bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiple indicators of gut dysbiosis predict all-cause and cause-specific mortality in solid organ transplant recipients
Authors: Swarte J Casper , Zhang Shuyan , Nieuwenhuis Lianne M , Gacesa Ranko , Knobbe Tim J ,   TransplantLines Investigators, De Meijer Vincent E , Damman Kevin , Verschuuren Erik A M , Gan Tji C , Fu Jingyuan , Zhernakova Alexandra , Harmsen Hermie J M , Blokzijl Hans , Bakker Stephan J L , Björk Johannes R , Weersma Rinse K
Published: July 2024

Objective

Gut microbiome composition is associated with multiple diseases, but relatively little is known about its relationship with long-term outcome measures. While gut dysbiosis has been linked to mortality risk in the general population, the relationship with overall survival in specific diseases has not been extensively studied. In the current study, we present results from an in-depth analysis of the relationship between gut dysbiosis and all-cause and cause-specific mortality in the setting of solid organ transplant recipients (SOTR).

Design

We analysed 1337 metagenomes derived from faecal samples of 766 kidney, 334 liver, 170 lung and 67 heart transplant recipients part of the TransplantLines Biobank and Cohort—a prospective cohort study including extensive phenotype data with 6.5 years of follow-up. To analyze gut dysbiosis, we included an additional 8208 metagenomes from the general population of the same geographical area (northern Netherlands). Multivariable Cox regression and a machine learning algorithm were used to analyse the association between multiple indicators of gut dysbiosis, including individual species abundances, and all-cause and cause-specific mortality.

Results

We identified two patterns representing overall microbiome community variation that were associated with both all-cause and cause-specific mortality. The gut microbiome distance between each transplantation recipient to the average of the general population was associated with all-cause mortality and death from infection, malignancy and cardiovascular disease. A multivariable Cox regression on individual species abundances identified 23 bacterial species that were associated with all-cause mortality, and by applying a machine learning algorithm, we identified a balance (a type of log-ratio) consisting of 19 out of the 23 species that were associated with all-cause mortality.

Conclusion

Gut dysbiosis is consistently associated with mortality in SOTR. Our results support the observations that gut dysbiosis is associated with long-term survival. Since our data do not allow us to infer causality, more preclinical research is needed to understand mechanisms before we can determine whether gut microbiome-directed therapies may be designed to improve long-term outcomes.
Integrated metagenomic and metabolomic analysis reveals distinctive stage-specific gut-microbiome-derived metabolites in intracranial aneurysms
Authors: Sun Haitao , Sun Kaijian , Tian Hao , Chen Xiheng , Su Shixing , Tu Yi , Chen Shilan , Wang Jiaxuan , Peng Meichang , Zeng Meiqin , Li Xin , Luo Yunhao , Xie Yugu , Feng Xin , Li Zhuang , Zhang Xin , Li Xifeng , Liu Yanchao , Ye Wei , Chen Zhengrui , Zhu Zhaohua , Li Youxiang , Xia Fangbo , Zhou Hongwei , Duan Chuanzhi
Published: July 2024

Objective

Our study aimed to explore the influence of gut microbiota and their metabolites on intracranial aneurysms (IA) progression and pinpoint-related metabolic biomarkers derived from the gut microbiome.

Design

We recruited 358 patients with unruptured IA (UIA) and 161 with ruptured IA (RIA) from two distinct geographical regions for conducting an integrated analysis of plasma metabolomics and faecal metagenomics. Machine learning algorithms were employed to develop a classifier model, subsequently validated in an independent cohort. Mouse models of IA were established to verify the potential role of the specific metabolite identified.

Results

Distinct shifts in taxonomic and functional profiles of gut microbiota and their related metabolites were observed in different IA stages. Notably, tryptophan metabolites, particularly indoxyl sulfate (IS), were significantly higher in plasma of RIA. Meanwhile, upregulated tryptophanase expression and indole-producing microbiota were observed in gut microbiome of RIA. A model harnessing gut-microbiome-derived tryptophan metabolites demonstrated remarkable efficacy in distinguishing RIA from UIA patients in the validation cohort (AUC=0.97). Gut microbiota depletion by antibiotics decreased plasma IS concentration, reduced IA formation and rupture in mice, and downregulated matrix metalloproteinase-9 expression in aneurysmal walls with elastin degradation reduction. Supplement of IS reversed the effect of gut microbiota depletion.

Conclusion

Our investigation highlights the potential of gut-microbiome-derived tryptophan metabolites as biomarkers for distinguishing RIA from UIA patients. The findings suggest a novel pathogenic role for gut-microbiome-derived IS in elastin degradation in the IA wall leading to the rupture of IA.
Arterial aneurysm and dissection: toward the evolving phenotype of Tatton-Brown-Rahman syndrome
Authors: Totten Vicken , Teixido-Tura Gisela , Lopez-Grondona Fermina , Fernandez-Alvarez Paula , Lasa-Aranzasti Amaia , Muñoz-Cabello Patricia , Kosaki Rika , Tizzano Eduardo F , Dewals Wendy , Borràs Emma , Cañas Elena Gonzalez , Almoguera Berta , Loeys Bart , Valenzuena Irene
Published: July 2024

Background

Tatton-Brown-Rahman syndrome (TBRS) is a rare disorder, caused byDNMT3Aheterozygous pathogenic variants, and first described in 2014. TBRS is characterised by overgrowth, intellectual disability, facial dysmorphism, hypotonia and musculoskeletal features, as well as neurological and psychiatric features. Cardiac manifestations have also been reported, mainly congenital malformations such as atrial septal defect, ventricular septal defect and cardiac valvular disease. Aortic dilatation has rarely been described.

Methods

Here we have undertaken a detailed clinical and molecular description of eight previously unreported individuals, who had TBRS and arterial dilatation and/or dissection, mainly thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA). We have also reviewed the seven previously published cases of TAA in individuals with TBRS to try to better delineate the vascular phenotype and to determine specific follow-up for this condition.

Results

We include eight new patients with TBRS who presented with arterial aneurysms mainly involving aorta. Three of these patients presented with dissection that required critical surgery.

Conclusions

Arterial aneurysms and dissections are a potentially lethal, age-dependent manifestation. The prevalence of aortic disease in individuals with TBRS is far in excess of that expected in the general population. This cohort, together with individuals previously published, illustrates the importance to consider dilatation/dissection, mainly in aorta but also in other arteries. Arterial vascular weakness may therefore also be a cardinal feature of TBRS and vascular surveillance is recommended.
Pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis: genetic, environmental and random mechanisms
Authors: Goodin Douglas S
Published: July 2024

Background

The pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS) requires both genetic factors and environmental events. The question remains, however, whether these factors and events completely describe the MS disease process. This question was addressed using the Canadian MS data, which includes 29 478 individuals, estimated to represent 65–83% of all Canadian patients with MS.

Method

The ‘genetically-susceptible’ subset of the population, (G), includes everyone who has any non-zero life-time chance of developing MS, under some environmental conditions. A ‘sufficient’ environmental exposure, for any genetically-susceptible individual, includes every set of environmental conditions, each of which is ‘sufficient’, by itself, tocauseMS in that person. This analysis incorporates many epidemiological parameters, involved in MS pathogenesis, only some of which are directly observable, and establishes ‘plausible’ value ranges for each parameter. Those parameter value combinations (ie, solutions) that fall within these plausible ranges are then determined.

Results

Only a small proportion of the population (≤52%) has any possibility of developing MS, regardless of any environmental conditions that they could experience. Moreover, some of these genetically-susceptible individuals, despite their experiencing a ‘sufficient’ environmental exposure, will still not develop disease.

Conclusions

This analysis explicitly includes all of those genetic factors and environmental events (including their interactions), which are necessary for MS pathogenesis, regardless of whether these factors, events and interactions are known, suspected or as yet unrecognised. Nevertheless, in addition, a ‘truly’ random mechanism also seems to play a critical role in disease pathogenesis. This observation provides empirical evidence, which undermines the widely-held deterministic view of nature. Moreover, both sexes seem to share a similar genetic and environmental disease basis. If so, then it is this random mechanism, which is primarily responsible for the currently-observed differences in MS disease expression betweensusceptible womenandsusceptible men.
Awareness of chronic hepatitis B and C in men who have sex with men in Belgium: epidemiological survey and on-site screening
Authors: Coessens Marie , Schouten Jeoffrey , Holvoet Tom , Verlinden Wim
Published: July 2024

Objectives

To eliminate hepatitis B and C virus (HBV/HCV) as a public health threat by 2030, the WHO focuses on screening key populations, including men who have sex with men (MSM).

This study aims to assess HBV and HCV knowledge and awareness and HCV prevalence in MSM in Belgium.

Methods

First, a questionnaire was designed to assess MSM's knowledge of HBV and HCV infection (disease process, vaccination, treatment and transmission routes). This questionnaire was conducted online, and by means of a tablet-based face-to-face questionnaire at the Antwerp and Belgian Pride. Second, HCV and HIV prevalence data were collected during outreach projects and office screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) organised by Sensoa and Exaequo, a Flemish and Walloon sexual health organisation.

Results

300 MSM completed the questionnaire (median age 36 years; 7.7% HIV+). Mean overall survey scores were low (HBV: 41.1%; HCV: 39.8%). Few participants identified all transmission routes correctly (HBV: 15%; HCV 1%).

The degree of education was significantly correlated with HBV knowledge and showed a trend towards correlation with HCV knowledge. HCV knowledge was significantly correlated with high-risk sexual behaviour.

The prevalence of HCV and HIV was 0.3% and 1.0%, respectively, in MSM attending commercial gay venues and 0% and 1.9% in MSM attending office STI screening.

Conclusions

Knowledge of HBV and HCV infection in MSM is poor. More awareness campaigns are needed, focusing on frequent HCV risk factors (group sex, chemsex, receptive fisting, and sharing of anal toys and anal douching devices), especially targeting low-educated MSM. HBV vaccination of MSM requires continued attention.

The prevalence of HCV and HIV was remarkably low in commercial gay venues and may be higher in older MSM or in subcultures where risk factors coexist (eg, chemsex). The cost-effectiveness of internet-based approaches with subsequent at-home testing needs to be evaluated in the future.
Comparison of shipping versus immediate freezer storage of vaginal samples for vaginal microbiota assessment
Authors: Tuddenham Susan , Gajer Pawel , Holm Johanna B , Brown Sarah Elizabeth , Forney Larry , Ravel Jacques , Ghanem Khalil G , Brotman Rebecca M
Published: July 2024

Objectives

We evaluated how storing vaginal samples at room temperature in stabilising solutions versus immediate freezing affects 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing-based microbiota studies, aiming to simplify home and field collection.

Methods

Twenty participants self-collected six mid-vaginal swabs that were stored in two nucleic acid preservatives (three in modified Solution C2 (Qiagen) and three in Amies/RNALater (Sigma)) in January-February 2016. From each set, two were immediately frozen (−80°C) and one was shipped to the University of Idaho (Moscow, Idaho) with return shipping to the Institute for Genome Sciences (Baltimore, Maryland). Amplicon sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene was used to characterise the vaginal microbiota, VALENCIA was used to assign community state types (CSTs), and quantitative PCR (qPCR) of 16S rRNA genes was used to estimate bacterial abundance. Cohen’s Kappa statistic was used to assess within-participant agreement. Bayesian difference of means models assessed within-participant comparisons between shipped and immediately frozen samples.

Results

There were 115 samples available for analysis. Average duration of transit for shipped samples was 8 days (SD: 1.60, range: 6–11). Within-participant comparisons of CSTs between shipped and immediately frozen samples revealed complete concordance (kappa: 1.0) for both preservative solutions. No significant differences comparing shipped and immediately frozen samples were found with taxon-level comparisons or bacterial abundances based on pan-bacterial qPCR.

Conclusions

Short-term room temperature shipping of vaginal swabs placed in stabilising solutions did not affect vaginal microbiota composition. Home collection with mail-in of vaginal samples may be a reasonable approach for research and clinical purposes to assess the vaginal microbiota.
Experimental investigation on mechanical behavior of natural soft clay by true triaxial tests
Authors: Xie Wenbo , Ye Guanlin , Zhang Qi , Zhu Wenxuan , Zhang Feng
Published: July 2024

Laboratory tests on undisturbed and remolded Shanghai clay were conducted with a novel mixed boundary true triaxial apparatus. The strength and deformation behaviors of the structured soft clay at different Lode angles were carefully investigated. The relationship between the shear stress ratio and the dilatancy ratio of the clay in three different stress spaces, that is p– q space, transformed stress (TS) space, and tij modified stress space, is discussed in detail. In particular, the influences of the stress path and the structure of nondisturbed clay on the strength, deformation, and failure criterion of Shanghai clay were quantitatively evaluated. The shear strength and dilatancy of undisturbed/remolded clay decreases with the increase of the Lode angle . It is also found that the shear strength and dilatancy of the undisturbed clay are larger than those of the remolded clay, while the influence of the structure on the dilatancy decreases with an increase in the Lode angle . In the π-plane, the maximum strength of Shanghai clay under different stress paths generally obeys the spatial mobilized plane failure criterion. The coincidence of the stress–dilatancy relationship given by the TS and tij stress spaces with the test results is much better than that given by p– q stress space. Furthermore, the linearity of the plastic potential curves of the undisturbed/remolded clay is more evident in tij stress space.
Co-creating Ethical Space in wildlife conservation: a case study of moose (Mooz; Alces alces) research and monitoring in the Robinson Huron Treaty region (Ontario, Canada)
Authors: Yarchuk Kathryn , Northrup Joseph , Menzies Allyson , Perron Nadine , Kemp Claire , Noganosh Samantha , Popp Jesse
Published: July 2024

The strengths of Indigenous Knowledges and need for reconciliation are increasingly recognized within conservation, leading to a rise in collaborative, cross-cultural research initiatives. As both a cultural keystone and important harvest species, moose are of value to both Indigenous and non-Indigenous Peoples, presenting an opportunity to pursue moose monitoring strategies that embrace the strengths of Indigenous and Western knowledges. While various frameworks provide theoretical direction on how to do so, few resources outline how to apply them in practice. Leaning on guidance of the Ethical Space framework, we explored the meaning and application of value-based approaches in the context of moose monitoring in central Ontario through semi-structured interviews with First Nation communities, the Ontario provincial crown government, and academic researchers. Collectively, 20 core values were identified to be important when bringing Indigenous and non-Indigenous partners together, coupled with a range of tangible actions necessary for fostering Ethical Space. Values and actions reflected three main themes: an emphasis on the long term, the importance of building and maintaining relationships, and the ability to evolve and adapt over time. Insights from this research provide tools and guidance for others interested in enacting Ethical Space in the context of cross-cultural wildlife monitoring and research.
Gravitons in a gravitational plane wave
Authors: Álvarez Enrique , Anero Jesús , Sánchez-Ruiz Irene
Published: July 2024

Gravitational plane waves (when Ricci flat) belong to the VSI family. The achronym VSI stands for vanishing scalar invariants, meaning that all scalar invariants built out of Riemann tensor and its derivatives vanish, although the Riemann tensor itself does not. In the particular case of plane waves many interesting phenomena have been uncovered for strings propagating in this background. Here we comment on gravitons propagating in such a spacetime.
ON THE FRACTAL DIMENSION OF A FRACTAL SURFACE WITH ONE SINGLE UNBOUNDED VARIATION POINT
Authors: GUO J. R. , LIANG Y. S.
Published: July 2024

In this paper, a surface with fractal characteristics on the basis of a continuous function has been constructed. We conducted a study on the Box dimension and the Hausdorff dimension of this surface, building upon this foundation. We found that there exists a certain relationship between the dimensionality of the surface with fractal characteristics, which is obtained from the rotation of a fractal curve.
KATUGAMPOLA FRACTIONAL PARAMETERIZED INEQUALITIES FOR S-CONVEX FUNCTION IN THE FOURTH SENSE
Authors: QI YONGFANG , LI GUOPING
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we present Katugampola fractional parameterized inequalities for s-convex function in the fourth sense. In the first place, with the help of integration by parts method, we provide a very important identity that will be of great significance for the next research. In addition, by comprehensively making use of some important concepts such as s-convex function in the fourth sense, Hölder’s integral inequality, and the well-known power-mean inequality, we establish three new parameterized inequalities. Finally, we provide some corollaries to help readers gain a deeper understanding of the theorems and the relevant theories.
The representation types of some tensor algebras
Authors: Liu Yu-Zhe , Zhang Yafeng , Liu Miantao
Published: July 2024

Let 𝕜 be an algebraically closed field and let [Formula: see text] be a finite-dimensional basic connected algebra over 𝕜. Let [Formula: see text] be a Nakayama hereditary algebra whose quiver is [Formula: see text]. We obtain a sufficient and necessary condition for the algebra [Formula: see text] is of finite-representation type.
Algebraic invariants of codes on weighted projective planes
Authors: Çakıroğlu Yağmur , Şahi̇n Mesut
Published: July 2024

Weighted projective spaces are natural generalizations of projective spaces with a rich structure. Projective Reed–Muller codes are error-correcting codes that played an important role in reliably transmitting information on digital communication channels. In this case study, we explore the power of commutative and homological algebraic techniques to study weighted projective Reed–Muller (WPRM) codes on weighted projective spaces of the form [Formula: see text]. We compute minimal free resolutions and thereby obtain Hilbert series for the vanishing ideal of the [Formula: see text]-rational points, and compute main parameters for these codes.
The probability that the product of three elements in a finite ring is zero
Authors: Sarma Dibyasman , Subedi Tikaram
Published: July 2024

Let [Formula: see text] be a finite commutative ring. In this paper, we consider the probability that the product of randomly chosen three elements of [Formula: see text] is zero, which we denote by [Formula: see text]. First we obtain bounds for [Formula: see text] for various classes of rings and then show that for any ring [Formula: see text] with identity [Formula: see text]. Finally, we characterize all commutative rings [Formula: see text] with identity with certain range of [Formula: see text].
Impact of particle creation in Rastall gravity
Authors: Bishi B. K. , Lepse P. V. , Beesham A.
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we investigate the Friedmann–Lemaitre–Robertson–Walker cosmological models within the framework of Rastall gravity incorporating particle creation. The modified field equations for Rastall gravity are derived and exact solutions are obtained under various assumptions of the scale factor. The qualitative behavior of our solutions depends on the Rastall coupling parameter [Formula: see text]. Following Akarsu et al. [Ö. Akarsu et al., Rastall gravity extension of the standard [Formula: see text] CDM model: Theoretical features and observational constraints, Eur. Phys. J. C 80 (2020) 1050], we have restricted the Rastall coupling parameter [Formula: see text] to the range [Formula: see text] at 68% CL from CMB+BAO data. Further, we have discussed the distinct physical behavior of the derived models in detail.
Revisiting the generalized virial theorem and its applications from the perspective of contact and cosymplectic geometry
Authors: Cariñena José F. , Muñoz-Lecanda Miguel C.
Published: July 2024

The generalization of the virial theorem, introduced by Clausius in statistical mechanics, has recently been carried out in the framework of geometric approaches to Hamiltonian and Lagrangian theories and it has been formulated in an intrinsic way. It is here revisited not only in its more general situation of a generic vector field but mainly from the perspective of contact and cosymplectic geometry. The previous generalizations allowing virial like relations from one-parameter groups of non-strictly canonical transformations and the rôle of Killing and conformal Killing vector fields for Lagrangians of a mechanical type are here completed with the theory for contact Hamiltonian, as well as gradient and evolution, vector fields. The corresponding theories in the framework of cosymplectic geometry and the particular case of time-dependent vector fields are also developed.
Donation after Circulatory Death Does Not Worsen Survival after Heart Transplant for Patients with a Durable Left Ventricular Assist Device
Authors: Schumer Erin M. , Choi Kukbin , Gouchoe Doug A. , Satija Divyaam , Rosenbaum Andrew N. , Kushwaha Sudhir , Behfar Atta , Villavicencio Mauricio A. , Spencer Philip J.
Published: July 2024

Heart transplantation from donors after circulatory death (DCD) has demonstrated increased primary graft dysfunction. Durable mechanical circulatory (MCS) recipients have slightly higher perioperative risk but excellent long‐term survival. We sought to determine if the use of DCD donors impacted outcomes for patients with MCS. The United Network for Organ Sharing database was queried from 2019 to 2023 for all adult recipients who underwent heart transplant with a durable left ventricular assist device (LVAD). Outcomes were compared for recipients of DBD and DCD donors. Kaplan–Meier analysis was used to compare survival. A total of 3449 recipients underwent heart transplant who met the study criteria. The number of DCD and DBD donors was 288 (8.4%) and 3161 (92.6%). There was no difference in the length of stay, postoperative dialysis, pacemaker, stroke rate, or in‐hospital mortality. Recipients with durable LVADs of DCD donors had a higher rate of treatment for rejection within the first year. Overall survival was not different between DBD and DCD donors (p = 0.153). Postoperative and survival outcomes for DCD donation remain similar between patients with and without MCS. These findings may help decrease waitlist time for patients with durable MCS.
The Worries of Out‐of‐Home Activities in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Survey Study During the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Fei Yun-Hui , Zhang Meng-Hui , Zhang Min-Na , Shen Zhao , Wang Hong-Gang
Published: July 2024

Background: Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) often experience worries related to travel due to frequent bowel movements. However, there is currently limited research focusing on the travel worries of patients with IBD. The aim of this study was to assess the level of worry regarding out‐of‐home activities in patients with IBD and identify factors associated with worry.

Methods: This study included patients with IBD who visited the outpatient clinics between September 2020 and March 2022, during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Participants completed a self‐designed questionnaire, providing general clinical data and indicating their level of worry for out‐of‐home activities.

Results: A total of 529 patients with IBD completed the questionnaire. Patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) had a higher proportion of individuals under 40 years old and males compared to patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). Regarding out‐of‐home activities, patients with UC expressed greater worry about going out and taking buses than patients with CD. However, there were no significant differences observed between the two groups in terms of travel worries and worries about finding public washrooms. A significant majority (85.4%) of patients with clinically active IBD expressed worries about not finding public washrooms when going out, while 46.7% of patients in clinical remission had similar worries. Moreover, the worry about finding public washrooms was higher in patients with UC compared to those with CD, both during the clinical activity and remission.

Conclusion: This survey conducted during the COVID‐19 pandemic reported worries among patients with IBD about out‐of‐home activities. The patients with clinically active IBD, especially UC, expressed worries about not finding public washrooms when going out. We highlight the actual psychological and quality of life challenges faced by patients with IBD.
A New Nomogram to Predict the Success of Shock Wave Lithotripsy in Ureteral Stones
Authors: Simsekoglu Muhammed Fatih , Derekoylu Engin , Ozkaya Mustafa , Demirbilek Muhammet , Aferin Ugur , Selcuk Berin , Erozenci Ahmet , Onal Bulent
Published: July 2024

Purpose. To design a new nomogram predicting the probability of stone‐free status of shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) in patients with ureteral stones. Materials and Methods. We retrospectively enrolled 2,144 patients with ureteral stones who underwent SWL between January 1993 and April 2020. The demographic and clinical parameters were assessed. The predictors of stone‐free status following SWL were identified. A logistic regression‐based nomogram was created by including the significant predictors in the multivariate analysis. Results. The mean age was 42.93 ± 13.85 in the stone‐free group (Group 1) and 46.51 ± 13.66 in the treatment‐failure group (Group 2) (p = 0.001). The cutoff value of the age was 45.5 years. The mean stone load was 0.71 ± 0.36 cm2 in Group 1 and 0.96 ± 0.51 cm2 in Group 2 (p = 0.001). Of the 2,144 patients, 1,708 (79.6%) were stone‐free within the first three SWL sessions. According to the multiple logistic regression analysis, older age, a stone load larger than 1 cm2, the presence of multiple stones, third‐generation lithotripter use, and pre‐SWL catheterization were statistically associated with low stone‐free rates. The C‐index was determined to be 0.75 in the bootstrapping method. Conclusion. A stone load larger than 1 cm2, age older than 45.5 years, the presence of multiple stones, new‐ (third‐) generation lithotripter use, and pre‐SWL catheterization had statistically significant effects on lower stone‐free rates in patients who underwent SWL due to ureteral stones. A nomogram was developed to predict the success of SWL. As a result of the internal validation of the nomogram, it was concluded to be suitable for clinical use.
Update in Noninvasive Home Mechanical Ventilation: A Narrative Review of Indications, Outcomes, and Monitoring
Authors: Tregidgo Laura , Naran Prasheena , Gosal Eshrina , D’Cruz Rebecca F.
Published: July 2024

Hypercapnic respiratory failure arises due to an imbalance in the load‐capacity‐drive relationship of the respiratory muscle pump, typically arising in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, obesity‐related respiratory failure, and neuromuscular disease. Patients at risk of developing chronic respiratory failure and those with established disease should be referred to a specialist ventilation unit for evaluation and consideration of home noninvasive ventilation (NIV) initiation. Clinical trials demonstrate that, following careful patient selection, home NIV can improve a range of clinical, patient‐reported, and physiological outcomes. This narrative review provides an overview of the pathophysiology of chronic respiratory failure, evidence‐based applications of home NIV, and monitoring of patients established on home ventilation and describes technological advances in ventilation devices, interfaces, and monitoring to enhance comfort, promote long‐term adherence, and optimise gas exchange.
Supplementary Materials and Methods from The Effect of Exposure to Neighborhood Violence on Glucocorticoid Receptor Signaling in Lung Tumors
Authors: Heath Hannah , Yoo Jin Y. , Akter Sabrina , Jain Atharva , Sharma Vani , McGee Hannah , Soliman Aiman , Mahmoud Abeer M. , Matthews Alicia K. , Winn Robert A. , Madak-Erdogan Zeynep , Kim Sage J.
Published: July 2024

Supplementary methods, expanded version of sequencing methodology.
Figure 1 from The Effect of Exposure to Neighborhood Violence on Glucocorticoid Receptor Signaling in Lung Tumors
Authors: Heath Hannah , Yoo Jin Y. , Akter Sabrina , Jain Atharva , Sharma Vani , McGee Hannah , Soliman Aiman , Mahmoud Abeer M. , Matthews Alicia K. , Winn Robert A. , Madak-Erdogan Zeynep , Kim Sage J.
Published: July 2024

Gene expression programs and neighborhood violent crime rates in lung tumors. A, Heatmap of genes correlated with violent crime rates per 1,000 (P < 0.05). Average normalized gene expressions per tumor sample were extracted from spatial transcriptomics data and checked for correlation with violent crime per 1,000. Housekeeping genes were removed and data were log-transformed and hierarchically clustered prior to visualization. From (left to right), samples are ordered from lowest violent crime ranking to highest violent crime ranking. B, Heatmap of genes correlated with overall crime rates (P < 0.05). Average normalized gene expressions per sample were extracted from spatial transcriptomics data and checked for correlation with violent crime per 1,000. Housekeeping genes were removed and data was log-transformed and hierarchically clustered prior to visualization. From (left to right), samples are ordered from lowest violent crime ranking to highest violent crime ranking. C, Pathway analysis of genes upregulated with violent crime rates per 1,000 (P < 0.05). Upregulated genes were extracted from the violent crime heatmap, and functional annotation of genes was performed in DAVID using Biocarta, Kegg, and Wikipathways analysis. D, Pathway analysis of genes upregulated with overall crime (P < 0.05). Upregulated genes were extracted from the violent crime heatmap, and functional annotation of genes was performed in DAVID using Biocarta, Kegg, and Wikipathways analysis. Abbreviation. T, tumor.
Prediction of Cognitive Impairment Risk among Older Adults: A Machine Learning-Based Comparative Study and Model Development
Authors: Li Jianwei , Li Jie , Zhu Huafang , Liu Mengyu , Li Tengfei , He Yeke , Xu Yuan , Huang Fen , Qin Qirong
Published: July 2024

Introduction: The prevalence of cognitive impairment and dementia in the older population is increasing, and thereby, early detection of cognitive decline is essential for effective intervention. Methods: This study included 2,288 participants with normal cognitive function from the Ma’anshan Healthy Aging Cohort Study. Forty-two potential predictors, including demographic characteristics, chronic diseases, lifestyle factors, anthropometric indices, physical function, and baseline cognitive function, were selected based on clinical importance and previous research. The dataset was partitioned into training, validation, and test sets in a proportion of 60% for training, 20% for validation, and 20% for testing, respectively. Recursive feature elimination was used for feature selection, followed by six machine learning algorithms that were employed for model development. The performance of the models was evaluated using area under the curve (AUC), specificity, sensitivity, and accuracy. Moreover, SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) was conducted to access the interpretability of the final selected model and to gain insights into the impact of features on the prediction outcomes. SHAP force plots were established to vividly show the application of the prediction model at the individual level. Results: The final predictive model based on the Naive Bayes algorithm achieved an AUC of 0.820 (95% CI, 0.773–0.887) on the test set, outperforming other algorithms. The top ten influential features in the model included baseline Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), education, self-reported economic status, collective or social activities, Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI), body mass index, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, instrumental activities of daily living, and age. The model demonstrated the potential to identify individuals at a higher risk of cognitive impairment within 3 years from older adults. Conclusion: The predictive model developed in this study contributes to the early detection of cognitive impairment in older adults by primary healthcare staff in community settings.
Cardiomyocyte PANX1 Controls Glycolysis and Neutrophil Recruitment in Hypertrophy
Authors: Pavelec Caitlin M. , Young Alexander P. , Luviano Hannah L. , Orrell Emily E. , Szagdaj Anna , Poudel Nabin , Wolpe Abigail G. , Thomas Samantha H. , Yeudall Scott , Upchurch Clint M. , Okusa Mark D. , Isakson Brant E. , Wolf Matthew J. , Leitinger Norbert
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

PANX1 (pannexin 1), a ubiquitously expressed ATP release membrane channel, has been shown to play a role in inflammation, blood pressure regulation, and myocardial infarction. However, the possible role of PANX1 in cardiomyocytes in the progression of heart failure has not yet been investigated.

METHOD:

We generated a novel mouse line with constitutive deletion of PANX1 in cardiomyocytes (Panx1
MyHC6
).

RESULTS:

PANX1 deletion in cardiomyocytes had no effect on unstressed heart function but increased the glycolytic metabolism and resulting glycolytic ATP production, with a concurrent decrease in oxidative phosphorylation, both in vivo and in vitro. In vitro, treatment of H9c2 (H9c2 rat myoblast cell line) cardiomyocytes with isoproterenol led to PANX1-dependent release of ATP and Yo-Pro-1 uptake, as assessed by pharmacological blockade with spironolactone and siRNA-mediated knockdown of PANX1. To investigate nonischemic heart failure and the preceding cardiac hypertrophy, we administered isoproterenol, and we demonstrated that Panx1
MyHC6
mice were protected from systolic and diastolic left ventricle volume increases as a result of cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. Moreover, we found that Panx1
MyHC6
mice showed decreased isoproterenol-induced recruitment of immune cells (CD45
+
), particularly neutrophils (CD11b
+
[integrin subunit alpha M], Ly6g
+
[lymphocyte antigen 6 family member G]), to the myocardium.

CONCLUSIONS:

Together, these data demonstrate that PANX1 deficiency in cardiomyocytes increases glycolytic metabolism and protects against cardiac hypertrophy in nonischemic heart failure at least in part by reducing immune cell recruitment. Our study implies PANX1 channel inhibition as a therapeutic approach to ameliorate cardiac dysfunction in patients with heart failure.
Retrospective Cohort Study of Additional Procedures and Transplant‐Free Survival for Patients With Functionally Single Ventricle Disease Undergoing Staged Palliation in England and Wales
Authors: Huang Qi , Ridout Deborah , Tsang Victor , Drury Nigel E. , Jones Timothy J. , Bellsham‐Revell Hannah , Hadjicosta Elena , Seale Anna N. , Mehta Chetan , Pagel Christina , Crowe Sonya , Espuny‐Pujol Ferran , Franklin Rodney C. G. , Brown Katherine L.
Published: July 2024

Background

Reinterventions may influence the outcomes of children with functionally single‐ventricle (f‐SV) congenital heart disease.

Methods and Results

We undertook a retrospective cohort study of children starting treatment for f‐SV between 2000 and 2018 in England, using the national procedure registry. Patients were categorized based on whether they survived free of transplant beyond 1 year of age. Among patients who had transplant‐free survival beyond 1 year of age, we explored the relationship between reinterventions in infancy and the outcomes of survival and Fontan completion, adjusting for complexity. Of 3307 patients with f‐SV, 909 (27.5%), had no follow‐up beyond 1 year of age, among whom 323 (35.3%) had ≥1 reinterventions in infancy. A total of 2398 (72.5%) patients with f‐SV had transplant‐free survival beyond 1 year of age, among whom 756 (31.5%) had ≥1 reinterventions in infancy. The 5‐year transplant‐free survival and cumulative incidence of Fontan, among those who survived infancy, were 93.4% (95% CI, 92.4%–94.4%) and 79.3% (95% CI, 77.4%–81.2%), respectively. Both survival and Fontan completion were similar for those with a single reintervention and those who had no reinterventions. Patients who had >1 additional surgery (adjusted hazard ratio, 3.93 [95% CI, 1.87–8.27]
P
<0.001) had higher adjusted risk of mortality. Patients who had >1 additional interventional catheter (adjusted subdistribution hazard ratio, 0.71 [95% CI, 0.52–0.96]
P
=0.03) had a lower likelihood of achieving Fontan.

Conclusions

Among children with f‐SV, the occurrence of >1 reintervention in the first year of life, especially surgical reinterventions, was associated with poorer prognosis later in childhood.
Coronary Artery Disease Is A Stronger Predictor of All‐Cause Mortality Than Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction Among Patients With Newly Diagnosed Heart Failure: Insights From the WDHR
Authors: Nielsen Roni Ranghoej , Pryds Kasper , Olesen Kevin Kris Warnakula , Mortensen Martin Bødtker , Gyldenkerne Christine , Nielsen Jens Cosedis , Hindricks Gerhard , Dagres Nikolaos , Maeng Michael
Published: July 2024

Background

In patients with newly diagnosed heart failure (HF) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <50%, little is known whether LVEF per se or presence of coronary artery disease (CAD) provides independent prognostic information on all‐cause mortality.

Methods and Results

Using the WDHR (Western Denmark Heart Registry), we identified 3620 patients with newly diagnosed HF and LVEF 10% to 49% referred for first‐time coronary angiography as part of general workup of HF. Patients were stratified by LVEF (10%–35% versus 36%–49%) and presence of CAD. We estimated 10‐year all‐cause mortality risk and calculated hazard ratios adjusted for relevant comorbidities and risk factors (aHRs). CAD was present in 1592 (44%) patients. Lower LVEF was associated with a relative 15% increased 10‐year mortality: 37% for LVEF 36% to 49% versus 42% for LVEF 10% to 35% (aHR, 1.15 [95% CI, 0.99–1.34]). This result did not change when stratified into those with CAD (52% versus 56%; aHR, 1.11 [95% CI, 0.91–1.35]) and those without CAD (27% versus 33%; aHR, 1.24 [95% CI, 0.97–1.57]). In comparison, presence and extent of CAD were associated with a relative 43% increased 10‐year mortality (CAD versus no CAD, 55.0% versus 31.5%; aHR, 1.43 [95% CI, 1.25–1.64]). Compared with a matched general population, excess mortality risk was higher for patients with HF and CAD (54.7% versus 26.3%; aHR, 2.10 [95% CI, 1.85–2.39]) versus those with HF and no CAD (31.4% versus 17.2%; aHR, 1.76 [95% CI, 1.52–2.02]).

Conclusions

Among newly diagnosed patients with HF and LVEF <50%, presence and extent of CAD are associated with substantial higher all‐cause mortality risk than lower LVEF.
Impaired Cardiac Sympathetic Activity Is Associated With Myocardial Remodeling and Established Biomarkers of Heart Failure
Authors: da Silva Luis M. , Coy‐Canguçu Andréa , Paim Layde R. , Bau Adriana A. , Nicolela Geraldo Martins Camila , Pinheiro Stephan , Citeli Ribeiro Vinicius , Magalhães Rocha Walter E. , Mattos‐Souza Jose R. , Schreiber Roberto , Antunes‐Correa Lígia , Sposito Andrei , Nadruz Wilson , Ramos Celso D. , Neilan Tomas , Jerosch‐Herold Michael , Coelho‐Filho Otávio R.
Published: July 2024

Background

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Iodine‐meta‐iodobenzylguanidine scintigraphy is useful for assessing cardiac autonomic dysfunction and predict outcomes in heart failure (HF). The relationship of cardiac sympathetic function with myocardial remodeling and diffuse fibrosis remains largely unknown. We aimed to evaluate the cardiac sympathetic function of patients with HF and its relation with myocardial remodeling and exercise capacity.

Methods and Results

Prospectively enrolled patients with HF (New York Heart Association class II–III) were stratified into HF with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF] ≥45%) and reduced LVEF. Ventricular morphology/function and myocardial extracellular volume (ECV) fraction were quantified by cardiovascular magnetic resonance, global longitudinal strain by echocardiography, cardiac sympathetic function by heart‐to‐mediastinum ratio from
123
iodine‐meta‐iodobenzylguanidine scintigraphy. All participants underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing. The cohort included 33 patients with HF with preserved LVEF (LVEF, 60±10%; NT‐proBNP [N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide], 248 [interquartile range, 79–574] pg/dL), 28 with HF with reduced LVEF (LVEF, 30±9%; NT‐proBNP, 743 [interquartile range, 250–2054] pg/dL) and 20 controls (LVEF, 65±5%; NT‐proBNP, 40 [interquartile range, 19–50] pg/dL). Delayed (4 hours)
123
iodine‐meta‐iodobenzylguanidine heart‐to‐mediastinum ratio was lower in HF with preserved LVEF (1.59±0.25) and HF with reduced LVEF (1.45±0.16) versus controls (1.92±0.24;
P
<0.001), and correlated negatively with diffuse fibrosis assessed by ECV (
R
=−0.34,
P
<0.01). ECV in segments without LGE was increased in HF with preserved ejection fraction (0.32±0.05%) and HF with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (0.31±0.04%) versus controls (0.28±0.04,
P
<0.05) and was associated with the age‐ and sex‐adjusted maximum oxygen consumption (peak oxygen consumption); (
R
=−0.41,
P
<0.01). Preliminary analysis indicates that cardiac sympathetic function might potentially act as a mediator in the association between ECV and NT‐proBNP levels.

Conclusions

Abnormally low cardiac sympathetic function in patients with HF with reduced and preserved LVEF is associated with extracellular volume expansion and decreased cardiopulmonary functional capacity.
A new hermit crab species of the genus Catapaguroides A. Milne-Edwards & Bouvier, 1892 (Decapoda: Anomura: Paguridae) from Okinawa Island, southwestern Japan
Authors: OSAWA MASAYUKI , SATO TAIGI
Published: July 2024

Catapaguroides ngankeeae n. sp., a new diminutive species of Paguridae, is described from shallow reef environments in Okinawa Island, Ryukyu Islands, southwestern Japan. The new species is morphologically similar to C. brevidactylus Komai & Rahayu, 2013 and C. melini de Saint Laurent, 1968, but is distinguished from the two species primarily by the ornamentation of the palm and dactylus of the right cheliped and the length of the right sexual tube in the male. Catapaguroides ngankeeae n. sp. represents the eleventh species of the genus from Japanese waters.
Description of a new species of freshwater shrimp (Decapoda: Caridea: Atyidae) from Mount Danxia, Guangdong, China, based on morphological and molecular evidence
Authors: WANG YAQIN , CHU KA HOU , MA KA YAN
Published: July 2024

A new atyid species, Caridina danxiaensis sp. nov., is discovered from Danxia Mountain National Nature Reserve in Guangdong Province. Morphological investigations show obvious differences from any known Caridina species. It can be easily distinguished from its congeners based on distinct characteristics of the rostrum, stylocerite, and uropodal diaeresis. Genetic analysis of Caridina based on 16S rRNA gene sequences also supports the distinctiveness of the new species from all other morphologically similar species. The sequence divergence (Kimura 2-parameter model) based on this gene between the new species and its closest congener, C. clinata, was 5.7%.
Confirmation of Ostracotheres H. Milne Edwards, 1853 from Southeast Asia in a new species from Singapore and Indonesia (Crustacea: Decapoda: Brachyura)
Authors: AHYONG SHANE T. , MENDOZA JOSE CHRISTOPHER E.
Published: July 2024

A new species of the pinnotherid crab genus Ostracotheres H. Milne Edwards, 1853 described from Singapore and Indonesia is the third species in the genus, previously represented by O. cynthiae Nobili, 1906 and O. tridacnae (Rüppell, 1830) (type species), both known only from the Red Sea and western Gulf of Aden. Therefore, the new species represents the first confirmed record of the Ostracotheres outside of the western Indian Ocean and the twelfth species and ninth genus of pinnotherid to be recorded from Singapore. The new species is closest to O. cynthiae, differing in details of the epistome, ornamentation of the walking leg dactyli and proportional lengths of the walking legs. A key to the species of Ostracotheres is provided.
Verification of Tropical Cyclogenesis Forecasts of the Korean Integrated Model for 2020–21
Authors: Jung Jiyoung , Chang Minhee , Lee Eun-Hee , Sung Mi-Kyung
Published: July 2024

Accurate tropical cyclogenesis (TCG) prediction is important because it allows national operational forecasting agencies to issue timely warnings and implement effective disaster prevention measures. In 2020, the Korea Meteorological Administration employed a self-developed operational model called the Korean Integrated Model (KIM). In this study, we verified KIM’s TCG forecast skill over the western North Pacific. Based on 9-day forecasts, TCG in the model was objectively detected and classified as well-predicted, early formation, late formation, miss, or false alarm by comparing their formation times and locations with those of 46 tropical cyclones (TCs) from June to November in 2020–21 documented by the Joint Typhoon Warning Center. The prediction of large-scale environmental conditions relevant to TCG was also evaluated. The results showed that the probability of KIM detection was comparable to or better than that of previously reported statistics of other numerical weather prediction models. The intrabasin comparison revealed that the probability of detection in the Philippine Sea was the highest, followed by the South China Sea and central Pacific. The best TCG prediction performance in the Philippine Sea was supported by unbiased forecasts in large-scale environments. The missed and false alarm cases in all three regions had the largest prediction biases in the large-scale lower-tropospheric relative vorticity. Excessive false alarms may be associated with prediction biases in the vertical gradient of equivalent potential temperature within the boundary layer. This study serves as a primary guide for national forecasters and is useful to model developers for further refinement of KIM.