bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study Design and Protocol of the Multisite Pregnancy 24/7 Cohort Study
Authors: Whitaker Kara M , Jones Melissa A , Smith Karina , Catov Janet , Feghali Maisa , Kline Christopher E , Santillan Mark , Santillan Donna , Zimmerman Bridget , Gibbs Bethany Barone
Published: November 2023

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and other adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs) are associated with an increased risk of future maternal cardiovascular disease. Physical activity during pregnancy reduces the risk of these APOs, yet few meet physical activity guidelines during pregnancy. Little is known about the role of sedentary behavior or sleep in APOs, a critical gap in knowledge given these behaviors comprise the majority of a 24-hour day. To address this knowledge gap, the Pregnancy 24/7 cohort study (2020–2025) uses 2 devices for 24-hour activity assessment in each trimester of pregnancy to examine associations of sedentary behavior, sleep, and the 24-hour activity cycle (composition of sedentary behavior, physical activity, and sleep) with hypertensive disorders and other APOs. Participants (n = 500) are recruited from the University of Iowa, University of Pittsburgh, and West Virginia University in early pregnancy and followed through delivery. The activPAL3 micro and Actiwatch Spectrum Plus are worn in each trimester for 7 days of 24-hour wear to assess the 24-hour activity cycle. APOs are abstracted from medical charts. This study will provide critical data to fuel future research examining how modifying the 24-hour activity cycle in pregnancy can improve maternal health.
A Segmented Regression Analysis of Household Income and Recurrent Falls Among Adults in a National Cohort Study
Authors: Brown Janene , Hirsch Jana A. , Tabb Loni Philip , Judd Suzanne E , Bennett Aleena , Rundle Andrew , Lovasi Gina S
Published: November 2023

Falls can have life-altering consequences for older adults, including extended recovery periods and compromised independence. Higher household income may mitigate the risk of falls by providing financial resources for mobility tools, remediation of environmental hazards, and needed supports, or it may buffer the impact of an initial fall on subsequent risk through improved assistance and care. Household income has not had a consistently observed association with falls in older adults; however, a segmented association may exist such that associations are attenuated above a certain income threshold. In this study, we utilized segmented negative binomial regression analysis to examine the association between household income and recurrent falls among 2,302 participants in the Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) Study recruited between 2003 and 2007. Income-fall association segments separated by changes in slope were considered. Model results indicated a 2-segment association between household income and recurrent falls in the past year. In the range below the breakpoint, household income was negatively associated with the rate of recurrent falls across all age groups examined; in a higher income range (from $20,000–$49,999 to ≥$150,000), the association was attenuated (weaker negative trend) or reversed (positive trend). These findings point to potential benefits of ensuring that incomes for lower-income adults exceed the threshold needed to confer a reduced risk of recurrent falls.
Double-Negative Results Matter: A Reevaluation of Sensitivities for Detecting SARS-CoV-2 Infection Using Saliva Versus Nasopharyngeal Swabs
Authors: Wang Zheng , Liu Yu-Lun , Chen Yong , Siegel Lianne , Cappelleri Joseph C , Chu Haitao
Published: November 2023

In a recent systematic review, Bastos et al. (Ann Intern Med. 2021;174(4):501–510) compared the sensitivities of saliva sampling and nasopharyngeal swabs in the detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection by assuming a composite reference standard defined as positive if either test is positive and negative if both tests are negative (double negative). Even under a perfect specificity assumption, this approach ignores the double-negative results and risks overestimating the sensitivities due to residual misclassification. In this article, we first illustrate the impact of double-negative results in the estimation of the sensitivities in a single study, and then propose a 2-step latent class meta-analysis method for reevaluating both sensitivities using the same published data set as that used in Bastos et al. by properly including the observed double-negative results. We also conduct extensive simulation studies to compare the performance of the proposed method with Bastos et al.’s method for varied levels of prevalence and between-study heterogeneity. The results demonstrate that the sensitivities are overestimated noticeably using Bastos et al.’s method, and the proposed method provides a more accurate evaluation with nearly no bias and close-to-nominal coverage probability. In conclusion, double-negative results can significantly impact the estimated sensitivities when a gold standard is absent, and thus they should be properly incorporated.
Marshall Joffe’s Contributions to Causal Inference, Biostatistics, and Epidemiology
Authors: Isenberg Dane , Kennedy Edward H , Landis J Richard , Mitra Nandita , Robins James M , Roy Jason , Stephens-Shields Alisa J , Yang Wei , Small Dylan S
Published: November 2023

We pay tribute to Marshall Joffe, PhD, and his substantial contributions to the field of causal inference with focus in biostatistics and epidemiology. By compiling narratives written by us, his colleagues, we not only present highlights of Marshall’s research and their significance for causal inference but also offer a portrayal of Marshall’s personal accomplishments and character. Our discussion of Marshall’s research notably includes (but is not limited to) handling of posttreatment variables such as noncompliance, employing G-estimation for treatment effects on failure-time outcomes, estimating effects of time-varying exposures subject to time-dependent confounding, and developing a causal framework for case-control studies. We also provide a description of some of Marshall’s unpublished work, which is accompanied by a bonus anecdote. We discuss future research directions related to Marshall’s research. While Marshall’s impact in causal inference and the world outside of it cannot be wholly captured by our words, we hope nonetheless to present some of what he has done for our field and what he has meant to us and to his loved ones.
Long-term outcomes and adverse effects of teduglutide in patients with short bowel syndrome: Highlighting hyperamylasemia and hyperlipasemia
Authors: Kim Dong Wook , Kim Eunju , Bertram Kyle , Rim Daniel Sungku , Nolen-Doerr Eric , Shin Jeong-Hun
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Short bowel syndrome is a malabsorptive condition that occurs due to surgical removal or a congenital absence of a significant portion of the small intestine. Patients with short bowel syndrome often rely on parenteral support for extended periods or even their entire lives. Teduglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-2 analog, has shown promising results in reducing dependency on parenteral support in these patients by promoting intestinal adaptation and enhancing nutrient absorption. However, the long-term safety of teduglutide remains a concern, particularly with respect to its potential for the development of hyperamylasemia and hyperlipasemia.

Methods

This study involved patients who received teduglutide from December 2012 to December 2022 at Boston Medical Center. We evaluated outcomes and adverse events, focusing on hyperamylasemia and hyperlipasemia, through chart review.

Results

Thirteen eligible patients were identified who had used teduglutide. Of these, the majority (84.6%) experienced a reduction in parenteral support. A high incidence (72.7%) of nonpathological pancreatic enzyme elevation was observed in patients treated with teduglutide. These elevations were often dose dependent and were not associated with any clinical signs of acute pancreatitis or abnormal imaging findings.

Conclusion

This study highlights the need for further investigations into the long-term safety of teduglutide and the importance of closely monitoring amylase and lipase levels in patients undergoing treatment with teduglutide.
SSLpheno: a self-supervised learning approach for gene–phenotype association prediction using protein–protein interactions and gene ontology data
Authors: Bi Xuehua , Liang Weiyang , Zhao Qichang , Wang Jianxin
Published: November 2023

Motivation

Medical genomics faces significant challenges in interpreting disease phenotype and genetic heterogeneity. Despite the establishment of standardized disease phenotype databases, computational methods for predicting gene–phenotype associations still suffer from imbalanced category distribution and a lack of labeled data in small categories.

Results

To address the problem of labeled-data scarcity, we propose a self-supervised learning strategy for gene–phenotype association prediction, called SSLpheno. Our approach utilizes an attributed network that integrates protein–protein interactions and gene ontology data. We apply a Laplacian-based filter to ensure feature smoothness and use self-supervised training to optimize node feature representation. Specifically, we calculate the cosine similarity of feature vectors and select positive and negative sample nodes for reconstruction training labels. We employ a deep neural network for multi-label classification of phenotypes in the downstream task. Our experimental results demonstrate that SSLpheno outperforms state-of-the-art methods, especially in categories with fewer annotations. Moreover, our case studies illustrate the potential of SSLpheno as an effective prescreening tool for gene–phenotype association identification.

Availability and implementation

https://github.com/bixuehua/SSLpheno.
Lebrikizumab improved itch and reduced the extent of itch interference on sleep in patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis: two randomized, placebo-controlled, phase III trials
Authors: Yosipovitch Gil , Lio Peter A , Rosmarin David , Serra-Baldrich Esther , Legat Franz J , Casillas Marta , Pierce Evangeline , Liu Zhuqing , Sun Luna , Elmaraghy Hany , Ständer Sonja
Published: November 2023

Itch and sleep loss due to itch are prevalent symptoms of moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis, significantly impairing patients’ quality of life and wellbeing. First-line topical therapy is insufficient for most patients and there is an unmet need for effective treatments that provide symptom relief and quality of life improvement. In two randomized, placebo-controlled, phase III trials, significantly more patients treated with the novel monoclonal antibody lebrikizumab had ≥ 3-point improvement in Pruritus Numeric Rating Scale by week 16 vs. patients treated with placebo. In addition, significantly more patients treated with lebrikizumab achieved ≥ 1-point improvement in Sleep-Loss Scale score by week 16 vs. placebo. Onset of itch relief was rapid, occurring within the first few days of treatment.
Effectiveness of antibacterial therapeutic clothing vs. nonantibacterial therapeutic clothing in patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis: a randomized controlled observer-blind pragmatic trial (ABC trial)
Authors: Ragamin Aviël , Schappin Renske , de Graaf Marlies , Tupker Ron A , Fieten Karin B , van Mierlo Minke M F , Bronner Madelon B , Romeijn Geertruida L E , Sloot Manon M , Boesjes Celeste M , van der Rijst Lisa P , Arents Bernd W M , Rustemeyer Thomas , Schuttelaar Marie L A , Pasmans Suzanne G M A
Published: November 2023

Background

Increased Staphylococcus aureus (SA) colonization is considered an important factor in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis (AD). Antibacterial therapeutic clothing aims to reduce SA colonization and AD inflammation; however, its role in the management of AD remains poorly understood.

Objectives

To investigate the effectiveness of antibacterial therapeutic clothing + standard topical treatment in patients with moderate-to-severe AD vs. standard therapeutic clothing + standard topical treatment; and, if effectiveness was demonstrated, to demonstrate its cost-effectiveness.

Methods

A pragmatic double-blinded multicentre randomized controlled trial (NCT04297215) was conducted in patients of all ages with moderate-to-severe AD. Patients were centrally randomized 1 : 1 : 1 to receive standard therapeutic clothing or antibacterial clothing based on chitosan or silver. The primary outcome was the between-group difference in Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) measured over 52 weeks. Secondary outcomes included patient-reported outcomes (PROs), topical corticosteroid (TCS) use, SA colonization, safety and cost-effectiveness. Outcomes were assessed by means of (generalized) linear mixed-model analyses.

Results

Between 16 March 2020 and 20 December 2021, 171 patients were enrolled. In total, 159 patients were included (54 in the standard therapeutic clothing group, 50 in the chitosan group and 55 in the silver group). Adherence was high [median 7 nights a week wear (interquartile range 3–7)]. Median EASI scores at baseline and at 4, 12, 26 and 52 weeks were 11.8, 4.3, 4.6, 4.2 and 3.6, respectively, in the standard therapeutic clothing group vs. 11.3, 5.0, 3.0, 3.0 and 4.4, respectively, in the chitosan group, and 11.6, 5.0, 5.4, 4.6 and 5.8, respectively, in the silver group. No differences in EASI over 52 weeks between the standard therapeutic clothing group, the chitosan group [–0.1, 95% confidence interval (CI) –0.3 to 0.2; P = 0.53] or the silver group (–0.1, 95% CI –0.3 to 0.2; P = 0.58) were found. However, a small significant group × time interaction effect between the standard and silver groups was found (P = 0.03), in which the silver group performed worse after 26 weeks. No differences between groups were found in PROs, TCS use, SA skin colonization and healthcare utilization. No severe adverse events or silver absorption were observed.

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest no additional benefits of antibacterial agents in therapeutic clothing in patients with moderate-to-severe AD.
Vortioxetine for the treatment of post-COVID-19 condition: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: McIntyre Roger S , Phan Lee , Kwan Angela T H , Mansur Rodrigo B , Rosenblat Joshua D , Guo Ziji , Le Gia Han , Lui Leanna M W , Teopiz Kayla M , Ceban Felicia , Lee Yena , Bailey Julia , Ramachandra Ranuk , Di Vincenzo Joshua , Badulescu Sebastian , Gill Hartej , Drzadzewski Pawel , Subramaniapillai Mehala
Published: November 2023

Hitherto no therapeutic has received regulatory approval for the treatment of post-COVID-19 condition (PCC). Cognitive deficits, mood symptoms and significant reduction in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) are highly replicated and debilitating aspects of PCC. We sought to determine the impact of vortioxetine on the foregoing symptoms and HRQoL in persons living with PCC.

An 8-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of adults ≥ 18 years of age residing in Canada and who are experiencing symptoms of World Health Organization (WHO)-defined PCC, with a history of confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection, was conducted. Recruitment began November 2021 and ended January 2023. Of the 200 participants enrolled (487 invited: 121 ineligible and 59 eligible but declined participation; 307 cleared pre-screening stage), a total of 149 participants were randomized (1:1) to receive either vortioxetine (5–20 mg, n = 75) or placebo (n = 74) daily for 8 weeks of double-blind treatment (i.e. end point). The primary outcome was the change from baseline-to-end point in the Digit Symbol Substitution Test. Secondary outcomes included the effect on depressive symptoms and HRQoL, as measured by changes from baseline-to-end point on the Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology 16-item and WHO Wellbeing Scale 5-item, respectively.

A total of 68 (90.7%) participants randomized to vortioxetine and 73 (98.6%) participants randomized to placebo completed all 8 weeks. Between-group analysis did not show a significant difference in the overall change in cognitive function [P = 0.361, 95% confidence interval (CI) (−0.179, 0.492)]. However, in the fully adjusted model, a significant treatment × time interaction was observed in favour of vortioxetine treatment with baseline c-reactive protein (CRP) as a moderator (P = 0.012). In addition, a significant improvement in Digit Symbol Substitution Test scores were observed in vortioxetine versus placebo treated participants in those whose baseline CRP was above the mean (P = 0.045). Moreover, significant improvement was obtained in measures of depressive symptoms [P < 0.001, 95% CI (−4.378, −2.323)] and HRQoL [P < 0.001, 95% CI (2.297, 4.647)] in vortioxetine-treated participants and between the treatment groups [depressive symptoms: P = 0.026, 95% CI (−2.847, −0.185); HRQoL: P = 0.004, 95% CI (0.774, 3.938)].

Although vortioxetine did not improve cognitive function in the unadjusted model, when adjusting for CRP, a significant pro-cognitive effect was observed; antidepressant effects and improvement in HRQoL in this debilitating disorder were also noted.
Argentine dermatology and ChatGPT: infrequent use and intermediate stance
Authors: Ko Ery A , Torre Ana C , Hernandez Barbara , Bibiloni Nuria , Covián Esteban , Salerni Gabriel , Alonso Carlos , Ochoa Ana K , Mazzuoccolo Luis D
Published: November 2023

In this study, we assessed ChatGPT adoption and perception among Argentinian dermatologists. Our email survey reveals that while most are aware of ChatGPT, infrequent use and intermediate stance stem from concerns over reliability and ethics. Nevertheless, a strong interest in specialized AI training indicates recognition of its potential in dermatology.
Intensive whole-brain 7T MRI case study of volitional control of brain activity in deep absorptive meditation states
Authors: Yang Winson Fu Zun , Chowdhury Avijit , Bianciardi Marta , van Lutterveld Remko , Sparby Terje , Sacchet Matthew D
Published: November 2023

Jhanas are profound states of mind achieved through advanced meditation, offering valuable insights into the nature of consciousness and tools to enhance well-being. Yet, its neurophenomenology remains limited due to methodological difficulties and the rarity of advanced meditation practitioners. We conducted a highly exploratory study to investigate the neurophenomenology of jhanas in an intensively sampled adept meditator case study (4 hr 7T fMRI collected in 27 sessions) who performed jhana meditation and rated specific aspects of experience immediately thereafter. Linear mixed models and correlations were used to examine relations among brain activity and jhana phenomenology. We identified distinctive patterns of brain activity in specific cortical, subcortical, brainstem, and cerebellar regions associated with jhana. Furthermore, we observed correlations between brain activity and phenomenological qualities of attention, jhanic qualities, and narrative processing, highlighting the distinct nature of jhanas compared to non-meditative states. Our study presents the most rigorous evidence yet that jhana practice deconstructs consciousness, offering unique insights into consciousness and significant implications for mental health and well-being.
Giant proximal left anterior descending aneurysm causing multi-vessel myocardial ischaemia: the pressure is on—a case report
Authors: Rutherford Alexander , Chandrasekaran Badrinathan , Petrou Mario , Ramcharitar Steve
Published: November 2023

Background

Giant coronary artery aneurysms are a rare cause of myocardial ischaemia. Due to the rarity and variety of presentation of these cases, no standardized investigation or treatment has been established for management. We report a case study of a giant proximal left anterior descending (LAD) coronary aneurysm causing myocardial ischaemia due to the pressure effect from the weight of the aneurysm as well as from a change in rheology from a ‘steal effect’ on both the LAD and left circumflex (LCx) arteries.

Case summary

A 55-year-old patient presents initially with a history of angina. Initial investigation with computed tomography (CT) was suboptimal, requiring invasive diagnostic angiography, which detects a giant proximal LAD aneurysm. Subsequent investigations, with CT-fractional flow reserve (FFR) and stress echocardiography (ECHO), correlated to identify multi-vessel ischaemia resulting from the aneurysm. The patient was managed with multi-disciplinary team–led surgical resection and triple coronary artery bypass grafts with good results.

Discussion

This case highlights the complexity of coronary anomalies and importance of additional functional three-dimensional imaging on top of the static computational tomography coronary angiography analysis. Together, these two complimentary investigations qualitatively enabled the assessment of anomaly with surrounding structures such that the possibility of a mass effect on the LCx artery results in a positive stress test. Furthermore, this is a novel use of CT-FFR for coronary anomalies and it demonstrated good correlation of LAD territory ischaemia between CT-FFR and the stress ECHO.
Severe mitral stenosis masquerading as cardiogenic shock successfully managed with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and percutaneous mitral commissurotomy: a case report
Authors: Jalil Syed , Ahmed Ashraf , Abdalla Mahmoud , Al-Hijji Mohammed
Published: November 2023

Background

Rheumatic fever is still a major cause of mitral valve (MV) stenosis in the developing world. Few patients with critical rheumatic MV stenosis can present with acute cardiogenic shock (CS) that requires urgent treatment with circulatory support and definitive valvular repair or replacement.

Case summary

A 37-year-old gentleman was admitted with heart failure, CS Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions D, and atrial fibrillation with a rapid ventricular response. He had no prior medical history. He had multiple organ failures and required intubation, two DC shocks of 200 joules without haemodynamic improvement, continuous renal replacement therapy, and medical and mechanical circulatory support using extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). His echocardiography showed severe rheumatic mitral stenosis (mitral valve area 2D of 0.7 cm2, mean diastolic gradient of 17 mmHg, Wilkins score 7). His Society of Thoracic Surgery score and EuroScore were 50.1% and 12.1%, respectively. Thus, a percutaneous transcatheter mitral commissurotomy (PTMC) was decided as the definitive treatment in a multidisciplinary team meeting. Following the procedure, the patient’s circulatory support was gradually weaned off, and he was successfully extubated with a marked improvement in his renal functions. The patient achieved a complete recovery without any long-term sequelae.

Discussion

Cardiogenic shock related to severe rheumatic MV stenosis requires multidisciplinary team management with prompt diagnosis, initiation of the most appropriate mechanical support device (e.g. ECMO or tandem heart), and relief of the MV obstruction. Percutaneous transcatheter mitral commissurotomy can be the preferred option in this setting if the valve is pliable.
Endpoint adjudication in cardiovascular clinical trials
Authors: Khan Muhammad Shahzeb , Usman Muhammad Shariq , Van Spall Harriette G C , Greene Stephen J , Baqal Omar , Felker Gary Michael , Bhatt Deepak L , Januzzi James L , Butler Javed
Published: November 2023

Endpoint adjudication (EA) is a common feature of contemporary randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in cardiovascular medicine. Endpoint adjudication refers to a process wherein a group of expert reviewers, known as the clinical endpoint committee (CEC), verify potential endpoints identified by site investigators. Events that are determined by the CEC to meet pre-specified trial definitions are then utilized for analysis. The rationale behind the use of EA is that it may lessen the potential misclassification of clinical events, thereby reducing statistical noise and bias. However, it has been questioned whether this is universally true, especially given that EA significantly increases the time, effort, and resources required to conduct a trial. Herein, we compare the summary estimates obtained using adjudicated vs. non-adjudicated site designated endpoints in major cardiovascular RCTs in which both were reported. Based on these data, we lay out a framework to determine which trials may warrant EA and where it may be redundant. The value of EA is likely greater when cardiovascular trials have nuanced primary endpoints, endpoint definitions that align poorly with practice, sub-optimal data completeness, greater operator variability, and lack of blinding. EA may not be needed if the primary endpoint is all-cause death or all-cause hospitalization. In contrast, EA is likely merited for more nuanced endpoints such as myocardial infarction, bleeding, worsening heart failure as an outpatient, unstable angina, or transient ischaemic attack. A risk-based approach to adjudication can potentially allow compromise between costs and accuracy. This would involve adjudication of a small proportion of events, with further adjudication done if inconsistencies are detected.
Reliable Contributors? Leadership Turnover, Regime Type, and Commitments to Peacekeeping
Authors: Oestman Jared , Passmore Timothy J A
Published: November 2023

While studies have investigated why states contribute personnel to peacekeeping operations, little consideration has been given to how domestic political factors influence state contributions. We argue that changes in executive power that involve a shift in the domestic source of leadership support cause fluctuations in troop deployments, leading to inconsistent contribution behavior. However, we argue that this effect is attenuated in more democratic states since greater overlaps in the preferences of domestic groups are present and political institutions exist to constrain major policy shifts. Analysis of state troop commitments to UN peacekeeping from 1991 to 2018 supports this argument. This research highlights the often overlooked role of domestic policy processes in peacekeeping contributions while moving beyond considering why some states contribute relatively more personnel to address variation within countries. The findings indicate that while democracies typically contribute fewer peacekeepers, they tend to be more consistent contributors in the face of leadership turnover.
Needs for Aging in Place: Views of Older Moroccan Adults in the Netherlands
Authors: Hussein Hager , Cramm Jane Murray , Nieboer Anna Petra
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives

Due to health and/or financial limitations, older migrants may become especially dependent on their neighborhoods, highlighting the importance of investigating their experiences. We explored older Moroccan adults’ views on the relative importance of neighborhood resources for aging in place.

Research Design and Methods

Thirty Moroccans aged ≥65 years residing in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht were interviewed and asked to perform a ranking task developed with the combined quantitative and qualitative Q methodology. They ranked the relative importance of 38 statements representing the World Health Organization’s 8 global age-friendly cities domains, with explanation of their reasoning. By-person factor analysis was performed to identify factors representing distinct viewpoints, which were interpreted with reference to the interviewees’ comments.

Results

Four viewpoints were identified: “home sweet home”; “connected, well-informed, and engaged”; “suitable and affordable living”; and “a lively neighborhood.” The perceived importance of neighborhood resources for aging in place differed among viewpoints.

Discussion and Implications

Older Moroccan adults prioritize different neighborhood resources for aging in place. Our findings suggest that their diverse needs can be satisfied by enabling family to live in close proximity, providing diverse, inclusive neighborhoods with affordable, suitable housing, understandable information, social/cultural activities, and care services for vulnerable groups. Future studies may build on our findings to explore older (migrant) adults’ views on needs for aging in place in the Netherlands and other western countries.
Perceptions of Hospital Care for Persons With Dementia During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Social Media Sentiment Analysis
Authors: Ménard Alixe , O’Sullivan Tracey , Mulvey Michael , Belanger Christopher , Fraser Sarah
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic led to many hospital service disruptions and strict visitor restrictions that affected care of older adult populations. This study investigates perceptions of hospital care for persons with dementia during the COVID-19 pandemic as shared on Reddit’s social media platform.

Research Design and Methods

This study combined an Opinion Mining Framework with linguistic processing to conduct a sentiment analysis of word clusters and care-based content in a sample of 1,205 posts shared between February 2020 and March 2023 in Reddit’s English-language corpus. Data were classified based on reoccurring contiguous sequences of 2 words from our text sample.

Results

Hospital dementia care discourse on Reddit advanced 4 negative sentiment themes: (1) fear of poor medication management, hydration, and hygiene, (2) loss of patient advocacy, (3) precipitation of advance directive discussions, and (4) delayed discharge and loss of nursing home bed. One positive sentiment theme also emerged: gratitude toward hospital staff.

Discussion and Implications

Negative sentiment Reddit posts constituted a larger share of the posts than positive posts regarding hospital care for persons with dementia. People who posted about their experiences shared their concerns about hospital care deficiencies and the importance of including informal caregivers in hospital settings, particularly in the context of a pandemic. Implications exist for dementia training, improved quality of care, advance care planning, and transitions in care policies.
GM1 ganglioside protects against LPS-induced neuroinflammatory and oxidative responses by inhibiting the activation of Akt, TAK1 and NADPH oxidase in MG6 microglial cells
Authors: Yeh Ting-Yin , Chu Wen-Jui , Huang Yuahn-Sieh
Published: November 2023

GM1 is a major brain ganglioside that exerts neurotrophic, neuroprotective and antineuroinflammatory effects. The aim of this study was to obtain insights into the antineuroinflammatory mechanisms of exogenous GM1 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated MG6 mouse transformed microglial cell line. First, we found that GM1 prevented the LPS-induced transformation of microglia into an amoeboid-like shape. GM1 treatment inhibited LPS-induced expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 in MG6 cells. In LPS-treated mice, GM1 also reduced striatal microglia activation and attenuated COX-2 expression. Subsequent mechanistic studies showed that GM1 suppressed LPS-induced nuclear translocation of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) and activator protein-1 (AP-1), two critical transcription factors responsible for the production of proinflammatory mediators. GM1 exhibited antineuroinflammatory properties by suppressing Akt/NF-κB signaling and the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), including p38 MAPK, extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). Furthermore, GM1 suppressed LPS-induced activation of transforming growth factor-β-activated kinase 1 (TAK1) and NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX2), upstream regulators of the IκBα/NF-κB and MAPK/AP-1 signaling pathways. GM1 also inhibited NOX-mediated reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and protected against LPS-induced MG6 cell death, suggesting an antioxidant role of GM1. In conclusion, GM1 exerts both antineuroinflammatory and antioxidative effects by inhibiting Akt, TAK1 and NOX2 activation.
Maternal self-reported polycystic ovary syndrome with offspring and maternal cardiometabolic outcomes
Authors: Polinski K J , Robinson S L , Putnick D L , Sundaram R , Ghassabian A , Joseph P , Gomez-Lobo V , Bell E M , Yeung E H
Published: November 2023

STUDY QUESTION

Do children born to mothers with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have an adverse cardiometabolic profile including arterial stiffness at 9 years of age compared to other children?

SUMMARY ANSWER

Children of mothers with PCOS did not have differing cardiometabolic outcomes than children without exposure.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

While women with PCOS themselves have higher risk of cardiometabolic conditions such as obesity and diabetes, the evidence on intergenerational impact is unclear. Given in utero sequalae of PCOS (e.g. hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance), the increased risk could be to both boys and girls.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION

The Upstate KIDS cohort is a population-based birth cohort established in 2008–2010 to prospectively study the impact of infertility treatment on children’s health. After ∼10 years of follow-up, 446 mothers and their 556 children attended clinical visits to measure blood pressure (BP), heart rate, arterial stiffness by pulse wave velocity (PWV), mean arterial pressure, lipids, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and anthropometrics.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

Women self-reported ever diagnoses of PCOS ∼4 months after delivery of their children in 2008–2010. Linear regression models applying generalized estimating equations to account for correlation within twins were used to examine associations with each childhood cardiometabolic outcome.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

In this cohort with women oversampled on infertility treatment, ∼14% of women reported a PCOS diagnosis (n = 61). We observed similarities in BP, heart rate, PWV, lipids, hsCRP, HbA1c, and anthropometry (P-values >0.05) among children born to mothers with and without PCOS. Associations did not differ by child sex.

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION

The sample size of women with PCOS precluded further separation of subgroups (e.g. by hirsutism). The population-based approach relied on self-reported diagnosis of maternal PCOS even though self-report has been found to be valid. Participants were predominantly non-Hispanic White and a high proportion were using fertility treatment due to the original design. Differences in cardiometabolic health may be apparent later in age, such as after puberty.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

Our results provide some reassurance that cardiometabolic factors do not differ in children of women with and without self-reported PCOS during pregnancy.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)

Supported by the Intramural Research Program of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, United States (contracts #HHSN275201200005C, #HHSN267200700019C, #HHSN275201400013C, #HHSN275201300026I/27500004, #HHSN275201300023I/27500017). The authors have no conflicts of interest.

REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT03106493
Relative Fontaine–Messing Theory Over Power Series Rings
Authors: Liu Tong , Moon Yong Suk , Patel Deepam
Published: November 2023

Let $k$ be a perfect field of characteristic $p>2$, $R := W(k)[\![t_{1}, \dots , t_{d}]\!]$ be the power series ring over the Witt vectors, and $X$ be a smooth proper scheme over $R$. The main goal of this article is to extend classical Fontaine–Messing theory [ 13] to the setting where the base ring is $R$. In particular, we obtain comparison theorems between torsion crystalline cohomology of $X/R$ and torsion étale cohomology in this setting.
Smart container port development: recent technologies and research advances
Authors: Wang Wenyuan , Peng Yun , Xu Xinglu , Li Xiangda , Liu Huakun , Liu Suri , Yan Xinru
Published: November 2023

Smart port construction projects have gradually emerged across the world in recent years, owing to the rapid development of Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, Cloud, and the Internet of Things (IoT). However, for the advantages and limitations of smart port project construction technology and construction methods, people temporarily lack a systematic understanding and summary. In this article, by checking the number of publications, geographical distribution and keyword cluster distribution, the research status and technical progress of the development of smart container ports are comprehensively reviewed from three aspects: port data acquisition technology, facilities and equipment, and intelligent decision-making. The research conclusions can provide references for the development of smart container ports and guide the future development of smart container ports.
Structural characteristics and functional properties of a fucose containing prebiotic exopolysaccharide from Bifidobacterium breve NCIM 5671
Authors: Baruah Rwivoo , Kumar P Pramod , Gangani Surabhi , Prashanth K V Harish , Halami Prakash M
Published: November 2023

Aim

To evaluate the structure and functions of capsular exopolysaccharide (CPS) from Bifidobacterium breve NCIM 5671.

Methods and results

A CPS produced by the probiotic bacteria B. breve NCIM 5671 was isolated and subjected to characterization through GC analysis, which indicated the presence of rhamnose, fucose, galactose, and glucose in a molar ratio of 3:1:5:3. The average molecular weight of the CPS was determined to be ∼8.5 × 105 Da. Further, NMR analysis revealed the probable CPS structure to be composed of major branched tetra- and penta-saccharide units alternately repeating and having both α- and β-configuration sugar residues. CPS displayed an encouraging prebiotic score for some of the studied probiotic bacteria. Compared to standard inulin, CPS showed better resistance to digestibility against human GI tract in vitro. DPPH, total antioxidant, and ferric reducing assays carried out for CPS displayed decent antioxidant activity too.

Conclusion

This study indicates that the CPS from B. breve NCIM 5671 has the potential to be utilized as a prebiotic food supplement. It is a high-molecular-weight (∼8.5 × 105 Da) capsular heteropolysaccharide containing rhamnose, fucose, galactose, and glucose.
47 Navigating the Biotechnology Landscape in Animal Agriculture: Consumer and Producer Acceptance of Gene Editing to Improve Farm Animal Welfare
Authors: Ortega David L
Published: November 2023

Consumer demand for production process traits in food and agricultural products is rapidly increasing. Recent legal measures reflect the demand for high animal welfare standards. At the same time, consumers are wary of biotechnology applications in food and agriculture, with calls for natural or organic production across the industry. However, when biotechnologies are applied for the benefit of the consumer or address a consumer concern, they become more acceptable. Producers, however, may be hesitant to adopt biotechnologies, given concerns about market acceptance. This presentation will explore the economic foundations, challenges, and opportunities for consumer and producer acceptance of biotechnology applications in animal welfare, especially gene editing techniques. Using the pork and diary industries as case studies, this talk will discuss the emerging opportunities for future improvements through gene editing. Understanding the economic foundations of biotechnology used to improve animal welfare aids agricultural producers, scientists, and policymakers to make optimal decisions regarding how these important aspects of animal agriculture progress.
129 The Relationship Between Pulmonary Arterial Pressure Expected Progeny Differences and Methane Emissions
Authors: Zuvich Miranda L , Speidel Scott E , Torres-Quijada Isaac F , Raynor Edward J , Carvalho Pedro H V , Place Sara E , Stackhouse-Lawson Kim R , Enns R Mark
Published: November 2023

The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP) expected progeny differences (EPD) and methane emissions. Pulmonary arterial pressure is an indicator of pulmonary arterial hypertension in cattle and is especially relevant at high altitudes, with increasing importance in moderate elevation feedlot and finishing systems. Enteric methane emissions from cattle are increasingly emphasized due to their contribution of greenhouse gases in the agricultural sector. As pulmonary arterial hypertension continues to be an issue in high altitudes and feedlots, understanding relationships with methane emission rates will be useful for both concomitant selection with the goal of improving environmental sustainability. The PAP EPD data were collected on 123 total heifers (n = 37) and steers (n = 86) located on a ranch in southern Wyoming at an elevation of 2,194.56 meters. Gas emissions were collected using a GreenFeed system (C-Lock, Rapid City, South Dakota), which measures the gas fluxes of individual animals at the CSU ARDEC facility at an elevation of 1,557.53 meters. Individual animal methane emissions were measured as grams/day. A generalized linear regression model was used to regress average daily methane emissions (mean = 163.08, SD = 38.74, min = 87.72, max = 247.03) on PAP EPD (mean = -0.464, SD = 1.565, min = -6.382, max = 4.286), pen, and age in days (mean = 258.2, SD = 20.009, min = 200, max = 298). The PAP EPD (P = 0.484) did not account for a significant amount of variation in methane emissions. Additionally, the effect of pen (P < 0.05) and age (P < 0.05) were significant sources of variation for methane production. The effects of pen had a range of 60.916 units of methane emission/day (P < 0.05). Age of the individual was evaluated as a linear covariate and had a solution of 0.678 units of methane emission/day (P < 0.05), suggesting that older individuals had increased methane emissions. These results show no statistical relationship between PAP EPD and methane in these data. While preliminary results suggest that selection for low PAP EPD individuals will have no adverse effects on sustainability metrics, future research is needed to fully understand the relationship between beef cattle production traits and sustainability metrics.
443 Awardee Talk: Effects of a Supplemental Water Source and Trace-Mineral Based Electrolyte Drinking Solution on Intake, Performance, and Health of Newly Received Feedlot Calves
Authors: Smithyman Mackenzie M , Gouvea Vinicius N , Campbell Dayna L , Duff Glenn C , Loest Clint A , Branine Mark
Published: November 2023

Rapidly rehydrating newly received feedlot cattle may reduce disease risks caused by the marketing and transportation-related restrictions on feed and water. The significant loss of water and key nutrients from the body can put the animal at increased risk for bovine respiratory disease (BRD). It is hypothesized that rapidly rehydrating calves upon arrival may reduce disease risks by facilitating an easier transition to the feedlot and limiting loss in value due to illness and decreased performance. The objective of this study was to rapidly replenish water and key nutrients in newly received feedlot calves by assessing water intake (WI) and providing a supplemental water source or a nutritional rehydration solution during the first three days after arrival. Crossbred heifers [n= 270; initial BW = 232 ± 16 kg] were individually weighed after 11 h transportation and sorted into 18 pens (6 pens/treatment). Treatments were: 1) Control (CON): standard in-pen automatic water source (Richie CM480; one waterer/pen); 2) Supplemental water source (SWS): CON + one additional stock tank/pen; and 3) Nutritional rehydration solution (NRS): trace-mineral based drinking solution provided with one stock tank/pen. Treatments were provided from days 1 to 4, after which supplemental tanks were removed. From days 5 to 56, cattle only had access to CON (automatic waterer). Water intake was measured daily throughout the trial, BW and whole blood (5 heifers/pen) were collected on days 1, 4, 14, 28, and 56. Treatment × experimental period interactions (P ≤ 0.03) were observed for WI, dry matter intake (DMI), average daily gain (ADG). The DMI was greater for both SWS and NRS than CON from days 5 to 15 (P ≤ 0.01), and SWS had greater DMI than CON from days 16 to 29 (P = 0.01). Both SWS and NRS had greater WI than CON from days 1 to 4 (P ≤ 0.001), but not from days 5 to 56 (P ≥ 0.36). The ADG was less for NRS than CON from days 1 to 4 (P = 0.01); however, treatments did not affect ADG from days 5 to 56 (P ≥ 0.12). No treatment or treatment × day or experimental period effects (P ≥ 0.061) were observed for BW and gain:feed (G:F). Treatments did not affect morbidity and mortality (P ≥ 0.20). No treatment effect or treatment × day interactions were observed for plasma glucose, non-esterified fatty acids, total red or white blood cell counts (P ≥ 0.23). Hematocrit and hemoglobin decreased for SWS and NRS when compared with CON (P ≤0.05). Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) antibodies increased for NRS when compared with SWS and CON (P = 0.004). The results suggest that providing SWS or NRS to newly received calves during the initial three days after arrival increases WI, DMI, antibodies against respiratory viruses, hydration, but has little impact on performance, blood metabolites, and immune cells.
187 Evaluation of Textural Characteristics of Commercially Available Meat Stick-Style Pet Treats
Authors: Barberena Juan J , Carrera Hilary , Berganza Ileana , Romero Jorge , Dunavant Justin , Abascal-Ponciano Gerardo A , Cho Sungeun , Starkey Jessica D , Starkey Charles
Published: November 2023

Availability of pet treats in the U.S market is high, and the organoleptic attributes likely differ depending on ingredient composition, product type, and brand. However, there is a lack of comparative textural data of commercially available products. The objective of this experiment was to assess texture parameters of commercially available meat stick-style pet treats with the overall goal of improving our understanding of how this may affect consumer demand. A total of 4 meat stick pet food treats of different brands were purchased to perform 3 different textural analyses. A total of 120 commercial treat samples (n = 10 from each treatment per analysis) were analyzed. A TA-HDplusC texture analyzer using a Warner-Bratzler (WBSF) probe for the shear force (SF) test to evaluate firmness (peak force) and toughness (total force over distance), and a TA-43R probe for the 3-point bend (3PB) test to assess hardness (force to break), flexibility (distance to break), and stiffness (force over distance). Additionally, a TA-30 cylinder probe was utilized for the texture profile analysis (TPA) to measure hardness (maximum force required to deform), resilience (ability of sample to regain original form), cohesiveness (represents structural integrity under compression), springiness (height that the food recovers between compressions), and chewiness (energy required to masticate). Data were analyzed as a 1-way ANOVA using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS 9.4 with the PDIFF option at P ≤ 0.05 to separate means. For SF, AHJPOULT treats had the greatest shear force when compared with other products (P ≤ 0.0001). The total force over distance (toughness) was lowest in ORBEEF and PPSBEEF and highest in AHJPOULT and TCPOULT samples (P ≤ 0.0001). For 3PB, the force required to break samples was greater for TCPOULT when compared with the other products (P ≤ 0.0001). TCPOULT treats were also the most flexible commercial product samples tested (P ≤ 0.0001). The force over distance was lower for PPSBEEF samples when compared with other products (P ≤ 0.0001). For TPA, ORBEEF was the hardest product of all samples assessed (P ≤ 0.0001). Resilience, cohesiveness, and springiness were greatest for TCPOULT compared with all other products (P ≤ 0.0001). TCPOULT treats also required the most energy to masticate (P ≤ 0.0001). In summary, textural characteristics differed among commercially available meat stick treats procured for this experiment where TCPOULT were the toughest, hardest, and most resilient. These differences may impact pet-owner acceptability and purchasing decisions which will be evaluated in future sensory experiments to better understand consumer demand.