bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Language dysfunction correlates with cognitive impairments in older adults without dementia mediated by amyloid pathology
Authors: Xiang Chunchen , Ai Weiping , Zhang Yumei ,   Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: May 2023

BackgroundPrevious studies have explored the application of non-invasive biomarkers of language dysfunction for the early detection of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, language dysfunction over time may be quite heterogeneous within different diagnostic groups.MethodPatient demographics and clinical data were retrieved from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) database for the participants without dementia who had measures of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers and language dysfunction. We analyzed the effect of longitudinal neuropathological and clinical correlates in the pathological process of semantic fluency and confrontation naming. The mediation effects of AD biomarkers were also explored by the mediation analysis.ResultThere were 272 subjects without dementia included in this analysis. Higher rates of decline in semantic fluency and confrontation naming were associated with a higher risk of progression to MCI or AD, and a greater decline in cognitive abilities. Moreover, the rate of change in semantic fluency was significantly associated with Aβ deposition, while confrontation naming was significantly associated with both amyloidosis and tau burden. Mediation analyses revealed that both confrontation naming and semantic fluency were partially mediated by the Aβ aggregation.ConclusionIn conclusion, the changes in language dysfunction may partly stem from the Aβ deposition, while confrontation naming can also partly originate from the increase in tau burden. Therefore, this study sheds light on how language dysfunction is partly constitutive of mild cognitive impairment and dementia and therefore is an important clinical predictor.
Associations of lesion location, structural disconnection, and functional diaschisis with depressive symptoms post stroke
Authors: Klingbeil Julian , Brandt Max-Lennart , Stockert Anika , Baum Petra , Hoffmann Karl-Titus , Saur Dorothee , Wawrzyniak Max 
Published: May 2023

IntroductionPost-stroke depressive symptoms (PSDS) are common and relevant for patient outcome, but their complex pathophysiology is ill understood. It likely involves social, psychological and biological factors. Lesion location is a readily available information in stroke patients, but it is unclear if the neurobiological substrates of PSDS are spatially localized. Building on previous analyses, we sought to determine if PSDS are associated with specific lesion locations, structural disconnection and/or localized functional diaschisis.MethodsIn a prospective observational study, we examined 270 patients with first-ever stroke with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) around 6 months post-stroke. Based on individual lesion locations and the depression subscale of the HADS we performed support vector regression lesion-symptom mapping, structural-disconnection-symptom mapping and functional lesion network-symptom-mapping, in a reanalysis of this previously published cohort to infer structure–function relationships.ResultsWe found that depressive symptoms were associated with (i) lesions in the right insula, right putamen, inferior frontal gyrus and right amygdala and (ii) structural disconnection in the right temporal lobe. In contrast, we found no association with localized functional diaschisis. In addition, we were unable to confirm a previously described association between depressive symptom load and a network damage score derived from functional disconnection maps.DiscussionBased on our results, and other recent lesion studies, we see growing evidence for a prominent role of right frontostriatal brain circuits in PSDS.
Clinical and molecular features of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and SOD1 mutations: a monocentric study
Authors: Gagliardi Delia , Ripellino Paolo , Meneri Megi , Del Bo Roberto , Antognozzi Sara , Comi Giacomo Pietro , Gobbi Claudio , Ratti Antonia , Ticozzi Nicola , Silani Vincenzo , Ronchi Dario , Corti Stefania 
Published: May 2023

IntroductionSOD1 was the first gene associated with both familial and sporadic forms of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and is the second most mutated gene in Caucasian ALS patients. Given their high clinical and molecular heterogeneity, a detailed characterization of SOD1-ALS patients could improve knowledge about the natural history of this disease. Here, the authors aimed to provide a clinical and molecular description of a monocentric cohort of SOD1-ALS patients.MethodsAmyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients referring to the neurology unit of our center between 2008 and 2021 were clinically assessed and underwent molecular testing for SOD1. Segregation studies in available family members and in silico analysis were performed to sustain the pathogenicity of the identified SOD1 variants.ResultsAmong the 576 patients in our cohort, we identified 19 individuals harboring a mutation in SOD1 (3.3%), including 15 (78.9%) with a familial and four (21.1%) with a sporadic form. The spinal onset of the disease was observed in all patients, and survival was extremely variable, ranging from 8 months to over 30 years. Twelve different SOD1 missense variants were identified in our cohort, including one novel mutation (p.Pro67Leu).DiscussionIn the present series, we provided the first description of an Italian monocentric cohort of SOD1-ALS patients, and we expanded the repertoire of SOD1 mutations. Our cohort presents several remarkable features, including variable expressivity in the same family, atypical presentation (ataxia, cognitive impairment, and other extra-motor symptoms), and different modes of inheritance of a given mutation in the same family. Given the recent authorization of SOD1-directed antisense oligonucleotide for use in SOD1-ALS patients, we recommend prompt screening for SOD1 mutations in novel ALS patients with familiar or sporadic presentations.
Functional ultrasound detects frequency-specific acute and delayed S-ketamine effects in the healthy mouse brain
Authors: Ionescu Tudor M. , Grohs-Metz Gillian , Hengerer Bastian 
Published: May 2023

IntroductionS-ketamine has received great interest due to both its antidepressant effects and its potential to induce psychosis when administered subchronically. However, no studies have investigated both its acute and delayed effects using in vivo small-animal imaging. Recently, functional ultrasound (fUS) has emerged as a powerful alternative to functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), outperforming it in sensitivity and in spatiotemporal resolution. In this study, we employed fUS to thoroughly characterize acute and delayed S-ketamine effects on functional connectivity (FC) within the same cohort at slow frequency bands ranging from 0.01 to 1.25 Hz, previously reported to exhibit FC.MethodsWe acquired fUS in a total of 16 healthy C57/Bl6 mice split in two cohorts (n = 8 received saline, n = 8 S-ketamine). One day after the first scans, performed at rest, the mice received the first dose of S-ketamine during the second measurement, followed by four further doses administered every 2 days. First, we assessed FC reproducibility and reliability at baseline in six frequency bands. Then, we investigated the acute and delayed effects at day 1 after the first dose and at day 9, 1 day after the last dose, for all bands, resulting in a total of four fUS measurements for every mouse.ResultsWe found reproducible (r &gt; 0.9) and reliable (r &gt; 0.9) group-average readouts in all frequency bands, only the 0.01–0.27 Hz band performing slightly worse. Acutely, S-ketamine induced strong FC increases in five of the six bands, peaking in the 0.073–0.2 Hz band. These increases comprised both cortical and subcortical brain areas, yet were of a transient nature, FC almost returning to baseline levels towards the end of the scan. Intriguingly, we observed robust corticostriatal FC decreases in the fastest band acquired (0.75 Hz–1.25  Hz). These changes persisted to a weaker extent after 1 day and at this timepoint they were accompanied by decreases in the other five bands as well. After 9 days, the decreases in the 0.75–1.25 Hz band were maintained, however no changes between cohorts could be detected in any other bands.DiscussionIn summary, the study reports that acute and delayed ketamine effects in mice are not only dissimilar but have different directionalities in most frequency bands. The complementary readouts of the employed frequency bands recommend the use of fUS for frequency-specific investigation of pharmacological effects on FC.
Choosing an effective food classification system for promoting healthy diets in Thailand: a comparative evaluation of three nutrient profiling-based food classification systems (government, WHO, and Healthier Choice Logo) and a food-processing-based food classification system (NOVA)
Authors: Phulkerd Sirinya , Dickie Sarah , Thongcharoenchupong Natjera , Thapsuwan Sasinee , Machado Priscila , Woods Julie , Mo-Suwan Ladda , Prasertsom Piyada , Ungchusak Chantana , Khitdee Chiraporn , Lawrence Mark 
Published: May 2023

IntroductionThis study aimed to assess the nutritional quality of food and beverage products in Thailand by comparing four different food classification systems: the nutrient profiling-based food classification systems by the Department of Health (DOH), the WHO South-East Asia Region (WHO SEA), the Healthier Choice Logo (HCL), and the food-processing-based food classification system, NOVA.MethodsThis study used secondary data from the Mintel Global New Products Database (N = 17,414). Food subgroups were classified differently based on these four systems. The DOH classified food products into three groups: Group A—healthy pass or meeting standard, Group B—not meeting the standard, and Group C—far below standard. The WHO SEA classified food products into two groups: marketing prohibited products and marketing permitted products. The HCL classified food products into two groups: eligible products for the logo; and ineligible products for the logo. The NOVA classified food products into four groups: unprocessed or minimally processed foods (MP), processed culinary ingredients (PCI), processed foods (P), and ultra-processed foods (UPF). Descriptive statistics (percentage and frequency) were used for analysis. Agreement analysis was conducted using Cohen’s kappa statistic between each pair of food classification systems.ResultsOf the total sample that could be classified by any of the four classification systems (n = 10,486), the DOH, the WHO SEA and the HCL systems classified products as healthy (Group A, marketing permitted or eligible for HCL logo) at 10.4, 11.1, and 10.9%, respectively. Only 5.6% were classified as minimally processed foods using NOVA and 83.1% were ultra-processed foods (UPFs). Over 50% of products classified as healthy by the nutrient profiling systems were classified as UPF according to the NOVA system. Products that were eligible for the HCL had the highest proportion of UPF products (84.4%), followed by the Group A products (69.2%) and the WHO marketing-permitted products (65.0%).ConclusionA hybrid food classification approach taking both nutrients and food processing into account is needed to comprehensively assess the nutritional quality of food and beverage products in Thailand.
Oncoplastic surgery for Paget’s disease of the breast
Authors: Pelorca Rafael José Fábio , de Oliveira-Junior Idam , da Costa Vieira René Aloisio 
Published: May 2023

IntroductionPaget’s disease of the breast (PDB) is a rare nipple entity associated with multifocality. Due to its location, resection of the entire nipple-areolar complex is necessary. Historically central quadrantectomy and mastectomy have the surgical treatments of choice. The feasibility of oncoplastic breast surgery (OBS) for PDB is unknown.MethodsThis was a retrospective study performed in a Brazilian oncological hospital. We evaluated the factors related to the performance of OBS in PDB. In addition, the impact of OBS on local recurrence and survival was analysed. Comparisons were made between groups using the chi-square test, Mann−Whitney U test, and Kaplan–Meier method. To assess the impact factor of the variables on the performance of OBS, logistic regression was performed.ResultsEighty-five patients were evaluated. OBS was performed in 69.4% (n=59), and of these, 16 (27.2%) were symmetrized with contralateral surgery. Mastectomy without reconstruction was performed in 28.3% of the patients. The primary procedure performed was mastectomy with reconstruction (n=38; 44.7%), and the preferential technique for immediate reconstruction was skin-sparing mastectomy with prosthesis; for late reconstruction, the preferred technique was using the latissimus dorsi. Breast conserving-surgery was performed in 27.0% (n=23), primarily using the plug-flap technique (OBS). Age was associated with the use of OBS; as patients aged 40-49 exhibited a higher rate of OBS (p = 0.002; odds ratio 3.22). OBS did not influence local recurrence (p=1.000), overall survival (p=0.185), or cancer-specific survival (p=0.418).ConclusionOBS improves options related to surgical treatment in PDB without affecting local recurrence or survival rates.
Comparative efficacy of remotely delivered mindfulness-based eating awareness training versus behavioral-weight loss counseling during COVID-19
Authors: Ugarte Pérez Carla , Cruzat-Mandich Claudia , Quiñones Bergeret Álvaro , Díaz-Tendero Dafne , Gallegos Marcela , Gil Aurora A. , Cepeda-Benito Antonio 
Published: May 2023

IntroductionDysregulated eating (emotional eating, cue-elicited eating, and dietary restraint and restriction) has been linked to being overweight or obese. The present investigation used a random controlled trial (RCT) to test the differential efficacy of remotely delivered Mindfulness-Based Eating Awareness Training (MB-EAT) and Behavioral Weight Loss (BWL) counseling.MethodsThe sample was recruited through advertisements that offered help to people “with problems controlling their eating” or “interested in improving their relationship with food” (n = 135).ResultsRetention was low in both groups (42%), but not dissimilar to retention rates reported in related clinical trials delivered “in person.” Among the participants who completed treatment, we found no between-group differences in any of the treatment outcomes, but participants in both groups experienced significant increases in eating-related mindfulness [Mindful Eating Questionnaire (MEQ) and awareness [Multidimensional Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness (MAIA), and significant decreases in unhealthy eating patterns [Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire (DEBQ); Binge Eating Scale (BES), and weight over the course of treatment. Participants in both groups also experienced increases in self-reported depression and anxiety symptoms [Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS)], although these increases likely reflected normative changes observed in the population at large during COVID-19.DiscussionOverall, the results suggest that dysregulated eating and weight loss intervention delivered remotely via teleconference can be effective.
Assessment of validity and comparison of two Spanish versions of the Geriatric Depression Scale
Authors: Bugallo-Carrera Cesar , Dosil-Díaz Carlos , Pereiro Arturo X. , Anido-Rifón Luís , Pacheco-Lorenzo Moisés , Fernández-Iglesias Manuel J. , Gandoy-Crego Manuel 
Published: May 2023

IntroductionThe Geriatric Depression Scale is an instrument used to identify depression in people of an older age. The original English version of this scale has been translated into Spanish (GDS-VE); two shorter versions of 5- (GDS-5) and 15-items (GDS-15) have been developed.Aim of the studyTo assess the validity and compare the 5- and 15-item Spanish versions of the GDS among the Spanish population.Materials and methods573 Galicia residents aged &gt;50 years participated in this study. The following instruments were applied: the 19-item Control, Autonomy, Self-Realization and Pleasure scale, the Subjective Memory Complaints Questionnaire, the Mini-Mental State Examination test, the GDS-5, and the GDS-15.ResultsWe found differences in total score between GDS-5 and GDS-15 regarding the variable sex. Internal reliability for GDS-5 and GDS-15 was 0.495 and 0.715, respectively. Sensitivity and specificity for GDS-5 – with a cut-off value of 1 – was 0.517 and 0.650, respectively; for GDS-15 – with a cut-off value of 3 points – sensitivity was 0.755 and specificity 0.668. GDS-5 has a ROC curve of 0.617 and GDS-15 of 0.764.ConclusionGDS-15, and to a greater extent GDS-5, should be revised or even reformulated to improve their diagnostic usefulness by choosing higher discriminative ability items or even include new items with greater sensitivity that consider currently prevailing psychosocial factors.
Effects of reasoning demands triggered by genre on Chinese EFL learners' writing performance
Authors: Peng Cheng , Bao Zhen 
Published: May 2023

IntroductionGenres, having distinct communicative functions, elicit different levels of reasoning demands in writing tasks. The current study investigated the influence of cognitive complexity triggered by a seldom studied pair of genres (expository writing vs. argumentative writing) on Chinese advanced EFL learners' writing performance.MethodA total of 76 L2 learners participated in two writing tasks: one simpler expository writing task involving fewer reasoning demands and the other more complex argumentative writing task eliciting more reasoning demands. Multiple measure indices were adopted to comprehensively reflect the differences in production dimensions between the two writing tasks, such as lexical complexity, syntactic complexity, accuracy, fluency, and cohesion.Results and discussionThe results showed that cognitive complexity significantly improved lexical complexity, clausal complexity, and cohesion, which generally supported the Cognition Hypothesis. However, phrasal structures and clausal structures within the construct of syntactic complexity displayed a trade-off effect, partially corroborating the Trade-off Hypothesis. Accuracy and fluency were uninfluenced, verifying neither of these hypotheses. Implications for sequencing and designing L2 writing tasks were provided for relevant stakeholders.
Positive Attitude Upper Middle School social and emotional learning program: influences of implementation quality on program outcome
Authors: Coelho Vítor Alexandre , Marchante Marta , Brás Patrícia 
Published: May 2023

IntroductionThere is an increased call for studies analyzing how implementation quality influences Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) program effectiveness.MethodsThe current dissemination study analyzed the effectiveness of the Positive Attitude Upper Middle School SEL program on a Portuguese nationwide sample composed of 813 middle school students (7th and 8th grade; 51.7% boys; Mage = 12.41, S.D. = 1.06), from 36 classrooms (Mclassroom = 22.58; S.D. = 2.86), distributed between the control group (179 students), and three intervention groups (643 students) that reflected low, middle, and high implementer experience (respectively, Gulbenkian Academies of Knowledge, Positive Attitude Cadaval and Positive Attitude Torres Vedras). Dosage and fidelity (as implementation quality dimensions), gender, and classroom size (as individual and classroom-level variables) were also analyzed. Self-report questionnaires were administered pre- and post-intervention and at a 6-month follow-up.ResultsMultilevel models were employed, and results showed that participating in the PAUMS SEL program led to more positive trajectories in self-control, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making when compared with control groups. Regarding implementation quality, only the implementer’s experience impacted the effectiveness of the PAUMS SEL program; students in the Gulbenkian Academies of Knowledge intervention group displayed a less positive trajectory in self-control than students in the Positive Attitude Torres Vedras intervention group.DiscussionAltogether, results showed that the PAUMS SEL program is ready for dissemination in Portugal, although a higher level of implementer experience is needed to achieve the best effectiveness, and they support the importance of analyzing implementer experience in SEL programs’ effectiveness studies.
Effects of a Portuguese social–emotional learning program on the competencies of elementary school students
Authors: Coelho Vera , Peixoto Carla , Azevedo Helena , Machado Francisco , Soares Mónica , Espain Andreia 
Published: May 2023

IntroductionIt is widely recognized that socio-emotional learning (SEL) interventions can contribute to supporting students’ positive development of socio-emotional skills (SES) and positive relationships with peers and teachers. Thus, interest in promoting students’ SES through universal evidence-based programs is spreading around the world, including in Portuguese schools.MethodsThis quasi-experimental study examines the efficacy of a SEL classroom-based program, infused into the curriculum, on students’ communication, self-regulation, and classroom peer relationships. Participants included 208 third- to fourth-grade students from three Portuguese public elementary schools: 143 in the intervention group (54.5% boys; Mage = 8.72; SD = 0.61); 65 in the comparison group (52.3% boys; Mage = 8.66; SD = 0.59). Measures included: Study on Social and Emotional Skills, parent, child, and teacher versions; and Classroom Peer Context Questionnaire, completed by students. The study followed a pre- and post-test design, with a 16-week intervention.ResultsFor the overall participants, results show a positive effect of the program on students’ assertiveness (family report), peer conflict and peer cooperation. Effects were analyzed separately by school grade. A statistically significant positive effect of the program on third-grade students’ assertiveness and sociability was found. For fourth-grade students, a positive effect was found on - emotional control). classroom conflicts, isolation, cooperation and cohesion behaviors.DiscussionThese positive effects support the expansion of universal interventions when aiming at strengthening SEL in Portuguese school settings, underlining the relevance of embedding SEL into the curricula and daily practices at schools.