bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The epidemiology and outcomes of vascular trauma in Gold Coast, Australia: Institutional experience at a level 1 trauma centre
Authors: Weller Justin , Bowles Madison , Summers Zara , Bhamidipaty Venu
Published: July 2021

Background

Vascular trauma is a complex and evolving area. Unlike internationally, the epidemiology of vascular trauma is not well documented in Australia; the most recent study was published in 2013. Gold Coast University Hospital (GCUH) is a level 1 trauma centre in Queensland, Australia. The aim of this study was to describe the epidemiology and outcomes of vascular trauma at a level 1 trauma centre, and compare these with the Australian and international literature.

Methods

All individuals who presented to GCUH between January 2014 and December 2019 with vascular injury were retrieved from the GCUH prospective trauma database. A descriptive analysis was undertaken on this cohort.

Results

The incidence of vascular trauma as a percentage of total trauma remained stable over the study period. The study included 5454 trauma admissions to GCUH, of which 213 sustained vascular injuries. Males were more likely to be injured and blunt trauma was more common than penetrating. Blunt trauma was associated with increased injury complexity. The mortality rate was 8.5% and 10 patients required amputation.

Conclusions

The proportion of vascular injuries as a percentage of total trauma in Australia is higher than in previous studies. Vascular trauma causes significant injuries and has a higher mortality rate than general trauma.
Bromodomain‐containing protein 4 inhibitor JQ1 promotes melanoma cell apoptosis by regulating mitochondrial dynamics
Authors: Li Liyuan , Meng Yan , Wu Xiaolin , Li Jiajing , Sun Yuxin
Published: July 2021

Although the role of bromodomain‐containing protein 4 (BRD4) in ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, lymphoma, and many other diseases is well known, its function in cutaneous melanoma is only partially understood. The results of the present study show that the BRD4 inhibitor JQ1 promotes the apoptosis of B16 melanoma cells by altering mitochondrial dynamics, thereby inducing mitochondrial dysfunction and increasing oxidative stress. We found that treatment of B16 cells with different concentrations of JQ1 (125 nmol/L or 250 nmol/L) significantly downregulated the expression of protein subunits involved in mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes I, III, IV, and V, increased reactive oxygen species, induced energy metabolism dysfunction, significantly enhanced apoptosis, and activated the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. At the same time, JQ1 inhibited the activation of AMP‐activated protein kinase, a metabolic energy sensor. In addition, we found that the mRNA and protein levels of mitochondrial dynamin‐related protein 1 increased, whereas the levels of mitochondrial fusion protein 1 and optic atrophy protein 1 decreased. Mechanistically, we determined that JQ1 inhibited the expression of c‐Myc and altered mitochondrial dynamics, eventually leading to changes in the mitochondrial function, metabolism, and apoptosis of B16 melanoma cells.
The modifying effects of adiposity on the cardiovascular safety of sulphonylureas
Authors: Suissa Karine , Schneeweiss Sebastian , Douros Antonios , Filion Kristian B. , Yin Hui , Patorno Elisabetta , Azoulay Laurent
Published: July 2021

Aims

To determine whether adiposity modified the effect on the cardiovascular safety of sulphonylureas as a first‐line therapy compared with metformin among patients with type 2 diabetes.

Materials and Methods

Using the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink, we conducted a cohort study among 13 862 new sulphonylurea users matched on body mass index (BMI) and propensity score, in a 1:1 ratio, to new metformin users between April 1, 1998 and December 31, 2016. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), individual components of MACE (myocardial infarction [MI], ischaemic stroke, cardiovascular mortality), and all‐cause mortality, comparing use of sulphonylureas with use of metformin, overall and within BMI categories (≤24.9 kg/m2, 25.0‐29.9 kg/m2, ≥30 kg/m2).

Results

Compared with metformin, sulphonylureas were not associated with an increased risk of MACE either overall (HR 1.08, 95% CI 0.94‐1.23) or by BMI category. Similar findings were observed for MI and ischaemic stroke. By contrast, sulphonylureas were associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular mortality (HR 1.24, 95% CI 1.04‐1.48), primarily among obese patients (HR 1.52, 95% CI 1.08‐2.13), and not among normal‐weight patients (HR 1.00, 95% CI 0.72‐1.39; P‐interaction 0.21). Similar results were observed for all‐cause mortality (HR 1.47, 95% CI 1.32‐1.62), where an increased risk was observed among obese patients (HR 1.83, 95% CI 1.49‐2.25), but not normal‐weight patients (HR 1.18, 95% CI 0.99‐1.42; P‐interaction: 0.006).

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggest that adiposity may have a modifying effect on the association between sulphonylureas and cardiovascular and all‐cause mortality compared with metformin.
Migration, homing and spatial ecology of common carp in interconnected lakes
Authors: Banet Nathan V. , Fieberg John , Sorensen Peter W.
Published: July 2021

The common carp,Cyprinus carpio, is a large, long‐lived, fecund and mobile cyprinid, which evolved in complex inter‐braided Ponto‐Caspian rivers that experience both springtime flooding and freezing winters. Studies suggest adults often move to productive, shallow lakes and floodplains to spawn because they often lack egg predators and then return to deeper normoxic waters to overwinter. Whether these movements involve individuals consistently selecting, or homing to, the same spawning and refuge lakes as part of a strategy benefiting their reproductive success is unknown. To address this question, we examined the movements of 67 radio‐tagged adult carp for 3 years in a watershed with 11 interconnected lakes. Carp were tagged and released into a centrally located, normoxic deep lake in spring and fall. Each spring over 95% of its adults left via a single stream and swam into one of 5 shallow lakes, with most individuals (84%) selecting the same lake(s) in which to spawn each year (median Bhattacharyya affinity coefficient of similarity of 0.82). Young were later found in those lakes without egg predators, which cannot survive winter anoxia. After spawning, carp spent summers moving between productive lakes in an individualistic fashion, presumably foraging, with most (89%) eventually returning to the same deep lake to overwinter (median Bhattacharyya affinity of 1.0). These movements appear to reveal a life‐history tactic involving seasonal homing migration, first to a spawning location and later to winter refuges, that is well adapted to productive but highly heterogeneous and interconnected freshwater environments.
Potential for improved retention rate by personalized antiseizure medication selection: A register‐based analysis
Authors: Håkansson Samuel , Karlander Markus , Larsson David , Mahamud Zamzam , Garcia‐Ptacek Sara , Zelezniak Aleksej , Zelano Johan
Published: July 2021

Objective

The first antiseizure medication (ASM) is ineffective or intolerable in 50% of epilepsy cases. Selection between more than 25 available ASMs is guided by epilepsy factors, but also age and comorbidities. Randomized evidence for particular patient subgroups is seldom available. We asked whether register data could be used for retention rate calculations based on demographics, comorbidities, and ASM history, and quantified the potential improvement in retention rates of the first ASM in several large epilepsy cohorts. We also describe retention rates in patients with epilepsy after traumatic brain injury and dementia, patient groups with little available evidence.

Methods

We used medical, demographic, and drug prescription data from epilepsy cohorts from comprehensive Swedish registers, containing 6380 observations. By analyzing 381 840 prescriptions, we studied retention rates of first‐ and second‐line ASMs for patients with epilepsy in multiple sclerosis (MS), brain infection, dementia, traumatic brain injury, or stroke. The rank of retention rates of ASMs was validated by comparison to published randomized control trials. We identified the optimal stratification for each brain disease, and quantified the potential improvement if all patients had received the optimal ASM.

Results

Using optimal stratification for each brain disease, the potential improvement in retention rate (percentage points) was MS, 20%; brain infection, 21%; dementia, 14%; trauma, 21%; and stroke, 14%. In epilepsy after trauma, levetiracetam had the highest retention rate at 80% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 65–89), exceeding that of the most commonly prescribed ASM, carbamazepine (p = .04). In epilepsy after dementia, lamotrigine (77%, 95% CI = 68–84) and levetiracetam (74%, 95% CI = 68–79) had higher retention rates than carbamazepine (p = .006 and p = .01, respectively).

Significance

We conclude that personalized ASM selection could improve retention rates and that national registers have potential as big data sources for personalized medicine in epilepsy.
In conversation with Christine Watson
Authors: Dhillon Paraminder , Watson Christine J.
Published: July 2021

Christine J. Watson is Professor of Cell and Cancer Biology at the University of Cambridge. Christine obtained her Bachelor's (honors) degree in Biochemistry at the University of Glasgow in 1975 and, after a soujourn in Glauco Tocchini‐Valentini's lab at the Institute of Cell Biology, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche in Rome, she undertook a PhD in Molecular Genetics at Imperial College London. During her PhD, she looked at differences in gene expression between differentiated and undifferentiated embryonal carcinoma stem cells, inspiring an early interest in gene expression and cell fate determination. Between 1986 and 1992, Christine undertook three postdoctoral research positions that took her from London back to Scotland, where she was first introduced to mammary gland biology through her work with John Clark at the Roslin Institute in Edinburgh. During her time in the Clark lab, Christine identified a factor – later shown to be STAT5 – that binds to the promoter of the milk protein gene β‐lactoglobulin. This prompted further work identifying the key role played by the STAT family of transcription factors in mammary gland development. Shortly afterwards, Christine became a group leader at the Roslin Institute and later relocated to the University of Edinburgh to collaborate with Andrew Wyllie. This led to her recruitment to the University of Cambridge in 1998, where she has remained to date. Over the last two decades, the Watson lab has focused on elucidating the mechanisms underlying lineage commitment of mammary stem and progenitor cells and the regulation of cell death in involuting mammary gland. In this interview, Christine discusses her research highlights and provides a glimpse into her personal interests, as she moves towards retirement.
Alteration processes recorded by back‐arc mantle peridotites from oceanic core complexes, Shikoku Basin, Philippine Sea
Authors: Hirauchi Ken‐ichi , Segawa Izumi , Kouketsu Yui , Harigane Yumiko , Ohara Yasuhiko , Snow Jonathan , Sen Atlanta , Fujii Masakazu , Okino Kyoko
Published: July 2021

We determined the mineralogical and petrological characteristics of ultramafic rocks dredged from two oceanic core complexes: the Mado Megamullion and 23°30′N non‐transform offset massif, which are located within the Shikoku back‐arc basin in the Philippine Sea. The ultramafic rocks are strongly serpentinized, but can be classified as harzburgite/lherzolite or dunite, based on relict primary minerals and their pseudomorphs. Strongly elongated pyroxene porphyroclasts with undulatory extinction indicate high‐temperature (≥700 °C) strain localization on a detachment fault within the upper mantle at depths below the brittle–viscous transition. During exhumation, the peridotites underwent impregnation by magmatic or hydrothermal fluids, lizardite/chrysotile serpentinization at ≤300 °C, antigorite crystallization, and silica metasomatism that formed talc. These features indicate that the detachment fault zones formed a fluid pathway and facilitated a range of fluid–peridotite interactions.
No evidence that cameras affect shorebird nest survival on the coastal plain of Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, AK
Authors: Mcguire Rebecca , Latty Christopher , Brown Stephen , Schulte Shiloh , Hoepfner Sarah , Vassallo Samuel , Smith Paul
Published: July 2021

Cameras are important tools used to determine nest fate, identify predators and evaluate behaviour; however, they may impact the parameters they are used to measure, thereby biasing results. We evaluated the impact of cameras ˜ 10 m from the nest on shorebird nest survival at the Canning River Delta, Alaska, 2017–2018 (ncontrol = 122, ncamera = 109) using a much larger sample size than in previous studies conducted in the Arctic and random assignments at nest discovery. We found no effect of camera presence at the nest on daily nest survival (model‐averaged daily survival rate (DSR) 85% confidence interval (CI); control: 0.971–0.983, camera: 0.969–0.982). We suggest that nest survival studies of tundra‐nesting birds should consider the use of cameras to minimize researcher disturbance, increase the accuracy of fate assignments, and broaden the ecological data collected (e.g. incubation behaviour, predator identification and non‐anthropogenic non‐predation disruption such as by caribou).
Predictors of missed infection control care: A tri‐partite international study
Authors: Blackman Ian , Riklikiene Olga , Gurkova Elena , Willis Eileen , Henderson Julie
Published: July 2021

Aim

This study aimed to quantify types and frequencies of missed infection control care and to develop a theoretical model for estimating nurses’ consensus scores about this form of missed care.

Design

A non‐experimental research design using self‐audit data was selected to collect information about the types and frequencies of missed infection control care from nurses employed in hospitals located in three different countries. Data collection commenced mid‐year 2018.

Methods

A multivariate approach was used to apply the consensus scores of 1.911 internationally based nurses in the missed opportunities for maintaining infection control.

Results/findings

Thirteen variables exert direct effects on the nurses’ total scores underpinning missed infection control care. These include the methods used to prevent hospital‐acquired infections, surveillance and hand hygiene practices. Significant nurses’ demographic factors also included their countries of origin, employment status, employer type, job retention intentions, work intensity, length of clinical experience and staff development attendance.

Conclusion

In magnitude of importance and having the largest effect on missed infection control care is missed care related to reducing hospital‐acquired infections followed closely by surveillance. Missed infection control care can be quantified, and variances in its practices can be accounted by exploring the nurses’ differing demographic factors, including the nurses’ country of origin.

Impact

Variations in missed infection control care can be accounted for across three countries. While ward hygiene is underestimated by staff as a mechanism to minimize nosocomial infections, infection control surveillance remains the key to reducing hospital‐acquired infections. The study's outcomes invite the use of an ongoing, whole‐of‐organization approach to infection control with scrutiny being needed for improved staff adherence particularly with hand hygiene.
Infant feeding and internalized stigma: The role of guilt and shame
Authors: Russell Pascale Sophie , Birtel Michèle D. , Smith Debbie M. , Hart Kathryn , Newman Rebecca
Published: July 2021

Globally the rates of breastfeeding duration are extremely low and postnatal mental health issues are common. As a result, it is important to examine the emotions that underlie these matters. Across two studies (one correlational study N = 160 and one experimental study N = 118), we examined participants’ experiences of shame and guilt when feeding their baby, and the relationship between these emotions with breastfeeding behaviors and internalized stigma. We also examined the psychosocial factors that predict internalized stigma, and whether shame and guilt mediate these relationships. We focused on three factors that have been shown to be associated with internalized stigma in other domains: self‐esteem and social support (Study 1), as well as self‐efficacy (Study 2). Multiple regression revealed that experienced guilt uniquely predicted a shorter duration of exclusive breastfeeding (Study 1). Higher self‐efficacy (Study 2), self‐esteem, and perceived social support (Study 1) predicted lower internalized stigma of feeding choice. We found that shame was a mediator for the self‐esteem and internalized stigma relationship (Study 1), while guilt was a mediator for the self‐efficacy and internalized stigma relationship (Study 2). Our findings highlight the importance of experienced shame and guilt in mothers’ infant feeding experiences. The current results can inform future research and the design of interventions to improve breastfeeding rates and reduce feelings of stigma.
Does sibling composition in childhood contribute to adult fertility behaviors?
Authors: Hays Jake J. , Guzzo Karen Benjamin
Published: July 2021

Objective

This work addresses whether adolescent sibling composition—the presence of full‐, half‐, and step‐siblings—is associated with adult childbearing behaviors.

Background

Recent research suggests that family complexity is transmitted across generations, with individuals with half‐siblings (i.e., parental multipartner fertility [MPF]) having an increased risk of MPF themselves. Yet this work may confound parental composition and sibling composition, as complex sibling ties occur more often among those living outside of a family with both biological parents.

Method

Using data from Rounds 1–18 of the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth, 1997 Cohort, the authors test, for men and women separately, whether parental composition and sibling composition in adolescence are independently associated with the marital status of first births (N = 8768) and MPF (N = 5574).

Results

Having half‐siblings, but not full‐ or step‐siblings, increases women's odds of a nonmarital first birth over no birth and a marital birth, even when accounting for parental composition. Having half‐siblings also increases women's risk of MPF, though this link is attenuated with controls for first birth characteristics. These associations are not present for men. Parental composition is independently linked to fertility.

Conclusion

For women, accounting for sibling composition appears to capture aspects of family that are not identified with parental composition.
Epidemiology of child playground equipment‐related injuries in the USA: Emergency department visits, 1995–2019
Authors: Nabavizadeh Behnam , Hakam Nizar , Holler Jordan T , Namiri Nikan K , Sadighian Michael J , Rios Natalie , Enriquez Anthony , Amend Gregory M. , Breyer Benjamin N.
Published: July 2021

Aim

To analyse the most recent trends and characteristics of playground equipment‐related injuries in children.

Methods

We used the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System database to acquire cases of playground equipment‐related injuries in children ≤17 years old between 1995 and 2019. A total of 184 580 unweighted cases met our study inclusion criteria.

Results

A total of 5 356 703 (95% confidence interval 4 235 530–6 477 876) emergency department visits for playground‐related injuries in the USA were estimated during the study period which was equal to an average of 29.4 annual injuries per 10 000 US population ≤17 years. The mean age was 6.5 (standard error 0.049) years. School‐aged (42.7%) and pre‐school children (35.3%) accounted for most playground injuries. More than half of the injuries were reported in males (53.6%). Most injuries occurred with climbing apparatuses (36%), followed by swings (25.9%) and slides (20.9%). Overall number of injuries (∆ − 22.3%, P = 0.01) and incidence (∆ − 21.6%, P = 0.01) had a declining trend after 2012. However, reported concussion injuries showed an increasing trend during the study (∆ + 28.3%, P < 0.001). A marked seasonal variation in number of injuries existed with most injuries in May and September.

Conclusions

Although injuries arising from playground equipment have decreased during the past 8 years, there was an increase in number of reported concussions. The outcomes of this study suggested that further efforts should be directed towards such serious injuries.
Functional and taxonomic alpha and beta diversity responses to burning grasslands in southern Brazil
Authors: Joner Fernando , Giehl Eduardo L. H. , Pillar Valério D.
Published: July 2021

Questions

Grasslands in subtropical Brazil are known as potentially fire‐prone ecosystems. Aiming to better understand the effects of fire on biodiversity, we addressed the following questions: does fire benefit all alpha and beta components of taxonomic and functional diversity in grasslands; which functional groups are affected; does diversity foster recovery of above‐ground biomass after fire?

Location

Campos grassland, southern Brazil

Methods

The effects of fire were investigated using a before/after control/impact experimental design. A randomized block design with seven replicates was set up, where a fire experiment was established after three years of both grazing and fire exclusion. Each block contained two paired 10 m × 10 m plots. We assessed plant species composition, plant functional trait composition, plant functional groups, and above‐ground biomass before and after fire in both burnt and control plots.

Results

Both taxonomic and functional alpha diversity increased in burnt plots and decreased in unburnt plots across time. Taxonomic species richness considering total species increased more than considering common species only. Functional beta diversity increased in burnt plots while taxonomic beta diversity stayed similar between treatments. Forb total cover increased after fire while graminoids and shrubs remained unchanged. Burnt plots with high initial functional richness presented greater biomass recovery, whereas species richness presented no relation with above‐ground biomass.

Conclusions

Fire increases species and functional richness in plots of subtropical Campos grasslands (alpha diversity component), and while it increases functional beta diversity, taxonomic beta diversity remained unchanged. Functional diversity is important for maintaining grassland biomass recovery after fire.
The effects of climate and demographic history in shaping genomic variation across populations of the Desert Horned Lizard (Phrynosoma platyrhinos)
Authors: Farleigh Keaka , Vladimirova Sarah A. , Blair Christopher , Bracken Jason T. , Koochekian Nazila , Schield Drew R. , Card Daren C. , Finger Nicholas , Henault Jonathan , Leaché Adam D. , Castoe Todd A. , Jezkova Tereza
Published: July 2021

Species often experience spatial environmental heterogeneity across their range, and populations may exhibit signatures of adaptation to local environmental characteristics. Other population genetic processes, such as migration and genetic drift, can impede the effects of local adaptation. Genetic drift in particular can have a pronounced effect on population genetic structure during large‐scale geographic expansions, where a series of founder effects leads to decreases in genetic variation in the direction of the expansion. Here, we explore the genetic diversity of a desert lizard that occupies a wide range of environmental conditions and that has experienced post‐glacial expansion northwards along two colonization routes. Based on our analyses of a large SNP data set, we find evidence that both climate and demographic history have shaped the genetic structure of populations. Pronounced genetic differentiation was evident between populations occupying cold versus hot deserts, and we detected numerous loci with significant associations with climate. The genetic signal of founder effects, however, is still present in the genomes of the recently expanded populations, which comprise subsets of genetic variation found in the southern populations.
Expression of Concern: Natural copy number variation of tandemly repeated regulatory SNORD RNAs leads to individual phenotypic differences in mice
Authors: Keshavarz Maryam , Savriama Yoland , Refki Peter , Reeves R. Guy , Tautz Diethard
Published: July 2021

Genic copy number differences can have phenotypic consequences, but so far this has not been studied in detail in natural populations. Here, we analysed the natural variation of two families of tandemly repeated regulatory small nucleolar RNAs (SNORD115 and SNORD116) in the house mouse (Mus musculus). They are encoded within the Prader‐Willi Syndrome gene region, known to be involved in behavioural, metabolic, and osteogenic functions in mammals. We determined that the copy numbers of these SNORD RNAs show substantial natural variation, both in wild‐derived mice as well as in an inbred mouse strain (C57BL/6J). We show that copy number differences are subject to change across generations, making them highly variable and resulting in individual differences. In transcriptome data from brain samples, we found SNORD copy‐number correlated regulation of possible target genes, including Htr2c, a predicted target gene of SNORD115, as well as Ankrd11, a predicted target gene of SNORD116. Ankrd11 is a chromatin regulator, which has previously been implicated in regulating the development of the skull. Based on morphometric shape analysis of the skulls of individual mice of the inbred strain, we show that shape measures correlate with SNORD116 copy numbers in the respective individuals. Our results suggest that the variable dosage of regulatory RNAs can lead to phenotypic variation between individuals that would typically have been ascribed to environmentally induced variation, while it is actually encoded in individual differences of copy numbers of regulatory molecules.
Atypical pathogens associated with cardiac implantable electronic device infections
Authors: Kohli Utkarsh , Hazra Aniruddha , Shahab Ahmed , Beaser Andrew D. , Aziz Zaid A. , Upadhyay Gaurav A. , Ozcan Cevher , Tung Roderick , Nayak Hemal M.
Published: July 2021

Background

Cardiovascular implantable electronic device (CIED) infections are associated with significant morbidity and mortality making the identification of the causative organism critical. The vast majority of CIED infections are caused by Staphylococcal species. CIED infections associated with atypical pathogens are rare and have not been systematically investigated. The objective of this study is to characterize the clinical course, management and outcome in patients with CIED infection secondary to atypical pathogens.

Methods

Medical records of all patients who underwent CIED system extraction at the University of Chicago Medical Center between January 2010 and November 2020 were retrospectively reviewed to identify patients with CIED infection. Demographic, clinical, infection‐related and outcome data were collected. CIED infections were divided into typical and atypical groups based on the pathogens isolated.

Results

Among 356 CIED extraction procedures, 130 (37%) were performed for CIED infection. Atypical pathogens were found in 5.4% (n = 7) and included Pantoea species (n = 2), Kocuria species (n = 1), Cutibacterium acnes (n = 1), Corynebacterium tuberculostearicum (n = 1), Corynebacterium striatum (n = 1), Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (n = 1), and Pseudozyma ahidis (n = 1). All patients with atypical CIED infections were successfully treated with total system removal and tailored antibiotic therapy. There were no infection‐related deaths.

Conclusions

CIED infections with atypical pathogens were rare and associated with good outcome if diagnosed early and treated with total system removal and tailored antimicrobial therapy. Atypical pathogens cultured from blood, tissue or hardware in patients with CIED infection should be considered pathogens and not contaminants.
Predictors of outcomes in hospitalized patients undergoing pacemaker insertion: Analysis from the national inpatient database (2016‐2017)
Authors: Kichloo Asim , Shaka Hafeez , Aljadah Michael , Amir Rawan , Albosta Michael , Jamal Shakeel , Khan Muhammad Zia , Wani Farah , Mir Khalid Mohiuddin , Kanjwal Khalil
Published: July 2021

Background

Pacemaker implantation in the U.S. is rising due to an aging population. The aim of this analysis was to identify risk factors associated with increased mortality and complications in hospitalized patients requiring pacemaker implantation.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis using the National Inpatient Sample database, identifying hospitalized patients who underwent pacemaker implantation using International Classification of Disease, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification codes. Independent predictors of inpatient mortality were identified using multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

There were 242,980 hospitalizations with pacemaker implantation during 2016 and 2017. The most frequently encountered indications for hospitalizations involving pacemaker insertion included sick sinus syndrome (SSS) (27.60%), complete atrioventricular (AV) block (21.57%), and second‐degree AV block (7.83%). Chronic liver disease was associated with the highest adjusted odds of inpatient mortality (aOR = 5.76, 95% CI: 4.46 to 7.44, p < .001). Comorbid anemia had the highest statistically significant adjusted odds ratio (aOR) for predictors of post‐procedural cardiac complications (aOR = 3.17, 95% CI: 2.81 to 3.58, p < .001). Mortality in hospitalized patients needing pacemaker implantation was 1.05%. About 3.36% of hospitalizations developed post procedural circulatory complications (PPCC), 2.45% developed sepsis, and 1.84% developed mechanical complications of cardiac electronic devices.

Conclusions

We identified several predictors of inpatient mortality in hospitalized patients undergoing pacemaker implantation, including chronic liver disease, protein‐calorie malnutrition, chronic heart failure, anemia, and history of malignancy. Anemia, chronic liver disease, and congestive heart failure were independent predictors of adverse outcomes in such patients.
Periorbital hypopigmentation and telangiectasias: Clues to diagnosing neonatal lupus in skin of color
Authors: Kleitsch Julianne , Mazori Daniel R. , Derrick Kristina M. , Uwakwe Laura N. , Glick Sharon A.
Published: July 2021

Neonatal lupus erythematosus (NLE) is an autoimmune disease characterized by a periorbital erythematous rash. Although post‐inflammatory hypopigmentation and telangiectasias are known possible sequelae, these features may be particularly noticeable in skin of color. Herein, we describe two infants with skin of color in whom periorbital hypopigmentation and telangiectasias were clues to the diagnosis of NLE.
Wealth Inequality: A Hybrid Approach Toward Multidimensional Distributional National Accounts In Europe
Authors: Waltl Sofie R.
Published: July 2021

This article proposes a practically feasible framework for compiling Multidimensional Distributional National Accounts (MDINAs) serving two functions: a comprehensive measure of (components of) net worth and their distribution, and a link to macroeconomic statistics. I break down 12 components of marketable wealth by wealth and income groups, and three functions of wealth for Austria, Finland, France, Germany, and Spain. MDINA complemented by summary indicators reveal large heterogeneity in the degree of inequality, and shed light on differences in the structure of wealth portfolios across and within countries. I combine data collected in the largely harmonized HFCS survey and adjust for remaining differences in survey modes regarding the treatment of the top tail using (Generalized) Pareto models estimated from rich lists or top wealth shares derived from tax data and leaked information on wealth held in offshore tax havens. Measured inequality increases strongest in countries where surveys refrain from appropriate top‐tail corrections.
Cadaverine regulates biotin synthesis to modulate primary root growth in Arabidopsis
Authors: Gibbs Nicole M. , Su Shih‐Heng , Lopez‐Nieves Samuel , Mann Stéphane , Alban Claude , Maeda Hiroshi A. , Masson Patrick H.
Published: July 2021

Cadaverine, a polyamine, has been linked to modification of root growth architecture and response to environmental stresses in plants. However, the molecular mechanisms that govern the regulation of root growth by cadaverine are largely unexplored. Here we conducted a forward genetic screen and isolated a mutation, cadaverine hypersensitive 3 (cdh3), which resulted in increased root‐growth sensitivity to cadaverine, but not other polyamines. This mutation affects the BIO3‐BIO1 biotin biosynthesis gene. Exogenous supply of biotin and a pathway intermediate downstream of BIO1, 7,8‐diaminopelargonic acid, suppressed this cadaverine sensitivity phenotype. An in vitro enzyme assay showed cadaverine inhibits the BIO3‐BIO1 activity. Furthermore, cadaverine‐treated seedlings displayed reduced biotinylation of Biotin Carboxyl Carrier Protein 1 of the acetyl‐coenzyme A carboxylase complex involved in de novo fatty acid biosynthesis, resulting in decreased accumulation of triacylglycerides. Taken together, these results revealed an unexpected role of cadaverine in the regulation of biotin biosynthesis, which leads to modulation of primary root growth of plants.
Grain Temperature-Dependent Thermal Properties Estimation Using FI-QPSO Algorithm
Authors: Xu Hongmei , Liu Juan , Wang Kun , Kong Songtao , Shi Yong
Published: July 2021

A hybrid fuzzy inference-quantum particle swarm optimization (FI-QPSO) algorithm is developed to estimate the temperature-dependent thermal properties of the grain. The fuzzy inference scheme is established to determine the contraction-expansion coefficient according to the aggregation degree of particles. The heat transfer process in the grain bulk is solved using the finite element method, and the estimation task is formulated as an inverse problem. Numerical experiments are performed to study the effects of the surface heat flux, measurement errors, and the individual space on the estimation results. Comparison with the quantum particle swarm optimization (QPSO) algorithm and conjugate gradient method (CGM) is also conducted, and it shows the validity of the estimation method established in this paper.
Inelastic Deformation of Copper Nanoparticle Based Joints and Bonds
Authors: Thekkut Sanoop , Kokash Maan Zaid , Sivasubramony Rajesh Sharma , Kawana Yuki , Mirpuri Kabir , Shahane Ninad , Thompson Patrick , Greene Christopher M. , Borgesen Peter
Published: July 2021

The inelastic deformation properties of sintered metal nanoparticle joints are complicated by the inherent nanocrystalline and nanoporous structures, as well as by dislocation networks formed in sintering or under cyclic loading. Creep rates of sintered nanocopper structures were found to be dominated by the diffusion of individual atoms or vacancies, while dislocation motion remained negligible up to stresses far above those of practical interest. Rapid sintering of one material led to unstable structures with particularly narrow necks between Cu particles and a dense network of dislocations. Creep rates were dominated by dislocation core diffusion within the necks to the nearest open pore surfaces. Exposure to elevated temperatures led to coarsening of the necks and, importantly, annihilation of dislocations, which reduced the creep strongly. Longer sintering of another material led to wider necks without excess dislocations and thus more stable structures. Creep rates were dominated by grain boundary diffusion within the necks and could be strongly enhanced by subsequent work hardening in mild cycling.
Computationally Efficient and Accurate Solution for Colebrook Equation Based on Lagrange Theorem
Authors: Lamri Ahmed A. , Easa Said M.
Published: July 2021

Computationally efficient solutions (less computation time) for the Colebrook equation are essential for simulating pipeline networks. However, the friction law resistance formula has an implicit form for the friction factor. In this study, a computationally efficient and accurate solution for the friction head loss in pipeline networks is developed using the Lagrange inversion theorem. The results are in the form of fast converging power series. Truncated and regressed expressions are obtained using two and three terms of the expanded series that have maximum relative errors of 0.149% and 0.040%, respectively. The proposed solution is as accurate as existing analytic solutions but is computationally more efficient in estimating the friction head loss.
Prediction uncertainty of wind-generated noise spectra from wind speed
Authors: Zhang Ying , Yang Qiulong , Yang Kunde
Published: July 2021

The prediction of wind-generated noise spectral levels at one frequency is typically based on a linear regression function, which is defined over the logarithm of the 10-m wind speed. However, despite its widespread success, the linear regression model does not pay attention to its prediction uncertainty because it makes point predictions. The main reasons for the uncertainty in the predicted value of the wind-generated noise level are that it cannot be uniquely determined by 10-m wind speed and its measurements may be corrupted by other sources of ambient noise. To quantify the uncertainty in predictions in this scenario, a Bayesian treatment of linear regression models and its associated predictive distribution are applied, making distribution predictions instead of point predictions. Once the predictive distribution for one frequency has been fixed, its linear variants are used to obtain predictive distributions for other frequencies. The data for the ocean ambient noise and 10-m wind speed are collected from two deep-water experiments, conducted in the South China Sea, and reanalysis data sets of the European Centre For Medium-Range Weather Forecasts, respectively. Empirical expressions for the predictive distribution of noise spectra (0.5–10 kHz) at wind speeds from 3.3 to 14 m/s have been developed. The results indicate decreasing uncertainties with an increasing wind speed.
Double-strand breaks in genome-sized DNA caused by megahertz ultrasound
Authors: Ma Yue , Ishihara Kazuya , Yoshida Kenji , Akiyama Iwaki , Yoshikawa Kenichi
Published: July 2021

Double-strand breaks (DSBs) of giant DNA molecules after exposure to 1.0 MHz pulsed-wave ultrasound were quantitatively evaluated by single-molecule observation of giant DNA (T4 GT7 DNA; 166 kbp) through fluorescence microscopy. Aqueous solutions of DNA were exposed to ultrasonic waves with different sound pressures, repetition periods (1, 2, 5 ms), and pulse durations (5, 10, 50 μs). Below a threshold value of sound pressure, almost no double-strand breaks were generated, and above the threshold, the degree of damage increased in an accelerated manner as the pressure increased. DNA damage was much more severe for exposure to ultrasound with a shorter pulse duration. In addition, a longer pulse repetition period caused worse damage in DNA molecules. The effect of microbubbles on the damage induced by exposure to ultrasound had also been studied. While a result showed that a very small amount of microbubbles increased DSBs of DNA, this effect of microbubbles only weakly depended on their concentrations.
Longitudinal Model-Based Biomarker Analysis of Exposure-Response Relationships in Adults with Pulmonary Tuberculosis
Authors: Gewitz Andrew D. , Solans Belén P. , Mac Kenzie William R. , Heilig Chad , Whitworth William C. , Johnson John L. , Nsubuga Pheona , Dorman Susan , Weiner Marc , Savic Radojka M.
Published: July 2021

The identification of sensitive, specific, and reliable biomarkers that can be quantified in the early phases of tuberculosis treatment and predictive of long-term outcome is key for the development of an effective short-course treatment regimen. Time to positivity (TTP), a biomarker of treatment outcome against
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
, measures longitudinal bacterial growth in mycobacterial growth indicator tube broth culture and may be predictive of standard time to stable culture conversion (TSCC).
Glucocorticoid induced adrenal insufficiency
Authors: Prete Alessandro , Bancos Irina
Published: July 2021

Synthetic glucocorticoids are widely used for their anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive actions. A possible unwanted effect of glucocorticoid treatment is suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, which can lead to adrenal insufficiency. Factors affecting the risk of glucocorticoid induced adrenal insufficiency (GI-AI) include the duration of glucocorticoid therapy, mode of administration, glucocorticoid dose and potency, concomitant drugs that interfere with glucocorticoid metabolism, and individual susceptibility. Patients with exogenous glucocorticoid use may develop features of Cushing’s syndrome and, subsequently, glucocorticoid withdrawal syndrome when the treatment is tapered down. Symptoms of glucocorticoid withdrawal can overlap with those of the underlying disorder, as well as of GI-AI. A careful approach to the glucocorticoid taper and appropriate patient counseling are needed to assure a successful taper. Glucocorticoid therapy should not be completely stopped until recovery of adrenal function is achieved. In this review, we discuss the factors affecting the risk of GI-AI, propose a regimen for the glucocorticoid taper, and make suggestions for assessment of adrenal function recovery. We also describe current gaps in the management of patients with GI-AI and make suggestions for an approach to the glucocorticoid withdrawal syndrome, chronic management of glucocorticoid therapy, and education on GI-AI for patients and providers.
Medication-assisted treatment and self-help group participation among military veterans with opioid or alcohol use disorder
Authors: Albright David L , McDaniel J T , Suntai Z , Laha-Walsh M K , Frick K , Weatherly T , McIntosh S
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is a combination of behavioural therapy and medications to assist with recovery and has been administered to individuals with alcohol and opioid withdrawal symptoms. Military veterans seeking MAT could have barriers preventing them from receiving the care they desire. The present study sought to compare outcomes in individuals who received MAT or those who participated in self-help groups for opioid or alcohol use disorder. In addition, the present study sought to compare outcomes between veterans and non-military-connected individuals.

Methods

We used the 2015–2017 United States Treatment Episode Data Set Discharges data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. The data set included 138 594 unique discharges. A multinomial logistic regression model was used to examine differences in substance use outcomes for veterans/non-veterans in MAT and a self-help group.

Results

Fewer veterans (2.58%) than non-veterans (4.28%) reported usage of MAT. Fewer veterans (38.94%) than non-veterans (40.17%) reported signing up for a self-help group. Finally, those who participated in MATanda self-help group had a better outcome (66.64%)—defined as no substance use at discharge—than those who only received MAT (43.02%) and those who did not participate in MAT or self-help groups (34.84%).

Conclusions

Recommendations for future research on MAT and implementation for the veteran population would benefit the literature base.
Home interventions and light therapy for the treatment of vitiligo
(HI-Light Vitiligo Trial): study protocol for a randomised controlled
trial
Authors: Haines Rachel H , Thomas Kim S , Montgomery Alan A , Ravenscroft Jane C , Akram Perways , Chalmers Joanne R , Whitham Diane , Duley Lelia , Eleftheriadou Viktoria , Meakin Garry , Mitchell Eleanor J , White Jennifer , Rogers Andy , Sach Tracey , Santer Miriam , Tan Wei , Hepburn Trish , Williams Hywel C , Batchelor Jonathan
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Vitiligo is a condition resulting in white patches on the skin.
People with vitiligo can suffer from low self-esteem, psychological
disturbance and diminished quality of life. Vitiligo is often poorly
managed, partly due to lack of high-quality evidence to inform clinical
care. We describe here a large, independent, randomised controlled trial
(RCT) assessing the comparative effectiveness of potent topical
corticosteroid, home-based hand-held narrowband ultraviolet B-light
(NB-UVB) or combination of the two, for the management of
vitiligo.

Methods and analysis

The HI-Light Vitiligo Trial is a multicentre, three-arm, parallel
group, pragmatic, placebo-controlled RCT. 516 adults and children with
actively spreading, but limited, vitiligo are randomised (1:1:1) to one
of three groups: mometasone furoate 0.1% ointment plus dummy NB-UVB
light, vehicle ointment plus NB-UVB light or mometasone furoate 0.1%
ointment plus NB-UVB light. Treatment of up to three patches of vitiligo
is continued for up to 9 months with clinic visits at baseline, 3, 6 and
9 months and four post-treatment questionnaires.

The HI-Light Vitiligo Trial assesses outcomes included in the
vitiligo core outcome set and places emphasis on participants’ views of
treatment success. The primary outcome is proportion of participants
achieving treatment success (patient-rated Vitiligo Noticeability Scale)
for a target patch of vitiligo at 9 months with further independent
blinded assessment using digital images of the target lesion before and
after treatment. Secondary outcomes include time to onset of treatment
response, treatment success by body region, percentage repigmentation,
quality of life, time-burden of treatment, maintenance of response,
safety and within-trial cost-effectiveness.

Ethics and dissemination

Approvals were granted by East Midlands—Derby Research Ethics
Committee (14/EM/1173) and the MHRA (EudraCT 2014-003473-42). The trial
was registered 8 January 2015 ISRCTN (17160087). Results will be
published in full as open access in the NIHR Journal library and
elsewhere.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN17160087.