bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Life expectancy in metastatic prostate cancer patients according to racial/ethnic groups
Authors: Würnschimmel Christoph , Wenzel Mike , Collà Ruvolo Claudia , Nocera Luigi , Tian Zhe , Saad Fred , Briganti Alberto , Shariat Shahrokh F , Mirone Vincenzo , Chun Felix KH , Tilki Derya , Graefen Markus , Karakiewicz Pierre I
Published: May 2021

Objectives

To quantify the magnitude of differences between observed overall survival and respective, age‐adjusted Social Security Administration life tables‐derived life expectancy in Caucasian, African American, Hispanic/Latino and Asian metastatic prostate cancer patients. Furthermore, to test for differences in cancer‐specific mortality and other‐cause mortality according to race/ethnicity.

Methods

We relied on the 2004–2006 Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results database to identify Caucasian, African American, Hispanic/Latino and Asian metastatic prostate cancer patients. Social Security Administration life tables were used to compute 10‐year life expectancy for comparisons with observed overall survival. Poisson regression plots showed cancer‐specific mortality relative to other‐cause mortality for each race/ethnicity.

Results

A total of 2574 (64.2%) patients were Caucasian, 753 (18.8%) were African American, 453 (11.3%) were Hispanic/Latino and 227 (5.7%) were Asian, respectively. The median age at diagnosis was 72 years in Caucasian patients, 68 years in African American patients, 70 years in Hispanic/Latino patients and 72 years in Asian patients. Observed overall survival rates were always lower compared with respective predicted life expectancy. The magnitude of the difference between observed overall survival and predicted life expectancy at 10 years was highest in African American patients (−52.2%), followed by Caucasian patients (−48.3%), Hispanic/Latino patients (−46.1%) and Asian patients (−37.4%). African American patients showed the highest cancer‐specific mortality rates (71.1%) and second‐highest other‐cause mortality rates (17.4% vs highest 18.4% in Caucasian patients), despite having the youngest age at diagnosis. Asian patients showed the lowest cancer‐specific mortality rates (65.5%, P < 0.0001) and lowest other‐cause mortality rates (13.3%, P = 0.04), despite having the oldest age at diagnosis.

Conclusions

Despite having the youngest age at diagnosis, African American patients show the least favorable survival profile in metastatic prostate cancer. Conversely, Asian patients show the most favorable survival profile in metastatic prostate cancer, despite having the oldest age at diagnosis.
Novel mechanisms and clinical trial endpoints in intestinal fibrosis*
Authors: Wang Jie , Lin Sinan , Brown Jonathan Mark , van Wagoner David , Fiocchi Claudio , Rieder Florian
Published: May 2021

The incidence of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) worldwide has resulted in a global public health challenge. Intestinal fibrosis leading to stricture formation and bowel obstruction is a frequent complication in Crohn's disease (CD), and the lack of anti‐fibrotic therapies makes elucidation of fibrosis mechanisms a priority. Progress has shown that mesenchymal cells, cytokines, microbial products, and mesenteric adipocytes are jointly implicated in the pathogenesis of intestinal fibrosis. This recent information puts prevention or reversal of intestinal strictures within reach through innovative therapies validated by reliable clinical trial endpoints. Here, we review the role of immune and non‐immune components of the pathogenesis of intestinal fibrosis, including new cell clusters, cytokine networks, host‐microbiome interactions, creeping fat, and their translation for endpoint development in anti‐fibrotic clinical trials.
Higher probability of tick infestation reveals a hidden cost of army ant‐following in Amazonian birds
Authors: Fecchio Alan , Martins Thiago F. , Ogrzewalska Maria , Schunck Fabio , Weckstein Jason. D. , Dias Raphael I.
Published: May 2021

The foraging specialization of army ant‐following birds has long intrigued ecologists and provided numerous questions such as why, how and when did this foraging guild specialization arise and evolve. Many of the answers to these questions have focused on ecological interactions such as predation and competition, whereas little has been done to study the potential effects of host–parasite interactions among members of this foraging guild. Using 1177 Amazonian birds from 187 species, we studied the probability of tick infestation in relation to attendance of birds at army ant swarms. We demonstrate that the probability of tick infestation was higher among professional and occasional ant‐followers than in bird species that do not follow army ants to prey upon leaf‐litter flushed arthropods. Moreover, occasional ant‐followers harbored a greater diversity of nymphal ticks. We argue that although the evolutionary transition toward specialized ant‐following behavior has a genetic basis, a trade‐off between the cost of evolution of this trait and its fitness benefits might exist. In this case, the cost is in the form of higher parasite pressure. Therefore, parasites may impose a selective pressure not only during foraging but also through the allocation of resources for an immunological response. Our results of an analysis of tick parasitism on Amazonian birds emphasizes the importance of parasitic organisms on ecology and evolution of behavioural traits of their hosts. Considering the effects imposed by parasite pressure is essential for understanding the evolution and maintenance of behavioral and life‐history traits.
Atrial fibrillation and atrial cardiomyopathies
Authors: Baman Jayson R. , Cox James L. , McCarthy Patrick M. , Kim Daniel , Patel Ravi B. , Passman Rod S. , Wilcox Jane E.
Published: May 2021

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia among adults. While there have been incredible advances in the management of AF and its clinical sequelae, investigation of atrial cardiomyopathies (ACMs) is becoming increasingly more prominent. ACM refers to the electromechanical changes—appreciated subclinically and/or clinically—that underlie atrial dysfunction and create an environment ripe for the development of clinically apparent AF. There are several subtypes of ACM, distinguished by histologic features. Recent progress in cardiovascular imaging, including echocardiography with speckle‐tracking (e.g., strain analysis), cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (CMR), and atrial 4‐D flow CMR, has enabled increased recognition of ACM. Identification of ACM and its features carry clinical implications, including elevating a patient's risk for development of AF, as well as associations with outcomes related to catheter‐based and surgical AF ablation. In this review, we explore the definition and classifications of ACM, its complex relationship with clinical AF, imaging modalities, and clinical implications. We propose next steps for a more unified approach to ACM recognition that can direct further research into this complex field.
Epicardial access complications during electrophysiology procedures
Authors: Romero Jorge , Patel Kavisha , Lakkireddy Dhanunjaya , Alviz Isabella , Velasco Alejandro , Rodriguez Daniel , Karpenos Joseph , Zhang Xiao‐Dong , Natale Andrea , Di Biase Luigi
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Percutaneous epicardial access (EA) was first described more than two decades ago. Since its initial introduction, indications for its utilization in the field of electrophysiology have expanded dramatically.

Discussion

Epicardial mapping and ablation in patients with ventricular tachycardia is routinely performed in tertiary electrophysiology centers around the world. Although limited by lack of randomized controlled trials, epicardial ablation for atrial fibrillation has been suggested as a conjunctive strategy in patients who have failed an initial endocardial catheter ablation attempt, and it is necessary for placement of some left atrial appendage occlusion devices as well. An accurate understanding of the cardiac anatomy is crucial to avoid complications such as inadvertent right ventricular puncture, injury to the coronary arteries, abdominal viscera, phrenic nerves, and esophagus during both EA and catheter ablation.

Conclusion

The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the cardiac anatomy, technical aspects to optimize the safety of epicardial puncture, recognize and avoid potential complications.
The effect of catheter ablation for ventricular arrhythmias originating from the left ventricular papillary muscles on mitral valve function
Authors: Sink Joshua , Turin Alexander , Cytron Joseph , Green Alexander , Santucci Peter , Wilber David , Vasaiwala Samip , Vasaiwala Smit
Published: May 2021

Background

Ablation of ventricular arrhythmias (VA) originating from the left ventricular (LV) papillary muscles (PM) has the potential to damage the mitral valve apparatus resulting in mitral regurgitation (MR). This study sought to evaluate the effect of radiofrequency (RF) ablation of a PM on MR severity.

Methods

Patients with pre‐ and postablation transthoracic echocardiograms who underwent PM ablation for treatment of VA were retrospectively identified and compared to similar patients who underwent VA ablation at non‐PM sites. MR severity was evaluated pre‐ and postablation in both groups and graded as none/trace (Grade 0); mild/mild‐to‐moderate (Grade 1); moderate (Grade 2); moderate‐to‐severe/severe (Grade 3).

Results

A total of 45 and 49 patients were included in the PM and non‐PM groups, respectively. There were no significant baseline demographic differences. The PM group had longer RF ablation times (22.3 vs. 13.3 min, p < .01) compared to the non‐PM group. Most patients had low‐grade MR in both groups at baseline. Change in pre‐ versus postablation MR within the PM group was not statistically significant by Wilcoxon rank‐sum test (Figure 2, p = .46). MR severity following ablation was also evaluated using logistic regression models. The odds ratio for worsening MR in the PM group compared to non‐PM was 0.19 (95% confidence interval: 0.008–4.18, p = .29) after adjusting for comorbidities, LV ejection fraction, and LV internal end‐diastolic diameter.

Conclusion

RF ablation of VA originating from PM under intracardiac echocardiography guidance did not result in clinically or statistically significant worsening of MR.
NT5DC2 promotes leiomyosarcoma tumour cell growth via stabilizing unpalmitoylated TEAD4 and generating a positive feedback loop
Authors: Hu Bowen , Zhou Shijie , Hu Xuefeng , Zhang Hua , Lan Xiaorong , Li Mei , Wang Yunbing , Hu Qinsheng
Published: May 2021

5′‐Nucleotidase Domain Containing 2 (NT5DC2) is a novel oncoprotein, the regulatory effects of which have not been well characterized. This study aimed to investigate the expression profile and functional regulation of NT5DC2 and its potential interplay with TEAD4 in leiomyosarcoma (LMS). Bioinformatic analysis was conducted using data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Genotype‐Tissue Expression (GTEx) program. LMS cell lines SK‐LMS‐1 and SK‐UT‐1 were used for both in vitro and in vivo analysis. Results showed that NT5DC2 is aberrantly upregulated in LMS. Its overexpression was associated with unfavourable survival. Deletion of NT5DC2 significantly reduced the expression of cyclin B1, cyclin A2, cyclin E1 and CDK1 and increased G1 phase arrest in LMS cell lines, and suppressed their proliferation both in vitro and in vivo. NT5DC2 interacted with unpalmitoylated TEAD4, and this association reduced TEAD4 degradation via the ubiquitin‐proteasome pathway. TRIM27 is a novel E3 ubiquitin ligase that induces K27/48‐linked ubiquitination of unpalmitoylated TEAD4 at Lys278. TEAD4 inhibition significantly suppressed LMS cell growth both in vitro and in vivo. Dual‐luciferase assay demonstrated that TEAD4 could bind to the NT5DC2 promoter and activate its transcription. Based on these findings, we infer that the NT5DC2‐TEAD4 positive feedback loop plays an important role in LMS development and might serve as a potential therapeutic target.
Carbohydrate sulfotransferase 3 (CHST3) overexpression promotes cartilage endplate‐derived stem cells (CESCs) to regulate molecular mechanisms related to repair of intervertebral disc degeneration by rat nucleus pulposus
Authors: Guan Yunzhi , Sun Chi , Zou Fei , Wang Hongli , Lu Feizhou , Song Jian , Liu Siyang , Xia Xinlei , Jiang Jianyuan , Ma Xiaosheng
Published: May 2021

To investigate the regulatory effect of carbohydrate sulfotransferase 3 (CHST3) in cartilage endplate‐derived stem cells (CESCs) on the molecular mechanism of intervertebral disc degeneration after nucleus pulposus repair in rats. We performed GO and KEGG analysis of GSE15227 database to select the differential genes CHST3 and CSPG4 in grade Ⅱ, Ⅲ and Ⅳ intervertebral disc degeneration, IHC and WB to detect the protein profile of CHST3 and CSPG4, Co‐IP for the interaction between CHST3 and CSPG4. Then, immunofluorescence was applied to measure the level of CD90 and CD105, and flow cytometry indicated the level of CD73, CD90 and CD105 in CESCs. Next, Alizarin red staining, Alcian blue staining and TEM were performed to evaluate the effects of CESCs into osteoblasts and chondroblasts, respectively, CCK8 for the cell proliferation of osteoblasts and chondroblasts after induction for different times; cell cycle of osteoblasts or chondroblasts was measured by flow cytometry after induction, and WB for the measurement of specific biomarkers of OC and RUNX in osteoblasts and aggrecan, collagen II in chondroblasts. Finally, colony formation was applied to measure the cell proliferation of CESCs transfected with ov‐CHST3 or sh‐CHST3 when cocultured with bone marrow cells, WB for the protein expression of CHST3, CSPG4 and ELAVL1 in CSECs, transwell assay for the migration of CESCs to bone marrow cells, TEM image for the cellular characteristics of bone marrow cells, and WB for the protein profile of VCAN, VASP, NCAN and OFD1 in bone marrow cells. CHST3 and CSPG4 were differentially expressed and interacted in grade Ⅱ, Ⅲ and Ⅳ intervertebral disc degeneration; CD73, CD90 and CD105 were lowly expressed in CESCs, osteogenic or chondroblastic induction changed the characteristics, proliferation, cell cycle and specific biomarkers of osteoblasts and chondroblasts after 14 or 21 days,; CHST3 affected the cell proliferation, protein profile, migration and cellular features of cocultured CESCs or bone marrow cells. CHST3 overexpression promoted CESCs to regulate bone marrow cells through interaction with CSPG4 to repair the grade Ⅱ, Ⅲ and Ⅳ intervertebral disc degeneration.
β‐Cell failure in diabetes: Common susceptibility and mechanisms shared between type 1 and type 2 diabetes
Authors: Ikegami Hiroshi , Babaya Naru , Noso Shinsuke
Published: May 2021

Diabetes mellitus is etiologically classified into type 1, type 2 and other types of diabetes. Despite distinct etiologies and pathogenesis of these subtypes, many studies have suggested the presence of shared susceptibilities and underlying mechanisms in β‐cell failure among different types of diabetes. Understanding these susceptibilities and mechanisms can help in the development of therapeutic strategies regardless of the diabetes subtype. In this review, we discuss recent evidence indicating the shared genetic susceptibilities and common molecular mechanisms between type 1, type 2 and other types of diabetes, and highlight the future prospects as well.
Neuroimmune metabolism: Uncovering the role of metabolic reprogramming in central nervous system disease
Authors: Korshoj Lee E. , Kielian Tammy
Published: May 2021

The rapidly expanding field of immunometabolism has highlighted an intricate association between the metabolic pathways that program cellular pro‐inflammatory versus anti‐inflammatory activity. This Special Issue on Neuroimmune Metabolism showcases a growing body of work characterizing the metabolic profiles of the major CNS‐resident and peripheral immune cell players in neuroinflammation, neurodegeneration, and brain injury. The review articles address the roles of glycolytic, oxidative, and lipid metabolism that are associated with beneficial or detrimental properties in various neurological conditions, address unanswered questions in the field, and discuss promising avenues for future therapeutics.

image

Cover Image for this issue: https://doi.org/10.1111/jnc.15069
Association rule learning in neuropsychological data analysis for Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Happawana Keith A. , Diamond Bruce J.
Published: May 2021

Efficient methods of analysis readily available for clinicians continue to be limited within neuropsychological assessment at the raw data level. Here, a novel approach for generating predictive response patterns and analysing neuropsychological raw data is offered. In order to assess the usefulness of association rule learning as an analysis tool for neuropsychological raw data, Frequent Pattern Growth (FP‐Growth) was used to mine patterns from the Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer’s Disease Neuropsychological Battery (CERAD‐NB) database. Complete assessment data for 84 post‐mortem confirmed Alzheimer’s disease (AD) cases and 294 age, race, and education matched controls were analysed across baseline and one‐year follow‐up using FP‐Growth, for the purpose of assessing the clinical utility of a finer analysis at the raw data level and the feasibility of predicting response patterns for clinical/control groups. Output from FP‐Growth, in terms of the number of frequent itemsets retained across both evaluation timepoints, was discernable between controls, mild, and moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease cases (p < .001, and η2 = .488). Patterns within raw data scores, both in terms of frequent itemsets and predictive association rules, appear to be differentiable across groups within neuropsychological analysis, which indicates that FP‐Growth is applicable as a supplementary analysis tool for neuropsychological assessment by means of offering an additional level of data analysis, predictive item response capabilities, and aiding in clinical decision making.
Minimally invasive aesthetic treatment of male patients: The importance of consultation and the lower third of the face
Authors: Mastroluca Erminio , Patalano Mariagrazia , Bertossi Dario
Published: May 2021

Background

Men worry disproportionately about potential negative consequences of facial aesthetic treatment with injectable therapies, such as side effects or appearing more feminine. Features of the lower third of the face (eg, prominent chin and jaw) are particularly important in perceptions of masculinity. A strategy has been developed for male patients based on an initial consultation emphasizing the safety and masculinizing potential of injectables, followed by treatment with a high G’ hyaluronic acid filler targeting the lower third.

Aims

To assess this strategy in routine practice.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of male patients with poor definition of the lower third of the face wishing to undergo non‐surgical correction. Initial consultation focused on detailed patient education and facial masculinization with injectables. Individuals were then treated in the lower third using VYC‐25 based on the standardized MD Codes approach. Follow‐up lasted ≤12 months.

Results

Forty patients were included (mean age: 40.9 ± 9.6 years). The mean volume of VYC‐25 injected into the lower third was 7.8 ± 1.2 ml. Patient satisfaction was high, as assessed using the FACE‐Q “Satisfaction with outcome” questionnaire (mean Rasch‐transformed score: 88.1 ± 10.3). Complications included the following: soft tissue edema, n = 12 (30.0%); hematoma, n = 6 (15.0%); and telangiectasia, n = 2 (5.0%). All were early, transient, and minor; there were no major or delayed events.

Conclusions

This approach to male subjects was practical and safe despite the large volumes of filler used. Focusing on the lower third may help to reassure patients and deliver results that respect masculine identity.
Experiences of Western Australian rural nursing graduates: A mixed method analysis
Authors: Graf Amanda C. , Nattabi Barbara , Jacob Elisabeth , Twigg Diane
Published: May 2021

Aims and objectives

To determine whether the current rural graduate programmes in Western Australia adequately support new graduate nurses transitioning into practice.

Background

Graduate nurse's transition to employment is a time of significant change and challenge, often resulting in periods of transition shock. These challenges are magnified in rural areas where graduates have to relocate to commence their career with limited rural nursing experience. Graduate programmes were developed to smooth the transition for university trained bachelor's degree registered nurses into the workforce. Supportive graduate nursing programmes are essential for enabling transition to practice and reduce attrition rates.

Design

Longitudinal convergent mixed method parallel design was informed by Duchscher's transition stage model.

Method

Thematic analysis was applied to all interviews. COREQ checklist was completed. Descriptive statistics and content analysis were used to analyse the survey responses.

Results

New graduates cycled through both transition shock and honeymoon periods on commencement of employment, reporting high levels of satisfaction in simultaneity with signs of transition shock. Satisfaction dropped within 7 months indicating a transition crisis before an adjustment period occurred at the end of their graduate year. Limited resources were highlighted as obstacles to providing adequate support to rural graduate nurses.

Conclusion

The honeymoon stage of transition co‐existed with transition shock at the commencement of graduate programmes, which may obscure the need for continuing adequate support. Inadequate and/or a lack of preceptorship was evident throughout the Western Australian rural graduate programmes. Graduate programmes need to be structured but flexible to allow for individual differences in graduates’ and clinical contexts.

Relevance to clinical practice

Structured but flexible graduate programmes allow for individual differences in graduates and clinical situations. New graduate nurses would benefit from a break midway through their graduate year to assist and overcome the transition crisis stage. Education of nurses undertaking the preceptor role is required to deliver adequate support to graduate nurses and decrease transition shock.
Generalizing across auxiliary, statistical, and inferential assumptions
Authors: Trafimow David
Published: May 2021

There is a long history of discussion about the ability of researchers to generalize their findings. But findings are not the only entity that researchers can attempt to generalize. Scientists have theories, empirical hypotheses, and statistical hypotheses too. The extent to which scientists can generalize these is an open issue. As a prerequisite to proposals about generalizing theories, empirical hypotheses, and statistical hypotheses; they must be distinguished from each other. Another prerequisite is to specify, across what, the researcher wishes to generalize. I show that theories may or may not generalize across auxiliary assumptions, empirical hypotheses may or may not generalize across statistical assumptions, and statistical hypotheses may or may not generalize across inferential assumptions. The reasoning to be presented, pertaining to generalization, militates against the typical practice of using p‐values to draw conclusions about hypotheses.
Feasibility, complications, and quality of visualization using video capsule endoscopy in 40 dogs with overt or questionable gastrointestinal bleeding
Authors: Stiller Jenny , Defarges Alice M. , Brisson Brigitte A. , Bersenas Alexa M. E. , Pearl David L.
Published: May 2021

Background

Prospective studies describing video capsule endoscopy (VCE), its feasibility, and complications in dogs are limited.

Objective

To assess VCE, quality of visualization, complications, and risk factors for incomplete studies in dogs with overt or questionable gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB).

Animals

Forty dogs with overt or questionable GIB.

Methods

Prospective, multicenter, interventional study. From August 2017 to March 2020, dogs were examined by VCE (ALICAM) because of overt or questionable GIB. Reported outcomes included diagnostic results of VCE study, quality of visualization, and complications. Risk factors for incomplete studies were evaluated using logistic regression.

Results

In total, 40 dogs (13 overt, 27 questionable GIB) were included. The capsules were administered PO in 29 and endoscopically in 11 dogs (6 duodenum, 5 stomach). One capsule was not retrieved. In 24 of 39 recordings, bleeding lesions were identified (10 overt GIB, 14 questionable GIB). Overall, the quality of visualization was poor to limited in the stomach and colon, and adequate to good in the small intestine. The most common complication was an incomplete study in 15/39 studies, particularly after oral administration (13/28). Risk factors for incomplete study after oral administration included administration of simethicone or opioids, chronic enteropathy, and capsule gastric transit time >6 hours.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Video capsule endoscopy can be used to diagnose a variety of lesions causing bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract of dogs with questionable GIB. Incomplete studies are the most common complications in dogs after oral administration of capsules.
Comparison of thoracic ultrasonography and thoracic radiography to detect active infectious bronchopneumonia in hospitalized dairy calves
Authors: Berman Julie , Masseau Isabelle , Fecteau Gilles , Buczinski Sébastien , Francoz David
Published: May 2021

Background

The best test between thoracic ultrasonography (TUS) and thoracic radiography (TR) or the best combination of tests (series or parallel) to detect active infectious bronchopneumonia (BP) in hospitalized dairy calves remains unknown.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To estimate performances of TUS and TR to detect active BP in hospitalized dairy calves and to determine the best strategy for using these tests based on a panel diagnosis method (PDM). Performances of TUS and TR were hypothesized to be equivalent.

Animals

Fifty hospitalized dairy calves (≥7 days old; ≤100 kg; standing; pCO2 ≥ 53 mm Hg; any reason of presentation).

Methods

Each calf prospectively and sequentially underwent physical examination, thoracic auscultation, blood analyses, and TUS and TR. Three blinded experts determined whether active BP was present/absent based on PDM. Krippendorff's alpha measured interexpert agreement. The sensitivities (Se) and specificities (Sp) of TUS and TR alone and in series or parallel were compared (McNemar's test;P < .05).

Results

Interexpert agreement was moderate at 0.58 (95%CI: 0.42; 0.73). The Se and Sp of TUS were 0.84 (95%CI: 0.60; 0.97) and 0.74 (95%CI: 0.57; 0.86), respectively. The Se and Sp of TR were 0.89 (95%CI: 0.67; 0.99) and 0.58 (95%CI: 0.39; 0.75), respectively. No significant difference was found in the Se and Sp of TUS and TR when analyzed alone, in series or in parallel.

Conclusion

Thoracic ultrasonography or TR alone equally detected active BP in hospitalized dairy calves. Series or parallel analysis provided no additional benefit. Its ease of use and widespread accessibility support using TUS as a first‐line test to detect active BP in hospitalized dairy calves.
Cardiac diagnostic test results and outcomes in 44 dogs naturally infected withTrypanosoma cruzi
Authors: Matthews Derek J. , Saunders Ashley B. , Meyers Alyssa C. , Gordon Sonya G. , Hamer Sarah A.
Published: May 2021

Background

The protozoal parasiteTrypanosoma cruzicauses myocarditis in dogs.

Objectives

To describe the cardiac diagnostic test results and outcomes of dogs naturally infected withT. cruzi.

Animals

Forty‐four client‐owned dogs.

Methods

Medical records were retrospectively reviewed to identify dogs with an indirect fluorescent antibody test result forT. cruzi≥1 : 80. Data collected included signalment, cardiac diagnostic test results (ECG, echocardiography, cardiac troponin I) and outcome. Outcomes were categorized as alive, dead (cardiac or noncardiac) or lost to follow up.

Results

ECG abnormalities were present in 41 dogs with ventricular arrhythmias (n = 28) and atrioventricular block (AVB) (n = 15) most commonly identified. Echocardiographic chamber enlargement was present in 28 dogs and most often included the right ventricle (RV) (n = 15) and left atrium (n = 12). Troponin was ≥2 times the reference range in 20/36 (56%) dogs. In univariate analysis using nonparametric Kaplan‐Meier, ventricular arrhythmias with a modified Lown score ≥2 (P = .02), presence of AVB (P = .04), and RV enlargement (P = .006) were associated with decreased survival times. Right ventricular enlargement (HR 3.6; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.4‐9.3;P = .007) and higher body weight at presentation (HR 1.0; 95% CI 1.0‐1.1;P = .04) were associated with decreased time to death in the final explanatory multivariable model.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Cardiac abnormalities were common and variable, and RV enlargement was associated with shorter survival time. A diagnostic evaluation that includes screening for arrhythmias, echocardiography, and cTnI can provide useful information related to the characterization of heart disease in dogs seropositive forT. cruzi.
Platelet number and function in response to a single intravenous dose of vincristine
Authors: Allen Erin C. , Tarigo Jaime L. , LeVine Dana N. , Barber Jamie P. , Brainard Benjamin M.
Published: May 2021

Background

Vincristine might increase circulating platelet numbers but the functional capacity of these newly released platelets is unknown.

Objective

To evaluate and compare the functionality of mature and immature (reticulated) platelets after a single intravenous dose of vincristine in dogs.

Animals

Ten healthy purpose‐bred dogs.

Methods

Dogs prospectively received a single IV injection of 0.02 mg/kg vincristine or 0.9% saline. Before and after treatment on days 3, 5, and 7, platelets (resting and after thrombin stimulation) were assessed by flow cytometric determination of P‐selectin (CD62P) expression. Reticulated platelets were distinguished using thiazole orange (TO) staining.

Results

Relative to saline, vincristine administration increased platelet count from day 0 to day 7 (225 ± 58 to 273 ± 65 × 103/μL, vs 299 ± 76.4 to 214 ± 20 × 103/μL,P = .01) and increased percentage of reticulated platelets from day 0 to day 5 (3.9 ± 1.5% to 6.1 ± 1.6%,P = .02). On all days, reticulated platelets had greater resting expression of CD62P than did mature platelets (49.6 ± 4% vs 10.2 ± 1%,P ≤ .001). Across all days, CD62P expression by reticulated platelets in the vincristine and saline‐treated groups was not different when unstimulated (P = .7) or after thrombin stimulation (P = .33).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Reticulated platelets released in response to vincristine administration function similarly to mature platelets.
Circulating trimethylamine‐N‐oxide is associated with all‐cause mortality in subjects with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Flores‐Guerrero Jose L. , Post Adrian , van Dijk Peter R. , Connelly Margery A. , Garcia Erwin , Navis Gerjan , Bakker Stephan J. L. , Dullaart Robin P. F.
Published: May 2021

Background and Aims

Trimethylamine‐N‐oxide (TMAO), a gut microbiota‐liver metabolite, has been associated with cardiometabolic disease. However, whether TMAO is associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and NAFLD‐related health outcomes remains unclear. We aimed to investigate the association of TMAO with NAFLD and to assess the extent to which the association of TMAO with all‐cause mortality is dependent on the presence of NAFLD in the general population.

Methods

We included 5292 participants enrolled in the Prevention of Renal and Vascular End‐stage Disease (PREVEND) cohort study. Cox proportional‐hazards regression analyses were performed to study the association of TMAO with all‐cause mortality in subjects with and without a fatty liver index (FLI) ≥60, which was used as a proxy of NAFLD.

Results

During a median follow‐up of 8.2 years, 307 subjects died, of whom 133 were classified with NAFLD. TMAO was positively and independently associated with baseline FLI (Std β 0.08, 95% CI 0.05, 0.11, P < .001). Higher TMAO was associated with increased risk of all‐cause mortality in subjects with NAFLD, in crude analysis (hazard ratio [HR] per 1 SD, 2.55, 95% CI 1.60, 4.05, P < .001) and after full adjustment (adjHR 1.90, 95% CI 1.18, 3.04, P = .008). Such an association was not present in subjects without NAFLD (crude HR 1.14, 95% CI 0.81, 1.71, P = .39; adjHR 0.95, 95% CI 0.65, 1.39, P = .78).

Conclusion

This prospective study revealed that plasma concentrations of TMAO were associated with all‐cause mortality in subjects with NAFLD, independently of traditional risk factors.
Quality of phytoplankton deposition structures bacterial communities at the water‐sediment interface
Authors: Izabel‐Shen Dandan , Albert Séréna , Winder Monika , Farnelid Hanna , Nascimento Francisco J. A.
Published: May 2021

Phytoplankton comprises a large fraction of the vertical carbon flux to deep water via the sinking of particulate organic matter (POM). However, despite the importance of phytoplankton in the coupling of benthic‐pelagic productivity, the extent to which its deposition in the sediment affects bacterial dynamics at the water‐sediment interface is poorly understood. Here, we conducted a microcosm experiment in which varying mixtures of diatom and cyanobacteria, representing phytoplankton‐derived POM of differing quality, served as inputs to sediment cores. Characterization of 16S rRNA gene of the bacterial communities at the water‐sediment interface showed that bacterial α‐diversity was not affected by POM addition, while bacterial β‐diversity changed significantly along the POM quality gradient, with the variation driven by changes in relative abundance rather than in taxon replacement. Analysing individual taxa abundances across the POM gradient revealed two distinct bacterial responses, in which taxa within either diatom‐ or cyanobacteria‐favoured groups were more phylogenetically closely related to one another than other taxa found in the water. Moreover, there was little overlap in taxon identity between sediment and water communities, suggesting the minor role played by sediment bacteria in influencing the observed changes in bacterial communities in the overlying water. Together, these results showed that variability in phytoplankton‐originated POM can impact bacterial dynamics at the water‐sediment interface. Our findings highlight the importance of considering the potential interactions between phytoplankton and bacteria in benthic‐pelagic coupling in efforts to understand the structure and function of bacterial communities under a changing climate.
Cauliflower mosaic virus protein P6‐TAV plays a major role in alteration of aphid vector feeding behaviour but not performance on infected Arabidopsis
Authors: Chesnais Quentin , Verdier Maxime , Burckbuchler Myriam , Brault Véronique , Pooggin Mikhail , Drucker Martin
Published: May 2021

Emerging evidence suggests that viral infection modifies host plant traits that in turn alter behaviour and performance of vectors colonizing the plants in a way conducive for transmission of both nonpersistent and persistent viruses. Similar evidence for semipersistent viruses like cauliflower mosaic virus (CaMV) is scarce. Here we compared the effects of Arabidopsis infection with mild (CM) and severe (JI) CaMV isolates on the feeding behaviour (recorded by the electrical penetration graph technique) and fecundity of the aphid vector Myzus persicae. Compared to mock‐inoculated plants, feeding behaviour was altered similarly on CM‐ and JI‐infected plants, but only aphids on JI‐infected plants had reduced fecundity. To evaluate the role of the multifunctional CaMV protein P6‐TAV, aphid feeding behaviour and fecundity were tested on transgenic Arabidopsis plants expressing wild‐type (wt) and mutant versions of P6‐TAV. In contrast to viral infection, aphid fecundity was unchanged on all transgenic lines, suggesting that other viral factors compromise fecundity. Aphid feeding behaviour was modified on wt P6‐CM‐, but not on wt P6‐JI‐expressing plants. Analysis of plants expressing P6 mutants identified N‐terminal P6 domains contributing to modification of feeding behaviour. Taken together, we show that CaMV infection can modify both aphid fecundity and feeding behaviour and that P6 is only involved in the latter.
Detecting seminal research contributions to the development of ethnobotany by reference publication year spectroscopy (RPYS)
Authors: Malik Basharat Ahmad , Malik Zubair A. , Naushad Ali P. M. , Bussmann Rainer W.
Published: May 2021

This study aims to assess the growth in overall publication output in ethnobotany as well as provide a systematic examination of the history of ethnobotanical publications using reference publication year spectroscopy (RPYS). The study is based on 5201 papers published between 1974 and 2019 covering 290 006 non‐distinct cited references (CRs), indexed in science citation index‐expanded (SCI‐Expanded) of web of science (WoS). The regression analysis indicated a compound annual growth rate of approximately 11% globally in ethnobotanical publications and the volume of publications doubles every approximately six years. The reference publication period was divided into four sub‐periods in which a total of 31 peaks are clearly identifiable, including five peaks from the first period (earliest to 1800), ten from the second (1801–1900), nine from the third (1901–1950) and seven from the last period (1951–2000). A total 44 publications were found to have been especially influential and landmark. Out of them, 31 (70%) were books and 11 (25%) were articles. Out of the 11 articles, 5 (45%) were published in the same journal (Economic Botany). The first period had the lowest number of publications (5), including classic books like the Spanish translation of Dioscorides'Materia Medicaand Carolus Linnaeus'Systema naturæ. Interestingly, about 30% of the studies that laid the foundation of ethnobotany and are discussed in this paper come from South Africa, pointing to the contribution of the African Continent to the foundation of the field of ethnobotany.
Chloroplast quality control pathways are dependent on plastid DNA synthesis and nucleotides provided by cytidine triphosphate synthase two
Authors: Alamdari Kamran , Fisher Karen E. , Tano David W. , Rai Snigdha , Palos Kyle , Nelson Andrew D. L. , Woodson Jesse D.
Published: May 2021

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced in chloroplasts cause oxidative damage, but also signal to initiate chloroplast quality control pathways, cell death, and gene expression. The Arabidopsis thaliana plastid ferrochelatase two (fc2) mutant produces the ROS singlet oxygen in chloroplasts that activates such signaling pathways, but the mechanisms are largely unknown.

Here we characterize one fc2 suppressor mutation and map it to CYTIDINE TRIPHOSPHATE SYNTHASE TWO (CTPS2), which encodes one of five enzymes in Arabidopsis necessary for de novo cytoplasmic CTP (and dCTP) synthesis.

The ctps2 mutation reduces chloroplast transcripts and DNA content without similarly affecting mitochondria. Chloroplast nucleic acid content and singlet oxygen signaling are restored by exogenous feeding of the dCTP precursor deoxycytidine, suggesting ctps2 blocks signaling by limiting nucleotides for chloroplast genome maintenance. An investigation of CTPS orthologs in Brassicaceae showed CTPS2 is a member of an ancient lineage distinct from CTPS3. Complementation studies confirmed this analysis; CTPS3 was unable to compensate for CTPS2 function in providing nucleotides for chloroplast DNA and signaling.

Our studies link cytoplasmic nucleotide metabolism with chloroplast quality control pathways. Such a connection is achieved by a conserved clade of CTPS enzymes that provide nucleotides for chloroplast function, thereby allowing stress signaling to occur.
Validation of healthcare professional proxy‐reported children’s International Mucositis Evaluation Scale
Authors: Treister Nathaniel S. , Nieder Michael , Baggott Christina , Olson Ellen , Lo Tammy , Jin Xichen , Gao Yun , Chen Lu , Dang Ha , Sung Lillian
Published: May 2021

Objective

The objective was to describe the reliability and validity of the healthcare professional proxy‐report version of the Children's International Mucositis Evaluation Scale (ChIMES).

Methods

We included pediatric patients who were between 4 and 21 years of age and scheduled to undergo hematopoietic cell transplantation. Mucositis was evaluated by trained healthcare professionals who scored ChIMES, the World Health Organization oral toxicity scale, mouth, and throat pain visual analogue scale, National Cancer Institute—Common Terminology Criteria and the Oral Mucositis Daily Questionnaire. Measures were completed daily and evaluated on days 7–17 post‐stem cell infusion for this analysis. Psychometric properties examined were internal consistency, test–retest reliability (days 13 and 14), and convergent construct validity.

Results

There were 192 participants included. Cronbach's alpha was 0.90 for ChIMES Total Score and 0.93 for ChIMES Percentage Score. Test–retest reliability were as follows: intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) 0.82 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.77–0.85) for ChIMES Total Score and ICC 0.82 (95% CI 0.77–0.86) for ChIMES Percentage Score. In terms of construct validation, all correlations between measures met or exceeded those hypothesized (all p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The healthcare professional proxy‐report version of ChIMES is reliable and valid for children and adolescents undergoing hematopoietic cell transplantation.
Invasive spread in meta‐food‐webs depends on landscape structure, fertilization and species characteristics
Authors: Häussler Johanna , Ryser Remo , Brose Ulrich
Published: May 2021

Land use change and biological invasions collectively threaten biodiversity. Yet, few studies have addressed how altering the landscape structure and nutrient supply can promote biological invasions and particularly invasive spread (the spread of an invader from the place of introduction), or asked whether and how these factors interact with biotic interactions and invader properties. We here bridge this knowledge gap by providing a holistic network‐based approach. Our approach combines a trophic network model with a spatial network model allowing us to test which combinations of abiotic and biotic factors can facilitate invasions and in particular invasive spread in food webs. We numerically simulated 6300 single‐species invasions in clustered and random landscapes at different levels of nutrient supply. In total, our simulation experiment yielded 69% successful invasions – 71% in clustered landscapes and 66% in random landscapes, with the proportion of successful invasions increasing with nutrient supply. However, invasive spread was generally higher in random than in clustered landscapes. The latter can facilitate invasive spread within a habitat cluster, but prevent invasive spread between clusters. Low nutrient levels generally prevented the establishment of invasive species and their subsequent spread. However, successful invaders could have more severe impacts as they contribute more to total biomass density and species richness under such conditions. Good dispersal abilities drive the broad‐scale spread of invasive species in fragmented landscapes. Our approach makes an important contribution towards a better understanding of what combination of landscape and invader properties can facilitate or prevent invasive spread in natural ecosystems. This should allow ecologists to more effectively predict and manage biological invasions.
Observing frugivores or collecting scats: a method comparison to construct quantitative seed dispersal networks
Authors: Schlautmann Jan , Rehling Finn , Albrecht Jörg , Jaroszewicz Bogdan , Schabo Dana G. , Farwig Nina
Published: May 2021

Mutualistic interactions form the basis for many ecological processes and are often analyzed within the framework of ecological networks. These interactions can be sampled with a range of methods and first analyses of pollination networks sampled with different methods showed differences in common network metrics. However, it is yet unknown if metrics of seed dispersal networks are similarly affected by the sampling method and if different methods detect a complementary set of frugivores. This is necessary to better understand the (dis‐)advantages of each method and to identify the role of each frugivore for the seed dispersal process.

Here, we compare seed removal networks based on the observation of 2189 frugivore visits on ten focal plant species with seed deposition networks constructed by DNA barcoding of plant seeds in 3094 frugivore scats. We were interested in whether both methods identify the same disperser species and if species‐level network metrics of plant species were correlated between network types.

Both methods identified the same avian super‐generalist frugivores, which accounted for the highest number of dispersed seeds. However, only with DNA barcoding, we detected elusive but frequent mammalian seed dispersers. The overall networks created by both methods were congruent but the plant species' degree, their interaction frequency and their specialization index (d′) differed.

Our study suggests that DNA barcoding of defecated and regurgitated seeds can be used to construct quantitative seed deposition networks similar to those constructed by focal observations. To improve the overall completeness of seed dispersal networks it might be useful to combine both methods to detect interactions by both birds and mammals. Most importantly, the DNA barcoding method provides information on the post‐dispersal stage and thus on the qualitative contribution of each frugivore for the plant community thereby linking species interactions to regeneration dynamics of fleshy‐fruited plant species.