bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding patterns and pathways of exotic perennial grass invasion in South‐eastern Australian grassy communities
Authors: Rayment Julia , French Kris , Bedward Michael
Published: March 2022

Aim

Exotic perennial grasses (EPGs) are significant invaders of native grassy communities. We sought to determine how the profile of invading perennial grasses varies among different climatic regions and different grassy communities, to understand at which scale management is best undertaken. We investigated whether invader occurrence was related to specific plant traits.

Location

New South Wales, Australia.

Method

Field surveys of EPGs at 139 sites from nine grassy communities across four regions were assessed for variation in invasion profiles amongst regions and communities. We used a ranking of invasion risk based on plant characteristics to identify grasses likely to be more invasive and tested whether this ranking predicted the level of invasion in the survey.

Results

Using multivariate analysis, we found that all communities were significantly invaded. These assemblages were distinct regionally, and for most plant communities. Five widespread invaders were established in all regions and communities. Invasion by pasture grasses (termed trade‐off species) was the most significant threat, coupled with capacity to develop long‐term seed banks and use allelopathy. Species with higher risk rankings were recorded in more sites, although a few grasses had much greater occurrences than their ranking predicted.

Conclusions

Grassy communities across all regions were invaded by a suite of EPGs, some that have not been considered as problematic previously. Higher levels of invasion were associated with higher ranked species based on plant traits, indicating that our risk assessment is valuable as a management prioritization tool. Findings support community level management, although some species are important widespread invaders and could be managed at larger scales. Differences in species assemblages compared to nearby agricultural areas confirm different invasion pathways, with significant invasion from pasture grasses. Aided by the risk assessment tool, we propose that EPG management in native communities considers the climatic, community (including surrounding) and species level for prioritization.
Direct oral anticoagulants versus warfarin in patients with single antibody‐positive anti‐phospholipid syndrome
Authors: Liu Angela , Rupani Karishma Vijay , Naymagon Leonard
Published: March 2022

Background

The role of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) among patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APLS) remains unclear. Warfarin has been shown to be superior to DOACs among high‐risk APLS patients (particularly those with triple‐positive APLS). However, it remains unknown whether DOACs may be appropriate for lower‐risk patients such as those with single‐positive APLS.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study comparing the risk of recurrent thrombosis among single‐positive APLS patients treated with DOACs (apixaban or rivaroxaban), and those treated with warfarin.

Results

One‐hundred‐forty‐three single‐positive APLS patients, newly started on anticoagulation following a first thrombotic event, were included. Median follow‐up was 54 months (IQR 29–73 months). Ninety‐one patients (64%) received warfarin and 52 patients (36%) received a DOAC. Six patients (6.6%) who received warfarin experienced a recurrent thrombotic event compared with 3 of 52 (5.8%) patients who received a DOAC (p = .845). There was no difference in event‐free survival between groups (HR DOAC:Warfarin = 0.952, 95% CI 0.232 – 3.908). Major bleeding was similar in both groups.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that DOACs may be a safe and effective option for patients with single‐positive APLS. Prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Risk factors for a first episode of primary uveitis in the UK and proportion of cases that experience recurrence following this first episode
Authors: Malalana Fernando , Ireland Joanne L. , Pinchbeck Gina L. , McGowan Catherine M.
Published: March 2022

Background

Risk factors for a first episode of primary uveitis in horses have not been determined. In addition, disease progression and the proportion of horses that develop recurrence following the original episode are not known.

Objectives

To determine the risk factors for the development of a first episode of primary uveitis in horses in the UK and to document the proportion of cases that experience recurrence following this first episode.

Study design

Prospective case–control longitudinal study.

Methods

Horses with a first episode of primary uveitis between July 2014 and August 2018 were recruited to the study. For each case, two controls were selected. A questionnaire was completed for each horse and multivariable logistic regression analysis was carried out to identify associations between horse and management‐level variables and the risk of uveitis. Each case was then followed longitudinally to determine the rate of recurrence of uveitis.

Results

Twenty‐three cases and 46 controls were recruited. Being close to a pig farm (OR 27.8, CI 1.31‐592.06) and a recent history of flooding of the pasture (OR 15.43, CI 2.80‐84.98) was associated with increased risk of uveitis. Being in the same owner's possession for a longer amount of time had a protective effect (OR 0.79, CI 0.68‐0.93). Horses recovered uneventfully following treatment and showed no evidence of recurrence in 59.1% of the cases (n = 13). In five horses (22.7%), the initial episode of uveitis could not be controlled and required surgical therapy. Recurrence was observed in four horses (18.2%).

Main limitations

Small sample size. Recall bias from owners for some of the data. Possibility of selection bias.

Conclusions

Clinicians can use this information to identify horses with increased risk of uveitis and provide advice to the owners of these horses. The proportion of cases that experience recurrence appears low in the UK.
PACAP‐expressing neurons in the lateral habenula diminish negative emotional valence
Authors: Levinstein Marjorie R. , Bergkamp David J. , Lewis Zoë K. , Tsobanoudis Alex , Hashikawa Koichi , Stuber Garret D. , Neumaier John F.
Published: March 2022

The lateral habenula (LHb) is a small, bilateral, epithalamic nucleus which processes aversive information. While primarily glutamatergic, LHb neurons express genes coding for many neuropeptides, such as Adcyap1 the gene encoding pituitary adenylate cyclase‐activating polypeptide (PACAP), which itself has been associated with anxiety and stress disorders. Using Cre‐dependent viral vectors, we targeted and characterized these neurons based on their anatomical projections and found that they projected to both the raphe and rostromedial tegmentum but only weakly to ventral tegmental area. Using RiboTag to capture ribosomal‐associated mRNA from these neurons and reanalysis of existing single cell RNA sequencing data, we did not identify a unique molecular phenotype that characterized these PACAP‐expressing neurons in LHb. In order to understand the function of these neurons, we conditionally expressed hM3Dq DREADD selectively in LHb PACAP‐expressing neurons and chemogenetically excited these neurons during behavioral testing in the open field test, contextual fear conditioning, sucrose preference, novelty suppressed feeding, and conditioned place preference. We found that Gq activation of these neurons produce behaviors opposite to what is expected from the LHb as a whole—they decreased anxiety‐like and fear behavior and produced a conditioned place preference. In conclusion, PACAP‐expressing neurons in LHb represents a molecularly diverse population of cells that oppose the actions of the remainder of LHb neurons by being rewarding or diminishing the negative consequences of aversive events.
Diversification and community assembly of the world’s largest tropical island
Authors: Kennedy Jonathan D. , Marki Petter Z. , Reeve Andrew H. , Blom Mozes P. K. , Prawiradilaga Dewi M. , Haryoko Tri , Koane Bonny , Kamminga Pepijn , Irestedt Martin , Jønsson Knud A.
Published: March 2022

Aim

The species diversity and endemism of tropical biotas are major contributors to global biodiversity, but the factors underlying the formation of these systems remain poorly understood.

Location

The world's largest tropical island, New Guinea.

Time period

Miocene to present.

Major taxa studied

Passerine birds.

Methods

We first generated a species‐level phylogeny of all native breeding passerine birds to analyse spatial and elevational patterns of species richness, species age and phylogenetic diversity. Second, we used an existing dataset on bill morphology to analyse spatial and elevational patterns of functional diversity.

Results

The youngest New Guinean species are principally distributed in the lowlands and outlying mountain ranges, with the lowlands also maintaining the majority of non‐endemic species. In contrast, many species occurring in the central mountain range are phylogenetically distinct, range‐restricted, endemic lineages. Centres of accumulation for the oldest species are in montane forest, with these taxa having evolved unique bill forms in comparison to the remaining New Guinean species. For the morphological generalists, attaining a highland distribution does not necessarily represent the end to dispersal and diversification, because a number of new species have formed in the outlying mountain ranges, following recent colonization from the central range.

Main conclusions

We conclude that a general model of tropical montane diversification is that lineages commonly colonize the lowlands, shifting their ranges upslope through time to become range‐restricted montane forest endemics, attaining novel functional adaptations to these environments.
Prevalence of mental health conditions among people living with HIV during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A rapid systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lee Kai Wei , Ang Chin Siang , Lim Sin How , Siau Ching Sin , Ong Lai Teik Derek , Ching Siew Mooi , Ooi Pei Boon
Published: March 2022

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic has generated many mental health problems worldwide. People living with HIV (henceforth known as PLHIV) bear a higher mental health burden in comparison with the general population. Therefore, their risk of mental health problems may be elevated during the pandemic.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis to assess the prevalence of depression, anxiety, psychological stress, insomnia and loneliness among PLHIV during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Observational studies in four databases published from 1 January 2020 to 30 April 2021 investigating the prevalence of mental health conditions during the COVID‐19 pandemic were searched, and 197 articles were retrieved. After the processes of duplication removal, eligibility screening and full‐text assessment, 10 articles were included in the systematic review and six articles for meta‐analyses. A random‐effects model was applied to derive the pooled prevalence of mental health conditions. The risk of bias was assessed using the STROBE checklist.

Results

Overall, the pooled prevalence rates of (moderate‐to‐severe) depression and anxiety among PLHIV were 16.9% [95% confidence interval (CI): 3.8%–30.0%] and 23.0% (95% CI: 12.0%–34.0%), respectively.

Conclusions

More research is needed to investigate the mechanism by which the pandemic affects the mental health of PLHIV. Support and programmes are needed to ameliorate the mental health problems in this marginalized population.
Influence of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid on regenerative endodontics: A systematic review
Authors: dos Reis‐Prado Alexandre H. , Abreu Lucas G. , Fagundes Rogéria R. , Oliveira Sabrina de C. , Bottino Marco C. , Ribeiro‐Sobrinho Antônio P. , Benetti Francine
Published: March 2022

Background

The effects of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) on regenerative endodontic procedures (REPs) are controversial, because, despite releasing growth factors from dentine, some studies show negative effects on cell behaviour.

Objectives

The aim of the study was to investigate the influence of the use of EDTA in REP on the growth factors’ release, cell behaviour and tissue regeneration.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted (PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, OpenGrey and reference lists) up to February 2021. Only in vivo and in vitro studies evaluating the effects of EDTA on the biological factors of dentine, pulp/periapical tissues and cell behaviour were eligible. Studies without a control group or available full text were excluded. The growth factors’ release was the primary outcome. Risk of bias in the in vitro and in vivo studies was performed according to Joanna Briggs Institute's Checklist and SYRCLE’s RoB tool, respectively.

Results

Of the 1848 articles retrieved, 36 were selected. Amongst these, 32 were in vitro, three animal studies and one with both models. The EDTA concentrations ranged from 3% to 15%, at different times. Regarding growth factors’ release (17 studies), 15 studies found significant transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β release after dentine conditioning with EDTA, and most found no influence on vascular endothelial growth factor release. Regarding cell behaviour (26 studies), eight studies showed no influence of EDTA‐treated dentine on cell viability, whereas, five, nine and six studies showed higher cell migration, adhesion and differentiation respectively. No influence of EDTA conditioning was observed in animal studies. In vitro studies had a low risk of bias, whereas animal studies had high risk of bias. Meta‐analysis was unfeasible.

Discussion

This review found that EDTA increased TGF‐β release and improved cell activity. However, well‐designed histological analyses using immature teeth models are needed.

Conclusions

High‐quality in vitro evidence suggests that EDTA‐treated dentine positively influences TGF‐β release, cell migration, attachment and differentiation; further research to evaluate its influence on tissue regeneration is necessary due to low methodological quality of the animal studies.
Clinical practice pattern in patients with advanced urothelial cancer who had progressed on pembrolizumab in the pre‐enfortumab vedotin era
Authors: Kita Yuki , Ito Katsuhiro , Sano Tomoyasu , Hashimoto Kohei , Mochizuki Takanori , Shiraishi Yusuke , Araki Hiromasa , Fujiwara Maki , Kanamaru Sojun , Takahashi Takehiro , Hishiki Kosuke , Okada Takuya , Ogawa Kosuke , Ito Masaaki , Kojima Takahiro , Nishiyama Naotaka , Matsui Yoshiyuki , Nishiyama Hiroyuki , Kitamura Hiroshi , Kobayashi Takashi
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Pembrolizumab, an anti‐PD‐1 monoclonal antibody, revolutionized the treatment for advanced urothelial carcinoma. However, the standard treatment for patients after disease progression with pembrolizumab had not been established until the recent approval of enfortumab vedotin. We analyzed the treatment of these patients in the real world, and the patient background and outcomes.

Methods

We extracted data from 543 patients who experienced progressive disease after pembrolizumab initiation from a Japanese nation‐wide cohort of platinum‐refractory, metastatic urothelial carcinoma.

Results

The median overall survival of the 543 patients was 3.5 months (95% confidence interval 3.0–4.1). Of these, only 20.6% (n = 112) received chemotherapy as a subsequent systemic treatment after progressive disease. The regimen of chemotherapy was very diverse. The median overall survival was 11.9 months (95% confidence interval 9.2–14.7) for patients who received chemotherapy, compared to 2.4 months for those who did not receive chemotherapy (95% confidence interval 2.1–2.9; P < 0.0001). Patients who received subsequent chemotherapy were more likely to have better performance status, neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio <3, hemoglobin >11 mg/dL, and history of a single chemotherapeutic regimen at pembrolizumab initiation.

Conclusions

This report highlights the real‐world practice of the management after pembrolizumab treatment failure in the pre‐enfortumab vedotin era, characterized by infrequent use of subsequent anticancer therapy comprising various regimens, reflecting the lack of a standard treatment. Clinical introduction of enfortumab vedotin is expected to improve treatment outcomes in this setting. The present study will provide important baseline data for evaluating the influence of enfortumab vedotin on clinical practices and outcomes.
Halogen‐content‐dependent photoluminescence of Mn2+‐doped CsPbCl3 nanocrystals
Authors: Wang Nanchuan , Guo Shibo , Chen Qiaochu , Gao Fengmei , Yang Weiyou , Fu Hui , Zheng Jinju
Published: March 2022

The thermodynamically viable halogen vacancy defects in CsPbCl3 perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) are considered the main factor in weakening their optical quality. However, their separate impact on the dopant emission in Mn2+‐doped CsPbCl3 perovskite NCs is still under exploration owing to the absence of comparable samples. Herein, a series of Mn2+‐doped CsPbCl3 samples were synthesized with different oleylamine‐Cl (OAm‐Cl) contents based on a halogen‐hot‐injection strategy. It is found that the Mn2+ concentration of as‐prepared samples fixed at 0.65%, and the Mn2+ photoluminescence (PL) also exhibited an OAm‐Cl content‐independent lifetime of ∼ 1.78 ms, implying the efficient and identical luminescence of isolated Mn2+ ion in all samples. In contrast, the excitonic and Mn2+ PL intensities of the NCs are strong related to the amount of OAm‐Cl, which are attributed to the coordination effect of the suppressed excitonic nonradiative recombination owing to the passivation of chloride vacancies and the enhanced energy transfer from the host exciton to Mn2+ ions in the samples with sufficient OAm‐Cl contents. The temperature‐dependent of Mn2+ PL disclosed an initial increase and was followed by a decrease with increasing temperature for the samples with relatively higher OAm‐Cl contents, while it monotonously decreases for the sample with lower OAm‐Cl content of 0.4 mL. The different PL intensity change trend results from the effective passivation of chloride vacancies by extra OAm‐Cl. Above results present here will help clarify the underlying influence mechanism of halogen vacancy on the PL properties of Mn2+‐doped perovskite NCs, which is essential for targeted modulation of their optical properties.
Self‐reduction and enhanced luminescence in transparent Mn2+‐doped mullite glass‐ceramics derived from EMT‐type zeolite
Authors: Geng Rongrong , Zhou Beiying , Wang Jiancheng , Yuan Qingyun , Pan Zesheng , Zhao Yuye , Wang Lianjun , Jiang Wan
Published: March 2022

Mn2+ activated glass‐ceramic (GC) has received tremendous attention in the exploration of luminescent materials for solid‐state lighting due to the high stability, broad red emission, and low toxicity. However, the doped Mn2+ ions still suffer from the oxidation and uncontrollable ions migration during the melting process of conventional preparation techniques, which is detrimental to the luminescence performance. Herein, transparent Mn2+‐doped mullite GCs have been prepared at low temperature (∼850°C) via the spark plasma sintering of EMT‐type zeolite. The GC samples show typical red emission peaking at 620 nm that can be assigned to spin‐forbidden 4T1(G)→6A1(S) transition of Mn2+ located in the octahedral coordination site of the host. Owing to the charge compensation mechanism and produced oxygen vacancies, the self‐reduction of Mn3+ to Mn2+ ions is realized and the oxidization is inhibited. The mullite nanocrystals acted as additional scattering centers introduce Rayleigh scattering to enhance the emission intensity. Moreover, benefitted from the established mullite nanocrystals network, the Mn2+‐doped GCs exhibit improved thermal conductivity up to 1.79 W K−1 m−1 and more excellent mechanical properties than conventional GCs, simultaneously.
Interactive relationship between Trp metabolites and gut microbiota: The impact on human pathology of disease
Authors: Khoshnevisan Kamyar , Chehrehgosha Maryam , Conant Melissa , Meftah Amir Mohammad , Baharifar Hadi , Ejtahed Hanieh-Sadat , Angoorani Pooneh , Gholami Morteza , Sharifi Farshad , Maleki Hassan , Larijani Bagher , Khorramizadeh Mohammad Reza
Published: March 2022

Tryptophan (Trp), an α-amino acid, is the precursor of serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT), which is involved in a variety of features of metabolic function and human nutrition. Evidence highlights the role of Trp metabolites (exclusively 5-HT) in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract; however, the mechanisms of action involved in the release of 5-HT in the GI tract are still unknown. Considering the fact that variations of 5-HT may facilitate the growth of certain GI disorders, gaining a better understanding of the function and release of 5-HT in the GI tract would be beneficial. Additionally, investigating Trp metabolism may clarify the relationship between Trp and gut microbiota. It is believed that other metabolites of Trp (mostly that of the kynurenine pathway) may play a significant role in controlling gut microbiota function. In this review, we have attempted to summarize the current research investigating the relationship of gut microbiota, Trp and 5-HT metabolism (with particular attention paid to their metabolite type, as well as a discussion of the research methods used in each study). Taking together, regarding the role that Trp/5-HT plays in a range of physical and mental diseases, the gut bacterial types, as well as the related disorders, have been exclusively considered.
Water and energy availability mediate biodiversity patterns along an elevational gradient in the tropical Andes
Authors: Tolmos Maria Laura , Kreft Holger , Ramirez Jorge , Ospina Román , Craven Dylan
Published: March 2022

Aim

How tree taxonomic and phylogenetic diversity vary with elevation at multiple spatial scales may provide new insights into the ecological and evolutionary processes influencing biogeographical patterns. The effect of water‐ and energy‐related climatic variables on forests diversity across elevations, as well as how clades have evolved on and established across mountain regions lack consensus. Here, we tested whether changes in biodiversity with elevation are consistent with one of, or multiple, competing hypotheses: the water–energy dynamics (WED), species–energy relationship (SER), Tropical Niche Conservatism (TNC) and Out of The Tropics hypothesis (OTT).

Location

Patia watershed, Colombia

Taxon

Seed plants (trees)

Methods

We used a large dataset of 490 0.1 ha forest plots in nine elevational belts (545–3410 m a.s.l) that correspond to three different life zones, and quantified alpha and gamma scales using taxonomic and phylogenetic diversity indices. We fitted linear mixed‐effects models to evaluate how taxonomic and phylogenetic alpha diversity changed with elevation, precipitation and aboveground biomass. We assessed taxonomic and phylogenetic beta diversity using the Sørensen index and its spatial turnover and nestedness components.

Results

Taxonomic and phylogenetic alpha diversity decrease with elevation. Yet, at the gamma scale, taxonomic and phylogenetic diversity predominantly increased with elevation. Taxonomic and phylogenetic beta diversity were strongly influenced by species turnover, and followed a hump‐shaped pattern with elevation.

Main conclusions

Overall, diversity shows a decreasing trend at the local scale, while coarse‐scale gamma diversity followed a pattern of nonlinear increases for both taxonomic and phylogenetic diversity. Evidence supports the influence of SER and WED on diversity patterns across elevations, yet neither evolutionary hypotheses had sufficient empirical support to be conclusive.
Impact of a time‐to‐effect‐guided ablation protocol in cryoballoon ablation on the durability of pulmonary vein isolation
Authors: Rexha Enida , Heeger Christian‐Hendrik , Maack Sabrina , Rottner Laura , Wohlmuth Peter , Lemes Christine , Maurer Tilman , Reißmann Bruno , Rillig Andreas , Mathew Shibu , Sohns Christian , Ouyang Feifan , Kuck Karl‐Heinz , Metzner Andreas
Published: March 2022

Background

Cryoballoon (CB)‐based pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) has proven to be as effective as radiofrequency‐based ablation. Different ablation protocols took the individual time‐to‐isolation (TTI) into account aiming at shorter but equally or even more effective freeze cycles. The current study sought to assess the impact of the TTI on PVI durability in patients undergoing a repeat procedure for recurrence of atrial tachyarrhythmia (ATA).

Methods and Results

In 205 patients with ATA recurrence after previous CB‐based PVI, a total of 806 pulmonary veins (PVs) were identified. A total of 126 out of 806 PVs (16%) were previously treated with a TTI‐guided ablation (Protocol #1; TTI + 120 s), in 92/806 (11%) PVs TTI was only monitored (m) but fixed freeze cycles were applied (Protocol #2; mTTI) and in 588/806 (73%) a fixed freeze cycle was applied without mTTI. There was no difference in the PV‐reconduction rate between the groups (p = .23). The right inferior pulmonary vein (RIPV) showed overall significantly higher reconduction rates compared to the other PVs (RIPV–left inferior PV p < .003, –left superior PV p < .001, –right superior PV p < .013). Twenty‐one patients (10%) were demonstrated to have only electrical reconduction of the RIPV, while all other PVs were still electrically isolated.

Conclusions

The TTI‐based CB ablation protocol did not show significant differences regarding PV‐reconduction rates compared to the other ablation protocols.
Fluoroscopic predictors of acceptable capture threshold during the implantation of the micra transcatheter pacing system
Authors: Togashi Ikuko , Sato Toshiaki , Maeda  Akiko , Mohri Takato , Katsume Yumi , Tashiro Mika , Momose Yuichi , Nonoguchi Noriko , Hoshida Kyoko , Miwa Yosuke , Ueda Akiko , Soejima Kyoko
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Few predictors of low capture threshold before the deployment of the Micra transcatheter pacing system (Micra TPS) have been determined. We aimed to identify fluoroscopic predictors of an acceptable capture threshold before Micra TPS deployment.

Methods

Sixty patients were successfully implanted with Micra TPS. Before deployment, gooseneck appearance of the catheter shaft was quantified using the angle between the tangent line of the shaft and the cup during diastole in the right anterior oblique (RAO) view. The direction of the device cup toward the ventricular septum was evaluated using the angle between the cup and the horizontal plane in the left anterior oblique (LAO) view.

Results

Of the 95 deployments we evaluated, 56 achieved an acceptable capture threshold of ≤2.0 V at 0.24 ms. In this acceptable threshold group, the deflection angle of the gooseneck shaft was significantly larger and the device cup was placed more horizontally with a lower elevation angle compared with those in the high threshold group. A deflection angle of ≥6° and an elevation angle of ≤30° were identified as the predictors of an acceptable capture threshold after deployment. An acceptable capture threshold was achieved in 24/31 (77.4%) patients in whom either angle criterion was satisfied at the first deployment.

Conclusions

Diastolic gooseneck appearance of the delivery catheter in the RAO view or near‐horizontal direction in the LAO view predicts an acceptable capture threshold after deployment. The shape of the delivery catheter before deployment should be evaluated using multiple fluoroscopic views to ensure successful implantation of Micra TPS.
Alzheimer's disease and related dementias and heart failure: A community study
Authors: Manemann Sheila M. , Knopman David S. , St. Sauver Jennifer , Bielinski Suzette J. , Chamberlain Alanna M. , Weston Susan A. , Jiang Ruoxiang , Roger Véronique L.
Published: March 2022

Background

Cognitive function is essential to effective self‐management of heart failure (HF). Alzheimer's disease and Alzheimer's disease‐related dementias (AD/ADRD) can coexist with HF, but its exact prevalence and impact on health care utilization and death are not well defined.

Methods

Residents from 7 southeast Minnesota counties with a first‐ever diagnosis code for HF between January 1, 2013 and December 31, 2018 were identified. Clinically diagnosed AD/ADRD was ascertained using the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) Chronic Conditions Data Warehouse algorithm. Patients were followed through March 31, 2020. Cox and Andersen‐Gill models were used to examine associations between AD/ADRD (before and after HF) and death and hospitalizations, respectively.

Results

Among 6336 patients with HF (mean age [SD] 75 years [14], 48% female), 644 (10%) carried a diagnosis of AD/ADRD at index HF diagnosis. The 3‐year cumulative incidence of AD/ADRD after HF diagnosis was 17%. During follow‐up (mean [SD] 3.2 [1.9] years), 2618 deaths and 15,475 hospitalizations occurred. After adjustment, patients with AD/ADRD before HF had nearly a 2.7 times increased risk of death, but no increased risk of hospitalization compared to those without AD/ADRD. When AD/ADRD was diagnosed after the index HF date, patients experienced a 3.7 times increased risk of death and a 73% increased risk of hospitalization compared to those who remain free of AD/ADRD.

Conclusions

In a large, community cohort of patients with incident HF, the burden of AD/ADRD is quite high as more than one‐fourth of patients with HF received a diagnosis of AD/ADRD either before or after HF diagnosis. AD/ADRD markedly increases the risk of adverse outcomes in HF underscoring the need for future studies focused on holistic approaches to improve outcomes.
Copper bis(thiosemicarbazone) complexes modulate P‐glycoprotein expression and function in human brain microvascular endothelial cells
Authors: Pyun Jae , McInnes Lachlan E. , Donnelly Paul S. , Mawal Celeste , Bush Ashley I. , Short Jennifer L. , Nicolazzo Joseph A.
Published: March 2022

P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) is an efflux transporter at the blood–brain barrier (BBB) that hinders brain access of substrate drugs and clears endogenous molecules such as amyloid beta (Aβ) from the brain. As biometals such as copper (Cu) modulate many neuronal signalling pathways linked to P‐gp regulation, it was hypothesised that the bis(thiosemicarbazone) (BTSC) Cu‐releasing complex, copper II glyoxal bis(4‐methyl‐3‐thiosemicarbazone) (CuII[GTSM]), would enhance P‐gp expression and function at the BBB, while copper II diacetyl bis(4‐methyl‐3‐thiosemicarbazone) (CuII[ATSM]), which only releases Cu under hypoxic conditions, would not modulate P‐gp expression. Following treatment with 25–250 nM CuII(BTSC)s for 8–48 h, expression of P‐gp mRNA and protein in human brain endothelial (hCMEC/D3) cells was assessed by RT‐qPCR and Western blot, respectively. P‐gp function was assessed by measuring accumulation of the fluorescent P‐gp substrate, rhodamine 123 and intracellular Cu levels were quantified by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Interestingly, CuII(ATSM) significantly enhanced P‐gp expression and function 2‐fold and 1.3‐fold, respectively, whereas CuII(GTSM) reduced P‐gp expression 0.5‐fold and function by 200%. As both compounds increased intracellular Cu levels, the effect of different BTSC backbones, independent of Cu, on P‐gp expression was assessed. However, only the Cu‐ATSM complex enhanced P‐gp expression and this was mediated partly through activation (1.4‐fold) of the extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1 and 2, an outcome that was significantly attenuated in the presence of an inhibitor of the mitogen‐activated protein kinase regulatory pathway. Our findings suggest that CuII(ATSM) and CuII(GTSM) have the potential to modulate the expression and function of P‐gp at the BBB to impact brain drug delivery and clearance of Aβ.

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The Effect of Firing Cycles on the Fit of Cobalt‐Chromium Multiunit Prostheses Fabricated by Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Daou Elie E. , Baba Nadim Z.
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The effect of annealing and firing cycle on the adaptation of cobalt‐chromium (CoCr) restorations fabricated by additive manufacturing has been poorly documented. This study compared the marginal and internal fit of CoCr three‐unit fixed dental prostheses before and after firing cycles.

Material and methods

The first right maxillary premolar (MP) and molar (MM) on a typodont model, were prepared with a circumferential 1.2 mm chamfer, 2 mm occlusal reduction, and total taper of 8 degrees, to receive 3‐unit fixed dental prostheses (FDP). After the framework design, 20 framework specimens were fabricated using CoCr metal powder by selective laser melting. The replica technique was used for marginal and internal fit measurements in mesiodistal and buccolingual planes. The specimens were submitted to an annealing process, and to ceramic firing protocol. Measurements were repeated after each firing cycle. The data were compared by using Levene test, t‐test, and analysis of variance (ANOVA) (α = 0.05).

Results

A significant difference was found in the total intaglio surface discrepancy between the 3 treatments. The annealing treatment induced a statistical difference in the discrepancy value compared to the as printed state (p = 0.028). A significant difference was detected between the initial manufacturing phase and the ceramic layering firing cycle (p = 0.003).

Conclusions

Firing cycles induced an alteration of the frameworks adaptation.
The First State Tobacco Flavor Ban: High School Tobacco Control Needs in a Changing Landscape
Authors: Liu Jessica , Reynolds Matthew J. , Hartman Lester , Gottlieb Mark , Coogan Jacqueline M. , Winickoff Jonathan P.
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND

Despite recent tobacco control efforts, adolescent vaping remains an epidemic in the United States. The purpose of our study was to understand high school student vaping behaviors using the perceptions of Massachusetts school personnel during the critical window from when the Massachusetts statewide flavor ban legislation was passed in November 2019 through the first year of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

METHODS

High school personnel throughout Massachusetts were invited to complete a cross‐sectional survey. Analysis of survey responses was conducted in R.

RESULTS

A total of 162 respondents completed the survey representing 137 schools that draw enrollments from 216 (61%) of the 352 cities and towns in Massachusetts. The most popular products that respondents believed their students were using were JUULs (95.7%), other e‐cigarettes (85.3%), and disposable vapes (79.6%). Following the flavor ban, the majority (90.7%) did not report an increase in combusted tobacco product use. All participants (100%) reported wanting more access to prevention and treatment resources.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that a comprehensive flavor ban may be an effective tobacco control policy that does not appear to promote student switching from vaping products to combusted tobacco products. These data also indicate that schools report needing additional resources to address the vaping epidemic.
Heteropogon‐Themeda grasses evolve to occupy either tropical grassland or wetland biomes
Authors: Arthan Watchara , Morales‐Fierro Vanezza , Vorontsova Maria S. , Kellogg Elizabeth A. , Mitchley Jonathan , Lehmann Caroline E. R.
Published: March 2022

Species of the Heteropogon‐Themeda clade are ecologically important grasses distributed across the tropics, including widespread species, such as the pantropical Heteropogon contortus and Themeda triandra, and range‐restricted species such as Heteropogon ritchiei and Themeda anathera. Here, we examine habitat preferences of the grassland/savanna and wetland species by describing bioclimatic niche characteristics, characterizing functional traits, and investigating the evolution of functional traits of 31 species in the Heteropogon‐Themeda clade in relation to precipitation and temperature. The climatic limits of the clade are linked to mean annual precipitation and seasonality that also distinguish seven wetland species from 24 grassland/savanna species. Tests of niche equivalency highlighted the unique bioclimatic niche of the wetland species. However, climatic factors do not fully explain species geographic range, and other factors are likely to contribute to their distribution ranges. Trait analyses demonstrated that the wetland and grassland/savanna species were separated by culm height, leaf length, leaf area, awn length, and awn types. Phylogenetic analyses showed that the wetland species had tall stature with long and large leaves and lack of hygroscopic awns, which suggest selective pressures in the shift between savanna/grassland and wetland. The two most widespread species, H. contortus and T. triandra, have significantly different bioclimatic niches, but we also found that climatic niche alone does not explain the current geographic distributions of H. contortus and T. triandra. Our study provides a new understanding of the biogeography and evolutionary history of an ecologically important clade of C4 tropical grasses.
African climate and geomorphology drive evolution and ghost introgression in sable antelope
Authors: Rocha Joana L. , Vaz Pinto Pedro , Siegismund Hans R. , Meyer Matthias , Jansen van Vuuren Bettine , Veríssimo Luís , Ferrand Nuno , Godinho Raquel
Published: March 2022

The evolutionary history of African ungulates has been explained largely in the light of Pleistocene climatic oscillations and the way these influenced the distribution of vegetation types, leading to range expansions and/or isolation in refugia. In contrast, comparatively fewer studies have addressed the continent’s environmental heterogeneity and the role played by its geomorphological barriers. In this study, we performed a range‐wide analysis of complete mitogenomes of sable antelope (Hippotragus niger) to explore how these different factors may have contributed as drivers of evolution in southcentral Africa. Our results supported two sympatric and deeply divergent mitochondrial lineages in west Tanzanian sables, which can be explained as the result of introgressive hybridization of a mitochondrial ghost lineage from an archaic, as‐yet‐undefined, congener. Phylogeographical subdivisions into three main lineages suggest that sable diversification may not have been driven solely by climatic events affecting populations differently across a continental scale. Often in interplay with climate, geomorphological features have also clearly shaped the species’ patterns of vicariance, where the East Africa Rift System and the Eastern Arc Mountains acted as geological barriers. Subsequent splits among southern populations may be linked to rearrangements in the Zambezi system, possibly framing the most recent time when the river attained its current drainage profile. This work underlines how the use of comprehensive mitogenomic data sets on a model species with a wide geographical distribution can contribute to a much‐enhanced understanding of environmental, geomorphological and evolutionary patterns in Africa throughout the Quaternary.
Subtle limits to connectivity revealed by outlier loci within two divergent metapopulations of the deep‐sea hydrothermal gastropod Ifremeria nautilei
Authors: Tran Lu Y Adrien , Ruault Stéphanie , Daguin‐Thiébaut Claire , Castel Jade , Bierne Nicolas , Broquet Thomas , Wincker Patrick , Perdereau Aude , Arnaud‐Haond Sophie , Gagnaire Pierre‐Alexandre , Jollivet Didier , Hourdez Stéphane , Bonhomme François
Published: March 2022

Hydrothermal vents form archipelagos of ephemeral deep‐sea habitats that raise interesting questions about the evolution and dynamics of the associated endemic fauna, constantly subject to extinction‐recolonization processes. These metal‐rich environments are coveted for the mineral resources they harbour, thus raising recent conservation concerns. The evolutionary fate and demographic resilience of hydrothermal species strongly depend on the degree of connectivity among and within their fragmented metapopulations. In the deep sea, however, assessing connectivity is difficult and usually requires indirect genetic approaches. Improved detection of fine‐scale genetic connectivity is now possible based on genome‐wide screening for genetic differentiation. Here, we explored population connectivity in the hydrothermal vent snail Ifremeria nautilei across its species range encompassing five distinct back‐arc basins in the Southwest Pacific. The global analysis, based on 10,570 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers derived from double digest restriction‐site associated DNA sequencing (ddRAD‐seq), depicted two semi‐isolated and homogeneous genetic clusters. Demogenetic modeling suggests that these two groups began to diverge about 70,000 generations ago, but continue to exhibit weak and slightly asymmetrical gene flow. Furthermore, a careful analysis of outlier loci showed subtle limitations to connectivity between neighbouring basins within both groups. This finding indicates that migration is not strong enough to totally counterbalance drift or local selection, hence questioning the potential for demographic resilience at this latter geographical scale. These results illustrate the potential of large genomic data sets to understand fine‐scale connectivity patterns in hydrothermal vents and the deep sea.
Cognitive impairment in advanced Parkinson's disease
Authors: Murakami Takenobu , Hanajima Ritsuko
Published: March 2022

Cognitive impairment is known to be a non‐motor symptom of Parkinson's disease (PD). Multiple cognitive domains, such as executive, attention, visuoperceptual, and memory functions, are impaired in PD. Various cognitive neural networks should, therefore, be involved in PD. Neural degeneration due to the pathology of Lewy bodies spread to many neural networks, leading to cognitive impairment. Executive dysfunction is mostly related to dopaminergic network disruption, projecting from the nigrostriatal and mesocorticolimbic systems to the prefrontal lobes. This idea was strengthened by the convincing evidence that administrating levodopa can provide beneficial effects for executive functions with improvements in motor symptoms. Frontoparietal cholinergic and noradrenergic network dysfunctions induce attention deficits, including cognitive fluctuation. Abnormality in the cholinergic network is related to visuoperceptual processing dysfunction, which induces visual hallucinations and memory impairments. Pharmacological treatments using cholinesterase inhibitors are effective in improving cognitive function in PD with dementia, which strongly supports the above concept. The pathology of Lewy bodies in the cortical and limbic systems relates to cognitive impairment, and the pathology of cortical amyloids facilitates the progression of cognitive decline in PD. Biomarker studies of cerebrospinal fluid measurements, neuroimaging, and neurophysiology have provided much evidence of cognitive impairment in PD. This review discusses the current knowledge on cognitive impairment in advanced PD, focusing on the distinct neural networks affected by neural degeneration.
Predictors of permanent pacemaker insertion after mitral valve replacement: A systematic review
Authors: Ghauri Hamza , Iqbal Raafe , Ahmed Sohail , Ashraf Amna , Khan Muhammad Saad Qadeer , Malik Jahanzeb , Zaidi Syed Muhammad Jawad , Almas Talal
Published: March 2022

As the established surgical mitral valve replacement (MVR) expands toward various contemporary techniques and access routes, the predictors and burden of procedure‐related complications including the need for permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation need to be identified. Digital databases were searched systematically to identify studies reporting the incidence of PPM implantation after MVR. Detailed study and patient‐level baseline characteristics including the type of study, sample size, follow‐up, number of post‐MVR PPM implantations, age, gender, and baseline ECG abnormalities were abstracted. A total of 12 studies, recruiting 37,124 patients were included in the final analysis. Overall, 2820 (7.6%) patients required a PPM with the net rate ranging from 1.7% to 10.96%. Post‐MVR atrioventricular (AV) block was the most commonly observed indication for PPM, followed by sinoatrial (SA) node dysfunction, and bradycardia. Age, male gender, pre‐existing comorbid conditions, prior CABG, history of arrhythmias or using antiarrhythmic drugs, atrial fibrillation ablation, and double valve replacement were predictors of PPM implantation post‐MVR. Age, male gender, comorbid conditions like diabetes and renal impairment, prior CABG, double valve replacement, and antiarrhythmic drugs served as positive predictors of PPM implantation in patients undergoing MVR.
Consultancies in public administration
Authors: Seabrooke Leonard , Sending Ole Jacob
Published: March 2022

Public administrations increasingly rely on consultancies to acquire policy knowledge, assess stakeholder dynamics, and evaluate governance systems. In this symposium, we explore the drivers and effects of this trend. Consultants offer advisory services, articulate governance trends, provide technical and programming expertise, as well as evaluation functions. Historically consultancies were introduced to public administrations to prevent market dominance and to respond to demands for specialized professional services. This relationship morphed into an expanded global market for a wide range of consultancy services that national and international administrations purchase. We explore how consultancies and public administrations interact through a discussion of task‐setting based on recognition of: (i) what party can make claims to support a public ethos, (ii) what forms of expertise are most relevant for solving the problem, and (iii) status in who can best tackle uncertainties.
Evaluation of neurodevelopmental symptoms in 10 cases of neonatal ichthyosis and sclerosing cholangitis syndrome
Authors: Salik Deborah , Hadj‐Rabia Smail , Hohl Daniel , Vahidnezhad Hassan , Youssefian Leila , Rakosi Adèle , Dangoisse Chantal , Marangoni Martina , Vilain Catheline , Smits Guillaume
Published: March 2022

Neonatal ichthyosis and sclerosing cholangitis (NISCH) syndrome is an extremely rare entity with only 19 patients described in the literature. We report an extended family with the disorder and investigate the association of neurodevelopmental symptoms. Patients with CLDN1 mutations, and specifically « the Moroccan» c.200_201delTT deletion, may be an increased risk for neurodevelopmental symptoms such as learning disabilities, mental retardation, and language delay.
AIDS cases in Ottawa: A review of simultaneous HIV and AIDS diagnoses
Authors: Orser Lauren , O'Byrne Patrick , Holmes Dave
Published: March 2022

Objectives

In Canada, HIV diagnoses continue unabated, with many of these cases being identified at a late stage of infection. While current public health surveillance data does not capture timing of diagnoses, locally, we identified a number of patients concurrently diagnosed with AIDS and HIV.

Design

To understand the key characteristics, presenting symptoms, and risk factors associated with an AIDS diagnosis, we undertook a prospective chart review of HIV and AIDS diagnoses in Ottawa, Canada.

Sample

Sixty seven charts of persons diagnosed with HIV and AIDS between 2015 and 2021 were reviewed.

Measurements

Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results

Results show some inconsistencies regarding HIV risk factors identified in published literature compared to those for persons diagnosed with AIDS in this study. Namely, patients in this review were more likely to be male, Black (from HIV‐endemic regions), and heterosexual, and were diagnosed at critical stage in infection (total average CD4+ count of 92.9 cells/mm3) with 44.8% of patients concurrently diagnosed with one or more AIDS‐related opportunistic infections.

Conclusions

The findings can be applied to strengthen HIV screening efforts in primary care settings, particularly among patients who present with persistent symptoms or illnesses related to chronic HIV infection. Additional considerations should be made for public health nurses to provide counseling and linkage to HIV testing/prevention services for patients at the time of an STI or Tuberculosis diagnosis and to increase AIDS‐specific data collection.