bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Social and community structure of striped dolphins in a semienclosed Mediterranean embayment
Authors: Bonizzoni Silvia , Santostasi Nina Luisa , Eddy Lavinia , Riley Melissa Ann , Ferreira da Silveira Mariana , Würsig Bernd , Bearzi Giovanni 
Published: July 2023

AbstractDescriptions of social structure of a species or population help to understand the processes that shaped its social system, and such knowledge can be valuable in terms of conservation planning. While striped dolphins Stenella coeruleoalba are among the most abundant cetacean species worldwide, and the most abundant in the Mediterranean Sea, their social and community structure is poorly known. This study investigates the association patterns of a population inhabiting the Gulf of Corinth, Greece. A total of 501 individuals were photo‐identified across 7 years (2011–2017). Groups were significantly larger (M = 44.7, SD = 46.3) than those studied to date in other Mediterranean areas. Association analyses in SOCPROG relied on the time and position metadata of dorsal fin photographs. Results indicated a single community characterized by nonrandom associations and a loose clustering of individuals (best division into clusters corresponded to an association index of 0.02). The high degree of social cohesion may result in part from geographic isolation within a semienclosed basin. This information can inform management action to protect a demographically isolated population classified as Endangered in the IUCN Red List, within a European Union Site of Community Importance regarded as an Important Marine Mammal Area (IMMA).
Association between the COVID‐19 pandemic, caregiving burden, and quality of life of caregivers of people with dementia: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Choi Min‐Jung , Seo Hyun‐Ju , Choo IL Han , Kim Jeong Lan , Park Jeong‐Min 
Published: July 2023

AbstractThis study aimed to examine the association of COVID‐19‐related stress, anxiety, access to public healthcare services, and the presence of secondary caregivers (CGs) on the burden of caregiving and health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) for CGs of people with dementia (PwD). A cross‐sectional survey with 218 family CGs for PwD was completed in various settings between August and September 2021. The CGs had moderate and severe stress (42.7%) and reported having difficulty accessing public healthcare services (51.8%) and receiving help from secondary CGs (42.7%). In the multivariable linear regression, the stress and anxiety levels related to COVID‐19 had a positive association with caregiver burden (β = 4.25, p < 0.001, and β = 5.73, p = 0.032, respectively), with no statistically significant association to HRQoL. Unexpectedly, accessing public healthcare services and supporting the secondary CGs were unrelated to the caregiving burden and HRQoL. Therefore, interventions aiming to alleviate family CGs' stress and anxiety levels should be provided to ensure PwD live in their homes in terms of continuity of public health service delivery.
Effect of functional appliances on sleep‐disordered breathing in Class II division 1 malocclusion children: Randomized controlled trial
Authors: Radwan E. S. , Maher A. , Montasser M. A. 
Published: July 2023

AbstractObjectivesA randomized controlled trial was undertaken to investigate the orthopaedic effect of functional appliances on the pharyngeal airway space and nocturnal breathing of children with skeletal class II due to mandibular retrusion.Materials and MethodsForty patients were randomized into a 1:1 ratio study (Twin block) group and a control (fixed appliance) group. Each group included equal numbers of boys and girls. Diagnosis with sleep‐disordered breathing was not an inclusion criterion. The duration of the trial was 12 months (T0 ‐ T12). Eligibility criteria included skeletal Class II division 1 malocclusion with mandibular retrognathism, SNA ≥82, SNB ≤78, ANB ≥4, overjet ≥6 mm, and patients in circumpubertal stage CVM2 and CVM3. The main outcomes were pharyngeal airway volume, oxygen desaturation index (ODI), and maximum expiratory pressure (MEP), while the secondary outcomes were skeletal and dental changes of the maxilla and mandible. Randomization was accomplished with random blocks of 20 patients with allocation concealed in sequentially numbered, opaque, and sealed envelopes. Blinding was only applicable for data analysis of radiographic measurements and data extracted from the pulse oximeter.ResultsThe mean age of the patients was 10 ± 1.5 and 10 ± 1.2 at (T0) for the Twin Block and the control groups, respectively. The changes in the oropharyngeal (2.66 cc and 0.056; P = .03) and nasopharyngeal (1.3 cc and 0.84; P = .053) airway volumes for the Twin block and control groups, respectively, were significantly different for the oropharynx. There was a significant decrease in ODI by [median −3.55 (−5.05 to 0.50); P ≤ .001] and a significant increase [median 45 (0.0–110); P ≤ .001] in MEP for the Twin block group. A significant inverse correlation (r = −.589; P = .006) could be found between the total volume of the oropharynx and ODI. No serious harm was observed.ConclusionsThe Twin block group showed significant change in oropharyngeal airway volume and improvement of nocturnal breathing.RegistrationThis trial was registered at https://www.clinicaltrials.gov, registration number NCT04255511.
Effect of acupuncture on regulating IL‐17, TNF‐ɑ and AQPs in Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Liu Ruihua , Zhang Yi , Li Kesong , Xu Haodong , Cheng Zengyu , Pang Fengtao , Wu Hengbo , Guo Zilin , He Jiale , Tang Xiaopo , Zhou Xinyao , Jiang Quan 
Published: July 2023

AbstractAimThe aim of the study was to observe the effect of acupuncture on regulating interleukin (IL)‐17, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐ɑ, and aquaporins (AQPs) in Sjögren's syndrome (SS) on patients and on non‐obese diabetic (NOD) models.MethodsLevels of anti‐AQP 1, 5, 8, and 9 antibodies, IL‐17, and TNF‐ɑ in the serum of SS patients were compared prior and following 20 acupuncture treatment visits during 8 weeks. While in murine model, five groups were divided to receive interventions for 4 weeks, including control, model, acupuncture, isoflurane, and hydroxychloroquine. The submaxillofacial gland index, histology, immunohistochemistry of AQP1, 5, salivary flow, together with IL‐17, and TNF‐ɑ expression in peripheral blood were compared among the groups.ResultsAcupuncture reduced IL‐17, TNF‐ɑ, and immunoglobin A levels, and numeric analog scale of dryness in 14 patients with SS (p < 0.05). The salivary flow was increased, and the water intake decreased in NOD mice receiving acupuncture treatments. IL‐17 and TNF‐ɑ levels in peripheral serum were down‐regulated (p < 0.05) and AQP1, 5 expression in the submandibular glands up‐regulated in mice.ConclusionThe effect on relieving xerostomia with acupuncture may be achieved by up‐regulating the expression of AQP1. AQP5, down‐regulating levels of IL‐17 and TNF‐ɑ, and a decrease in inflammation of glands.
Exploring informal caregivers' well‐being during COVID‐19 through online discussion forums
Authors: Lindroos Anni , Douglas‐Smith Nicola 
Published: July 2023

AbstractBackgroundCOVID‐19 has increased pressures on caregivers, disruptions to health services and increased health concerns during COVID‐19. Reports have been made on informal carers’ increased workload and limited support services during the pandemic.AimsThis study aimed to explore how informal caregivers experienced their well‐being during COVID‐19 through online discussion forums.Materials and MethodsA reflexive thematic analysis characterised by theoretical flexibility, organic inductive coding processes and theme development was conducted on online discussion forums. The method highlighted theme reviewing which was done twice to encourage data reflection. The project was conducted on a novel topic which was a new area of research interest. Semantic coding where participants’ words were used directly in the interpretation and construction of themes was used.ResultsIn the theme ‘Locked in or locked away’ caregivers worried about continuing care at home, due to limited freedom and worries of hiring help during a pandemic. Some expressed worries about visitation rights and grief of not being present with a loved one if they would reside in a care home. The theme ‘Nothing left to give’ suggested that COVID‐19 exasperated caregivers’ loneliness, social isolation and increased responsibilities and challenges with other roles. Bitterness, resentment and anger were felt towards lack of social support and workload. Theme ‘Celebrating a virtual way of life’ described how caregivers used online forums when other support services were disrupted.DiscussionWe discuss the role of informal caregiver that was described as all‐encompassing during COVID‐19. We highlight the importance of advanced planning for care home transitions and the use of online forums as a form of support. We suggest further exploration into informal caregivers’ role balancing.ConclusionCOVID‐19 seemed to affect informal caregivers negatively, but they reframed their situations and sought online support. With COVID‐19‐related restrictions and increased workload, COVID‐19 added an all‐or‐nothing aspect to care home transition decisions.
A tale of two taxes: State‐dependency of tax policy
Authors: Arin Kerim Peren , Gahramanov Emin , Omay Tolga , Tang Xueli , Ulubasoglu Mehmet A. 
Published: July 2023

AbstractIn this paper, we build a simple endogenous growth model with labour and corporate taxes to investigate the asymmetric effects of tax policy over the growth trajectory. We employ a newly developed panel smooth transition model to empirically analyse a sample of 19 advanced economies over the 1961–2017 period. We find that both the asymmetric effects and the tax measures used are essential. We also find that the effects of corporate and personal taxes on long‐run growth are non‐linear, while the detrimental effects of personal taxes are empirically larger compared to those of corporate taxes once non‐linearities are controlled for.
Turnip crinkle virus‐encoded suppressor of RNA silencing suppresses mRNA decay by interacting with ArabidopsisXRN4
Authors: Wu Kunxin , Fu Yan , Ren Yanli , Liu Linyu , Zhang Xiuchun , Ruan Mengbin 
Published: July 2023

SUMMARYPlant cells employ intricate defense mechanisms, including mRNA decay pathways, to counter viral infections. Among the RNA quality control (RQC) mechanisms, nonsense‐mediated decay (NMD), no‐go decay (NGD), and nonstop decay (NSD) pathways play critical roles in recognizing and cleaving aberrant mRNA molecules. Turnip crinkle virus (TCV) is a plant virus that triggers mRNA decay pathways, but it has also evolved strategies to evade this antiviral defense. In this study, we investigated the activation of mRNA decay during TCV infection and its impact on TCV RNA accumulation. We found that TCV infection induced the upregulation of essential mRNA decay factors, indicating their involvement in antiviral defense and the capsid protein (CP) of TCV, a well‐characterized viral suppressor of RNA silencing (VSR), also compromised the mRNA decay‐based antiviral defense by targeting AtXRN4. This interference with mRNA decay was supported by the observation that TCV CP stabilized a reporter transcript with a long 3′ untranslated region (UTR). Moreover, TCV CP suppressed the decay of known NMD target transcripts, further emphasizing its ability to modulate host RNA control mechanisms. Importantly, TCV CP physically interacted with AtXRN4, providing insight into the mechanism of viral interference with mRNA decay. Overall, our findings reveal an alternative strategy employed by TCV, wherein the viral coat protein suppresses the mRNA decay pathway to facilitate viral infection.
Integrated evolutionary pattern analyses reveal multiple origins of steroidal saponins in plants
Authors: Li Yi , Li Zihao , Zhang Furui , Li Song , Gu Yongbing , Tian Weijun , Tian Weirong , Wang Jianbo , Wen Jun , Li Jiaru 
Published: July 2023

SUMMARYSteroidal saponins are a class of specialized metabolites essential for plant's response to biotic and abiotic stresses. They are also important raw materials for the industrial production of steroid drugs. Steroidal saponins are present in some monocots, such as Dioscorea and Paris, but their distribution, origin, and evolution in plants remain poorly understood. By reconstructing the evolutionary history of the steroidal saponin‐associated module (SSAM) in plants, we reveal that the steroidal saponin pathway has its origin in Asparagus and Dioscorea. Through evaluating the distribution and evolutionary pattern of steroidal saponins in angiosperms, we further show that steroidal saponins originated multiple times in angiosperms, and exist in early diverged lineages of certain monocot lineages including Asparagales, Dioscoreales, and Liliales. In these lineages, steroidal saponins are synthesized through the high copy and/or high expression mechanisms of key genes in SSAM. Together with shifts in gene evolutionary rates and amino acid usage, these molecular mechanisms shape the current distribution and diversity of steroidal saponins in plants. Consequently, our results provide new insights into the distribution, diversity and evolutionary history of steroidal saponins in plants, and enhance our understanding of plants' resistance to abiotic and biotic stresses. Additionally, fundamental understanding of the steroidal saponin biosynthesis will facilitate their industrial production and pharmacological applications.
Handheld chromatic pupillometry can reliably detect functional glaucomatous damage in eyes with high myopia
Authors: Finkelstein Maxwell Toan , Nongpiur Monisha Esther , Husain Rahat , Perera Shamira , Baskaran Mani , Wong Tina T , Aung Tin , Milea Dan , Najjar Raymond P 
Published: July 2023

Background/aimsTo assess pupillary light responses (PLRs) in eyes with high myopia (HM) and evaluate the ability of handheld chromatic pupillometry (HCP) to identify glaucomatous functional loss in eyes with HM.MethodsThis prospective, cross-sectional study included 28 emmetropes (EM), 24 high myopes without glaucoma (HM) and 17 high myopes with confirmed glaucoma (HMG), recruited at the Singapore National Eye Center. Monocular PLRs were evaluated using a custom-built handheld pupillometer that recorded changes in horizontal pupil radius in response to 9 s of exponentially increasing blue (469.1 nm) and red (640.1 nm) lights. Fifteen pupillometric features were compared between groups. A logistic regression model (LRM) was used to distinguish HMG eyes from non-glaucomatous eyes (EM and HM).ResultsAll pupillometric features were similar between EM and HM groups. Phasic constriction to blue (p<0.001) and red (p=0.006) lights, and maximum constriction to blue light (p<0.001) were reduced in HMG compared with EM and HM. Pupillometric features of melanopsin function (postillumination pupillary response, PIPR area under the curve (AUC) 0–12 s (p<0.001) and PIPR 6 s (p=0.01) to blue light) were reduced in HMG. Using only three pupillometric features, the LRM could classify glaucomatous from non-glaucomatous eyes with an AUC of 0.89 (95% CI 0.77 to 1.00), sensitivity 94.1% (95% CI 82.4% to 100.0%) and specificity 78.8% (95% CI 67.3% to 90.4%).ConclusionPLRs to ramping-up light stimuli are unaltered in highly myopic eyes without other diagnosed ocular conditions. Conversely, HCP can distinguish glaucomatous functional loss in eyes with HM and can be a useful tool to detect/confirm the presence of glaucoma in patients with HM.
Self-Help Plus for refugees and asylum seekers: an individual participant data meta-analysis
Authors: Karyotaki Eirini , Sijbrandij Marit , Purgato Marianna , Acarturk Ceren , Lakin Daniel , Bailey Della , Peckham Emily , Uygun Ersin , Tedeschi Federico , Wancata Johannes , Augustinavicius Jura , Carswell Kenneth , Välimäki Maritta , van Ommeren Mark , Koesters Markus , Popa Mariana , Leku Marx Ronald , Anttila Minna , Churchill Rachel , White Ross G , Al-Hashimi Sarah , Lantta Tella , Au Teresa , Klein Thomas , Tol Wietse A , Cuijpers Pim , Barbui Corrado 
Published: July 2023

QuestionRefugees and asylum seekers are at high risk of mental disorders due to various stressors before, during and after forceful displacement. The WHO Self-Help Plus (SH+) intervention was developed to manage psychological distress and a broad range of mental health symptoms in vulnerable populations. This study aimed to examine the effects and moderators of SH+ compared with Enhanced Care as Usual (ECAU) in reducing depressive symptoms among refugees and asylum seekers.Study selection and analysisThree randomised trials were identified with 1795 individual participant data (IPD). We performed an IPD meta-analysis to estimate the effects of SH+, primarily on depressive symptoms and second on post-traumatic stress, well-being, self-identified problems and functioning. Effects were also estimated at 5–6 months postrandomisation (midterm).FindingsThere was no evidence of a difference between SH+ and ECAU+ in reducing depressive symptoms at postintervention. However, SH+ had significantly larger effects among participants who were not employed (β=1.60, 95% CI 0.20 to 3.00) and had lower mental well-being levels (β=0.02, 95% CI 0.001 to 0.05). At midterm, SH+ was significantly more effective than ECAU in improving depressive symptoms (β=−1.13, 95% CI −1.99 to −0.26), self-identified problems (β=−1.56, 95% CI −2.54 to −0.59) and well-being (β=6.22, 95% CI 1.60 to 10.90).ConclusionsAlthough SH+ did not differ significantly from ECAU in reducing symptoms of depression at postintervention, it did present benefits for particularly vulnerable participants (ie, unemployed and with lower mental well-being levels), and benefits were also evident at midterm follow-up. These results are promising for the use of SH+ in the management of depressive symptoms and improvement of well-being and self-identified problems among refugees and asylum seekers.
Improving the quality of rehabilitation following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery, in an outpatient physiotherapy department
Authors: Henning Michael , Henning Rose , Dummett Joe 
Published: July 2023

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is a type of orthopaedic knee surgery and physiotherapy rehabilitation is undertaken for several months postoperatively, often with the aim of returning the patient to sport. Variations in postoperative protocols to guide rehabilitation exist between National Health Service (NHS) Trusts. Although there is no single guideline to guide clinicians, strong evidence does support several clinical measures to be included post-ACLR, to improve outcomes and reduce the need for revision surgery. This project aimed to align our NHS Trust’s ACLR physiotherapy care with best-evidence.A literature review was completed to establish key quality standards for ACLR rehabilitation. A retrospective notes audit was then undertaken to quantify the baseline quality of care, measured against these standards. Quality improvement methods were used to improve the quality of care and postoperative rehabilitation processes for ACLR patients. A new evidence-based, postoperative rehabilitation protocol was created, a core group of clinicians was formed to see ACLR patients and a rehabilitation class, solely for ACLR patients was also implemented.The key process measure for the project was patients engaging in ‘criteria-driven progressions of rehabilitation’. This ‘criteria-driven progressions’ rate increased from 0% at baseline to 100% during the project period. Overall, non-attendance rates maintained at a similar level from 5.4% at baseline to a final rate of 4.8%. There was also an increase in mean ‘return to sport’ times, from 6 to 9.9 months, which is in line with best-evidence recommendations.The previous rehabilitation provided in our trust was not aligned with current evidence. This quality improvement project has led to improvements in patient care and lessons from the project will allow other trusts to learn from the changes made, to improve their own care pathways.
Training for managing impacted fetal head at caesarean birth: multimethod evaluation of a pilot
Authors: van der Scheer Jan W , Cornthwaite Katie , Hewitt Pauline , Bahl Rachna , Randall Wendy , Powell Alison , Ansari Akbar , Attal Bothaina , Willars Janet , Woodward Matthew , Brown Imogen A F , Olsson Annabelle , Richards Natalie , Price Evleen , Giusti Alessandra , Leeding Joann , Hinton Lisa , Burt Jenni , Dixon-Woods Mary , Maistrello Giulia , Fahy Nick , Lyons Oscar ,   ABC Contributor Group, Draycott Tim 
Published: July 2023

BackgroundImplementation of national multiprofessional training for managing the obstetric emergency of impacted fetal head (IFH) at caesarean birth has potential to improve quality and safety in maternity care, but is currently lacking in the UK.ObjectivesTo evaluate a training package for managing IFH at caesarean birth with multiprofessional maternity teams.MethodsThe training included an evidence-based lecture supported by an animated video showing management of IFH, followed by hands-on workshops and real-time simulations with use of a birth simulation trainer, augmented reality and management algorithms. Guided by the Kirkpatrick framework, we conducted a multimethod evaluation of the training with multiprofessional maternity teams. Participants rated post-training statements about relevance and helpfulness of the training and pre-training and post-training confidence in their knowledge and skills relating to IFH (7-point Likert scales, strongly disagree to strongly agree). An ethnographer recorded sociotechnical observations during the training. Participants provided feedback in post-training focus groups.ResultsParticipants (N=57) included 21 midwives, 25 obstetricians, 7 anaesthetists and 4 other professionals from five maternity units. Over 95% of participants agreed that the training was relevant and helpful for their clinical practice and improving outcomes following IFH. Confidence in technical and non-technical skills relating to managing IFH was variable before the training (5%–92% agreement with the pre-training statements), but improved in nearly all participants after the training (71%–100% agreement with the post-training statements). Participants and ethnographers reported that the training helped to: (i) better understand the complexity of IFH, (ii) recognise the need for multiprofessional training and management and (iii) optimise communication with those in labour and their birth partners.ConclusionsThe evaluated training package can improve self-reported knowledge, skills and confidence of multiprofessional teams involved in management of IFH at caesarean birth. A larger-scale evaluation is required to validate these findings and establish how best to scale and implement the training.