bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cigarette smoking decline among US young adults from 2000 to 2019, in relation to state-level cigarette price and tobacco control expenditure
Authors: Messer Karen , Pierce John P , Chen Jiayu , Luo Man , Stone Matthew D , Leas Eric C , Shi Yuyan , Strong David R , Trinidad Dennis R , McMenamin Sara B
Published: July 2024

Objective

To investigate the association of state-level cigarette price and tobacco control expenditure with the large 2000–2019 decline in cigarette smoking among US 18–24 year-olds.

Methods

Smoking behaviour was assessed in the 24 most populous US states using the 1992–2019 Tobacco Use Supplements to the Current Population Survey; association with price and expenditure was tested using adjusted logistic regression. States were ranked by inflation-adjusted average price and tobacco control expenditure and grouped into tertiles. State-specific time trends were estimated, with slope changes in 2001/2002 and 2010/2011.

Results

Between 2000 and 2010, the odds of smoking among US young adults decreased by a third (adjusted OR, AOR 0.68, 95% CI 0.56 to 0.84). By 2019, these odds were one-quarter of their 2000 level (AOR 0.24, 95% CI 0.19 to 0.31). Among states in the lowest tertile of price/expenditure tobacco control activity, initially higher young adult smoking decreased by 13 percentage points from 2010 to 2018–2019, to a prevalence of 5.6% (95% CI 4.5% to 6.8%), equal to that in the highest tobacco-control tertile of states (6.5%, 95% CI 5.2% to 7.8%). Neither state tobacco control spending (AOR 1.0, 95% CI 0.999 to 1.002) nor cigarette price (AOR 0.96, 95% CI: 0.92 to 1.01) were associated with young adult smoking in statistical models. In 2019, seven states had prevalence over 3 SDs higher than the 24-state mean.

Conclusion

National programmes may have filled a gap in state-level interventions, helping drive down the social acceptability of cigarette smoking among young adults across all states. Additional interventions are needed to assist high-prevalence states to further reduce smoking.
Temporal snacking patterns among Canadian children and adolescents
Authors: Tugault-Lafleur Claire N. , Polsky Jane Y.
Published: July 2024

Snacking is nearly universal among children but there is growing concern around snacking patterns and energy contribution. This study aimed to characterize temporal snacking patterns among Canadian children and adolescents. A cross-sectional analysis drew on data from 5209 respondents aged 4–18 years from the 2015 Canadian Community Health Survey Nutrition, using one 24 h dietary recall. Descriptive statistics estimated proportions of morning, afternoon, and evening snackers, the mean caloric contribution of each snacking period to total daily energy intake, and the top food categories consumed as snacks (kcal per capita). Snacking was nearly universal and accounted for one of every four calories consumed. Morning snacks were more popular among children vs. adolescents and contributed significantly less energy than afternoon or evening snacking periods for both age groups ( P < 0.001). The top food groups consumed as snacks were the same for children and adolescents, although the ranking order varied. Fruits were the leading food group in terms of per capita energy for children and second for adolescents. Aside from fruits and milks, all other top per capita energy contributors were generally more energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods such as cookies, biscuits and cereal bars, and other breads. Among children, morning snacks were higher in desirable nutrients compared with afternoon snacks. Not all snacking periods are equal in terms of energy and nutrients. A better understanding of how time of day may influence the quality of snack foods can inform meal-based guidance and help children achieve the recommended daily amounts of foods and nutrients.
Static and spherically symmetric vacuum spacetimes with non-expanding principal null directions in f(R) gravity
Authors: Guilabert Alberto , Calzada Pelayo V. , Bargueño Pedro , Miret-Artés Salvador
Published: July 2024

In this work we characterize all the static and spherically symmetric vacuum solutions in f(R) gravity when the principal null directions of the Weyl tensor are non-expanding. In contrast to General Relativity, we show that the Nariai spacetime is not the only solution of this type when general f(R) theories are considered. In particular, we find four different solutions for the non-constant Ricci scalar case, all of them corresponding to the same theory, given by $$f(R) = r_0^{-1}\left|R-3/r_0^2\right|^{1/2}$$

f

(
R
)

=

r
0

-
1

R
-
3
/

r
0
2

1
/
2

, where $$r_0$$

r
0

is a non-null constant. Finally, we briefly present some geometric properties of these solutions.
THE INNOVATION SPILLOVER EFFECT: HOW HOUSEHOLD INGENUITY SPILLS INTO BUSINESS INNOVATION
Authors: STOCK-HOMBURG RUTH MARIA , KIETZMANN MEIKE VERENA
Published: July 2024

This study investigates a previously overlooked source of employees’ innovative behaviour in the business sector, namely household innovation. Specifically, we seek to explore the spillover of behavioural innovation prototyping experiences between the household and the business sector. Drawing on spillover theory, we explore the bidirectional flow of behavioural innovation prototyping experiences between the household and the business sector. Through a tripartite online survey with 330 working participants over four months, we show how household innovation prototyping experiences affect innovative behaviour in the business sector. Relying on person–environment fit theory, we also examine how this effect may be strengthened by certain contingency factors. Results show that the relationship between spillover effects and employees’ innovative behaviour in the business sector is strengthened by employees’ technology readiness.
Performance and Communication Cost of Hardware Accelerators for Hashing in Post-Quantum Cryptography
Authors: Karl Patrick , Schupp Jonas , Sigl Georg
Published: July 2024

SPHINCS+ is a signature scheme included in the first NIST post-quantum standard, that bases its security on the underlying hash primitive. As most of the runtime of SPHINCS+ is caused by the evaluation of several hash- and pseudo-random functions, offloading this computation to dedicated hardware accelerators is a natural step. In this work, we evaluate different architectures for hardware acceleration of such a hash primitive with respect to its use-case and evaluate them in the context of SPHINCS+. We attach hardware accelerators for different hash primitives (SHAKE128 and Ascon-Xof for both, full and round-reduced versions) to CPU interfaces having different transfer speeds. We show, that for most use-cases, data transfer determines the overall performance if accelerators are equipped with FIFOs and that reducing the number of rounds in the permutation does not necessarily lead to significant performance improvements when using hardware acceleration.

This work extends on a conference paper accepted at COSADE’24, first published in [19], and written by the same authors, where different architectures for hardware accelerators of hash functions are benchmarked and evaluated for SPHINCS+ as a case study. In this paper, we provide results for additional parameter sets for SPHINCS+ and improve the performance of one of the accelerators by adding an additional RISC-V instruction for faster absorption. We then extend the performance benchmark by including the algorithms CRYSTALS-Kyber, CRYSTALS-Dilithium and Falcon. Finally we provide a power/energy comparison for the accelerators.
Dimensions of Arachnoid Bulk Ratio: A Superior Optic Nerve Sheath Index for Intracranial Pressure
Authors: Berhanu David , Carneiro Inês , Antunes Ana Patrícia , Abegão Pinto Luís , Fragata Isabel , Tavares Ferreira Joana , Lucas Neto Lia
Published: July 2024

The novel dimensions of arachnoid bulk ratio of the optic nerve sheath helped to accurately detect increased intracranial pressure, outperforming traditional optic nerve sheath diameter measurements.
Radiation‐Induced Low‐Grade Glioma following Radiotherapy for Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Scalp: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Ahmed Moayad. M. Z. , Abdelradi Fawaz. E. M. , ELfeel Rabee A.
Published: July 2024

Introduction. Radiation‐induced gliomas (RIGs) were reported in the literature in general. In most of the reported cases and the reviewed articles, patients have a history of primary intracranial tumors like craniopharyngioma, medulloblastoma, and ependymoma, and the commonly resulting secondary tumors are meningiomas and sarcomas, mainly not gliomas. Case Presentation. A 50‐year‐old woman had a history of left scalp temporal region periauricular squamous cell carcinoma, which was verified by the histology result of a biopsy 11 years ago. On the basis of that, she began receiving low‐dose radiation sessions when she was 39 years old. She exhibits cranial symptoms and a radiological sign of cancer 9 years later. After a successful excision procedure, histology revealed diffuse astrocytoma Grade 2. Our case is suspected to fit the criteria for being identified as RIG, which is a syndrome that is thought to occur infrequently in the literature. Conclusion. In conclusion, the way that this condition manifested in our case is considered rare due to old age and the low doses of radiation received. Despite being an important part to confirm the diagnosis, genetic studies were unfortunately not done in our case, but we mainly based on the criteria mentioned by Cahan et al., which are mainly taken from the clinical history and histopathology. Here, we present an example of considering such a diagnosis when suspected clinically, but a genetic study for confirmation should be thought of even if it is not available in the locality.
Complanatuside A Inhibits Seminal Vesicle Cell Apoptosis by Activating SerpinB1a in Type 2 Diabetic Mice
Authors: Ni Dawei , Liu Kun , You Bin , Wu Ning , Wu Wei , Zhang Yanbin , Yang Baibing , Dai Yutian
Published: July 2024

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) can trigger cell apoptosis of seminal vesicles (SVs) and impair seminal secretory functions. Complanatuside A (CA) is known for its anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant effects, as well as its ability to repair cellular damage. This study aimed to explore the potential molecular mechanisms through which CA mitigates cell apoptosis in the SVs of type 2 diabetic mice. A streptozotocin‐induced type 2 diabetic mice model was utilized, and a 1‐month intervention using CA (70 mg/kg) was administered. We monitored body weight, blood glucose levels, SV volume, and concentration of SV fluid. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was used to assess tissue damage. RNA sequencing was applied to identify differential gene expression, and the expression of target genes (ARG2, PBK, SerpinB1a, E2F2) was verified by qRT‐PCR. Changes in the apoptosis level of SV tissues in mice were detected with TUNEL staining. Compared to the control group, mice with T2DM exhibited decreased SV volume and SV fluid content, which was improved with CA treatment. Elevated expression of SerpinB1a and reduced apoptosis were observed in the T2DM‐CA group compared to T2DM mice. In summary, CA can inhibit cell apoptosis in the SVs, there by improving tissue damage in type 2 diabetic mice. SerpinB1a may be involved in this process. This study provides a new theoretical foundation for the treatment of seminal vesicle secretory dysfunction in type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Multiple Parameters Determination Method of Hardening Soil Model Based on Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors: Xiao Jingfeng , Wang Qunwei , Zhang Qianhui , Hei Yunpeng , Zhang Youliang
Published: July 2024

The utilization of numerical analytic techniques has become essential in evaluating the environmental consequences of excavation in foundation pits. The careful selection of suitable soil constitutive models has significant importance in this regard. The Hardening Soil (HS) model has become widely utilized in the numerical analysis of foundation pits among the several models considered. The essence of a constitutive model is in the identification and determination of its calculation parameters. The stress–strain curve is derived by conducting triaxial testing, utilizing the inherent properties of the particle swarm optimization (PSO) technique. The objective function entails quantifying the disparity between stress–strain curves obtained from various parameters and experimental curves while iteratively searching for five crucial parameters of soil‐hardening models: effective internal friction angle φ, effective cohesion, failure ratio Rf, stiffness level‐dependent power exponent, and standard triaxial‐drained test secant stiffness . The objective of this research is to create a computational software utilizing the Python programming language to execute PSO with the purpose of determining sets of five fundamental soil constitutive parameters. This research employs optimized parameters acquired from PSO to construct a numerical model for foundation pits and performs numerical computations. Accurate findings may be reached by comparing the measured deformation in the numerical simulation with that seen in actual foundation pits. The results demonstrate a high degree of consistency between the experimental curves and the five parameter combinations obtained through the PSO algorithm, with an error rate not exceeding 8.2%. Moreover, the optimized curves exhibit closer alignment with theoretical expectations. The settlement values calculated using a numerical model based on optimized parameters show only a 6.12% deviation from actual measurements while closely following the trend of the observed curve. This outcome has the potential to greatly alleviate the burden of conducting indoor tests and holds considerable practical value in engineering applications. The observable optimization impact of PSO also serves as evidence of its viability in improving soil constitutive parameters, providing new perspectives and sources of information for future progress in this domain.
Soft Robotic Hand Exoskeleton with Enhanced PneuNet‐Type Pneumatic Actuators for Rehabilitation and Movement Assistance
Authors: Tejada Juan C. , Toro-Ossaba Alejandro , Valencia Simón , Gallego Natalia , Jaramillo-Tigreros Juan J. , Hernandez-Martinez E. G. , López-González Alexandro
Published: July 2024

This paper presents a new soft robotic hand exoskeleton for rehabilitation and movement assistance. The proposed device is based on a novel design of a PneuNet‐type pneumatic actuator; this novel actuator design allows larger bending motions while requiring less operating pressure; additionally, the actuator has an embedded sensor that allows an accurate trajectory tracking and control. The proposed design allows safe and controlled flexion movements for each one of the fingers, which is essential for effective rehabilitation and assistance tasks. The exoskeleton effectiveness was assessed by a physical therapist, and a modified version of the Sollerman test was used. Results obtained from the evaluation procedures provided insights into the exoskeleton performance and its efficacy. Preliminary conclusions are drawn based on the findings, and potential areas for further improvement are discussed. This research contributes to the development of an advanced soft robotic hand exoskeleton for rehabilitation and movement assistance, offering controlled flexion movements and improved functionality. This study demonstrates the potential of soft actuator technology in rehabilitation, presenting new possibilities for hand trauma recovery.
Mexican American Intergenerational Research: Transformative Model of Occupational Therapy
Authors: Tafur Maritza Montiel , de la Torre Montiel Yvonne , Montiel Miguel
Published: July 2024

Thirty‐seven interviews of Mexican American women who crossed the border into the United States during the era of the Mexican Revolution of 1910 were analyzed using constructivist grounded theory methods. The intent is to expand the occupational therapy profession’s occupational consciousness and cultivate cultural humility. Four themes emerged from the data: suffering, work, yearning for an education, and compassion for others. The findings suggest that environmental barriers such as hierarchy (patriarchy and discrimination) and physical barriers (limited access to built environments, lack of nonexploitative work opportunities, and hostile educational institutions) prevented occupational participation. Small acts of resistance through everyday living (finding joy, playing, self‐sufficiency, and community organizing) were identified as facilitators of occupational participation. The research findings challenge proposed assumptions found within the occupational therapy literature: (1) humans and occupations exist as separate from their environments, and (2) work, productivity, and leisure contribute positively to health. The Transformative Model of Occupational Therapy is introduced as a decolonized framework that inextricably links individual health to community and global health. The model centers play, social participation, work, and education as occupations that contribute to the common good. These occupations are kept in equilibrium within the Four Pillars of Culture (self‐determination, compassion, sustainability, and language) or the cultural values identified and derived from the stories.
Evaluating the Effectiveness and Safety of Fecal Management Systems among Severely Ill Patients Suffering from Fecal Incontinence: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Zhou Xiecheng , Yue Ying , Gong Lifeng , Wang Huipeng , Xin Zhou , Cui Yuhui , Chen Wenjie , Wang Xin , Shi Jian , Cai Yuankun
Published: July 2024

Background. Few large‐sample studies have examined the use of fecal management systems (FMSs) in intensive care units (ICUs) or evaluated the associated complications. This study aims to assess the effectiveness and safety of FMS for stool diversion in ICU patients with fecal incontinence (FI). Methods. We enrolled 381 FI patients, assigning them to either an FMS group (n = 134), which used a fecal management device, or a usual care (UC) group (n = 247) that received standard care including regular perianal cleaning. Results. The FMS group reported lower incidence and severity of incontinence‐associated dermatitis (IAD) and higher Braden Scale scores (10.42 ± 2.77) compared to the UC group (9.71 ± 2.56), indicating reduced pressure ulcer risk. Notably, FMS‐associated complications were minimal, with only 5 patients (3.73%) affected; one required surgical intervention for rectal mucosal bleeding. Conclusions. FMS significantly reduced stool‐associated skin irritation, lowered the incidence of IAD and pressure injuries, and improved nurses’ convenience compared to UC.
Chemoprevention of Head and Neck Cancer: A Review of Current Approaches and Future Perspectives
Authors: Han Sanghoon , Bommireddy Ramireddy , Kim Pauline , Selvaraj Periasamy , Shin Dong M.
Published: July 2024

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a spectrum of heterogeneous malignancies. A variety of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors contribute to the development of HNSCC. Carcinogenesis is a multistep process in which cell proliferation–associated oncogenes and cell-cycle regulation–associated tumor suppressor genes are dysregulated, resulting in premalignant lesions. Immune evasion is a critical step in the progression of benign lesions to advanced cancer. This review discusses the advances that have been made in chemoprevention strategies for HNSCC. The rationale for the use of chemopreventive agents to inhibit head and neck cancer development is highlighted by the positive outcomes of several clinical trials. We discuss the potential of some of the commonly studied agents including vitamin A analogs, EGFR inhibitors, COX-2 inhibitors, metabolic modulators, and natural compounds such as green tea, as well as immunotherapy and photodynamic therapy to prevent HNSCC. Our review provides insight into the potential benefits of these agents and the gaps that remain to be addressed. The published results reaffirm the promise of chemoprevention in head and neck cancer and suggest that continued exploration is needed to overcome the limitations. Because the current focus on chemopreventive agents is limited, major efforts in precision oncology approaches and substantial increase in funding will promote research into chemoprevention, which will eventually decrease the incidence of HNSCC.
Data from KRAS Promotes GLI2-Dependent Transcription during Pancreatic Carcinogenesis
Authors: Sigafoos Ashley N. , Tolosa Ezequiel J. , Carr Ryan M. , Fernandez-Barrena Maite G. , Almada Luciana L. , Pease David R. , Hogenson Tara L. , Raja Arul Glancis L. , Mousavi Fatemeh , Sen Sandhya , Vera Renzo E. , Marks David L. , Flores Luis F. , LaRue-Nolan Kayla C. , Wu Chen , Bamlet William R. , Vrabel Anne M. , Sicotte Hugues , Schenk Erin L. , Smyrk Thomas C. , Zhang Lizhi , Rabe Kari G. , Oberg Ann L. , Zaphiropoulos Peter G. , Chevet Eric , Graham Rondell P. , Hagen Catherine E. , di Magliano Marina P. , Elsawa Sherine F. , Pin Christopher L. , Mao Junhao , McWilliams Robert R. , Fernandez-Zapico Martin E.
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Aberrant activation of GLI transcription factors has been implicated in the pathogenesis of different tumor types including pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. However, the mechanistic link with established drivers of this disease remains in part elusive. In this study, using a new genetically engineered mouse model overexpressing constitutively active mouse form of GLI2 and a combination of genome-wide assays, we provide evidence of a novel mechanism underlying the interplay between KRAS, a major driver of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma development, and GLI2 to control oncogenic gene expression. These mice, also expressing KrasG12D, show significantly reduced median survival rate and accelerated tumorigenesis compared with the KrasG12D only expressing mice. Analysis of the mechanism using RNA sequencing demonstrate higher levels of GLI2 targets, particularly tumor growth–promoting genes, including Ccnd1, N-Myc, and Bcl2, in KrasG12D mutant cells. Furthermore, chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing studies showed that in these cells KrasG12D increases the levels of trimethylation of lysine 4 of the histone 3 (H3K4me3) at the promoter of GLI2 targets without affecting significantly the levels of other major active chromatin marks. Importantly, Gli2 knockdown reduces H3K4me3 enrichment and gene expression induced by mutant Kras. In summary, we demonstrate that Gli2 plays a significant role in pancreatic carcinogenesis by acting as a downstream effector of KrasG12D to control gene expression.
Perfil dos periódicos brasileiros mantidos por IES e sistema Qualis: análise dos títulos indexados na Web of Science e Scopus
Authors: Quartiero Emanoel , Silva Edna Lúcia da
Published: July 2024

Analisa características dos periódicos científicos do Brasil mantidos por Instituições de Ensino Superior (IES) e indexados nas bases Web of Science e Scopus. Para a realização deste estudo buscou-se identificar tais publicações; verificar as IES editoras e as regiões das publicações localizadas; e levantar aspectos essenciais dos periódicos, sendo eles: idioma, periodicidade, tipo de acesso, área do conhecimento, classificação Qualis-CAPES e plataforma editorial. A coleta dos dados foi realizada nas páginas Web dos periódicos, no Diretório UlrichsWeb e no site do Sistema de Regulação do Ensino Superior  (e-MEC) do Ministério da Educação no Brasil. Foram identificados 140 títulos indexados na WoS e ou Scopus. Os dados apontam as universidades como IES responsáveis pela maioria das revistas e que as regiões que comportam a maior parte dessas publicações são as sudeste e sul do Brasil. A pesquisa detecta a condição de acesso aberto dos títulos, constata que as plataformas editoriais de maior uso são o Sistema Eletrônico de Editoração de Revistas/Open Journal Systems e SciELO, e que as áreas do conhecimento predominantes são as de Ciências Sociais (26 títulos), Ciências Agrárias e Biológicas (25 títulos) e Medicina (15 títulos). Em relação aos idiomas admitidos para publicação, o português, espanhol e inglês formam a combinação mais utilizada.
O Papel do Design da Informação na Curadoria Digital do Museu da Pessoa
Authors: Kahn Karen , Jorente Maria José Vicentini
Published: July 2024

Arquivos, bibliotecas e museus deixaram de ser apenas ambientes físicos para adotar uma conformação híbrida. O Museu da Pessoa possui característica própria, dado seu design estrutural colaborativo bottom up. O objetivo geral deste artigo é estudar as transformações de design no portal do Museu da Pessoa a partir de sua criação em 1991. O objetivo especifico é entender como tais transformações se inserem no paradigma pós-custodial ou paradigma de acesso e o papel do design nesta dinâmica dialógica. A metodologia utilizada é bibliográfica exploratória e descritiva e o trabalho justifica-se pela necessidade de se conhecer novas formatações para a curadoria digital em instituições museológicas no âmbito da Ciência da Informação, bem como possíveis modelos para a preservação e interação com o patrimônio memorial da humanidade.
L-Wnk1 Deletion in Smooth Muscle Cells Causes Aortitis and Inflammatory Shift
Authors: Quelquejay Helene , Al-Rifai Rida , Silvestro Michele , Vandestienne Marie , Ferreira Irmine , Mirault Tristan , Henrion Daniel , Zhong Xiaodan , Santos-Zas Icia , Goudot Guillaume , Alayrac Paul , Robidel Estelle , Autret Gwennhael , Balvay Daniel , Taleb Soraya , Tedgui Alain , Boulanger Chantal M. , Zernecke Alma , Saliba Antoine-Emmanuel , Hadchouel Juliette , Ramkhelawon Bhama , Cochain Clement , Bergaya Sonia , Jeunemaitre Xavier , Ait-Oufella Hafid
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

The long isoform of the Wnk1 (with-no-lysine [K] kinase 1) is a ubiquitous serine/threonine kinase, but its role in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) pathophysiology remains unknown.

METHODS:

AngII (angiotensin II) was infused in

Apoe
−/−

to induce experimental aortic aneurysm. Mice carrying an
Sm22-Cre
allele were cross-bred with mice carrying a floxed
Wnk1
allele to specifically investigate the functional role of Wnk1 in VSMCs.

RESULTS:

Single-cell RNA-sequencing of the aneurysmal abdominal aorta from AngII-infused

Apoe
−/−

mice revealed that VSMCs that did not express Wnk1 showed lower expression of contractile phenotype markers and increased inflammatory activity. Interestingly, WNK1 gene expression in VSMCs was decreased in human abdominal aortic aneurysm.
Wnk1
-deficient VSMCs lost their contractile function and exhibited a proinflammatory phenotype, characterized by the production of matrix metalloproteases, as well as cytokines and chemokines, which contributed to local accumulation of inflammatory macrophages, Ly6C
hi
monocytes, and γδ T cells.
Sm22Cre+Wnk1

lox/lox

mice spontaneously developed aortitis in the infrarenal abdominal aorta, which extended to the thoracic area over time without any negative effect on long-term survival. AngII infusion in
Sm22Cre+Wnk1

lox/lox

mice aggravated the aortic disease, with the formation of lethal abdominal aortic aneurysms. Pharmacological blockade of γδ T-cell recruitment using neutralizing anti-CXCL9 (anti-CXC motif chemokine ligand 9) antibody treatment, or of monocyte/macrophage using Ki20227, a selective inhibitor of CSF1 receptor, attenuated aortitis.
Wnk1
deletion in VSMCs led to aortic wall remodeling with destruction of elastin layers, increased collagen content, and enhanced local TGF-β (transforming growth factor-beta) 1 expression. Finally, in vivo TGF-β blockade using neutralizing anti-TGF-β antibody promoted saccular aneurysm formation and aorta rupture in
Sm22 Cre+ Wnk1

lox/lox

mice but not in control animals.

CONCLUSION:

Wnk1 is a key regulator of VSMC function.
Wnk1
deletion promotes VSMC phenotype switch toward a pathogenic proinflammatory phenotype, orchestrating deleterious vascular remodeling and spontaneous severe aortitis in mice.
Body Mass Index and Hypertension as Mediators of the Association Between Age at Menarche and Subclinical Atherosclerosis: A Sex‐Specific Mendelian Randomization Analysis
Authors: Meena Devendra , Huang Jian , Dib Marie‐Joe , Chirinos Julio , Jia Manyi , Chauhan Ganesh , Gill Dipender , Elliott Paul , Dehghan Abbas , Tzoulaki Ioanna
Published: July 2024

Background

Early age at menarche (AAM) has been associated with a higher risk of carotid artery intima‐media thickness (cIMT), an indicator of subclinical vascular disease, albeit the mechanisms underlying this association remain elusive. A better understanding of the relationship between AAM, modifiable cardiometabolic risk factors, and subclinical atherosclerosis may contribute to improved primary prevention and cardiovascular disease treatment. We aimed to investigate the putative causal role of AAM on cIMT, and to identify and quantify the potentially mediatory effects of cardiometabolic risk factors underlying this relationship.

Methods and Results

We conducted linkage disequilibrium score regression analyses between our exposure of interest, AAM, our outcome of interest, cIMT and potential mediators of the AAM‐cIMT association to gauge cross‐trait genetic overlap. We considered as mediators the modifiable anthropometric risk factors body mass index (BMI), systolic blood pressure (SBP), lipid traits (total cholesterol, triglycerides, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol), and glycemic traits (fasting glucose). We then leveraged the paradigm of Mendelian randomization to infer causality between AAM and cIMT, and to identify whether cardiometabolic risk factors served as potential mediators of this effect. Our analyses showed that genetically predicted AAM was inversely associated with cIMT, BMI, SBP, and triglycerides, and positively associated with high‐density lipoprotein, low‐density lipoprotein, and total cholesterol. We showed that the effect of genetically predicted AAM on cIMT may be partially mediated through BMI (20.1% [95% CI, 1.4% to 38.9%]) and SBP (13.5% [95% CI, 0.5%–26.6%]). Our cluster‐specific Mendelian randomization revealed heterogeneous causal effect estimates of age at menarche on BMI and SBP.

Conclusions

We highlight supporting evidence for a potential causal association between earlier AAM and cIMT, and almost one third of the effect of AAM on cIMT may be mediated by BMI and SBP. Early intervention aimed at lowering BMI and hypertension may be beneficial in reducing the risk of developing subclinical atherosclerosis due to earlier age at menarche.
Allostatic Load/Chronic Stress and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Patients Diagnosed With Breast, Lung, or Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Stabellini Nickolas , Cullen Jennifer , Bittencourt Marcio S. , Moore Justin X. , Sutton Arnethea , Nain Priyanshu , Hamerschlak Nelson , Weintraub Neal L. , Dent Susan , Tsai Meng‐Han , Banerjee Amitava , Ghosh Arjun K , Sadler Diego , Coughlin Steven S. , Barac Ana , Shanahan John , Montero Alberto J. , Guha Avirup
Published: July 2024

Background

Cardiovascular disease and cancer share a common risk factor: chronic stress/allostatic load (AL). A 1‐point increase in AL is linked to up to a 30% higher risk of major cardiac events (MACE) in patients with prostate cancer. However, AL's role in MACE in breast cancer, lung cancer, or colorectal cancer remains unknown.

Methods and Results

Patients ≥18 years of age diagnosed with the mentioned 3 cancers of interest (2010–2019) and followed up at a large, hybrid academic‐community practice were included in this retrospective cohort study. AL was modeled as an ordinal measure (0–11). Adjusted Fine–Gray competing risks regressions estimated the impact of AL precancer diagnosis on 2‐year MACE (a composite of heart failure, ischemic stroke, acute coronary syndrome, and atrial fibrillation). The effect of AL changes over time on MACE was calculated via piecewise Cox regression (before, and 2 months, 6 months, and 1 year after cancer diagnosis). Among 16 467 patients, 50.5% had breast cancer, 27.9% had lung cancer, and 21.4% had colorectal cancer. A 1‐point elevation in AL before breast cancer diagnosis corresponded to a 10% heightened associated risk of MACE (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.10 [95% CI, 1.06–1.13]). Similar findings were noted in lung cancer (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.16 [95% CI, 1.12–1.20]) and colorectal cancer (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.13 [95% CI, 1.08–1.19]). When considering AL as a time‐varying exposure, the peak associated MACE risk occurred with a 1‐point AL rise between 6 and 12 months post‐ breast cancer, lung cancer, and colorectal cancer diagnosis.

Conclusions

AL warrants investigation as a potential marker in these patients to identify those at elevated cardiovascular risk and intervene accordingly.
T‐Wave Alternans Measured by 24‐Hour Ambulatory Recordings Rather Than Exercise Stress Tests as a Risk Stratification Marker in Patients With Long QT Syndrome
Authors: Yang Jing , Luo Jiangying , Li Kun , Li Dan , Lv Tingting , Liu Fulan , Liu Yuanwei , She Fei , He Rong , Zhang Ping
Published: July 2024

Background

Few small‐sample studies have quantified the T‐wave alternans (TWA) value by 24‐hour ambulatory recordings or exercise stress tests in patients with long QT syndrome (LQTS). The cutoff point of TWA ≥47 μV was based on patients with myocardial infarction. In our study, we aimed to (1) evaluate the association of TWA with life‐threatening arrhythmic events (LAEs); (2) compare the predictive model of LAEs according to the TWA value measured by 24‐hour ambulatory recordings and exercise stress tests; and (3) propose a cutoff point for the high risk of LAEs in patients with LQTS.

Methods and Results

The study cohort included 110 patients with LQTS referred to our hospital, and the primary outcome was LAEs. Thirty‐one patients with LQTS (31/110 [28.2%]) developed LAEs during the following 24 (12–47) months. Peak TWA value quantified from 12 leads by 24‐hour ambulatory recordings in patients with LQTS with LAEs (LQTS–LAEs group) was significantly higher than LQTS without LAEs (LQTS–non‐LAEs group) (64.0 [42.0–86.0] μV versus 43.0 [36.0–53.0] μV;
P
<0.01). There was no statistical difference in TWA value measured by exercise stress tests between the 2 groups (69.0 [54.5–127.5] μV versus 68.5 [53.3–99.8] μV;
P
=0.871). The new cutoff point of the peak TWA value measured by 24‐hour ambulatory recordings was 55.5 μV, with a sensitivity of 75.0% and a specificity of 78.6%. A univariate Cox regression analysis revealed that TWA value ≥55.5 μV was a strong predictor of LAEs (hazard ratio [HR], 4.5 [2.1–9.6];
P
<0.001]. A multivariate Cox regression analysis indicated that TWA value ≥55.5 μV remained significant (HR, 2.7 [1.1–6.8];
P
=0.034).

Conclusions

Peak TWA measured by 24‐hour ambulatory recordings was a more favorable risk stratification marker than exercise stress tests for patients with LQTS.
Pulmonary Hypertension Induced by Right Pulmonary Artery Occlusion: Hemodynamic Consequences of
Bmpr2
Mutation
Authors: Todesco Alban , Grynblat Julien , Akoumia Kouamé Kan Firmin , Bonnet Damien , Mendes‐Ferreira Pedro , Morisset Stéphane , Chemla Denis , Levy Marilyne , Méot Mathilde , Malekzadeh‐Milani Sophie‐Guiti , Tielemans Birger , Decante Benoit , Vastel‐Amzallag Carine , Habert Paul , Ghigna Maria‐Rosa , Humbert Marc , Montani David , Boulate David , Perros Frédéric
Published: July 2024

Background

The primary genetic risk factor for heritable pulmonary arterial hypertension is the presence of monoallelic mutations in the
BMPR2
gene. The incomplete penetrance of
BMPR2
mutations implies that additional triggers are necessary for pulmonary arterial hypertension occurrence. Pulmonary artery stenosis directly raises pulmonary artery pressure, and the redirection of blood flow to unobstructed arteries leads to endothelial dysfunction and vascular remodeling. We hypothesized that right pulmonary artery occlusion (RPAO) triggers pulmonary hypertension (PH) in rats with
Bmpr2
mutations.

Methods and Results

Male and female rats with a 71 bp monoallelic deletion in exon 1 of
Bmpr2
and their wild‐type siblings underwent acute and chronic RPAO. They were subjected to full high‐fidelity hemodynamic characterization. We also examined how chronic RPAO can mimic the pulmonary gene expression pattern associated with installed PH in unobstructed territories. RPAO induced precapillary PH in male and female rats, both acutely and chronically.
Bmpr2
mutant and male rats manifested more severe PH compared with their counterparts. Although wild‐type rats adapted to RPAO,
Bmpr2
mutant rats experienced heightened mortality. RPAO induced a decline in cardiac contractility index, particularly pronounced in male
Bmpr2
rats. Chronic RPAO resulted in elevated pulmonary IL‐6 (interleukin‐6) expression and decreased
Gdf2
expression (corrected
P
value<0.05 and log2 fold change>1). In this context, male rats expressed higher pulmonary levels of endothelin‐1 and IL‐6 than females.

Conclusions

Our novel 2‐hit rat model presents a promising avenue to explore the adaptation of the right ventricle and pulmonary vasculature to PH, shedding light on pertinent sex‐ and gene‐related effects.
Patient‐Specific Factors Predicting Renal Denervation Response in Patients With Hypertension: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Hu Xin‐Ru , Liao Guang‐Zhi , Wang Jun‐Wen , Ye Yu‐Yang , Chen Xue‐Feng , Bai Lin , Shi Fan‐Fan , Liu Kai , Peng Yong
Published: July 2024

Background

The accurate selection of patients likely to respond to renal denervation (RDN) is crucial for optimizing treatment outcomes in patients with hypertension. This systematic review was designed to evaluate patient‐specific factors predicting the RDN response.

Methods and Results

We focused on individuals with hypertension who underwent RDN. Patients were categorized based on their baseline characteristics. The primary outcome was blood pressure (BP) reduction after RDN. Both randomized controlled trials and nonrandomized studies were included. We assessed the risk of bias using corresponding tools and further employed the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach to assess the overall quality of evidence. A total of 50 studies were ultimately included in this systematic review, among which 17 studies were for meta‐analysis. Higher baseline heart rate and lower pulse wave velocity were shown to be associated with significant antihypertensive efficacy of RDN on 24‐hour systolic BP reduction (weighted mean difference, −4.05 [95% CI, −7.33 to −0.77]; weighted mean difference, −7.20 [95% CI, −9.79 to −4.62], respectively). In addition, based on qualitative analysis, higher baseline BP, orthostatic hypertension, impaired baroreflex sensitivity, and several biomarkers are also reported to be associated with significant BP reduction after RDN.

Conclusions

In patients with hypertension treated with the RDN, higher heart rate, and lower pulse wave velocity were associated with significant BP reduction after RDN. Other factors, including higher baseline BP, hypertensive patients with orthostatic hypertension, BP variability, impaired cardiac baroreflex sensitivity, and some biomarkers are also reported to be associated with a better BP response to RDN.
Cerebrovascular Disease Detected on Preprocedural Computed Tomography in Patients With Severe Aortic Stenosis Undergoing Aortic Valve Replacement
Authors: Yamamoto Ko , Ueda Hiroyuki , Uchiyama Daiji , Takeji Yasuaki , Taniguchi Tomohiko , Morimoto Takeshi , Tabata Hiroyuki , Ishizu Kenichi , Morofuji Toru , Hayashi Masaomi , Isotani Akihiro , Shirai Shinichi , Ohno Nobuhisa , Kakumoto Shinichi , Ando Kenji , Minatoya Kenji , Kimura Takeshi
Published: July 2024

Background

There is a scarcity of data on the prevalence and clinical impact of cerebrovascular disease detected on preprocedural computed tomography (CT) before aortic valve replacement (AVR) in patients with severe aortic stenosis.

Methods and Results

Among patients with severe aortic stenosis undergoing AVR, the authors compared clinical outcomes between patients with and without cerebrovascular disease detected on preprocedural CT, which was defined as chronic brain infarction or hemorrhage. The primary outcome measure in this study was a composite of all‐cause death or stroke. Among 567 study patients, 200 patients (35.3%) had cerebrovascular disease on preprocedural CT. Among 200 patients with cerebrovascular disease on preprocedural CT, only 28.5% of patients had a clinical history of symptomatic stroke. The cumulative 3‐year incidence of death or stroke was higher in patients with cerebrovascular disease on preprocedural CT than in those without cerebrovascular disease on preprocedural CT (40.7% versus 24.1%, log‐rank
P
<0.001). After adjusting for confounders, the higher risk of patients with cerebrovascular disease on preprocedural CT relative to those without remained significant for death or stroke (hazard ratio [HR], 1.42 [95% CI, 1.02–1.98];
P
=0.04). Among 200 patients with cerebrovascular disease on preprocedural CT, patients with prior symptomatic stroke compared with those without were not associated with higher adjusted risk for death or stroke (HR, 1.18 [95% CI, 0.72–1.94];
P
=0.52).

Conclusions

Among patients with severe aortic stenosis undergoing AVR, a substantial proportion had cerebrovascular disease on preprocedural CT, with a clinical history of symptomatic stroke in one‐fourth of patients. Regardless of history of symptomatic stroke, patients with cerebrovascular disease on preprocedural CT had worse clinical outcomes compared with those without cerebrovascular disease on preprocedural CT.
Taxonomic, nomenclatural, and distribution notes on Thymus dreatensis (Nepetoideae, Lamiaceae) and related taxa endemic to North Africa
Authors: MOKNI RIDHA EL , DOMINA GIANNIANTONIO
Published: July 2024

Thymus dreatensis (Lamiaceae), a rare species, was considered to be strictly endemic to Algeria, until it was recently discovered on the eastern Kroumirian mountains of Tunisia. The species is one of the very rare and few taxa of Thymus sect. Serpyllum subsect. Insulares and is characterized mainly by its small habit with reptant stems, broadly ovate to elliptical, entire leaf blade, and a capitate to oblong inflorescence with entire bracts, which are different from the leaves. The name is here lectotypified with a specimen housed in the Montpellier University Herbarium. The population is here reported for the first time as a new floristic record for Tunisia. Moreover, geographical distribution and habitat of T. dreatensis is given. In addition, the nomenclature of three species of Thymus that are morphologically close to T. dreatensis and endemic to North Africa, is discussed: T. atlanticus is lectotypified with a specimen housed in Herb. K; T. guyonii is neotypified with a specimen housed in Herb. P; T. pallescens is lectotypified with the same detailed plate on which the name was published.
Redescription of Manayunkia caspica Annenkova, 1929 and M. danubialis Băcescu, 1944 n. comb. (Fabriciidae, Sabellida, Polychaeta)
Authors: BICK ANDREAS , OBERRISSER PHILIPP , BASTROP RALF
Published: July 2024

The spread of the subspecies M. caspica danubialis Băcescu, 1944, which has been found in the Danube since 1944, into the upper section of the Danube as far as Austria was the reason for describing the characters of this species and comparing it with the nominotypical subspecies M. caspica caspica Annenkova, 1929, which lives in the Caspian Sea. Both subspecies are similar in the most important diagnostic characters, such as the number of branches of the radioles and the presence and number of pseudospatulate chaetae on thoracic chaetigers. However, they differ in other, less conspicuous characters, such as the number of thoracic uncini and the length of chaetigers. But these characters vary depending on the size of the specimens. Both subspecies inhabit completely different habitats. Based on the ecological species concept, the spatially and ecologically separated populations are regarded as distinct species, M. caspica, and M. danubialis n. comb. The occurrence of transitional uncini in both species and the presence of a brood chamber in the females of M. caspica are described for the first time. The structure of the radiolar crown is also described for both species. A molecular barcode for M. danubialis n. comb., a 654 base pair fragment of cytochrome c oxidase I is presented, allowing a fast and simple identification of this species by using a robust PCR/sequencing approach.
Qualitative Assessment of Water Sources in Pench Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra
Authors: Khadse Gajanan , Narnaware Sandip
Published: July 2024

To ascertain the quality of water used for drinking purpose, by the consumers and wildlife, water quality monitoring of the groundwater and surface water sources was conducted in Pench Tiger Reserve area in Maharashtra. The fecal streptococci (FS) and fecal coliforms (FC) ranged from 0-5 CFU/100ml and 0-62 CFU/100ml respectively. The bacterial contamination in groundwater may be because of improper source protection and possibility of enroute contamination. Geogenic background has major impact on groundwater quality in Pench with gneisses and basaltic type of formation which reflect on the physicochemical water quality parameters. Water quality parameters like turbidity, fluoride, iron and bacterial counts are above the permissible limit in some water sources making the water unsuitable for drinking purpose. The high turbidity in the groundwater samples is attributed to the presence of iron precipitates. Study area is covered with red ferruginous soils which are rich in iron and contributes to iron content in groundwater. Appropriate treatment is required to reduce down the iron and fluoride concentrations followed by disinfection so that the water quality parameters fulfill BIS guidelines for potability of water. The correlation and regression analysis among different water quality parameters helps in establishing relationships among water quality parameters drawing inferences about them. Water quality monitoring at regular interval with suitable treatment measures is very much essential to provide safe drinking water to the consumers.
Investigation of BRAF V600E Mutation in Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Mahood Wafaa , Hassoon Athraa , Obaidy Shaimaa , Ahmed Lenha , Musawi Ibtisam
Published: July 2024

The B-Raf is the essential protein in signal pathways inside cells which is affected by cell growth direction. The B-Raf protein encoded by the BRAF gene that is located at chromosome 7, BRAF gene is also pointed out as proto-oncogene. This study aimed to detect the substitution at codon 600 causing a change of valine to glutamic acid (V600E) mutation in Iraqi females to assist its role in initiating breast cancer. Sixty biopsies tissue from breast cancer Iraqi women and 20 women with benign lesions were enrolled in this study. DNA was extracted from breast cancer biopsies samples. PCR and DNA Sequencing techniques were used to screen the BRAF V600E gene mutation as it is an essential event in the initiation of cancer. The results revealed that none Iraqi breast cancer women had BRAF V600E mutation, The annotated BRAF gene has been deposited in DDBJ/GenBank under the accession number LC547435. In conclusion: The present data indicate no BRAF V600E mutation in Iraqi breast cancer females and may not possess a role in breast cancer initiation. The current results may be refer to ineffectiveness of Vemurafenib and Encorafenib therapies that specific for patients with the BRAF V600 mutation. Other studies with large numbers of patients are needed to confirm the result of this study, as the high prevalence of breast cancer among Iraqi women.