bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of extreme prematurity and bronchopulmonary dysplasia on cardiac function
Authors: Aldana‐Aguirre Jose Carlos , Eckersley Luke , Hyderi Abbas , Hirose Akiko , Boom Jutta van den , Kumaran Kumar , Hornberger Lisa K.
Published: September 2021

Objective: Prematurity and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) are associated with poorly understood abnormalities of ventricular function. We therefore comprehensively compared biventricular function in infants with and without BPD.

Methods: Prospective observational study in extremely preterm infants with (n = 20) and without (n = 38) BPD using conventional and advanced echocardiography at 28 days (T1) and near‐term (T2).

Results: Infants with BPD had lower birth gestational age (26.7±1.9 vs 27.4±1.1 weeks, p = 0.047) and weight (884±207 vs 1108±190 g, p = 0.0001). BPD was associated with larger right ventricles (RV) and reduced RV systolic strain rate at T1 and pulmonary hypertensive indicators at T2 (pulmonary artery acceleration time BPD 51±17 vs no BPD 63±12 ms, p = 0.017). At T1/T2, infants with BPD had lower RV tissue Doppler velocities (e’, a’ and s) and higher E/e’ ratios (T1: BPD 10.4±2.4 vs no BPD 6.2±3.1 cm/sec, p = 0.001; T2: BPD 8.0±3.1 vs no BPD 5.6±2.6 cm/sec, p = 0.02), altered LV diastolic function (apical circumferential T1 early diastolic strain rate BPD 2.8±0.8 vs no BPD 3.6±1.0 /sec, p = 0.04; T2 late diastolic strain rate, BPD 2.29 ± 0.99 vs no BPD 1.67±0.84 /sec, p = 0.03) and LV rotational mechanics (T1: twist rate BPD 90±16 vs no BPD 130±48 deg/sec, p = 0.008; untwist rate (UTR) BPD ‐69±90 vs no BPD ‐147±68 deg/sec, p = 0.008; torsion BPD 2.78±0.56 vs no BPD 4.48±1.74 deg/cm, p = 0.009; and T2: UTR BPD ‐132±69 vs no BPD ‐179±57 deg/sec, p = 0.013).

Conclusion: BPD is associated with altered RV diastolic function that persists near term, with elevated pulmonary vascular resistance, and with persistent alterations in LV apical strain rate and rotational mechanics.
Clinical impact of mitral regurgitation in aortic valve stenosis: Insight from effective regurgitant orifice area
Authors: Maffeis Caterina , Benfari Giovanni , Nistri Stefano , Ribichini Flavio L. , Rossi Andrea
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Mechanisms leading to heart failure (HF) symptoms in aortic valve stenosis (AS) are contentious. We examined the impact of secondary mitral regurgitation (MR) on the symptomatic status in patients with AS.

Methods

Outpatients performing echocardiography with any degree of AS, without organic mitral valve disease, mitral valve intervention, or aortic insufficiency were enrolled. MR was quantitatively defined through mitral effective regurgitant orifice area (EROA) using the proximal isovelocity surface area method. Patients were divided into two groups (New York Heart Association [NYHA] class I–II vs. NYHA class III–IV).

Results

Five hundred and eighty‐four patients were enrolled (484 NYHA I–II, 100 NYHA III–IV). More symptomatic patients had smaller aortic valve area (AVA), lower left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and stroke volume, higher E/E’, and LV global afterload. MR was present in 178 (30%) patients and EROA was <.20 cm2 in 158 (89%). NYHA III–IV patients showed higher prevalence of MR (78% vs 21%, P < 0.0001) and larger EROA (.13±.08 cm2 vs .09±.07 cm2, P < 0.0001). An association between EROA and symptoms was present in the total cohort and in subgroups with preserved LVEF, AVA ≥ 1 and <1 cm2, EE’ 8–14 and ≥14 (P < 0.05 for all). EROA was associated with severe symptoms after adjustment for LVEF, E/E’, and AVA in the overall population (OR 1.10 [1.06–1.15]; P < 0.0001) and in the 516 patients with preserved LVEF (OR 1.13 [1.08–1.19]; P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

In patients with AS, greater EROA values are associated with HF symptoms, even though MR degree is far from the threshold of MR severity. Therefore, even a mild MR represents a supportive marker of HF symptoms presence.
Predicting premature termination of exercise during Bruce protocol stress echocardiography
Authors: Loh Julian , Amanullah Mohammed Rizwan , See Chai Keat , Tang Hak Chiaw , Gunasegaran Kurugulasigamoney , Hamid Nadira , Lau Jeffrey , Lee Chung Yin , Ewe See Hooi , Ding Zee Pin , Sahlén Anders
Published: September 2021

Aims

Clinical guidelines recommend that the exercise protocol of a stress echocardiogram is selected to induce volitional exhaustion after a target duration of at least 8 minutes. While the Bruce protocol is very commonly used for clinical stress tests, it is known to be “steep”, and many patients therefore fail to reach 8 minutes. We studied predictors of failure and developed a method for identifying patients not suitable for Bruce protocol which was accurate and yet simple enough to be used as a point‐of‐care decision support tool.

Methods and results

We studied data out‐patients undergoing Bruce protocol stress echocardiograms (n = 11 086) and analyzed predictors of inappropriate early termination (defined as test duration < 8 min as per current practice guidelines) using logistic regression. A prediction model was constructed as follows: .5 points were given for each of hypertension, diabetes, smoking, and E/e’ > 7.9 in the resting echocardiogram; .1 point was added for each 1‐unit increment in body mass index; 1 point was added for patient age by decade; 2.0 points were subtracted for male sex (p for all < 0.001). In tests on held‐out validation data, the model was well calibrated (in plots of predicted vs actual risk) and discriminated failure versus non‐failure well (C‐statistic .86 for a score of 6.0 points; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

These data may help to standardize protocol selection in stress echocardiography, by identifying patients pre‐hoc where Bruce protocol will be inappropriately steep.
Larval ecology, dispersal, and the evolution of sociality in the sea
Authors: Mazzei Renata , Rubenstein Dustin R.
Published: September 2021

Individual decisions about whether or not to disperse shape the kin structure of social groups, promoting or disrupting the evolution of sociality via kin selection. It is often assumed that the great dispersal potential of marine larvae driven by ocean currents disrupts kin association and, as a consequence, reduces the chances that social groups in the sea form via kin selection. Yet, accumulating evidence indicates that the larval dispersal process is not as random as previously assumed and that different mechanisms can promote kin associations in marine species. Here, we review recent findings in the marine larval ecology literature, emphasizing key aspects of larval development that may limit or promote dispersal and the evolution of sociality in the sea. We find ample evidence that marine larvae settle closer to home than has been previously assumed. A variety of different mechanisms, including lack of planktonic dispersal, limited larval duration, larvae traveling together, variability in reproductive success, and behavioral and physical processes, can generate kin association in marine species and potentially lead to the formation of social groups via kin selection. Uncovering post‐settlement dispersal patterns is also important for understanding how groups of unrelated individuals are formed. By integrating different larval dispersal strategies into the dual benefit framework for the evolution of sociality, we provide examples of alternative pathways for the evolution of sociality in marine species. Finally, we discuss how the increased use of parentage analysis in marine species will provide an opportunity for investigating whether kin selection is indeed much rarer in marine than terrestrial species. Ultimately, determining the role that dispersal and kin selection play in the evolution of sociality in marine species will require an increased effort to gather both behavioral and genetic data for the same species.
Domestication‐induced reduction in eye size revealed in multiple common garden experiments: The case of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.)
Authors: Perry William Bernard , Kaufmann Joshka , Solberg Monica Favnebøe , Brodie Christopher , Coral Medina Angela Maria , Pillay Kirthana , Egerton Anna , Harvey Alison , Phillips Karl P. , Coughlan Jamie , Egan Fintan , Grealis Ronan , Hutton Steve , Leseur Floriane , Ryan Sarah , Poole Russell , Rogan Ger , Ryder Elizabeth , Schaal Patrick , Waters Catherine , Wynne Robert , Taylor Martin , Prodöhl Paulo , Creer Simon , Llewellyn Martin , McGinnity Philip , Carvalho Gary , Glover Kevin Alan
Published: September 2021

Domestication leads to changes in traits that are under directional selection in breeding programmes, though unintentional changes in nonproduction traits can also arise. In offspring of escaping fish and any hybrid progeny, such unintentionally altered traits may reduce fitness in the wild. Atlantic salmon breeding programmes were established in the early 1970s, resulting in genetic changes in multiple traits. However, the impact of domestication on eye size has not been studied. We measured body size corrected eye size in 4000 salmon from six common garden experiments conducted under artificial and natural conditions, in freshwater and saltwater environments, in two countries. Within these common gardens, offspring of domesticated and wild parents were crossed to produce 11 strains, with varying genetic backgrounds (wild, domesticated, F1 hybrids, F2 hybrids and backcrosses). Size‐adjusted eye size was influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Domesticated fish reared under artificial conditions had smaller adjusted eye size when compared to wild fish reared under identical conditions, in both the freshwater and marine environments, and in both Irish and Norwegian experiments. However, in parr that had been introduced into a river environment shortly after hatching and sampled at the end of their first summer, differences in adjusted eye size observed among genetic groups were of a reduced magnitude and were nonsignificant in 2‐year‐old sea migrating smolts sampled in the river immediately prior to sea entry. Collectively, our findings could suggest that where natural selection is present, individuals with reduced eye size are maladapted and consequently have reduced fitness, building on our understanding of the mechanisms that underlie a well‐documented reduction in the fitness of the progeny of domesticated salmon, including hybrid progeny, in the wild.
Chronic polypharmacy at all age: A population‐based drug utilization study
Authors: Guillot Jordan , Maumus‐Robert Sandy , Pariente Antoine , Bezin Julien
Published: September 2021

Polypharmacy is a growing concern often described only in older people by cumulating all drugs taken. We aimed to describe chronic polypharmacy in France, regardless of age.

A cross‐sectional descriptive study was performed using the 1/97th representative sample of the French health insurance nationwide database (EGB). All subjects alive on January 1, 2015, and covered by the French healthcare insurance were included, and their information collected until December 31, 2015, or date of death. Drug exposures were estimated from drug dispensing dates and treatment durations. Chronic uses of drug were defined as drugs used daily for more than 6 months. Chronic polypharmacy corresponded to the exposure to five chronic uses of drug or more.

In 2015, information of 584 862 subjects was collected (mean age: 42.2 years). Prevalence of chronic polypharmacy was 5.6% and incidence 1.1%. Prevalence of chronic polypharmacy increased noticeably from 0.2% for subjects aged 18 to 40 years to a maximum of 29.2% for subjects aged 80 to 90 years and then decreased to 23.6% for subjects aged 90 years and more. Lipid‐modifying agents were the most frequent drugs involved in chronic polypharmacy (10% of exposure). According to age, the most important differences between the younger and older people were found for cardiovascular drugs (43.5% vs. 45.7% of exposure, respectively) and nervous system drugs (13.7% vs. 11.5% of exposure, respectively).

This population‐based study showed increasing of chronic polypharmacy and evolution of chronic drug patterns with age.
Global sensitivities of forest carbon changes to environmental conditions
Authors: Besnard Simon , Santoro Maurizio , Cartus Oliver , Fan Naixin , Linscheid Nora , Nair Richard , Weber Ulrich , Koirala Sujan , Carvalhais Nuno
Published: September 2021

The responses of forest carbon dynamics to fluctuations in environmental conditions at a global scale remain elusive. Despite the understanding that favourable environmental conditions promote forest growth, these responses have been challenging to observe across different ecosystems and climate gradients. Based on a global annual time series of aboveground biomass (AGB) estimated from radar satellites between 1992 and 2018, we present forest carbon changes and provide insights on their sensitivities to environmental conditions across scales. Our findings indicate differences in forest carbon changes across AGB classes, with regions with carbon stocks of 50–125 MgC ha−1 depict the highest forest carbon gains and losses, while regions with 125–150 MgC ha−1 have the lowest forest carbon gains and losses in absolute terms. Net forest carbon change estimates show that the arc‐of‐deforestation and the Congo Basin were the main hotspots of forest carbon loss, while a substantial part of European forest gained carbon during the last three decades. Furthermore, we observe that changes in forest carbon stocks were systematically positively correlated with changes in forest cover fraction. At the same time, it was not necessarily the case with other environmental variables, such as air temperature and water availability at the bivariate level. We also used a model attribution method to demonstrate that atmospheric conditions were the dominant control of forest carbon changes (56% of the total study area) followed by water‐related (29% of the total study area) and vegetation (15% of the total study area) conditions. Regionally, we find evidence that carbon gains from long‐term forest growth covary with long‐term carbon sinks inferred from atmospheric inversions. Our results describe the contributions from the atmosphere, water‐related and vegetation conditions to forest carbon changes and provide new insights into the underlying mechanisms of the coupling between forest growth and the global carbon cycle.
Static and dynamic corrosion behavior of SnO2‐doped AZS slip cast refractory in SLS glass
Authors: Toperesu Phillip Masimba , Kale Girish M. , Daji Jafar , Parkinson David E. , Parkinson Simon
Published: September 2021

The corrosion behavior of a tin IV oxide‐doped AZS‐refractory, subject to static and dynamic corrosion testing at 1370˚C in soda‐lime‐silica glass, was studied considering the effect of the microstructural features on corrosion. The refractory was synthesized by slip cast methods through reaction sintering of alumina and zircon raw materials using SnO2 as a sintering agent. SnO2 had a considerable influence in the enhanced alumina/zircon reaction sintering and the subsequently evolved microstructures of an interlocked Zr(1‐x)Sn(x)O2 solid solution reinforced alumina‐mullite composite. The process kinetics of the refractory corrosion followed reasonably well the predicted dependence on the square root of angular velocity under forced convection corrosion. Glass chemical corrosion and erosion of the refractory, under static and dynamic glass conditions, respectively, revealed the Zr(1‐x)Sn(x)O2 solid solution‐rich mullite matrix as providing the most corrosion resistance and glass compatibility.
Magnetic levitation force and trapped field properties of multiseeded YBCO with triangular arrangement of seeds
Authors: Abdioglu Murat , Guner Sait Baris , Ozturk Kemal , Yang Chiaming , Chen Ingann , Celik Sukru
Published: September 2021

Although there are studies in literature using different number of seeds with different arrangements, especially line and rectangular, it is seen that there is no detailed study handling the levitation force together with trapped field properties of triangular arrangement of seed in YBCO. Therefore, to further investigate the magnetic properties of seeded YBCO superconductors, we have fabricated cylindrical YBCO (YBa2Cu3O7) superconductors with triangular arrangement of the seeds with different seed distances. Maximum levitation force values were obtained as 39.4 N and 57.1 N, while the maximum guidance force values were obtained as −4.6 N, and −8.7 N, respectively, with single‐seeded and triangular‐seeded samples with seed distance of 14 mm. It was determined that the trapped field, levitation force, and guidance force firstly decreased from the single‐seeded sample to the triangular‐seeded sample with small seed distance and then increased with increasing seed distance. Increased field trapping and levitation force performances in the triangular‐seeded samples with suitable seed distance indicate that the triangular arrangement of seeds is an eligible method to produce larger dimension YBCO samples with bigger shielding current radius and bigger averaged trapped field values.
Extrusion‐based 3D printing of gelatin methacryloyl with nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite
Authors: Das Soumitra , Basu Bikramjit
Published: September 2021

The particle shape and size distribution of inorganic fillers play a crucial role in the scaffold buildability when those are incorporated in the viscoelastic polymers. In order to address this issue, the phase pure rod‐shaped nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite (HAp) powders with varying particle sizes and shapes were synthesized by a one‐pot hydrothermal method without any regulatory surfactant at an initial solution pH of 9. As‐synthesized nanocrystalline HAp particles (0–5 wt%) were incorporated into 15 wt% pre‐cross‐linked gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogel matrix to fabricate a predesigned scaffold architecture using a custom‐made 3D bioprinter. The printing parameters (nozzle diameter, extrusion pressure, and printing speed) were optimized for each composition. The biophysical properties (uniaxial compression behavior, swelling ratio, and in vitro degradation) of the composite hydrogel scaffolds were critically analyzed to unravel the role of nano‐sized HAp addition. The compression strength and modulus were substantially improved, while the rate of water uptake and bio‐enzymatic degradation significantly reduced with HAp content. We propose that the inorganic–organic nanocomposite hydrogel could be efficiently assembled to formulate a potential bioink for 3D bioprinting applications toward tissue regeneration.
Finite element simulation of disk‐shaped HfB2 ceramics during spark plasma sintering process
Authors: Ranjbarpour Niari Elaheh , Vajdi Mohammad , Sakkaki Milad , Azizi Shahla , Sadegh Moghanlou Farhad , Shahedi Asl Mehdi
Published: September 2021

Spark plasma sintering is an interesting manufacturing method, which benefits electric current heating. In the present study, the sintering process of hafnium diboride (HfB2) ceramics was simulated using the finite element method. The governing equations of electric potential, current conservation, and energy conservation were solved using COMSOL Multiphysics software. The electric potential of the whole system versus time and current distribution at different time steps were obtained. The heat generation was calculated using the Joule heating effect, and the needed temperature for sintering was obtained. The required temperature for process progression was 2100°C that achieved after 1380 s. Moreover, the maximum electric current was 5942.863 A, which remained constant until the end of the operation. Since HfB2 is an electrical conductor, the current easily passed through the sample with an approximately uniform distribution. To provide a better understanding of the sintering mechanisms, an electrically resistive material (Al2O3) was also simulated. The results showed a more uniform current distribution in HfB2 compared to Al2O3. It was observed that the needed temperature for sintering of alumina was obtained only by heat conduction from graphite die toward the sample, whereas HfB2 benefited both mechanisms of heat conduction and Joule heating inside the sample.
Same‐sex partnership in the family policies of Japan, Singapore, and Taiwan
Authors: Chung Wei‐Yun
Published: September 2021

Discussions about Asian same‐sex partnerships (SSPs) and queer families are relatively few due to their low social visibility and lack of legal recognition. Aiming to explore the relationship between the state and queer families beyond the Western context, I examine the connections between family‐related policies and laws, marriage and family norms, and SSPs in Japan, Singapore, and Taiwan. These three countries encourage marriage and parenthood within marriage, but they have different policies and laws on same‐sex relationships. By comparing how family‐related laws and policies in Japan, Singapore, and Taiwan treat SSPs and queer families, I find that policies with similar goals can be implemented differently. I also examine the long‐lasting heteronormativity and emerging homonormativity in these policies and laws. I further argue that legally and socially constructed connections between family, kin networks, and marriage should be considered in policy making and in academic discussions around SSP in Asia.
Social tax expenditures in Quebec (Canada): The state of play
Authors: Provencher Ysabel , Godbout Luc , St‐Cerny Suzie
Published: September 2021

The purpose of this article is to better understand the architecture of social protection as a complex and evolving system in contemporary societies. To achieve that goal, we establish an inventory of 65 socio‐fiscal expenditures or social tax expenditures (STEs) of Quebec's (Canada) personal income tax system. These include tax expenditures related to social protection insofar as they contribute in one way or another to the protection against major social risks, the improvement of living conditions and to the fight against exclusion and social inequalities. STEs were selected taking into account the objective pursued (supporting income, promoting pensions, helping employment, recognising family responsibilities, encouraging education, pursuing a specific social objective, and promoting tax equity) and the type of tax break (tax credits, exemptions, etc.). The classification reveals the extent of recourse to taxation as a complementary tool for public intervention in the field of social protection.
Les déterminants des disparités salariales au sein du groupe des salariés réguliers en Inde: analyse sur la période 1993–2012
Authors: MENON Rahul
Published: September 2021

L'auteur utilise des méthodes de décomposition pour estimer le poids respectif d'une série de facteurs dans les disparités salariales au sein du groupe des salariés réguliers en Inde sur la période 1993‐2012. Il distingue aussi le rôle des caractéristiques elles‐měmes de celui de leur rendement dans l'écart et son évolution. Si la détention d'un diplôme du supérieur joue un rôle prépondérant, certains facteurs institutionnels (affiliation syndicale, emploi dans le secteur public) sont également déterminants. Pour expliquer les inégalités, on ne peut donc pas se contenter d'analyser les facteurs démographiques et techniques. Il faut aussi considérer les caractéristiques institutionnelles de l'économie.
A trauma informed response to COVID 19 and the deteriorating mental health of refugees and asylum seekers with insecure status in Australia
Authors: Kenny Mary Anne , Grech Carol , Procter Nicholas
Published: September 2021

COVID‐19 brings increased risk to the mental health of asylum seekers and refugees in Australia on temporary visas. Rapid government changes due to the COVID‐19 pandemic are resulting in significant and sustained hardship on this already vulnerable group. This discursive paper is both an explainer and a resource for mental health nurses and health professionals with scope of practice in primary care and emergency departments responding to this population. The aim of this paper is to alert clinicians to the drivers of mental and suicide related distress and to provide recommendations as to how to therapeutically engage and support this group. Drivers include complex intersections between legal uncertainty, economic, social and mental health stress as drivers of entrapment, acute mental distress and suicidal ideation. Information about the COVID‐19 related factors as drivers contributing to worsening states of distress may help guide clinicians to consider protective factors designed to mitigate the onset or worsening of mental distress, plus aid in the development of health policy and service‐delivery arrangements of support and therapeutic engagement.
Examining the links between conspiracy beliefs and the EU “Brexit” referendum vote in the UK: Evidence from a two‐wave survey
Authors: Jolley Daniel , Douglas Karen M. , Marchlewska Marta , Cichocka Aleksandra , Sutton Robbie M.
Published: September 2021

This research examined the link between conspiracy beliefs and political decisions in the context of the 2016 European Union referendum in the United Kingdom. In a longitudinal study, we surveyed British participants at two‐time points (one week before the referendum vs. immediately after the referendum). At both time points, participants (n = 334) indicated their belief in conspiracy theories specific to the referendum, their general tendencies toward conspiracy theorizing, their political orientation, and support for leaving the EU, followed by how they voted in the referendum, taken at Time 2. Using cross‐lagged path analysis, we found that conspiracy beliefs specific to the referendum predicted both support for leaving the EU, and voting to leave the EU, above and beyond political orientation. We also found that the general tendency toward conspiracy theorizing predicted belief in conspiracy theories relevant to the referendum, which subsequently led to increased support for leaving the EU. The chief novelty of this research lies in its longitudinal design, allowing us to conclude that conspiracy beliefs precede political behaviors in a temporal sequence.
Establishing the blood reference interval of pancreatic elastase‐1: A prospective study
Authors: Chi Su‐Fen , Lai Chia‐Yeh , Dong Wei‐Ting , Wang Jiunn‐Min , Wang Ya‐Yu , Yang Sheng‐Shun , Lin Jaw‐Town , Lee Teng‐Yu
Published: September 2021

Background and Aim

Pancreatic elastase‐1 (PE‐1) has been investigated in pancreatic disorders. However, the reference interval (RI) of PE‐1 in blood remains unconfirmed. We aimed to establish the blood RI of PE‐1 in an adult population.

Methods

In this prospective cross‐sectional study, we enrolled 400 adults who had received the whole‐body physical check‐up program between May 1, 2019 and November 20, 2019. The serum and plasma PE‐1 levels were measured by latex turbidimetric immunoassay in different storage conditions (fresh, refrigerated, and frozen). The 95% and 99% RI of PE‐1 were calculated according to the Clinical & Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines. The correlations between PE‐1 and other parameters were analyzed using multivariable regression models. Ultimately, 38 patients with acute pancreatitis were prospectively recruited as the validation cohort.

Results

The PE‐1 levels in fresh serum were highly correlated with those in refrigerated (R2 = 0.998) or frozen (R2 = 0.942) samples; however, plasma should not be suggested in frozen conditions (plasma vs serum: R2 = 0.185). In the RI study population (202 male & 198 female participants), the median age was 52.6 (25–75% interquartile range: 43.1–61.0). The 95% and 99% RIs of PE‐1 were 30.0–221.0 and 22.0–359.0 ng/dL, respectively. Triglycerides (β = 0.106, P = 0.033), lipase (β = 0.154, P = 0.007), and CA19–9 (β = 0.130, P = 0.008) were independent factors associated with PE‐1. In the pancreatitis validation cohort, with a cut‐off value of 359.0 ng/dL, the sensitivity and specificity were 100% and 99.8%, respectively.

Conclusion

The RI of PE‐1 established in this study can be used for further applications. Serum is the suggested form for frozen sample storage.
Differentiation of multiple system atrophy subtypes by gray matter atrophy
Authors: Campabadal Anna , Abos Alexandra , Segura Barbara , Monte‐Rubio Gemma , Perez‐Soriano Alexandra , Giraldo Darly Milena , Muñoz Esteban , Compta Yaroslau , Junque Carme , Marti Maria Jose
Published: September 2021

Background and Purpose

Multiple system atrophy(MSA) is a rare adult‐onset synucleinopathy that can be divided in two subtypes depending on whether the prevalence of its symptoms is more parkinsonian or cerebellar (MSA‐P and MSA‐C, respectively). The aim of this work is to investigate the structural MRI changes able to discriminate MSA phenotypes.

Methods

The sample includes 31 MSA patients (15 MSA‐C and 16 MSA‐P) and 39 healthy controls. Participants underwent a comprehensive motor and neuropsychological battery. MRI data were acquired with a 3T scanner (MAGNETOM Trio, Siemens, Germany). FreeSurfer was used to obtain volumetric and cortical thickness measures. A Support Vector Machine (SVM) algorithm was used to assess the classification between patients’ group using cortical and subcortical structural data.

Results

After correction for multiple comparisons, MSA‐C patients had greater atrophy than MSA‐P in the left cerebellum, whereas MSA‐P showed reduced volume bilaterally in the pallidum and putamen. Using deep gray matter volume ratios and mean cortical thickness as features, the SVM algorithm provided a consistent classification between MSA‐C and MSA‐P patients (balanced accuracy 74.2%, specificity 75.0%, and sensitivity 73.3%). The cerebellum, putamen, thalamus, ventral diencephalon, pallidum, and caudate were the most contributing features to the classification decision (z > 3.28; p < .05 [false discovery rate]).

Conclusions

MSA‐C and MSA‐P with similar disease severity and duration have a differential distribution of gray matter atrophy. Although cerebellar atrophy is a clear differentiator between groups, thalamic and basal ganglia structures are also relevant contributors to distinguishing MSA subtypes.
Functions of social networks in maternal food choice for children in Mexico
Authors: Reyes Ligia I. , Frongillo Edward A. , Moore Spencer , Blake Christine E. , Gonzalez Wendy , Bonvecchio Anabelle
Published: September 2021

Food choice for children has important implications in establishing early‐life dietary habits and preferences. Food choice for children has been studied as parent–child dyad dynamics, but little is known about the extended system of relationships in maternal food choice for children. The objective of this study was to understand the functions of mothers' social networks in the food choices that mothers make for their children ages 1 to 5 years old in rural Mexico. In‐depth interviews were conducted with 46 participants in three rural communities. The interviews inquired about participants' child‐feeding practices, personal and local beliefs about child feeding and the individuals with whom they had conversations about food and child feeding. All interviews were conducted in Spanish, audio‐recorded, transcribed verbatim, verified for quality and analysed using the constant comparative method. Five interconnected networks emerged, consisting of household family, non‐household family, community, children's initial school and health and nutritional programme personnel. Each network had functions in food choice that ranged from shared food decision‐making in the household family network to imparting formal dietary guidance in the health and nutritional programme personnel network. Across the networks, professionals, participants' mothers and mothers‐in‐law, community senior women and other women with children emerged as prominent figures whom participants would turn to for child‐feeding advice. These findings provide empirical evidence that social networks, as an organized system of interconnected relationships, have vital functions in establishing social norms for food choices made for children that can be leveraged to promote healthy food choices.
Right ventricular dilatation and systolic dysfunction and relationship to QRS duration in patients with left bundle branch block and cardiomyopathy
Authors: Park Seung‐Jung , Kwon Deborah H , Rickard John W , Varma Niraj
Published: September 2021

Background

Marked QRS widening in patients with left bundle branch block (LBBB) may reduce efficacy of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). We hypothesized that extreme QRS prolongation may accompany right ventricular (RV) dilatation/systolic dysfunction (RVD/RVsD) as well as left ventricular dilatation/systolic dysfunction (LVD/LVsD).

Methods

We assessed rates of both ventricular dilatation and systolic dysfunction according to widening of QRS duration (QRSd) in 100 consecutive cardiomyopathy patients with true LBBB (QRSd ≥ 130 ms in female or ≥140 ms in male, QS or rS in leads V1/V2, and mid‐QRS notching/slurring in ≥2 contiguous leads of I, aVL, and V1/V2/V5/V6). Ventricular dimensions and function were measured by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging.

Results

There was a trend toward an increase in the prevalence of LVD (13%, 20%, and 90%), LVsD (67%, 77%, and 90%), RVD (23%, 27%, and 50%), RVsD (27%, 27%, and 40%), RVD plus RVsD (13%, 17%, and 40%), or RVD/RVsD (37%, 37%, and 50%) according to the degree of QRS prolongation (<150 ms, n = 30; 150–180 ms, n = 60; and ≥180 ms, n = 10). Similarly, patients in the highest quartile of QRSd (QRSd ≥ 168 ms, n = 26) showed greater rates of RVD (23% vs. 44%, p = .069), RVsD (22% vs. 48%, p = .032), RVD plus RVsD (10% vs. 30%, p = .040), or RVD/RVsD (33% vs. 57%, p = .050) compared to those in the remaining quartiles (n = 74). QRSd ≥ 180 ms was identified as an independent predictor for the presence of RVD plus RVsD.

Conclusion

The rates of RVD and/or RVsD increased with QRS widening, particularly when QRSd exceeded 180 ms. This may diminish anticipated CRT response rates in cardiomyopathy patients with LBBB.
Pinnipeds and salmon farming: Threats, conflicts and challenges to co‐existence after 50 years of industrial growth and expansion
Authors: Heredia‐Azuaje Heide , Niklitschek Edwin J. , Sepúlveda Maritza
Published: September 2021

In this review, we summarize and discuss the main interactions affecting salmon farming and pinniped populations worldwide. Out of seven pinnipeds commonly engaged in these interactions, only one, Eumetopias jubatus, is currently listed, as ‘Near Threatened’, by the IUCN. This scenario may change as the salmon farming industry is expanding to higher latitudes and climate change is threatening many pinniped populations. Pinniped attacks cause productive and economic losses, equivalent to 1%–12% of gross production costs, due to predation, induced escapes and implementing deterrent measures. Other potential negative effects on the industry remain unassessed: lower fish growth, immunosuppression, diseases transmission, damaging infrastructure and injuring farmworkers. Main direct threats to pinnipeds include intended and unintended killing, which lack independent quantifications and have generated a growing number of ethical, economic and socio‐political concerns, as well as trade regulations affecting the industry. Physical perturbation, pollution, nutrification and/or prey subsidies related to this industry may induce behavioural, trophic and social changes, as well as breeding and/or foraging habitat loss/change in impacted areas. Despite their relevance, the magnitude and consequences of these potential impacts have been poorly evaluated and documented, precluding us from assembling accurate assessments on most interactions. Hence, we recommend focusing further research on assessing the effects of these interactions and make a call for implementing and maintaining reliable and independent records of: (i) intended and unintended killings and (ii) demography of affected populations. Implementing an ecosystem approach may be key to reduce negative impacts of salmon farming on pinnipeds and coastal ecosystems.
Molecular phylogeny and systematics of the subgenus Oxyphortica Duda from the Oriental region (Diptera: Drosophilidae: Stegana)
Authors: Wang Ya‐Lian , Lu Jin‐Ming , Gao Jian‐Jun , Zhang Yuan , Chen Hong‐Wei
Published: September 2021

Phylogenetic analysis of DNA sequences of three mitochondrial (COI, COII and ND2) and six nuclear (28S, atpA, CAD, EF2, HSPA4 and TUBA1) gene regions recovered a novel lineage (Crypsistegana subgen.n.) and lends support to the monophyly of the subgenus Oxyphortica. Integrating molecular and morphological evidence, we revise the taxonomic status of Oxyphortica, reclassify species of uncertain affinity into four new species groups (adentata, geisson, polystylata and subconvergens) and place five new species discovered from southern China in Crypsistegana subgen.n. and two species groups (geisson and polystylata) of Oxyphortica, respectively. To evaluate the performance of individual genes in phylogenetic inference, the phylogenetic informativeness profiles were generated. The results reveal mitochondrial loci possess much greater phylogenetic signal to resolve species‐level relationships, while nuclear loci perform better at the subgenus level within the genus Stegana. In addition, both tectonic and climatic events appear to have played pivotal roles in the diversification of Oxyphortica. The present distribution pattern of this subgenus might have been shaped from a rapid adaptive radiation in Southwest China as a secondary area of endemicity.
Empirically Incoherent Quantum Gravity
Authors: Norton Joshua
Published: September 2021

It is argued that certain quantum theories of gravity — string theory, loop quantum gravity, non‐commutative field theory — do not include spacetime as part of their fundamental ontology. There is a concern in the literature that theories of this kind are physically opaque and empirically incoherent. In this paper, I clarify and amend Huggett and Wüthrich's argument against these claims. Whereas the content of this paper centres on the disappearance and re‐emergence of spacetime in quantum gravity, much of the philosophical work centres more generally on issues of (emergent) ontology and how this ontology can be extracted from formal theories, the role of formal derivations in justifying ontological relations, the nature of Kuhnian revolutions, and the application of these revolutions to quantum gravity.
Use of TaqMan Array Cards to investigate the aetiological agents of diarrhoea among young infants with severe acute malnutrition
Authors: Palit Parag , Nuzhat Sharika , Khan Shaila Sharmeen , Gazi Md Amran , Islam Md Ridwan , Islam Md Ohedul , Mahfuz Mustafa , Liu Jie , Houpt Eric R. , Haque Rashidul , Ahmed Tahmeed
Published: September 2021

Objective

Studies involving less sensitive conventional microscopy and culture‐based approaches have identified distinct differences in diarrhoeal aetiology in childhood malnutrition. Our study involved the use of an advanced molecular biology technique, the TaqMan Array Cards (TAC), to elucidate the diarrhoeal aetiology among young infants with severe acute malnutrition (SAM).

Method

A total of 113 faecal samples was collected from SAM infants, aged 2–6 months, upon admission to the Dhaka Hospital of the International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b) with complications of diarrhoea and related comorbidities. We used TAC for the detection of 29 different diarrhoeal enteropathogens from a single faecal sample. For comparison, we also analysed 25 diarrhoeal samples from well‐nourished infants of similar age.

Results

Higher odds of detection of all bacterial enteropathogens were associated with diarrhoea among SAM infants. In particular, the detection of Aeromonas sp (aOR: 25.7, p = 0.011), Campylobacter sp (aOR: 9.6, p < 0.01) and ETEC (aOR: 5.2, p = 0.022) was significantly associated with diarrhoea among SAM infants in comparison to well‐nourished infants. 80% higher odds of detection of rotavirus and norovirus GII were associated with diarrhoea among well‐nourished infants in comparison to SAM infants (aOR: 0.2, p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our study findings demonstrate a difference in diarrhoeal aetiology among SAM and well‐nourished young infants, which may be useful in providing an evidence‐based logic for possible revision of treatment guidelines for treatment of young diarrhoeal infants with SAM in the early management of the menace of antimicrobial resistance.
Relationship between transfusion burden, healthcare resource utilization, and complications in patients with beta‐thalassemia in Taiwan: A real‐world analysis
Authors: Tang Chao‐Hsiun , Furnback Wesley , Wang Bruce C. M. , Tang Jackson , Tang Derek , Lu Meng‐Yao , Huang Vicky W.‐H. , Musallam Khaled M.
Published: September 2021

Background

This study utilized a population‐based claims database to identify patients with beta‐thalassemia and evaluate associations between transfusion burden, healthcare resource utilization (HCRU), and complications.

Study design and methods

Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database was used to identify patients with beta‐thalassemia (ICD‐10 D56.1) in 2016. Patients with a beta‐thalassemia claim in 2016 were indexed into the study at their first claim on or after January 1, 2001 in the dataset through to December 31, 2016 and followed until the end of study. During the follow‐up period, red blood cell transfusion (RBCT) units, HCRU, iron chelation therapy use, and beta‐thalassemia‐related complications incidence were recorded. Patients were grouped into transfusion burden severity cohorts based on average number of RBCT units per 12 weeks during follow‐up: 0 RBCT units, >0 to <6 RBCT units (mild), ≥6 to <12 RBCT units (moderate), and ≥12 RBCT units (severe).

Results

A total of 2984 patients were included with mean follow‐up of 6.95 years. Of these, 1616 (54.2%) patients had no claims for RBCT units, 1112 (37.3%) had claims for >0 to <6 RBCT units, 112 (3.8%) for ≥6 to <12 RBCT units, and 144 (4.8%) for ≥12 RBCT units per 12 weeks. Transfused patients had significantly more all‐cause HCRU and iron chelation therapy compared with non‐transfused patients during follow‐up. Thalassemia‐related HCRU and risk of liver, endocrine, cardiac, and renal complications were significantly and positively correlated with increases of RBCT units.

Discussion

Clinical and healthcare resource burden of patients with beta‐thalassemia is closely related to transfusion burden.
Syndromic surveillance of the frequency and severity of respiratory compromise of brachycephalic dogs in ICUs
Authors: Barchard‐Couts Adrienne ,   on behalf of the Brachycephalic Study Group, Rozanski Elizabeth
Published: September 2021

Background

Brachycephalic dogs (BCD) are increasingly popular companion animals and widely recognized to suffer from respiratory compromise based upon their conformation; however, the actual percentages of BCD in veterinary ICUs are unknown. This study aimed to evaluate a canine ICU census, as well as the presence, development, and severity of respiratory compromise in BCD using syndromic surveillance.

Key Findings

Ten institutions provided surveillance data twice weekly over an 11‐week study period. The total canine ICU census was 1254 dogs hospitalized during the days and times of the study period; of this population, 125 (10%) were BCD. Fifty‐six (45%) BCD were hospitalized in ICUs because they were perceived to be at risk of respiratory complications while recovering from general anesthesia or had a nonrespiratory condition requiring ICU admission, with the remaining 69 dogs (55%) being treated for respiratory disease. Twenty dogs (16%) developed respiratory complications requiring ICU admission after initially being hospitalized for another condition. Four percent of dogs were supported with mechanical ventilation.

Clinical Significance

Syndromic surveillance was a useful method for evaluating the number of BCD in a veterinary ICU. Almost 1 in 5 BCD developed respiratory compromise after initial evaluation for an unrelated problem. Ongoing evaluation of the medical issues associated with brachycephaly is warranted.
Successful treatment of prolonged refractory ventricular fibrillation in an anesthetized dog
Authors: Gatson Bonnie J. , Swift Simon , Paranjape Vaidehi
Published: September 2021

Objective

To describe a case of successful return of spontaneous circulation in an anesthetized dog that developed spontaneous ventricular fibrillation during CPR that was refractory to multiple defibrillation attempts by utilizing pharmacological antiarrhythmic therapy.

Case summary

Cardiopulmonary arrest occurred during surgical preparation in a 1‐year‐old German Shepherd Dog under general anesthesia for fluoroscopic implantation of an Amplatz canine duct occluder for treatment of a patent ductus arteriosus. Pulseless electrical activity was initially diagnosed, and resuscitative efforts were immediately initiated, including basic cardiac life support, discontinuation of anesthesia with administration of reversal agents, and low‐dose epinephrine administration (0.01 mg/kg, IV). After 10 minutes of CPR, the patient developed ventricular fibrillation and single‐dose monophasic defibrillation attempts of escalating energy were performed. Despite these efforts, return of spontaneous circulation was unable to be achieved. However, administration of magnesium sulfate (20 mg/kg, IV) along with an additional single monophasic defibrillation attempt was successful in achieving return of spontaneous circulation.

New or unique information provided

Under current advanced cardiac life support guidelines, the best resuscitation strategy for refractory ventricular fibrillation, in which the arrhythmia persists despite multiple defibrillation attempts, remains unclear. This is especially true for veterinary patients, where refractory ventricular fibrillation is an uncommon cardiac arrest rhythm. Although guidelines for the use of antiarrhythmic therapy during cardiac arrest are well established in human medicine, evidence‐based guidelines to support best practices in companion animals do not exist due to sparse data gathered through experimental studies. Only a few case reports describe successful return of spontaneous circulation following prolonged ventricular fibrillation in clinical veterinary patients. Although the use of magnesium sulfate as an antiarrhythmic agent during refractory ventricular fibrillation has been previously reported in people, this is the first case to our knowledge of refractory ventricular fibrillation in a dog that responded to magnesium sulfate.
Progress in the development and application of permeable reaction barriers for remediation of dissolved oil contaminants in groundwater
Authors: Shen Huan , Huang Yong , Su Yue
Published: September 2021

As a technology for in situ treatment and remediation of groundwater contamination, permeable reaction barriers (PRBs) have the advantages of operational efficiency and low infrastructure footprint. In order to clarify previous research results and provide references for future research on remediation of contamination by dissolved oil contaminants in groundwater, the focus of this article is to review and compare the application of PRBs for the removal of dissolved oil contaminants and highlights the research gaps. We concentrate on the relationship between structure design, media types and service life of PRBs, along with groundwater flow velocity, temperature, pH and other hydrochemical conditions. These influencing factors are used to make a detailed explanation and analysis of remediation of oil contamination in groundwater. The current application of PRBs is mainly limited to heavy metals and inorganics, rather than persistent organics such as components in oil. The application of new PRB materials and combination of multiple remediation technologies in oil‐contaminated sites will be the focus of future research.