bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Face Recognition Method under Adaptive Image Matching and Dictionary Learning Algorithm
Authors: Lv Xue , Su Mingxia , Wang Zekun
Published: February 2023

In this research, a robust face recognition method based on adaptive image matching and a dictionary learning algorithm was proposed. A Fisher discriminant constraint was introduced into the dictionary learning algorithm program so that the dictionary had certain category discrimination ability. The purpose was to use this technology to reduce the influence of pollution, absence, and other factors on face recognition and improve the recognition rate. The optimization method was used to solve the loop iteration to obtain the expected specific dictionary, and the selected specific dictionary was used as the representation dictionary in adaptive sparse representation. In addition, if a specific dictionary was placed in a seed space of the original training data, the mapping matrix can be used to represent the mapping relationship between the specific dictionary and the original training sample, and the test sample could be corrected according to the mapping matrix to remove the contamination in the test sample. Moreover, the feature face method and dimension reduction method were used to process the specific dictionary and the corrected test sample, and the dimensions were reduced to 25, 50, 75, 100, 125, and 150, respectively. In this research, the recognition rate of the algorithm in 50 dimensions was lower than that of the discriminatory low‐rank representation method (DLRR), and the recognition rate in other dimensions was the highest. The adaptive image matching classifier was used for classification and recognition. The experimental results showed that the proposed algorithm had a good recognition rate and good robustness against noise, pollution, and occlusion. Health condition prediction based on face recognition technology has the advantages of being noninvasive and convenient operation.
Exploration: Nanoparticles in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Retinal Diseases
Authors: Wang Lingda , Xie Wenxi , Chen Jinquan , Zhao Long , Wen Yan , Xie Hao , Shu Qinxin , Pan Fuying , Lu Jing , Liu Yanyao , Peng Hui
Published: February 2023

In recent years, research on nanoparticles (NPs) has brought a new phase in the development of medicine. The term “NPs” refers to nanoscale particles, typically between 10 and 1,000 nm in size, that are within the range of cellular and molecular structures. Compared with traditional ophthalmic drugs, NPs can carry drugs to overcome obstacles, target drug delivery, prolong drug release, reduce drug toxicity, and can be used in gene therapy. After a brief introduction to the classification of NPs, we will focus on the potential applications of different NPs in the diagnosis and treatment of different retinal diseases and introduce innovative methods derived from NPs.
Hispidin Inhibits Ferroptosis Induced by High Glucose via the miR-15b-5p/GLS2 Axis in Pancreatic Beta Cells
Authors: Wu Fang , Shang Chenxin , Jin Ting , Shi Linhui
Published: February 2023

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a global health issue that lacks effective treatments. Dysfunction and/or death of pancreatic β-cells (PBCs) are considered a major cause of T2DM. Therefore, elucidating the mechanisms underlying the death of PBCs might be helpful to develop novel strategies to treat T2DM. Ferroptosis is a newly identified form of cell death that has distinct features. However, knowledge regarding the role of ferroptosis in the death of PBCs remains limited. In the current study, we used high glucose (10 mM) (HG) levels to induce ferroptosis in PBC. We also observed that hispidin, a polyphenol compound that can be isolated from Phellinus linteus, could attenuate ferroptosis induced by HG in PBCs. Mechanistic investigations showed that hispidin led to the upregulation of miR-15b-5p, which directly inhibits the expression of glutaminase (GLS2) which plays an essential role in the glutamine metabolism. In addition, we found that overexpression of GLS2 could abrogate the protective effect of hispidin against ferroptosis caused by HG in PBCs. Therefore, our study provides novel insights into the mechanisms that regulate the death of PBCs.
The Influence of Transformational Tutor Style on Postgraduate Students’ Innovative Behavior: The Mediating Role of Creative Self-Efficacy
Authors: Ma Yan , Chen Min , Guo Huifen , Fan Wenxiang , Lai Lijie
Published: February 2023

Postgraduates being as the backbone of the innovative talent team, the enhancement of postgraduates’ innovative behavior has become the focus of higher education reform in the new era. Postgraduate students’ innovative behaviors are influenced by multiple factors, and mentorship plays a crucial role in the cultivation of postgraduate students’ innovative behaviors. This study is based on social cognitive theory and empirical analysis from the perspective of individual postgraduate students and mentorship cultivation. Multisource data were obtained from a research team attending a teacher training college in southwest China, and a questionnaire survey was conducted on 362 postgraduate students based on an online approach. The empirical study was conducted using SPSS software and AMOS software combined with hierarchical regression analysis and structural analysis of covariance to examine the mechanism of the effect of transformational tutoring style on postgraduate students’ innovative behavior, using creative self-efficacy as a mediating variable. The results showed that the transformational tutoring style had a significant positive effect on the innovation behavior of postgraduate students, and the creative self-efficacy partially mediated the effect of the transformational tutoring style on the innovation behavior. According to the findings of the study, the creative self-efficacy of postgraduate students is enhanced through the collaboration of “multiple” subjects; the “integrated” cultivation model is built to create a transformative tutor team; a mentoring community is established. The study is aimed at providing a reference for the cultivation of innovation ability of master students.
Bishift Networks for Thick Cloud Removal with Multitemporal Remote Sensing Images
Authors: Long Chaojun , Li Xinghua , Jing Yinghong , Shen Huanfeng
Published: February 2023

Because of the presence of clouds, the available information in optical remote sensing images is greatly reduced. These temporal‐based methods are widely used for cloud removal. However, the temporal differences in multitemporal images have consistently been a challenge for these types of methods. Towards this end, a bishift network (BSN) model is proposed to remove thick clouds from optical remote sensing images. As its name implies, BSN is combined of two dependent shifts. Moment matching (MM) and deep style transfer (DST) are the first shift to preliminarily eliminate temporal differences in multitemporal images. In the second shift, an improved shift net is proposed to reconstruct missing information under cloud covers. It introduces multiscale feature connectivity with shift connections and depthwise separable convolution (DSC), which can capture local details and global semantics effectively. Through experiments with Sentinel‐2 images, it has been demonstrated that the proposed BSN has great advantages over traditional methods and state‐of‐the‐art methods in cloud removal.
Distinct IDH1/2-associated Methylation Profile and Enrichment ofTP53andTERTMutations Distinguish Dedifferentiated Chondrosarcoma from Conventional Chondrosarcoma
Authors: Dermawan Josephine Kam Tai , Nafa Khedoujia , Mohanty Abhinita , Xu Yingjuan , Rijo Ivelise , Casanova Jacklyn , Villafania Liliana , Benhamida Jamal , Kelly Ciara M. , Tap William D. , Boland Patrick J. , Fabbri Nicola , Healey John H. , Ladanyi Marc , Lu Chao , Hameed Meera
Published: February 2023

Dedifferentiated chondrosarcoma (DDCS) is a rare high-grade chondrosarcoma characterized by a well-differentiated chondrosarcoma (WDCS) component that abruptly transitions to a high-grade, noncartilaginous sarcomatous component. To date, the molecular pathogenesis of DDCS and its distinction from conventional chondrosarcoma remain poorly understood. By targeted sequencing, we examined the mutational and copy-number profiles of 18 DDCS, including macrodissected WDCS components, compared with 55 clinically sequenced conventional chondrosarcomas. In conjunction with publicly available external data, we analyzed the methylation and expression profiles of 34 DDCS and 94 conventional chondrosarcomas. Isocitrate dehydrogenase 1/isocitrate dehydrogenase 2 (IDH1/IDH2) mutations were present in 36% conventional chondrosarcomas and 71% DDCS. Compared with conventional chondrosarcomas, DDCS had higher frequencies of TP53 and TERT promoter mutations and CDKN2A/B copy-number losses. Paired analysis of macrodissected WDCS and the high-grade components revealed TERT promoter mutations as early events. Despite phenotypic similarities, the percentage of genome with copy-number alterations in DDCS was significantly lower than that in other high-grade sarcomas. Differential methylation analysis revealed reduction of IDH1/IDH2-associated global hypermethylation characteristically seen in conventional chondrosarcoma and a distinct methylation profile in DDCS. The WDCS and high-grade components in DDCS showed similar methylation profiles. These CpG sites were associated with upregulated expression of genes involved in G2–M checkpoints and E2F targets. Genomic profiling revealed enrichment of TP53, TERT promoter, and CDKN2A/B alterations in DDCS. Integrated methylation and gene expression analysis revealed distinct IDH1/IDH2-associated methylation and transcriptional profiles as early events in DDCS, which may underlie the pathogenesis of dedifferentiation in chondrosarcomas.

Significance:

DDCS is a rare, high-grade chondrosarcoma with a dismal prognosis. About 50%–80% of DDCS harbor IDH1/IDH2 mutations. We uncover a significant alteration of IDH-associated methylation profile in DDCS, which we propose is key to the progression to dedifferentiation. In this context, the potential effect of the use of IDH inhibitors is unclear but important to address, as clinical trials of selective IDH1 inhibitors showed worse outcome in DDCS.
Success Rate and Long-Term Effects of Embolization of Pelvic Arteries for the Treatment of Postpartum Hemorrhage
Authors: Kapfhammer Elisabeth , Pfammatter Thomas , Brun Romana , Zimmermann Roland , Haslinger Christian
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is the leading cause of peripartal maternal mortality and accounts for 25% of all maternal deaths worldwide. The most common reasons of PPH are uterine atony, retained placenta, or placenta accreta spectrum. Treatment of PPH depends on the etiology and corresponds to a stepwise approach, which follows the German, Austrian and Swiss guideline for the diagnosis and therapy of PPH in Switzerland. In severe ongoing PPH, hysterectomy has been the ultima ratio for many decades. Nowadays, interventional embolization of the pelvic arteries (PAE) has become a popular alternative. Besides being a highly effective minimally invasive method, PAE avoids hysterectomy with consecutively reduced morbidity and mortality. However, data on the long-term effects of PAE on fertility and menstrual cycle are scarce. Methods: We performed a monocentric study consisting of a retro- and a prospective part including all women who had undergone a PAE between 2012 and 2016 at University Hospital Zurich. Descriptive characteristics of patients and efficacy of PAE defined as cessation of bleeding were analyzed retrospectively. In the prospective part, all patients were contacted for a follow-up questionnaire regarding menstruation and fertility after embolization. Results: Twenty patients with PAE were evaluated. Our data showed a success rate of PAE in 95% of patients with PPH; only 1 patient needed a second, then successful, PAE. No patient needed a hysterectomy or any other surgical intervention. In our study, an association between mode of delivery and identified etiology of PPH is observed. After spontaneous delivery (n = 6), the main reason of severe PPH was retained placenta (n = 4), while after cesarean section (n = 14), uterine atony was identified in most cases (n = 8). Regarding menstruation after embolization, all women reported regular menstruation after the breastfeeding period (100%). The majority reported a regular pattern with a shorter or similar duration (73%) and lower or similar intensity (64%). Dysmenorrhea decreased in 67% of patients. Four patients planned another pregnancy, of whom only one had become pregnant with assisted reproductive technology and ended up in a miscarriage. Discussion: Our study confirms the efficacy of PAE in PPH, thus obviating complex surgical interventions and associated morbidity. The success of PAE does not depend on the primary cause of PPH. Our results may encourage the prompt decision to perform PAE in the management of severe PPH in case of failure of conservative management and help physicians in the post-interventional counseling regarding menstruation patterns and fertility.
Light Chain Deposition Disease Recurrence in Renal Allograft after Long-Term Remission
Authors: Kobayashi Azusa , Takeda Asami , Shinjo Hibiki , Iguchi Daiki , Ito Chiharu , Okada Eriko , Goto Norihiko , Futamura Kenta , Okada Manabu , Hiramitsu Takahisa , Narumi Syunji , Watarai Yoshihiko
Published: February 2023

Light chain deposition disease (LCDD) is a rare manifestation of monoclonal gammopathy, which can lead to renal failure. We previously reported a detailed recurrence process in a case of LCDD after renal transplantation. To the best of our knowledge, no report has described the long-term clinical course and renal pathology findings of recurrent LCDD in patients after renal transplantation. In this case report, we describe the long-term clinical presentation and changes in renal pathology of the same patient after early LCDD relapse in a renal allograft. A 54-year-old woman with recurrent immunoglobulin A λ-type LCDD in an allograft was admitted 1 year post-transplant for bortezomib and dexamethasone therapy. At 2 years post-transplantation, a graft biopsy performed after complete remission was achieved, showing some glomeruli with residual nodular lesions similar to the pre-treatment renal biopsy findings. However, the enlarged subendothelial space disappeared. She remained in complete remission serologically for 6 years. Subsequently, the ratio of serum κ/λ-free light chains decreased gradually. She underwent a transplant biopsy approximately 12 years after renal transplantation due to increased proteinuria and decreased renal function. Compared with the previous graft biopsy, almost all glomeruli showed advanced nodule formation and subendothelial expansion. Because the LCDD case relapsed after long-term remission following renal transplantation, protocol biopsy monitoring might be necessary.
Genetic Risk of Primary Aldosteronism and Its Contribution to Hypertension: A Cross-Ancestry Meta-Analysis of Genome-Wide Association Studies
Authors: Naito Tatsuhiko , Inoue Kosuke , Sonehara Kyuto , Baba Ryuta , Kodama Takaya , Otagaki Yu , Okada Akira , Itcho Kiyotaka , Kobuke Kazuhiro , Kishimoto Shinji , Yamamoto Kenichi ,   BioBank Japan, Morisaki Takayuki , Higashi Yukihito , Hinata Nobuyuki , Arihiro Koji , Hattori Noboru , Okada Yukinori , Oki Kenji
Published: February 2023

Background:

Hypertension imposes substantial health and economic burden worldwide. Primary aldosteronism (PA) is one of the most common causes of secondary hypertension, causing cardiovascular events at higher risk compared with essential hypertension. However, the germline genetic contribution to the susceptibility of PA has not been well elucidated.

Method:

We conducted a genome-wide association analysis of PA in the Japanese population and a cross-ancestry meta-analysis combined with UK Biobank and FinnGen cohorts (816 PA cases and 425 239 controls) to identify genetic variants that contribute to PA susceptibility. We also performed a comparative analysis for the risk of 42 previously established blood pressure–associated variants between PA and hypertension with the adjustment of blood pressure.

Results:

In the Japanese genome-wide association study, we identified 10 loci that presented suggestive evidence for the association with the PA risk (
P
<1.0×10
−6
). In the meta-analysis, we identified 5 genome-wide significant loci (1p13, 7p15, 11p15, 12q24, and 13q12;
P
<5.0×10
−8
), including 3 of the suggested loci in the Japanese genome-wide association study. The strongest association was observed at rs3790604 (1p13), an intronic variant of
WNT2B
(odds ratio, 1.50 [95% CI, 1.33−1.69];
P
=5.2×10
−11
). We further identified 1 nearly genome-wide significant locus (8q24,
CYP11B2
), which presented a significant association in the gene-based test (
P
=7.2×10
−7
). Of interest, all of these loci were known to be associated with blood pressure in previous studies, presumably because of the prevalence of PA among individuals with hypertension. This assumption was supported by the observation that they had a significantly higher risk effect on PA than on hypertension. We also revealed that 66.7% of the previously established blood pressure–associated variants had a higher risk effect for PA than for hypertension.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrates the genome-wide evidence for a genetic predisposition to PA susceptibility in the cross-ancestry cohorts and its significant contribution to the genetic background of hypertension. The strongest association with the
WNT2B
variants reinforces the implication of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in the PA pathogenesis.
Krüppel‐Like Factors Orchestrate Endothelial Gene Expression Through Redundant and Non‐Redundant Enhancer Networks
Authors: Sweet David R. , Padmanabhan Roshan , Liao Xudong , Dashora Himanshu R. , Tang Xinmiao , Nayak Lalitha , Jain Rajan , De Val Sarah , Vinayachandran Vinesh , Jain Mukesh K.
Published: February 2023

Background

Proper function of endothelial cells is critical for vascular integrity and organismal survival. Studies over the past 2 decades have identified 2 members of the KLF (Krüppel‐like factor) family of proteins, KLF2 and KLF4, as nodal regulators of endothelial function. Strikingly, inducible postnatal deletion of both KLF2 and KLF4 resulted in widespread vascular leak, coagulopathy, and rapid death. Importantly, while transcriptomic studies revealed profound alterations in gene expression, the molecular mechanisms underlying these changes remain poorly understood. Here, we seek to determine mechanisms of KLF2 and KLF4 transcriptional control in multiple vascular beds to further understand their roles as critical endothelial regulators.

Methods and Results

We integrate chromatin occupancy and transcription studies from multiple transgenic mouse models to demonstrate that KLF2 and KLF4 have overlapping yet distinct binding patterns and transcriptional targets in heart and lung endothelium. Mechanistically, KLFs use open chromatin regions in promoters and enhancers and bind in context‐specific patterns that govern transcription in microvasculature. Importantly, this occurs during homeostasis in vivo without additional exogenous stimuli.

Conclusions

Together, this work provides mechanistic insight behind the well‐described transcriptional and functional heterogeneity seen in vascular populations, while also establishing tools into exploring microvascular endothelial dynamics in vivo.
Impact of Concomitant Mitral Regurgitation on the Hemodynamic Indicators of Aortic Stenosis
Authors: Šeman Michael , Stephens Andrew F. , Walton Antony , Duffy Stephen J. , McGiffin David , Nanayakkara Shane , Kaye David M. , Gregory Shaun D. , Stub Dion
Published: February 2023

Background

In patients with aortic stenosis (AS), the presence of mitral regurgitation (MR) can lead to underestimation of AS severity and worse clinical outcomes. The objective of this study was to characterize the magnitude of the effects of concomitant MR on hemodynamic indicators of AS severity using clinical data and a computational cardiovascular simulation.

Methods and Results

Echocardiographic data from 1427 patients with severe AS were used to inform a computational cardiovascular system model, and varying degrees of MR and AS were simulated. Hemodynamic data, including left ventricular and aortic pressure waveforms, were generated for all simulations. Simulated reduction in mean transaortic pressure gradient (MPG) associated with MR was then used to calculate the adjusted MPG in the clinical cohort. MR was present in 861 (60%) patients. Compared with patients without MR, patients with MR had a lower aortic‐valve area (0.83±0.2 cm
2
versus 0.75±0.2;
P
<0.001) and were more likely to have a low‐gradient pattern (MPG <40 mm Hg) (45% versus 54%;
P
<0.001). Simulations showed that the presence of concomitant mild, moderate, and severe MR with AS was accompanied by a mean reduction in MPG of 10%, 29%, and 40%, respectively. For patients with MR, their calculated adjusted MPG was on average 24% higher than their MPG (52±22 versus 42±16 mm Hg). Of the 467 patients with low‐gradient AS and MR, 240 (51%) would reclassify as high gradient based on their adjusted MPG.

Conclusions

Concomitant MR results in lower MPG and reduced forward flow compared with isolated AS. Careful quantitation of MR should be factored into the assessment of AS severity to mitigate for potential underestimation.
Examining the Real‐Life Journey of Individuals and Families Affected by Single‐Ventricle Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Mery Carlos M. , Well Andrew , Taylor Kate , Carberry Kathleen , Colucci José , Ulack Christopher , Zeiner Adam , Mizrahi Michelle , Stewart Eileen , Dillingham Christine , Cook Taylor , Hartounian Arotin , McCullum Elizabeth , Affolter Jeremy T. , Van Diest Heather , Lamari‐Fisher Alexandra , Chang Stacey , Wallace Scott , Teisberg Elizabeth , Fraser Charles D.
Published: February 2023

Background

The lifetime journey of patients with single‐ventricle congenital heart disease is characterized by long‐term challenges that are incompletely understood and still unfolding. Health care redesign requires a thorough understanding of this journey to create and implement solutions that improve outcomes. This study maps the lifetime journey of individuals with single‐ventricle congenital heart disease and their families, identifies the most meaningful outcomes to them, and defines significant challenges in the journey.

Methods and Results

This qualitative research study involved experience group sessions and 1:1 interviews of patients, parents, siblings, partners, and stakeholders. Journey maps were created. The most meaningful outcomes to patients and parents and significant gaps in care were identified across the life journey.

A total of 142 participants from 79 families and 28 stakeholders were included. Lifelong and life‐stage specific journey maps were created. The most meaningful outcomes to patients and parents were identified and categorized using a “
capability (doing the things in life you want to), comfort (experience of physical/emotional pain/distress), and calm (experiencing health care with the least impact on daily life)
” framework. Gaps in care were identified and classified into areas of ineffective communication, lack of seamless transitions, lack of comprehensive support, structural deficiencies, and insufficient education.

Conclusions

There are significant gaps in care during the lifelong journey of individuals with single‐ventricle congenital heart disease and their families. A thorough understanding of this journey is a critical first step in developing initiatives to redesign care around their needs and priorities. This approach can be used for people with other forms of congenital heart disease and other chronic conditions.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT04613934.
Impact of Reperfusion on Temporal Immune Cell Dynamics After Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Zhang Richard Ying Ke , Cochran Blake J. , Thomas Shane R. , Rye Kerry‐Anne
Published: February 2023

Excessive inflammation and impaired healing of cardiac tissue following a myocardial infarction (MI) can drive the development of heart failure. Cardiac repair begins immediately after the onset of MI and continues for months. The repair process can be divided into the following 3 overlapping phases, each having distinct functions and sequelae: the inflammatory phase, the proliferative phase, and the maturation phase. Macrophages, neutrophils, and lymphocytes are present in the myocardium throughout the repair process and govern the duration and function of each of these phases. However, changes in the functions of these cell types across each phase are poorly characterized. Numerous immunomodulatory therapies that specifically target inflammation have been developed for promoting cardiac repair and preventing heart failure after MI. However, these treatments have been largely unsuccessful in large‐scale clinical randomized controlled trials. A potential explanation for this failure is the lack of a thorough understanding of the time‐dependent evolution of the functions of immune cells after a major cardiovascular event. Failure to account for this temporal plasticity in cell function may reduce the efficacy of immunomodulatory approaches that target cardiac repair. This review is concerned with how the functions of different immune cells change with time following an MI. Improved understanding of the temporal changes in immune cell function is important for the future development of effective and targeted treatments for preventing heart failure after MI.
High Burden of Premature Ventricular Complex Increases the Risk of New‐Onset Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Lee Po‐Tseng , Huang Mu‐Hsian , Huang Ting‐Chung , Hsu Chi‐Hui , Lin Sheng‐Hsian , Liu Ping‐Yen
Published: February 2023

Background

High burden of premature ventricular complex (PVC) leads to increased cardiovascular mortality. A recent nationwide population‐based study demonstrated that PVC is associated with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation (AF). However, the relationship between PVC burden and new‐onset AF has not been investigated. The purpose of the study is to elucidate whether PVC burden is associated with new‐onset AF.

Methods and Results

We designed a single‐center, retrospective, large population‐based cohort study to evaluate the role of PVC burden and new‐onset AF in Taiwan. Patients who were AF naïve with PVC were divided into the low burden group (<1000/day) and moderate‐to‐high burden group (≥1000/day) based on the 24‐h Holter ECG report. New‐onset AF was defined as a new or first detectable event of either a persistent or paroxysmal AF. A total of 16 030 patients who were AF naïve and underwent 24‐h Holter ECG monitoring were enrolled in this study, with a mean follow‐up time of 973 days. A propensity score‐matched analysis demonstrated that the moderate‐to‐high burden PVC group had a higher risk of developing new‐onset AF than that of the low burden PVC group (4.91% versus 2.73%,
P
<0.001). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that moderate‐to‐high burden of PVC is an independent risk factor for new‐onset AF. The Kaplan–Meier analysis demonstrated that patients with moderate‐to‐high PVC burden were associated with higher risk of new‐onset AF (log‐rank
P
<0.001).

Conclusions

PVC burden is associated with new‐onset AF. Patients with moderate‐to‐high PVC burden are at a higher risk of new‐onset AF.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT03877614.
Social Determinants, Cardiovascular Disease, and Health Care Cost: A Nationwide Study in the United States Using Machine Learning
Authors: Sun Feinuo , Yao Jie , Du Shichao , Qian Feng , Appleton Allison A. , Tao Cui , Xu Hua , Liu Lei , Dai Qi , Joyce Brian T. , Nannini Drew R. , Hou Lifang , Zhang Kai
Published: February 2023

Background

Existing studies on cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) often focus on individual‐level behavioral risk factors, but research examining social determinants is limited. This study applies a novel machine learning approach to identify the key predictors of county‐level care costs and prevalence of CVDs (including atrial fibrillation, acute myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, and ischemic heart disease).

Methods and Results

We applied the extreme gradient boosting machine learning approach to a total of 3137 counties. Data are from the
Interactive Atlas of Heart Disease and Stroke
and a variety of national data sets. We found that although demographic composition (eg, percentages of Black people and older adults) and risk factors (eg, smoking and physical inactivity) are among the most important predictors for inpatient care costs and CVD prevalence, contextual factors such as social vulnerability and racial and ethnic segregation are particularly important for the total and outpatient care costs. Poverty and income inequality are the major contributors to the total care costs for counties that are in nonmetro areas or have high segregation or social vulnerability levels. Racial and ethnic segregation is particularly important in shaping the total care costs for counties with low poverty rates or social vulnerability level. Demographic composition, education, and social vulnerability are consistently important across different scenarios.

Conclusions

The findings highlight the differences in predictors for different types of CVD cost outcomes and the importance of social determinants. Interventions directed toward areas that have been economically and socially marginalized may aid in reducing the impact of CVDs.
Collagen‐Specific HSP47
+
Myofibroblasts and CD163
+
Macrophages Identify Profibrotic Phenotypes in Deceased Hearts With SARS‐CoV‐2 Infections
Authors: Puzyrenko Andrii , Jacobs Elizabeth R. , Padilla Nathan , Devine Adam , Aljadah Michael , Gantner Benjamin N. , Pan Amy Y. , Lai Shuping , Dai Qiang , Rubenstein Jason C. , North Paula E. , Simpson Pippa M. , Willoughby Rodney E. , O'Meara Caitlin C. , Flinn Michael A. , Lough John W. , Ibrahim El‐Sayed H. , Zheng Ze , Sun Yunguang , Felix Juan , Hunt Bryan C. , Ross Gracious , Rui Hallgeir , Benjamin Ivor J.
Published: February 2023

Background

Cardiac fibrosis complicates SARS‐CoV‐2 infections and has been linked to arrhythmic complications in survivors. Accordingly, we sought evidence of increased HSP47 (heat shock protein 47), a stress‐inducible chaperone protein that regulates biosynthesis and secretion of procollagen in heart tissue, with the goal of elucidating molecular mechanisms underlying cardiac fibrosis in subjects with this viral infection.

Methods and Results

Using human autopsy tissue, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry, we quantified Hsp47
+
cells and collagen α 1(l) in hearts from people with SARS‐CoV‐2 infections. Because macrophages are also linked to inflammation, we measured CD163
+
cells in the same tissues. We observed irregular groups of spindle‐shaped HSP47
+
and CD163
+
cells as well as increased collagen α 1(I) deposition, each proximate to one another in “hot spots” of ≈40% of hearts after SARS‐CoV‐2 infection (HSP47
+
P
<0.05 versus nonfibrotics and
P
<0.001 versus controls). Because HSP47
+
cells are consistent with myofibroblasts, subjects with hot spots are termed “profibrotic.” The remaining 60% of subjects dying with COVID‐19 without hot spots are referred to as “nonfibrotic.” No control subject exhibited hot spots.

Conclusions

Colocalization of myofibroblasts, M2(CD163
+
) macrophages, and collagen α 1(l) may be the first evidence of a COVID‐19–related “profibrotic phenotype” in human hearts in situ. The potential public health and diagnostic implications of these observations require follow‐up to further define mechanisms of viral‐mediated cardiac fibrosis.
Consonance Perception in Congenital Amusia: Behavioral and Brain Responses to Harmonicity and Beating Cues
Authors: Graves Jackson E. , Pralus Agathe , Fornoni Lesly , Oxenham Andrew J. , Tillmann Barbara , Caclin Anne
Published: February 2023

Congenital amusia is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulties in the perception and production of music, including the perception of consonance and dissonance, or the judgment of certain combinations of pitches as more pleasant than others. Two perceptual cues for dissonance are inharmonicity (the lack of a common fundamental frequency between components) and beating (amplitude fluctuations produced by close, interacting frequency components). Amusic individuals have previously been reported to be insensitive to inharmonicity, but to exhibit normal sensitivity to beats. In the present study, we measured adaptive discrimination thresholds in amusic participants and found elevated thresholds for both cues. We recorded EEG and measured the MMN in evoked potentials to consonance and dissonance deviants in an oddball paradigm. The amplitude of the MMN response was similar overall for amusic and control participants; however, in controls, there was a tendency toward larger MMNs for inharmonicity than for beating cues, whereas the opposite tendency was observed for the amusic participants. These findings suggest that initial encoding of consonance cues may be intact in amusia despite impaired behavioral performance, but that the relative weight of nonspectral (beating) cues may be increased for amusic individuals.
Behavioral and Neural Trajectories of Risk Taking for Peer and Parent in Adolescence
Authors: Kwon Seh-Joo , Flannery Jessica E. , Turpyn Caitlin C. , Prinstein Mitchell J. , Lindquist Kristen A. , Telzer Eva H.
Published: February 2023

One feature of adolescence is a rise in risk-taking behaviors, whereby the consequences of adolescents' risky action often impact their immediate surrounding such as their peers and parents (vicarious risk taking). Yet, little is known about how vicarious risk taking develops, particularly depending on who the risk affects and the type of risky behavior. In a 3-wave longitudinal fMRI study, 173 adolescents completed 1–3 years of a risky decision-making task where they took risks to win money for their best friend and parent (n with behavioral and fMRI data ranges from 139–144 and 100–116 participants, respectively, per wave). Results of this preregistered study suggest that adolescents did not differentially take adaptive (sensitivity to the expected value of reward during risk taking) and general (decision-making when the expected values of risk taking and staying safe are equivalent) risks for their best friend and parent from sixth to ninth grade. At the neural level, preregistered ROI analyses revealed no differences in the ventral striatum and ventromedial pFC during general nor adaptive risk taking for best friend versus parent over time. Furthermore, exploratory longitudinal whole-brain analyses revealed subthreshold differences between best friend and parent trajectories within regulatory regions during general vicarious risk taking and social-cognitive regions during adaptive vicarious risk taking. Our findings demonstrate that brain regions implicated in cognitive control and social-cognitive processes may distinguish behaviors involving peers and parents over time.
Heading Direction Tracks Internally Directed Selective Attention in Visual Working Memory
Authors: Thom Jude L. , Nobre Anna C. , van Ede Freek , Draschkow Dejan
Published: February 2023

We shift our gaze even when we orient attention internally to visual representations in working memory. Here, we show the bodily orienting response associated with internal selective attention is widespread as it also includes the head. In three virtual reality experiments, participants remembered 2 visual items. After a working memory delay, a central color cue indicated which item needed to be reproduced from memory. After the cue, head movements became biased in the direction of the memorized location of the cued memory item—despite there being no items to orient toward in the external environment. The heading-direction bias had a distinct temporal profile from the gaze bias. Our findings reveal that directing attention within the spatial layout of visual working memory bears a strong relation to the overt head orienting response we engage when directing attention to sensory information in the external environment. The heading-direction bias further demonstrates common neural circuitry is engaged during external and internal orienting of attention.
First record of Parasquilla ferussaci (Roux, 1828) (Stomatopoda, Parasquillidae) in the Adriatic Sea with notes on its morphology and molecular identification
Authors: Dulčić Jakov , Dragičević Branko , Kirinčić Marin , Ugarković Pero , Žužul Iva , Šegvić-Bubić Tanja
Published: February 2023

The first record of the little known stomatopod Parasquilla ferussaci (Roux, 1828) in the Adriatic Sea is documented. One specimen was captured near islet Blitvenica in the eastern Adriatic (Croatian coast) on 26 January 2021 with a bottom trawl. This record indicates the extension of the known distributional range of this species in the Mediterranean Sea. Here we also provide the first data on the molecular identification of Parasquilla ferussaci supported by the detailed morphological description of the investigated specimen. Parasquilla is derived as a sister group to Faughnia, which together are sister to the genus Pseudosquillopsis.
Notes on the type of Abyssotheres abyssicola (Alcock & Anderson, 1899), and a new record of A. acesticola Komatsu & Ohtsuka, 2009 (Brachyura, Pinnotheridae), from the South China Sea
Authors: Shih Yi-Jia , Mitra Santanu , Ng Peter K. L.
Published: February 2023

The type species of Abyssotheres Manning & Galil, 2000, Pinnoteres abyssicola Alcock & Anderson, 1899, was re-examined to ascertain the veracity of several character states which had been used by the original authors to establish the genus. Komatsu & Ohtsuka (2009) had questioned whether the palp of the third maxilliped only had two articles, with the dactylus absent as reported by Manning & Galil (2000). The type female of the species actually has a dactylus on the third maxilliped palp. In addition, despite earlier statements that the first and second ambulatory legs have the longest dactyli, this is not the case, with the second and third legs possessing the longest dactyli. In addition, A. acesticola Komatsu & Ohtsuka, 2009, is here reported from Tungsha Island in the South China Sea, for the first time.
A new species of Paraphoxus (Amphipoda, Phoxocephalidae) from Jeju Island, Korea
Authors: Shin Myung-Hwa
Published: February 2023

During a scientific survey, a new species of phoxocepalid amphipod, Paraphoxus jejuensis sp. nov., was found in the tidal flat of Jeju Island, Korea. Paraphoxus jejuensis sp. nov. is distinguished from its congeneric species by the following features: the presence of a conical-form of incisor on the right mandible, an expanded and subovate basis of pereopod 5, the presence of a single plumose facial seta on epimeron 2, the presence of a few baso-facial setae on the peduncle of uropod 1, the absence of marginal spines and setae on the rami of uropod 2, and the presence of two subapical spines on each lobe of the telson. This new species is described and illustrated herein.
Review of the pilumnid crab genus Lophoplax Tesch, 1918 from the western Pacific, with descriptions of two new species, and the clarification of the identity of Pseudocryptocoeloma parvus Ward, 1936 (Crustacea: Brachyura)
Authors: NG PETER K. L. , RAHAYU DWI LISTYO
Published: February 2023

The taxonomy of the pilumnid crab genus Lophoplax Tesch, 1918, is discussed. Lophoplax sculpta Stimpson, 1858) is redescribed and a neotype is selected in the interests of nomenclatural stability. Two new species allied to L. sculpta are described: L. sordida n. sp. from Indonesia, and L. pannosa n. sp. from Vanuatu. Pilumnus vermiculatus A. Milne-Edwards, 1873, is here transferred to Lophoplax. The poorly known Pseudocryptocoeloma parvus Ward, 1936 (type species of Pseudocryptocoeloma Ward, 1936), known only from Australia thus far, is redescribed and figured; and Pseudocryptocoeloma symmetrinudum Edmondson, 1951 (from Samoa and Japan), is transferred to Lophoplax.
A new species of the congrid eel genus Conger (Anguilliformes: Congridae) from the southwest coast of India
Authors: KODEESWARAN PARAMASIVAM , SMITH DAVID. G. , DEEPA DHAS D. S  , KUMAR T. T. AJITH , LAL KULDEEP KUMAR
Published: February 2023

A new species of Conger eel is described from a single specimen (569 mm total length) collected off Kanyakumari, Southwest coast of India, Arabian Sea. The following characters distinguish the new species from other congeners: dorsal-fin origin behind the pectoral-fin tip; head larger, 18.5% TL; longer predorsal length 24.0% TL; relatively shorter trunk, uniserial teeth at the posterior end of vomerine patch; body blackish to dark brown; pectoral fin completely darker; cephalic pores rim whitish; SO pores 3; IO pores 6; pectoral rays 19; total vertebrae 141+. Genetic analysis of the mitochondrial COI gene revealed that the new species is closely related to Conger verreauxi Kaup, 1856 and Conger macrocephalus Kanazawa, 1958, with a genetic divergence of 5.7% and 5.9% respectively.
The Role of β-Estradiol in Expression of Protective Neuronal Factors of TGFbeta1, TGFbeta2 and Brain Derived Neurotrophin Factor in Cultured Astrocytes
Authors: Bai Jianbing , Zhou Shanshan , Pirouzi Aliyar , Foruozandeh Hossein
Published: February 2023

Background: Astrocytes are an important source for the production and release of different cytokines, and their role in the development of neurodegenerative diseases is evident. In the neurodegenerative diseases there are significant changes in these cytokines. For this purpose,
the effects of β-estradiol on neuronal protective factors: TGFβ1, TGFβ2 and BDNF were investigated. Methods: In this study, astrocytes from cortex of four newborn rats were isolated and cultivated in cell culture medium. Then their identity confirmed
by microscopy and immunocytochemistry. The effect of three different concentrations of β-estradiol (2, 5 and 10 nM) on the expression of selected genes was investigated by Real Time-PCR, also MTT assay was used to evaluate cell viability. Results: In proportion to the increase
of β-estradiol concentration, the expression of selective genes changed from 3 to 8 times in comparison to control cells. In addition, by increasing the concentration of β-estradiol, cells exhibited more cellular viability than control cells which was proportional to
drug concentration. During neurodegenerative diseases the level of different neuroprotective factors, including the factors selected in this study decreases dramatically. Conclusion: Therefore, increasing the expression of these neuroprotective agents by β-estradiol or other
substances may reduce some of the damage associated with astrocytes and prevent disease progression.
Heliconia rostrata Extract Mediated Synthesis of GNPs and Their Anti-Diabetic and Wound Healing Properties for Applications in Diabetic Wound Care
Authors: Wei Liu , Jarubula Ramu
Published: February 2023

Herein, we reported a novel application of the aqueous extract of Heliconia rostrata leaves to fabricate gold nanoparticles (GNPs) by the deoxygenation of Tetrachloroaurate (AuCl−4) ions. The phyto-chemicals existing in the leaf extract acted as a potential capping
and reducing agents. The obtained GNPs were studied with the help of various characterization techniques like X-RD, TEM and UV-Vis spectroscopy. TEM analysis displayed that the fabricated GNPs were of different sizes and shapes ranges existed from 8–15 nm. High-resolution TEM and SAED
images indicated high crystallinity and FCC phase of the NPs. The XRD analysis pattern displayed a (1 1 1) preferred orientation of GNPs. FTIR spectroscopy measurements displayed GNPs with a layer of phenolic compounds, suggesting a probable role of biomolecules accountable for capping and
effective stabilization of GNPs. α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory assays were used to evaluate antidiabetic efficacy. The IC50 values for the α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities of Au NPs were 221 and 290 μg/ml, correspondingly.
The IC50 value for the enzymatic assay validated the impact dose-dependently. Wound healing studies revealed that GNPs demonstrated a 99% wound closure after 5 days. As per PCR findings, the expression of CD-4 and NANOG was much higher in NPs treated wound tissues than in untreated ones. All
these results revealed that prepared NPs exhibited good anti diabetic and wound healing activity in wound care.
Digital Distance in Times of Physical Distancing: ICT Infrastructure and Use in Long-Term Care Facilities
Authors: Seifert Alexander , Cotten Shelia R.
Published: February 2023

Although information and communication technologies (ICTs) such as smartphones, tablets, and the internet have all become increasingly important during the COVID-19 pandemic, we often forget that not everyone has access to the internet or uses ICT devices. Individuals on the wrong side of the digital divide are often older adults living in long-term care facilities (LTCFs), such as “old–old” adults, who often have various functional impairments. To shed light on the initial situation shortly before the pandemic, three data sources from Switzerland were used in this study to answer the following questions: (1) Do older adults want to have internet access if and/or when they move into a LTCF? (2) What form does ICT use take (specifically internet, smartphone, and tablet use) among LTCF residents, and what need do they have for ICT support? (3) What is the state of LTCFs’ ICT infrastructure and residents’ level of involvement in the decision-making process related to acquiring new technologies? Community-dwelling older adults in this study reported a desire to have internet access when moving into LTCFs, and 21% of LTCF residents reported using the internet just before the pandemic began. Internet access and ICT infrastructure in LTCFs, in general, are both limited, however, and LTCF managers seldom involve older adults in the ICT decision-making process. While modern ICT usage has reached the long-term care sector, the results of this study show that compensating for a lack of physical social contacts by relying on digital solutions during the COVID-19 pandemic cannot be the sole solution. The current pandemic has reminded us that a digital gap exists and that non-use of ICTs during the pandemic can produce additional feelings of social isolation.
Lower Extremity Sandblast Injury: A Rarely Seen Injury Mechanism in the Civilian Population
Authors: Archer Allen D. , Horsley Neil B. , Lawson Christy M. , Burns J. Bracken
Published: February 2023

Blast injuries are both complex and rare in the civilian population. This combination can often lead to missed opportunities for early, effective intervention. This is a case report of a 31-year-old male who suffered a lower extremity blast injury while using an industrial sandblaster. This blast injury presented as a closed degloving, or Morel-Lavallee lesion, which can easily be mistreated and lead to infection and further disability. Following assessment, identification, and confirmation of the Morel-Lavallee lesion via radiographic imaging, this patient underwent debridement surgery, wound vac therapy, and antibiotic treatment before being discharged home with no major physiologic or neurologic deficits. The purpose of this report is to highlight the importance of assessing for closed degloving injuries when presented with blast injury traumas in the civilian trauma setting, and outlines the process utilized for assessment and treatment.