bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comparing the efficacy of therapeutic Thai acupressure on plantar acupoints and laser cane therapy on freezing of gait in Parkinson’s disease: a randomized non-inferiority trial
Authors: Miyahara Yuka , Phokaewvarangkul Onanong , Kerr Stephen , Anan Chanawat , Toriumi Haruki , Bhidayasiri Roongroj 
Published: January 2024

BackgroundON-freezing of gait (ON-FOG) in Parkinson’s disease (PD), often resistant to medication, is linked to sensory deficits and proprioceptive impairment, and results in falls and reduced life quality. While visual cues from a laser cane (LC), which rapidly accesses the motor cortex, are commonly used to compensate for proprioceptive impairment, increased visual reliance may be affected by disease progression. Emerging evidence suggests that modulation of peripheral sensory processing may alleviate ON-FOG, and therapeutic Thai acupressure (TTA) may be a solution. This study aims to evaluate the effect of TTA in alleviating ON-FOG and compare its effectiveness to LC in patients with PD.MethodsThis open-label, non-inferiority trial randomized 90 PD patients with ON-FOG equally into three arms: TTA for plantar nerve stimulation for 96 s, LC for visual cueing, and sham control (SC). Stride length was the primary non-inferiority endpoint [non-inferiority margin: lower limit of 95% confidence interval (CI) above −10 cm in mean change difference in pre- and immediately post-intervention in TTA versus LC (one-sided)]. Secondary outcomes included FOG episodes, double support time, velocity, cadence, step length, timed up and go (TUG) test, and visual analog scale (VAS) score.ResultsTTA showed non-inferiority to LC in stride length (mean = −0.7 cm; 95% CI: −6.55; 5.15) (one-sided). The improvements with TTA and LC versus SC were comparable between (mean = 13.11 cm; 95% CI: 7.26; 18.96) and (mean = 13.8 cm; 95% CI: 7.96; 19.65) (one-sided). Secondary outcomes favored TTA and LC over SC with improved FOG, velocity, step length, and VAS scores, while only TTA resulted in improved double support time, cadence, and TUG test results. No complications occurred.ConclusionThe efficacy of TTA, which improves stride length, is non-inferior to that of LC and consequently alleviates FOG comparable to LC. TTA might enhance proprioceptive function and reduce visual dependence. Therefore, TTA, characterized by its non-invasive, simple, and safe techniques, is a potential non-pharmacological alternative for ON-FOG treatment and might enhance overall quality of life. However, further research into the mechanism, efficacy, and utilization of TTA is essential.Clinical trial registrationhttps://www.thaiclinicaltrials.org/show/TCTR20200317001, identifier TCTR20200317001.
A positive association between food insecurity and the prevalence of overactive bladder in U.S. adults
Authors: Xiao Yunfei , Yin Shan , Bai Yunjin , Wang Jiahao , Cui Jianwei , Yang Yaqing , Wang Jia 
Published: January 2024

ObjectiveThis study aims to examine the correlation between overactive bladder (OAB) and food insecurity.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional analysis utilizing extensive population data derived from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2007–2018. The status of Household food insecurity is evaluated by the US Food Security Survey Module. To explore the relationship between food insecurity and OAB, three multivariable logistic regression models were carried out. Additionally, interaction and stratified analyses were also performed to find whether some factors have the potential to alter the correlation.ResultsThere were 29,129 participants enrolled in the study. Compared to the other three groups, individuals with full food security exhibited a lower proportion of nocturia, urinary urgency incontinence, and OAB. In the fully-adjusted model, it was found that people experiencing food insecurity have a significantly higher prevalence of OAB compared to those with food security in the fully-adjusted model (OR = 1.540, 95%CI 1.359–1.745). Additionally, there was a significant association between the levels of food insecurity and an increased risk of OAB prevalence was also observed (marginal food security: OR = 1.312, low food security: OR = 1.559, and very low food security: OR = 1.759). No significant interaction was seen in the fully-adjusted model.ConclusionThere is a strong positive correlation between food insecurity and the prevalence of OAB. Similarly, the correlation between levels of food insecurity and OAB also indicates the same trend. Namely, the more insecure food, the higher risk of OAB prevalence in the population.
Analysis of influencing factors of serum SCCA elevation in 309 CAP patients with normal CEA,NSE and CYFRA21-1
Authors: Wang Jinghan , Tang Xiao , Liu Xin , Zhang Jing 
Published: January 2024

IntroductionSquamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCCA) is one of the auxiliary diagnostic indicators of lung squamous cell carcinoma, and an increase in serum SCCA can predict the occurrence of lung squamous cell carcinoma. However, whether SCCA is also elevated in pneumonia patients without malignancy is still not clear. Therefore, we studied influencing factors of elevated serum SCCA in patients with community-acquired pneumonia.MethodsWe retrospectively enrolled 309 patients who were admitted to the Respiratory department with normal serum Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), Neuron specific enolase (NSE), and Cytokeratin 19 fragment (CYFRA21-1) level and were diagnosed with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). The patients’ serum SCCA level, body temperature, age, sex, white blood cell (WBC) count, hypersensitive C-reactive protein (Hs-CRP) level, and serum amyloid A (SAA) were recorded. Logistic regression models were used to analyze the risk factors of SCCA elevation. The dose-response relationship between temperature and risk of SCCA increase was analyzed using Restricted cubic splines (RCS).ResultsOf the 309 patients, 143(46.3%) showed elevated SCCA levels. The logistic regression analysis revealed a significant influence of age and body temperature on elevated SCCA (P&lt;0.05) levels. For every one-year increase in age, the probability of elevated SCCA decreased by 3% [OR=0.97,95%CI:0.95,0.99].For every 1°C increase in body temperature, the risk of elevated SCCA increased by 2.75 times [OR=3.75,95%CI:2.55,5.49].The patients were sorted into quartiles based on body temperature. Compared with patients in the Q1 of body temperature group, patients in the Q3 group were at 7.92 times higher risk [OR=7.92, 95%CI:3.27,19.16].and the risk of elevated SCCA was increased by 22.85 times in the Q4 group [OR=23.85,95%CI:8.38,67.89] after adjusting for age, gender, Hs-CRP, SAA, and WBC. RCS analysis showed there was a linear relationship between temperature index and risk of elevated SCCA.ConclusionIn summary, for CAP patients with normal CEA,NSE and CYFRA21-1 level, age and body temperature are influencing factors of SCCA elevation. Higher body temperature has a strong association with the occurrence of SCCA elevation.
The Persian version of the body esteem scale among Iranian adolescents: a translation, psychometrics, and network analysis
Authors: Sharif-Nia Hamid , Sivarajan Froelicher Erika , She Long , Jafari-Koulaee Azar , Hejazi Sima , Mosazadeh Hasan , Goudarzian Amir Hossein , Hasan Nejad Ghaem 
Published: January 2024

IntroductionThe psychometric properties of the body esteem scale have not been assessed in Iran. Therefore, the aim of this study was to translate and determine the validity and reliability of the Persian version of the body esteem scale among Iranian adolescents.MethodsThe sample of this methodological study consisted of 504 adolescents [mean age: 16.55 (SD = 1.54) years] living in Tehran City, Iran. After translation of the scale, its content validity (quantitative and qualitative) and structural (exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis), convergent, and discriminant validity were evaluated. Exploratory graph analysis was performed to determine the number of factors. Cronbach’s alpha, composite reliability, and maximal reliability were calculated.ResultsIn the content validity evaluation step, all items had acceptable scores and were retained. The results of exploratory factor analysis with Promax rotation and exploratory graph analysis extracted three factors accounting for 49.49% of the variance, comprising 18 items. Furthermore, after necessary modifications during CFA, the final model was approved. Convergent and discriminant validity were confirmed. Cronbach’s alpha, CR, and MaxR for all constructs were greater than 0.7, demonstrating good internal consistency and construct reliability.ConclusionAccording to the results, the Persian version of the body esteem scale has a valid structure and acceptable reliability. Health professionals, in many ways, can use this scale.
Empowering motivation: the journey of wheelchair basketball athletes to overcome constraints
Authors: Sarol Halil 
Published: January 2024

IntroductionThe aim of this phenomenological study is to determine the motivational factors in the participation of wheelchair basketball players in sports according to Self-Determination Theory.MethodsThe study group of the research was determined by the criterion sampling method, which is one of the purposeful sampling methods. Accordingly, thirteen (13) wheelchair athletes constituted the study group. In the research, a personal information form and a semi-structured interview form were prepared as data collection tools within the framework of the self-determination theory. Interviews were conducted face-to-face with the prepared interview forms. The data were analyzed by reflexive thematic analysis method.ResultsSix (6) themes emerged: constraints, coping strategies, appreciation, positive feedback, need for existence, and development. Sixteen sub-themes related to these themes were identified.ConclusionThe most significant factors causing a lack of motivation in wheelchair basketball athletes were observed to be structural constraints such as access to materials and facilities. Extrinsic sources of motivation were identified as the positive attitudes and behaviors of individuals in their environment, often related to admiration, appreciation, and being set as an example, and this situation has a positive impact on wheelchair basketball athletes. On the other hand, it can be stated that intrinsic motivations such as identity change, gaining self-confidence, and the feeling of success are crucial in overcoming constraints through sports participation.
Relationships between team characteristics and soldiers’ organizational commitment and well-being: the mediating role of psychological resilience
Authors: Kanapeckaitė Rosita , Bagdžiūnienė Dalia 
Published: January 2024

BackgroundMilitary operations call for a great deal of readiness and resilience on the part of the soldiers, once confronted with high-stress scenarios. Resilience, in this context, has to do with the ability to effectively cope with the adverse impacts of setbacks and the accompanying stressors, ensuring that overall performance and combat effectiveness remain unhampered. In the modern military context, it is relevant to examine more deeply the phenomenon of soldiers’ resilience, its importance in positive organizational and personal outcomes as well as the role of team factors for the improving of soldiers’ resilience. The study aimed to examine team-level factors that determine soldiers’ psychological resilience and to reveal the mediating role of resilience in the relationships between team factors and organizational commitment and well-being.SampleA cross-sectional convenience sample included 422 soldiers on professional military duty in the Lithuanian Armed Forces.MethodsData were collected using self-administered questionnaire. We applied structural equation modeling to assess the research models.ResultsTeam cohesion and colleague support proved to be reliable predictors of increased psychological resilience; individuals with higher resilience were more committed to the organization and experienced higher well-being; the results confirmed the hypotheses that soldier resilience has a mediating effect on the relationships between team characteristics and their commitment, and well-being.ConclusionThe findings help clarify the relationships between team characteristics, soldiers’ resilience, commitment and well-being. They may be useful for improving soldier resilience through team cohesion, mutual support, cooperation, and for integrating team-building interventions into military resilience training programs.
Network analysis of depressive and anxiety symptoms in older Chinese adults with diabetes mellitus
Authors: Zhang Yajuan , Cui Yi , Li Yijun , Lu Hongliang , Huang He , Sui Jiaru , Guo Zhihua , Miao Danmin 
Published: January 2024

BackgroundThe move away from investigating mental disorders as whole using sum scores to the analysis of symptom-level interactions using network analysis has provided new insights into comorbidities. The current study explored the dynamic interactions between depressive and anxiety symptoms in older Chinese adults with diabetes mellitus (DM) and identified central and bridge symptoms in the depression-anxiety network to provide potential targets for prevention and intervention for depression and anxiety.MethodsThis study used a cross-sectional design with data from the 2017–2018 wave of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS). A regularized partial correlation network for depressive and anxiety symptoms was estimated based on self-reported scales completed by 1685 older adults with DM aged 65 years or older. Depressive and anxiety symptoms were assessed using the 10-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CESD-10) and the Seven-Item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), respectively. Expected influence (EI) and bridge expected influence (BEI) indices were calculated for each symptom.ResultsAccording to cutoff scores indicating the presence of depression and anxiety, the prevalences of depression and anxiety in our sample were 52.9% and 12.8%, respectively. The comorbidity rate of depression and anxiety was 11.5%. The six edges with the strongest regularized partial correlations were between symptoms from the same disorder. “Feeling blue/depressed”, “Nervousness or anxiety”, “Uncontrollable worry”, “Trouble relaxing”, and “Worry too much” had the highest EI values. “Nervousness or anxiety” and “Everything was an effort” exhibited the highest BEI values.ConclusionCentral and bridge symptoms were highlighted in this study. Targeting these symptoms may be effective in preventing the comorbidity of depressive and anxiety symptoms and facilitate interventions in older Chinese adults with DM who are at risk for or currently have depressive and anxiety symptoms.
Level and factors of support for the Living with the Virus policy in a Chinese adult general population: a mediation analysis via positive and negative attitudes toward the policy
Authors: Lau Joseph T. F. , Ng Joyce Hoi-Yuk , Goodwin Robin , Kang Tarandeep S. , Fong Vivian W. I. , Lau Mason M. C. , Yu Yanqiu 
Published: January 2024

BackgroundThis study investigated the public’s support for the Living with the Virus (LWV) policy, its associated factors, and related mediations at a time when more countries were considering adopting the LWV policy amid the COVID-19 pandemic.MethodsA random, population-based telephone survey was conducted among 500 Chinese adults in Hong Kong during March/April 2022.Results39.6% of the participants were supportive/strongly supportive of the LWV policy. Perceived efficacy of the control measures was negatively associated with the support and was partially mediated via the perception that the policy would greatly improve the economy/daily life of the policy. Perceived physical harms of the Omicron variant was negatively associated with the support and was fully mediated via perceived negative impacts of the policy. 26.2%/54.6% believed that the policy would improve the economy/daily life greatly; about 40% perceived negative impacts on deaths and the medical system due to the policy. COVID-19 ever infection did not significantly moderate the studied associations.ConclusionThe public was split regarding the support for the LWV policy and whether it would cause better economy/daily life, unnecessary deaths, and the collapse of the medical system. Health communication is needed in shifting toward the LWV policy.
Is intergenerational care associated with depression in older adults?
Authors: Han Shurong , Guo Jiahui , Xiang Jianjun 
Published: January 2024

BackgroundIt has become an alarming issue that older adults in China are facing mental health issues, causing severe depression. In this context, intergenerational care, in which grandparents care for young children instead of the young parents, is gaining importance. This study aims to explore the correlation between intergenerational care and depression among older adults, seeking alternative approaches to enhancing their quality of life. This study concludes that intergenerational care is an effective strategy for promoting active aging.MethodsThis study used multiple linear regression, propensity score matching, and additional analysis of heterogeneity, mediation, and moderation effects, with data from the 2018 CHARLS survey.ResultsThe results indicated a negative correlation between intergenerational care and depression among older adults. The correlation was stronger for females and younger older adults people. Additionally, social activities served as a mediator between intergenerational care and depression among older adults, and health satisfaction positively moderated this relationship.ConclusionThis study posits that intergenerational care serves as an effective approach for promoting active aging. It emphasizes the necessity for supportive government policies and community-family collaborations to encourage intergenerational care and its beneficial impact on mental health among older adults.
Effect of acute moderate-intensity cycling on cfDNA levels considering menstrual cycle phases
Authors: Sawai Akemi , Shida Takashi , Hoshikawa Yoshihiro , Hatanaka Sho , Ueda Mashiro , Kato Yuri , Tokinoya Katsuyuki , Natsui Hiroaki , Kawakami Yasushi , Takekoshi Kazuhiro 
Published: January 2024

IntroductionWe aimed to determine the effects of exercise on cell-free DNA (cfDNA) levels and concentration changes during the menstrual cycle in participants with regular menstrual cycles and no exercise habits.MethodsEleven sedentary female students with regular menstrual cycles and ovulation performed bicycle exercises at 60% VO2max for 30 min during the menstrual, ovulatory, and luteal phases. Blood samples were collected before (Pre), immediately after (Post 0), 30 min after (Post 30), and 60 min after (Post 60) exercise. Blood concentrations of ovarian hormones, cfDNA, prostaglandin F2a (PGF2α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and aromatase were evaluated.ResultsBased on the concentration of ovarian hormones, seven individuals were finally analyzed. No significant phase difference was observed in cfDNA across all time points. cfDNA (menstrual phase: p = 0.028, ovulatory phase: p = 0.018, and luteal phase: p = 0.048) and aromatase concentrations (menstrual phase: p = 0.040, ovulatory phase: p = 0.039, and luteal phase: p = 0.045) significantly increased from Pre to Post 0 in all phases. Serum estradiol (E2) levels were significantly higher in the luteal phase at all time points than in the menstrual phase (Pre: p &lt; 0.001, Post 0: p &lt; 0.001, Post 30: p = 0.005, and Post 60: p = 0.011); however, serum progesterone (P4) levels were significantly higher in the luteal phase at all time points than in the menstrual (Pre: p &lt; 0.001, Post 0: p &lt; 0.001, Post 30: p &lt; 0.001, and Post 60: p &lt; 0.001) and ovulatory phases (Pre: p = 0.005, Post 0: p = 0.005, Post 30: p = 0.003, and Post 60: p = 0.003). E2 levels significantly increased from Pre to Post 0 in the ovulatory and luteal phases, whereas P4 levels increased in the luteal phase. Progesterone to estradiol level ratio (P4/E2) changes from Pre to Post 0 (%baseline) during the luteal phase were significantly negatively correlated (r = −0.82, p = 0.046) with the changes in cfDNA from Pre to Post 0. Furthermore, the repeated measures correlation between P4/E2 and cfDNA level showed a significant negative correlation in ovulatory and luteal phases.DiscussionThe results indicate that while resting cfDNA levels are unlikely to be affected by a woman's menstrual cycle, the increase in cfDNA after exercise is higher in the ovulatory phase (when only E2 increases) and lower in the luteal phase (when E2 and P4 increase with exercise) compared to that in the menstrual phase (when E2 and P4 are in low levels), suggesting the contribution of increased ovarian hormone levels after exercise.
Exploring Aegilops caudata: A Comprehensive Study of the CslF6 Gene and β-Glucan
Authors: Marcotuli Ilaria , Caranfa Davide , Colasuonno Pasqualina , Giove Stefania Lucia , Gadaleta Agata 
Published: January 2024

In the quest for sustainable and nutritious food sources, exploration of ancient grains and wild relatives of cultivated cereals has gained attention. Aegilops caudata, a wild wheatgrass species, stands out as a promising genetic resource due to its potential for crop enhancement and intriguing nutritional properties. This manuscript investigates the CslF6 gene sequence and protein structure of Aegilops caudata, employing comparative analysis with other grass species to identify potential differences impacting β-glucan content. The study involves comprehensive isolation and characterization of the CslF6 gene in Ae. caudata, utilizing genomic sequence analysis, protein structure prediction, and comparative genomics. Comparisons with sequences from diverse monocots reveal evolutionary relationships, highlighting high identities with wheat genomes. Specific amino acid motifs in the CslF6 enzyme sequence, particularly those proximal to key catalytic motifs, exhibit variations among monocot species. These differences likely contribute to alterations in β-glucan composition, notably impacting the DP3:DP4 ratio, which is crucial for understanding and modulating the final β-glucan content. The study positions Ae. caudata uniquely within the evolutionary landscape of CslF6 among monocots, suggesting potential genetic divergence or unique functional adaptations within this species. Overall, this investigation enriches our understanding of β-glucan biosynthesis, shedding light on the role of specific amino acid residues in modulating enzymatic activity and polysaccharide composition.
Pengaruh E-Service Quality Terhadap Loyalitas Pelanggan Spotify Melalui Kepuasan Pelanggan
Authors: - Rafliansyah , Triwardhani Diana 
Published: January 2024

Penelitian kuantitatif ini memiliki objektif untuk mempelajari secara komprehesnif mengenai pengaruh e-service quality yang akan dianalisis untuk melihat tingkat loyalitas pelanggan aplikasi spotify. Selain itu, terdapat variabel mediasi atau intervening yaitu kepuasan pelanggan. Metode analisis data yang digunakan ialah pendekatan secara kuantitatif dengan metode purposive sampling dengan melibatkan responden sebanyak 100 peserta. Jenis data bersifat primer menggunakan skala likert dalam pengukurannya. Penelitian ini menggunakan analisis Partial Least Square (PLS) menggunakan aplikasi SmartPLS 3.0. Temuan dan hasil yang telah peneliti eksplorasi menunjukkan bahwa variabel e-service quality berpengaruh dengan signfikan terhadap loyalitas pelanggan sebagai variabel dependen yang dimedisi oleh kepuasan pelanggan. Akan tetapi, e-service quality tidak berpengaruh signifikan terhadap loyalitas pelanggan secara langsung pada aplikasi spotify.
Kata kunci: E-Service Quality, Loyalitas Pelanggan, Kepuasan Pelanggan, Spotify.