obtain relevant data. The severity of pain was assessed using a verbal multidimensional scoring system and Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) methods. The collected data was entered into Epi info version 7 and exported to SPSS version 21 for analysis and then descriptive statistics and logistic regression analysis were performed.ResultsThe prevalence of dysmenorrhea was 80% (277). Of those affected by dysmenorrhea, using the verbal multidimensional scoring system, 47.6% (132) were found to have mild pain, 39.7% (110) had moderate pain, and 12.6% (35) had severe pain. However, using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), 21.7% (60) were found to have mild pain, 33.2% (92) had moderate pain, 37.5% (104) had severe pain, and 7.6% (21) had very severe pain. It was found to have a negative effect on academic activity, such as loss of concentration in class (p = 0.00), disruption of study time (p = 0.00), sleep disturbances (p = 0.00), issues in personal relationships (p = 0.00), and absenteeism (p = 0.00). Associated factors included being sexually active, having a family history of dysmenorrhea, and the presence of depression.ConclusionDysmenorrhea is prevalent in this study and has a significant impact on academic activities. Family history of dysmenorrhea, being sexually active, and the presence of depression are associated factors.
Do individuals' resist green home investment decisions? An empirical study from status quo bias and inertia perspective
Authors: R Sharmila Devi , Perumandla Swamy 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionThe study explores the influence of Status Quo Bias theory constructs and the mediating role of inertia on individuals' resistance in making sustainable green home investment decisions among Indian homeowners and prospective homebuyers.MethodsA structured questionnaire was administered to 404 participants, and data analysis was performed using Partial Least Squares Structured Equation Modeling (PLS SEM).ResultsThe findings indicate that factors such as loss aversion, transition costs, adherence to social norms, and self-efficacy to change significantly contribute to individuals' resistance to green home investments. Inertia further amplifies the relationship between transition costs, social norms, and self-efficacy to change, but does not mediate the impact of loss aversion.DiscussionThis study is valuable for enhancing our understanding of biases in decision-making processes. To combat this resistance, it is crucial to provide clear information about the benefits of green home upgrades and offer incentives that reduce perceived costs and risks. This research sheds new light on the influence of status quo bias and inertia specifically within the context of green home investment decisions, addressing contemporary concerns for environmental sustainability and the increasing importance of such decisions in today's world.
“If only balls could talk…”: barriers and opportunities to participation for students with blindness and visual impairment in specialized PE
Authors: Meier Stefan , Höger Brigitta , Giese Martin 
Published: December 2023

PurposeFor children with blindness and visual impairment (BVI) of all ages, disability sport and/or regular Physical Activity (PA) are deemed beneficial, promoting physical and mental health as well as increasing wellbeing and life satisfaction. In this regard, Physical Education (PE) serves as a foundation to regular and lifelong participation in PA, mainstream and/or disability sport. Research points towards manifold participation barriers for children with BVI in PE, which so far have mainly been investigated in inclusive settings and from the perspectives of sighted parents, teachers and peers. Consequently, people with BVI frequently consider PE a missed opportunity for lifelong PA. As transitioning from general to special schooling deems the only alternative to continue their education, questions arise in how far and in which ways specialized schools manage to accommodate their needs in PE. To address these gaps in literature, we investigated BVI students' perceived opportunities and barriers to participation in PE within a specialized school setting and their imaginations for possible (digital) improvements and solutions.Materials and methodsWithin the framework of Inclusive and Youth Participatory Action Research, we adopted the Mosaic Approach to investigate a sample of 19 students aged 14–20 at lower and upper secondary level in a specialized school in Austria. Data material included audio-recordings of interviews, student-guided school tours, photographs of significant places and objects and field protocols. The analysis was conducted with Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis.Results and conclusionThrough the analysis, we identified three themes. The data material firstly revealed the complex intricacies of how PE teachers can act as facilitators and gatekeepers to autonomous PA. Secondly, material norms function not only as barriers to participation even in a specialized school setting, but also constitute the basis for social hierarchies between students with various degrees of visual impairment. Thirdly, students imagined manifold digital solutions to enhance participation derived from their perceived barriers. The findings contribute to amplifying BVI individuals' voices and provide revealing insights in how participation in PA is enabled and prohibited for students with BVI which can not only help to improve specialized but also inclusive settings.
Modeling farmers’ willingness to engage in traceability systems: toward sustainable agricultural transformation
Authors: Huang Yatao , Fu Shaoling 
Published: December 2023

IntroductionThe primary objective of this study is to examine the factors that affect farmers’ willingness to engage in traceability systems. Traceability systems are widely promoted as technologies that ensure the quality and safety of agricultural products. However, the participation rate of farmers in developing countries remains low.MethodsTo empirically address this issue, the study analyzed structured interview data from 408 fruit farmers in Henan Province, Central China, using structural equation modeling and system dynamics.ResultsThe results indicate that attitude, perceived behavioral control, subjective norms, moral norms, and safety awareness are crucial factors influencing farmers’ willingness to engage. It is particularly noteworthy that system dynamics simulations revealed the significant role of improving attitude and subjective norms in promoting farmers’ willingness. Moreover, subjective norms have a positive influence on moral norms. We also found that gender, education, orchard area, income and access to credit have a significant positive impact on farmers’ willingness to engage.DiscussionBy uncovering the internal decision-making mechanisms behind farmers’ engagement in traceability systems, this study extends the research scope of agricultural technology adoption. These findings can serve as a basis for formulating traceability system policies and interventions in China and other developing countries.
Assessment of Candidate Reference Genes for Gene Expression Studies Using RT-qPCR in Colletotrichum fructicola from Litchi
Authors: Dong Dingming , Huang Rong , Hu Yuzhuan , Yang Xinyan , Xu Dagao , Jiang Zide 
Published: December 2023

Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) is a tropical fruit originating from southern China that is currently cultivated in subtropical and tropical regions worldwide. Litchi anthracnose, caused by Colletotrichum fructicola, a dominant species of Colletotrichum spp., is an important disease of litchi that damages the fruits in fields and in post-harvest storage. Real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) is a common technique with which to detect the expression of and function of target genes quickly and precisely, and stable reference genes are crucial. However, there is no comprehensive information on suitable reference genes of C. fructicola present. Here, we designed eight candidate genes (GAPDH, α-tubulin, 18S, β-tubulin, EF1a, TATA, RPS5, and EF3) using RefFinder software (programs: geNorm, ΔCt, BestKeeper, and NormFinder) to investigate their reliability in the detection of C. fructicola under five different treatments (fungal development stage, temperature, UV, culture medium, and fungicide). The results showed the optimal reference genes under different conditions: EF1a and α-tubulin for developmental stage; α-tubulin and β-tubulin for temperature; α-tubulin and RPS5 for UV treatment; RPS5 and α-tubulin for culture medium; α-tubulin, GAPDH, and TATA for fungicide treatments. The corresponding expression patterns of HSP70 (Heat shock protein 70) were significantly different when the most and the least stable reference genes were selected when treated under different conditions. Our study provides the first detailed list of optimal reference genes for the analysis of gene expression in C. fructicola via RT-qPCR, which should be useful for future functional studies of target genes in C. fructicola.