bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract P409: Cardiovascular Health Assessment and Intervention by AHA Pediatric Risk Category in Youth with Hypertension Disorders: a SUPERHERO Analysis
Authors: Vincent Carol , Harry Giya , Murphy Margaret , Onugha Elizabeth , South Andrew
Published: October 2024

Background:
Early intervention for modifiable cardiovascular (CV) health factors may decrease incidence of CV disease later in life, though whether youth at higher risk are more likely to have CV assessment and intervention is unknown. Our objective was to determine CV health initial assessment and intervention including echocardiogram (ECHO) order, anti-hypertensive medication prescription, and dietician referral by participant risk category from the 2019 American Heart Association (AHA) CV Risk Reduction in High-Risk Pediatric Patients scientific statement in a large cohort of youth with hypertension (HTN) disorders.

Methods:
Cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from the SUPERHERO Registry, a multisite retrospective cohort of youth referred for HTN disorders. Inclusion criteria were age <19 years and HTN disorder identified by ICD-10 codes from 1/1/2015–12/31/2023 at index visit to a subspecialty clinic. Exclusion criteria were kidney replacement therapy by dialysis or transplant or pregnancy by ICD-10 codes. Exposure was AHA Pediatric Risk Category (High, Moderate, At-risk). We used clinic BP by U.S. guidelines, clinic BMI percentile to define obesity, and ICD-10 codes to define other risk category medical diagnoses. Outcomes were ECHO order, anti-hypertensive medication prescription, and dietician referral. We used unadjusted generalized linear models.

Results:
Of 9356 participants, 1034 (11.1%), 6100 (65.2%), and 634 (6.8%) participants were categorized as High, Moderate, and At-risk groups. Overall, 3053 (32.6%) of participants had an ECHO order, 943 (16.4%) had anti-hypertensive medication prescribed, and 661 (7.1%) had a dietician referral. With At-risk group as reference, participants in High or Moderate risk groups were more likely to have an anti-hypertensive medication prescription (RR 3.12; 95% CL 2.23 to 4.36, RR 1.38; 95% CL 1.02 to 1.85). Participants in the Moderate risk group were more likely to have an ECHO order (RR 1.24; 95% CL 1.06 to 1.44). No difference between risk groups was seen for dietician referral.

Conclusions:
Among a large cohort of youth with HTN disorders, we found that higher risk groups were more likely to have an anti-hypertensive medication prescribed compared to lower risk group. The overall proportion of participants with medication prescriptions, ECHO orders, or dietician referrals were low. Next steps include investigating the association of risk category with target organ injury.
Abstract P410: Association Between Maternal Magnesium and Offspring Blood Pressure at 4 Years of Age: A Birth Cohort Study
Authors: Xu Caifang , Jiang Shiwei , Wang Jian , Wang Qianchuo , WANG Jian , Sun Kun
Published: October 2024

Background:
The potential influence of maternal magnesium levels during gestation on offspring's blood pressure remains largely unexplored.

Objective：
We aim to investigate the association of maternal magnesium concentrations during early pregnancy and child’s blood pressure at four years of age.

Methods:
Using data from the Shanghai Birth Cohort, this study analyzed the data from 1129 mother-child pairs.

Results:
Maternal blood magnesium concentrations were inversely associated with blood pressure of offspring at 4 years of age. Each 1mmol/L increment in maternal magnesium was correlation with 3.03 mmHg (95% CI -4.77 to -1.29,
P
=0.001) decrease of systolic blood pressure and 1.72 mmHg (95% CI -3.22 to -0.23,
P
=0.024) decrease of diastolic blood pressure in children after adjusting for covariates. Moreover, maternal magnesium concentrations were associated with incident high blood pressure (OR = 0.40, 95% CI, 0.17 to 0.95,
P
=0.037) of offspring. Exploratory maternal pre-pregnancy body mass index stratified analyses found that the negative regression coefficient (β) of maternal magnesium and child blood pressure was greater in the overweight/obese group than in normal weight group or underweight group (
P
for systolic blood pressure difference 0.014,
P
for diastolic blood pressure difference 0.019).

Conclusions:
Our data suggest higher maternal magnesium concentrations are associated with lower blood pressure levels and reduced risk of high blood pressure in children. Our findings highlight the importance of maternal Mg levels during pregnancy, especially for the mothers who are overweight or obese.
Abstract P421: Differential Osmolyte Profiles in Hypertensive and Normotensive Rats.
Authors: Ufnal Marcin , Tomasova Lenka , Szudzik Mateusz , Maksymiuk Klaudia
Published: October 2024

Hypertension is known to be associated with water-electrolyte balance disturbances that lead to changes in osmotic pressure. Osmolytes are small organic molecules essential for cellular adaptation to changes in osmotic pressure.

This study investigates the levels of osmolytes in serum and tissues using two well-established rat models of hypertension: spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) and Wistar-Kyoto rats with angiotensin II-induced hypertension (WKY-ANG).

Experiments were conducted on male Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats, SHRs, and WKY-ANG rats. Blood and tissue samples were collected from all groups for liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry (LC-MS) analysis of selected osmolytes.

Anesthetized SHR and WKY-ANG rats displayed significantly elevated mean arterial blood pressures compared to WKY rats (118.4±1.3, 110.2±0.9, and 76.5±1.2 mmHg, respectively). The serum and tissue levels of sarcosine were significantly decreased in SHRs compared to WKY rats (1.90±0.21 vs. 3.80±0.80 for serum, 55.55±9.79 vs 92.37±10.57 for liver, 6.06±0.78 vs. 10.55±1.19 for renal cortex, 9.14±0.45 vs.13.83±1.14 for renal medulla, 11.59±1.17 vs. 22.34±3.11 for lungs, 1.80±0.14 vs. 3.30±0.39 for heart, respectively). Reduced levels of beta-alanine were observed only in the serum of SHRs compared to WKY and WKY-ANG rats (6.48±0.93 vs. 59.43±9.47, 41.32±3.13 respectively). Additionally, higher levels of L-alanine were noted in the renal cortex and medulla of WKY than in SHRs and WKY-ANG rats (19685±592.3 vs. 14510±456.8, 14289±719.4 for cortex and 14043±560.3 vs. 11520±206.8, 10651±292.4 for medulla, respectively). Conversely, SHR rats exhibited significantly higher levels of serum glycerophosphocholine (GPC) than WKY-ANG rats (38.21±10.02 vs. 12.47±2.25). Simultaneously, lower levels of betaine were observed in the lungs of SHR rats when compared to WKY and WKY-ANG rats (1 and 351.20±36.02, 607.10±64.20, 606.70±55.88 for lungs respectively). All results are indicated in μmol/L and means±SE.

In conclusion significant alterations in osmolyte concentrations are evident in hypertensive rats. These findings suggest that hypertension may be associated with disruptions in osmolyte balance. Further studies are needed to assess the potential clinical significance of osmolyte disturbances in hypertension.
Abstract P433: Impaired Renin Activity in a Bicistronic

Ren1
c
-T2A-tdTomato

Reporter Mouse
Authors: Medrano Silvia , Almeida Lucas , Sequeira Maria Luisa , Gomez Roberto
Published: October 2024

The study of renin cell identity and function often requires the isolation of this rare cell type –0.01% of the kidney cells. Multicistronic constructs are commonly used to express reporter genes in mice. They consist of two or more genes linked by 2A peptide sequences, which produce separate proteins through a ribosomal skipping mechanism. Here, we report on the generation of a mouse model to label renin-expressing cells with a bright fluorescent reporter for the tracking and isolation of renin cells.

Ren1
ctdTomato

mice were generated by inserting a bicistronic
T2A-tdTomato
knock-in cassette upstream of the TGA stop codon of the

Ren1
c

gene.

Kidneys from adult heterozygous (het)

Ren1
ctdTomat
o

mice showed tdTomato signal confined to the JG area under basal conditions, and extending along the afferent arterioles and in the intraglomerular mesangium upon treatment with captopril + low-salt diet to induce the endocrine transformation of renin cells. Unexpectedly, homozygous (homo) mice exhibited increased tdTomato signal that extended in the afferent arterioles and the mesangium even under normal physiological conditions, and progressive thickening of the kidney arterioles with age. Despite reduced Renin immunostaining in the renal cortex, homo mice exhibited significantly higher kidney
Ren1
mRNA (7.9 ± 1.2
vs
1.2 ± 0.6,
p<
0.0001) and circulating Renin levels (121.7 ± 44.0
vs
66.7 ± 29.4 ng/ml,
p<
0.003) when compared to het controls. Moreover, homo mice showed significantly lower blood pressure measured under anesthesia (62.3 ± 5.9
vs
90.0 ± 5.7 mmHg,
p<
0.0001), and Ang I plasma levels (159.3 ± 34.8
vs
500.0 ± 184.1 pmol/L,
p<
0.05), indicating compromised Renin activity. The concentric arteriolar hypertrophy phenotype observed in these mice is identical to that described when RAS is genetically or pharmacologically inhibited, including the presence of mutations in the renin gene. Unlike mice with global deletion of renin, these animals did not require neonatal saline injections to survive and did not develop other kidney abnormalities, indicating that the bicistronic approach rendered a renin hypomorphic mouse.

Ren1
ctdTomato

mice constitute an excellent model for the labeling of renin-expressing cells and for the study of the mechanisms involved in the development of concentric vascular hypertrophy under RAS inhibition. In addition, this model may provide a better understanding of factors controlling renin protein folding, stability, packaging, and release.
Abstract P438: Is aprocitentan also sympatholytic in patients with resistant hypertension?
Authors: Clozel Martine , Sassi-Sayadi Mouna , Dreier Roland
Published: October 2024

Background:
Aprocitentan is an endothelin ET
A
/ET
B
receptor antagonist (ERA) approved for the treatment of hypertension not adequately controlled on other drugs. Resistant hypertension is associated with sympathetic activation. The insufficient blood pressure (BP) lowering of many patients at night (non-dipping) and an often-increased heart rate are signs of sympathetic activation.

Because ET
A
and ET
B
receptors participate in adrenaline and noradrenaline release and dual ERAs have been shown to decrease catecholamines, we hypothesized that aprocitentan might, among the various effects of dual blockade, behave as a sympathetic inhibitor. To assess this hypothesis, we investigated the effect of aprocitentan on nighttime BP and heart rate, both influenced by the sympathetic system.

Methods:
In the PRECISION study, where enrolled subjects were still hypertensive despite being on a standard fixed-dose background combination therapy composed of amlodipine, valsartan and hydrochlorothiazide, 730 patients were randomized to receive aprocitentan 12.5 mg, 25 mg or placebo for the first 4 weeks (double-blind placebo-controlled phase). 24-hour ambulatory BP monitoring (ABPM) was recorded in all randomized patients at baseline and Week 4.

Results:
At baseline, 60% of patients were non-dippers at night
.
Among those, 25%, 39% and 37% were reverted to dippers in the placebo, aprocitentan 12.5 and 25 mg groups, respectively, at Week 4. Accordingly, aprocitentan 12.5 mg and 25 mg decreased nighttime BP by -8.1 and -11 mmHg, respectively, vs -2.6 mmHg on placebo at Week 4. This reduction in nighttime BP by aprocitentan was larger than the reduction in daytime BP (-6.2 and -7.8 mmHg decrease at 12.5 and 25 mg, respectively, vs -2.3 mmHg on placebo).

At baseline, mean heart rate, measured by office BP measurement at trough, was 74 beats/min. At Week 4, aprocitentan 12.5 mg and 25 mg, despite the respective 15.3 and 15.5 mmHg reduction of office BP from baseline, did not increase heart rate (-3.3 and -2.6 beats/min at 12.5 and 25 mg, respectively, versus -2.7 beats/min on placebo).

Conclusion:
We conclude that, by blocking ET
A
and ET
B
receptors, aprocitentan may have downstream sympatholytic effects, which may help its efficacy on nighttime BP – a prognostic factor for CV events in hypertension – and allow marked BP lowering without any reactive tachycardia.
Abstract P442: Impact of arterial stiffness on the blood pressure lowering effect of the dual endothelin antagonist aprocitentan in patients with resistant hypertension
Authors: Schlaich Markus , Bakris George , Flack John , Danaietash Parisa , Sassi-Sayadi Mouna , Narkiewicz Krzysztof , Wang Jiguang , Weber Michael
Published: October 2024

Background:
The phase-3 PRECISION study demonstrated the efficacy of aprocitentan to lower both office and ambulatory blood pressure (BP) in patients with resistant hypertension. Increased arterial stiffness has been associated with less favorable responses to pharmacologic BP lowering therapies. In this post-hoc analysis, we investigated the impact of arterial stiffness, assessed by the ambulatory arterial stiffness index (AASI), on the BP lowering effect of aprocitentan.

Methods:
The study included a 4-week double blind period (aprocitentan 12.5 mg, 25 mg, or placebo) and a 32-week single blind period (aprocitentan 25 mg). A total of 730 patients with resistant hypertension were randomized and 633 had available ambulatory BP monitoring (ABPM) results at baseline. The AASI was calculated from ABPM data as 1 minus the regression slope of diastolic on systolic BP. The patient population was dichotomized into two groups according to the baseline median AASI.

Results:
Patients with higher baseline AASI (≥0.54) tended to be older (63±11 versus 60±10) and to have a higher 24-hour ambulatory systolic BP (140±14 versus 135±14 mmHg) than patients with lower AASI (<0.54). These patients with higher baseline AASI were also more likely to have chronic kidney disease stage 3-4 corresponding to an estimated glomerular filtration rate in the 15 to 60 mL/min/1.73 m
2
range (27% versus 18%).

The BP lowering effect of aprocitentan at Week 4 was similar for both the patients with stiffer vasculature who have a higher baseline AASI (≥0.54) and for those with a lower AASI (<0.54) (Table 1). No relevant change in AASI was reported with aprocitentan treatment at Week 4 (end of the double-blind period) or Week 36 (end of the single-blind period).

Conclusion:
Aprocitentan is an effective BP lowering therapy across the arterial stiffness continuum observed in patients with resistant hypertension. Longer observation times are needed to fully assess the impact of treatment on this structural and functional parameter.
Abstract P443: Role of miRNA-99a, endothelial mineralocorticoid receptor and CD36 in arterial stiffening
Authors: Chen Dongqing , Igbekele Aderonke , Jia Guanghong
Published: October 2024

The surge in overweight and obesity rates has triggered a rise in metabolic syndrome cases and related cardiovascular diseases, including vascular stiffness and hypertension. We recently found that consumption of a high-fat/high-fructose Western diet (WD) increases the expression and activation of endothelial cell (EC) mineralocorticoid receptor (ECMR), which is associated with arterial oxidative stress, inflammation, remodeling, and vascular stiffening. However, the precise mechanisms by which enhanced activation of ECMR induces vascular stiffening remain to be elucidated. We hypothesize that miR-99a regulates the activated ECMR-induced upregulation of ECCD36 expression, which promotes vascular endothelial dysfunction and aortic stiffness. First, 16 weeks of WD inhibited miR-99a in the aorta which was prevented by additional spironolactone treatment. With bioinformatics, we predicted that miR-99a would target CD36 expression. To test our hypothesis that miR-99a, regulated by ECMR activation, may also directly affect CD36 mRNA expression in cultured ECs, we used miR-99a mimic or inhibitor to transfect ECs with or without palmitic acid treatment. miR-99a mimic also prevented palmitic acid-induced EC CD36 expression and lipid droplet formation. In vivo gene deletion of ECCD36 blunted WD-induced increases in pulse pressure and reduced vascular activity as well as aortic remodeling. These data indicate that the interaction of endothelial-specific ECMR/miRNA/ECCD36 mediates vascular endothelium dysfunction and prompts arterial stiffness.
Abstract P454: Screening of risk genes for carotid vulnerable plaque based on transcriptomics and experimental verification
Authors: Wang Kuangyi , Zhang Junyi , Jiang Yufeng , Zhou Yafeng
Published: October 2024

Purpose and background:
This study aims to conduct an in-depth analysis of human carotid atherosclerotic plaques using transcriptomic data to elucidate the relationship between hypoxia-related genes and the stability of carotid artery plaques and explore their connection with immune infiltration.

Methods:
Four GEO datasets (GSE21545, GSE24495, GSE159677, and GSE189300) were used. Initially, gene expression data from carotid artery plaque samples in GSE21545 and GSE24495 were analyzed. Hypoxia-related gene sets were obtained from MSigDB, and the "HALLMARK_HYPOXIA" gene set was explicitly selected. GSEA software was used for ultimately selecting CDKN1C and HAS1 as characteristic genes. Subsequently, sample clustering analysis was conducted to determin the optimal number of clusters. Gene set enrichment and differential analysis were performed. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blotting experiments were conducted for preliminary validation of CDKN1C and HAS1 expression levels in ApoE knockout mice at 16 and 6 weeks. Subsequently, single-cell data from GSE159677 were processed to determine the differential localization of CDKN1C in carotid atherosclerotic plaques, with functional analysis conducted using GSE189300.

Results:
CDKN1C and HAS1 genes were found to exhibit differential expression in plaques and were correlated with hypoxia and immune scores. Clustering analysis revealed two main clusters, with patients in cluster A showing a higher risk of adverse events and a stronger association with immunity. Genes with a positive effect on atherosclerosis were highly expressed in poorer prognosis cluster A. Validation dataset GSE24495 also confirmed the grouping ability of CDKN1C and HAS1 genes, showing enrichment in atherosclerosis-related pathways. RT-qPCR and protein immunoblotting experiments demonstrated no significant differences in HAS1 expression levels, while CDKN1C showed lower protein expression in 16-week ApoE knockout mice compared to 6 weeks. Single-cell data from GSE159677 localized differential expression of CDKN1C in plaque cells. Finally, immunofluorescence validation confirmed the coexistence of CDKN1C and vascular smooth muscle cells.

Conclusion:
This study comprehensively analyzed transcriptomics data from carotid atherosclerotic plaques, revealing the significant roles of CDKN1C and HAS1 genes. Immunofluorescence validation further supported the crucial role of these genes in carotid atherosclerosis.
Abstract P455: Integrins play a role in stress relaxation of perivascular adipose tissue
Authors: Watts Stephanie , Thompson Janice , Bhattacharya Sudin , Panda Vishal , Terrian Leah , Contreras Andres , Nault Rance
Published: October 2024

Perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) is well known for being anti-contractile (reducing potency, maximum) in healthy tissues. We discovered a new function of PVAT, the ability to stress relax in response to a stretch. This is of note because stress relaxation has been attributed largely to smooth muscle, of which PVAT has none that is organized in a functional layer. Here we test the hypothesis that stress relaxation depends on the interactions of the cell membrane delimited heterodimer integrins with collagen. Our model is the thoracic aorta of the male Dahl SS rat on a normal diet. The PVAT and aorta were physically separated for most assays. Results from snRNA seq in PVAT, histochemistry and isometric contractility were used. Collagen was evident in PVAT as stained by Masson Trichrome. snRNA seq of whole PVAT determined expression of many collagen isoforms and integrins, with mRNA for both the
α1
and
β1
integrin being most highly expressed. Isolated aortic rings and separated PVAT were challenged with 2 or 4 grams of passive tension. Pharmacological inhibition of integrin/collagen interaction was effected by the specific
α1β1
distintegrin obtustatin (5 uM) or general inhibitor RGD peptide (1 mM). RGD peptide but not obtustatin reduced the ability of the isolated PVAT ring to maintain applied tone at both the 2 and 4 gram challenge (~15% gain in relaxation/loss of tone,
figure
). By contrast, stress relaxation in the aorta itself was not reduced by either inhibitor. In addition to a1b1 and collagen interaction, cell-cell communication inference identified integrins av and a5, two major RGD motif containing isoforms, as potential partners of collagens with fibroblast-like cells most likely involved. Collectively, these findings validate that stress relaxation can occur in a non-smooth muscle tissue, doing so at least in part through integrin-collagen interactions that may not include
α1β1
heterodimers. The importance of this lies in considering PVAT as a vascular layer that possesses mechanical functions.
Attempting to Break Binary Oppositions of East and West: Hanan Al-Shaykh’s “I Sweep the Sun off Rooftops”
Authors: Balaa Luma
Published: October 2024

Hanan Al-Shaykh’s, “I Sweep the Sun off Rooftops”, calls for cross-cultural dialogue between different cultures. The text explores the cultural tensions that shape an individual’s identity within the postcolonial context. This article examines an encounter in the text between the Moroccan protagonist and her English boyfriend, his sister and his friends in London. Engaging in dialogue between multiple postcolonial theories such as Frantz Fanon’s concept of “absolute depersonalization”, Edward Said’s Orientalism and “contrapuntal consciousness” – Mary Louise Pratt’s theory of transculturation and Homi Bhabha’s notion of “hybridity”, this research studies how the processes of transculturation and hybridity can act to transcend cultural clashes and East–West divisions. The author resorts to using colonial tropes or Orientalist stereotypes to eventually subvert these problems but, at times, this causes ambiguity and contradictions in her text. The female protagonist follows a non-linear trajectory, experiencing various stages before she reaches a hybrid state; these stages involve a fascination with London, cultural clashes, self-assertion and integration, incorporating cultural crossing and hybridity. The female protagonist slips back and forth from one stage to another with all her experiences contributing towards the attainment of cultural dialogue.
Two new species of the genus Homogryllacris (Orthoptera: Gryllacrididae) with the first description of the female of Homogryllacris foveolis Zhang, Pang & Bian, 2023 from China
Authors: DUAN YANHAO , SU JIE , CAI FANDUO , SHI FUMING
Published: October 2024

In the paper, two new species of the genus Homogryllacris Liu, 2007 are described from China, i.e. Homogryllacris breviprocera Duan, Su & Shi sp. nov. and Homogryllacris xizangensis Duan, Su & Shi sp. nov. The female of Homogryllacris foveolis Zhang, Pang & Bian, 2023 is described for the first time. In addition, images illustrating the morphology of the two new species and the female of H. foveolis Zhang, Pang & Bian, 2023 are provided.
A new species of the thorid shrimp genus Lebbeus White, 1847 (Decapoda: Caridea) from the Amami Rift hydrothermal vent field in the Ryukyu region, Japan
Authors: KOMAI TOMOYUKI , CHEN CHONG
Published: October 2024

A new species of the thorid shrimp genus Lebbeus White, 1847, is described and illustrated on the basis of two specimens collected from the recently discovered Amami Rift hot vent field in the Ryukyu region in southwestern Japan, at a depth of 628 m. Lebbeus parvirostris sp. nov. is morphologically similar to L. microceros (Krøyer, 1841), L. mundus Jensen, 2006, L. saldanhae (Barnard, 1947), L. schrencki (Bražnikov, 1907), L. spongiaris Komai, 2001, and L. tosaensis Hanamura & Abe, 2003, but differs from all of them in the lack of a pterygostomial tooth on the carapace in the female. Other diagnostic characters useful in differentiating the new species from the aforementioned close relatives are also discussed. Genetic analyses using sequences of two mitochondrial markers, including cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and 16S rRNA, are also presented to provide preliminary support for the status of the new species. Lebbeus parvirostris sp. nov. is the second representative of Lebbeus known from active hydrothermal vents in the Ryukyu region.
Three new species of parasitoid wasps of the genus Mnioes Townes, 1946 (Ichneumonidae: Banchinae) in a humid forest in Peru
Authors: BALLON-ESTACIO RICARDO , ALVARADO MABEL
Published: October 2024

Mnioes is a predominantly Neotropical genus of Banchinae (Ichneumonidae), currently including 26 species. Three new species of Mnioes are described, found in a humid montane forest in southern Peru, M. chunka sp. nov, M. chusaq sp. nov. and M. isqun sp. nov, and the male of M. huk Alvarado 2020 is also described. DNA barcoding for all the species treated here is included and provides information to match females with males, especially for M. chunka sp. nov., M. chusaq sp. nov., and M. soqta Alvarado 2020 where females are similar to each other and occur in sympatry. Additionally, an updated key to the Peruvian species is provided.
Oral Microbiota Development in the First 60 Months: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Yama K. , Morishima S. , Tsutsumi K. , Jo R. , Aita Y. , Inokuchi T. , Okuda T. , Watai D. , Ohara K. , Maruyama M. , Chikazawa T. , Iwamoto T. , Kakizawa Y. , Oniki T.
Published: October 2024

Childhood is considered crucial in the establishment of future oral microbiota. However, the precise period of oral microbiota development remains unclear. This study aimed to identify the progression of oral microbiota formation in children. We longitudinally investigated the salivary microbiota of 54 children across 13 time points from 1 wk to 60 mo (5 y) old and their parents at 2 time points as a representative sample of the adult microbiota. Using next-generation sequencing, we obtained 10,000 gene sequences of the 16s rRNA V1-V2 region for each sample. The detection rate in children of 110 operational taxonomic units commonly detected in more than 85% of mothers and fathers, defined as the main constituent bacteria, was 25% at 1 wk old, increased to 80% between 6 and 18 mo old, and reached approximately 90% by 36 mo old. Early main constituent bacteria detected at 1 wk old were limited to Streptococcus, Rothia, and Gemella. At 6 to 18 mo old, the detection rates of various main constituent bacteria, including Neisseria, Haemophilus, and Fusobacterium, increased. UniFrac distance analysis showed that the oral microbiota of children approached that of adults at 6 to 18 mo old. In the weighted UniFrac distance index, unlike the unweighted index, there were no significant changes in children between 36 and 60 mo old from adults, and microbiota formation at 60 mo old was sufficiently advanced to be included within the range of adult individual differences. Our findings suggest that the initial 36 mo, particularly the period from 6 to 18 mo old, consists of a time window for oral microbiota maturation. In addition, the development of microbiota during this period may be critical for future oral disease prevention.
It’s not just about jobs: The significance of employment quality for participation in political violence and protests in selected Arab Mediterranean countries
Authors: Paasonen Kari
Published: October 2024

It is often proposed that the young unemployed are more likely to engage in political violence, conflicts, and protests. One problem in studying the unemployed – especially in the Global South – are the blurred lines between the unemployed, the employed, and those working in the informal sector. Further, the employed are a heterogeneous group so employment quality might also play an important role. To tackle these issues, this study uses a new quantitative dataset, which covers youth in five Middle Eastern and North African countries: Algeria, Egypt, Lebanon, Morocco, and Tunisia. These data provide considerably more fine-grained information about the employment situations of the respondents than the datasets previously used. The study investigates separately two forms of political participation: in political violence and in demonstrations. The regression analyses show that there is no clear difference between the young unemployed and the young employed in their likelihood to participate in the studied political activities. However, some features related to employment matter. Those whose employment status is ambiguous are substantially more likely to participate in demonstrations and political violence than the employed. Among those who work, those who are dissatisfied with their work and those who work fewer hours participate more often in these activities. Income on its own does not seem to have an effect; however, those who have more assets are more likely to participate, and compared to those who feel themselves middle income, those feeling rich or poor are more likely to engage in political violence and demonstrations. The results suggest that instead of thinking in terms of a dichotomy of the employed and unemployed, more emphasis should be placed on understanding the variety of employment situations and employment quality and their impact on political instability.
Prediction of Social Engagement in Long-Term Care Homes by Sex: A Population-Based Analysis Using Machine Learning
Authors: Abedi Ali , Khan Shehroz S. , Iaboni Andrea , Bronskill Susan E. , Bethell Jennifer
Published: October 2024

The objective of this study was to use population-based clinical assessment data to build and evaluate machine-learning models for predicting social engagement among female and male residents of long-term care (LTC) homes. Routine clinical assessments from 203,970 unique residents in 647 LTC homes in Ontario, Canada, collected between April 1, 2010, and March 31, 2020, were used to build predictive models for the Index of Social Engagement (ISE) using a data-driven machine-learning approach. General and sex-specific models were built to predict the ISE. The models showed a moderate prediction ability, with random forest emerging as the optimal model. Mean absolute errors were 0.71 and 0.73 in females and males, respectively, using general models and 0.69 and 0.73 using sex-specific models. Variables most highly correlated with the ISE, including activity pursuits, cognition, and physical health and functioning, differed little by sex. Factors associated with social engagement were similar in female and male residents.
Progressive Tension Sutures in Fleur de Lis Abdominoplasty: A Case Report
Authors: Ray Andrew , Baldwin Leah , Zaremba Shelby
Published: October 2024

Introduction:

As the field of cosmetic and plastic surgery progresses patient safety and comfort remain paramount. Over the past 30 years, multiple studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of progressive tension sutures (PTS) in drainless abdominoplasties and case series have been published evaluating the outcomes of PTS/drainless abdominoplasties in high-volume liposuction cases (liposuction with over 3 L of aspirate). To date, there have been no reports in the literature regarding PTS usage in Fleur de Lis (FDL)-type abdominoplasties.

Materials/Methods:

We describe our experience using PTS in a patient with a drainless FDL abdominoplasty and several patients in which PTS was used to limit the number of drains needed in an FDL abdominoplasty.

Results:

In our follow-up with the patient, she had no adverse events or seroma formation.

Discussion/conclusion:

The cases documented here suggest that FDL abdominoplasty can be performed without the need for drains or with minimal drains.
A Multilevel, Emergent Journey to Unpack Team Process Dynamics
Authors: Kozlowski Steve W. J.
Published: October 2024

In this essay, I reflect on my journey as a scientist endeavoring to unpack team processes and effectiveness, offering observations, learning points, and insights I gained along the way. I have organized my journey into three phases; (1) developing multilevel theory as a set of meta-theoretical principles that provide a foundation for theory and research on team processes and effectiveness, (2) substantive theory and research focused on learning, regulation processes, development, adaptation and team leadership, and (3) process theorizing, team dynamics, and computational theorizing and modeling. I close with some recommendations for advancing the science of team process dynamics and effectiveness.
“Accepting the Poem of Destiny”: Identity Reconstruction in a Chinese Online Depression Community
Authors: Li Xin , Xu Kaibin
Published: October 2024

As online health communities become important platforms for people with depression to express themselves, digital narratives provide a lens for understanding their identity work. Drawing on the communication theory of identity (CTI), this article explored the members’ identity reconstruction by analyzing their narratives posted in a Chinese online depression community. The four levels of identities constructed by the members include “laggard” and “pioneer” at the personal layer, “idler” and “fighter” at the enacted level, “stress-maker” and “escaper” at the relational layer, and support providers and receivers at the communal layer. These identities at different levels usually interact in the narratives, showing that identity gaps exist among the members. The study shows that the members’ autobiographical accounts of depression entail multiplicities and ambivalences, denying the dominant and stigmatizing representation of it by common sense and the media as a reductionist downward and one-way experience that is valueless and offers no possibility for personal growth. The findings regarding the communal level of identity show that narratives can help the narrators to create bonds of solidarity of an experience that is often marginalized.
Update stiffness matrix using the displacement output feedback technique
Authors: Duan Wenting , Yuan Yongxin
Published: October 2024

The analytical matrices of a finite element model are generally symmetric and positive definite (semidefinite). How to ensure that the coefficient matrices of the adjusted model have such properties is an important yet challenging task in the process of model updating. In this paper, we put forward a direct method to update the stiffness matrix of the undamped structural systems by means of the displacement output feedback technique. Utilizing the QR-decomposition and the singular value decomposition, the required displacement output feedback gain matrix is found, and the explicit representation of the optimal adjusted stiffness matrix is achieved. The introduced method can ensure that the updated stiffness matrix is symmetric and positive semidefinite. Finally, two numerical examples verify the accuracy of the results obtained.
Correlation analysis of long-span cable-stayed bridge strain response with environmental and operational variations based on feature selection
Authors: Tugang Xiao , Qianhui Pu , Zhongkui Zhao , Yu Hong
Published: October 2024

The structural response of large-span bridges is significantly influenced by environmental and operational conditions. This study employs a data-driven approach, which utilizes various techniques such as multiple linear regression, best subset regression, stepwise regression, Lasso regression, Ridge regression, and ElasticNet regression to analyze in detail the effects of environmental variables (temperature variables including temperature principal components, lateral temperature gradients, and vertical temperature gradients), and traffic loading on bridge strain response. Based on the analysis of 21 months of health monitoring data from a newly constructed cable-stayed bridge, Lasso regression is shown to perform best in predicting strains on the bridge deck and bottom slab. Furthermore, sensitivity analysis identifies several key influencing factors and quantifies their relative contributions to the strain. Although the 10-min average of the strain due to traffic loading has a minimal impact, the root mean square of the strain shows a significant correlation with the cumulative gross vehicle weight during busy traffic periods. The methodology proposed in this study helps to understand the strain response patterns of large-span bridges from a data perspective, and provides an effective approach to establishing a strain baseline model that eliminates environmental and operational variations.
Outcomes Associated with Arrest for Domestic Violence: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Connor Rachel A. , Johnson Laura , Bridgeman Matthew , Shokraneh Farhad , Hakobyan Bagrat
Published: October 2024

This systematic review evaluated outcomes associated with arrest for domestic violence (DV), for both victims and perpetrators, considering both classic and modern research. A systematic search of 5 databases for quantitative reports resulted in 1,379 potentially relevant entries, of which 34 met the inclusion criteria. Studies were screened using prespecified criteria for the population (adults), outcomes (individual-level outcomes), study design (quantitative, including arrest for DV as a focal independent variable and a non-arrest comparator), publication type (peer-reviewed academic journal), study location (United States), language (English), and publication year (in or after 1984). Part I employs narrative synthesis to explore the impact of arrests by race/ethnicity, revealing gaps in reporting and a scarcity of analyses that consider race/ethnicity or its intersections with gender. Part II, a meta-analysis, indicates that arrest does not consistently reduce repeat violence and suggests variability based on the type of comparator used and the proportion of Black victims in a sample. The review finds that much of the research on the impacts of arrest is outdated and lacks diversity in data sources and outcomes, with few studies examining outcomes other than repeat violence. Future research should prioritize an intersectional approach and the perspectives and needs of survivors. Policymakers should consider the potential for disparate impacts and evaluate alternatives to mandatory arrest policies, with funding available for new data sources and related projects. Ultimately, policymakers must consider the context when evaluating the effectiveness and ethics of arrest policies.
A New Bailout Maneuver to Manage Type IIIa Endoleak Due to Displaced Renal Bridging Stent Graft in Narrow Aorta
Authors: Mezzetto Luca , Grosso Lorenzo , Veraldi Gian Franco
Published: October 2024

Purpose:

To present endovascular management of an intraoperative type IIIc endoleak (EL) in a patient with migration of the right renal artery (RRA) bridging stent graft (BSG) during branched aortic aneurysm repair.

Technique:

The technique is demonstrated in an 80-year-old woman who underwent branched endograft repair of a symptomatic 6-cm type II TAAA. The t-Branch thoracoabdominal stent graft was positioned without difficulty. A “partial graft deployment” was performed, with the distal portion of the device remaining inside the delivery system and the right renal and superior mesenteric arteries were stented. When the constraining wires were removed, the RRA BSG migration from the branch was displayed, due to endograft twisting resulting in a horizontal rotation of the t-Branch. The RRA BSG remained oriented upward with the proximal edge positioned above the distal edge of the directional branch, making cannulation very difficult. This bailout technique uses a balloon placed at the level of the RRA BSG through the celiac artery (CA) directional branch; keeping the balloon inflated and in thrust, the edge of the BSG has moved downward making it possible to engage it and relining through the RRA directional branch.

Conclusions:

This paper describes an endovascular bailout technique for relining a displaced bridging stent graft, oriented upwards with the proximal edge positioned above the distal edge of the directional branch.

Clinical Impact

This sophisticated technique adds to the spectrum of bailout techniques that can be applied in cases of type IIIa EL with migration and complete separation of BSG.
Pictures in our heads: Politics of space, time, and memory in Polish virtual reality storyworlds
Authors: Kazlauskaitė Rūta
Published: October 2024

This article examines the entangled politics of space, time and memory in the virtual realm of extended reality (XR). The illiberal right-wing Law and Justice party (Prawo i Sprawiedliwość) has been investing in the creation and dissemination of virtual reality (VR) content centred on historical themes since 2018. By mapping out the experiential geography of populism in virtual places, the article aims to identify the main features of this new immersive mode of politics. The article argues three main points on space, time, and memory: (1) in VR, places are storylived spaces that are conceived and designed by their creators to elicit a specific sense of place, accompanied by specific emotions and thoughts; (2) from an experiential point of view, the past does not exist in VR, only the virtual present, turning VR into a contemporary technology of myth-making and myth-living; (3) since VR experiences become integrated into the autobiographical memory, VR is a technology that shapes the self. In effect, VR storyworlds establish places for the embodied rehearsal of cultural memory narratives.
Toward painless road-cycling for women: Innovative pressure distribution through lattice-based seat pads
Authors: Nispel Kati , Schubert Nick , Senner Veit
Published: October 2024

Potential health risks for male athletes in professional road cycling are numerously investigated. For female athletes, necessary information is missing and thus there is a lack of equipment meeting their specific needs. The different pelvic anatomy of women compared to men suggests different saddle designs, different cycling short pads, and even different types of material to avoid pain and health problems. To collect data for a systematic development of pads specifically for women, we performed a study with 29 ambitious female athletes, who road cycle long distances (>90 min) at least once a week. First, we documented each athlete’s recent cycling situation, including the perceived comfort, grievances and the equipment used. Second, molds of the pelvis-saddle interfaces were generated using a previously developed measurement saddle to analyze pressure distributions during both static and dynamic loading. Measures were taken using the idmatch system following a bike fitting, which suggested a bicycle setup incorporating, among other factors, the individual athlete’s anthropometric data. Molds were subsequently digitized with a calibrated 3D scanner. Third, the digital pressure data resulting from the molds was analyzed considering its ability to represent interindividual differences, which validated the developed measurement saddle. Finally, a novel lattice-based pad prototype was designed based on the measured pressure data. Finite element analyses (FEA) were carried out to observe mechanical loads in the lattice structure and enable an optimization of the design. The prototype was additively manufactured using stereolithography (SLA).
Orbital tuberculosis presenting as vision loss and headache: early management is paramount
Authors: Pal Sandeep , Patidar Narendra , Tomar Gunjan , Gaikwad Himanshu
Published: October 2024

Orbital tuberculosis is a rare form of extra pulmonary TB and may arise either by hematogenous route or spread directly from the paranasal sinus. We herein report two cases of orbital TB with a vision threatening complication. Case-1 is a 31-year-old female with a headache, a diminution of vision in the right eye, and pain in ocular movement. On examination, there was no proptosis with RAPD present in right eye and tenderness on palpation. CEMRI revealed a diffuse infiltrating lesion at the orbital apex, suggesting of inflammatory pathology. Case-2 is a 40-year-old male with similar complaints in the left eye, CECT showed edema and swelling in the optic nerve and extraocular muscle of the left eye. A detailed investigation was done, and a diagnosis of orbital tuberculosis was made in both patients. They were started on ATT and oral steroids but lost follow-up initially and due to delayed treatment, it led to irreversible vision loss. A long-term follow-up showed resolution of ocular symptoms with occasional headaches.
Partnership quality and maternal depressive symptoms in the transition to parenthood: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Schwarze Cornelia E. , Lerche Veronika , Wallwiener Stephanie , Pauen Sabina
Published: October 2024

Background

Pregnancy and childbirth are critical life events which lead to significant changes in family structures and roles, thus having a substantial impact on partner relationship and maternal wellbeing. A dysfunctional partnership during this critical time of life has been associated with maternal depressiveness. However, sub-components of partnership quality and the causal relation with maternal symptoms of depression in the perinatal period have been sparsely studied so far. The current study aims to longitudinally assess the course of relationship quality and its sub-components from pregnancy to postpartum and to test a potential causal association with maternal symptoms of depression in the perinatal period.

Methods

Differing from previous studies, partnership quality and symptoms of depression have been assessed prospectively and longitudinally from an early stage of pregnancy (second trimester) until six months postpartum. Cross-lagged panel models were applied to investigate a potential causal relationship between partnership quality and maternal depressive symptoms.

Results

Relationship quality decreased significantly during the transition to parenthood (p < .05) with the steepest decline referring to tenderness (p < .001). We also found a substantial association of relationship quality and maternal depressiveness, but no indication for a clear causal direction of this association.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that relationship quality and maternal depressiveness are substantially related in the perinatal period, thus pointing to the need of early prevention and intervention programs for peripartum women and their partners to prevent adverse outcome for the couple and the family.