bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Physicochemical Properties and Heavy Metal Content of Floriculture Soil in Amhara Region of Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Yihune Endalamaw , Addisu Solomon
Published: August 2024

Floriculture is a new and rapidly expanding sector in Ethiopia that aids economic growth but has also come under blame for pollution of the surrounding soil. The purpose of this study was to assess the soil physicochemical properties and heavy metal contents in floriculture in the Amhara Region of Northwest Ethiopia. Soil samples were collected from seven different greenhouses (2ABC, 4DEF, 5ABC, 7DEF, 8ABC, 9DEF, and 11DEF), and a control soil sample was taken on the 15‐cm depth from a nearby agricultural area. They were analyzed for soil physicochemical parameters and heavy metal compositions. Soil texture showed a significant difference between the soils sampled from the greenhouses and the control group. The highest average clay, silt, and sand contents were recorded in the control group, 4DEF, and 9DEF, respectively. The lower clay content was at 9 DEF, silt at 11 DEF, and sand in the control group. Clay was positively correlated to soil pH (r = 0.66) and TN (r = 0.38) but showed significant negative correlation with the sand fraction (r = −0.96). The average bulk density (BD) values of the soils from the greenhouses were within acceptable ranges; however, the mean BD value of 7DEF was relatively highest (1.34 g/cm3). There were significant (P < 0.05) changes in soil pH and electrical conductivity, with pH values ranging from 5.8 to 7.17 and EC from 0.08 to 1.72 mScm−1. Soil organic carbon, available phosphorus, total nitrogen, and carbon‐to‐nitrogen ratio of the soil samples from the greenhouses and the control group were significantly different. There were also significant differences in soil exchangeable aluminum and acidity between greenhouse soil samples and the control group. Soil contents of some of the heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Mn, and Cu) in the floriculture soil were above the permissible limits, while Cr, Zn, and Ni contents were below. The soil in floriculture showed low quality compared to the control group and international standards, indicating the need for improved soil quality management. This study recommends reducing agrochemical use, increasing bio‐fertilizers, using botanicals, and transitioning to organic farming. Further studies are needed to assess soil microbial diversity and abundance for soil fixation.
Hispanic/Latino Ethnicity Is an Independent Predictor of Worse Survival for Gastric Cancer in a Multicenter Safety-Net Patient Population
Authors: Klingbeil Kyle D. , Dillon Dustin L. , Zarrinkhoo Erfan , Bechay Kirollos , Park Joon Y. , Rook Jordan M. , Mederos Michael A. , Girgis Mark D. , Chen Keren , Chen Kuan-Ting , Bastani Roshan , Manouchehr-Pour Shawdi , Dubé Priyanka , Viragh Karoly , Thomas Mariam , Chiu Victor , Kadera Brian E.
Published: August 2024

Background:

Various population-based studies have shown Hispanic/Latino ethnicity is a risk factor for worse survival in patients with gastric cancer linked to disparate access to care. We aimed to address whether Hispanic patients treated within safety-net hospital systems continue to experience this survival deficit compared to non-Hispanic patients.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective cohort study comparing survival between Hispanic and non-Hispanic patients diagnosed with gastric adenocarcinoma between January 1, 2016, and December 31, 2020, within Los Angeles County’s safety-net hospital system. Gastric cancer–specific survival was compared between the two cohorts using the Kaplan–Meier estimate and Cox proportional-hazards regression model.

Results:

In total, 448 patients who received care from five medical centers were included; 348 (77.7%) patients self-identified as Hispanic and 100 (22.3%) as non-Hispanic. Mean follow-up time was 2.0 years (median 0.91 years, IQR, 0.34–2.5 years). Hispanic patients were found to be diagnosed at a younger age (55.6 vs. 60.7 years, P < 0.01), demonstrate higher state area deprivation index (6.4 vs. 5.0, P < 0.01), and present with metastatic disease (59.8% vs. 45%, P = 0.04). After adjusting social and oncologic variables, Hispanic ethnicity remained an independent risk factor for worse survival [HR 1.56, (95% CI, 1.06–2.28); P = 0.02].

Conclusions:

Hispanic patients treated within a large, multicenter safety-net hospital system experience worse survival compared to non-Hispanic patients. This suggests ethnic disparities exist within safety-net hospital systems, independent of known clinicopathologic factors.

Impact:

Improving outcomes for Hispanic patients with gastric cancer requires future efforts aimed at defining and addressing these unidentified barriers to care.

See related In the Spotlight, p. 12
Table 4 from Exploring Disparities in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Outcomes among Asian and Pacific Islander Subgroups
Authors: Wu Christopher , McLeod M. Chandler , Song Zhixing , Chen Herbert , Rose John Bart , Bhatia Smita , Gillis Andrea
Published: August 2024

Southeast Asian subgroup survival analysis for patients diagnosed with PDAC
Table 2 from Exploring Disparities in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Outcomes among Asian and Pacific Islander Subgroups
Authors: Wu Christopher , McLeod M. Chandler , Song Zhixing , Chen Herbert , Rose John Bart , Bhatia Smita , Gillis Andrea
Published: August 2024

Univariable survival analysis for patients diagnosed with PDAC
Figure S4 from FLT3/CD99 Bispecific Antibody–Based Nanoparticles for Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Ali Atham , Phan Alvin , Vaikari Vijaya , Park Mincheol , Pospiech Mateusz , Chu Ryan , Meng Yiting , MacKay J. Andrew , Alachkar Houda
Published: August 2024

Figure S4 – qPCR analysis results for CDC25A, E2F1, CDKN2B, CDC20, and MYC in MV4-11 cells treated with with FLT3-A192, CD99-A192 and Co-Assembled CD99-A192 and FLT3-A192.
Evaluation of Treatment Strategies and Survival of Patients with cT4bM0 Esophageal Cancer: A Nationwide Cohort Study
Authors: Wang Jingpu , de Groot Eline M. , Wu Zhouqiao , Verhoeven Rob H.A. , Haj Mohammad Nadia , Mook Stella , Goense Lucas , Markar Sheraz R. , Ruurda Jelle P. , van Hillegersberg Richard
Published: August 2024

Introduction: The optimal therapeutic strategy for patients with cT4bM0 esophageal cancer is controversial and varies internationally. This study aimed to describe treatment and survival of patients with cT4bM0 esophageal cancer in the Netherlands. Methods: Patients staged with cT4bM0 esophageal cancer who were registered in the Netherlands Cancer Registry (NCR) were included. All patients were categorized by the treatment modality received. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate the overall survival of them. Results: Between 2015 and 2020, 286 patients with cT4bM0 esophageal cancer were included. Treatment consisted of preoperative chemoradiotherapy/chemotherapy followed by surgery (8%), chemoradiotherapy alone (35%), chemotherapy alone (6%), radiotherapy alone (19%), and best supportive care (32%). The median follow-up was 28.1 months. The 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rates of each group were 82%, 58%, 49% for preoperative therapy plus surgery; 53%, 27%, 16% for chemoradiotherapy only; 13%, 0%, 0% for chemotherapy only; 13%, 0%, 0% for radiotherapy only; and 5%, 0%, 0% for best supportive care. Conclusion: In a selected group of patients, preoperative therapy followed by esophagectomy may lead to improved survival, which is comparable to patients with <cT4bM0 tumors. Therefore, reevaluation following chemo(radio)therapy is recommended in these patients to evaluate the possibility of additional surgical resection.
Gender Disparities in Neurological Symptoms of Long COVID: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Gorenshtein Alon , Leibovitch Liron , Liba Tom , Stern Shai , Stern Yael
Published: August 2024

Background: Female gender is a known risk factor for long COVID. With the increasing number of COVID-19 cases, the corresponding number of survivors is also expected to rise. To the best of our knowledge, no systematic review has specifically addressed the gender differences in neurological symptoms of long COVID. Methods: We included studies on female individuals who presented with specific neurological symptoms at least 12 weeks after confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis from PubMed, Central, Scopus, and Web of Science. The search limit was put for after January 2020 until June 15, 2024. We excluded studies that did not provide sex-specific outcome data, those not in English, case reports, case series, and review articles Results: A total of 5,632 eligible articles were identified. This article provides relevant information from 12 studies involving 6,849 patients, of which 3,414 were female. The sample size ranged from 70 to 2,856, with a maximum follow-up period of 18 months. The earliest publication date was September 16, 2021, while the latest was June 11, 2024. The following neurological symptoms had a significant difference in the risk ratio (RR) for female gender: fatigue RR 1.40 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.22–1.60, p < 0.001), headache RR 1.37 (95% CI: 1.12–1.67, p = 0.002), brain-fog RR 1.38 (95% CI 1.08–1.76, p = 0.011) depression RR 1.49 (95% CI: 1.2–1.86, p < 0.001), and anosmia RR 1.61 (95% CI: 1.36–1.90, p < 0.001). High heterogenicity was found for fatigue, brain fog, and anxiety due to the diverse methodologies employed in the studies. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that women are at a higher risk for long-COVID neurological symptoms, including fatigue, headaches, brain fog, depression, and anosmia, compared to men. The prevalence of these symptoms decreases after 1 year, based on limited data from the small number of studies available beyond this period.
Identification and Initial Validation of Neuroendocrine Differentiation as a Novel Prognostic Factor in Stage II Colorectal Cancer Patients
Authors: Liang Yu , Li Yongmin , Guo Rui , Zhao Yan , Miao Huanshuo , Chang Hong , Chen Yue
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Neuroendocrine differentiation is often found in colorectal cancer, but its impact on prognosis remains controversial. This study explored the association between neuroendocrine differentiation and prognosis in stage II/III colorectal cancer patients. Methods: Between 2012 and 2018, a total of 3,441 stage II/III colorectal cancer patients were included for analysis. To verify neuroendocrine differentiation, immunohistochemistry was performed to explore the expression of chromogranin A and synaptophysin in colorectal cancer. In addition, the difference in overall survival between groups was analyzed. A Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to determine the clinicopathological characteristics significantly correlated with survival, and a Cox proportional hazards analysis was used to identify factors independently affecting overall survival prognosis. Furthermore, the findings were validated by the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Results: Among the 3,441 stage II/III colorectal cancer patients, in comparison to patients with neuroendocrine differentiation (+), patients with neuroendocrine differentiation (+) had a poorer prognosis (p = 0.001). Furthermore, multivariate survival analysis of stage II cases revealed that tumor differentiation (p = 0.018), nerve invasion (p < 0.001), and neuroendocrine differentiation (+) (p = 0.002) were independent prognostic factors. Moreover, the prognosis of patients with neuroendocrine differentiation (+) was similar to that of patients with high-risk factors in stage II cases (p = 0.639). High chromogranin A expression was correlated with poor prognosis in stage II colorectal cancer patients in the Gene Expression Omnibus database (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The prognosis of colorectal cancer with neuroendocrine differentiation (+) was poor, especially in stage II colorectal cancer patients. Neuroendocrine differentiation might be another high-risk factor for the prognosis of stage II colorectal cancer patients.
Solitary Testicular Plasmacytoma: A Case Report
Authors: Nishimura Masanori , Nomura Takeshi , Fujimoto Masahiro , Hiura Yoshihito
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Plasmacytoma of the testis is an extremely rare malignancy that may occur as a solitary tumor, also known as solitary testicular plasmacytoma (STP), or in conjunction with multiple myeloma (MM). Previous studies have shown that STP has a good prognosis and can be cured with localized treatments like radiotherapy or surgery. We report a case of STP with dissemination to the ribs. The patient required systemic chemotherapy. Case Presentation: A 69-year-old man was referred to our hospital due to swelling of the left scrotum. The patient underwent left inguinal high orchiectomy. Based on pathological examination, the specimen was diagnosed as testicular plasmacytoma. As the tests for MM were negative, the patient was followed up. Sixteen months later, multiple bone lesions were detected in the left rims, although serum protein electrophoresis did not show the presence of M protein. Therefore, the patient received 4 courses of chemotherapy, and no signs of recurrence have been detected so far. Conclusion: STP is an extremely rare disease, which obscures its true prognosis. Systemic chemotherapy should be considered for patients with STP in case of recurrence, and long-term follow-up is necessary to understand the nature of the disease.
Antisense Oligonucleotide Therapy for Calmodulinopathy
Authors: Bortolin Raul H. , Nawar Farina , Park Chaehyoung , Trembley Michael A. , Prondzynski Maksymilian , Sweat Mason E. , Wang Peizhe , Chen Jiehui , Lu Fujian , Liou Carter , Berkson Paul , Keating Erin M. , Yoshinaga Daisuke , Pavlaki Nikoleta , Samenuk Thomas , Cavazzoni Cecilia B. , Sage Peter T. , Ma Qing , Whitehill Robert D. , Abrams Dominic J. , Carreon Chrystalle Katte , Putra Juan , Alexandrescu Sanda , Guo Shuai , Tsai Wen-Chin , Rubart Michael , Kubli Dieter A. , Mullick Adam E. , Bezzerides Vassilios J. , Pu William T.
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND:

Calmodulinopathies are rare inherited arrhythmia syndromes caused by dominant heterozygous variants in
CALM1
,
CALM2
, or
CALM3
, which each encode the identical CaM (calmodulin) protein. We hypothesized that antisense oligonucleotide (ASO)–mediated depletion of an affected calmodulin gene would ameliorate disease manifestations, whereas the other 2 calmodulin genes would preserve CaM level and function.

METHODS:

We tested this hypothesis using human induced pluripotent stem cell–derived cardiomyocyte and mouse models of
CALM1
pathogenic variants.

RESULTS:

Human
CALM1

F142L/+

induced pluripotent stem cell–derived cardiomyocytes exhibited prolonged action potentials, modeling congenital long QT syndrome. CALM1 knockout or CALM1-depleting ASOs did not alter CaM protein level and normalized repolarization duration of
CALM1

F142L/+

induced pluripotent stem cell–derived cardiomyocytes. Similarly, an ASO targeting murine
Calm1
depleted
Calm1
transcript without affecting CaM protein level. This ASO alleviated drug-induced bidirectional ventricular tachycardia in
Calm1

N98S/+

mice without a deleterious effect on cardiac electrical or contractile function.

CONCLUSIONS:

These results provide proof of concept that ASOs targeting individual calmodulin genes are potentially effective and safe therapies for calmodulinopathies.
Diagnosis of Brugada Syndrome With a Sodium-Channel-Blocker Test: Who Should Be Tested? Who Should Not?
Authors: Viskin Sami , Chorin Ehud , Rosso Raphael , Amin Ahmad S. , Wilde Arthur A.
Published: August 2024

Intravenous infusion of sodium-channel blockers (SCB) with either ajmaline, flecainide, procainamide, or pilsicainide to unmask the ECG of Brugada syndrome is the drug challenge most commonly used for diagnostic purposes when investigating cases possibly related to inherited arrhythmia syndromes. For a patient undergoing an SCB challenge, the impact of a positive result goes well beyond its diagnostic implications. It is, therefore, appropriate to question who should undergo a SCB test to diagnose or exclude Brugada syndrome and, perhaps more importantly, who should not. We present a critical review of the benefits and drawbacks of the SCB challenge when performed in cardiac arrest survivors, patients presenting with syncope, family members of probands with confirmed Brugada syndrome, and asymptomatic patients with suspicious ECG.
Hypoperfusion Intensity Ratio as an Indirect Imaging Surrogate in Patients With Anterior Circulation Large‐Vessel Occlusion and Association of Baseline Characteristics With Poor Collateral Status
Authors: Hamam Omar , Gudenkauf Julie , Moustafa Rawan , Cho Andrew , Montes Daniel , Sharara Muhannad , Moustafa Abdallah , Radmard Mahla , Nabi Mehreen , Chen Kevin , Sepehri Sadra , Shin Christopher , Mazumdar Ishan , Kim Minsoo , Mohseni Alireza , Malhotra Ajay , Romero Javier , Yedavalli Vivek
Published: August 2024

Background

Collateral status (CS) plays a crucial role in infarct growth rate, risk of postthrombectomy hemorrhage, and overall clinical outcomes in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) secondary to anterior circulation large‐vessel occlusions (LVOs). Hypoperfusion intensity ratio has been previously validated as an indirect noninvasive pretreatment imaging biomarker of CS. In addition to imaging, derangements in admission laboratory findings can also influence outcomes in patients with AIS‐LVO. Therefore, our study aims to assess the relationship between admission laboratory findings, baseline characteristics, and CS, as assessed by hypoperfusion intensity ratio in patients with AIS‐LVO.

Methods and Results

In this retrospective study, consecutive patients presenting with AIS secondary to anterior circulation LVO who underwent pretreatment computed tomography perfusion were included. The computed tomography perfusion data processed by RAPID (Ischema View, Menlo Park, CA) generated the hypoperfusion intensity ratio. Binary logistic regression models were used to assess the relationship between patients' baseline characteristics, admission laboratory findings, and poor CS. A total of 221 consecutive patients with AIS‐LVO between January 2017 and September 2022 were included in our study (mean±SD age, 67.0±15.8 years; 119 men [53.8%]). Multivariable logistic regression showed that patients with AIS caused by cardioembolic and cryptogenic causes (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 2.67; 95% CI, 1.20–5.97;
P
=0.016), those who presented with admission National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score ≥12 (adjusted OR, 3.12; 95% CI, 1.61–6.04;
P
=0.001), and male patients (adjusted OR, 2.06; 95% CI, 1.13–3.77;
P
=0.018) were associated with poor CS.

Conclusions

Stroke caused by cardioembolic or cryptogenic causes, admission National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score of ≥12, and male sex were associated with poor CS, as defined by hypoperfusion intensity ratio in the patients with AIS‐LVO.
Natural Course of Electrocardiographic Features in Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy and Their Relation to Ventricular Arrhythmic Events
Authors: Svensson Anneli , Jensen Henrik Kjaerulf , Boonstra Machteld J. , Tétreault‐Langlois Marianne , Dahlberg Pia , Bundgaard Henning , Christensen Alex Hørby , Rylance Rebecca T. , Svendsen Jesper H. , Cadrin‐Tourigny Julia , te Riele Anneline S. J. M. , Platonov Pyotr G.
Published: August 2024

Background

Electrocardiographic abnormalities are common in arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy and are included in the 2010 Task Force Criteria. Their time course, however, remains uncertain. In this retrospective observational study, we aimed to assess the long‐term evolution of electrocardiographic characteristics and their relation to ventricular arrhythmias.

Methods and Results

Three hundred fifty‐three patients with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy as per the 2010 Task Force Criteria with 6871 automatically processed 12‐lead digital ECGs were included. The relationship between the electrocardiographic parameters and the risk of ventricular arrhythmias was assessed at 10 years from the first ECG. Electrocardiographic parameters were compared between the first contact ECG, the ECG at diagnosis, and the most recent ECG. Median time between the first and the latest ECG was 6 [interquartile range, 1–14] years. Reductions of QRS voltage, R‐ and T‐wave amplitudes between the first, diagnostic, and the latest ECGs were observed across precordial and extremity leads. Mean QRS duration increased from 96 to 102 ms (
P
<0.001), terminal activation duration (V
1
) from 47 to 52 ms (
P
<0.001), and QTc from 419 to 432 ms (
P
<0.001). T‐wave inversions in leads V
3
to V
6
and aVF at first ECG were associated with ventricular arrhythmias (adjusted hazard ratio [HR
adj
][V
3
], 2.03 [95% CI, 1.23–3.34] and HR
adj
[aVF], 1.87 [95% CI, 1.13–3.08]).

Conclusions

Depolarization and repolarization parameters evolved over time in patients with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy, supporting the progressive nature of arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy. Electrocardiographic abnormalities may be detected before diagnosis and might, although not fulfilling the 2010 Task Force Criteria, be markers of early disease. T‐wave inversion in leads V
3
or aVF before diagnosis was associated with ventricular arrhythmias during follow‐up.
Lipids, Apolipoproteins, Lipid‐Lowering Drugs, and the Risk of Cerebral Small Vessel Disease: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Xie Yi , Liu Shuai , Wang Xinyue , Huang Hao , Wang Minghuan , Qu Wensheng , Yu Zhiyuan , Wang Wei , Luo Xiang
Published: August 2024

Background

Serum lipids are causally involved in the occurrence of atherosclerosis, but their roles in cerebral small vessel disease remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the causal roles of lipid or apolipoprotein traits in cerebral small vessel disease and to determine the effects of lipid‐lowering interventions on this disease.

Methods and Results

Data on genetic instruments of lipids/apolipoproteins, as well as characteristic cerebral small vessel disease manifestations, including small vessel stroke (SVS) and white matter hyperintensity (WMH), were obtained from publicly genome‐wide association studies. Through 2‐sample Mendelian randomization analyses, it was found that decreased levels of high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (odds ratio [OR], 0.85,
P
=0.007) and apolipoprotein A‐I (OR, 0.83,
P
=0.005), as well as increased level of triglycerides (OR, 1.16,
P
=0.025) were associated with a higher risk of SVS. A low level of high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (OR, 0.93,
P
=0.032) was associated with larger WMH volume. Specifically, the genetically determined expressions of lipid fractions in various size‐defined lipoprotein particles were more closely related to the risk of SVS than WMH. Moreover, it was found that the hypertension trait ranked at the top in mediating the causal effect of hyperlipidemia on SVS and WMH by using Mendelian randomization‐based mediation analysis. For drug‐target Mendelian randomization, the low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol‐reducing genetic variation alleles at
HMGCR
and
NL1CL1
genes and the high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol‐raising genetic variation alleles at the
CETP
gene were predicted to decrease the risk of SVS.

Conclusions

The present Mendelian randomization study indicates that genetically determined hyperlipidemia is closely associated with a higher risk of cerebral small vessel disease, especially SVS. Lipid‐lowering drugs could be potentially considered for the therapies and preventions of SVS rather than WMH.
Predictors and Long‐Term Clinical Impact of Heart Failure With Improved Ejection Fraction After Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Kim Kyung An , Kim Sang Hyun , Lee Kwan Yong , Yoon Andrew H. , Hwang Byung‐Hee , Choo Eun Ho , Kim Jin Jin , Choi Ik Jun , Kim Chan Joon , Lim Sungmin , Park Mahn‐Won , Yoo Ki‐Dong , Jeon Doo Soo , Ahn Youngkeun , Jeong Myung Ho , Chang Kiyuk
Published: August 2024

Background

Little is known about the characteristics and long‐term clinical outcomes of patients with heart failure with improved ejection fraction (HFimpEF) after acute myocardial infarction.

Methods and Results

From a multicenter, consecutive cohort of patients with acute myocardial infarction undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention, patients with an initial echocardiogram with left ventricular ejection fraction ≤40% and at least 1 follow‐up echocardiogram after 14 days and within 2 years of the initial event were considered for analyses. HFimpEF was defined as an initial left ventricular ejection fraction ≤40% and serial left ventricular ejection fraction >40% with an increase of ≥10% from baseline at follow‐up. Independent factors predicting HFimpEF were identified, and clinical outcomes of patients with HFimpEF were compared with those without improvement. From an initial cohort of 10 719 patients with acute myocardial infarction, 191 patients with HFimpEF and 256 patients with non‐HFimpEF who had initial and follow‐up echocardiographic data were analyzed. The median follow‐up duration was 4.5 (interquartile range, 2.9–5.0) years. The factors predicting HFimpEF were lower peak creatine kinase myocardial band, smaller left ventricular dimensions, lower ratio between early mitral inflow velocity and mitral annular early diastolic velocity ′, and the use of β blockers or renin–angiotensin system blockers at discharge. HFimpEF was associated with a significantly decreased risk of all‐cause death compared with non‐HFimpEF (hazard ratio, 0.377 [95% CI, 0.234–0.609];
P
<0.001). In 2‐year landmark analysis, these findings were consistent not only before but also after the landmark point. Similar findings were true for cardiovascular death and admission for heart failure.

Conclusions

Patients with HFimpEF after acute myocardial infarction showed distinct clinical and echocardiographic characteristics and were associated with better long‐term clinical outcomes.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique Identifier: NCT02806102.
Economic Benefits of Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement on Patients With Symptomatic Aortic Valve Regurgitation
Authors: Still Sasha Anne , Ryan Michael , Gunnarsson Candace , Heidrich Natalie , Davies James E.
Published: August 2024

Background

Aortic regurgitation is distinguished by the backflow of blood from the aorta into the left ventricle. American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association guidelines recommend surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) for patients with symptomatic aortic regurgitation (sAR). This study estimates the difference in mortality, health care use, and costs between patients with sAR who receive SAVR within 12 months of diagnosis versus those who do not.

Methods and Results

We used the Optum United Healthcare database to identify 132 317 patients diagnosed with sAR from 2016 to 2021 who had at least 6 months of enrollment before sAR and 12 months of enrollment after. Criteria were no history of aortic stenosis or transcatheter aortic valve replacement and ≥2 visits for heart failure, angina, dyspnea, or syncope. Outcomes were all‐cause mortality, health care use, and annualized cost. Baseline differences in demographics and comorbidities were adjusted with inverse propensity score weighting. We modeled survival and estimated health care use and costs using Cox proportional hazards and general linear models, respectively. Of the 132 317 patients, 400 underwent SAVR within 12 months of diagnosis. They were on average younger, more often men, and with a slightly higher Elixhauser Comorbidity Index score. After inverse propensity score weighting, patients with sAR who had SAVR had lower mortality, fewer inpatient and emergency department visits, fewer hospital days, and lower annualized cost.

Conclusions

SAVR performed within 12 months of an sAR diagnosis is associated with improved mortality and lower annualized health care use and costs. These clinical and economic benefits should be considered when managing patients with sAR.
Electrophysiological Mechanism of Catestatin Antiarrhythmia: Enhancement of
I
to
,
I
K,
and
I
K1
and Inhibition of
I
Ca
‐L
in Rat Ventricular Myocytes
Authors: Zhang Ying , Chen Hua , Ma Qingmin , Jia Hui , Ma Hongyu , Du Zishuo , Liu Yan , Zhang Xiangjian , Zhang Yi , Guan Yue , Ma Huijie
Published: August 2024

Background

Cardiovascular disease remains one of the leading causes of death globally. Myocardial ischemia and infarction, in particular, frequently cause disturbances in cardiac electrical activity that can trigger ventricular arrhythmias. We aimed to investigate whether catestatin, an endogenous catecholamine‐inhibiting peptide, ameliorates myocardial ischemia‐induced ventricular arrhythmias in rats and the underlying ionic mechanisms.

Methods and Results

Adult male Sprague‐Dawley rats were randomly divided into control and catestatin groups. Ventricular arrhythmias were induced by ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery and electrical stimulation. Action potential, transient outward potassium current, delayed rectifier potassium current, inward rectifying potassium current, and L‐type calcium current (
I
Ca‐L
) of rat ventricular myocytes were recorded using a patch‐clamp technique. Catestatin notably reduced ventricular arrhythmia caused by myocardial ischemia/reperfusion and electrical stimulation of rats. In ventricular myocytes, catestatin markedly shortened the action potential duration of ventricular myocytes, which was counteracted by potassium channel antagonists TEACl and 4‐AP, and
I
Ca‐L
current channel agonist Bay K8644. In addition, catestatin significantly increased transient outward potassium current, delayed rectifier potassium current, and inward rectifying potassium current density in a concentration‐dependent manner. Catestatin accelerated the activation and decelerated the inactivation of the transient outward potassium current channel. Furthermore, catestatin decreased
I
Ca‐L
current density in a concentration‐dependent manner. Catestatin also accelerated the inactivation of the
I
Ca‐L
channel and slowed down the recovery of
I
Ca‐L
from inactivation.

Conclusions

Catestatin enhances the activity of transient outward potassium current, delayed rectifier potassium current, and inward rectifying potassium current, while suppressing the
I
Ca‐L
in ventricular myocytes, leading to shortened action potential duration and ultimately reducing the ventricular arrhythmia in rats.
Impact of the Aortomitral Positional Anatomy on Atrioventricular Conduction Disorder Following Mitral Valve Surgery
Authors: Handa Kazuma , Kawamura Masashi , Yoshioka Daisuke , Saito Shunsuke , Kawamura Takuji , Kawamura Ai , Misumi Yusuke , Taira Masaki , Shimamura Kazuo , Komukai Sho , Kitamura Tetsuhisa , Miyagawa Shigeru
Published: August 2024

Background

Variations in the aortomitral positional anatomy, including aortic root rotation appear to be related to variations in the location of the conduction system, including the bundle of His. However, little is known about their clinical significance.

Methods and Results

This study included 147 patients with normal ECGs who underwent mitral valve surgery. The aortomitral anatomy was classified using preoperative 3‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography, and postoperative conduction disorders, including atrioventricular block and bundle branch block, were analyzed. Variations classified as aortomitral appearance were designated as having a center appearance (85.7%, n=126/147) or lateral appearance (14.3%, n=21/147) on the basis of whether the aortic root was located at the center or was shifted to the left fibrous trigone side. Subsequently, those with a center appearance, aortic root rotation was classified as having a center rotation (83.3% [n=105/126]), in which the commissure of the left and noncoronary aortic leaflet was located at the center, lateral rotation (14.3% [n=18/126]), rotated to the left trigone side, or medial rotation (2.4% [n=3/126]), rotated to the right. The incidence of 3‐month persistent new‐onset conduction disorder was higher in the lateral appearance than the center appearance group (21.1% versus 5.0%;
P
=0.031) and higher in the lateral rotation than in the center or medial rotation groups (29.4% versus 1.0% versus 0.0%, respectively;
P
<0.001).

Conclusions

Aortomitral variations can be classified using 3‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography. Lateral appearance and lateral rotation are risk factors for conduction disorders in mitral valve surgery.
Rationale and Design of the Australasian Registry of Screening ECGs in National Athletes Project
Authors: Orchard Jessica J. , La Gerche Andre , Puranik Rajesh , Raju Hariharan , Davis Angus J. , Eggleton Simon , Driscoll Tim , Lorimer Michelle , Doughty Robert N. , Hamilton Bruce , Drezner Jonathan A. , Orchard John W.
Published: August 2024

Background

Cardiac screening of elite athletes is widely recommended by Australasian sporting federations, but data are not structured to be shared. Data are lacking from underrepresented groups to inform ECG interpretation guidelines. The ARENA (Australasian Registry of Screening ECGs in National Athletes) project is a retrospective and prospective, multicenter, longitudinal, observational registry of athlete cardiac screening results and outcomes. The aim is to create a repository to improve our understanding of the diagnoses and outcomes of screening.

Methods

Participating sports that conduct cardiac screening of athletes will contribute data. This includes an initial collection (retrospective data, waiver of consent) and future prospective data (opt‐out consent). Data include sex, age, sport/event, screening date, ECG findings, cardiac test results, follow‐up details, sport participation status, cardiac diagnoses, and major cardiovascular outcomes defined as sudden cardiac arrest/death, cardiac syncope or implanted cardioverter defibrillator shock, cardiac hospitalization, and arrhythmias requiring intervention. Comparisons will be made between diagnoses, outcomes, and ECG features and analyzed by sport and sex. The ARENA project was developed in collaboration with sporting bodies, team physicians, and players association representatives and endorsed by the Australasian College of Sport & Exercise Physicians and Sports Medicine Australia.

Conclusions

The ARENA project will provide a long‐term international data repository to improve our understanding of ECG interpretation, cardiac screening and diagnoses, and the prevalence of cardiovascular outcomes in screened athletes. A unique aim is to address evidence gaps in underrepresented athlete groups, specifically female athletes and Indigenous populations. Results will inform screening policies and guidelines.
Curcuma ungmensis (Zingiberaceae): a new species from Nagaland, North-East India
Authors: SABU MAMIYIL , HAREESH VADAKKOOT SANKARAN , TIATEMSU PUNATEMJEN
Published: August 2024

Curcuma ungmensis M.Sabu, Hareesh and P.Tiatemsu sp. nov. from Mokokchung district of Nagaland state, India is described here. The new species shows affinities towards C. inodora but distinct in many attributes. Detailed description and distribution are provided along with colour photographs of the new species for easy identification.
On further specimens of Dussumier’s Mud Snake Dieurostus dussumierii (Duméril, Bibron & Duméril, 1854) with notes on its taxonomy, type material, and natural history (Reptilia: Serpentes: Homalopsidae)
Authors: SOUZA HUGO FRANCISCO DE , PAVUKANDY UMESH , GANESH S.R.
Published: August 2024

We present new findings on Dussumier’s Mud Snake Dieurostus dussumierii based on recent fieldwork conducted in and around Vembanad Lake (Kumarakom) in Kerala, Southwest India. We describe a series of 10 voucher specimens, eight females and two males, ranging from juveniles (207 mm) to adults (835 mm). We report new data on microhabitat associations, fossorial haunts, sympatric aquatic snakes (Fowlea cf. piscator, Cerberus rynchops), and intraspecific morphological variations in this species. We also illustrate and describe an overlooked, historical, non-type specimen of this species collected over a century ago. This work assembles the largest dataset of preserved voucher specimens used to characterize D. dussumierii, since its description 170 years ago.
First report of the family Attevidae (Lepidoptera, Yponomeutoidea) from Cambodia, with description of a new species
Authors: NA SOL-MOON , BAE YANG-SEOP
Published: August 2024

In the present study, we report a pantropical family Attevidae of the superfamily Yponomeutoidea in Cambodia for the first time. A new species, Atteva chalco sp. nov., and two newly recorded species, A. fabriciella Swederus, 1787, A. wallengreni Sohn and Wu, 2013 are reported. Illustrations of adults, male and female genitalia, diagnoses, and descriptions are provided.
Why Do We Do as We Do? How Do We Know What’s Best? Reflecting on the Methodological Challenges of Measurement in Initiatives Using Digital Technologies for Combating Corruption
Authors: Mineshima-Lowe Dale
Published: August 2024

This paper discusses the methodological challenges in the design of anti-corruption initiatives utilizing digital technologies. In particular, the focus is on the measurement problem. Using anti-corruption initiatives as case studies, two central issues are raised: firstly, examining and unpacking the rationale for how digital technologies are understood (and assumed) as useful for combating corruption. Secondly, identifying motives and drivers within these anti-corruption initiatives. As digital technology is further employed in anti-corruption initiatives, it seems a good point at present, to stop and reflect on how and why such initiatives are designed with digital technologies. The paper concludes that there is a need to include greater discussion about the underlying methodological challenges around measurements. It requires more openness in terms of the principles and the system of methods used for the selection of digital technologies, connecting choice to the identified objective, and the role of measurement to the objective.
Effects of Tongue Strength Training on Quality of Life in Head and Neck Cancer Patients: Results From a Pilot Interventional Clinical Trial
Authors: Culbert August , Fullerton Amy , Edwards Kaitlyn , Hitchcock Kathryn , Davenport Paul , Ku Jamie , Silver Natalie L
Published: August 2024

Background:

Head and neck cancer (HNC) patients often have dysphagia following surgical and/or chemoradiation treatment, which can lead to reduced quality of life. Some patients suffer from decreased tongue strength and mobility that may cause discomfort and difficulty with swallowing. Our group has developed a patented genioglossus muscle strength trainer (GMST) to increase tongue protrusive force that has been used in patients with sleep apnea. We hypothesized that the GMST device would increase tongue strength in the HNC population.

Methods:

We conducted an IRB approved, non-randomized, interventional clinical trial of HNC patients with dysphagia to determine the effect of GMST on tongue strength. Our secondary objective was to assess dysphagia quality of life, as determined by questionnaires. Genioglossus muscle strength measurements (measured in Newtons, N) and dysphagia quality of life scores (SWAL-QoL questionnaire) were obtained from enrolled patients at baseline and following 4 weeks of intervention. Treatment was at-home GMST exercise regimen 3 times daily, 5 days per week. Compliance was assessed via review of training logs. Two-sided paired t-tests at significance level α = .05 were performed to assess difference in mean GG muscle strength pre- and post-treatment.

Results:

Out of 10 patients initially enrolled, 7 patients completed the trial. Eighty-six percent were male and the average age was 60. About 5 patients had surgery plus adjuvant radiation and 2 patients had primary radiation. All patients had baseline dysphagia as determined by patient complaint and/or objective measurement (prior modified barium swallow). No adverse events were reported. We observed a statistically significant increase in genioglossus muscle strength (mean change: 4.0 N, 95% CI 1.1-6.9, P = .015) after 4 weeks of treatment. Patients reported reduced swallowing burden and feeling of stigma around eating based on SWAL-QoL results.

Conclusions:

Our data suggest that protrusive tongue-training exercises utilizing a novel tongue trainer device is well-tolerated and increases genioglossus muscle strength in treated HNC patients complaining of dysphagia. Patient-reported outcomes based on the SWAL-QoL survey indicate improvements in quality-of-life post-treatment, although our results are limited by small sample size. Larger studies are needed to see if this device could have clinically meaningful results for this difficult-to-treat patient population.
Securing the ‘great white shield’? Climate change, Arctic security and the geopolitics of solar geoengineering
Authors: Kornbech Nikolaj , Corry Olaf , McLaren Duncan
Published: August 2024

The Arctic has been identified by scientists as a relatively promising venue for controversial ‘solar geoengineering’ – technical schemes to reflect more sunlight to counteract global warming. Yet contemporary regional security dynamics and the relative (in)significance of climate concerns among the key Arctic states suggest a different conclusion. By systematically juxtaposing recently published schemes for Arctic geoengineering with Arctic security strategies published by the littoral Arctic states and China, we reveal and detail two conflicting security imaginaries. Geoengineering schemes scientifically securitise (and seek to maintain) the Arctic’s ‘great white shield’ to protect ‘global’ humanity against climate tipping points and invoke a past era of Arctic ‘exceptionality’ to suggest greater political feasibility for research interventions here. Meanwhile, state security imaginaries understand the contemporary Arctic as an increasingly contested region of considerable geopolitical peril and economic opportunity as temperatures rise. Alongside the entangled history of science with geopolitics in the region, this suggests that geoengineering schemes in the Arctic are unlikely to follow scientific visions, and unless co-opted into competitive, extractivist state security imaginaries, may prove entirely infeasible. Moreover, if the Arctic is the ‘best-case’ for geoengineering politics, this places a huge question mark over the feasibility of other, more global prospects.
Security Theatrics: The Role of Visual Cues in Simulated Attacker Target Selection
Authors: Behlendorf Brandon , Wilson Theodore
Published: August 2024

Visibly deterring potential adversaries is central to security risk assessment and planning operations within many agencies including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Many visible security elements are employed by TSA toward these goals. Questions remain whether these elements deter/displace attackers, and answers are elusive in these data-poor contexts. Using a novel adversarial exercise with a national sample, our paired conjoint experiment across visibly-changing aviation environments finds the majority of tested security infrastructure visibly deterred simulated adversaries. Canine officer presence deterred, biometric scanners induced, and queue density had no appreciable effect upon target selection. Our findings offer useful criminological insights, clear policy applications, and novel quantitative methods for assessing visible deterrent processes in limited data environments.
An Assessment of the Harms Associated With Ideologically Motivated Cyberattacks
Authors: Holt Thomas J. , Chermak Steven , Freilich Joshua D. , Turner Noah D. , Greene-Colozzi Emily
Published: August 2024

There has been a dramatic increase in research on terrorism and extremist activities over the last two decades. Despite this growth, the majority of studies focus on either the harm caused by ideologically-motivated violence in physical spaces, or the ways in which individuals radicalize and organize in online spaces. There is growing evidence that traditional extremist groups and terrorists engage in cyberattacks, such as computer hacking, in support of their ideological beliefs. Little is known about the degree to which ideologically-motivated cyberattacks cause harm to victims, and the correlates of harm depending on the nature of the attack. This study attempts to address this gap in the literature through a quantitative analysis of 425 victims of 246 cyberattacks captured in the open-source Extremist CyberCrime Database (ECCD). Using situational crime prevention, this analysis attempts to identify the significant factors associated with the loss of time, data, and financial harm experienced by victims of cyberattacks performed by ideological actors with and without state sponsorship. The findings demonstrate that the forms of attack reported, as well as the unique attack methods, such as zero-day vulnerabilities, are more likely to lead victims to report the loss of time to the victim, as well as sensitive data and financial losses. The target type is also associated with the loss of both time and sensitive data, however there is no relationship between targets and the financial losses reported from cyberattacks. Additionally, financial harm was more likely to result from non-state sponsored ideological actors, such as racial and ethnically motivated individuals and jihadists. This analysis demonstrates support for the application of situational crime prevention frameworks traditionally used for physical terrorism to virtual ideological attacks. Further, this study demonstrates the importance of assessing cyberattacks as a form of ideologically-motivated crime. Finally, the findings demonstrate the need for increased resources to improve the state of cybersecurity for individuals, businesses, and government agencies to reduce the risk of harm associated with cyberattacks performed by both nation-state sponsored and non-state ideological actors alike.
Personality Profiles Among Honors and Regular Undergraduate Students: Associations With Well-Being and Strategies for Coping With Stress
Authors: Mammadov Sakhavat , Lockhart Dana , Rinn Anne , Ward Thomas J.
Published: August 2024

The aim of this study was two-fold: (a) to explore personality profiles among honors undergraduate students and regular undergraduate students, and (b) to investigate the extent to which these profiles are associated with students’ well-being and coping strategies for stress. Using latent class analysis (LCA) on the Big Five personality traits of a total of 532 undergraduate students (229 honors students), we identified three distinct profiles: Overcontrollers, Averages, and Resilients. Honors students were underrepresented in the Averages profile. No significant disproportionality was observed in the other two profiles. Resilients had the highest well-being scores and showed a greater tendency to engage in proactive problem-solving when faced with stress. In contrast, Overcontrollers leaned toward using accountability and self-critique as their primary coping strategy. Findings are discussed in the context of replicable personality prototypes and in relationship to prior research involving honors and academically advanced students.