bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Identification of key genes as potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets for comorbidity of myasthenia gravis and COVID-19
Authors: Huang Liyan , Zuo Yao , Yang Hui , He Xiaofang , Zhang Lin 
Published: February 2024

IntroductionMyasthenia gravis (MG) is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular disorder. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has a significant impact on the health and quality of life of MG patients and may even trigger the onset of MG in some cases. With the worldwide development of the COVID-19 vaccination, several new-onset MG cases and exacerbations following the COVID-19 vaccines have been acknowledged. The potential link between myasthenia gravis (MG) and COVID-19 has prompted the need for further investigation into the underlying molecular mechanism.Methods and resultsThe differential expression analysis identified six differentially expressed genes (DEGs) shared by myasthenia gravis (MG) and COVID-19, namely SAMD9, PLEK, GZMB, JUNB, NR4A1, and NR1D1. The relationship between the six common genes and immune cells was investigated in the COVID-19 dataset. The predictive value of the shared genes was assessed and a nomogram was constructed using machine learning algorithms. The regulatory miRNAs, transcription factors and small molecular drugs were predicted, and the molecular docking was carried out by AutoDock.DiscussionWe have identified six common DEGs of MG and COVID-19 and explored their immunological effects and regulatory mechanisms. The result may provide new insights for further mechanism research.
Hexasodium fytate exposure-response correlations in a randomized, placebo-controlled study of patients on dialysis with cardiovascular calcification
Authors: Perelló Joan , Alberti Joan , Torres Juan Vicente , Ferrer Miguel D. , Perez M. Mar , Bassissi Firas , Gold Alex , Raggi Paolo , Chertow Glenn M. , Salcedo Carolina 
Published: February 2024

Background: Patients receiving dialysis have high cardiovascular risk in part due to extensive vascular calcification. In the CaLIPSO study, infusion of hexasodium fytate (SNF472), the hexasodium salt of inositol hexaphosphate, for 52 weeks thrice weekly during hemodialysis significantly reduced progression of coronary artery calcification (CAC). This report examines pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) and exposure-efficacy in CaLIPSO.Methods: We measured hexasodium fytate plasma concentrations (PK) by validated liquid chromatography-mass spectroscopy, and hydroxyapatite crystallization in plasma (PD) by validated spectrophotometry. Analyses included patients evaluable for PK, PD, and CAC change (per-protocol analysis). We developed a simple Emax model for maximum concentration (Cmax) and PD effect, and linear and non-linear Emax models for exposure-efficacy among individual average Cmax and absolute and percent changes in CAC score from baseline to week 52.Results: Among evaluable patients receiving placebo (n = 15), 300 mg (n = 20), or 600 mg (n = 20), average Cmax across visits was not quantifiable (&lt;0.76 μM), 15 μM, and 46 μM, respectively. These results suggest a more-than-proportional increase, without accumulation, with a Cmax ratio of approximately 3 for the doses administered. Average inhibition of hydroxyapatite crystallization was 15%, 61%, and 75%, respectively, and similar across visits. Simple Emax models described 80% maximal effect at exposures &gt;21.9 µM and a plateau in exposure-efficacy above the third quartile of Cmax (≥32 µM).Conclusion: Hexasodium fytate has exposure-dependent effects on hydroxyapatite crystallization and progression of cardiovascular calcification. Simple Emax models show robust relations among exposure, inhibition of hydroxyapatite crystallization, and change in CAC volume.Clinical Trial Registration:https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; identifier NCT02966028.
Time-based prospective memory in preschoolers – the role of time monitoring behavior
Authors: Szpakiewicz Elżbieta , Józefacka Natalia Maja 
Published: February 2024

BackgroundTime-based prospective memory (TBPM) refers to the ability to remember to perform an intended activity at a specific time in the future or after a specific time interval. This article reviews TBPM memory in preschool children and explores the role of time monitoring behavior in TBPM performance.MethodsA total of 242 preschool-aged children (aged 2–6) performed a prospective memory task, wherein prospective memory accuracy, ongoing task performance, and time monitoring activity were assessed. Additionally, the study examined the relationship of various cognitive abilities to TBPM performance through the use of appropriate cognitive tasks.ResultsThe first signs of TBPM were observed in children as young as 2 years old. No significant age differences were identified; preschoolers can perform a delayed intention on their own initiative at a certain point in the future only to a minimal extent. The majority of variance in TBPM performance could be explained by time checking behavior.ConclusionThe current study indicated that even 2-year-olds can perform TBPM at a basic level when the task is sufficiently understandable. While many cognitive abilities are correlated with TBPM performance, it appears that only time checking behavior plays a significant role in TBPM among preschoolers.
Worse becomes the worst: obesity inequality, its determinants and policy options in Iran
Authors: Toorang Fatemeh , Amiri Parisa , Djazayery Abolghassem , Pouraram Hamed , Takian Amirhossein 
Published: February 2024

BackgroundThis tracked obesity inequality and identified its determinants among the population of Iran. In addition, it examined the impact of implemented policies on these inequalities.MethodsThis study was performed in two phases. First, we conducted a rapid review of the disparity in obesity prevalence in Iran. Then we investigated the main determinants of this inequality in a qualitative study. In addition, we examined Iran’s policies to deal with obesity from the perspective of equality. We conducted 30 Semi-structured interviews with various obesity stakeholders selected through a purposive snowball sampling method between November 25, 2019, and August 5, 2020. In the inductive approach, we used the content analysis method based on the Corbin and Status framework to analyze the data using MAXQDA-2020. The consolidating criteria for reporting a Qualitative Study (COREQ-32) were applied to conduct and report the study.ResultsInequalities in the prevalence of obesity in terms of place of residence, gender, education, and other socioeconomic characteristics were identified in Iran. Participants believed that obesity and inequality are linked through immediate and intermediate causes. Inequality in access to healthy foods, physical activity facilities, and health care are the immediate causes of this inequality. Intermediate factors include inequality against women, children, and refugees, and inequality in access to information, education, and financial resources. Policymakers should implement equity-oriented obesity control policies such as taxing unhealthy foods, subsidizing healthy foods, providing healthy and free meals in schools, especially in disadvantaged areas, and providing nutrient-rich foods to low-income families. Also, environmental re-engineering to increase opportunities for physical activity should be considered. Of course, for the fundamental reduction of these inequalities, the comprehensive approach of all statesmen is necessary.ConclusionObesity inequality is a health-threatening issue in Iran that can prevent achieving human development goals. Targeting the underlying causes of obesity, including inequalities, must be considered.
Development and effectiveness of a mobile-based autonomy support program for the prevention of metabolic syndrome in middle-aged women
Authors: Seo Miseon , Jun Eun-Young , Oh Hyunjin 
Published: February 2024

ObjectiveUtilizing self-directed strategies for maintaining and managing healthy lifestyle habits is efficient, and it is essential to consider individual motivation, as it is a factor that directly influences the adoption and maintenance of healthy behaviors. The study aimed to assess the effects of a mobile-based autonomy support program on basic psychological needs, autonomous motivation, health behavior, and metabolic syndrome indicators in middle-aged women.MethodsThis study was a non-randomized controlled trial with a pre-test and post-test design, focused on validating a mobile-based autonomy-supportive program to prevent metabolic syndrome in middle-aged women. The experimental group participated in a 12-week mobile-based autonomy support program, which included components such as education, physical activity guidance, dietary management, and real-time data monitoring. In contrast, the control group was provided with comparable educational resources. Assessments of basic psychological needs, autonomous motivation, health behavior, and metabolic syndrome indicators were conducted at baseline and again at the 12-week mark.ResultsAfter a 12-week period, the experimental group demonstrated significant enhancements in autonomy (p = 0.004) and competence (p &lt; 0.001), two key dimensions of basic psychological needs. Autonomous motivation (p &lt; 0.001) and health behavior scores (p &lt; 0.001) were also significantly higher in the experimental group, while waist circumference (p = 0.048) and systolic blood pressure (p = 0.011) were significantly reduced. Other variables such as relatedness, high-density cholesterol, fasting blood sugar, diastolic blood pressure, and neutral fat scores were also improved in the experimental group, but these changes were not statistically significant.ConclusionThe autonomy support program offers a cost-effective and community-accessible health care strategy for middle-aged women and may be integrated into various nursing practices.
An overlooked poultry trade network of the smallholder farms in the border provinces of Thailand, 2021: implications for avian influenza surveillance
Authors: Hinjoy Soawapak , Thumrin Pornchai , Sridet Jitphanu , Chaiyaso Chat , Suddee Weerachai , Thukngamdee Yupawat , Yasopa Oiythip , Prasarnphanich Ong-orn , Na Nan Somruethai , Smithsuwan Punnarai , Rodchangphuen Janjao , Sulpizio Carlie L. , Wiratsudakul Anuwat 
Published: February 2024

IntroductionIn Thailand, community-level poultry trade is conducted on a small-scale involving farmers and traders with many trade networks. Understanding the poultry movements may help identify different activities that farmers and traders might contribute to the spread of avian influenza.MethodsThis study aimed to describe the characteristics of players involved in the poultry trade network at the northeastern border of Thailand using network analysis approaches. Mukdahan and Nakhon Phanom provinces, which border Laos, and Ubon Ratchathani province, which borders both Laos and Cambodia, were selected as survey sites.ResultsLocal veterinary officers identified and interviewed 338 poultry farmers and eight poultry traders in 2021. A weighted directed network identified incoming and outgoing movements of where the subdistricts traded chickens. Ninety-nine subdistricts and 181 trade links were captured. A self-looping (trader and consumer in the same subdistrict) feedback was found in 56 of 99 subdistricts. The median distance of the movements was 14.02 km (interquartile range (IQR): 6.04–102.74 km), with a maximum of 823.08 km. Most subdistricts in the network had few poultry trade connections, with a median of 1. They typically connected to 1–5 other subdistricts, most often receiving poultry from 1 to 2.5 subdistricts, and sending to 1–2 subdistricts. The subdistricts with the highest overall and in-degree centrality were located in Mukdahan province, whereas one with the highest out-degree centrality was found in Nakhon Phanom province.DiscussionThe poultry movement pattern observed in this network helps explain how avian influenza could spread over the networks once introduced.
Owner expectations and surprises of dog ownership experiences in the United Kingdom
Authors: Anderson Katharine L. , Holland Katrina E. , Casey Rachel A. , Cooper Ben , Christley Robert M. 
Published: February 2024

IntroductionAlthough many owners are satisfied by dog ownership, large numbers of dogs are relinquished annually, with an estimated 130,000 dogs cared for each year by rescue organisations in the UK. Unrealistic ownership expectations are a potential factor in the decision to relinquish and therefore understanding what surprises owners about the realities of ownership and how this meets their expectations is vital.MethodsUsing a retrospective cross-sectional cohort study design, as part of Dogs Trust’s National Dog Survey 2021, owners were asked ‘what has surprised you most about owning a dog?’ and to classify how their experiences had compared with their expectations on a list of aspects of ownership as either more than, less than or as expected. Free text responses (n= 2,000) were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis in NVivo Pro (v.12 QSR) and a quantitative summary of classified expectations (n=354,224) was conducted in R.ResultsMany aspects of ownership were reported to be as expected, however a discrepancy between expectation and reality regarding some aspects was revealed. The cost of vet visits was greater than expected for the majority of respondents (52%), whilst other factors that often exceeded expectations included buying/rehoming cost (33%) and amount of patience needed (25%). Damage to furniture was less than expected for many (50%) as was damage to garden (33%). From the thematic analysis, four themes were generated that reflected what surprised owners most about ownership: emotional connectedness of human–dog relationships; dog’s impact on human health/wellbeing; understanding what dogs are like; and meeting the demands of ownership.ConclusionOverall these results aid our understanding of dog-human interactions, highlighting the complexity of the dog-owner relationship which may come with unanticipated costs. Whilst this study’s results are reassuring given many aspects of ownership were as expected, and surprises were often positive, some areas had greater impacts than expected, raising opportunities for intervention, resources or support. The aim would be to manage owners’ expectations prior to acquisition or ensure these are more realistically met, reducing the likelihood of negative welfare implications for both dog and owner.
Rapid detection of high consequence and emerging viral pathogens in pigs
Authors: Neujahr Alison C. , Loy Duan S. , Loy John Dustin , Brodersen Bruce W. , Fernando Samodha C. 
Published: February 2024

IntroductionAn increasing emergence of novel animal pathogens has been observed over the last decade. Viruses are a major contributor to the increased emergence and therefore, veterinary surveillance and testing procedures are greatly needed to rapidly and accurately detect high-consequence animal diseases such as Foot and Mouth Disease, Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza, Classical Swine Fever, and African Swine Fever. The major detection methods for such diseases include real-time PCR assays and pathogen-specific antibodies among others. However, due to genetic drift or -shift in virus genomes, failure to detect such pathogens is a risk with devastating consequences. Additionally, the emergence of novel pathogens with no prior knowledge requires non-biased detection methods for discovery.MethodsUtilizing enrichment techniques coupled with Oxford Nanopore Technologies MinION™ sequencing platform, we developed a sample processing and analysis pipeline to identify DNA and RNA viruses and bacterial pathogens from clinical samples.Results and discussionThe sample processing and analysis pipeline developed allows the identification of both DNA and RNA viruses and bacterial pathogens simultaneously from a single tissue sample and provides results in less than 12 h. Preliminary evaluation of this method using surrogate viruses in different matrices and using clinical samples from animals with unknown disease causality, we demonstrate that this method can be used to simultaneously detect pathogens from multiple domains of life simultaneously with high confidence.
Screening and selection of essential oils for an intranasal spray against bovine respiratory pathogens based on antimicrobial, antiviral, immunomodulatory, and antibiofilm activities
Authors: Amat Samat , Magossi Gabriela , Rakibuzzaman AGM , Holman Devin B. , Schmidt Kaycie N. , Kosel Luke , Ramamoorthy Sheela 
Published: February 2024

IntroductionThe rise in antibiotic resistant pathogens associated with bovine respiratory disease (BRD) poses a serious challenge, particularly to the beef feedlot industry, as they currently depend on antibiotics to prevent BRD to mitigate the financial burden (approx. $1 billion annual loss) inflicted by BRD-associated high mortality and morbidity in feedlot cattle. Thus, there is an impetus need for the development of antimicrobial alternative strategies against BRD. This study aimed to screen and select candidate essential oils (EOs) for the development of an intranasal EO spray that can inhibit BRD pathogens and promote microbiota-mediated respiratory health.MethodsThe effects of selected EOs (ajowan, cinnamon leaf, citronella, grapefruit, fennel, and thyme) on a bovine nasopharyngeal microbiota culture were evaluated using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The microbiota culture was enriched by incubating nasopharyngeal swabs obtained from finishing beef heifers in brain heart infusion broth with and without EOs (0.025%, v/v). These EOs were then also evaluated for their immunomodulatory effects on bovine turbinate (BT) cells by analyzing the concentrations of 15 cytokines and chemokines in cell culture after 24 h incubation. The crystal violet assay was done to assess the antibiofilm activity of EOs against Escherichia coli UMN026 strain. Finally, 15 EOs were screened for their antiviral activity against the bovine viral diarrhea virus 1 (BVDV-1) using BT cells and a fluorescence-based method.ResultsAjowan, fennel, and thyme resulted in a moderate reduction of overall nasopharyngeal microbiota growth with significant alterations of both alpha and beta diversity, and the relative abundance of predominant bacterial families (e.g., increasing Enterobacteriaceae and decreasing Moraxellaceae) compared to the control (p &lt; 0.05). Co-incubation of BT cells with selected EOs resulted in minimal alterations in cytokine and chemokine levels (p &gt; 0.05). Ajowan, thyme, fennel, and cinnamon leaf exhibited antibiofilm activity at concentrations of 0.025 and 0.05%. Reduction of BVDV-1 replication in BT cells was observed with thyme (strong), and ajowan and citronella (moderate) at 0.0125% concentration.DiscussionAccordingly, ajowan, thyme, fennel, cinnamon leaf, and citronella EOs were selected for further development as an intranasal EO spray to prevent and control of BRD pathogens in feedlot cattle.
In Vitro Antibacterial Activity of Ceftobiprole and Comparator Compounds against Nation-Wide Bloodstream Isolates and Different Sequence Types of MRSA
Authors: Li Lingqin , Zhou Wangxiao , Chen Yunbo , Shen Ping , Xiao Yonghong 
Published: February 2024

Bloodstream infections by bacteria, especially multidrug-resistant bacteria, remain a worldwide public health concern. We evaluated the antibacterial activity of ceftobiprole and comparable drugs against different bloodstream isolates and different sequence types of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in China. We found that MRSA, methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA), and methicillin-susceptible coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (MSCNS) displayed ceftobiprole sensitivity rates of >95%, which are similar to the rates for linezolid, daptomycin, and vancomycin. Of the tested MRCNS strains, 90.4% were sensitive to ceftobiprole. The sensitivities of ST59, ST398, and ST22 MRSA to ceftobiprole were higher than that of ST239. Ceftobiprole’s MIC50/90 value against Enterococcus faecalis was 0.25/2 mg/L, whereas Enterococcus faecium was completely resistant to this drug. Ceftobiprole exhibited no activity against ESBL-positive Enterobacterales, with resistance rates between 78.6% and 100%. For ESBL-negative Enterobacterales, excluding Klebsiella oxytoca, the sensitivity to ceftobiprole was comparable to that of ceftazidime, ceftriaxone, and cefepime. The MIC50/90 value of ceftobiprole against Pseudomonas aeruginosa was 2/16 mg/L, and for Acinetobacter baumannii, it was 32/>32 mg/L. Thus, ceftobiprole shows excellent antimicrobial activity against ESBL-negative Enterobacterales and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (comparable to that of ceftazidime, ceftriaxone, and cefepime); however, it is not effective against ESBL-positive Enterobacterales and Acinetobacter baumannii. These results provide important information to clinicians.
How Elongated? The Pattern of Elongation of Cervical Centra of Elasmosaurus platyurus with Comments on Cervical Elongation Patterns among Plesiosauromorphs
Authors: O’Gorman José Patricio 
Published: February 2024

Elasmosaurids comprise some of the most extreme morphotypes of plesiosaurs. Thus, the study of their neck and vertebrae elongation patterns plays a crucial role in understanding the anatomy of elasmosaurids. In this study, the taphonomic distortion of the holotype of Elasmosaurus platyurus and its effects on the vertebral length index (VLI) values are evaluated, and a new index to describe the neck is proposed (MAVLI = mean value of the vertebral elongation index of the anterior two-thirds of neck vertebrae). The results provide a strong foundation for a new scheme of neck elongation patterns that divide the diversity of the neck elongation of plesiosauriomorphs into three categories: not-elongate (MAVLI < 95 and Max VLI < 100), elongate (125 > MAVLI > 95 and 100 < Max VLI < 135), and extremely elongated (MAVLI > 125 and Max VLI > 135).
Pengaruh Gaya Kepemimpinan Terhadap Motivasi Kerja Aparatur Desa Babul Makmur Kecamatan Simeulue Barat Kabupaten Simeulue
Authors: Yutika Astri Nova , Jalil Ivon 
Published: February 2024

ABSTRAKPenelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui Pengaruh Gaya Kepemimpinan Terhadap Motivasi Kerja Aparatur Desa Babul Makmur Kecamatan Simeulue Barat Kabupaten Simeulue. Metode pengumpulan data yang digunakan adalah observasi, dokumentasi dan wawancara. Metode analisis data yang digunakan adalah penelitian deskriptif dengan menggunakan metode dan pendekatan kuantitatif yang menggambarkan gaya kepemimpinan terhadap motivasi kerja aparatur desa. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa hasil pengujian secara individual variabel Gaya Kepemimpinan mempunyai berpengaruh yang positif dan signifikan terhadap Motivasi Kerja Aparatur Desa di Desa Babul Makmur Kecamatan Simeulue Barat Kabupaten Simeulue. Berdasarkan perhitungan analisis koefisien korelasi dan determinasi penulis dapat menjelaskan bahwa tingkat persentase yang dipengaruhi oleh variabel Gaya Kepemimpinan terhadap Motivasi Kerja Aparatur Desa di Desa Babul Makmur Kecamatan Simeulue Barat Kabupaten Simeulue sebesar 85,2 persen sedangkan sisanya sebesar 14,8 persen dapat dijelaskan oleh variabel lain diluar model penelitian. Kata Kunci: Gaya Kepemimpinan, Motivasi Kerja