bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinicodemographic Profile and Clinical Outcome of Children Presenting to Telemedicine Center at Institute of National Importance of India: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Yankappa N. , Kumar Anil , Prasad Arun , Tiwari Lokesh , Kumar Pradeep
Published: January 2024

Background. There is a global shortage of healthcare professionals, especially in developing countries, leading to disparities in access to healthcare, worsened by the pandemic. Telemedicine is emerging as a solution, with growing adoption worldwide due to advancements in technology and increased awareness. Research Problem. The establishment of telemedicine depends on resources, infrastructure, and knowledge about healthcare needs. Further studies are needed to monitor and address evolving issues in telemedicine. The Overall Purpose of the Study. Rural health disparities stem from multiple factors, like limited healthcare access, workforce shortages, lifestyle choices, and lower socioeconomic status, leading to higher mortality and chronic diseases. Addressing these challenges is vital for rural community well-being. Telemedicine centers present a promising solution, bridging gaps, and improving healthcare outcomes for underserved remote populations. Methodology. Objective: This study assessed the clinicodemographic profile and clinical outcome of children presenting to the telemedicine center at the Institute of National Importance in India. Design: Prospective observational study. Setting: A single-center tertiary care level. Participants: This study included 79 children aged up to 18 years. Major Findings and Summary of Interpretations. In our study, 79 children using telemedicine found a near-equal gender distribution. 8.9% needed emergency care, with common complaints being respiratory issues, fever, abdominal pain, and vomiting. After two weeks, 83.5% showed improvement, emphasizing telemedicine’s effectiveness in pediatric care. Conclusion. Our study underscores telemedicine’s positive impact on pediatric healthcare, emphasizing its potential to enhance access, outcomes, and cost-efficiency. Wider telemedicine adoption can reduce morbidity and mortality, support preventive care, and streamline posttreatment services, alleviating pressure on specialized facilities. While our focus was pediatrics, the telemedicine model is adaptable to various age groups and conditions, but it should be seen as a valuable supplement to, not a total substitute for, in-person healthcare visits.
Prevalence and Correlates of Post-Diagnosis Alcohol Use among Cancer Survivors
Authors: Heffner Jaimee L. , Ton Mimi , Jones Salene M.W. , Malen Rachel C. , Cohen Stacey A. , Newcomb Polly A.
Published: January 2024

Background:

Alcohol is a risk factor for cancer and may pose unique risks for cancer survivors. Population-based studies of confirmed cancer cases are needed to estimate the extent of drinking among cancer survivors and to understand which survivors are most at risk of alcohol-related health problems.

Methods:

Cancer survivors who resided in the Puget Sound Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) region, were ages 21 to 74 years at diagnosis, and were 6 to 17 months post-diagnosis at the start of the recruitment period (April 2020–December 2020) were sent a survey that included demographics, substance use, mental health, and cancer-related items. Data from returned surveys (n = 1,488) were weighted to represent the characteristics of the Puget Sound SEER region. We estimated the prevalence of post-diagnosis alcohol use as well as demographic, behavioral, and clinical correlates of three levels of drinking: any drinking, drinking exceeding cancer prevention guidelines, and hazardous drinking.

Results:

The weighted prevalence of any drinking, drinking exceeding cancer prevention guidelines, and hazardous drinking was 71%, 46.2%, and 31.6%, respectively. Higher income and cannabis use were associated with increased odds of all three drinking levels. Lower physical health quality of life, having non-colorectal gastrointestinal cancer, and receiving chemotherapy within the last month were associated with decreased odds of all three drinking levels.

Conclusions:

The prevalence of any drinking and at-risk drinking was higher than in previous studies and differed based on sociodemographic, substance use, and cancer-related factors.

Impact:

Findings highlight the importance of identifying and addressing risky alcohol use in cancer care settings.
TABLE 2 from A Revised Molecular Model of Ovarian Cancer Biomarker CA125 (MUC16) Enabled by Long-read Sequencing
Authors: Wang Chien-Wei , Weaver Simon D. , Boonpattrawong Nicha , Schuster-Little Naviya , Patankar Manish , Whelan Rebecca J.
Published: January 2024

The amino acid consensus sequence derived from long-read cDNA sequencing of six sources of MUC16 mRNA
Figure S9 from A Revised Molecular Model of Ovarian Cancer Biomarker CA125 (MUC16) Enabled by Long-read Sequencing
Authors: Wang Chien-Wei , Weaver Simon D. , Boonpattrawong Nicha , Schuster-Little Naviya , Patankar Manish , Whelan Rebecca J.
Published: January 2024

Comparison of AlphaFold predicted MUC16 tandem repeat and murine SEA domain (PDB 1IVZ, reference 36). The repeat 6 structure predicted by AlphaFold (brown) and NMR solution structure of a murine SEA domain (gray) are overlayed. The SEA domain predicted by AlphaFold shows high similarity with the murine SEA domain.
FIGURE 6 from A Revised Molecular Model of Ovarian Cancer Biomarker CA125 (MUC16) Enabled by Long-read Sequencing
Authors: Wang Chien-Wei , Weaver Simon D. , Boonpattrawong Nicha , Schuster-Little Naviya , Patankar Manish , Whelan Rebecca J.
Published: January 2024

AlphaFold predicted MUC16 tandem repeat model. The 19 tandem repeat structures were predicted individually and overlaid. All repeats contain a similar structure including two alpha helices, one beta sheet, and a proline/serine/threonine-rich disordered region (this region is not predicted with high confidence and is omitted for clarity).
Data from A Revised Molecular Model of Ovarian Cancer Biomarker CA125 (MUC16) Enabled by Long-read Sequencing
Authors: Wang Chien-Wei , Weaver Simon D. , Boonpattrawong Nicha , Schuster-Little Naviya , Patankar Manish , Whelan Rebecca J.
Published: January 2024

Abstract
The biomarker CA125, a peptide epitope located in several tandem repeats of the mucin MUC16, is the gold standard for monitoring regression and recurrence of high-grade serous ovarian cancer in response to therapy. However, the CA125 epitope along with several structural features of the MUC16 molecule are ill defined. One central aspect still unresolved is the number of tandem repeats in MUC16 and how many of these repeats contain the CA125 epitope. Studies from the early 2000s assembled short DNA reads to estimate that MUC16 contained 63 repeats.

Here, we conduct Nanopore long-read sequencing of MUC16 transcripts from three primary ovarian tumors and established cell lines (OVCAR3, OVCAR5, and Kuramochi) for a more exhaustive and accurate estimation and sequencing of the MUC16 tandem repeats.

The consensus sequence derived from these six sources was confirmed by proteomics validation and agrees with recent additions to the NCBI database. We propose a model of MUC16 containing 19—not 63—tandem repeats. In addition, we predict the structure of the tandem repeat domain using the deep learning algorithm, AlphaFold.

The predicted structure displays an SEA domain and unstructured linker region rich in proline, serine, and threonine residues in all 19 tandem repeats. These studies now pave the way for a detailed characterization of the CA125 epitope. Sequencing and modeling of the MUC16 tandem repeats along with their glycoproteomic characterization, currently underway in our laboratories, will help identify novel epitopes in the MUC16 molecule that improve on the sensitivity and clinical utility of the current CA125 assay.
Significance:
Despite its crucial role in clinical management of ovarian cancer, the exact molecular sequence and structure of the biomarker, CA125, are not defined. Here, we combine long-read sequencing, mass spectrometry, and in silico modeling to provide the foundational dataset for a more complete characterization of the CA125 epitope.
Neurodevelopment in Term Infants with Normal Birthweight following Postnatal Systemic Steroid Exposure
Authors: Yi Yoon Young , Ha Eun Kyo , Shin Jiwoon , Baek Hey-Sung , Cha Hye Ryeong , Kim Ju Hee , Han Man Yong
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Studies investigating the potential impact of systemic steroid exposure during early infancy on neurological development in full-term infants with normal birth weight are lacking. Methods: This population-based administrative cohort study used data of national health insurance and a health-screening program for infants and children and included full-term infants who were born in Korea between 2008 and 2012 with normal birth weight and did not have any specific perinatal or neurodevelopmental diseases. The prescription of systemic steroids within the first 3 months of age was mainly considered. The neurological development of children was assessed using the Korean Development Screening Test (K-DST) at 6 years of age. To balance the baseline characteristics of the control and exposed groups, stabilized inverse probability of treatment weighting with trimming was performed in the main cohort. Ordinal logistic regression was used to assess the association between systemic steroid exposure and unfavorable results in the K-DST. Results: The control and exposure groups had 246,168 and 5,083 children, respectively. The K-DST suggested unfavorable results in 8.1% and 8.6% children in the control and exposure groups, respectively (weighted odds ratio, 95% confidence interval, 1.03, 0.93–1.14). When each domain of the K-DST was considered separately, the risk of unfavorable results in the exposed group was not significantly different from that in the control group. Conclusions: No significant association was observed between exposure to systemic steroids during early infancy and neurodevelopmental impairment at 6 years of age.
TherapyBot: a chatbot for mental well-being using transformers
Authors: Dharrao Deepak , Gite Shilpa
Published: January 2024

The field of natural language processing (NLP) and conversational artificial intelligence (AI) has one ingenious application in the psychological space. Depression and anxiety are two major issues that the world is facing, with close to 41% of adults reporting these symptoms in the United States alone, as of December 2020. It has also been observed that most of the people are not open about it. As a result, it is critical to address this issue on a global scale. Developed countries reportedly have 9 psychiatrists per 100,000 people. One way to mitigate this is the use of chatbots. We propose a transformer-based methodology to build a therapy bot that has been trained on a combination of open-domain conversations from a publicly available dataset and therapist-client conversations from a self-constructed dataset. This end-to-end data-driven model shows quality performance in conversations and adds value by aiding in the case of mental health issues. The proposed architecture is proven to be effective in its usability in the psychological space for both single-turn and multi-turn dialogue. The performance of the proposed system shows loss is 0.29 and perplexity is 1.34, both metrics keeps gradually decreasing and it means an improvement in performance of chatbots system.
Complexes and bioenergy of invertebrates in oil-polluted gray-brown soils of Absheron
Authors: Ahmed Pirverdi Samadov
Published: January 2024

Oil pollution negatively impacts not only the physicochemical and morpho-genetic parameters of soils but also the vital activity of soil biota-microorganisms and invertebrates. Studies have established that in the uncontaminated gray-brown soil of the Binagadi and Karadag massifs, the bulk of the invertebrate complex is gastropoda, insecta, tenebrionidae, and carabidae. In lightly oil-polluted biotopes, insecta, gastropoda, lithobiidae, tenebrionidae, carabidae, buprestidae, and woodlice of the genus hemilepstus occupy the leading place. The total number and biomass of invertebrates in uncontaminated biotopes of gray-brown soils of the Binagadi and Karadag massifs is 19.2 ind/m2, respectively; 26 gr/m2 and 20 ind/m2; 3.64 gr/m2. In slightly oil-contaminated biotopes, these indicators vary between 25.6 ind/m2, respectively; 3.5 gr/m2 and 12.8 ind/m2; 0.84 gr/m2. The energy accumulated in the mesofauna biomass in the slightly oil-polluted biotopes of the Karadag and Binagadi massif varies between 0.3268 gr/m2-1418.94 cal/m2 and 1.0468 gr/m2-5072.20 cal/m2, respectively. Thus, the reliability of the biogeocenoses is determined by the level and effective activity of soil organisms.
Proposed algorithm base optimization scheme for intrusion detection using feature selection
Authors: Laassar Imane , Hadi Moulay Youssef
Published: January 2024

The number of devices linked to the internet is rapidly increasing as the internet has become ingrained in every aspect of modern life. However, certain issues are getting worse, and their resolutions are not well-defined. One of the main issues is convergence and speed for communication between different internet of things (IoT) devices and their security. For that purpose, in this paper, an improved artificial bee colony (ABC) algorithm with binary search equations along with neural networks is proposed, known as the artificial bee colony algorithm with binary search equations (BABCN) algorithm for intrusion detection in terms of convergence and speed for communication. The depth-first search framework and binary search equations on which the artificial bee colony algorithm with binary search equations algorithm is built improve the algorithm’s capacity for exploitation and speed up convergence. The initial weight and threshold value of the ABC neural networks are optimized using an algorithm to prevent them from entering a local optimum during the training procedure and accelerating training. The NSL-KDD dataset was used, and based on the results; the proposed algorithm improves classification and has high intrusion detection ability in the network. The proposed has undergone tests to be evaluated, and the results show that it performs better in detection accuracy, time, and false positive rate.
Performance assessment of routing protocols for campus area emergency delay-tolerant network
Authors: Roy Sujan Chandra , Rahim Muhammad Sajjadur , Islam Md Ashraful
Published: January 2024

Handheld devices have recently become an indispensable part of our daily lives. These devices always require an end-to-end connection for proper message transmission. Message transmission will be halted if the connection fails. In this case, delay-tolerant networks (DTNs) are preferable. One of the most important applications of DTN is the transmission of emergency messages among rescue personnel in the aftermath of a disaster. Previously, we created a simulation map in the Rajshahi University (RU) campus area of Bangladesh and studied the performance of DTN routing protocols. This paper used our developed simulation map to evaluate the performance of DTN and social-based routing protocols for emergency message circulation in the RU campus area when traditional communication networks are unavailable. We conducted extensive experiments with the opportunistic network environment (ONE) simulator for evaluations. The performance analysis is based on the delivery ratio, average latency, transmission cost, and average hop count of each group when the message size and node density are changed. According to the simulation results, dLife outperforms all other routing protocols in terms of delivery ratio, while the Spray-and-Focus routing protocol outperforms all other performance metrics.
Lived Experiences of Head Campers in Summer Camp
Authors: Bontuyan Jessie Limutan , Judaya Gerbie Rivera , Tero Alona Padayogdog , Del Castillo Flordeliza Dayday , Telebangco Lucel Abucay
Published: January 2024

Summer camps have proven effective in providing opportunities for social contact, personal development, and the improvement of the problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities of the students. However, significant findings about head campers’ lived experiences in the field are scarce, especially in the Philippine context. To provide a groundwork of the phenomenon, this study delved into the head campers' lived experiences in preparation and implementation phases using the descriptive phenomenology of Husserl. At the same time, Colaizzi’s seven-step method was used in thematic analysis. Individual guided interviews were utilized to gather participants’ responses. Nine head campers who were active participants from the beginning up to the end of the program served as the participants of the study. Based on the participants’ narratives, the following themes were generated: a) preparation phase: triumphs in camaraderie, teachers are willing to learn new subject matter, time constraints in preparing the resources, and no ample time to review new subject matter; b) implementation phase: develop students’ positive learning behavior, develop students’ thinking skills, Students unable to master the fundamental knowledge, and teachers are struggling to integrate higher order thinking skills. The findings implied that despite the sector and participants’ efforts to make the program successful, there were still untoward instances that are beyond the program’s expectations. Therefore, mentoring sessions and feed-backing activities all throughout the implementation must be strengthened and closely monitored by higher authorities so they can provide immediate and practical assistance for the head campers.
Symbols and Images of Peace in the Meranaw Epic Darangen
Authors: Casan Hammim B.
Published: January 2024

A profound relationship exists between literature and peace that transcends centuries and cultures. In the southern Philippines, the Meranaw people consider peace to be more than a mere notion; it is an intrinsic aspect of their cultural and traditional way of life. Furthermore, by applying critical discourse analysis to the symbols and images in the Volume 1 of the Meranaw epic Darangen, this literary research elucidates the significance of peace. This is further supported by Aristotle's Theory of Poetry, Stuart Hall's Cultural Studies, Sigmund Freud's Psychoanalytic Theory, and Karl Marx's Marxism. Moreover, it is found that fear, marriage, dialogue, status, royalty, tolerance, power, nobility and proletariat, cleanliness, communication, discontinuity, death, politeness, sacrifice, pride, royalty, divinity, harmony, support, safety, divine protection, and courage are the meanings of the symbols and images in relation to peace. Each symbol and image in the epic illustrate how the Meranaw people define peace. Peace is represented in marriage, gatherings in the torogan, the colors of the malong, flags, jewelry and gold, gifts, and divine like the spirits, magic chair, and shield in the epic. Further, the epic portrays that peace for the Meranaw people can only be achieved by valuing their honor, dignity, self-esteem, and reputation. Hence, this study revealed the symbols and images in the epic that reflect the concepts of peace in the Meranaw community.
Thriving in Constraints: Exploring the Interplay of Human Capital, Social Capital, and Financial Constraints in Frugal Innovation within Family Businesses
Authors: Alumno Timothy Allan D. , Azurin Raya Gabriele T. , Dumayas John Renz I. , Tan Sherleen G. , Tanpoco Manuel R. , Caminong Joliber M.
Published: January 2024

This study aims to learn the impact of human capital, social capital, and financial constraints on frugal innovation as perceived by family businesses in the Philippines. Quantitative research was performed using data collected from 93 family businesses, which were analyzed using simple linear regression and structural equation modeling. The results showed that human capital, social capital, and financial constraints, individually and collectively, have a significant impact on frugal innovation. The results also indicated that all measures used for human capital and financial constraints are acceptable, while some measures of social capital and frugal innovation were deemed unfit and were removed from the model. The academe should expand or improve its discussion and curriculum on frugal innovation and continue to look at this through the lenses of its theoretical and practical aspects. Moreover, professors and students should study the relationship further and ultimately expand knowledge and understanding. Family businesses should prioritize improving their human capital to enhance their frugal innovation capabilities. Implementing efficient financial procedures, investigating alternative funding sources, and actively seeking external finance opportunities are crucial. Moreover, family businesses should develop robust social networks. Lastly, the Philippine government should actively encourage continuous learning through mentorship programs and networks.
Philippines’ Fluidity of Innovation from 2001 to 2021: Interpretations and Implications
Authors: Jose David S.
Published: January 2024

While innovation is generally accepted as one of the drivers of economic growth, most innovation metrics are qualitative and have a relatively lesser impact on policymaking than their quantitative counterparts. With this challenge, this paper presents another quantitative metric: the Fluidity of Innovation applied in the Philippines from 2001 to 2021. The study analyses data from public government reports and reputable private entities using the contextualized Reynolds Number from fluid mechanics. The findings reveal a significant transformation in the Philippines' innovation, moving from a laminar (smooth and predictable) to a turbulent (rapid and complex) phase; this indicates the country has a growing capacity to cater to rapid development in technology such as Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Computers. Since the Philippines is leaning towards a turbulent flow of innovation, some technology will be felt as Radical Innovation instead of Disruptive Innovation across the industries that allow the labor force to experience empowerment rather than a complete layoff. This research contributes to the broader understanding of innovation's role in the Philippine economy and fiscal policies, particularly those for innovation and technology.
Matrisome and Immune Pathways Contribute to Extreme Vascular Outcomes in Williams–Beuren Syndrome
Authors: Liu Delong , Billington Charles J. , Raja Neelam , Wong Zoe C. , Levin Mark D. , Resch Wulfgang , Alba Camille , Hupalo Daniel N. , Biamino Elisa , Bedeschi Maria Francesca , Digilio Maria Cristina , Squeo Gabriella Maria , Villa Roberta , Parrish Pheobe C. R. , Knutsen Russell H. , Osgood Sharon , Freeman Joy A. , Dalgard Clifton L. , Merla Giuseppe , Pober Barbara R. , Mervis Carolyn B. , Roberts Amy E. , Morris Colleen A. , Osborne Lucy R. , Kozel Beth A.
Published: January 2024

Background

Supravalvar aortic stenosis (SVAS) is a characteristic feature of Williams–Beuren syndrome (WBS). Its severity varies: ~20% of people with Williams–Beuren syndrome have SVAS requiring surgical intervention, whereas ~35% have no appreciable SVAS. The remaining individuals have SVAS of intermediate severity. Little is known about genetic modifiers that contribute to this variability.

Methods and Results

We performed genome sequencing on 473 individuals with Williams–Beuren syndrome and developed strategies for modifier discovery in this rare disease population. Approaches include extreme phenotyping and nonsynonymous variant prioritization, followed by gene set enrichment and pathway‐level association tests. We next used GTEx v8 and proteomic data sets to verify expression of candidate modifiers in relevant tissues. Finally, we evaluated overlap between the genes/pathways identified here and those ascertained through larger aortic disease/trait genome‐wide association studies. We show that SVAS severity in Williams–Beuren syndrome is associated with increased frequency of common and rarer variants in matrisome and immune pathways. Two implicated matrisome genes (
ACAN
and
LTBP4
) were uniquely expressed in the aorta. Many genes in the identified pathways were previously reported in genome‐wide association studies for aneurysm, bicuspid aortic valve, or aortic size.

Conclusions

Smaller sample sizes in rare disease studies necessitate new approaches to detect modifiers. Our strategies identified variation in matrisome and immune pathways that are associated with SVAS severity. These findings suggest that, like other aortopathies, SVAS may be influenced by the balance of synthesis and degradation of matrisome proteins. Leveraging multiomic data and results from larger aorta‐focused genome‐wide association studies may accelerate modifier discovery for rare aortopathies like SVAS.
Impact of Cardiac Rehabilitation Health Insurance Coverage on Cardiac Rehabilitation Use in Korea Using an Interrupted Time Series
Authors: Park Yu Shin , Song In Sun , Jang Suk‐Yong , Nam Chung Mo , Park Eun‐Cheol
Published: January 2024

Background

Since 2017, the cardiac rehabilitation (CR) program in Korea has been included in the coverage provided by the National Health Insurance to alleviate financial burden. Our study aimed to identify changes in the CR program use according to the implementation of CR coverage.

Methods and Results

We obtained data from the electronic medical records of a tertiary hospital in Seoul, Korea from January 2014 to February 2020. Data from 2988 patients with acute coronary syndrome who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention were included. To examine the CR use trend among patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention, the electronic medical records data of the patients were aggregated quarterly, resulting in a maximum of 24 repeated measures for each patient. Segmented regression is often used to estimate the effects of interventions in an interrupted time series. Policy implementation led to a prompt increase in the probability of CR use (odds ratio [OR], 3.99 [95% CI, 2.89–5.51]). After the implementation of CR coverage, no significant change in CR use (OR, 0.97 [95% CI, 0.92–1.01]) was observed. After percutaneous coronary intervention, more patients opted for CR, especially those receiving education compared with exercise (education: OR, 87.44 [95% CI, 36.79–207.83] versus exercise: OR, 1.99 [95% CI, 1.43–2.76]).

Conclusions

The implementation of CR coverage resulted in a rapid increase in the probability of CR use. Use of the educational program was higher than that of the exercise program. Given the persistently low use of CR, it is imperative to stimulate its adoption by increasing its availability.
Treatment of Acute Myocardial Infarction and Cardiogenic Shock: Outcomes of the RECOVER III Postapproval Study by Society of Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions Shock Stage
Authors: Hanson Ivan D. , Rusia Akash , Palomo Andres , Tawney Adam , Pow Timothy , Dixon Simon R. , Meraj Perwaiz , Sievers Eric , Johnson Michael , Wohns David , Ali Omar , Kapur Navin K. , Grines Cindy , Burkhoff Daniel , Anderson Mark , Lansky Alexandra , Naidu Srihari S. , Basir Mir B. , O'Neill William
Published: January 2024

Background

The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions proposed a staging system (A–E) to predict prognosis in cardiogenic shock. Herein, we report clinical outcomes of the RECOVER III study for the first time, according to Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions shock classification.

Methods and Results

The RECOVER III study is an observational, prospective, multicenter, single‐arm, postapproval study of patients with acute myocardial infarction with cardiogenic shock undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention with Impella support. Patients enrolled in the RECOVER III study were assigned a baseline Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions shock stage. Staging was then repeated within 24 hours after initiation of Impella. Kaplan‐Meier survival curve analyses were conducted to assess survival across Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions shock stages at both time points. At baseline assessment, 16.5%, 11.4%, and 72.2% were classified as stage C, D, and E, respectively. At ≤24‐hour assessment, 26.4%, 33.2%, and 40.0% were classified as stage C, D, and E, respectively. Thirty‐day survival among patients with stage C, D, and E shock at baseline was 59.7%, 56.5%, and 42.9%, respectively (
P
=0.003). Survival among patients with stage C, D, and E shock at ≤24 hours was 65.7%, 52.1%, and 29.5%, respectively (
P
<0.001). After multivariable analysis of impact of shock stage classifications at baseline and ≤24 hours, only stage E classification at ≤24 hours was a significant predictor of mortality (odds ratio, 4.8;
P
<0.001).

Conclusions

In a real‐world cohort of patients with acute myocardial infarction with cardiogenic shock undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention with Impella support, only stage E classification at ≤24 hours was significantly predictive of mortality, suggesting that response to therapy may be more important than clinical severity of shock at presentation.
Longitudinal Lipidomic Signature of Coronary Heart Disease in American Indian People
Authors: Miao Guanhong , Pechlaner Raimund , Fiehn Oliver , Malloy Kimberly M. , Zhang Ying , Umans Jason G. , Mayr Manuel , Willeit Johann , Kiechl Stefan , Zhao Jinying
Published: January 2024

Background

Dyslipidemia is an independent risk factor for coronary heart disease (CHD). Standard lipid panel cannot capture the complexity of the blood lipidome (ie, all molecular lipids in the blood). To date, very few large‐scale epidemiological studies have assessed the full spectrum of the blood lipidome on risk of CHD, especially in a longitudinal setting.

Methods and Results

Using an untargeted liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry, we repeatedly measured 1542 lipid species from 1835 unique American Indian participants who attended 2 clinical visits (≈5.5 years apart) and followed up to 17.8 years in the Strong Heart Family Study (SHFS). We first identified baseline lipid species associated with risk of CHD, followed by replication in a European population. The model adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, smoking, hypertension, diabetes, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, estimated glomerular filtration rate, education, and physical activity at baseline. We then examined the longitudinal association between changes in lipid species and changes in cardiovascular risk factors during follow‐up. Multiple testing was controlled by the false discovery rate. We found that baseline levels of multiple lipid species (eg, phosphatidylcholines, phosphatidylethanolamines, and ceramides) were associated with the risk of CHD and improved the prediction accuracy over conventional risk factors in American Indian people. Some identified lipids in American Indian people were replicated in European people. Longitudinal changes in multiple lipid species (eg, acylcarnitines, phosphatidylcholines, and triacylglycerols) were associated with changes in cardiovascular risk factors.

Conclusions

Baseline plasma lipids and their longitudinal changes over time are associated with risk of CHD. These findings provide novel insights into the role of dyslipidemia in CHD.
Associations of Lifelong Exercise Characteristics With Valvular Function and Aortic Diameters in Patients With a Bicuspid Aortic Valve
Authors: Schreurs Bibi A. , Hopman Maria T. E. , Bakker Chantal M. , Duijnhouwer Anthonie L. , van Royen Niels , Thompson Paul D. , van Kimmenade Roland R. J. , Eijsvogels Thijs M. H.
Published: January 2024

Background

The potential impact of exercise on valvular function and aortic diameters in patients with a bicuspid aortic valve remains unclear. Therefore, we assessed the association between lifelong exercise characteristics, valvular dysfunction, and aortic dilatation in patients with a bicuspid aortic valve.

Methods and Results

In this cross‐sectional study, exercise volume (metabolic equivalent of task minutes per week), exercise intensity, and sport type were determined from the age of 12 years to participation using a validated questionnaire. Echocardiography was used to assess aortic stenosis or aortic regurgitation and to measure diameters at the sinuses of Valsalva and ascending aorta. Aortic dilatation was defined as a
Z
‐score ≥2. Four hundred and seven patients (42±17 years, 60% men) were included, of which 133 were sedentary (<500 metabolic equivalent of task minutes per week), 94 active (500–1000 metabolic equivalent of task minutes per week), and 180 highly active (≥1000 metabolic equivalent of task minutes per week). Moderate‐to‐severe aortic stenosis or aortic regurgitation was present in 23.7% and 20.0%, respectively. Sinuses of Valsalva and ascending aorta diameters were 34.8±6.6 and 36.5±8.1 mm, whereas aortic dilatation was found in 21.6% and 53.4%, respectively. Exercise volume was not associated with valve dysfunction or aortic dilatation. Vigorous intensity and mixed sports were associated with a lower prevalence of aortic stenosis (adjusted odds ratios, 0.43 [0.20–0.94] and adjusted odds ratios, 0.47 [0.23–0.95]). Exercise intensity and sport type were not associated with aortic regurgitation and aortic dilatation.

Conclusions

We found no deleterious associations between lifelong exercise characteristics, valvular dysfunction, and aortic dilatation in patients with a bicuspid aortic valve. Vigorous intensity and exercise in mixed sports were associated with a lower prevalence of moderate‐to‐severe aortic stenosis. These observations suggest that lifelong exercise does not appear to induce adverse cardiovascular effects in patients with a bicuspid aortic valve.
Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate and Implantable Cardioverter‐Defibrillator in Nonischemic Systolic Heart Failure: Extended Follow‐Up of DANISH
Authors: Doi Seiko N. , Thune Jens Jakob , Nielsen Jens C. , Haarbo Jens , Videbæk Lars , Yafasova Adelina , Bruun Niels E. , Gustafsson Finn , Eiskjær Hans , Hassager Christian , Svendsen Jesper H. , Høfsten Dan E. , Torp‐Pedersen Christian , Pehrson Steen , Køber Lars , Butt Jawad H.
Published: January 2024

Background

Patients with heart failure and chronic kidney disease (CKD) may have an increased risk of death from causes competing with arrhythmic death, which could have implications for the efficacy of implantable cardioverter‐defibrillators (ICDs). We examined the long‐term effects of primary prophylactic ICD implantation, compared with usual care, according to baseline CKD status in an extended follow‐up study of DANISH (Danish Study to Assess the Efficacy of ICDs in Patients With Nonischemic Systolic Heart Failure on Mortality).

Methods and Results

In the DANISH trial, 1116 patients with nonischemic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction were randomized to receive an ICD (N=556) or usual care (N=550). Outcomes were analyzed according to CKD status (estimated glomerular filtration rate ≥/<60 mL/min per 1.73 m
2
) at baseline. In total, 1113 patients had an available estimated glomerular filtration rate measurement at baseline (median estimated glomerular filtration rate 73 mL/min per 1.73 m
2
), and 316 (28%) had CKD. During a median follow‐up of 9.5 years, ICD implantation, compared with usual care, did not reduce the rate of all‐cause mortality (no CKD, HR, 0.82 [95% CI, 0.64–1.04]; CKD, HR, 1.02 [95% CI, 0.75–1.38];
P
interaction
=0.31) or cardiovascular death (no CKD, HR, 0.77 [95% CI, 0.58–1.03]; CKD, HR, 1.05 [95% CI, 0.73–1.51];
P
interaction
=0.20), irrespective of baseline CKD status. Similarly, baseline CKD status did not modify the beneficial effects of ICD implantation on sudden cardiovascular death (no CKD, HR, 0.57 [95% CI, 0.32–1.00]; CKD, HR, 0.65 [95% CI, 0.34–1.24];
P
interaction
=0.70).

Conclusions

ICD implantation, compared with usual care, did not reduce the overall mortality rate, but it did reduce the rate of sudden cardiovascular death, regardless of baseline kidney function in patients with nonischemic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT00542945.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Tissue Signatures Associated With White Matter Changes Due to Sporadic Cerebral Small Vessel Disease Indicate That White Matter Hyperintensities Can Regress
Authors: Jochems Angela C. C. , Muñoz Maniega Susana , Clancy Una , Arteaga Carmen , Jaime Garcia Daniela , Chappell Francesca M. , Hewins Will , Locherty Rachel , Backhouse Ellen V. , Barclay Gayle , Jardine Charlotte , McIntyre Donna , Gerrish Iona , Kampaite Agniete , Sakka Eleni , Valdés Hernández Maria , Wiseman Stewart , Bastin Mark E. , Stringer Michael S. , Thrippleton Michael J. , Doubal Fergus N. , Wardlaw Joanna M.
Published: January 2024

Background

White matter hyperintensities (WMHs) might regress and progress contemporaneously, but we know little about underlying mechanisms. We examined WMH change and underlying quantitative magnetic resonance imaging tissue measures over 1 year in patients with minor ischemic stroke with sporadic cerebral small vessel disease.

Methods and Results

We defined areas of stable normal‐appearing white matter, stable WMHs, progressing and regressing WMHs based on baseline and 1‐year brain magnetic resonance imaging. In these areas we assessed tissue characteristics with quantitative T1, fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), and neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (baseline only). We compared tissue signatures cross‐sectionally between areas, and longitudinally within each area. WMH change masks were available for N=197. Participants' mean age was 65.61 years (SD, 11.10), 59% had a lacunar infarct, and 68% were men. FA and MD were available for N=195, quantitative T1 for N=182, and neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging for N=174. Cross‐sectionally, all 4 tissue classes differed for FA, MD, T1, and Neurite Density Index. Longitudinally, in regressing WMHs, FA increased with little change in MD and T1 (difference estimate, 0.011 [95% CI, 0.006–0.017]; −0.002 [95% CI, −0.008 to 0.003] and −0.003 [95% CI, −0.009 to 0.004]); in progressing and stable WMHs, FA decreased (−0.022 [95% CI, −0.027 to −0.017] and −0.009 [95% CI, −0.011 to −0.006]), whereas MD and T1 increased (progressing WMHs, 0.057 [95% CI, 0.050–0.063], 0.058 [95% CI, 0.050 –0.066]; stable WMHs, 0.054 [95% CI, 0.045–0.063], 0.049 [95% CI, 0.039–0.058]); and in stable normal‐appearing white matter, MD increased (0.004 [95% CI, 0.003–0.005]), whereas FA and T1 slightly decreased and increased (−0.002 [95% CI, −0.004 to −0.000] and 0.005 [95% CI, 0.001–0.009]).

Conclusions

Quantitative magnetic resonance imaging shows that WMHs that regress have less abnormal microstructure at baseline than stable WMHs and follow trajectories indicating tissue improvement compared with stable and progressing WMHs.
Thrombolytic Treatment in Wake‐Up Stroke: A Propensity Score–Matched Analysis of Treatment Effectiveness in the Norwegian Stroke Registry
Authors: Søyland Mary‐Helen , Tveiten Arnstein , Eltoft Agnethe , Øygarden Halvor , Varmdal Torunn , Indredavik Bent , Mathiesen Ellisiv B.
Published: January 2024

Background

Previous clinical trials found improved outcome of thrombolytic treatment in patients with ischemic wake‐up stroke (WUS) selected by advanced imaging techniques. The authors assessed the effectiveness of thrombolytic treatment in patients with WUS in a nationwide stroke registry.

Methods and Results

Using propensity score matching, the authors assessed the effectiveness and safety of thrombolytic treatment versus no thrombolytic treatment in 726 patients (363 matched pairs) with WUS in the Norwegian Stroke Registry in 2014 to 2019. Thrombolytic treatment in WUS versus known‐onset stroke was compared in 730 patients (365 matched pairs). Functional outcomes were assessed by the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at 3 months. A significant benefit of thrombolytic treatment in WUS was seen in ordinal analysis (odds ratio [OR], 1.48 [95% CI, 1.15–1.91];
P
=0.003) and for mRS 0 to 2 (OR, 1.81 [95% CI, 1.29–2.52];
P
=0.001) but not for mRS 0 or 1 (OR, 1.32 [95% CI, 1.00–1.74];
P
=0.050). The proportion of patients with mRS 0 or 1 was lower in patients with WUS who underwent thrombolysis versus those with known‐onset stroke (50.4% versus 59.5%; OR, 0.69 [95% CI, 0.52–0.93];
P
=0.013), while outcomes were similar between groups for mRS 0 to 2 and ordinal analysis. Symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage after thrombolytic treatment occurred in 4.4% of patients with WUS and 3.9% of patients with known‐onset stroke (OR, 1.14 [95% CI, 0.54–2.41];
P
=0.726).

Conclusions

Thrombolytic treatment in patients with WUS was associated with improved functional outcome compared with patients with no thrombolytic treatment and was not associated with increased rates of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage compared with known‐onset stroke. The results indicate that thrombolytic treatment is effective and safe in WUS in a real‐life setting.
Leukocyte Telomere Length and Cardiac Structure and Function: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Salih Ahmed M. , Galazzo Ilaria Boscolo , Menegaz Gloria , Altmann André
Published: January 2024

Background

Existing research demonstrates the association of shorter leukocyte telomere length with increased risk of age‐related health outcomes including cardiovascular diseases. However, the direct causality of these relationships has not been definitively established. Cardiovascular aging at an organ level may be captured using image‐derived phenotypes of cardiac anatomy and function.

Methods and Results

In the current study, we use 2‐sample Mendelian randomization to assess the causal link between leukocyte telomere length and 54 cardiac magnetic resonance imaging measures representing structure and function across the 4 cardiac chambers. Genetically predicted shorter leukocyte telomere length was causally linked to smaller ventricular cavity sizes including left ventricular end‐systolic volume, left ventricular end‐diastolic volume, lower left ventricular mass, and pulmonary artery. The association with left ventricular mass (
β
 =0.217, P
false discovery rate
=0.016) remained significant after multiple testing adjustment, whereas other associations were attenuated.

Conclusions

Our findings support a causal role for shorter leukocyte telomere length and faster cardiac aging, with the most prominent relationship with left ventricular mass.
Preliminary Views on Yanxinglu Studies
Authors: Qi Yongxiang
Published: January 2024

“Yanxinglu studies” is a field of study dedicated to the research of Yanxinglu (Kor: Yŏnhaengnok), the travel records of Korean diplomatic envoys to China during the Koryŏ and Chosŏn periods. Yanxinglu should be distinguished from travel records of a more general nature and can be further classified as follows: Yanxinglu writings in a broad or a narrow sense; and Yanxinglu writings with a single or multiple titles. This article investigates a number of pertinent questions such as the concept of Yanxinglu itself, the titles of individual travel accounts, the creation and periodization of Yanxinglu writings, the collection and compilation of primary sources and their translation, the creation of databases, and the search for suitable research methods. This analysis shows that it is time to establish “Yanxinglu studies” as an independent field of study in China and to create a scholarly society to guide and coordinate future research efforts.
The “Riben dao ge” and the Sinosphere
Authors: Jin Chengyu
Published: January 2024

The “Riben dao ge” is a well-known poem in the history of East Asian literary exchanges. The poem was written by Sima Guang during his appointment at the Palace Library, expressing his cultural expectations as well as some satirical remarks about Qian Gongfu. The earliest proponent of the theory that the “Riben dao ge” was written by Sima Guang was the Japanese Meiji-era scholar Kusaka Hiroshi, who influenced Yang Shoujing. From the standpoint of cultural history, the “Riben dao ge” is intimately connected to the Edo-era concept of lost and surviving books; Chosŏn’s goodwill missions, moreover, played a vital role in the dissemination of the poem in Japan. The “Riben dao ge’s” many influences across Japan and Chosŏn demonstrated an interest in the Chinese cultural issue of “searching for lost rituals among the people.”
Synopsis of the New World Blissid Genera (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Lygaeoidea: Blissidae): Redescriptions of Known Genera, Descriptions of Three New Genera, New Synonymies, New Combinations, Notes on Phylogeny, and a Revised Key to the Genera
Authors: Henry Thomas , Dellape Pablo M.
Published: January 2024

In this contribution, we provide diagnoses, redescriptions, and habitus images of the type species of the 23 known genera of New World Blissidae (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Lygaeoidea); and describe three new genera: Brailovskyodemus, new genus to accommodate four species transferred from Extarademus [B. bifida (Slater and Brailovsky, 1990), new combination, and B. indomita (Slater and Brailovsksy, 1995), new combination] and Patritiodemus [B. clavatus (Slater and Ahmad, 1971), new combination (type species); and B. nigellus (Slater and Ahmad, 1971), new combination]; Metafemorademus, new genus, for two species transferred from Extarademus [M. mundus (Slater and Wilcox, 1966), new combination (type species); and E. prunimundus (Slater and Brailovsky, 1990), new combination]; and Prosternademus, new genus, for one species transferred from Extarademus [P. humerus (Slater and Wilcox, 1966), new combination (type species)]. In addition, we synonymize Patritiodemus Slater and Ahmad, new synonymy, with Ischnodemus Fieber, transferring the species with mutic fore femora to Ischnodemus [I. brusai (Dellapé and Montemayor, 2009), revised combination; I. dilutipes Stål, 1860, revised combination; I. minutus (Slater and Ahmad), new combination; I. singularis (Slater and Ahmad, 1971), new combination; and I. unicoloris (Slater and Ahmad, 1971), new combination] and the species with spined fore femora to Extarademus [E. albomaculatus (Slater and Ahmad, 1971), new combination; and E. delicatus (Slater and Wilcox, 1968), new combination]; and transfer five species of Patritius Distant to Riggiella Kormilev [R. alternatus (Slater and Wilcox, 1966), new combination; R. colombianus (Slater and Wilcox, 1966), new combination; R. cubensis (Barber, 1947), new combination; R. englemanni (Slater, 1979b), new combination; and R. osuna (Slater and Brailovsky, 1995), new combination]. Finally, we provide a phylogenetic analysis of the 11 New World genera having closed fore coxal cavities, based on 52 taxa (including outgroup) and 44 characters, resulting in six trees supporting the monophyly of most of the genera, and a revised key to facilitate recognition of the genera.