bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trajectory of left ventricular ejection fraction in response to therapies in patients with muscular dystrophy
Authors: Nikhanj Anish , Kashyap Niharika , Wang Kaiming , Phan Cecile L. , Siddiqi Zaeem A. , Becher Harald , Oudit Gavin Y.
Published: October 2022

Background

Patients with muscular dystrophy (MD) are at elevated risk of serious cardiac complications and clinical assessment is limited due to inherent physical limitations. We assessed the utility of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) derived from transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) as a prognostic marker for major adverse cardiac events (MACE) in a mixed adult MD cohort.

Methods

One hundred and sixty‐five MD patients (median age: 36 (interquartile range [IQR]: 23.0–49.0) years; 65 [39.4%] females) were enrolled in our prospective cohort study. Diagnoses included dystrophinopathies (n = 42), limb‐girdle MD (n = 31), type 1 myotonic dystrophy (n = 71), and facioscapulohumeral MD (n = 21). Left ventricular ejection fraction, ventricular dimensions at end‐diastole and end‐systole, and serial measures (n = 124; follow‐up period: 2.19 [IQR: 1.05–3.32] years) stratified patients for MACE risk.

Results

Cardiomyopathy was diagnosed in 60 (36.4%) patients of the broader cohort (median LVEF: 45.0 [IQR: 35.0–50.0] %). Ninety‐eight MACE occurred over the 7‐year study period. At baseline, patients with a LVEF < 55.0% had a high risk of MACE (adjusted odds ratio: 8.30; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.18–21.7), concordant with the analysis of LV dimensions. Forty‐one percent of these patients showed an improvement in LVEF with the optimization of medical and device therapies. Relative to patients with preserved LVEF, patients with reduced LVEF were at an elevated risk of MACE (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]: 7.21; 95% CI: 1.99–26.1), and improved LVEF resulted in comparable outcomes (aHR: 1.84; 95% CI: .49–6.91) associated with optimization of medical and device therapies. Reduction in QRS duration by CRT therapy was associated with an improvement in LVEF (average improvement: 12.8 [± 2.30] %; p = .04).

Conclusions

Reduction in LVEF indicates an increased risk of cardiovascular events in patients with MD. Baseline and serial LVEF obtained by TTE can prognosticate patients for MACE and guide clinical management.
Isolating the impact of antipsychotic medication on metabolic health: Secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial of antipsychotic medication versus placebo in antipsychotic medication naïve first‐episode psychosis (the STAGES study)
Authors: O'Donoghue Brian , Allott Kelly , Harrigan Susy , Scalzo Franco , Ward Janine , Mallawaarachchi Sumudu , Whitson Sarah , Baldwin Lara , Graham Jessica , Mullen Edward , MacNeil Craig , Alexander Dylan , Wood Stephen J. , Berk Michael , Alvarez‐Jimenez Mario , Thompson Andrew , Fornito Alex , Yuen Hok Pan , Nelson Barnaby , Francey Shona M. , McGorry Patrick
Published: October 2022

Background

Cardiovascular and metabolic diseases are the leading contributors to the early mortality associated with psychotic disorders. To date, it has not been possible to disentangle the effect of medication and non‐medication factors on the physical health of people with a first episode of psychosis (FEP). This study aimed to isolate the effects of antipsychotic medication on anthropometric measurements, fasting glucose and lipids.

Methods

This study utilized data from a triple‐blind randomized placebo‐controlled trial comparing two groups of antipsychotic‐naïve young people with a FEP who were randomized to receive a second‐generation antipsychotic medication (FEP‐medication group) or placebo (FEP‐placebo group) for 6 months. Twenty‐seven control participants were also recruited.

Results

Eighty‐one participants commenced the trial; 69.1% completed at least 3 months of the intervention and 33.3% completed the full 6 months. The FEP‐placebo group gained a mean of 2.4 kg (±4.9) compared to 1.1 kg (±4.9) in the control participants (t = 0.76, p = .45). After controlling for multiple analyses, there was no difference in blood pressure, waist circumference or heart rate between the FEP‐placebo group and controls. After 6 months, the FEP medication group had gained 4.1 kg (±4.5), higher than those receiving placebo but not statistically significant (t = 0.8, p = .44). There were no differences in fasting glucose or lipids between the FEP groups after 3 months.

Conclusions

While limited by small numbers and high attrition, these findings indicate that some of the metabolic complications observed in psychotic disorders could be attributable to factors other than medication. This emphasizes the need to deliver physical health interventions early in the course of FEP.
Internet addiction is associated with psychological distress in highly schizotypal students
Authors: Fekih‐Romdhane Feten , Away Rami , Jahrami Haitham , Cheour Majda
Published: October 2022

Background

There is some limited evidence of an association between technology addictions and emergence of pre‐psychotic symptoms, high psychoticism, psychotic like experiences and high schizotypy among young non‐clinical adults. These addictions and their subsequent distress are likely to contribute to transition to psychosis in individuals at risk. We aimed to compare smartphone, Internet and Facebook addictions between low and high schizotypal individuals; and to explore the association between these addictions and distress in the high schizotypy group.

Methods

From a pool of 700 students, the final sample consisted of 74 low schizotypal and 70 high schizotypal students. The Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire, the Bergen Facebook Addiction Scale, the Internet Addiction Test, the Smartphone Addiction Scale‐Short Version and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scales.

Results

Students of the high schizotypy group displayed significantly greater scores on smartphone (p < .001), Internet (p < .001) and Facebook (p = .001) addictions scales, as compared to those of the low schizotypy group. After controlling for potential confounders, Internet addiction predicted psychological distress in the high schizotypy group (R2 = 0.380, F(13,55) = 2.597, p < .001) and explained an additional 19.7% of variation in Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scales total scores in the final model.

Conclusion

Although preliminary, our findings shed light on relatively new avenues for prevention and early intervention in psychosis. It is recommended to raise awareness about Internet addiction risks, particularly among vulnerable young adults; and to find ways to turn Internet into a protective rather than stressor factor, by utilizing it as a resource in the care pathway.
Dispersal plasticity driven by variation in fitness across species and environmental gradients
Authors: Campana Julie L. M. , Raffard Allan , Chaine Alexis S. , Huet Michèle , Legrand Delphine , Jacob Staffan
Published: October 2022

Dispersal plasticity, when organisms adjust their dispersal decisions depending on their environment, can play a major role in ecological and evolutionary dynamics, but how it relates to fitness remains scarcely explored. Theory predicts that high dispersal plasticity should evolve when environmental gradients have a strong impact on fitness. Using microcosms, we tested in five species of the genusTetrahymenawhether dispersal plasticity relates to differences in fitness sensitivity along three environmental gradients. Dispersal plasticity was species‐ and environment‐dependent. As expected, dispersal plasticity was generally related to fitness sensitivity, with higher dispersal plasticity when fitness is more affected by environmental gradients. Individuals often preferentially disperse out of low fitness environments, but leaving environments that should yield high fitness was also commonly observed. We provide empirical support for a fundamental, but largely untested, assumption in dispersal theory: the extent of dispersal plasticity correlates with fitness sensitivity to the environment.
Behavioral manipulation in two sheet web weaver‐spider by the parasitoid wasp, Eruga unilabiana Pádua & Sobczak, 2018 (hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae)
Authors: Pereira Luis Campili , Villanueva‐Bonilla German Antonio , Azevedo Raul , Sobczak Jober Fernando
Published: October 2022

The ability of some organisms to manipulate the behavior, physiology, and morphology of other individuals to increase the chances of survival and reproduction is well known among animals with a parasitic lifestyle. In the present study we (i) report the interaction between the parasitoid wasp Eruga unilabiana and the host spider Eurymorion sp. (Linyphiidae) for the first time (plus Sphecozone sp. (Linyphiidae)), (ii) describe the normal and cocoon webs of Eurymorion sp. induced by larvae of the penultimate instar of E. unilabiana, (iii) quantify the differences between the structures of normal and cocoon webs of Eurymorion sp. and Sphecozone sp. spiders, and (iv) describe the behavior of two spider species under influence of the penultimate instar larvae of E. unilabiana. The cocoon webs built by parasitized Eurymorion sp. are structurally similar to those of Sphecozone sp. induced by the same parasitoid species. The areas of the sheets and the length of the interception threads of the cocoon webs were significantly smaller than those of normal webs. Several individuals of the two species of host spiders are induced to abandon their normal webs to build a cocoon web from scratch, a rare behavior in non‐parasitized individuals.
Epilepsy and its neurobehavioral comorbidities: Insights gained from animal models
Authors: Löscher Wolfgang , Stafstrom Carl E.
Published: October 2022

It is well established that epilepsy is associated with numerous neurobehavioral comorbidities, with a bidirectional relationship; people with epilepsy have an increased incidence of depression, anxiety, learning and memory difficulties, and numerous other psychosocial challenges, and the occurrence of epilepsy is higher in individuals with those comorbidities. Although the cause‐and‐effect relationship is uncertain, a fuller understanding of the mechanisms of comorbidities within the epilepsies could lead to improved therapeutics. Here, we review recent data on epilepsy and its neurobehavioral comorbidities, discussing mainly rodent models, which have been studied most extensively, and emphasize that clinically relevant information can be gained from preclinical models. Furthermore, we explore the numerous potential factors that may confound the interpretation of emerging data from animal models, such as the specific seizure induction method (e.g., chemical, electrical, traumatic, genetic), the role of species and strain, environmental factors (e.g., laboratory environment, handling, epigenetics), and the behavioral assays that are chosen to evaluate the various aspects of neural behavior and cognition. Overall, the interplay between epilepsy and its neurobehavioral comorbidities is undoubtedly multifactorial, involving brain structural changes, network‐level differences, molecular signaling abnormalities, and other factors. Animal models are well poised to help dissect the shared pathophysiological mechanisms, neurological sequelae, and biomarkers of epilepsy and its comorbidities.
Deep learning‐based smishing message identification using regular expression feature generation
Authors: Sharaff Aakanksha , Pathak Vrihas , Paul Siddhartha Shankar
Published: October 2022

The increase in the number of undesired SMS termed smishing message and the data imbalance problem has generated a great demand for the development of more reliable anti‐spam filters. State of the art machine learning approaches are being employed to recognize and separate spam messages. Most recent studies target message classification by using numerous properties and features of the words but fail to consider the circumstantial features like long‐range dependencies between the words that are extremely important in identifying smishing messages. The idea is to develop an intelligent model that will distinguish between smishing messages and ham messages, by adopting a combined approach of regular expression (Regex), machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) models. Regex rules are generated using the dataset's spam messages for the purpose of refining the dataset. Support vector machine (SVM), Multinomial Naive Bayes and Random Forest are included under machine learning models and long short‐term memory (LSTM), bidirectional long short‐term memory (Bi‐LSTM), stacked LSTM and stacked Bi‐LSTM are included under deep learning models. The comparison between machine learning models and deep learning models is also carried out based on the performance evaluation parameters namely accuracy, precision, recall and F1 score of the models. It is observed that deep learning models perform better than machine learning models and the introduction of a regular expression to the dataset increases the efficiency of both the deep learning models and machine learning models.
Low cycle fatigue behavior of Cu‐Cr‐Zr alloy with different cold deformation
Authors: Chen Jinshui , Xiao Xiangpeng , Xiong Shujun , Wang Junfeng , Huang Hao , Yang Bin
Published: October 2022

The present study addressed the cyclic deformation behavior and fatigue properties of Cu‐0.69Cr‐0.07Zr alloy with different cold deformation (ε = 64%, 75%, and 84%) using low cycle fatigue test. Low cycle fatigue tests were conducted under fully‐reversed conditions at different total strain amplitudes. The microstructure changes and fatigue fracture characteristics were analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The main findings suggest that the Bauschinger effect was significantly stronger with larger deformation at low total strain amplitude. And it was proved that the relationship between the total strain amplitude and the low cycle fatigue life of Cu‐Cr‐Zr alloy with different deformation can be expressed by the Manson–Coffin–Basquin formula. Further, the reason for the fatigue life was shorter and the cyclic softening rate decreased faster at high applied total strain amplitude was that the dislocation density decreased due to the rearrangement of the dislocations.
A generalized model for dynamic mixed‐mode fracture via state‐based peridynamics
Authors: Mirsayar Mirmilad
Published: October 2022

A generalized model is developed to investigate dynamic crack propagation in isotropic solids under mixed‐mode I/II conditions using state‐based peridynamics. The critical stretch and the critical strain energy release rate (ERR) are related within the state‐based peridynamic framework to construct a computational model capable of capturing fracture energy of the kinked cracks. A novel formulation is presented to predict crack growth trajectory and pattern by combining the traditional expression of ERR and the peridynamic states of the crack opening and sliding displacements. The proposed model is used to predict dynamic fracture behavior in polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and soda‐lime glass using various test specimens, including cracked semi‐circular bending (SCB), cracked rectangular plate, and single edge‐notched tensile (SENT) specimens, and under different dynamic loading conditions. The developed model is examined against the numerical and experimental data available in the literature, and a very good agreement is observed.
Information of employee decisions and stock returns in the Korean stock market
Authors: Bae Jaewan , Kang Jangkoo
Published: October 2022

We study the role of rank‐and‐file employees on asset prices in the Korean stock market using monthly labor flow data from the national pension subscription descriptions. We find that firms experiencing high net labor outflows have lower future risk‐adjusted returns. This return predictability is found to originate mainly from gross labor outflows. We further show that the workers' labor market decisions better reflect information on the firms' fundamentals when firm sales are greater related to wages or when workers can more easily transfer to better jobs. Finally, we confirm the workers' ability to predict firm performance.
Coping strategies among women exposed to Gender‐Based violence in Turkey
Authors: Zonp Zeynep , Ozturk Burcu , Guler Ayse , Arnault Denise Saint
Published: October 2022

Aim

To understand coping strategies used by women experiencing gender‐based violence and living in Turkey. Coping is a cognitive and behavioural strategy that individuals develop to manage stress, generally categorized as emotion‐focused or problem‐focused coping. Women exposed to gender‐based violence develop various coping strategies to manage stress and its adverse mental and physical health effects.

Design

Qualitative study using the phenomenological approach.

Methods

Data were collected in Turkey by using the snowball technique (n = 17) between September 2019 and September 2020. The Clinical Ethnographic Narrative Interview is the source of the qualitative data for this study. Data were coded manually and utilized the RADAR technique.

Results

Seventeen women aged 25–40 were included in this analysis. Women stated that they were exposed to more than one type of gender‐based violence according to their lived experiences. Analysis of the nature of coping strategies revealed five main themes. The themes were self‐competence, separation from others/isolation, getting professional help, having faith and social support.

Conclusion

Breaking the silence and listening to gender‐based violence experiences from survivors' voices contribute significantly to literature. There was a dearth of research on Turkish women's gender‐based violence survivors; the research intended to address that gap. The participants highlighted that they would like to receive more attention and felt relief in sharing their experiences.

Impact

The Clinical Ethnographic Narrative Interview is a great tool to explore narratives of gender‐based violence and coping skills of women. The study explored coping strategies of Turkish women's gender‐based violence survivors. The participants indicated their emotion‐focused and problem‐solving coping strategies and shared their stories. This study will enhance efforts to concentrate on gender‐based violence among Turkish women and inspire other researchers, practitioners and policymakers to change and provide more opportunities for the benefit and well‐being of these women.
Comparative phylogeography in the genomic age: Opportunities and challenges
Authors: McGaughran Angela , Liggins Libby , Marske Katharine A. , Dawson Michael N , Schiebelhut Lauren M. , Lavery Shane D. , Knowles L. Lacey , Moritz Craig , Riginos Cynthia
Published: October 2022

Aim

We consider the opportunities and challenges comparative phylogeography (CP) faces in the genomic age to determine: (1) how we can maximise the potential of big CP analyses to advance biogeographic and macroevolutionary theory; and (2) what we can, and will struggle, to achieve using CP approaches in this era of genomics.

Location

World‐wide.

Taxon

All.

Methods

We review the literature to discuss the future of CP ‐ particularly examining CP insights enabled by genomics that may not be possible for single species and/or few molecular markers. We focus on how geography and species' natural histories interact to yield congruent and incongruent patterns of neutral and adaptive processes in the context of both historical and recent rapid evolution. We also consider how CP genomic data are being stored, accessed, and shared.

Results

With the widespread availability of genomic data, the shift from a single‐ to a multi‐locus perspective is resulting in detailed historical inferences and an improved statistical rigour in phylogeography. However, the time and effort required for collecting co‐distributed species and accruing species‐specific ecological knowledge continue to be limiting factors. Bioinformatic skills and user‐friendly analytical tools, alongside the computational infrastructure required for big data, can also be limiting.

Main conclusions

Over the last ~35 years, there has been much progress in understanding how intraspecific genetic variation is geographically distributed. The next major steps in CP will be to incorporate evolutionary processes and community perspectives to account for patterns and responses among co‐distributed species and across temporal scales, including those related to anthropogenic change. However, the full potential of CP will only be realised if we employ robust study designs within a sound comparative framework. We advocate that phylogeographers adopt such consistent approaches to enhance future comparisons to present‐day findings.
Using crowdsourced photographic records to explore geographical variation in colour polymorphism
Authors: Farquhar Jules E. , Pili Arman , Russell Wyn
Published: October 2022

Aim

In wide‐ranging taxa occupying broad climate gradients, alternative colour pattern variants (i.e. morphs) may emerge as an adaptive response to local climatic regimes. We explore the patterns of geographical segregation among colour morphs of the Lace monitor and determine whether morphs occupy divergent climatic niches along a mesic–arid gradient.

Location

Eastern and south‐eastern Australia.

Taxon

Varanus varius.

Methods

We compiled a dataset of crowdsourced, georeferenced photographic records (n = 1637) of V. varius and scored each photographed lizard as one of two discrete colour pattern phenotypes—Lace morph (mostly dark with fine pale patterning) or Bell's morph (broad yellow and black bands). We then analysed the geographical segregation of colour morphs under an exploratory point‐pattern process analysis framework. Finally, we quantified similarities and differences between each colour morphs' realised climatic niche in univariate and multivariate (i.e. Centroid shift, Overlap, Unfilling, and Expansion and n‐dimensional hypervolume frameworks) environmental space.

Results

While both morphs co‐occur over much of the species' range, there is a coastal–inland clinal transition in the relative densities of the morphs' occurrences—the Bell's morph becomes the more prevalent phenotype towards inland locations and is rare or absent towards coastal regions. Analysis of the realised climatic niches shows that the Bell's morph exploits areas that are relatively more arid, receive more solar irradiation and experience a broader range of thermal extremes than those occupied by the Lace morph.

Main conclusions

The mesic–arid transition zone in eastern Australia is a primary axis of environmental variation over which geographical variation in colour polymorphism has emerged in V. varius. More broadly, this study demonstrates how photographs from citizen science platforms can be used to explore geographical variation in colour polymorphisms without needing to conduct expensive, time‐consuming field studies on wild organisms.
Hypertensive emergencies in Asia: A brief review
Authors: Kotruchin Praew , Tangpaisarn Thanat , Mitsungnern Thapanawong , Sukonthasarn Apichard , Hoshide Satoshi , Turana Yuda , Siddique Saulat , Buranakitjaroen Peera , Van Huynh Minh , Chia Yook‐Chin , Park Sungha , Chen Chen‐Huan , Nailes Jennifer , Tay Jam Chin , Wang Ji‐Guang , Kario Kazuomi
Published: October 2022

Hypertensive emergency is one of the most challenging conditions to treat in the emergency department (ED). From previous studies, about 1%–3% of hypertensive individuals experienced hypertensive emergencies. Its prevalence varied by country and region throughout Asia. Asian populations have more different biological and cultural backgrounds than Caucasians and even within Asian countries. However, there is a scarcity of research on clinical features, treatment, and outcomes in multinational Asian populations. The authors aimed to review the current evidence about epidemiology, clinical characteristics and outcomes, and practice guidelines in Asia.

Five observational studies and nine clinical practice guidelines across Asia were reviewed. The prevalence of hypertensive emergencies ranged from .1% to 1.5%. Stroke was the most common target organ involvement in Asians who presented with hypertensive emergencies. Although most hypertensive emergency patients required hospitalization, the mortality rate was low. Given the current lack of data among Asian countries, a multinational data repository and Asian guidelines on hypertensive emergency management are mandatory.
Targets and management of hypertension in heart failure: focusing on the stages of heart failure
Authors: Miao Huanhuan , Zou Changhong , Yang Shijie , Chia Yook‐Chin , Van Huynh Minh , Sogunuru Guru Prasad , Tay Jam Chin , Wang Tzung‐Dau , Kario Kazuomi , Zhang Yuqing
Published: October 2022

Hypertension is highly prevalent worldwide and is the major risk factor for heart failure (HF). More than half of the patients with HF in Asia suffer from hypertension. According to the 2022 American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology/Heart Failure Society of America HF guideline, there are four stages of HF, including at risk for HF (stage A), pre‐HF (stage B), symptomatic HF (stage C), and advanced HF (stage D). Given the high prevalence of hypertension as well as HF and the stronger association between hypertension and cardiovascular diseases in Asians compared to the west, measures to prevent and alleviate the progression to clinical HF, especially controlling the blood pressure (BP), are of priority for Asian populations. After reviewing evidence‐based studies, we propose a BP target of less than 130/80 mmHg for patients at stages A, B, and C. However, relatively higher BP may represent an opportunity to maximize guideline‐directed medical therapy (GDMT), which could potentially result in a better prognosis for patients at stage D. Traditional antihypertensive drugs are the cornerstones for the management of hypertension at stages A and B. Notably, calcium channel blockers (CCBs) are inferior to other drug classes for the preventing of HF, whereas diuretics are superior to others. For patients at stage C, GDMT is essential which also helps the control of BP. In particular, sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are newer therapies recommended for the treatment of HF and presumably even in hypertension to prevent HF. Regarding patients at stage D, GDMT is also recommended if tolerable and measures should be taken to improve hemodynamics.
The HOPE Asia network 2022 up‐date consensus statement on morning hypertension management
Authors: Kario Kazuomi , Wang Ji‐Guang , Chia Yook‐Chin , Wang Tzung‐Dau , Li Yan , Siddique Saulat , Shin Jinho , Turana Yuda , Buranakitjaroen Peera , Chen Chen‐Huan , Cheng Hao‐Min , Van Huynh Minh , Nailes Jennifer , Sukonthasarn Apichard , Zhang Yuqing , Sison Jorge , Soenarta Arieska Ann , Park Sungha , Sogunuru Guru Prasad , Tay Jam Chin , Teo Boon Wee , Tsoi Kelvin , Verma Narsingh , Hoshide Satoshi
Published: October 2022

Morning hypertension is an important clinical target in the management of hypertension for perfect 24‐h blood pressure (BP) control. Morning hypertension is generally categorized into two types: “morning surge” type and “sustained nocturnal and morning hypertension” type. The “morning surge” type is characterized by an exaggerated morning blood pressure surge (MBPS), and the “sustained nocturnal and morning hypertension” type with continuous hypertension from nighttime to morning (non‐dipper/riser type). They can be detected by home and ambulatory blood pressure measurements (HBPM and ABPM). These two forms of morning hypertension both increase the risk of cardiovascular and renal diseases, but may occur via different pathogenic mechanisms and are associated with different conditions. Morning hypertension should be treated to achieve a morning BP level of < 135/85 mmHg, regardless of the office BP. The second target morning BP levels is < 125/75 mmHg for high‐risk patients with morning hypertension and concomitant diseases. Morning hypertension is more frequently found in Asians, than in Westerners. Thus, the management of morning hypertension is especially important in Asia. The detection of morning hypertension and the individual home BP‐guided treatment approach targeting morning BP in combination with ABPM, and the optimal treatment of morning hypertension would reduce cardiovascular events in Asia.
Role of α1‐blockers in the current management of hypertension
Authors: Li Hua , Xu Ting‐Yan , Li Yan , Chia Yook‐Chin , Buranakitjaroen Peera , Cheng Hao‐Min , Van Huynh Minh , Sogunuru Guru Prasad , Tay Jam Chin , Wang Tzung‐Dau , Kario Kazuomi , Wang Ji‐Guang
Published: October 2022

There is emerging evidence that α1‐blockers can be safely used in the treatment of hypertension. These drugs can be used in almost all hypertensive patients for blood pressure control. However, there are several special indications. Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a compelling indication of α1‐blockers, because of the dual treatment effect on both high blood pressure and lower urinary tract symptoms. Many patients with resistant hypertension would require α1‐blockers as add‐on therapy. Primary aldosteronism screen is a rapidly increasing clinical demand in the management of hypertension, where α1‐blockers are useful for blood pressure control in the preparation for the measurement of plasma aldosterone and renin. Nonetheless, α1‐blockers have to be used under several considerations. Among the currently available agents, only long‐acting α1‐blockers, such as doxazosin gastrointestinal therapeutic system 4–8 mg daily and terazosin 2–4 mg daily, should be chosen. Orthostatic hypotension is a concern with the use of α1‐blockers especially in the elderly, and requires careful initial bedtime dosing and avoiding overdosing. Fluid retention is potentially also a concern, which may be overcome by combining an α1‐blocker with a diuretic.
Arterial stiffness nomogram identification by cluster analysis: A new approach of vascular phenotype modeling
Authors: Vallée Alexandre
Published: October 2022

Arterial stiffness, measured by arterial stiffness index (ASI), can be considered as a major denominator in cardiovascular diseases. Thus, it remains essential to highlight patient phenotyping profiles with high ASI values. A nomogram of arterial stiffness was evaluated by calculation of ASI nomogram. Theoretical ASI can be performed according to age, sex, mean blood pressure, and heart rate, allowing to form an individual ASI nomogram [(measured ASI – theoretical ASI)/theoretical ASI]. An ASI nomogram > 0 defined AS. This study investigates among UK Biobank participants without cardiovascular diseases, the hypothesis that K‐means cluster analysis can be used to identify homogeneous phenotyping subgroups of participants according to ASI levels and then, the phenotype differences observed between these clusters. ASI nomogram was applied on 132 851 participants. K‐means clustering was implemented with 10 clusters (optimal CCC value of 105.246). One cluster showed 100% rate of AS, corresponding to 25 393 participants (41.6% of the AS participants) with ASI nomogram = .26 (.22), ASI = 11.6 (2.3)m/s. A second cluster showed a 100% of non‐AS, corresponding to 27 844 participants (38.8% of the participants with no arterial stiffness) with ASI nomogram = ‐.22 (.13), ASI = 7.1 (1.44)m/s. Threshold values of independent factors for differencing these two clusters were total cholesterol > 5.409 mmol/L (P < .001), triglycerides > 1.286 mmol/L (P < .001), smoking pack years > 11.8 pack/years, CRP > .99 (P < .001), daily alcohol consumption > 1.794 units/days and BMI > 26.641 kg/m2 (P < .001). Cluster analysis allowed to highlight homogeneous participants profile with or without AS. Determine the markers differencing these clusters participates in the management of cardiovascular preventive strategies.
Highlights of the 2022 Vietnamese Society of Hypertension guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of arterial hypertension
Authors: Van Minh Huynh , Van Huy Tran , Long Doan Pham Phuoc , Tien Hoang Anh
Published: October 2022

Hypertension is uncontrolled in over 50% hypertensive population in Vietnam which indicated a compelling need for new hypertension guidelines. The highlights were composed of three parts: the diagnosis of arterial hypertension, the recommendation of home blood pressure monitoring, and the treatment of hypertension. Our guideline applied flexibility based upon the “essential” and “optimal” concepts in the diagnosis and management of hypertensive patients according to the socio‐economic status of Vietnam. Hypertension is defined as an office systolic blood pressure ≥140 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mmHg which is equivalent to a 24‐hr ambulatory blood pressure monitoring average of ≥130/80 mmHg or home blood pressure monitoring average of ≥135/85 mmHg. We established an integrated hypertensive diagnostic algorithm for adults with the optimal option by the role of out‐of‐office blood pressure measurement, especially home blood pressure monitoring, which is fully recommended in this guideline. The threshold and target of hypertension treatment were individualized in safety range and effective evidence‐based medicine. We also update for the management of resistant hypertension, hypertension in diabetic patients, hypertension with heart failure, and with other comorbidities. Vietnam has tried on the best strategy for improving the control of hypertension and recently received several achievements in the world, especially in the Asian region. Because the conditions for conducting our national data have not been fully conducted, we have to adapt from existing guidelines so there are still certain limitations that need to be supplemented and adjusted in the upcoming version.
Engrailed homeobox 1 transcriptional regulation of COL22A1 inhibits nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell senescence through the G1/S phase arrest
Authors: Huang Mao‐Ling , Luo Wen‐Long
Published: October 2022

EN1 is well known as a transcription factor in other tumours, but its role in NPC is unclear. In this study, we first used bioinformatics to analyse GEO data to obtain the differentially expressed gene EN1, and subsequently verified that EN1 was highly expressed in nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells by tissue microarrays as well as cell lines. Further, we down‐regulated the expression of EN1 in cells for RNA sequencing. The analysis of sequencing results using KEGG and GO revealed significant changes in cell proliferation and cycle function after downregulation of EN1. Meanwhile, we found that cells underwent senescence after inhibition of EN1 under electron microscopy and the SA‐β‐gal assays. Based on the sequencing results, we verified that EN1 can promote the proliferation and cycle of NPC cells in cell function experiments and animal experiments. To investigate how EN1 affects cell senescence, we found that EN1 transcriptional regulation of COL22A1 regulated cell proliferation and cycle via CDK4/6‐cyclin D1‐Rb signalling pathway by dual luciferase reporter, Immunoblotting and rescue experiment. Accordingly, we uncovered that EN1 could serve as a target for the regulation of senescence in NPC.
Pressure for rapid and accurate mate recognition promotes avian‐perceived plumage sexual dichromatism in true thrushes (genus: Turdus)
Authors: Luro Alec B. , Hauber Mark E.
Published: October 2022

Ecological conditions limiting the time to find a compatible mate or increasing the difficulty in doing so likely promote the evolution of traits used for species and mate recognition. In addition to interspecific character displacement signalling species identity, intraspecific traits that signal an individual's sex and breeding status reduce the challenge of identifying a compatible conspecific mate and should be more common in migratory rather than sedentary species, species with shorter breeding seasons and species breeding under high sympatry with many closely related heterospecifics. Here, we tested this recognition hypothesis for promoting plumage sexual dichromatism in the true thrushes (Turdus spp.), a large and diverse genus of passerine birds. We used receptor‐noise limited models of avian vision to quantify avian‐perceived chromatic and achromatic visual contrasts between male and female plumage patches and tested the influence of breeding season length, spatial distribution and sympatry with other Turdus species on plumage dichromatism. As predicted, we found that (1) true thrush species with migratory behaviour have greater plumage sexual dichromatism than non‐migratory species, (2) species with longer breeding seasons have less plumage sexual dichromatism, and (3) greater numbers of Turdus thrush species breeding in sympatry is associated with more plumage sexual dichromatism. These results suggest that social recognition systems, including species and mate recognition, play a prominent role in the evolution of plumage sexual dichromatism in true thrushes.
Isotopic niche alteration of a predator fish in a dammed Amazonian black water river
Authors: Aguiar‐Santos Jamerson , deHart Pieter A. P. , Forsberg Bruce R. , Freitas Carlos E. C.
Published: October 2022

Although many upstream effects of a dam on the trophic ecology of fish have been reported, little is known about their downstream effects on the isotopic niche of Amazonian predator fish. The authors used stable isotope analysis of δ13C and δ15N to determine the downstream effects of damming of the Uatumã River on the niche width, carbon energy sources and trophic position of peacock bass Cichla temensis comparing with a free‐flowing river in the Amazon basin, Brazil, during the peak flood and early falling water period of 2020. They found that the C. temensis population of the undammed river had a smaller niche width than the C. temensis population of the dammed river, despite the greater number of prey trophic levels utilized and the higher trophic position of C. temensis individuals. The results demonstrate that in both rivers there is a gradual shift in the contribution of prey fish sources to the diet of C. temensis throughout its growth, even among adult individuals. They conclude that the isotopic niche of C. temensis was altered by damming during the period of late high water to early low water in the Uatumã River.
Probiotic coffee ice cream as an innovative functional dairy food
Authors: Shazly Ahmed B. , Fouad Mohamed T. , Elaaser Mostafa , Sayed Rehab S. , Abd El‐Aziz Mahmoud
Published: October 2022

The use of concentrated coffee extract (CCE) with probiotic bacteria in the production of ice cream was evaluated as an innovative functional dairy food. The most prevalent phenolic compounds and B‐complex vitamins in CCE were chlorogenic acid and folic acid, with 7.39 and 4.67 mg/ml, respectively. CCF showed strong antibacterial activity against both gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria as well as fungi. Ice cream formulated with 3% CCE showed higher overrun (41.76%), fat destabilization (15.14%), and melting rate (1.19 g/min). The addition of probiotic bacteria Bifidobacterium breve Bb‐12 and Lactobacillus plantarum increased the mixture's viscosity, overrun and melting rate. CCE‐containing ice creams exhibited significant antioxidant activity against the DPPH and ABTS radicals, with the increase being proportional to the CCE content. In comparison to ice cream containing 5% CCE, ice cream containing 3% CCE, with and without probiotic bacteria, had a favorable brown color, a smoother texture, less bitterness, and the desired coffee flavor. It can be concluded that 3% CCE with probiotic bacteria can be used to produce a functional ice cream with the desired coffee flavor and rich in natural bioactive compounds such as phenols and vitamins.

Novelty impact statement

Probiotic coffee ice cream is a functional dairy food that contains necessary nutrients and is rich in phenolic compounds that display strong antioxidant and antimicrobial activity in addition to being supported by probiotic bacteria.

Probiotic coffee ice cream is a distinct type of ice cream with the desired coffee flavor for most consumers and it improves the mental state and helps burn calories.

In addition to its health benefits, the use of probiotic bacteria can improve the mixture's viscosity and increase the overrun of the resulting ice cream.
Psychological resilience in older adults with type 2 diabetes from the Look AHEAD Trial
Authors: Olson KayLoni L. , Howard Marjorie , McCaffery Jeanne M. , Dutton Gareth R. , Espeland Mark A. , Simpson Felicia R. , Johnson Karen C. , Munshi Medha , Wadden Thomas A. , Wing Rena R. ,   the Look AHEAD Research Group
Published: October 2022

Background

There is growing interest in identifying factors associated with healthy aging. This cross‐sectional study evaluated associations of psychological resilience with factors associated with aging in older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

Participants were 3199 adults (72.2 ± 6.2 years of age, 61% female, 61% White, body mass index [BMI] = 34.2 ± 8.2 kg/m2) with T2DM enrolled in Look AHEAD (a multi‐site randomized clinical trial comparing an intensive lifestyle intervention for weight loss to diabetes education and support). Participants were followed observationally after the 10‐year intervention was discontinued. The following items were assessed approximately 14.4 years post‐randomization in a cross‐sectional analysis: Brief Resilience Scale; overnight hospitalizations in past year; physical functioning measured objectively (gait speed, grip strength) and via self‐report (Pepper Assessment Tool for Disability; physical quality of life [QOL; SF‐36]); a measure of phenotypic frailty based on having ≥3 of unintentional weight loss, low energy, slow gait, reduced grip strength, and physical inactivity. Depressive symptoms (PHQ‐9) and mental QOL (SF‐36) were also measured. Logistic/linear/multinomial regression was used to evaluate the association of variables with resilience adjusted for age, race/ethnicity, and gender.

Results

Greater psychological resilience was associated with lower BMI, fewer hospitalizations, better physical functioning (i.e., lower self‐reported disability, better physical QOL, faster gait speed, greater grip strength, lower likelihood of frailty), fewer depressive symptoms, and greater mental QOL (all p < 0.05). Psychological resilience moderated the relationship of number of hospitalizations in the past year with self‐reported disability and grip strength.

Conclusions

Psychological resilience is associated with better physical function and QOL among older adults. Results should be interpreted cautiously given cross‐sectional nature of analyses. Exploring the clinical benefits of resilience is consistent with efforts to shift the narrative on aging beyond “loss and decline” to highlight opportunities to facilitate healthy aging.
Development and validation of a prediction model for persistent functional impairment among older ICU survivors
Authors: Ferrante Lauren E. , Murphy Terrence E. , Leo‐Summers Linda S. , O'Leary John R. , Vander Wyk Brent , Pisani Margaret A. , Gill Thomas M.
Published: October 2022

Background

Critical illness often leads to persistent functional impairment among older Intensive Care Unit (ICU) survivors. Identification of high‐risk survivors prior to discharge from their ICU hospitalization can facilitate targeting for restorative interventions after discharge, potentially improving the likelihood of functional recovery. Our objective was to develop and validate a prediction model for persistent functional impairment among older adults in the year after an ICU hospitalization.

Methods

The analytic sample included community‐living participants enrolled in the National Health and Aging Trends Study 2011 cohort who survived an ICU hospitalization through December 2017 and had a follow‐up interview within 1 year. Persistent functional impairment was defined as failure to recover to the pre‐ICU level of function within 12 months of discharge from an ICU hospitalization. We used Bayesian model averaging to identify the final predictors from a comprehensive set of 17 factors. Discrimination and calibration were assessed using area‐under‐the‐curve (AUC) and calibration plots.

Results

The development cohort included 456 ICU admissions (2,654,685 survey‐weighted admissions) and the validation cohort included 227 ICU admissions (1,350,082 survey‐weighted admissions). In the development cohort, the median age was 81.0 years (interquartile range [IQR] 76.0, 86.0) and 231 (50.7%) participants were women; demographic characteristics were comparable in the validation cohort. The rates of persistent functional impairment were 49.3% (development) and 50.2% (validation). The final model included age, pre‐ICU disability, probable dementia, frailty, prior hospitalizations, vision impairment, depressive symptoms, and hospital length of stay. The model demonstrated good discrimination (AUC 71%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.66–0.76) and good calibration. When applied to the validation cohort, the model demonstrated comparable discrimination (AUC 72%, 95% CI 0.66–0.78) and good calibration.

Conclusions

Application of the model prior to discharge from an ICU hospitalization may identify older adults at the highest risk of persistent functional impairment in the subsequent year, thereby facilitating targeted interventions and follow‐up.
The modified inframammary fold suture method and its clinical significance in primary augmentation mammoplasty
Authors: Qin Feng , Zeng Ang , Yu Nanze , Dong Ruijia , Long Fei , Xia Zenan , Zhang Wenchao , Long Xiao , Wang Xiaojun
Published: October 2022

Background

The inframammary approach is one of the most commonly used incisions in breast augmentation. There are many suture methods for inframammary incisions; however, no one method has proven optimal. We modified the traditional three‐layer suture method according to the inframammary fold (IMF) cadaver dissection results. This study aims to investigate whether using a modified suture method can improve postoperative outcomes.

Methods

Cadaver dissections were performed in order to clarify the anatomy of the IMF. From June 2013 to December 2017, a retrospective study of primary breast augmentation patients subjected to the inframammary approach was conducted. Patients were divided into two cohorts: the traditional suture method and the modified suture method. The patient's demographics, specifics of breast augmentation procedures, complications, and scar assessment were analyzed. Univariate and multivariable analyses were used to determine differences between the two cohorts.

Results

One hundred eighty‐four patients were included: 75 patients were subjected to the traditional suture method, and 109 patients were subjected to the modified suture method. Wound‐related adverse events (p = 0.026) and IMF‐indented scarring (p = 0.014) were significantly different between the two groups. Multivariable analysis showed that the suture method was the most influential factor related to IMF‐indented scarring (OR = 16.9), followed by BMI (OR = 2.9).

Conclusions

We defined a new suture method for the inframammary incision in primary breast augmentation. This modified suture method reduces the occurrence of wound‐related adverse events and IMF‐indented scarring.