bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The effect of non-pharmacological sleep interventions on glycaemic measures in adults with sleep disturbances and behaviours: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Mostafa Samiul A , Hanif Wasim , Crowe Francesca , Balanos George , Nirantharakumar Krishnarajah , Ellis Jason G , Tahrani Abd A 
Published: January 2025

Background Sleep insufficiency is known to negatively impact on glucose metabolism. Consequently, there is interest in determining the impact of improving sleep on glucose metabolism. We conducted a meta-analysis of studies that aimed at improving sleep using cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) and/or sleep hygiene or sleep extension on glucose metabolism. Methods Searches were performed on MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and Cochrane. We included studies featuring adults≥18years, a sleep intervention and glycaemic measurements. The pooled mean differences were calculated by the inverse variance method. Results 24 studies (15 CBT-I and/or sleep hygiene; 9 sleep extension) were included. Meta-analysis of 12 studies ( n = 2,044) of CBT-I and/or sleep hygiene demonstrated a significant reduction in HbA1c of 0.27% (95% CI 0.07, 0.47, I2 74%, p = 0.008) compared to control. In T2DM ( n = 1,911; 9 studies), HbA1c level decrease was 0.43% (0.19, 0.67, I2 59%, p = 0.0004). There were no significant changes in fasting blood glucose analyses nor in any sleep extension intervention. For quality assessment, only 9 studies had low concern. Conclusions Using CBT-I and/or sleep hygiene interventions led to significant reductions in HbA1c levels, which were clinically meaningful in T2DM. Addressing sleep insufficiency should be an integral part of diabetes care. Registration PROSPERO Identification number: CRD42022376606.
Reinforcement Learning is Impaired in the Sub-acute Post-stroke Period
Authors: Branscheidt Meret , Hadjiosif Alkis M. , Anaya Manuel A. , Keller Jennifer , Widmer Mario , Runnalls Keith D. , Luft Andreas R. , Bastian Amy J. , Krakauer John W. , Celnik Pablo A. 
Published: January 2025

Background: In humans, most spontaneous recovery from motor impairment after stroke occurs in the first 3 months. Studies in animal models show higher responsiveness to training over a similar time-period. Both phenomena are often attributed to a milieu of heightened plasticity, which may share some mechanistic overlap with plasticity associated with normal motor learning. Objective: Given that neurorehabilitation approaches are frequently predicated on motor learning principles, here we asked if the sensitivity of trial-to-trial learning for 2 kinds of motor learning processes often involved during rehabilitation is also enhanced early post-stroke. In a cross-sectional design, we compared (1) reinforcement and (2) error-based learning in 2 groups: 1 tested within 3 months after stroke (early group, N = 35) another tested more than 6 months after stroke (late group, N = 30). These 2 forms of motor learning were assessed with variations of the same visuomotor rotation task. Critically, motor execution was matched between the 2 groups. Results: Reinforcement learning was impaired in the early but not the late group, whereas error-based learning was unimpaired in either group. These findings could not be attributed to differences in baseline execution, cognitive impairment, gender, age, or lesion volume and location. Discussion: The presence of a deficit in reinforcement motor learning in the first 3 months after stroke has important implications for rehabilitation. Conclusion: It might be necessary to either increase reinforcement feedback given early after stroke, increase the dose of rehabilitation to compensate, or delay onset of rehabilitation approaches that may rely on reinforcement, for example, constraint-induced movement therapy, and instead emphasize other forms of motor training in the subacute time period.
Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis in early pregnancy: A rare and fatal diagnostic challenge
Authors: Rojas-Suarez Jose , Ramos María , Lazarte Isabel , Cifuentes Sofia , Leon Jorge , Castañeda Wendy , Morales Karen , Pajaro Yasaira , Dueñas-Castell Carmelo 
Published: January 2025

Objective This report details the complexities of diagnosing and treating rapid-onset multisystemic hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) during pregnancy, as evidenced by a fatal case in early pregnancy with severe hematological and obstetric complications. Case presentation A 20-year-old pregnant woman in her second pregnancy presented at 8 weeks of gestation with abdominal pain, fever, and rectal bleeding. Laboratory tests revealed leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, and anemia, leading to immediate transfusion and intensive care unit admission. Despite intensive interventions, including vasopressors and antibiotics, the patient developed progressive organ failure, with disseminated intravascular coagulation, and suffered a fatal stroke. Conclusions This critical case with severe complications demonstrates the diagnostic and treatment challenges of rapid-onset HLH in early pregnancy. Early and accurate differential diagnosis in obstetric emergencies is vital for conditions such as HLH. This case highlights the importance of multifaceted care in managing pregnant patients with complex, atypical presentations.
A feasibility study of a randomised controlled trial to assess the effect of cryotherapy vs standard treatment following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (RCR)
Authors: Norris Jennie , Roberts Christopher P , Imam Sam Z , Garnham Stephanie 
Published: January 2025

Background It has yet to be established whether cryotherapy is beneficial in reducing pain following rotator cuff repairs. This study aimed to investigate the feasibility of a RCT investigating whether cryotherapy reduces pain following arthroscopic RCR. Method Randomisation into standard care (n = 18) or standard care plus cryotherapy (n = 20) occurred in theatre following arthroscopic RCR. The cryotherapy group used an ICEBAND® device in addition to standard care. VAS scores were self-completed daily for 2 weeks, at 4 and 6 weeks, plus compliance with the ICEBAND® and any issues. Results 40 out of 62 eligible patients were recruited. 3 patients withdrew. 81% (n = 30) diaries were returned. There were some missing values in 17 questionnaires. During the first 2 days all cryotherapy patients (n = 17) wore the ICEBAND® at least 6 times, with 65% (n = 11) applying it at least 12 times. There were no major complications regarding band use though some patients reported requiring help to apply it. Conclusion Overall, the study design is feasible, but some improvements need to be made in methodology especially with respect to data collection. Compliance with the cryotherapy device was good, but a future study needs to ensure there is sufficient support on the ward to teach self-application as able.
The use of an automatic remote weight management system to track treatment response, identified drugs supply shortage and its consequences: A pilot study
Authors: Roth Idan , Cohen Ohad 
Published: January 2025

Objective The objective of this pilot study is to evaluate the feasibility of using an automatic weight management system to follow patients’ response to weight reduction medications and to identify early deviations from weight trajectories. Methods The pilot study involved 11 participants using Semaglutide for weight management, monitored over a 12-month period. A cloud-based, Wi-Fi-enabled remote weight management system collected and analyzed daily weight data from smart scales. The system's performance was evaluated during a period marked by a Semaglutide supply shortage. Results Participants achieved a cumulative weight loss of 85 kg until a supply shortage-induced trough in October 2022. This was followed by a 6–8 week plateau and a subsequent 13 kg cumulative weight gain. The study demonstrated the feasibility of digitally monitoring weight without attrition over 12 months and highlighted the impact of anti-obesity drug (AOD) supply constraints on weight trajectories. Conclusions The remote weight management system proved important for improving clinic efficacy and identifying trends impacting obesity outcomes through electronic data monitoring. The system's potential in increasing medication compliance and enhancing overall clinical outcomes warrants further research, particularly in light of the challenges posed by AOD supply fluctuations.
Reduced white matter integrity and disrupted brain network in children with type 2 and 3 spinal muscular atrophy
Authors: Nie Huirong , Lan Shasha , Wang Huan , Xiang Pei , Yan Mengzhen , Fan Yang , Shen Wanqing , Li Yijuan , Tang Wen , Yang Zhiyun , Liang Yujian , Chen Yingqian 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is caused by reduced expression of survival motor neuron (SMN) protein. Previous studies indicated SMA causes not only lower motor neuron degeneration but also extensive brain involvement. This study aimed to investigate the changes of brain white matter and structural network using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) in children with type 2 and 3 SMA.

Methods
Forty-two type 2 and 3 pediatric SMA patients and 42 age- and gender-matched healthy controls (HC) were prospectively enrolled in this study. The tract-based spatial statistics (TBSS) was used to assess white matter integrity and the structural network properties were calculated based on DTI white matter fiber tracking and the graph theory approach. A partial correlation was performed to explore the relationship between white matter parameters and clinical characteristics.

Results
In total, 42 patients (mean age, 10.86 ± 4.07 years; 23 men) were included. TBSS analysis revealed widespread white matter changes in SMA patients. The SMA patients showed changes in multiple small-world and network efficiency parameters. Compared to the HC group, SMA showed increased characteristic path length (Lp), normalized clustering coefficient (γ), small-world characteristic (σ), and decreased global efficiency (Eglob) (all p < 0.05). In the node properties, right supramarginal gyrus, right orbital part of superior frontal gyrus, right supplementary motor area, and left median cingulate and paracingulate gyri changed in SMA patients. A decreased axial diffusivity (AD) value was associated with lower Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale-Expanded scores (r = 0.45, p = 0.02), which means that the symptoms of SMA patients are more severe.

Conclusions
This study found white matter and DTI-based brain network abnormalities in SMA patients, suggesting SMN protein deficiency may affect white matter development.
Genomic and mutational analysis of Pseudomonas syringae pv. tagetis EB037 pathogenicity on sunflower
Authors: Maul Jude E. , Lydon John , Lakshman Dilip , Willard Colin , Kong Hyesuk , Roberts Daniel P. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background

Pseudomonas syringae pv. tagetis (Pstag) causes apical chlorosis on sunflower and various other plants of the Asteraceae family. Whole genome sequencing of Pstag strain EB037 and transposon-mutant derivatives, no longer capable of causing apical chlorosis, was conducted to improve understanding of the molecular basis of disease caused by this pathogen.

Results
A tripartite pathogenicity island (TPI) for a Type III secretion system (T3SS) with the complete hrp-hrc gene cluster and conserved effector locus was detected in the Pstag genome. The exchange effector region of the TPI contained genes potentially functioning in detoxification of the environment as well as two integrases, but no previously described T3SS effector homologues. In all, the Pstag EB037 genome contained homologues for at least 44 T3SS effectors with 30 having known functions. Plasmids similar with pTagA and pTagB of P. syringae pv. tagetis ICMP 4091 were also identified in the Pstag genome. The pTagA-like plasmid contained a complete Type IV secretion system (T4SS) with associated putative killer protein. Mutational analysis using transposon insertions within genes functioning in the T3SS and T4SS confirmed the role of both secretion systems and these plasmids in apical chlorosis. Transposon mutagenesis identified an additional 22 genes in loci, including two more plasmid-bound loci, involved in apical chlorosis on sunflower; some with known importance in other plant or animal pathosystems.

Conclusions
Apical chlorosis disease caused by Pstag EB037 is the result of a complex set of mechanisms. This study identified a TPI and homologues for at least 44 T3SS effectors, 30 of which with known functions in disease, and another 20 genes in loci correlated with apical chlorosis on sunflower. Two plasmids were detected that were correlated with apical chlorosis disease, one of which contained a complete T4SS that was correlated with disease. To our knowledge, we provide the first direct evidence for a T4SS functioning in disease by a pathogenic P. syringae strain.
Evaluation of genomic and phenomic prediction for application in apple breeding
Authors: Jung Michaela , Hodel Marius , Knauf Andrea , Kupper Daniela , Neuditschko Markus , Bühlmann-Schütz Simone , Studer Bruno , Patocchi Andrea , Broggini Giovanni AL 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Apple breeding schemes can be improved by using genomic prediction models to forecast the performance of breeding material. The predictive ability of these models depends on factors like trait genetic architecture, training set size, relatedness of the selected material to the training set, and the validation method used. Alternative genotyping methods such as RADseq and complementary data from near-infrared spectroscopy could help improve the cost-effectiveness of genomic prediction. However, the impact of these factors and alternative approaches on predictive ability beyond experimental populations still need to be investigated. In this study, we evaluated 137 prediction scenarios varying the described factors and alternative approaches, offering recommendations for implementing genomic selection in apple breeding.

Results
Our results show that extending the training set with germplasm related to the predicted breeding material can improve average predictive ability across eleven studied traits by up to 0.08. The study emphasizes the usefulness of leave-one-family-out cross-validation, reflecting the application of genomic prediction to a new family, although it reduced average predictive ability across traits by up to 0.24 compared to 10-fold cross-validation. Similar average predictive abilities across traits indicate that imputed RADseq data could be a suitable genotyping alternative to SNP array datasets. The best-performing scenario using near-infrared spectroscopy data for phenomic prediction showed a 0.35 decrease in average predictive ability across traits compared to conventional genomic prediction, suggesting that the tested phenomic prediction approach is impractical.

Conclusions
Extending the training set using germplasm related with the target breeding material is crucial to improve the predictive ability of genomic prediction in apple. RADseq is a viable alternative to SNP array genotyping, while phenomic prediction is impractical. These findings offer valuable guidance for applying genomic selection in apple breeding, ultimately leading to the development of breeding material with improved quality.
Framework for types of metainferences in mixed methods research
Authors: Younas Ahtisham , Fàbregues Sergi , Munce Sarah , Creswell John W 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
The generation of metainferences is a core and significant feature of mixed methods research. In recent years, there has been some discussion in the literature about criteria for appraising the quality of metainferences, the processes for generating them, and the critical role that assessing the “fit” of quantitative and qualitative data and results plays in this generative process. However, little is known about the types of insights that emerge from generating metainferences. To address this gap, this paper conceptualize and present the types and forms of metainferences that can be generated in MMR studies for guiding future research projects.

Methods
A critical review of literature sources was conducted, including peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, and research reports. We performed a non-systematic literature search in the Scopus, Web of Science, Ovid, and Google Scholar databases using general phrases such as “inferences in research”, “metainferences in mixed methods”, “inferences in mixed methods research”, and “inference types”. Additional searches included key methodological journals, such as the Journal of Mixed Methods Research, International Journal of Multiple Research Approaches, Methodological Innovations, and the Sage Research Methods database, to locate books, chapters, and peer-reviewed articles that discussed inferences and metainferences.

Results
We propose two broad types of metainferences and five sub-types. The broad metainferences are global and specific, and the subtypes include relational, predictive, causal, comparative, and elaborative metainferences. Furthermore, we provide examples of each type of metainference from published mixed methods empirical studies.

Conclusions
This paper contributes to the field of mixed methods research by expanding the knowledge about metainferences and offering a practical framework of types of metainferences for mixed methods researchers and educators. The proposed framework offers an approach to identifying and recognizing types of metainferences in mixed methods research and serves as an opportunity for future discussion on the nature, insights, and characteristic features of metainferences within this methodology. By proposing a foundation for metainferences, our framework advances this critical area of mixed methods research.
A systemic review of the utility of antituberculosis therapy for presumed tuberculous uveitis
Authors: Taylor Jemma W. , Wright Ginevra E. L. , Lim Lyndell L. , Denholm Justin T. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Uveitis presumed to be secondary to Mycobacterium tuberculosis is a rare but potentially blinding condition. Difficulty in making an accurate diagnosis and the low incidence of TB uveitis (TBU) contribute to the lack of evidence regarding the best management of this condition. This systematic review aims to analyse existing research to provide a summary of the literature regarding the utility of TB therapy for the management of TBU.

Methods
This systematic review was prospectively registered on PROSPERO (PROSPERO 2021 CRD42021273379). We searched Medline, Embase and Central databases, and the search was done on 20th June 2023 with an updated literature search.

Results
We included 55 studies and found that the heterogeneity in the methodology of these studies precluded metanalysis, and a narrative analysis was undertaken. Risk of bias analysis was undertaken using the Newcastle–Ottawa scale.

Conclusions
Key findings of this systematic review include multiple systemic biases in the available evidence, and general lack of control for confounding variables. This results in many unanswered questions regarding the utility of TB therapy for TBU and reinforces the need for more data in this area.
Increased aqueous humor levels of endothelin-1 in patients with open angle glaucoma
Authors: Hedberg-Buenz Adam , Boese Erin A. , Nyunt Angela W. , Sears Nathan C. , Pouw Andrew E. , Wang Kai , Fingert John H. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Endothelin is a potent vasoconstrictor and contributes to the regulation of vascular perfusion. Aberrant endothelin-1 (ET-1) levels in aqueous humor have been reported across a variety of vascular diseases of the eye, including glaucoma. These findings suggest that dysregulation of ET-1 production may contribute to glaucoma pathophysiology. In this study, aqueous humor from patients undergoing ocular surgery was assayed for ET-1 abundance and related to the presence of glaucoma.

Patients
Open angle glaucoma patients (n=62 total) from the ophthalmology clinics of the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics were enrolled in this study and organized into three distinct cohorts based on their diagnostic criteria, including those with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG, n=25 patients), normal tension glaucoma (NTG, n=17 patients), exfoliation glaucoma (XFG, n=8 patients), and normal controls (n=12 patients).

Methods
Aqueous humor was collected intraoperatively from patients undergoing surgeries for glaucoma (including minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries, trabeculectomy, or glaucoma drainage device implantation) for samples in the glaucoma cohorts and cataract extraction for those in the control cohort. Aqueous humor was assayed by ELISA to measure and compare ET-1 abundance between the glaucoma cohorts and control cohort. ET-1 levels were also analyzed with linear regression to control for the covariates of age and sex.

Results
ET-1 was significantly elevated in the aqueous humor of patients in the POAG (mean ± SD: 7.8 ± 5.1 pg/mL; p = 0.002) and NTG cohorts (6.1 ± 3.0 pg/mL; p = 0.030) compared to the control (4.0 ± 1.9 pg/mL). No significant difference in aqueous ET-1 was detected in the XFG cohort (6.2 ± 4.5 pg/mL; p = 0.230) compared to the control. Significantly higher ET-1 levels were detected in a merged grouping of all glaucoma cohorts (POAG, NTG, XFG) relative to controls (p = 0.021). Analysis of covariance indicated neither age nor sex was associated with ET-1 level (p = 0.60 and p = 0.27), respectively. Controlling for age and sex had minimal influence on the comparison of ET-1 levels in the POAG versus control cohort (p = 0.018) and nominal influence on the comparisons between the NTG (p = 0.089) or XFG cohort (p = 0.15) relative to the control.

Conclusions
Elevated ET-1 in aqueous humor was associated with POAG and NTG compared to controls amongst cohorts of patients at the University of Iowa. These data suggest that dysregulation of vascular perfusion may have a role in the pathophysiology of POAG. The analyses of NTG and XFG samples were limited by the relatively small sample sizes.
The role of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inflammatory markers in the progress of Alport syndrome in Egyptian children
Authors: Zaki Moushira , Orban Hisham A. , Shahba Mohamed A. , Moustafa Rehab S. I. , Adel Ahmed , Fadel Fatina I. , Selim Abeer , El-Bassyouni Hala T. , Youness Eman R. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Chronic inflammation and its control are crucial to the responses of glomerular and renal tubular cells. This contributes to the pathogenic mechanisms and advancement of the disease in Alport syndrome. The study aimed to elucidate the role of cyclooxygenase-2, Interleukin 4, Plasminogen activating inhibitor 1, and Prostaglandin E2 in the development and course of Alport syndrome.

Methods
In our study inflammatory markers were evaluated in 26 Alport syndrome patients, 15 males and 11 females and 24 controls.

Results
Their age ranged from 4 to 16 years (mean ± SD was 8.50 ± 2.877) and 24 were normal controls matching age and sex. The serum levels of cyclooxygenase-2, Prostaglandin E2, Interleukin 4, and Plasminogen activating inhibitor 1 were evaluated in all patients. The serum level of cyclooxygenase-2, Prostaglandin E2, Interleukin 4, and Plasminogen activating inhibitor 1 were all increased significantly in the Alport syndrome patients compared to control (588.68 ± 73.08, 42.57 ± 4.18, 42.32 ± 3.49, and 846.47 ± 45.433, respectively versus controls (369.12 ± 50.28, 25.52 ± 4.98, 28.89 ± 3.19, and 312.79 ± 40.53 respectively).

Conclusion
The role of inflammatory markers cyclooxygenase-2, Prostaglandin E2, Interleukin 4, and Plasminogen activating inhibitor 1 in Alport syndrome that are causally connected and have a role in the development and course of Alport disease was delineated. This may highlight and speculate an innovative strategy for targeting the creation of safe and efficient anti-inflammatory treatments to inhibit disease progression in Alport syndrome.