bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Wisconsin Longitudinal Study: New Cognitive, Genetic, Biological, and Social Data and a Diversifying Sample
Authors: Engelman Michal
Published: December 2021

The Wisconsin Longitudinal Study (WLS) has followed a sample of one in three Wisconsin high school graduates from the class of 1957 for over 64 years, making it an excellent data source for researchers interested in linking early and midlife characteristics to a wide range of later-life outcomes. The WLS is unique among major studies of aging cohorts for its duration of follow up, the inclusion of siblings, and the combination of rich social and health information. This symposium will provide an overview of the WLS, describe recent data collection and linkages, and introduce ongoing efforts to diversify the educational and racial/ethnic composition of the study sample. WLS data cover nearly every aspect of the participants’ lives from early life socioeconomic background, schooling, family, and work, to physical and mental health, social participation, civic engagement, well-being, and cognition. The study is linked to administrative data including Medicare records, Social Security records, mortality records, and resource data on primary and secondary schools attended by participants as well as characteristics of their employers, industries, and communities of residence. Recent data collection efforts have generated a wealth of new biological and cognitive information, including genetic data collected from saliva and blood samples, measures of the gut microbiome, and derived polygenic scores for educational attainment, cognitive performance, depression, and subjective well-being. The currently-fielding ILIAD effort is implementing rigorous AD diagnostic protocols to track the progression of dementia across cognitive phenotypes. The symposium will conclude with practical information on accessing and using the data.
Biological Measures in the WLS: Genetic and Microbiome Data
Authors: Sicinski Kamil
Published: December 2021

Ever since releasing genotype data in 2017, the WLS continually expands resources available to users interested in genetic research. Key advantages to the WLS data for genetics research include its sibling sample and nearly full life course longitudinal study design. In 2021, we now have state-of-the-art polygenic scores available in multiple domains, such as health, cognition, fertility, personality, risk behaviors and attitudes, and life satisfaction. The scores cover phenotypes spanning from adventurousness, through educational attainment, to age at which voice deepened. Additionally, the genotype data was re-imputed in 2021 to the superior Haplotype Reference Consortium reference panel and the WLS expects to obtain copy number variants data next year. In addition to genetic data, we have a set of novel microbiome data on a subset of participants that allows researchers to study relationships between environments and gut microbial composition.
Developing a Reablement Program Aimed at Preventing Unnecessary Care Transitions After Geriatric Rehabilitation
Authors: Mouchaers Ines , Verbeek Hilde , Kempen Gertrudis , van Haastregt Jolanda , Vlaeyen Ellen , Goderis Geert , Metzelthin Silke
Published: December 2021

Patients returning home after geriatric rehabilitation may encounter several challenges related to daily functioning, which only manifest after returned home due to the large difference in environment and amount of support provided in both settings. This study aimed to develop an intervention preventing transitional care. A co-creation design was used, including literature research, observations, interviews, and working groups including a variety of stakeholders (n=13), including care professionals, policymakers of the municipality, client representatives, and an expert in the field of geriatric rehabilitation. Results indicated four main causes for transitional care problems: lack of communication between patients and professionals, coordination and continuity of care, patients’ limited self-management skills, and insufficient preparation. To solve these problems, an intervention was developed consisting of six intervention components aiming to increase self-management during meaningful daily activities, narrow the gap between the rehabilitation and home setting, and enhance communication and coordination.
Aging With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: A Critical Examination of Supports for Healthy Aging
Authors: van Heumen Lieke , Munly Kelly , Heyn Patricia
Published: December 2021

The number of older adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in the U.S. is expected to double and potentially triple by 2030. Despite this demographic urgency, there continues to be a lack of research directly addressing aging of people with IDD. Individuals with IDD have on average twice as many health problems than others without IDD, experience earlier age-related declines in health and function than the general population and are more likely to develop secondary conditions as they age. The increase in the number of people aging with IDD and the challenges experienced by this population have demanded new directions for research, practice and policy that promote social justice and improve this population’s health and well-being. This symposium brings together research that critically examines and calls for a “new normal” of supports for healthy aging provided to the population aging with IDD. The first presentation consists of a systematic review of healthy aging interventions for adults with IDD. The authors conclude that such interventions for adults with IDD remain scarce, incipient and sporadic. The second presentation critically reviews an interprofessional education model aimed to address the complex and unique needs of older adults with IDD and dementia. The authors provide recommendations for the future development of interprofessional education in this field. In the third and final presentation the authors offer further transformation toward a new normal as they outline future directions for research on aging with IDD that is informed by positive psychology and disability studies theory.
Are Persons With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Being Embraced in Healthy Aging Interventions?
Authors: Santos Flavia , Zurek Johanna , Janicki Matthew
Published: December 2021

We carried out a systematic review of healthy ageing interventions for adults with IDD. Twenty-three prospective studies including 2,398 men and women [average age: 44.3 years old] were found worldwide. Among them were only five RCTs. The designs usually were within or between subjects involving small sample sizes (ranging from 8 to 379 participants), mostly non-randomised or without follow up. We identified four thematic areas: Physical activity - nutrition and health (n = 10); Health education and health exams (n = 6); Social inclusion and community participation (n = 3); and Multi-components (n = 4). Overall, studies found effective outcomes, such as loss of body weight and improvement in nutritional habits, despite a few negative findings. We conclude that healthy ageing initiatives for people with IDD continue to be scarce, incipient, and sporadic. More research should embrace health promotion in people with IDD as a programme practice and public policy.
Factors Related to COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake in Black American Communities
Authors: Johnson Julene , Harris Orlando , Hill Carl V , Lichtenberg Peter , Keiser Sahru , Tran Thi , Perry Tam , Portacolone Elena
Published: December 2021

Black/African Americans represent 13% of the population, yet account for more than 24% of COVID-19 deaths. Emerging evidence indicates that Black Americans are receiving COVID-19 vaccines at lower rates than whites. However, there is minimal information about why vaccination rates are lower. To address this gap, we examined the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic among Black Americans, with an emphasis on understanding trust and vaccine uptake. Data were collected between July and September 2020 using 8 virtual focus groups in Detroit, MI and San Francisco Bay Area, CA with 33 older Black Americans and 11 caregivers of older Black Americans with cognitive impairment. Inductive/deductive content analysis was used to identify themes. The first theme pointed to a sense of feeling abandoned by healthcare providers and the government at local and state levels, which exacerbated uncertainty and fear about the vaccine and in general. The second theme emphasized a sense of deep distrust towards healthcare providers and the government, especially during the pandemic. The third theme pointed to a reluctance in receiving the vaccine because of distrust of pharmaceutical companies and the government, as well as misinformation and the rapid speed of vaccine development. These findings suggest that underlying systemic issues need to be addressed immediately to accelerate vaccine uptake among older Black Americans. New initiatives are needed to foster trust and address abandonment by healthcare and government systems. In addition, public health campaigns with reliable information about the COVID-19 vaccine are needed.
Implementing a Personalized Music Intervention for Persons Living With Dementia in Nursing Facilities
Authors: Inoue Megumi , Li Meng-Hao , Ihara Emily , Tompkins Catherine , Clark Christi , Layman Shannon
Published: December 2021

The Mason Music & Memory Initiative (M3I) team has implemented a personalized music intervention in nursing facilities across Virginia aiming to improve behavioral and psychological symptoms of persons living with dementia. This person-centered intervention uses a unique music playlist comprising songs, artists, and preferred musical genres. The preliminary findings from a randomized controlled trial will be reported, the purpose of which was to examine the intervention impact on nursing home residents’ mood and behavior. Based on the findings from 16 facilities with 158 residents who have completed the study, both quantitative and qualitative data indicate the positive effects on residents, including improved sleep and mood, as well as reduced agitation. The challenges in implementing intervention research in nursing facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic and the principles of telehealth and virtual support for facilities that were used to address those challenges will also be discussed.
Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Difficulties Predict Cognitive Decline in Older Puerto Rican Adults
Authors: Pope Caitlin , Bell Tyler , Downer Brian , Milani Sadaf , Roach Lauren , Crowe Michael
Published: December 2021

Given the hypothesized bidirectional association between functional and cognitive decline, further characterization of the temporal association between the two is needed, especially in Latinx samples as they are the most rapidly growing demographic in the United States and at greater risk for Alzheimer’s disease. This study assessed bidirectional associations between instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) difficulty and cognition in older Puerto Rican adults. Participants included 2,840 community-dwelling adults (60+ years) without cognitive impairment who completed baseline and a four-year follow-up in the Puerto Rican Elderly: Health Conditions (PREHCO) project. At each wave, cognition (using the Mini-Mental Cabán) and self-reported IADL difficulty (a sum score of 10 everyday tasks) were measured. Covariates included age, gender, education, comorbidities, and depressive symptoms. Bidirectional associations were tested using a path model with concurrent and cross-lagged paths between cognition and IADL difficulty adjusting for covariates. Lower baseline cognition related to more baseline IADL difficulty (B=-0.08, SE=0.02, p<.001). Cognitive decline at follow-up related to greater IADL difficulty at follow-up (B=-0.06, SE=0.02, p=.012). Looking at cross-lagged associations, greater baseline IADL difficulty associated with more cognitive decline at follow-up (B=-0.10, SE=0.04, p=.012). However, baseline cognition was not significantly associated with change in IADL difficulty at follow-up (B=-0.003, SE=0.02, p=.869). Findings support the growing body of literature that IADL difficulties can predict future cognitive decline in samples of community-dwelling older adults. More research into both functional and cognitive decline in Latinx samples will provide a more generalizable view of aging.
The Relationship Between Loneliness and the COVID-19 Pandemic on Cognition and Well-Being in Older Adults
Authors: Rhodus Elizabeth , Barber Justin , Gibson Allison , Bardach Shoshana , Parsons Kelly , Johnson Julia , Jicha Gregory
Published: December 2021

Social distancing is necessary to limit the spread of Covid-19. However, many older adults are predisposed to isolation and loneliness despite calls to socially distance. The current study examined loneliness during Covid-19 in relation to cognition and wellbeing in older adults. Data were extracted from a U.S. ADRC longitudinal study of aging database. Cognition was assessed using the NACC UDS 3.0 battery. Measures of well-being include: Short Form Health Survey, Subjective Memory Assessment, and Geriatric Depression Scale. Measurement of loneliness was selected from the NIH ADRC Covid-19 questionnaire. Data were from 115 older adults with normal cognition or MCI with a visit ≤18 months before research stoppage in March 2020 and after resumption in late-June 2020. Cognition and wellbeing are compared before and after onset of pandemic. Isolation due to Covid-19 may have long-term implications. Results of this study will highlight the need for acute assessments and psychosocial interventions.
Experienced Family Caregiver Perspectives on Advance Care Planning for African Americans Living With Dementia
Authors: Moss Karen , Wright Kathy , Hurst Laurel Myers , Grieff Abigail , Rose Karen , Monroe Todd , Willis Celia
Published: December 2021

Most existing advance care planning (ACP) programs do not meet the needs of lower socioeconomic status (SES) African American (AA) older adults living with dementia. The perspectives of experienced family caregivers are integral to achieving appropriate ACP tailoring. The purpose of this study is to describe experienced family caregiver perceptions about needs and preferences for tailoring ACP for family caregivers of lower SES AA older adults living with dementia. This qualitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study is embedded within a larger community-based participatory study aimed at intervention development. Caregivers are completing up to two interviews. Preliminary data describes themes involving Caregiver Stress and suggestions for Service Improvements addressing grief and loss pre- and post-death. Caregiver findings and other stakeholder data from healthcare providers and community leaders will guide the design of a “new normal” enhanced, preference-consistent ACP intervention to improve end-of-life care during a global pandemic that is amplifying pre-existing healthcare disparities.
Gender, Family Histories, and Late-Life Economic Well-Being
Authors: Carr Deborah , Smock Pamela , Ghilarducci Teresa
Published: December 2021

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The Effects of Gender and Marital Status on Accrued Debt in Retirement Planning
Authors: Zurlo Karen , Chen Zibei
Published: December 2021

The effects of gender and marital status on accrued debt in retirement planning becomes an urgent concern because unmarried women face greater financial challenges in retirement than their counterparts. This study used data from the National Financial Capability Study (NFCS), designed by FINRA. We identified debt that influences retirement planning among a sample of pre-retirees, aged 51 to 61 years, and consider the associations of gender, marital status, debt, and retirement planning. Our results indicated that mortgage debt and credit card debt were negatively associated with retirement planning for women. Having a retirement account is positively associated with retirement planning and it also mediates the relationship between credit card debt and retirement planning. We urge women and financial planning executives to take time during the pre-retirement years to assess their various forms of debt and determine how it affects retirement planning objectives given current marital status.
Examining the Relationship Between Preference for Solitude and Subjective Well-Being Among Japanese Older Adults
Authors: Toyoshima Aya , Kusumi Takashi
Published: December 2021

Background and Objectives

Focusing on the fact that older adults with positive emotions tend to spend time alone, this study aimed to examine the relationship between preference for solitude and subjective well-being among older adults. In Study 1, we developed a revised version of the Preference for Solitude Scale with a 3-factor structure, unlike the single-factor structure of the original scale. In Study 2, we examined the relationship between preference for solitude and subjective well-being using the revised scale.

Research Design and Methods

We conducted an Internet survey with 210 older adults in Study 1 to develop a revised Japanese scale. In Study 2, to address the possible research method bias in Study 1, we conducted a mail survey with 276 older adults. We examined the replicability of Study 1, confirming metric invariance through multigroup analysis and hypothesis model through path analysis.

Results

The results of the path analysis indicated that “Productivity during solitude” (Factor 3) was positively related with positive affect and life satisfaction, and “Enjoyment of solitude” (Factor 2) was negatively related with negative affect. However, the results of the mediation analysis suggested that preference for solitude was also related to loneliness, and the indirect effect of preference for solitude on well-being was negative.

Discussion and Implications

“Enjoyment of solitude” and “Productivity during solitude” were related to maintaining subjective well-being among older adults, although the effects were marginal. The impact of preference for solitude was mixed in enhancing and decreasing subjective well-being.
Composition and Stability of the Vaginal Microbiota of Pregnant Women With Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Hill Janet E , Peña-Sánchez Juan-Nicolás , Fernando Champika , Freitas Aline C , Withana Gamage Niradha , Fowler Sharyle
Published: December 2021

Background

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is common in women of childbearing years, and active IBD during pregnancy is associated with increased rates of preterm delivery and low-birth-weight newborns. Changes in the vaginal microbiome have been associated with preterm delivery. We aimed to determine the taxonomic composition of the vaginal microbiota at 3 time points during pregnancy in a population of women with IBD.

Methods

Participants were recruited from the patient registry of the Preconception and Pregnancy IBD Clinic at Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon, Canada. Self-collected vaginal swabs were obtained from patients at each trimester. Microbiota profiles were created by cpn60 amplicon sequencing.

Results

We characterized the vaginal microbiota of 32 pregnant participants with IBD (33 pregnancies) during each trimester. A total of 32 of 33 pregnancies resulted in a live birth with 43.8% (n = 14 of 32, 2 missing) by caesarean section; 2 of 32 were preterm. Microbiota compositions corresponded to previously described community state types, with most participants having microbiota dominated by Lactobacillus crispatus. In 25 of 29 participants in which samples were available for more than 1 time point, there was no change in the community state type over time. Prevalence of Mollicutes (Mycoplasma and/or Ureaplasma) was significantly higher in pregnant participants with IBD than in a previously profiled cohort of 172 pregnant women without IBD who delivered at term.

Conclusions

The vaginal microbiome of participants with IBD was stable throughout pregnancy. Prevalence of Mollicutes, which has been associated with preterm delivery, warrants further study in this patient group.
Intake, ruminal fermentation parameters, and apparent total-tract digestibility by beef steers consuming Pensacola bahiagrass hay treated with calcium oxide
Authors: Ciriaco Francine M , Henry Darren D , Schulmeister Tessa M , Sanford Carla D , Canal Luara B , Fontes Pedro L P , Oosthuizen Nicola , Dubeux Jose C B , Lamb G Cliff , DiLorenzo Nicolas
Published: December 2021

To determine the effect of CaO-treated Pensacola bahiagrass (Paspalum notatum) hay on intake, ruminal fermentation parameters, and apparent total-tract digestibility of nutrients, nine ruminally cannulated Angus-crossbred steers were used in a triplicated 3 × 3 Latin square design. Steers had ad libitum access to either 1) untreated dry hay (DH; n = 8); 2) hay at 50% DM treated with 8.9% CaCO3 (dry matter [DM] basis; CC; n = 9); or 3) hay at 50% DM treated with 5% CaO (DM basis; CO; n = 8). Water was added to reach 50% DM in the CC and CO diets. Ruminal fluid and blood samples were collected every 3 h for 24 h. Ruminal fluid was analyzed for pH, volatile fatty acids (VFA), and ammonia-nitrogen (NH3-N). Blood was analyzed for plasma urea nitrogen (PUN). Hay and fecal samples were collected for 4 d, four times daily for hay and twice daily for feces, to determine apparent total-tract digestibility of nutrients. The hay provided to steers during the digestibility period was analyzed for in vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD) for 48 h. Data were analyzed as repeated measures for blood and ruminal fermentation parameters. Total DM intake was not affected (P ≥ 0.674) by treatment. A treatment effect (P < 0.001) was observed for average ruminal pH, where steers consuming CO had the greatest pH (P < 0.001). Ruminal concentration of NH3-N tended (P = 0.059) to be reduced in steers consuming CO. There was a treatment × time interaction (P = 0.023) on concentrations of PUN, where at 3 h DH and CO were lesser than CC (P ≤ 0.050) and at 21 h DH was lesser than CC (P = 0.020). Total VFA, acetate, propionate, butyrate, branched-chain VFA, and valerate concentrations were affected by treatment (P ≤ 0.035), where a reduction (P ≤ 0.034) occurred in steers consuming CO. No treatment differences were observed for total-tract digestibility of DM (P = 0.186), organic matter (P = 0.169), or crude protein (P = 0.152); however, steers consuming DH had greater neutral detergent fiber (P = 0.038) than CC and tended to be greater than CO (P = 0.082). The CO hay had greater (P = 0.005) IVOMD compared with DH and tended (P = 0.100) to be greater than CC. Bahiagrass hay treated with CaO may reduce ruminal fermentation, as indicated by decreased total VFA concentration without altering DM intake. The addition of CaO did not improve the digestibility of bahiagrass hay in vivo; however, in vitro results are contradictory and warrant further elucidation.
Development of Azalea Lace Bug, Stephanitis pyrioides, on Susceptible and Resistant Rhododendron species in Western Washington
Authors: Garrison Ryan R , Tobin Patrick C
Published: December 2021

The invasive azalea lace bug, Stephanitis pyrioides (Scott) (Tingidae: Hemiptera), is an important pest of Rhododendron (L.) (Ericales: Ericaceae). Feeding by nymphs and adults removes chlorophyll, reduces rates of photosynthesis and transpiration, and causes leaf stippling, which reduces the aesthetic value of infested plants. Rhododendron spp. are a major component of landscapes in the Pacific Northwest. Previous studies on the seasonality of S. pyrioides in North America are largely from the southeastern United States, which could have limited applicability in the Pacific Northwest. To quantify S. pyrioides seasonality in western Washington, we sampled ~200 leaves from 18 Rhododendron plants 1–2 times per wk from April to October over 2 yr, and microscopically counted the number of eggs, early instars, late instars, and adults. We developed a degree-day model for first generation S. pyrioides, which we used to estimate that S. pyrioides undergoes two full and a partial third generation in western Washington. Our model estimates 5 and 50% early instar occurrence, after hatching from overwintering eggs, at 69 and 171 accumulated degree-days from 1 January, respectively, when using a base threshold of 10.2°, which can be used to optimize the timing of management decisions. We also observed faster development and adult emergence when S. pyrioides nymphs feed on susceptible host plants relative to more resistant host plants, which may influence the timing of management decisions and potentially increase the probability of a full third generation. This research enhances our knowledge of an emerging invasive species in the Pacific Northwest.
Integrative analysis ofMazama temama(Artiodactyla: Cervidae) and designation of a neotype for the species
Authors: Sandoval Eluzai Dinai Pinto , Rola Luciana Diniz , Morales-Donoso Jorge Alfonso , Gallina Sonia , Reyna-Hurtado Rafael , Duarte José Maurício Barbanti
Published: December 2021

Mazama temama is the smallest red deer in Central America. It was one of the first species described for the genus, and until the end of the last century many authors considered it as a subspecies of Mazama americana due to morphological similarities. Cytogenetic studies of animals in captivity have shown different karyotypes that led to its recognition as a unique species, and phylogenetic studies sustained the monophyly of the species, with some inconsistencies due to its wide geographical distribution. The objectives of the study were to characterize a topotype of Veracruz and three other specimens from a Campeche locality, to complement the description of M. temama and to propose a neotype for the species. We described this species morphologically (cranial measurements, skin color, and body biometry), and obtained karyorypes from wild animals with known origins for cytogenetic analyses (C band, G band, Ag-NOR, and Giemsa staining). We also performed phylogenetic analyses of Cytb, D-loop, COI, and ND5 mitochondrial genes. The morphometric results separated M. temama from M. americana but not from the other small Mazama species. The phylogenetic trees of mitochondrial genes Cytb, COI, and ND5 corroborated the monophyly of the species with 100% of posterior probability. The topotype’s karyotype is significantly different from the one previously described for the species, and the other specimens from Campeche have karyotype variants whose chromosomal rearrangements are possibly the beginning of a reproductive isolation mechanism. We discussed the possibility to have more than one species of red brocket deer in Mexico and Central America.
Prevalence of Oral Human Papillomavirus Infection by Number of Vaccine Doses Among US Adults
Authors: Abel Mary Kathryn , Mann Amandeep K , Sonawane Kalyani , Kapp Daniel S , Deshmukh Ashish A , Chan John K
Published: December 2021

The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is effective at reducing the incidence of cervical cancer caused by HPV. Studies have shown that 1 dose of the HPV vaccine offers comparable protection against genital HPV infection as additional doses; however, it is unknown whether oral HPV prevalence also differs by number of vaccine doses. We examined differences in prevalence of oral HPV by number of doses using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2009 to 2016. The prevalence of HPV 6, 11, 16, and 18 infections was statistically significantly lower in individuals who received 1 dose (0.3%, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.0% to 0.9%) or 2-3 doses (0.4%, 95% CI = 0.0% to 1.2%) compared with unvaccinated individuals (1.2%, 95% CI = 0.9% to 1.6%). Smokers, individuals who initiated oral sex at age 17 years or younger, and those with more than 2 oral sexual partners had higher rates of oral HPV infection. Ongoing prospective studies are essential to further evaluate the efficacy of a single-dose regimen for prevention of oral HPV.
Trends in Opioid Use Among Cancer Patients in the United States: 2013-2018
Authors: Chen Yingxi , Spillane Susan , Shiels Meredith S , Young Lauren , Quach David , Berrington de González Amy , Freedman Neal D
Published: December 2021

Background

In response to the US opioid epidemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated their guideline on prescription opioids for chronic pain management in March 2016. The aim of this study was to provide detailed analysis of trends in opioid claims among cancer patients in the United States during 2013-2018.

Methods

We analyzed pharmaceutical dispensing data from Symphony Health’s Integrated Dataverse database, which covers approximately 80% of the US population. We examined annual trends in dispensed opioids in cancer patients during 2013-2018. We examined quarterly trends of the prevalence, mean number of days, and dose (stated as morphine milligram equivalents) of opioid dispensing in cancer patients.

Results

Dispensing records of an average of over 3.7 million cancer patients contributed to the study annually in 2013-2018. The annual prevalence of opioid dispensing claims declined from 40.2% in 2013 to 34.5% in 2018. Annual declines occurred across cancer sites, and particularly among patients with metastatic cancer (decline of 19.8%), breast cancer (18.2%), and lung cancer (13.8%). By quarter, the prevalence of opioid claims declined statistically significantly from 26.6% in Q1 2013 to 21.2% in Q4 2018; this decline was more pronounced after Q3 2016 (2-sided P = .004). Both quarterly trends in mean days and morphine milligram equivalents of opioids supplied showed a gradual decline from 2013 to 2018, with a slightly larger decline after 2016.

Conclusions

We observed a decline in opioid use among cancer patients, particularly after 2016, coinciding with the publication of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guideline on prescription opioids for chronic pain management.
Freshwater gastropod richness patterns along an urbanization gradient in tropical India
Authors: Kulkarni Mihir R , Bagade Akash , Padhye Sameer M
Published: December 2021

Data on the urbanization impact on freshwater biota and ecosystem function are limited from many developing countries despite being recognized as a driver for biodiversity loss. To study these impacts, we analysed the species richness and diversity patterns of freshwater gastropods along a gradient of urbanization in a river system around Pune city, India. We observed a significant reduction in species richness, faunal similarity and an increased proportion of non-native species with increasing urbanization. These impacts were prominent in highly urbanized sites of the rivers suggesting biotic homogenization. Our results underscore the great impacts of urbanization on freshwater biota, highlighting the need for further studies in developing regions.
Planets or asteroids? A geochemical method to constrain the masses of White Dwarf pollutants
Authors: Buchan Andrew M , Bonsor Amy , Shorttle Oliver , Wade Jon , Harrison John , Noack Lena , Koester Detlev
Published: December 2021

Polluted white dwarfs that have accreted planetary material provide a unique opportunity to probe the geology of exoplanetary systems. However, the nature of the bodies that pollute white dwarfs is not well understood: are they small asteroids, minor planets, or even terrestrial planets? We present a novel method to infer pollutant masses from detections of Ni, Cr, and Si. During core–mantle differentiation, these elements exhibit variable preference for metal and silicate at different pressures (i.e. object masses), affecting their abundances in the core and mantle. We model core–mantle differentiation self-consistently using data from metal–silicate partitioning experiments. We place statistical constraints on the differentiation pressures, and hence masses, of bodies which pollute white dwarfs by incorporating this calculation into a Bayesian framework. We show that Ni observations are best suited to constraining pressure when pollution is mantle-like, while Cr and Si are better for core-like pollution. We find three systems (WD0449-259, WD1350-162, and WD2105-820) whose abundances are best explained by the accretion of fragments of small parent bodies (<0.2 M⊕). For two systems (GD61 and WD0446-255), the best model suggests the accretion of fragments of Earth-sized bodies, although the observed abundances remain consistent (<3σ) with the accretion of undifferentiated material. This suggests that polluted white dwarfs potentially accrete planetary bodies of a range of masses. However, our results are subject to inevitable degeneracies and limitations given current data. To constrain pressure more confidently, we require serendipitous observation of (nearly) pure core and/or mantle material.
Catching a grown-up starfish planetary nebula – II. Plasma analysis and central star properties of PC 22
Authors: Sabin L , Gómez-Llanos V , Morisset C , Gómez-González V M A , Guerrero M A , Todt H , Fang X
Published: December 2021

After performing the morpho-kinematic analysis of the planetary nebula (PN) PC 22, we now present its nebular and stellar analysis. The plasma investigation relies on the novel use of a Monte Carlo analysis associated with the pyneb code for the uncertainty propagation. The innermost region of the nebula shows electronic temperatures Te ≈ 10 800 K using [N ii] and ≈13 000 K using [O iii] and electronic densities ne ≈ 600 cm−3. We also used for the first time a machine learning algorithm to calculate ionization correction factors (ICFs) specifically adapted to PC 22. This has allowed us to have pioneer ICFs for (S+ + S++)/O++, Cl++/O++, and Ar3+ + Ar4+, as well as a possible new determination for the total abundance of neon. The study of the stellar spectrum revealed the presence of broad emission lines consistent with a Wolf–Rayet-type [WR] classification and more precisely a [WO1] subtype based on different qualitative and quantitative criteria. This classification is also coherent with the high stellar temperature derived from the reproduction of the ionization state of the gas with the Mexican Million Models data base (3MdB) and the best-fitting model obtained with the NLTE model atmosphere code PoWR. PC 22 is therefore a new addition to the [WO1]-subtype PNe.
Dynamical tides in eccentric binaries containing massive main-sequence stars: analytical expressions
Authors: Su Yubo , Lai Dong
Published: December 2021

Tidal evolution of eccentric binary systems containing at least one massive main-sequence (MS) star plays an important role in the formation scenarios of merging compact-object binaries. The dominant dissipation mechanism in such systems involves tidal excitation of outgoing internal gravity waves at the convective-radiative boundary and dissipation of the waves at the stellar envelope/surface. We have derived analytical expressions for the tidal torque and tidal energy transfer rate in such binaries for arbitrary orbital eccentricities and stellar rotation rates. These expressions can be used to study the spin and orbital evolution of eccentric binaries containing massive MS stars, such as the progenitors of merging neutron star binaries. Applying our results to the PSR J0045-7319 system, which has a massive B-star companion and an observed, rapidly decaying orbit, we find that for the standard radius of convective core based on non-rotating stellar models, the B-star must have a significant retrograde and differential rotation in order to explain the observed orbital decay rate. Alternatively, we suggest that the convective core may be larger as a result of rapid stellar rotation and/or mass transfer to the B-star in the recent past during the post-MS evolution of the pulsar progenitor.
Transitioning from paediatric to adult rheumatological healthcare: English summary of the Japanese Transition Support Guide
Authors: Mori Masaaki , Akioka Shinji , Igarashi Toru , Inoue Yuzaburo , Umebayashi Hiroaki , Ohshima Shiro , Nishiyama Susumu , Hashimoto Motomu , Matsui Toshihiro , Miyamae Takako , Yasumi Takahiro
Published: December 2021

Issues related to transitioning from paediatric to adult healthcare are currently receiving international attention. In Japan, 1000 patients with childhood-onset chronic rheumatological diseases reach adulthood every year and require transition from care by paediatric to care by adult rheumatologists. Here, we propose a guide for the latter, wherein the adult caregiver poses the clinical questions about transitional support that they need to have answered, and the paediatric caregiver mainly compiles the plans for the transition. To formulate the guide, we sought comments from both the Japan College of Rheumatology and the Pediatric Rheumatology Association of Japan and obtained their approval. Here, we present the outcome of this consultation in the form of a Guide for Supporting Transitional Care, aiming to provide essential knowledge to physicians in the fields of adult internal medicine and orthopaedics who may be involved in treating patients with rheumatic disease during the transition from paediatric to adult care. The features of transitional support that are common for patients with various different rheumatic diseases are presented in this guide, with the aim of informing policy and strategies to deliver optimal outcomes in transitional care by non-paediatric rheumatologists.
Factors associated with bone erosion in patients with gout: A dual-energy gemstone spectral imaging computed tomography study
Authors: Liu Xiaofei , Li Baige , Zhang Xiaohuan , Mo Shiyan , Liang Dongfeng , Zhu Jian
Published: December 2021

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the factors influencing bone erosion (BE) in patients with gout using dual-energy gemstone spectral imaging computer tomography.

Methods

We compared the clinical data, laboratory indices, and tissue urate levels at the monosodium urate (MSU) bone interface measured by dual-energy gemstone spectral imaging computed tomography of 87 gout patients with (n = 41) and without (n = 46) BE. Logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the risk factors associated with BE.

Results

In total, 47.1% of patients with gout had BE. The disease duration, serum uric acid, tissue urate levels, and the presence of tophi were significantly higher (p < .05) in gout patients with BE than in those without BE. Longer disease duration (odds ratio = 1.11, 95% confidence interval: 1.00–1.24, p < .05) and increased tissue urate levels (odds ratio = 1.01, 95% confidence interval: 1.00–1.02, p < .05) were independently associated with BE. Tissue urate levels at the MSU-bone interface were correlated with the presence of tophi (r = 0.62, p < .001), BE (r = 0.51, p < .001), renal calculus (r = 0.24, p = .03), and serum uric acid levels (r = 0.23, p = .03).

Conclusions

This study found that longer disease duration and elevated tissue urate concentrations at the MSU-bone interface were associated with BE in patients with gout.
Long-term safety and efficacy of belimumab in Japanese patients with SLE: A 7-year open-label continuation study
Authors: Tanaka Yoshiya , Curtis Paula , DeRose Kathleen , Kurrasch Regina , Kinoshita Kyoko , Tanaka Rika , Yamazaki Yumi , Roth David A
Published: December 2021

Objectives

Evaluate long-term safety, tolerability, and efficacy of belimumab in Japanese patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

This was a subgroup analysis of Japanese patients who completed studies BEL113750 or BEL112341 and were enrolled in a Phase 3, open-label extension study (BEL114333; NCT01597622). Eligible patients received intravenous belimumab 10 mg/kg every 28 days for ≤7 years. Primary endpoint: safety and tolerability. Secondary endpoints included SLE Responder Index (SRI)-4 response rate, SRI-4 components, severe SLE flare, and use of corticosteroids/other SLE-related treatments. Analyses were based on observed data from first belimumab dose received in either parent or current study through to study end.

Results

Of 71 Japanese patients enrolled, 69.0% completed the study. Overall, 98.6% patients had adverse events (AEs); 32.4% had serious AEs. The proportion of SRI-4 responders increased progressively (Year 1, Week 24: 40.9% [27/66]; Year 7, Week 48: 84.6% [11/13]) as did the proportion of Safety of Estrogens in Lupus Erythematosus National Assessment-SLE Disease Activity Index responders. The proportion of patients with no worsening in PGA (91.2–100.0%) and no new organ damage (92.6–100.0%) remained stable over time. Severe SLE flare was experienced by 11.3% (8/71) of patients. Corticosteroid and immunosuppressant use decreased over time.

Conclusions

Favourable safety profile and treatment responses with belimumab were maintained for ≤7 years in Japanese patients with SLE.
Losing sleep by staying up late leads adolescents to consume more carbohydrates and a higher glycemic load
Authors: Duraccio Kara McRae , Whitacre Catharine , Krietsch Kendra N , Zhang Nanhua , Summer Suzanne , Price Morgan , Saelens Brian E , Beebe Dean W
Published: December 2021

This study examined how short sleep impacts dietary consumption in adolescents by testing whether experimentally shortening sleep influences the amount, macronutrient content, food types, and timing of food consumed. Ninety-three adolescents completed a within-subjects crossover paradigm comparing five nights of short sleep (6.5-hour sleep opportunity) to five nights of Healthy Sleep (9.5-hour sleep opportunity). Within each condition, adolescents completed three multiple-pass dietary recalls that recorded the types, amount, and timing of food intake. The following outcomes were averaged across days of dietary recall within condition: kilocalories, grams of carbohydrates, fat, protein, and added sugars, glycemic load of foods, and servings of specific types of foods (low-calorie drinks, sweetened drinks, fruits/vegetables, meats/proteins, processed snacks, “fast food” entrees, grains, and sweets/desserts). Timing of consumption of kilocalorie and macronutrient outcomes were also examined across four noncumulative time bins: 06:00–10:59, 11:00–15:59, 16:00–20:59, and 21:00–01:00. Adolescents slept 2 h and 20 min longer in Healthy Sleep than in Short Sleep (p < .0001). While in Short Sleep, adolescents ate more grams of carbohydrates (p = .031) and added sugars (p = .047), foods higher in glycemic load (p = .013), and servings of sweet drinks (p = .023) and ate fewer servings of fruits/vegetables (p = .006) compared to Healthy Sleep. Differences in consumption of kilocalories, fat, and carbohydrates emerged after 9:00 pm (ps = .012, .043, .006, respectively). These experimental findings suggest that adolescents who have insufficient sleep exhibit dietary patterns that may increase the risk for negative weight and cardiometabolic outcomes. Future health promotion efforts should include promoting optimal sleep to increase healthy dietary habits.
Stimulus-Induced Narrowband Gamma Oscillations are Test–Retest Reliable in Human EEG
Authors: Kumar Wupadrasta Santosh , Manikandan Keerthana , Murty Dinavahi V P S , Ramesh Ranjini Garani , Purokayastha Simran , Javali Mahendra , Rao Naren Prahalada , Ray Supratim
Published: December 2021

Visual stimulus-induced gamma oscillations in electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings have been recently shown to be compromised in subjects with preclinical Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), suggesting that gamma could be an inexpensive biomarker for AD diagnosis provided its characteristics remain consistent across multiple recordings. Previous magnetoencephalography studies in young subjects have reported consistent gamma power over recordings separated by a few weeks to months. Here, we assessed the consistency of stimulus-induced slow (20–35 Hz) and fast gamma (36–66 Hz) oscillations in subjects (n = 40) (age: 50–88 years) in EEG recordings separated by a year, and tested the consistency in the magnitude of gamma power, its temporal evolution and spectral profile. Gamma had distinct spectral/temporal characteristics across subjects, which remained consistent across recordings (average intraclass correlation of ~0.7). Alpha (8–12 Hz) and steady-state-visually evoked-potentials were also reliable. We further tested how EEG features can be used to identify 2 recordings as belonging to the same versus different subjects and found high classifier performance (AUC of ~0.89), with temporal evolution of slow gamma and spectral profile being most informative. These results suggest that EEG gamma oscillations are reliable across sessions separated over long durations and can also be a potential tool for subject identification.
Comparison stone-free rate and effects on quality of life of percutaneous nephrolithotomy and retrograde intrarenal surgery for treatment of renal pelvis stone (2-4 cm): A prospective controlled study
Authors: Ucer Oktay , Erbatu Oguzcan , Albaz Ali Can , Temeltas Gokhan , Gumus Bilal , Muezzinoglu Talha
Published: December 2021

Objectives:

The aim of our study was to compare the effects on quality of life (QoL) and stone-free rate (SFR) of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL) and retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) in patients with renal stones 2-4cm.

Materials and methods:

A total of 102 patients with renal pelvis stones were enrolled in this prospective controlled study, of which 52 were performed RIRS and 50 with PNL. The QoL was evaluated by using Short From-36 pre- and post-operatively. Also, the surgical data of all patients during and after the operations were compared between the 2 groups.

Results:

The mean age, body mass index, stone size and density of the patients in the 2 groups were statistically similar (p > 0.05). The SFR of PNL and RIRS were found 94% (47/50) and 73% (38/52), respectively (p < 0.01). There were no statistically differences between operation times, minor complication rates and Short From-36 scores of the 2 groups. Hospitalization times were 1.13 ± 0.34days for RIRS and 2.9 ± 5.7days for PNL (p < 0.05). While the blood transfusion rate of PNL group was 8% (4/50), none patient was made blood transfusion in RIRS.

Conclusions:

The results of our study show that the blood transfusion rates and hospitalization times of RIRS group are significantly lower than PNL for management of renal pelvis stone 2-4cm. Despite these advantages of RIRS, the SFR is significantly lower than PNL for these stones. The effects on QoL of the both interventions before and after surgery were similar.
Spontaneous Tissue Expander Migration in an Irradiated Field: A Case Report
Authors: Bandelac Lucie , Shah Kaanan D. , Chung Susan
Published: December 2021

A 59-year-old woman with a history of bilateral breast cancer, bilateral mastectomy, and bilateral latissimus dorsi flap reconstruction with tissue expanders, before expansion, developed spontaneous unilateral tissue expander migration on the side that had been irradiated. During the operation to return the migrated tissue expander to the chest, the expander was found at the back with a seroma. The chest pocket had collapsed, and a subcutaneous tunnel inferior to the flap inset was encountered, indicating the path of migration. To our knowledge, this is the first case reported of spontaneous tissue expander dislodgement to the donor site. This case is unique in that the patient had bilateral procedures but developed tissue expander migration only on the irradiated side. This highlights the need during pocket creation to account for the fibrosis caused by radiation that can create a constricted pocket promoting migration.
Health Care Disparities in the COVID-19 Pandemic in the United States: A Focus on Obstetrics
Authors: Emeruwa Ukachi N. , Gyamfi-Bannerman Cynthia , Miller Russell S.
Published: December 2021

The influence of social determinants of health on disease dynamics and outcomes has become increasingly clear, making them a prime target of investigation and mitigation efforts. The obstetric population is uniquely positioned to provide insight into the health inequities exacerbated by the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic given their susceptibility to infectious disease morbidity and frequent interactions with the health care system, which provide opportunities for ascertainment of disease incidence and severity. This review summarizes the data on disparities identified in the US obstetric population during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic as they relate to race and ethnicity, built environment, insurance status, language, and immigration status.