bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Body mass index as a determinant of scar formation post‐AF ablation: Insights from DECAAF II
Authors: Bidaoui Ghassan , Tsakiris Eli , Younes Hadi , Feng Han , Assaf Ala , Chouman Nour , Bsoul Mayana , Polo Francisco Tirado , Jia Yishi , Liu Yingshou , Lim Chanho , Chamoun Nadia , Mekhael Mario , Noujaim Charbel , Pandey Amitabh C. , Rao Swati , Kreidieh Omar , Marrouche Nassir F. , Donnellan Eoin
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Obesity is implicated in adverse atrial remodeling and worse outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation. The objective of this study is to assess the effect of body mass index (BMI) on ablation‐induced scar formation on late gadolinium enhancement cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (LGE‐CMR).

Methods

We conducted an analysis of DECAAF II participants who underwent LGE‐CMR scans to measure scar formation 3 months after catheter ablation. Ablation parameters and lesion delivery were not dependent on BMI. The effect of BMI on ablation success was explored.

Results

Our analyses included 811 patients. Comorbidities were more prevalent in obese patients. Baseline left atrial volume was higher in obese individuals, 118, 126, 135, 140, and 143 mm3 for normal weight, overweight, obese grade 1, 2, and 3, respectively (p < .001). BMI was associated with scar formation (R = −0.135, p < .001), with patients with Class 3 obesity having the lowest percentage of ablation‐induced scar, 11.1%, 10.3%, 9.5%, 8.8%, 6.8% by ascending BMI group. There was an inverse correlation between BMI and the amount of fibrosis covered by ablation scar, 24%, 23%, 21%, and 18% by ascending BMI group (p = .001). For the fibrosis‐guided ablation group, BMI was associated with residual fibrosis (R = 0.056, p = .005).

Conclusion

Obese patients have lower ablation scar formation, covered fibrosis, and more residual fibrosis postablation compared to nonobese patients, regardless of ablation parameters including impedance drop.
Tracking animal movements via collaborative acoustic telemetry networks: Multiscale habitat use, phenology, and management insights
Authors: Livernois Mariah C. , Ogburn Matthew B. , Legett Henry D. , Richie Kimberly D. , Aguilar Robert , Heggie Keira , Furey Nathan B.
Published: October 2024

Estuaries support diverse fish and invertebrate communities, including resident species that rely on estuarine habitats year‐round and transient migratory species. The unique movement patterns of these animals connect habitats within and far beyond the estuary and are integrally linked to fisheries management objectives. With a focus on Chesapeake Bay, this study leveraged data from collaborative acoustic telemetry networks in the northwest Atlantic to assess habitat use and phenology of movements for seven species of fish (cownose rays, dusky sharks, smooth dogfish, alewife, striped bass, common carp, and blue catfish) and one invertebrate (horseshoe crabs). A total of 288 acoustically tagged individuals were detected >3.2 million times (6,743 to 2,095,717 detections per species) on receivers across ~20.5 degrees of latitude spanning the North American Atlantic seaboard from Florida, USA, to New Brunswick, Canada. Common metrics of movement and phenology grouped these species as resident (common carp, blue catfish, horseshoe crabs), primarily resident in estuaries (juvenile striped bass), and coastal migrant (cownose rays, dusky sharks, smooth dogfish, alewife); maximum distance traveled varied by three orders of magnitude among these species. Further analysis of phenology for coastal migrants elucidated the timing and duration of these species' use of Chesapeake Bay. Collectively, movements linked habitats within Chesapeake Bay and connected the estuary to coastal ecosystems both to the north (e.g., alewife) and south (e.g., cownose rays), creating networks of fisheries management jurisdictions that varied in complexity and identified opportunities for enhancement to current management or co‐management of some species. Our results elucidate the importance of estuaries to species with diverse movement behaviors, identify scales and pathways of habitat connectivity via animal movements, and highlight the utility of collaborative acoustic telemetry networks for quantifying movements relevant to both ecological research and fisheries management.
Light signaling‐dependent regulation of plastid RNA processing in Arabidopsis
Authors: Hu Lili , Wu Qian , Wu Chunyu , Zhang Chunmei , Wu Ziying , Shi Meihui , Zhang Man , Duan Sujuan , Wang Hong‐Bin , Jin Hong‐Lei
Published: October 2024

Light is a vital environmental signal that regulates the expression of plastid genes. Plastids are crucial organelles that respond to light, but the effects of light on plastid RNA processing following transcription remain unclear. In this study, we systematically examined the influence of light exposure on plastid RNA processing, focusing on RNA splicing and RNA editing. We demonstrated that light promotes the splicing of transcripts from the plastid genes rps12, ndhA, atpF, petB, and rpl2. Additionally, light increased the editing rate of the accD transcript at nucleotide 794 (accD‐794) and the ndhF transcript at nucleotide 290 (ndhF‐290), while decreasing the editing rate of the clpP transcript at nucleotide 559 (clpP‐559). We have identified key regulators of signaling pathways, such as CONSTITUTIVELY PHOTOMORPHOGENIC 1 (COP1), ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL 5 (HY5), and PHYTOCHROME‐INTERACTING FACTORs (PIFs), as important players in the regulation of plastid RNA splicing and editing. Notably, COP1 was required for GENOMES UNCOUPLED1 (GUN1)‐dependent repression of clpP‐559 editing in the light. We showed that HY5 and PIF1 bind to the promoters of nuclear genes encoding plastid‐localized RNA processing factors in a light‐dependent manner. This study provides insight into the mechanisms underlying light‐mediated post‐transcriptional regulation of plastid gene expression.
Decomposing Supply‐ and Demand‐Driven Inflation
Authors: SHAPIRO ADAM HALE
Published: October 2024

The extent to which either supply or demand factors drive inflation has important implications for economic policy. I propose a framework to decompose inflation into supply‐ and demand‐driven components. I generate two new data series that quantify the degree to which either demand or supply is driving inflation in a current month. The demand‐driven contribution tends to decline during recessions, while the supply‐driven contribution tends to follow food and energy prices. Monetary policy tightening acts to reduce the demand‐driven contribution of inflation. Oil‐supply shocks act to increase the supply‐driven contribution, but decrease the demand‐driven contribution of inflation.
(In)Stability of the Relationship between Relative Expenditure and Price of Durable and Nondurable Goods
Authors: BHATT VIPUL , KISHOR N. KUNDAN
Published: October 2024

Using an intertemporal consumption model with nondurable and durable goods, we identify a break in the long‐run equilibrium relationship between their relative expenditure and relative prices. From 1959 to 1981, these goods were gross substitutes with an elasticity greater than one. Post‐1981, the estimated elasticity is below one, indicating complementarity. This shift altered short‐run dynamics with durable goods still driving error correction but the magnitude of adjustment is smaller. The cyclical component of durable goods consumption has become more persistent, suggesting that shocks, such as the COVID‐19 pandemic, now result in more prolonged deviations from the long‐run equilibrium.
Does Regulation Only Bite the Less Profitable? Evidence from the Too‐Big‐To‐Fail Reforms
Authors: GOEL TIRUPAM , LEWRICK ULF , MATHUR AAKRITI
Published: October 2024

What shapes banks' response to capital requirement reforms? While prereform capitalization is important in the short term, we posit that profitability is key in the medium term, as it underpins banks' capacity to build capital. We examine the impact of capital surcharges on systemically important banks. Through a novel application of textual analysis to identify when banks react, we show that less profitable banks contract when faced with higher requirements, especially if they are closer to the thresholds that determine their surcharges. Conversely, more profitable banks continue to expand, improving banking efficiency but raising concerns about concentration and exposure to tail risks.
Sex and Gender Variables in Data Set Creation and Data Cleaning for Inclusive and Accurate Reproductive Health Research and Quality Improvement
Authors: Phillippi Julia C. , Wiese Andrew , Loch Sarah F. , Wei Wei‐Qi , Ong Henry H. , Gonzales Gilbert , Patrick Stephen W.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Existing data is often used for reproductive research and quality improvement. Electronic health records (EHRs) with a single data field for sex and gender conflate sex assigned at birth, genotype, gender identity, and the presence of anatomic tissue and organs. This is problematic for inclusion of transgender and gender‐diverse populations in research. This article discusses considerations with a single‐item sex and gender variable drawn from EHR records and describes an audit to determine variable validity as a criterion for inclusion or exclusion in perinatal research.

Methods

Individuals with a live birth at a large academic medical center from 2010 to 2022 were identified via electronic query, and records with male demographic information were reviewed to validate (1) the patient's date of birth and delivery date in the EHR matched the medical record number, (2) male sex and gender demographic information, and (3) male gender terms in EHR notes.

Results

All health records of male birthing individuals (n = 8) had EHR evidence of giving birth within the health system during the timeframe, and the date of birth matched the medical record number of the EHR. All had male gender in the EHR demographic information. Six patients did not have any male gender terms in available EHR notes, only female gender terms. Two records had recent notes using male gender terms.

Discussion

Current EHRs may not have reliable data on the gender and sex of gender‐diverse individuals. A single sex and gender variable drawn from EHRs should not be used as inclusion or exclusion criteria for health research or quality improvement without additional record review. EHRs can be updated to collect more data on sex, gender identity, and other relevant variables to improve research and quality improvement.
Alpha‐1 antitrypsin deficiency associated with increased risks of skin cancer, leukemia, and hepatic cancer: A nationwide cohort study
Authors: Korsbæk Nanna J. , Landt Eskild M. , Marott Sarah C. W. , Nordestgaard Børge G. , Vinding Gabrielle R. , Jemec Gregor B. E. , Dahl Morten
Published: October 2024

Background

α1‐Antitrypsin deficiency is characterized by elevated elastase activity and excessive elastin degradation, which may impact cancer development and progression. We tested the hypothesis that individuals with α1‐antitrypsin deficiency have increased susceptibility to cancer in the Danish population.

Methods

In a nationwide nested study, we identified 2702 individuals with α1‐antitrypsin deficiency and 26,750 control subjects without α1‐antitrypsin deficiency matched on age, sex, and municipality. We recorded admissions due to cancer as outcomes during a median follow‐up of 62 years.

Results

Individuals with α1‐antitrypsin deficiency versus control subjects had an increased hazard of skin cancer (2.18, 95%CI: 1.81–2.63), leukemia (1.76, 1.12–2.79), liver cancer (3.91, 2.23–6.85), and cancer overall (1.25, 1.13–1.38). Corresponding hazard ratios when the entire Danish population was used as control group were 3.02 (2.55–3.58), 1.83 (1.19–2.81), 4.46 (2.74–7.28), and 1.45 (1.31–1.59). When the analysis was stratified according to comorbidities, the hazard for skin cancer was higher in those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (3.59, 2.60–4.95) and skin disease (2.93, 2.19–3.92) but remained elevated in those without any of these diseases. Hazards for skin cancer in individuals with α1‐antitrypsin deficiency were similar when stratified by liver cirrhosis and ischemic heart disease (ps for interaction: ≥0.76). Hazards for liver cancer in individuals with α1‐antitrypsin deficiency versus control subjects were similar when stratified according to liver cirrhosis, COPD, skin disease, and ischemic heart disease (ps for interaction: ≥0.13).

Conclusion

Individuals with α1‐antitrypsin deficiency have increased risks of skin cancer, leukemia, and liver cancer in the Danish population.
Gender inequality in intergenerational contact after parental separation in the digital era
Authors: Tosi Marco , Arpino Bruno
Published: October 2024

Objective

The goal of this brief report is to analyze parent‐adult child contact frequency in intact and non‐intact families by focusing on parent and child gender and the type of contact.

Background

Parental separation increases gender differences in parent–child relationships, with separated fathers having less frequent contact with their adult children compared to separated mothers. We investigate whether the father–mother gap in post‐separation contact varies according to parent–child gender mismatch and the type of contact, that is, face‐to‐face, phone, or digital (e.g., via video calls).

Method

We use data on Italian families from the Family and Social Subjects survey to examine parent–child contact frequency among 6770 adult children aged 30–55 (11,041 parent–child dyads). We estimate random and fixed effects models on the probability of having frequent contact with biological parents in intact and non‐intact families (parental separation before age 18).

Results

Fathers' reduced contact frequency compared to mothers is particularly evident with daughters, more pronounced in face‐to‐face and phone contact than in digital contact, and greater among younger daughters at the time of separation. Gender differences in phone and digital contact are larger for fathers who have also less frequent face‐to‐face contact compared to mothers.

Conclusion

We interpret these findings by focusing on the centrality of mother–daughter ties and the loyalty that children have with the same‐gender parent. We also suggest that different types of contact reinforce gender differences between parents and may lead to a polarization of older parents with “strong” and “weak” family ties.
Seizing the moments and lessons learned from the global response to COVID‐19 pandemic: Creating a platform to shape the scientific and public discourse of research on adolescence
Authors: Murry Velma McBride
Published: October 2024

COVID‐19 response offers a model to guide research and preventive interventions targeting adolescents, their families, and communities. My 2022 SRA Presidential Address posed: What if the COVID‐19 Response Served as a Guidepost for Future Research on Adolescence? Solution versus Problem‐Focused Agenda. Several “pandemics” were already underway, emerging from historic and contemporary events that threaten the safety and survival of human lives. The Multi‐Transgenerational Life Course Theoretical model was selected to demonstrate pathways through which the transmission of generational exposure to crisis and trauma impact adolescents' developmental trajectories. Recommendations to inform and guide an adolescent research rapid response agenda are proposed minds to advance equity and social justice can become realities.
United States Provider Experiences With Telemedicine for Hepatitis C Treatment: A Nationwide Survey
Authors: Patel Pruthvi , Wells Martin T. , Wethington Elaine , Shapiro Martin , Parvez Yasir , Kapadia Shashi N. , Talal Andrew H.
Published: October 2024

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination requires treatment access expansion, especially for underserved populations. Telehealth has the potential to improve HCV treatment access, although data are limited on its incorporation into standard clinical practice. We conducted a cross‐sectional, email survey of 598 US HCV treatment providers who had valid email addresses and (1) were located in urban areas and had written ≥ 20 prescriptions for HCV treatment to US Medicare beneficiaries in 2019–2020 or (2) were located in non‐urban areas and wrote any HCV prescriptions in 2019–2020. Through email, we notified providers of a self‐administered electronic 28‐item survey of clinical strategies and attitudes about telemedicine for HCV. We received 86 responses (14% response rate), of which 75 used telemedicine for HCV in 2022. Of those 75, 24% were gastroenterologists/hepatologists, 23% general medicine, 17% infectious diseases and 32% non‐physicians. Most (82%) referred patients to commercial laboratories, and 85% had medications delivered directly to patients. Overwhelmingly, respondents (92%) felt that telehealth increases healthcare access, and 76% reported that it promotes or is neutral for treatment completion. Factors believed to be ‘extremely’ or ‘very’ important for telehealth use included patient access to technology (86%); patients' internet access (74%); laboratory access (76%); reimbursement for video visits (74%) and audio‐only visits (66%). Non‐physician licensing and liability statutes were rated ‘extremely’ or ‘very’ important by 43% and 44%, respectively. Providers felt that telehealth increases HCV treatment access. Major limitations were technological requirements, reimbursement, and access to ancillary services. These findings support the importance of digital equity and literacy to achieve HCV elimination goals.
Defining causes of death‐censored kidney allograft failure: A 5‐year multicentre ANZDATA and clinical cross‐sectional study
Authors: Mulley William R. , Hughes Peter D. , Collins Michael G. , Pilmore Helen L. , Clayton Philip A. , Wyld Melanie L. , Lee Darren , van der Jeugd Jane , Fernando Sanduni C. , Kuo Stephanie Fang‐Tzu , Tan Sarah , Jahan Sadia , Lim Wai H.
Published: October 2024

Aim

Determining specific causes of allograft failure allows a focus on understanding and treating these conditions. Previous studies highlight chronic antibody‐mediated rejection as a leading cause of late allograft failure. We sought to define causes of allograft failure in a large cohort of kidney transplant recipients across multiple centres in Australia and New Zealand, including cases previously attributed to chronic allograft nephropathy (CAN).

Methods

All death‐censored allograft failures at 9 participating centres between 1 January 2014 to 31 December 2018 were included. Available clinical and biopsy data were reviewed and the “most likely” cause assigned.

Results

There were 642 death‐censored allograft failures in the study period. Of these, 495 (77.1%) had an informative biopsy performed a median of 13.4 months (IQR 2.5–39.1 months) prior to allograft failure. Rejection of any type was the leading cause of allograft failure (47.5%), comprised chiefly of chronic antibody‐mediated rejection (37.4%) and chronic T‐cell mediated rejection (6.4%). Other leading causes were undifferentiated interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy (10.8%), late medical and surgical complications (8.1%) and recurrent or de novo glomerulonephritis (7.0%). Polyoma viral nephropathy and calcineurin inhibitor toxicity each contributed to <2%. Causes of allograft failure previously attributed to CAN (n = 419, 65.3%) had a similar distribution to the overall cohort, with 43.9% attributed to chronic antibody‐mediated rejection.

Conclusion

To prolong allograft survival, improved strategies are needed to curtail alloimmune responses. Greater understanding of the causes of undifferentiated interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy and potential treatments would also be of considerable benefit.
Hope experiences in pregnant women after artificial reproduction technology: Becoming a mother
Authors: Tseng Yun‐Min , Mu Pei‐Fan , Lai Ying‐Ming
Published: October 2024

Hope is a common phenomenon in human life. The process of infertile women being treated with assisted reproductive technology is difficult. The concept of hope can be applied in the nursing practice to help patients have a positive treatment experience, reduce feelings of despair, and find significance in difficult treatments. This study used phenomenological approach to understand the essential structure of the hope experiences of infertile women after successful artificial reproduction. A total of 10 infertile women who were successfully pregnant for more than 8 weeks and less than 24 weeks participated in this study. The essence of the hope experiences of infertile women after successful artificial reproduction was the process of “becoming a mother” which included four themes: (1) try hard to get pregnant; (2) outline a blueprint for the future of motherhood; (3) protect the fetus; and (4) integrate the fetus into the family. This study enabled medical teams to play the role of caregivers, intervened in hope care, and strengthened evidence‐based practice to improve the quality of care by focusing on feelings of hope.
Current Status and Factors Influencing Mental Health Literacy in Patients With Coronary Heart Disease: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Sun Cuiling , Chen Chunli , Feng Jun , Zhang Ting , Zhang Yuting , Pan Xiaona , Shi Ke
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to investigate the current status of mental health literacy and related influencing factors in patients with coronary heart disease. Four hundred and thirty‐five patients with coronary heart disease were recruited in this survey. Data collection was conducted using the General Information Questionnaire, the Chinese version of the Mental Health Literacy Scale, Coronary Artery Disease Self‐Management Scale, Social Support Rating Scale, and Coronary Heart Disease Self‐Efficacy Scale. Descriptive methods, independent samples t‐test or one‐way ANOVA, Pearson's correlation analysis, and multiple linear regression were used for data analysis. The results showed that the mean total mental health literacy score of patients with coronary heart disease was 96.42 ± 8.40; gender, age, education level, monthly per capita family income, first diagnosed with coronary heart disease, cardiac function classification, self‐management ability, social support, and self‐efficacy were the factors influencing the level of mental health literacy in patients with coronary heart disease (all p < 0.05). The study suggests that mental health literacy can improve patients' self‐management ability and self‐efficacy, and healthcare professionals should emphasize the strengthening of this aspect of health education in order to better improve patient's prognosis.
New insights into the mechanisms of plant isotope fractionation from combined analysis of intramolecular 13C and deuterium abundances in Pinus nigra tree‐ring glucose
Authors: Wieloch Thomas , Holloway‐Phillips Meisha , Yu Jun , Niittylä Totte
Published: October 2024

Understanding isotope fractionation mechanisms is fundamental for analyses of plant ecophysiology and paleoclimate based on tree‐ring isotope data.

To gain new insights into isotope fractionation, we analysed intramolecular 13C discrimination in tree‐ring glucose (Δi′, i = C‐1 to C‐6) and metabolic deuterium fractionation at H1 and H2 (εmet) combinedly. This dual‐isotope approach was used for isotope‐signal deconvolution.

We found evidence for metabolic processes affecting Δ1′ and Δ3′, which respond to air vapour pressure deficit (VPD), and processes affecting Δ1′, Δ2′, and εmet, which respond to precipitation but not VPD. These relationships exhibit change points dividing a period of homeostasis (1961–1980) from a period of metabolic adjustment (1983–1995). Homeostasis may result from sufficient groundwater availability. Additionally, we found Δ5′ and Δ6′ relationships with radiation and temperature, which are temporally stable and consistent with previously proposed isotope fractionation mechanisms.

Based on the multitude of climate covariables, intramolecular carbon isotope analysis has a remarkable potential for climate reconstruction. While isotope fractionation beyond leaves is currently considered to be constant, we propose significant parts of the carbon and hydrogen isotope variation in tree‐ring glucose originate in stems (precipitation‐dependent signals). As basis for follow‐up studies, we propose mechanisms introducing Δ1′, Δ2′, Δ3′, and εmet variability.
Piezo1 Promotes Osteogenesis Through CaMKII Signalling in a Rat Maxillary Expansion Model
Authors: He Zhengquan , Du Yugui , Peng Chuhan , Xu Bowen , Tang Jiayue , Liu Runxuan , Yang Kai
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Rapid maxillary expansion (RME) is a widely used technique to treat maxillary transverse deficiency. Piezo1 is a cation channel that is activated by mechanical force and regulates bone formation. This study aims to elucidate the role of Piezo1 in bone remodelling during the RME process.

Materials and Methods

In this study, the periosteal‐derived stem cells (PDSCs) were cultured and stretched by the Flexcell system. The effects of Piezo1 on osteogenesis were assessed via RNA sequencing, real‐time quantitative PCR, and western blot analyses. Moreover, for in vivo analyses, the rat RME model was established. The function of Piezo1 in mid‐palatal suture bone remodelling was evaluated using micro‐CT, haematoxylin–eosin (HE) staining, and immunohistochemistry analyses.

Results

It was revealed that under tension force, the osteogenic factors (Runt‐related transcription factor 2, Osterix, and Alkaline Phosphatase) and Ca2+/calmodulin ‐dependent protein kinase (CaMKII) were significantly enhanced in PDSCs over time. Furthermore, these were also upregulated in the RME model with the expansion of the mid‐palatal suture. However, Piezo1 inhibition by Grammostola spatulata mechanotoxin 4 downregulated the levels of these factors in the RME model.

Conclusions

This study indicated that Piezo1 is associated with the osteogenesis of PDSCs and bone remodelling in the RME process. CaMKII might also participate in this process.
Salivary microbiome and biomarker characteristics of diabetics with periodontitis
Authors: Ebersole Jeffrey L. , Kirakodu Sreenatha S. , Zhang Xiahou , Dawson Dolph , Miller Craig S.
Published: October 2024

Objective

To examine the characteristics of the salivary microbiome in Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients with or without periodontitis.

Background

Periodontitis has been identified as clear sequelae of T2DM. This chronic oral disease also impacts the management of the clinical features of diabetes. The oral microbiome characteristics in T2DM with and without periodontitis, as well as the response of this oral microbiome to nonsurgical therapy have not been well described. Knowledge of key oral biological features could help address the observed poorer clinical presentation of T2DM patients.

Methods

The oral microbiome in saliva of adult cohorts periodontally healthy/non‐diabetic (non‐periodontitis; NP; n = 31), T2DM without periodontitis (DWoP; n = 32), and T2DM with periodontitis (DWP; n = 29) were characterized by microbial molecular analysis using V3–V4 sequencing and Luminex or ELISA techniques for salivary host analytes.

Results

Phyla distribution showed DWP with significantly lower levels of Firmicutes and Actinobacteria and higher levels of Fusobacteria and Spirochetes compared to the healthier groups. Approximately 10% of the detected microbial species showed significant differences in frequency and level of colonization among the DWP, DWoP, and NP samples. A subset of bacteria were significantly correlated with clinical disease features, as well as a specific repertoire of salivary analytes, in particular matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)8/MMP9, interleukin‐1ß, B‐cell activating factor, and resistin differed between the groups and were related to specific taxa. Principal component analysis that identified a majority of the DWP subjects microbiome was unique based upon an array of 27 taxa out of up to 255 detected in the saliva samples.

Conclusion

T2DM patients with periodontitis show unique oral microbiome and salivary analyte composition compared to diabetics or non‐diabetic persons without periodontitis. Specific members of the oral microbiome relate directly to the clinical disease features and/or salivary biomolecules in T2DM individuals.
12. Vascular pain: Ischemic pain in the extremities and Raynaud's syndrome
Authors: van der Gaag Antal , Cohen Steven P. , Stojanovic Milan P. , Huygen Frank J. P. M. , Kallewaard Jan Willem
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Peripheral artery diseases (PAD) and Raynaud's syndrome are associated with substantial morbidity. PAD, through the restriction of blood flow to the extremities, may lead to critical limb ischemia with symptoms of pain at rest which may eventually progress to severe limb ischemia with gangrene. This serious and painful clinical condition requires extensive medical care, is limb‐threatening and, in case of delayed or unsuccessful treatment, is associated with a high mortality rate. In Raynaud's syndrome, the blood supply to certain parts of the body, usually the fingers and toes and less frequently the nose or ears, is restricted because of vasculopathy of the smaller vessels at acral sites. Under certain circumstances, with cold as the most well‐known provoking factor, blood flow restriction occurs, leading to demarcated color changes and symptoms such as pain, paresthesia, and numbness. In severe cases of Raynaud syndrome tissue ischemia may lead to necrosis and the need for amputation of the affected area.

Methods

In this narrative review, the literature on the diagnosis and interventional pain treatment of PAD and Raynaud's syndrome was updated and summarized.

Objectives

This review focused on interventional pain treatment. In PAD, the effects of the intervention on limb salvage, ulcer healing, and ischemic pain were summarized. Additionally, results with respect to skin microcirculation and quality of life were reported if available. In Raynaud's syndrome, we focused on the effect of the intervention on peripheral blood flow metrics and pain intensity during attacks.

Results

In PAD, prevention and treatment of risk factors are important. Initially, conservative treatment and pharmacological therapy are preferred first‐line therapies. However, when disease progression occurs, interventional management may be considered. The literature search yielded conflicting evidence for sympathectomy as a treatment for PAD. Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) as a treatment modality for advanced PAD had high‐quality evidence for limb salvage in subgroups of patients but conflicting evidence for other outcome measures such as pain, wound healing, and quality of life. The literature search for interventional pain management in Raynaud's syndrome was limited to only one randomized controlled trial (RCT) studying the effect of thoracic sympathectomy. This study had several limitations and hence the level of evidence for this interventional treatment is very low. No RCTs studying SCS in patients with Raynaud's syndrome were found.

Conclusions

In both PAD and Raynaud's syndrome, additional RCTs are needed to substantiate interventional (pain) management and bolster the evidence base for sympathectomy and SCS as treatment options.
Genetic Evidence of Recessive Epistasis Among Sex Determining silkless1 (sk1) tasselseed1 (ts1) and tasselseed2 (ts2) Genes and Its Utility in Maize (Zea mays L.) Breeding
Authors: Zunjare Rajkumar Uttamrao , Muthusamy Vignesh , Chand Gulab , Chauhan Priyanka , Rathore Aayushi Singh , Katral Ashvinkumar , Mishra Subhra Jyotshna , Hossain Firoz
Published: October 2024

In maize, sex is determined by the formation of staminate and pistillate florets from an initially bisexual floral meristem through action of Silkless1 (Sk1), Tasselseed1 (Ts1) and Tasselseed2 (Ts2) genes. In this study, separate temperate donors having mutant sk1 (EC904829 and EC904831), ts1 (EC904827) and ts2 (EC904824) genes were crossed with sub‐tropical inbreds (HKI323 and HKI1105) to investigate the genetics and interaction of silkless and tasselseed traits. The monogenic and nuclear inheritance of sk1, ts1 and ts2 genes was established in a standard Mendelian principles in both monohybrid and dihybrid crosses irrespective of genetic background. About 444 F2 progenies across digenic population ‐A, ‐B and ‐C segregated as 239 normal: 109 silkless: 96 tasselseed, and 377 progenies of digenic populations ‐D, ‐E and ‐F segregated with 214 normal: 79 silkless: 84 tasselseed plants revealing recessive epistatic interaction (9:3:4) of sk1 with two ts mutations (ts1 and ts2). No progeny with both silkless and tasselseed phenotype was observed. The double mutants (sk1sk1/ts1ts1 and sk1sk1/ts2ts2) were identified through progeny testing. Our study emphasize the untapped potential of these mutants, providing a renewed focus for maize breeders worldwide.
Salinity‐Induced Photorespiration in Populus Vascular Tissues Facilitate Nitrogen Reallocation
Authors: Wilhelmi Maria del Mar Rubio , Maneejantra Nuchada , Balasubramanian Vimal Kumar , Purvine Samuel O. , Williams Sarai , DiFazio Stephen , Stewart C. Neal , Ahkami Amir H. , Blumwald Eduardo
Published: October 2024

Adaptation to abiotic stress is critical for the survival of perennial tree species. Salinity affects plant growth and productivity by interfering with major biosynthetic processes. Detrimental effects of salinity may vary between different plant tissues and cell types. However, spatial molecular mechanisms controlling plant responses to salinity stress are not yet thoroughly understood in perennial trees. We used laser capture microdissection in clones of Populus tremula x alba to isolate palisade and vascular cells of intermediary leaf from plants exposed to 150 mM NaCl for 10 days, followed by a recovery period. Cell‐specific changes in proteins and metabolites were determined. Salinity induced a vascular‐specific accumulation of proteins associated with photorespiration, and the accumulation of serine, 3‐phosphoglycerate and NH4+ suggesting changes in N metabolism. Accumulation of the GLUTAMINE SYNTHETASE 2 protein, and increased GS1.1 gene expression, indicated that NH4+ produced in photorespiration was assimilated to glutamine, the main amino acid translocated in Populus trees. Further analysis of total soluble proteins in stems and roots showed the accumulation of bark storage proteins induced by the salinity treatments. Collectively, our results suggest that the salt‐induced photorespiration in vascular cells mediates N‐reallocation in Populus, an essential process for the adaptation of trees to adverse conditions.
Furosemide for patent ductus arteriosus during cyclooxygenase inhibitor therapy: A systematic review
Authors: Kitaoka Hiroki , Terada Yusuke , Tanaka Kosuke , Nozaki Masatoshi , Masutani Satoshi , Isayama Tetsuya , Toyoshima Katsuaki
Published: October 2024

Background

Although furosemide is used during cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor therapy for patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), there are concerns regarding increased ductal closure failure and acute renal failure (ARF). This systematic review explores the effects of furosemide during COX inhibitor therapy.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Igaku Chuo Zasshi databases for randomized clinical trials that assessed furosemide during COX inhibitor therapy for PDA in preterm infants. The primary outcome measure was PDA closure failure. Mortality and other complications were also assessed. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane risk‐of‐bias tool for randomized control trials, and the certainty of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation criteria.

Results

Overall, three trials involving 121 patients were included in the analysis. The overall incidence of PDA closure failure was 28%. Although the result of PDA closure failure, mortality, and ARF were obtained, other outcomes were not described in any of the studies. The risk of bias was high. The risk of PDA closure failure did not increase with furosemide administration. Furosemide was not associated with decreased mortality but was associated with an increased risk of ARF (risk ratio, 4.96 [95% confidence interval: 1.80–13.6]). The certainty of evidence for all outcomes was very low.

Conclusion

Although furosemide is not associated with an increased risk of PDA closure failure or mortality, the risk of ARF increases after furosemide administration during COX inhibitor therapy.
Types and timing of trauma exposure across the life course and maternal hypertension
Authors: Stanhope Kaitlyn K. , Michopoulos Vasiliki , Powers Abigail , Boulet Sheree L. , Kramer Michael R. , Suglia Shakira F.
Published: October 2024

Background

Exposure to trauma across the life course may be associated with cardio‐metabolic dysfunction during pregnancy; however, previous research has been inconsistent, particularly in highly exposed populations.

Objectives

To estimate associations between types and timing (first occurrence) of trauma exposure and hypertension experienced during pregnancy in a safety‐net hospital in Atlanta, Georgia, 2011–2022.

Methods

Participants completed a 14‐item trauma screener. We linked that information to data from the medical record on hypertension (including chronic hypertension, gestational hypertension or preeclampsia). We fit logistic regression models and used the estimates to calculate risk ratios for each trauma type and each critical window (0–9 years, 10–19 and 20+). We fit unadjusted models and adjusted for age, parity and education.

Results

We included 704 individuals with a delivery within 12 months following screening. The majority (94%, 661) reported at least one traumatic event, most commonly witnessing violence (79.4%). Overall, 18% experienced gestational hypertension, 10.8% chronic hypertension and 11.9% preeclampsia. Among individuals who reported trauma, 31.5% screened positive for probable posttraumatic stress disorder and 30.9% for probable depression, compared to 0 and 2.3% among those without reported trauma. No trauma type (violence, witnessing violence, non‐interpersonal or sexual assault) was associated with increased hypertensive risk, regardless of timing.

Conclusions

In this sample with a high trauma and hypertension burden, trauma was not associated with an elevated risk of hypertension during pregnancy, despite a high burden of PTSD and depressive symptoms among people with trauma exposure.
Women exposed to famine in early gestation have increased mortality up to age 76 years
Authors: Wiegersma Aline Marileen , Roseboom Tessa J. , de Rooij Susanne R.
Published: October 2024

Background

We have previously shown that exposure to famine in early gestation was associated with poorer adult health and, in women, with reduced survival up to age 64.

Objectives

Here, we explore the association between prenatal famine exposure and mortality up to age 76 for men and women separately.

Methods

We studied adult mortality (>18 years) in men (n = 989) and women (n = 1002) born as term singletons around the time of the 1944–1945 Dutch famine. We compared overall and cause‐specific mortality among men and women exposed to famine in late, mid, or early gestation to that among unexposed persons (born before or conceived after the famine) using Cox regression.

Results

In total, 500 persons (25.1%) had died after age 18. Women exposed to famine in early gestation had higher overall (HR 1.49, 95% CI 1.00, 2.23), cancer (HR 2.17, 95% CI 1.32,3.58) and cardiovascular mortality (HR 2.33, 95% CI 0.91, 5.95) compared to unexposed women. Mortality rates among men were not different between exposure groups.

Conclusion

This study showed that women, but not men, exposed to famine in early gestation had increased overall, cardiovascular and cancer mortality up to age 76. Although prenatal famine exposure affects adult health of both men and women, it seems to only lead to increased mortality among women.
Passive revegetation limited by seed availability in a salt marsh sediment addition site
Authors: Richardson Parker , Whitcraft Christine R. , Thorson Brian
Published: October 2024

Many approaches to restoring salt marsh habitats assume flora will naturally colonize the restoration site following the reinstatement of tidal hydrology that is appropriate for halophytes. However, this passive strategy can fail to meet restoration targets because of unfavorable site conditions and/or limited propagule dispersal. This study analyzes propagule availability in a restored southern California salt marsh that experienced slow passive revegetation following sediment addition to combat subsidence‐driven habitat loss. We performed a seedling emergence experiment to assess the quantity and species composition of viable halophyte seeds in the restoration site compared to nearby established salt marsh habitat. Additionally, we irrigated seed bank samples with freshwater or saltwater to test the effects of restoration site salinity conditions on seedling emergence and survival. Due to the proximity of the restoration site to seed sources, we expected to find ample seeds within its seed bank. However, only two seedlings emerged from restoration site seed bank samples (collected over 1.18 m2 of soil surface area), compared to an average of 44.33 seedlings from control site samples. Control site samples receiving saltwater irrigation had similar quantities of seedlings emerge, but seedlings in salt water had a reduced survival rate compared to seedlings in the freshwater treatment. Overall, these results suggest that passive restoration should be paired with techniques that retain seeds, such as increasing the topographic complexity of the restoration site. However, in scenarios where salinity or elevation may limit seedling recruitment, active planting should be considered to speed restoration trajectories.
The Dignity of Nonworking Men*
Authors: Halpern‐Meekin Sarah , Cho Seungmi L. , Landrum Grace , Talkington Adam
Published: October 2024

Studies have demonstrated the centrality of work and dignity in men's understanding of themselves and their place in society, especially in rural areas. However, previous studies of work and identity among men have generally drawn from the perspectives of the employed. From interviews with nonmetro prime‐age men (25–54 years old) who were out of the formal labor force (N = 61), we find that men present themselves as deserving of dignified treatment. They do so by drawing on the values of work—describing themselves as skilled, hard workers with a strong sense of personal responsibility. Ironically, this sense of self‐worth can conflict with them remaining in the formal labor force because of how they are treated and how others conduct themselves on the job. In this rural setting, hegemonic market‐based values guide men even when outside the institution of work, yet some men find they can only resolve tension between these values and the realities of employment outside the formal labor market.
Tracing the Conflict Between Türkiye and Syria Through the Turkish Mainstream Media's Coverage of the Syrian President Bashar al‐Assad
Authors: Kayıhan Bahar , Şenyüz Bilge , Şahin Fatma Kübra , Uğurlu Nihan Beray
Published: October 2024

The Syrian civil war began in March 2011 and spread throughout the country in April 2011. Therefore, in this study news articles and columns published in 2011 were selected and analyzed through purposive sampling. This study uses content analysis to examine the coverage of Syrian President Bashar al‐Assad in mainstream print newspapers with different ideological orientations in Türkiye. The theoretical framework of this study is based on the concept of localization of foreign news. The research has the potential to reveal both the transformation of the tone of media texts over time and the similarities and differences in the coverage of an international conflict by newspapers with different ideological orientations. Despite ideological differences, the study reveals similarities in the orientation of the newspapers studied toward local interests. The dominance of Turkish officials as news actors, the limited portrayal of Syrian security forces, and the selection of photographs reinforce the parallel stance with Turkish foreign policy. The media's tone toward Assad and Syrian politics became more negative and critical as the conflict escalated.
Cold Plasma Ameliorates Imiquimod‐Induced Psoriasis‐Like Skin Inflammation in Mice
Authors: Kim Yu‐Jin , Kim Beom Joon , Seok Joon , Han Hye Sung , Yoo Kwang Ho , Choi Sun Young
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Cold plasma has shown efficacy in various dermatological applications by reduces inflammatory responses and modulating cytokine expression. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects of cold plasma on psoriasis.

Methods

In psoriasis HaCaT cells with cold plasma, we confirmed the expression of inflammatory cytokines involved in psoriasis formation and MAPK pathway, cell cycle, and apoptosis‐related factors. In psoriasis‐like BALB/c mice model, the effects of cold plasma treatment on skin were visually assessed. The expression of psoriasis‐related factors was confirmed through qPCR, Western blotting, and Immunohistochemistry.

Results

Cold plasma led to a reduction in inflammatory cytokines including IL‐17A, IL‐23A, IL‐24, IL‐1β, and TNF‐α in the psoriasis cell line. It also modulated factors involved in the MAPK pathway and the cell cycle. In the psoriasis‐like mice model, cold plasma resulted in improvements in skin thickness, erythema, scaling, and PASI. Additionally, decreases in inflammatory cytokines like INF‐γ, IL‐23, and S100a7 were observed, along with improvements in MAPK pathway activation, apoptosis, and other psoriasis‐related factors.

Conclusion

Through in vitro and in vivo studies, our research highlights the potential of cold plasma as a novel therapeutic approach for psoriasis. Furthermore, cold plasma could serve as an adjunctive treatment for skin immunological diseases.
Ability to do otherwise, reasons, and causes
Authors: Milczarek Karol
Published: October 2024

What does it tell us about the compatibility of freedom and determinism to recognize that, while acting freely, we typically have good reasons for whatever we are doing? More than it seems, I suppose. In this paper, it is argued that two well‐established accounts of human freedom—libertarianism and local miracle compatibilism—understate the connection between reasons and actions, leaving us only with the causal part of the explanation. This is so because on the basis of these views, a majority of alternate actions relevant for the ascription of the ability to do otherwise turn out to be either unreasonable or irrational. Hence, by denying that free agents possess an ability to do otherwise rationally, these accounts fail to provide an adequate characterization of free action. Then, it is shown that the necessary requirement of reasons‐responsiveness may be satisfied by the altered‐reasons analysis of the ability to do otherwise. This particular kind of multiple‐past compatibilism, while providing a plausible response to the incompatibilist argument, also corresponds to a version of conditional analysis that is resistant to the classical objections to desire‐, choice‐, or try‐based conditionalism.