bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Anemia is associated with long-term exposure to PM2.5 and its components: a large population-based study in Southwest China
Authors: He Congyuan , Xie Linshen , Gu Lingxi , Yan Hongyu , Feng Shiyu , Zeng Chunmei , Danzhen Wangjiu , Zhang Xuehui , Han Mingming , Li Zhifeng , Duoji Zhuoma , Guo Bing , Zhang Juying , Hong Feng , Zhao Xing 
Published: August 2023

Background: Anemia is linked to PM2.5 (particulate matter with aerodynamic diameters of ⩽2.5 μm) exposure, which can increase the risk of various negative health outcomes. It remains unclear which PM2.5 components are associated with anemia and the respective contribution of each component to this association. Objective: This study aimed at investigating the association between PM2.5 and anemia in the general population and to identify the most critical PM2.5 toxic components in this association. Design: Cross-sectional study. Methods: Our study involved a large cohort of 73,511 individuals aged 30–79 from China’s multi-ethnic population. We employed satellite observations and the chemical transport model (GEOS-Chem)to estimate the long-term exposure to PM2.5 and its components. Anemia was defined, according to WHO guidelines, as Hb levels below 130 g/L for men and below 120 g/L for women. Through logistic regression, we investigated the association between PM2.5 components and anemia. By utilizing weighted quantile sum (WQS) analysis, we identified key components and gained insights into their combined impact on anemia. Overall, our study sheds light on the relationship between PM2.5 exposure, its constituents, and the risk of anemia in a large cohort. Results: PM2.5 and three components, nitrate (NIT), organic matter (OM), and soil particles (SOIL), were associated with anemia. Per-standard deviation increase in the 3-year average concentrations of PM2.5 [odds ratio (OR): 1.14, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01, 1.28], NIT (1.20, 1.06, 1.35), OM (1.17, 1.04, 1.32), and SOIL (1.22, 1.11, 1.33) were associated with higher odds of anemia. In WQS regression analysis, the WQS index was associated with anemia (OR: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.13, 1.47). SOIL has the highest weight among all PM2.5 components. Conclusions: Long-term exposure to PM2.5 and its constituents is associated with anemia. Moreover, SOIL might be the most critical component of the relationship between PM2.5 and anemia. Our research increases the evidence of the association between PM2.5 and anemia in the general population, and targeted emission control measures should be taken into consideration to mitigate the adverse effects of PM2.5-related anemia.
How to promote the healthy development of continuous participation in smart medical and elderly care systems: The dual perspective of perceived value and risk
Authors: Cao Cong , Dai Huangyi , Li Dan 
Published: August 2023

Objective In an environment with an ageing population, elderly care has become a focus of social attention. The combination of smart medical care with elderly care and how to encourage the elderly to participate in the systems and enjoy a higher quality of life have become social priorities. We aimed to analyse the perceived risk and value associations of self-health management-conscious older adults regarding smart medical and elderly care systems (SMECS) and to explore the mechanisms of SMECS affecting them. Methods Using a Likert scale, we conducted a questionnaire-based survey and collected 387 valid responses. This was a cross-sectional study, and various key data were collected relating to the continued participation of older users in SMECS. Partial least squares structural equation modelling was used to explore the data. Results According to the data analysis, price, operability and personalisation all have significant correlations with perceived value and perceived risk. Perceptions of value and risk influence the continuous participation of the elderly, and this has a potentially positive effect on their mental and physical health. Conclusions Under the home-based care model, economic factors and technological accessibility were important factors affecting the elderly's continuous participation in SMECS. A personalised programme for the elderly warrants attention. In addition, the effect of perceived risk from the health-related systems was stronger than their perceived value. This research can help elderly users bridge the digital divide and enjoy smart health and medical care.
Factors affecting condom use among fishers in Elmina fishing community in Ghana
Authors: Kyei-Gyamfi Sylvester 
Published: August 2023

Background: Although it is well known that low condom usage among fishers contributes to high HIV prevalence in fishing communities, little is known about the attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors of fishers when it comes to the use of condoms. Design and methods: This article is a follow-up to a cross-sectional study that used a mix-method design for data collection and analysis to examine the connection between mobility and the risk of contracting HIV among 385 fishers in the Elmina fishing community of Ghana. The Health Belief Model is utilized in the discussions to analyze attitudes and actions toward condom use among the fishers in Elmina. Results: Over 40% of respondents who said they had intercourse in the previous year did not use condoms. The results show that male fishers are more likely than female fishers to use condoms during sexual activity, and younger fishers are more likely to use condoms than older fishers. More condoms were used by educated fishers than by less educated or uneducated fishers. According to the study, female fishers use less condoms than male fishers since they are unable to convince their partners to use them when they refuse to. Additionally, the findings show that slightly more than one in 10 respondents did not use condoms because they believed their sexual partner to be attractive and unlikely to carry any sexual infection. Conclusion: There is a general low perception of HIV susceptibility and severity resulting in the low condom usage among the fisherfolks according to the results. The article urges civil society organizations in the study area to investigate ways to incorporate the provision of free condoms to fishers and at the numerous fishing destination sites along the coast of Elmina. The regular use of condoms in Elmina and the nearby fishing areas should also be emphasised through this outreach or mobile HIV service outlets.
MRI markers of adenomyosis severity associated with worse IVF/ICSI outcomes
Authors: Rees Connie Odette , Kocyigit Sehriban , Nederend Joost , Mischi Massimo , van Vliet Hubertus A. A. M. , Schoot Benedictus Christiaan 
Published: August 2023

Study objective: The aim of this study was to characterise the severity of adenomyosis on MRI in infertile women, and to assess if MRI characteristics of adenomyosis severity are associated with worse IVF/ICSI pregnancy outcomes versus male infertility controls. Materials and methods: This single-centre retrospective study was carried out at Catharina Hospital in Eindhoven, The Netherlands. The MRIs of 124 infertile women undergoing their first, fresh embryo transfer during IVF/ICSI, diagnosed with adenomyosis only ( N = 31), or combined adenomyosis and endometriosis ( N = 93) were assessed. Measurements of MRI adenomyosis features were performed by two independent investigators. IVF/ICSI outcomes (biochemical pregnancy (BP), ongoing pregnancy (OP) and live birth (LB)) of adenomyosis patients were compared to those of 889 male infertility controls. Results: Patients with adenomyosis had significantly worse IVF/ICSI outcomes compared to male infertility controls. When assessing individual MRI parameters, adenomyosis patients with a mean junctional zone (JZ) of >12 mm, a JZ/Myometrium ratio of >40%, presence of myometrial cysts and presence of endometriosis (specifically deep invasive endometriosis(DIE)) showed statistically significantly worse outcomes compared to patients with milder disease. Conclusion: The results of this retrospective study suggest that individual MRI markers for severe adenomyosis (mean JZ > 12 mm, myometrial cysts), especially when combined with (severe) endometriosis, may be associated with fewer pregnancies during IVF/ICSI when compared to male infertility controls. Future prospective studies should investigate the prognostic potential of these markers for prediction of IVF/ICSI success.
Arthroscopic Biological Augmentation With Subacromial Bursa for Bursal-Sided Partial-Thickness Rotator Cuff Tears
Authors: Güler Yasin , Keskin Ahmet , Yerli Mustafa , Imren Yunus , Karslıoglu Bulent , Dedeoglu Suleyman Semih 
Published: August 2023

Background: Augmentation with subacromial bursa has not been fully established in bursal-sided partial-thickness rotator cuff tears (PT-RCTs). Purpose: To compare the results of acromioplasty + arthroscopic debridement versus acromioplasty + augmentation with subacromial bursa for Ellman type 2 PT-RCTs involving 25% to 50% of the tendon surface area. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Included were 40 patients (mean age, 47.8 years) with Ellman type 2 PT-RCTs whose symptoms did not regress despite 3 months of nonoperative treatment. The patients underwent either acromioplasty + debridement (group A; n = 18) or acromioplasty + augmentation (group B; n = 22). Outcome scores (visual analog scale [VAS] pain score, Constant-Murley score [CMS], and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons [ASES] score) were obtained preoperatively and at 6, 12, and 18 months postoperatively. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans performed at 6 months postoperatively were used to determine the integrity and state of healing. Results: There were no significant differences between groups A and B in preoperative VAS, CMS, or ASES scores, and patients in both groups saw significant improvement at each follow-up time point on all 3 outcome scores ( P = .001 for all). Scores on all 3 outcome measures were significantly better in group B than group A at each postoperative time point ( P < .05 for all). Postoperative MRI scans revealed persistent partial tears in 5 of 18 patients in group A compared with 2 of 22 patients in group B ( P < .05). Conversion to full-thickness tear (3/18 patients) was seen only in group A. Conclusion: Patients who underwent biological augmentation of their PT-RCTs had improved outcome scores compared with those treated with acromioplasty and debridement alone.
Enhancing Medication Adherence Among Patients With Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective Disorder: Mobile App Intervention Study
Authors: Al Dameery Khloud , Valsaraj Blessy Prabha , Qutishat Mohammad , Obeidat Arwa , Alkhawaldeh Abdullah , Al Sabei Sulaiman , Al Omari Omar , ALBashtawy Mohammed , Al Qadire Mohammad 
Published: August 2023

Introduction Technology has permeated every aspect of our existence and the mental health sector is not exempt from this. Objectives The aim of this study was to test the impact of using a mobile phone app (MyTherapy pill reminder and medication tracker) on medication adherence in patients with schizophrenia and/or schizoaffective disorder. Methods Time series design was used. Fifty-one participants were recruited from tertiary hospitals in Oman. The Medication Adherence Rating Scale was used for assessing medication adherence. The data related to medication adherence were collected at baseline, 3 months later and 3 months after installing the program on participants’ smartphones. SPSS data set used to analyze the data. Results A repeated-measures ANOVA found no significant change in the level of adherence among patients with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorders at the start and 12 weeks later when the mobile app was installed ( p  =  .371). However, adherence scores improved significantly 12 weeks after installation of mobile app compared with the same group at the baseline and 12 weeks before the installation of mobile app ( p < .001). Conclusion The mobile phone app was effective in improving the adherence level among patients. Installation of the program and teaching patients how to use it to improve their level of adherence is recommended.
How sensitive are matching estimates of active labor market policy effects to typically unobserved confounders?
Authors: Tübbicke Stefan 
Published: August 2023

AbstractUsing a rich and unique combined administrative-survey dataset, this paper explores how sensitive propensity score (PS) matching estimates of Active Labor Market Policies (ALMPs) based on the selection-on-observables assumption are to typically unobserved covariates. Using a sample of German unemployed welfare recipients, the analysis shows that typically unobserved factors such job search behavior, concessions willing to make for a job as well as (mental) health are in fact relevant confounders. However, results also show that matching on the PS using only typically observed covariates reduces imbalance in terms of typically unobserved covariates by about 46 percent in this setting. In line with this finding, the inclusion of typically unobserved covariates yields very similar estimates to estimates based on a standard specification. Hence, a standard matching approach based on rich and high quality administrative data appears to be sufficient to obtain estimates that are rather robust to unobserved confounding.
Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of the Auxin-Response factor (ARF) gene family in Medicago sativa under abiotic stress
Authors: Chen Fenqi , Zhang Jinqing , Ha Xue , Ma Huiling 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is the most widely planted legume forage and one of the most economically valuable crops in the world. The periodic changes in its growth and development and abiotic stress determine its yield and economic benefits. Auxin controls many aspects of alfalfa growth by regulating gene expression, including organ differentiation and stress response. Auxin response factors (ARF) are transcription factors that play an essential role in auxin signal transduction and regulate the expression of auxin-responsive genes. However, the function of ARF transcription factors is unclear in autotetraploid-cultivated alfalfa.

Result
A total of 81 ARF were identified in the alfalfa genome in this study. Gene Ontology (GO) terms and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways were analyzed, identifying that ARF genes are mainly involved in transcriptional regulation and plant hormone signal transduction pathways. Phylogenetic analysis showed that MsARF was divided into four clades: I, II, III, and IV, each containing 52, 13, 7, and 9 genes, respectively. The promoter region of the MsARF gene contained stress-related elements, such as ABRE, TC-rich repeats, MBS, LTR. Proteins encoded by 50 ARF genes were localized in the nucleus without guide peptides, signal peptides, or transmembrane structures, indicating that most MsARF genes are not secreted or transported but only function in the nucleus. Protein structure analysis revealed that the secondary and tertiary structures of the 81 MsARF genes varied. Chromosomal localization analysis showed 81 MsARF genes were unevenly distributed on 25 chromosomes, with the highest distribution on chromosome 5. Furthermore, 14 segmental duplications and two sets of tandem repeats were identified. Expression analysis indicated that the MsARF was differentially expressed in different tissues and under various abiotic stressors. The quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis showed that the expression profiles of 23 MsARF genes were specific to abiotic stresses such as drought, salt, high temperature, and low temperature, as well as tissue-specific and closely related to the duration of stress.

Conclusion
This study identified MsARF in the cultivated alfalfa genome based on the autotetraploid level, which GO, KEGG analysis, phylogenetic analysis, sequence characteristics, and expression pattern analysis further confirmed. Together, these findings provide clues for further investigation of MsARF functional verification and molecular breeding of alfalfa. This study provides a novel approach to systematically identify and characterize ARF transcription factors in autotetraploid cultivated alfalfa, revealing 23 MsARF genes significantly involved in response to various stresses.
Translation, cross-cultural adaption, validity and reliability of a composite physical function scale for adults aged 65 + years in a Danish context
Authors: Knudsen Bettina Mølri , Nørgaard Birgitte , Rasmussen Hanne , Bruun Inge H. 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
To prevent or postpone dependence on help in everyday activities, early identification of adults aged 65 + years at risk of functional decline or with progressing functional decline is essential. The American Composite Physical Function (CPF) scale was developed to detect and prevent this age-conditioned decline. In this study, the aim was to translate and adapt the scale into a Danish version and assess the validity and reliability in Danish adults aged 65 + years.

Methods
A forward–backward translation procedure was used, followed by an expert panel review to finalise the Danish version of the CPF scale. In the subsequent pre-test, three-step cognitive interviews and hypotheses testing were performed to evaluate the validity, and a test–retest was done to assess reliability.

Results
In the pre-test, 47 adults participated in three-step cognitive interviews, and 45 adults answered an online version of the scale. In terms of content validity, the scale was relevant and easy to answer, although many informants skipped the instruction to the questionnaire, which may negatively impact face validity. Construct validity showed a significant difference in CPF scores in adults aged 65 + years by residence and activity level and a decreasing CPF score with increasing age. The reliability test showed an excellent kappa (0.92).

Conclusion
The scale covering daily activities helps to identify adults aged 65 + years with reduced physical functions or at risk of loss of independence. Further research is needed to assess the CPF predictive value for adults aged 65 + years at risk of or with a progressing physical decline.
Comparison of cognitive functional therapy and movement system impairment treatment in chronic low back pain patients: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ahmad Sahar Nazary Soltan , Letafatkar Amir , Brewer Britton W. , Sharifnezhad Ali 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
This study aimed to compare the effects of cognitive functional therapy (CFT) and movement system impairment (MSI)-based treatment on pain intensity, disability, Kinesiophobia, and gait kinetics in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain (CNSLBP).

Methods
In a single-blind randomized clinical trial, we randomly assigned 91 patients with CNSLBP into CFT (n = 45) and MSI-based treatment (n = 46) groups. An 8-week training intervention was given to both groups. The researchers measured the primary outcome, which was pain intensity (Numeric rating scale), and the secondary outcomes, including disability (Oswestry disability index), Kinesiophobia (Tampa Kinesiophobia Scale), and vertical ground reaction force (VGRF) parameters at self-selected and faster speed (Force distributor treadmill). We evaluated patients at baseline, at the end of the 8-week intervention (post-treatment), and six months after the first treatment. We used mixed-model ANOVA to evaluate the effects of the interaction between time (baseline vs. post-treatment vs. six-month follow-up) and group (CFT vs. MSI-based treatment) on each measure.

Results
CFT showed superiority over MSI-based treatment in reducing pain intensity (P < 0.001, Effect size (ES) = 2.41), ODI (P < 0.001, ES = 2.15), and Kinesiophobia (P < 0.001, ES = 2.47) at eight weeks. The CFT also produced greater improvement in VGRF parameters, at both self-selected (FPF[P < 0.001, ES = 3], SPF[P < 0.001, ES = 0.5], MSF[P < 0.001, ES = 0.67], WAR[P < 0.001, ES = 1.53], POR[P < 0.001, ES = 0.8]), and faster speed, FPF(P < 0.001, ES = 1.33, MSF(P < 0.001, ES = 0.57), WAR(P < 0.001, ES = 0.67), POR(P < 0.001, ES = 2.91)] than the MSI, except SPF(P < 0.001, ES = 0.0) at eight weeks.

Conclusion
This study suggests that the CFT is associated with better results in clinical and cognitive characteristics than the MSI-based treatment for CNSLBP, and the researchers maintained the treatment effects at six-month follow-up. Also, This study achieved better improvements in gait kinetics in CFT. CTF seems to be an appropriate and applicable treatment in clinical setting.

Trial registration
The researchers retrospectively registered the trial 10/11/2022, at https://www.umin.ac.jp/ with identifier number (UMIN000047455).
Treatment effects after maxillary expansion using invisalign first system vs. acrylic splint expander in mixed dentition: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Lu Lanxin , Zhang Lingling , Li Chengri , Yi Fang , Lei Lei , Lu Yanqin 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
Invisalign First System (First) is a new type of orthodontic appliance for maxillary arch expansion in mixed dentition children. Till now, few studies have evaluated the expansion effects of First versus other appliances. What’s more, most studies of arch expansion did not include a natural group to rule out growth effects. This prospective cohort study aimed to evaluate the dental and dentoalveolar effects using First or acrylic splint rapid maxillary expander (RME) in adolescents excluding growth factors.

Materials and methods
After screening by strict inclusion criteria and propensity score matching (PSM), fifty-one patients were included: First group (n = 17), RME group (n = 17), and natural growth (NG) group (n = 17). Nine indicators including dental arch width, dentoalveolar arch width, and inclination of the molars were measured on digital dental casts at baseline (T0) and six-month follow-up (T1). Paired t-tests were used for intra-group results, and two-sample independent t-tests were used for inter-group comparisons.

Results
There was no significant increase in all indicators within six months in the NG group (p > 0.05). In the First group and RME group, all width indicators were significantly increased after treatment (p < 0.05). The RME group exhibited greater expansion than the First group in intercanine width, first interpremolar width, second interdeciduous molar width, first intermolar width, arch perimeter, intercanine dentoalveolar width, intermolar dentoalveolar width, and inclination of the molars (p < 0.05). Whereas, there was no significant difference in arch depth between the two treated groups.

Conclusions
Both First and RME can expand the maxillary arch in mixed dentition. In case of mild to moderate maxillary transverse deficiency (MTD), Invisalign First System could be a reasonable option. RME shows significant better efficiency of dental arch expansion than First, recommended for patients with severe MTD.

Trial registration
This prospective study was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (01/02/2022, registration number: ChiCTR2200056220). The trial was approved by the Ethical Committee of the Hunan Xiangya Stomatological Hospital Central South University (20,200,088), and informed consent was obtained from all subjects and their legal guardian(s).