bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Frailty in the oldest old: is the current level or the rate of change more predictive of mortality?
Authors: Stolz Erwin , Mayerl Hannes , Hoogendijk Emiel O 
Published: January 2022

Abstract

Background
It is unclear whether frailty index (FI) change captures mortality risk better than and independently of the current FI level, i.e. whether a regular FI assessment among older adults provides additional insights for mortality risk stratification or not.

Methods
We used data from the LASA 75-PLUS-study, which monitored health among 508 older adults (75+) between 2016 and 2019 every 9 months. Joint models for longitudinal and time-to-event data were used to assess the impact of both current FI and within-person FI change during the last year on mortality risk.

Results
Twenty percent of the participants died during 4.5 years of follow-up. Adding within-person FI change to the current FI model improved model fit and it showed that FI increases during the last year were associated with an increase in mortality risk. Consequently, the effect of the current FI decreased considerably and became statistically non-significant.

Conclusions
The rate of FI change was more important than the current FI level for short-term mortality prediction among the oldest old, which highlights the benefits of regular frailty assessments.
Ecology of fear and its effect on seed dispersal by a neotropical rodent
Authors: Gálvez Dumas , Hernández Marisol 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Predators exert negative effects on prey, besides the act of killing, generating behavioral and physiological costs, a concept known as the ecology of fear. Studies in scatter-hoarding rodents in temperate zones suggests that prey use habitat structure to perceive predation risk. Less is known about how tropical forest rodents perceive predation risk. Here, we investigated whether the Central American agouti perceive predation risk by ocelots through olfactory cues and whether it influences the foraging behavior for Attalea butyracea seeds, one of its main food sources. By monitoring tagged seeds, we found that seed dispersal and pilferage was lower in sites with high density of ocelots, in line with the predictions of ecology of fear proposing that scared animals eat less. We also found that pilferage rates in high ocelot density sites seem to be lower during the rainy—transition period but not during dry season when food availability is generally low. However, we did not find evidence that agoutis adjust their cache spacing behavior in response to ocelot density. In an additional experiment to corroborate that agoutis’ responses were caused by ocelots’ cues, we found lower dispersal rates for seeds placed next to samples of urine and feces of ocelots as compared to controls, during the first seven days. Moreover, agoutis spent less time handling the seeds with ocelots’ cues. Here, we discuss potential cascading effects linked to the behavior of agoutis towards predation risk.
Propofol selectively modulates functional connectivity signatures of sustained attention during rest and narrative listening
Authors: Chamberlain Taylor A , Rosenberg Monica D 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Sustained attention is a critical cognitive function reflected in an individual’s whole-brain pattern of functional magnetic resonance imaging functional connectivity. However, sustained attention is not a purely static trait. Rather, attention waxes and wanes over time. Do functional brain networks that underlie individual differences in sustained attention also underlie changes in attentional state? To investigate, we replicate the finding that a validated connectome-based model of individual differences in sustained attention tracks pharmacologically induced changes in attentional state. Specifically, preregistered analyses revealed that participants exhibited functional connectivity signatures of stronger attention when awake than when under deep sedation with the anesthetic agent propofol. Furthermore, this effect was relatively selective to the predefined sustained attention networks: propofol administration modulated strength of the sustained attention networks more than it modulated strength of canonical resting-state networks and a network defined to predict fluid intelligence, and the functional connections most affected by propofol sedation overlapped with the sustained attention networks. Thus, propofol modulates functional connectivity signatures of sustained attention within individuals. More broadly, these findings underscore the utility of pharmacological intervention in testing both the generalizability and specificity of network-based models of cognitive function.
Abnormal dynamics of resting-state functional activity and couplings in postpartum depression with and without anxiety
Authors: Cheng Bochao , Wang Xiuli , Roberts Neil , Zhou Yushan , Wang Song , Deng Pengcheng , Meng Yajing , Deng Wei , Wang Jiaojian 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Postpartum depression (PPD) and PPD comorbid with anxiety (PPD-A) are highly prevalent and severe mental health problems in postnatal women. PPD and PPD-A share similar pathopsychological features, leading to ongoing debates regarding the diagnostic and neurobiological uniqueness. This paper aims to delineate common and disorder-specific neural underpinnings and potential treatment targets for PPD and PPD-A by characterizing functional dynamics with resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging in 138 participants (45 first-episode, treatment-naïve PPD; 31 PDD-A patients; and 62 healthy postnatal women [HPW]). PPD-A group showed specifically increased dynamic amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation in the subgenual anterior cingulate cortex (sgACC) and increased dynamic functional connectivity (dFC) between the sgACC and superior temporal sulcus. PPD group exhibited specifically increased static FC (sFC) between the sgACC and ventral anterior insula. Common disrupted sFC between the sgACC and middle temporal gyrus was found in both PPD and PPD-A patients. Interestingly, dynamic changes in dFC between the sgACC and superior temporal gyrus could differentiate PPD, PPD-A, and HPW. Our study presents initial evidence on specifically abnormal functional dynamics of limbic, emotion regulation, and social cognition systems in patients with PDD and PPD-A, which may facilitate understanding neurophysiological mechanisms, diagnosis, and treatment for PPD and PPD-A.
The effects of epigenetic age and its acceleration on surface area, cortical thickness, and volume in young adults
Authors: Cheong Yongjeon , Nishitani Shota , Yu Jinyoung , Habata Kaie , Kamiya Taku , Shiotsu Daichi , Omori Ichiro M , Okazawa Hidehiko , Tomoda Akemi , Kosaka Hirotaka , Jung Minyoung 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
DNA methylation age has been used in recent studies as an epigenetic marker of accelerated cellular aging, whose contribution to the brain structural changes was lately acknowledged. We aimed to characterize the association of epigenetic age (i.e. estimated DNA methylation age) and its acceleration with surface area, cortical thickness, and volume in healthy young adults. Using the multi-tissue method (Horvath S. DNA methylation age of human tissues and cell types. 2013. Genome Biol 14), epigenetic age was computed with saliva sample. Epigenetic age acceleration was derived from residuals after adjusting epigenetic age for chronological age. Multiple regression models were computed for 148 brain regions for surface area, cortical thickness, and volume using epigenetic age or accelerated epigenetic age as a predictor and controlling for sex. Epigenetic age was associated with surface area reduction of the left insula. It was also associated with cortical thinning and volume reduction in multiple regions, with prominent changes of cortical thickness in the left temporal regions and of volume in the bilateral orbital gyri. Finally, accelerated epigenetic age was negatively associated with right cuneus gyrus volume. Our findings suggest that understanding the mechanisms of epigenetic age acceleration in young individuals may yield valuable insights into the relationship between epigenetic aging and the cortical change and on the early development of neurocognitive pathology among young adults.
Direct and Indirect Effects of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic on Private Healthcare Utilization in South Africa, March 2020–September 2021
Authors: Perofsky Amanda C , Tempia Stefano , Bingham Jeremy , Maslo Caroline , Toubkin Mande , Laubscher Anchen , Walaza Sibongile , Pulliam Juliet R C , Viboud Cécile , Cohen Cheryl 
Published: January 2022

Abstract

Background
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused severe disruptions to healthcare in many areas of the world, but data remain scarce for sub-Saharan Africa.

Methods
We evaluated trends in hospital admissions and outpatient emergency department (ED) and general practitioner (GP) visits to South Africa’s largest private healthcare system during 2016–2021. We fit time series models to historical data and, for March 2020–September 2021, quantified changes in encounters relative to baseline.

Results
The nationwide lockdown on 27 March 2020 led to sharp reductions in care-seeking behavior that persisted for 18 months after initial declines. For example, total admissions dropped 59.6% (95% confidence interval [CI], 52.4–66.8) during home confinement and were 33.2% (95% CI, 29–37.4) below baseline in September 2021. We identified 3 waves of all-cause respiratory encounters consistent with COVID-19 activity. Intestinal infections and non–COVID-19 respiratory illnesses experienced the most pronounced declines, with some diagnoses reduced 80%, even as nonpharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) relaxed. Non-respiratory hospitalizations, including injuries and acute illnesses, were 20%–60% below baseline throughout the pandemic and exhibited strong temporal associations with NPIs and mobility. ED attendances exhibited trends similar to those for hospitalizations, while GP visits were less impacted and have returned to pre-pandemic levels.

Conclusions
We found substantially reduced use of health services during the pandemic for a range of conditions unrelated to COVID-19. Persistent declines in hospitalizations and ED visits indicate that high-risk patients are still delaying seeking care, which could lead to morbidity or mortality increases in the future.
Information rents, economic growth and inequality: an empirical study of the United States
Authors: Rotta Tomas N 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
In this paper, I estimate the impact of unproductive activities on economic growth, labour productivity and income inequality in the United States from 1947 to 2011. Productive activities directly create value, while unproductive activities do not. I develop a new methodology to compute the growth of productive and unproductive activities in terms of flows of income and stocks of fixed assets using input-output matrices and national income accounts. A core feature of my methodology is the notion that the commodification of knowledge and information gives rise to ‘information rents’. Information rents are, as I demonstrate, a determinant factor of growth and distribution. I find that unproductive activities have a net positive effect on economic growth and labour productivity, but at the price of increasing income inequality. Unproductive activities that rely on information rents, in particular, have increased income inequality and slowed down value-added growth despite their positive contribution to labour productivity. Information rents have drawn too much value from productive activities and benefitted the top income earners.
Linear Attacks On SNOW 3G And SNOW-V Using Automatic Search
Authors: Shi Zhen , Jin Chenhui 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
In this paper, a linear attack model of SNOW 3G and SNOW-V based on automatic search technology is proposed. We first describe the linear approximation of Finite State Machine transformation, which allows a wider range of automatic search, then model it with the automatic search technology based on SAT/SMT program. Adopting this generic method, we seek out a binary linear approximation of SNOW 3G with correlation of $2^{-21.92}$ which has been verified by test. Treating this binary approximation as a mask of an 8-bit distribution in a fixed field, we provide a method to obtain the 8-bit distribution. The binary approximation is used in a fast correlation attack with expected time and memory complexity $2^{184.67}$, given $2^{173.96}$ key stream words. For the full version of SNOW-V, considering the linear relationship between Linear Feedback Shift Register parts at three successive moments, we search out a distinguisher with correlation of $2^{-175.51}$, which results in a distinguishing attack with an expected complexity of $2^{351.02}$.
Management and Long-term Outcomes of Crohn’s Disease Complicated with Enterocutaneous Fistula: ECUFIT Study from GETECCU
Authors: Barreiro-de Acosta Manuel , Riestra Sabino , Calafat Margalida , Soto María Pilar , Calvo Marta , Sánchez Rodríguez Eugenia , Caballol Berta , Vela Milagros , Rivero Montserrat , Muñoz Fernando , de Castro Luisa , Calvet Xavier , García-Alonso Francisco Javier , Utrilla Fornals Alejandra , Ferreiro-Iglesias Rocío , González-Muñoza Carlos , Chaparro María , Bujanda Luis , Sicilia Beatriz , Alfambra Erika , Rodríguez Andrés , Pérez Fernández Rubén , Rodríguez Cristina , Almela Pedro , Argüelles Federico , Busquets David , Tamarit-Sebastián Sonsoles , Reygosa Castro Cristina , Jiménez Laura , Marín-Jiménez Ignacio , Alcaide Noelia , Fernández-Salgado Estela , Iglesias Águeda , Ponferrada Ángel , Pajares Ramón , Roncero Óscar , Morales-Alvarado Víctor Jair , Ispízua-Madariaga Nahia , Sáinz Empar , Merino Olga , Márquez-Mosquera Lucía , García-Sepulcre Mariana , Elorza Ainara , Estrecha Sandra , Surís Gerard , Van Domselaar Manuel , Brotons Alicia , de Francisco Ruth , Cañete Fiorella , Iglesias Eva , Vera María Isabel , Mesonero Francisco , Lorente Rufo , Zabana Yamile , Cabriada José Luis , Domènech Eugeni , Rodríguez-Lago Iago 
Published: January 2022

Abstract

Background and aims
Crohn’s disease [CD] can develop penetrating complications at any time during the disease course. Enterocutaneous fistulae [ECF] are disease-related complications with an important impact on quality of life. Our aim was to describe the outcomes of this complication, including its medical and/or surgical management and their temporal trends. The primary endpoint was fistula closure, defined as the absence of drainage, with no new abscess or surgery, over the preceding 6 months.

Methods
Clinical information from all adult patients with CD and at least one ECF—excluding perianal fistulae—were identified from the prospectively-maintained ENEIDA registry. All additional information regarding treatment for this complication was retrospectively reviewed.

Results
A total of 301 ECF in 286 patients [January 1970-September 2020] were analysed out of 30 088 records. These lesions were mostly located in the ileum [67%] and they had a median of one external opening [range 1-10]. After a median follow-up of 146 months (interquartile range [IQR], 69-233), 69% of patients underwent surgery. Fistula closure was achieved in 84%, mostly after surgery, and fistula recurrence was uncommon [13%]. Spontaneous and low-output fistulae were associated with higher closure rates (hazard ratio [HR] 1.51, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.17-1.93, p = 0.001, and HR 1.49, 95% CI 1.07-2.06, p = 0.03, respectively); this was obtained more frequently with medical therapy since biologics have been available.

Conclusions
ECF complicating CD are rare but entail a high burden of medical and surgical resources. Closure rates are high, usually after surgery, and fistula recurrence is uncommon. A significant proportion of patients receiving medical therapy can achieve fistula closure.
Evaluation of palatal bone depth, cortical bone, and mucosa thickness for optimal orthodontic miniscrew placement performed according to the third palatal ruga clinical reference
Authors: Nucera Riccardo , Costa Stefania , Bellocchio Angela Mirea , Barbera Serena , Drago Sara , Silvestrini Armando , Migliorati Marco 
Published: January 2022

Summary

Objectives
This retrospective CBCT study aimed to evaluate the palatal anatomical characteristics using the third palatal ruga as a reliable clinical reference for miniscrew placement.

Methods
Thirty-six subjects (mean age17.1 y.o. ± 4.1) were randomly selected and their records (CBCT volume and maxillary digital models) were included.
BlueSkyPlan CBCT software viewer (BluSkyBio, V4.7) was used to measure the following outcomes at the level of third palatal ruga, 2 mm anteriorly and 2 mm posteriorly: total bone depth, cortical bone thickness, and mucosa thickness. The outcomes were evaluated on lines perpendicular to the palatal mucosa laying on different sagittal planes: the mid-palatal plane, 2 and 4 mm paramedian planes.

Results
The maximum mean amount of bone depth was registered 2 mm posteriorly to the third ruga and 4 mm paramedian (9.7 mm). No significant difference was observed between the third ruga insertion site and its corresponding 2 mm posterior site. Cortical bone of palatal vault did not change significantly in anteroposterior direction for all the considered sites. Significant differences were found comparing cortical bone at the suture level with cortical bone 2-mm and 4-mm paramedian at all anteroposterior levels. Palatal mucosa increases its thickness in paramedian insertion sites, and it decreases in posterior insertion sites.

Conclusions
Both third palatal ruga and 2 mm posteriorly to third ruga (4 mm paramedian) could be the optimal insertion site for palatal miniscrew placement, depending on individual anatomic conditions. The thickness of the cortical palatal bone showed, at 4 mm paramedian, optimal characteristics for miniscrew primary stability. Palatal mucosa thickness values suggest miniscrew neck extension of 2.0–2.5 mm for optimal mucosa adaptation.
A qualitative meta-synthesis of research into patients’ past experiences and perceptions of orthodontic treatment outcomes
Authors: Mohammed Hisham , Daniel Ben K , Skilbeck Michael , Kumar Reginald , Halberstadt Jamin B , Farella Mauro 
Published: January 2022

AbstractBackgroundThere is a growing body of evidence emphasizing the importance of research into patient-centred experience in orthodontics. Benefits following orthodontic treatment are mainly related to improved aesthetics and psychosocial outcomes. However, treatment experience from the perspective of orthodontic patients is yet to be fully understood.ObjectiveTo understand the past experiences and current perceptions of treatment outcomes of orthodontic patients.Study designA qualitative meta-ethnography.Selection criteriaQualitative studies and mixed-methods articles with a distinct qualitative component presenting patients’ perception of outcomes and overall experiences after an active course of orthodontic treatment were included.Search methodsComprehensive electronic searches were conducted in MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and EMBASE up to May 2021, supplemented by grey literature and manual searches.Data collection and analysisTwo independent reviewers were involved in study selection, data extraction, and quality appraisal. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme tool for qualitative research was used to assess the quality of included studies. Analysis of data was conducted using meta-ethnographic methods.ResultsOut of 801 retrieved search hits, six studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were included in the synthesis. The analysis revealed three main themes and associated sub-themes: (1) Reflection on the past treatment experience, (2) Patient satisfaction with treatment outcomes, and (3) Learning to live with retainers.LimitationsResults express patients’ opinions shortly after treatment, and the long-term impact of orthodontic treatment is yet to be understood.ConclusionsOrthodontic patients mainly viewed their experiences and treatment results positively. Desirable aesthetic outcomes, psychosocial outcomes, and satisfaction with smiles were often reported in the studies reviewed. However, some barriers to optimal experiences were noticed concerning orthodontic retention.RegistrationPROSPERO (CRD42020180121).
Teacher agency and washback: insights from classrooms in rural Bangladesh
Authors: Ali Md. Maksud , Hamid M Obaidul 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Although washback has been widely explored by applied linguists and education researchers, little attention has been paid to teacher agency in relation to it. It is critical to understand how language teachers navigate their pedagogy and respond to the broader curricular goals at a time when schools and teachers are being governed using examination and test data as accountability mechanisms. Drawing on data from classroom observations and interviews with two English teachers from a rural Bangladeshi school, this article illustrates how these teachers exercised their agency even under strong political pressure to improve students’ test data. The findings indicate that traditional understanding of washback as deterministic may be insufficient to account for the complex ways in which teachers may respond to broader educational goals in the context of washback. The study concludes with theoretical, empirical, and pedagogic implications for washback research and teacher education.
National High-Stakes Testing, Gender, and School Stress in Europe: A Difference-in-Differences Analysis
Authors: Högberg Björn , Horn Daniel 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
In this study, we ask if high-stakes testing affects school-related stress among students and if there are gender differences in these effects. Students’ results on high-stakes tests can have long-term consequences for their future educational trajectories and life chances. For girls, who tend to have higher educational aspirations and tend to gain more from higher education, the stakes involved may be even higher. The use of high-stakes testing has increased across Europe, but little is known about their consequences for stress or wellbeing. We combine macro-level data on high-stakes testing with survey data on more than 300,000 students aged 11–15 years in 31 European countries from three waves (2002, 2006, and 2010) of the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children study. With variation in high-stakes testing across countries, years, and grade levels, we use a quasi-experimental difference-in-differences design for the identification of causal effects. We find that high-stakes testing increases the risk of moving from low to high levels of self-reported school stress by 4 percentage points, or by 12 per cent relative to baseline values. This effect is somewhat larger for girls, though not significantly so. The results are robust to a range of sensitivity analyses.