bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Addressing global disparities in blood pressure control: perspectives of the International Society of Hypertension
Authors: Schutte Aletta E , Jafar Tazeen H , Poulter Neil R , Damasceno Albertino , Khan Nadia A , Nilsson Peter M , Alsaid Jafar , Neupane Dinesh , Kario Kazuomi , Beheiry Hind , Brouwers Sofie , Burger Dylan , Charchar Fadi J , Cho Myeong-Chan , Guzik Tomasz J , Haji Al-Saedi Ghazi F , Ishaq Muhammad , Itoh Hiroshi , Jones Erika S W , Khan Taskeen , Kokubo Yoshihiro , Kotruchin Praew , Muxfeldt Elizabeth , Odili Augustine , Patil Mansi , Ralapanawa Udaya , Romero Cesar A , Schlaich Markus P , Shehab Abdulla , Mooi Ching Siew , Steckelings U Muscha , Stergiou George , Touyz Rhian M , Unger Thomas , Wainford Richard D , Wang Ji-Guang , Williams Bryan , Wynne Brandi M , Tomaszewski Maciej
Published: October 2022

Raised blood pressure (BP) is the leading cause of preventable death in the world. Yet, its global prevalence is increasing, and it remains poorly detected, treated, and controlled in both high- and low-resource settings. From the perspective of members of the International Society of Hypertension based in all regions, we reflect on the past, present, and future of hypertension care, highlighting key challenges and opportunities, which are often region-specific. We report that most countries failed to show sufficient improvements in BP control rates over the past three decades, with greater improvements mainly seen in some high-income countries, also reflected in substantial reductions in the burden of cardiovascular disease and deaths. Globally, there are significant inequities and disparities based on resources, sociodemographic environment, and race with subsequent disproportionate hypertension-related outcomes. Additional unique challenges in specific regions include conflict, wars, migration, unemployment, rapid urbanization, extremely limited funding, pollution, COVID-19-related restrictions and inequalities, obesity, and excessive salt and alcohol intake. Immediate action is needed to address suboptimal hypertension care and related disparities on a global scale. We propose a Global Hypertension Care Taskforce including multiple stakeholders and societies to identify and implement actions in reducing inequities, addressing social, commercial, and environmental determinants, and strengthening health systems implement a well-designed customized quality-of-care improvement framework.
Risk factors for adverse outcomes following surgical repair of esophageal atresia. A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Zouari Mohamed , Ameur Hana Ben , Krichen Emna , Saad Nesrine Ben , Dhaou Mahdi Ben , Mhiri Riadh
Published: October 2022

Esophageal atresia (EA) is a life-threatening congenital malformation of the esophagus. Despite considerable recent advances in perinatal resuscitation and neonatal care, EA remains an important cause of mortality and morbidity, especially in low-income countries. The aim of this study was to assess risk factors for adverse outcomes following surgical repair of EA at a single center in Tunisia. We performed a retrospective analysis using medical records of neonates with surgical management of EA at our institution from 1 January 2007 to 31 December 2021. In total, 88 neonates were included with a mortality rate of 25%. There were 29 girls and 59 boys. The diagnosis of EA was suspected prenatally in 19 patients. The most common associated anomalies were congenital heart diseases. Prematurity, low birth weight, outborn birth, age at admission >12 hours, congenital heart disease, postoperative sepsis, and anastomotic leak were risk factors for mortality following surgical repair of EA. Anastomotic tension was the only factor associated with short-term complications and the occurrence of short-term complications was predictive of mid-term complications. This study provides physicians and families with contemporary information regarding risk factors for adverse outcomes following surgical repair of EA. Thus, any effort to reduce these risk factors would be critical to improving patient outcomes and reducing cost. Future multi-institutional studies are needed to identify, investigate, and establish best practices and clinical care guidelines for neonates with EA.
Simulation of Forest Distribution in the Qilian Mountains of China with a Terrain-based Logistic Regression Model
Authors: Fang Shu , He Zhibin , Zhao Minmin
Published: October 2022

Predicting vegetation distribution strengthens ecosystem management, protection, and restoration in arid and degraded areas. However, data quality and incomplete data coverage limit prediction accuracy for Picea crassifolia Kom. (Qinghai spruce) forest in the Qilian Mountains of China. Here, we used a logistic regression model combined with high-resolution vegetation distribution data for different sampling scales and digital elevation models (DEMs) to determine the potential distribution of P. crassifolia forest in the Dayekou catchment in the Qilian Mountains. We found that the model with the best simulation accuracy was based on data with a DEM scale of 30 m and a sampling accuracy of 90 m (Nagelkerke’s R2 = 0.48 and total prediction accuracy = 83.89%). The main factors affecting the distribution of P. crassifolia forest were elevation and potential solar radiation. We conclude that it is feasible to calculate the distribution of arid mountain forests based on terrain and that terrain data at 30 m spatial resolution can fully support the simulation of P. crassifolia forest distribution.
Generation and characterization of conditional yeast mutants affecting each of the 2 essential functions of the scaffolding proteins Boi1/2 and Bem1
Authors: Sulpizio Abigail , Herpin Lancelot , Gingras Robert , Liu Wenyu , Bretscher Anthony
Published: October 2022

Boi1 and Boi2 are closely related yeast scaffolding proteins, either of which can perform an essential function. Previous studies have suggested a role in cell polarity, interacting with lipids, components of the late secretory pathway, and actin nucleators. We report detailed studies of their localization, dynamics, and the generation and characterization of conditional mutants. Boi1/2 are present on the plasma membrane in dynamic patches, then at the bud neck during cytokinesis. These distributions are unaffected by perturbation of the actin cytoskeleton or the secretory pathway. We identify 2 critical aromatic residues, present in both Boi1 and Boi2, in the essential C-terminal Pleckstrin-Homology domain, that cause temperature-sensitive growth resulting in defects in polarized growth leading to cell lysis. The scaffolding protein, Bem1, colocalizes with Boi1 in patches at the growing bud, and at the bud neck, the latter requiring the N-terminal SH3 domain of Boi1p. Loss of function of Boi1-SH3 domain renders Bem1 essential, which can be fully replaced by a fusion of the SH3b and PB1 domains of Bem1. Thus, the 2 essential functions of the Boi1/2/Bem1 proteins can be satisfied by Bem1-SH3b-PB1 and Boi1-Pleckstrin-Homology. Generation and characterization of conditional mutations in the essential function of Bem1 reveal a slow onset of defects in polarized growth, which is difficult to define a specific initial defect. This study provides more details into the functions of Boi1/2 and their relationship with Bem1 and presents the generation of conditional mutants that will be useful for future genetic analysis.
Anomalies and transient variations of b-value in Italy during the major earthquake sequences: what truth is there to this?
Authors: Lombardi A M
Published: October 2022

The Gutenberg–Richter b-value is thought to be a proxy of stress conditions in the crust and therefore able to locate asperities as zones of stress concentration responsible for the nucleation of strong events. The scientific literature contains a broad range of case studies showing precursory drops of b, just before the occurrence of strong events, and subsequent rises, during the early part of aftershocks sequences. Translating these results into hazard assessment, the b-value has assumed the status of a candidate precursor to the occurrence of an imminent large event. This issue is analysed here for three major seismic sequences that occurred recently in Italy. In comparison to previous studies, this investigation indicates that the variability of b may not be a reliable indicator of stress or a significant precursor in these examples, and instead may be assigned to a combination of chance, inhomogeneities in the data and inefficiencies in estimation methodologies. Consequently, extreme caution is required when we interpret b-values both as a proxy of physical processes involved in a seismic sequence and as a precursor to the occurrence of imminent strong events.
Incorporating non-stationary spatial variability into dynamic species distribution models
Authors: Ward Eric J , Barnett Lewis A K , Anderson Sean C , Commander Christian J C , Essington Timothy E
Published: October 2022

Ecologists and fisheries scientists are faced with forecasting the ecological responses of non-stationary processes resulting from climate change and other drivers. While much is known about temporal change, and resulting responses vis-à-vis species distributional shifts, less is known about how spatial variability in population structure changes through time in response to temporal trends in drivers. A population experiencing decreasing spatial variability would be expected to be more evenly spatially distributed over time, and an increasing trend would correspond to greater extremes or patchiness. We implement a new approach for modelling this spatiotemporal variability in the R package sdmTMB. As a real-world application, we focus on a long-term groundfish monitoring dataset, from the west coast of the USA. Focusing on the 36 species with the highest population densities, we compare our model with dynamic spatiotemporal variance to a model with constant spatiotemporal variance. Of the 36 species examined, 13 had evidence to support increasing patchiness, including darkblotched rockfish, lingcod, and petrale sole. Species appearing to be more uniformly spatially distributed over time included: Dover sole, Pacific ocean perch, and Dungeness crab. Letting spatiotemporal variation change through time generally results in small differences in population trend estimates, but larger estimated differences in precision.
Lung transplantation in patients with a history of anatomical native lung resection
Authors: Iskender Ilker , Pecoraro Ylenia , Moreno Casado Paula , Kubisa Bartosz , Schiavon Marco , Faccioli Eleonora , Ehrsam Jonas , Damarco Francesco , Nosotti Mario , Inci Ilhan , Venuta Federico , Van Raemdonck Dirk , Ceulemans Laurens J
Published: October 2022

OBJECTIVES

History of anatomical lung resection complicates lung transplantation (LTx). Our aim was to identify indications, intraoperative approach and outcome in these challenging cases in a retrospective multicentre cohort analysis.

METHODS

Members of the ESTS Lung Transplantation Working Group were invited to submit data on patients undergoing LTx after a previous anatomical native lung resection between January 2005 and July 2020. The primary end point was overall survival (Kaplan–Meier estimation).

RESULTS

Out of 2690 patients at 7 European centres, 26 (1%) patients (14 males; median age 33 years) underwent LTx after a previous anatomical lung resection. The median time from previous lung resection to LTx was 12 years. The most common indications for lung resection were infections (n = 17), emphysema (n = 5), lung tumour (n = 2) and others (n = 2). Bronchiectasis (cystic fibrosis or non-cystic fibrosis related) was the main indication for LTx (n = 21), followed by COPD (n = 5). Two patients with a previous pneumonectomy underwent contralateral single LTx and 1 patient with a previous lobectomy had ipsilateral single LTx. The remaining 23 patients underwent bilateral LTx. Clamshell incision was performed in 12 (46%) patients. Moreover, LTx was possible without extracorporeal life support in 13 (50%) patients. 90-Day mortality was 8% (n = 2) and the median survival was 8.7 years.

CONCLUSIONS

The history of anatomical lung resection is rare in LTx candidates. The majority of patients are young and diagnosed with bronchiectasis. Although the numbers were limited, survival after LTx in patients with previous anatomical lung resection, including pneumonectomy, is comparable to reported conventional LTx for bronchiectasis.
Endoscopic mitral valve repair utilizing cavitron ultrasonic surgical aspirator for active endocarditis
Authors: Hosoba Soh , Ito Toshiaki , Kato Riku
Published: October 2022

Mitral valve repair for endocarditis in an acute setting is still challenging due to difficulties in debriding friable tissue and in leaving enough non-infected tissue for reconstruction. Endoscopic approaches for complex mitral valve procedures via a minimally invasive approach have been reported from high-volume programs. However, the role of endoscopic mitral valve surgery for acute infective endocarditis has not been clearly defined. We report our technique of endoscopic mitral valve repair using the cavitron ultrasonic surgical aspirator system for active endocarditis. The cavitron ultrasonic surgical aspirator with a low power setting provides enough debridement of the infective tissue and leaves healthy tissue adequate for repair under a totally endoscopic vision.
Why uterine transplantation requires us to rethink the role of the pre-conception welfare principle
Authors: O’Donovan Laura
Published: October 2022

Uterine transplantation (UTx) is a programme of treatment aimed at providing a unique solution to absolute uterine factor infertility, enabling patients to have children as a result of their own pregnancies. As a transplant procedure performed for fertility purposes it may be thought obvious that the welfare of any children created should be assessed prior to treatment provision. However, major concerns about the breadth and scope of such requirements, and the potential threat they pose to patients' reproductive autonomy, have been raised. In this paper, I analyse novel questions regarding the role of the pre-conception welfare principle in UTx. After outlining traditional critiques of the principle, I focus on the unique issues raised by its application in the two areas of medicine occupied by UTx. As a treatment for a particular form of infertility, I explore whether law and policy regulating traditional assisted reproductive technologies applies equally to the case of UTx, and whether a distinction (in welfare terms) does and should exist between fertility treatment involving gametes and embryos and gynaecological surgery for fertility purposes. As a quality-of-life-enhancing transplant, I consider and reject proposals in favour of using pre-conception welfare considerations to inform patient listing and the allocation of deceased donor uteri on the grounds that such assessments may both compromise patient autonomy and lead to unjust discrimination against particular patients or groups of patients.
Diagnosis and management of breast implant capsule recurrence following mastectomy and subpectoral implant – innovative use of ADM for reconstruction
Authors: Soh Chien Lin , Asher Christian M , Forouhi Parto , Moyle Penelope , Healy Nuala Ann , Malata Charles M
Published: October 2022

It is well reported that patients who have undergone breast augmentation and subsequently develop breast cancer can successfully undergo breast-conserving therapy with preservation of their implants. However, there is a paucity of literature on the radiological investigations and surgical techniques in postmastectomy implant-reconstructed patients who develop recurrences to enable preservation of their implant-based reconstruction whilst effectively treating the local recurrence. The wide adoption of acellular dermal matrix use in prosthetic breast reconstruction in recent years has made radiological evaluation of such patients challenging. Herein presented is a case of a 37-year-old woman where wide local excision of a local recurrence abutting a peri-implant capsule following previous mastectomy and implant-acellular dermal matrix (ADM) reconstruction was performed with successful preservation of reconstruction volume (and shape) using an ADM patch to repair the capsular defect whilst retaining the implant in situ. Radiological investigation facilitated and guided the surgical planning and oncological clearance.
Galaxy Zoo: Clump Scout – Design and first application of a two-dimensional aggregation tool for citizen science
Authors: Dickinson Hugh , Adams Dominic , Mehta Vihang , Scarlata Claudia , Fortson Lucy , Serjeant Stephen , Krawczyk Coleman , Kruk Sandor , Lintott Chris , Mantha Kameswara Bharadwaj , Simmons Brooke D , Walmsley Mike
Published: October 2022

Galaxy Zoo: Clump Scout  is a web-based citizen science project designed to identify and spatially locate giant star forming clumps in galaxies that were imaged by the Sloan Digital Sky Survey Legacy Survey. We present a statistically driven software framework that is designed to aggregate two-dimensional annotations of clump locations provided by multiple independent Galaxy Zoo: Clump Scout volunteers and generate a consensus label that identifies the locations of probable clumps within each galaxy. The statistical model our framework is based on allows us to assign false-positive probabilities to each of the clumps we identify, to estimate the skill levels of each of the volunteers who contribute to Galaxy Zoo: Clump Scout and also to quantitatively assess the reliability of the consensus labels that are derived for each subject. We apply our framework to a data set containing 3561 454 two-dimensional points, which constitute 1739 259 annotations of 85 286 distinct subjects provided by 20 999 volunteers. Using this data set, we identify 128 100 potential clumps distributed among 44 126 galaxies. This data set can be used to study the prevalence and demographics of giant star forming clumps in low-redshift galaxies. The code for our aggregation software framework is publicly available at: https://github.com/ou-astrophysics/BoxAggregator
Homeobox A3 and KDM6A cooperate in transcriptional control of aerobic glycolysis and glioblastoma progression
Authors: Yang Rui , Zhang Guanghui , Dong Zhen , Wang Shanshan , Li Yanping , Lian Fuming , Liu Xiaoran , Li Haibin , Wei Xiaonan , Cui Hongjuan
Published: October 2022

Background

Alterations in transcriptional regulators of glycolytic metabolism have been implicated in brain tumor growth, but the underlying molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood.

Methods

Knockdown and overexpression cells were used to explore the functional roles of HOXA3 in cell proliferation, tumor formation, and aerobic glycolysis. Chromatin immunoprecipitation, luciferase assays, and western blotting were performed to verify the regulation of HK2 and PKM2 by HOXA3. PLA, Immunoprecipitation, and GST-pull-down assays were used to examine the interaction of HOXA3 and KDM6A.

Results

We report that transcription factor homeobox A3 (HOXA3), which is aberrantly highly expressed in glioblastoma (GBM) patients and predicts poor prognosis, transcriptionally activates aerobic glycolysis, leading to a significant acceleration in cell proliferation and tumor growth. Mechanically, we identified KDM6A, a lysine-specific demethylase, as an important cooperator of HOXA3 in regulating aerobic glycolysis. HOXA3 activates KDM6A transcription and recruits KDM6A to genomic binding sites of glycolytic genes, targeting glycolytic genes for transcriptional activation by removing the suppressive histone modification H3K27 trimethylation. Further evidence demonstrates that HOXA3 requires KDM6A for transcriptional activation of aerobic glycolysis and brain tumor growth.

Conclusions

Our findings provide a novel molecular mechanism linking HOXA3-mediated transactivation and KDM6A-coupled H3K27 demethylation in regulating glucose metabolism and GBM progression.
Neurological applications of belzutifan in von Hippel-Lindau disease
Authors: Zhang Yue , Nguyen Catherine C , Zhang Nigel T , Fink Nicolas S , John Jordan D , Venkatesh Omkar G , Roe Jonathan D , Hoffman Steven C , Lesniak Maciej S , Wolinsky Jean-Paul , Horbinski Craig , Szymaniak Brittany M , Buerki Robin A , Sosman Jeffrey A , Shenoy Niraj K , Lukas Rimas V
Published: October 2022

Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease is a tumor predisposition syndrome caused by mutations in the VHL gene that presents with visceral neoplasms and growths, including clear cell renal cell carcinoma, and central nervous system manifestations, such as hemangioblastomas of the brain and spine. The pathophysiology involves dysregulation of oxygen sensing caused by the inability to degrade HIFα, leading to the overactivation of hypoxic pathways. Hemangioblastomas are the most common tumors in patients with VHL and cause significant morbidity. Until recently, there were no systemic therapies available for patients that could effectively reduce the size of these lesions. Belzutifan, the first approved HIF-2α inhibitor, has demonstrated benefit in VHL-associated tumors, with a 30% response rate in hemangioblastomas and ~30%–50% reduction in their sizes over the course of treatment. Anemia is the most prominent adverse effect, affecting 76%–90% of participants and sometimes requiring dose reduction or transfusion. Other significant adverse events include hypoxia and fatigue. Overall, belzutifan is well tolerated; however, long-term data on dosing regimens, safety, and fertility are not yet available. Belzutifan holds promise for the treatment of neurological manifestations of VHL and its utility may influence the clinical management paradigms for this patient population.
Association of hyperglycemia and molecular subclass on survival in IDH-wildtype glioblastoma
Authors: Liu Elisa K , Vasudevaraja Varshini , Sviderskiy Vladislav O , Feng Yang , Tran Ivy , Serrano Jonathan , Cordova Christine , Kurz Sylvia C , Golfinos John G , Sulman Erik P , Orringer Daniel A , Placantonakis Dimitris , Possemato Richard , Snuderl Matija
Published: October 2022

Background

Hyperglycemia has been associated with worse survival in glioblastoma. Attempts to lower glucose yielded mixed responses which could be due to molecularly distinct GBM subclasses.

Methods

Clinical, laboratory, and molecular data on 89 IDH-wt GBMs profiled by clinical next-generation sequencing and treated with Stupp protocol were reviewed. IDH-wt GBMs were sub-classified into RTK I (Proneural), RTK II (Classical) and Mesenchymal subtypes using whole-genome DNA methylation. Average glucose was calculated by time-weighting glucose measurements between diagnosis and last follow-up.

Results

Patients were stratified into three groups using average glucose: tertile one (<100 mg/dL), tertile two (100–115 mg/dL), and tertile three (>115 mg/dL). Comparison across glucose tertiles revealed no differences in performance status (KPS), dexamethasone dose, MGMT methylation, or methylation subclass. Overall survival (OS) was not affected by methylation subclass (P = .9) but decreased with higher glucose (P = .015). Higher glucose tertiles were associated with poorer OS among RTK I (P = .08) and mesenchymal tumors (P = .05), but not RTK II (P = .99). After controlling for age, KPS, dexamethasone, and MGMT status, glucose remained significantly associated with OS (aHR = 5.2, P = .02). Methylation clustering did not identify unique signatures associated with high or low glucose levels. Metabolomic analysis of 23 tumors showed minimal variation across metabolites without differences between molecular subclasses.

Conclusion

Higher average glucose values were associated with poorer OS in RTKI and Mesenchymal IDH-wt GBM, but not RTKII. There were no discernible epigenetic or metabolomic differences between tumors in different glucose environments, suggesting a potential survival benefit to lowering systemic glucose in selected molecular subtypes.
Nutritional and health-promoting attributes of millet: current and future perspectives
Authors: Samtiya Mrinal , Aluko Rotimi E , Dhaka Namrata , Dhewa Tejpal , Puniya Anil Kumar
Published: October 2022

Millet is consumed as a staple food, particularly in developing countries, is part of the traditional diet in a number of relatively affluent countries, and is gaining popularity throughout the world. It is a valuable dietary energy source. In addition to high caloric value, several health-promoting attributes have been reported for millet seeds. This review describes many nutritional characteristics of millet seeds and their derivatives that are important to human health: antioxidant, antihypertensive, immunomodulatory or anti-inflammatory, antibacterial or antimicrobial, hypocholesterolemic, hypoglycemic, and anti-carcinogenic potential, and their role as modulators of gut health. There are several varieties, but the main focus of this review is on pearl millet (Cenchrus americanus [synonym Pennisetum glaucum]), one of the most widely eaten millet crops grown in India, though other millet types are also covered. In this article, the health-promoting properties of the natural components (ie, proteins, peptides, polyphenols, polysaccharides, oil, isoflavones, etc.) present in millet seeds are discussed. Although many of these health benefits have been demonstrated using animal models in vitro studies, human intervention-feeding trials are required to confirm several of the potential health benefits of millet seeds. Based on the nutritional and health-promoting attributes known for pearl millet (discussed in this review), finger millet and foxtail millet are suggested as good candidates for use in future nutritional interventions for improved human health.
Multiple Lytic Bone Lesions Mimicking Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis: A Case of Infantile Mendelian Susceptibility to Mycobacterial Disease due to STAT1 Deficiency
Authors: He Yingyi , Zhang Hui , Li Chunjie , Su Xiaoling , Gan Wenting , Wang Pengfei , Xiao Weiqiang
Published: October 2022

We present the first infantile disseminated Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) disease case with STAT1 deficiency, which is manifested by multiple Langerhans cell histiocytosis–like osteolytic lesions. The diagnosis of BCG-induced osteomyelitis was not initially considered until the additional biopsy revealing granulomatous inflammation, a key pathological diagnostic component for mycobacterial infection.
Nationwide racial/ethnic disparities in US emergency department visits and hospitalizations for gout
Authors: Yokose Chio , McCormick Natalie , Lu Na , Joshi Amit D , Jackson Lesley , Kohler Minna J , Yinh Janeth , Zhang Yuqing , Hsu John , Dalbeth Nicola , Saag Kenneth G , Choi Hyon K
Published: October 2022

Objectives

Gout prevalence is reportedly ∼20% higher in US Black adults than Whites, but racial differences in emergency department (ED) visits and hospitalizations for gout are unknown. We evaluated the latest US national utilization datasets according to racial/ethnic groups.

Methods

Using 2019 US National Emergency Department Sample and National Inpatient Sample databases, we compared racial/ethnic differences in annual population rates of ED visits and hospitalizations for gout (primary discharge diagnosis) per 100 000 US adults (using 2019 age- and sex-specific US census data). We also examined rates of ED visits and hospitalizations for gout among all US ED visits/hospitalizations and mean costs for each gout encounter.

Results

Compared with White patients, the per capita age- and sex-adjusted rate ratio (RR) of gout primary ED visits for Black patients was 5.01 (95% CI 4.96, 5.06), for Asian patients 1.29 (1.26, 1.31) and for Hispanic patients 1.12 (1.10, 1.13). RRs for gout primary hospitalizations were 4.07 (95% CI 3.90, 4.24), 1.46 (1.34, 1.58) and 1.06 (0.99, 1.13), respectively. Corresponding RRs among total US hospitalizations were 3.17 (95% CI 2.86, 3.50), 3.23 (2.71, 3.85) and 1.43 (1.21, 1.68) and among total ED visits were 2.66 (95% CI, 2.50, 2.82), 3.28 (2.64, 4.08), and 1.14 (1.05, 1.24), respectively. RRs were largest among Black women. Costs for ED visits and hospitalizations experienced by race/ethnicity showed similar disparities.

Conclusions

These first nationwide data found a substantial excess in both gout primary ED visits and hospitalizations experienced by all underserved racial/ethnic groups, particularly by Black women, revealing an urgent need for improved care to eliminate inequities in gout outcomes.
Sleep slow waves’ negative-to-positive-phase transition: a marker of cognitive and apneic status in aging
Authors: Lafrenière Alexandre , Lina Jean-Marc , Hernandez Jimmy , Bouchard Maude , Gosselin Nadia , Carrier Julie
Published: October 2022

The sleep slow-wave (SW) transition between negative and positive phases is thought to mirror synaptic strength and likely depends on brain health. This transition shows significant age-related changes but has not been investigated in pathological aging. The present study aimed at comparing the transition speed and other characteristics of SW between older adults with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) and cognitively normal (CN) controls with and without obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). We also examined the association of SW characteristics with the longitudinal changes of episodic memory and executive functions and the degree of subjective cognitive complaints. aMCI (no/mild OSA = 17; OSA = 15) and CN (no/mild OSA = 20; OSA = 17) participants underwent a night of polysomnography and a neuropsychological evaluation at baseline and 18 months later. Participants with aMCI had a significantly slower SW negative-to-positive-phase transition speed and a higher proportion of SW that are “slow-switchers” than CN participants. These SW measures in the frontal region were significantly correlated with memory decline and cognitive complaints in aMCI and cognitive improvements in CN participants. The transition speed of the SW that are “fast-switchers” was significantly slower in OSA compared to no or mild obstructive sleep apnea participants. The SW transition-related metrics showed opposite correlations with the longitudinal episodic memory changes depending on the participants’ cognitive status. These relationships were particularly strong in participants with aMCI. As the changes of the SW transition-related metrics in pathological aging might reflect synaptic alterations, future studies should investigate whether these new metrics covary with biomarker levels of synaptic integrity in this population.
A Survey of Plant Parasitic Nematodes of Soybeans in Delaware and Maryland 2019 to 2021
Authors: Kessler Alexandra C. , Koehler Alyssa M.
Published: October 2022

Soybean cyst nematode (SCN; Heterodera glycines) is the most yield-limiting pathogen of soybean across Delaware and eastern shore Maryland. To update nematode distribution and population data, a 3-year survey of nematode soil samples was conducted from 2019 to 2021. Soybean fields across Delaware and nine Maryland counties were sampled from August through October in each year. In total, 311 soil samples were collected, including 222 predictive samples and 89 diagnostic samples. Across all samples, nine nematode taxa were identified. SCN (53%), root-knot nematode (RKN; Meloidogyne incognita, 18%), and lesion nematode ( Pratylenchus spp., 57%) were the most notable populations of economic concern. Among positive samples, populations were above the economic threshold for 66% of samples with SCN; 39% of samples with RKN; and 14% of samples with lesion nematode. Results from this survey highlight the continued challenge of SCN in the region and that other nematode taxa like RKN and lesion should be monitored. Many fields have multiple nematode genera present, and interactions are poorly understood.
Communications Ecosystem to Support the Assay Validation Community: A Concept
Authors: Stack James P. , Cardwell Kitty F.
Published: October 2022

The ability to minimize negative economic, environmental, or productivity impacts to plant systems caused by recurrent and emerging pathogens and pests depends on the early detection and accurate identification of those pests and pathogens. New pest and pathogen populations and genotypes are being detected and reported monthly in peer-reviewed journals across the globe. Accurate and timely identification of pests and pathogens is dependent on the capability and capacity of the diagnostic laboratory. Among the important attributes for a diagnostic laboratory are the technologies and methods used and the number and types of samples that the laboratory can process. Because pathogen or pest identification informs response, accurate identification is also dependent on the reliability of the assay employed and the correct interpretation of assay results. Confidence in the test results generated, and ultimately in the identification rendered, is dependent on the design and rigor of the validation process for the assay(s) used. Well-designed and -executed validation requires access to an array of resources including positive controls, reference strains to build inclusivity and exclusivity panels, reference nucleic acid sequence databases, and fully vetted standard operating procedures. A communications ecosystem to facilitate the sharing of such resources, as well as to provide access to taxon and technology expertise, will greatly accelerate the development, validation, and reliability of trusted diagnostic tests to support plant biosecurity specifically and plant health in general.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2023 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
Avdoralimab (Anti-C5aR1 mAb) Versus Placebo in Patients With Severe COVID-19: Results From a Randomized Controlled Trial (FOR COVID Elimination [FORCE])*
Authors: Carvelli Julien , Meziani Ferhat , Dellamonica Jean , Cordier Pierre-Yves , Allardet-Servent Jerome , Fraisse Megan , Velly Lionel , Barbar Saber Davide , Lehingue Samuel , Guervilly Christophe , Desgrouas Maxime , Camou Fabrice , Piperoglou Christelle , Vely Frederic , Demaria Olivier , Karakunnel Joyson , Fares Joanna , Batista Luciana , Rotolo Federico , Viotti Julien , Boyer-Chammard Agnes , Lacombe Karine , Le Dault Erwan , Carles Michel , Schleinitz Nicolas , Vivier Eric ,   for the FOR COVID Elimination (FORCE) Study Group
Published: October 2022

OBJECTIVES:

Severe COVID-19 is associated with exaggerated complement activation. We assessed the efficacy and safety of avdoralimab (an anti-C5aR1 mAb) in severe COVID-19.

DESIGN:

FOR COVID Elimination (FORCE) was a double-blind, placebo-controlled study.

SETTING:

Twelve clinical sites in France (ICU and general hospitals).

PATIENTS:

Patients receiving greater than or equal to 5 L oxygen/min to maintain Spo
2 greater than 93% (World Health Organization scale ≥ 5). Patients received conventional oxygen therapy or high-flow oxygen (HFO)/noninvasive ventilation (NIV) in cohort 1; HFO, NIV, or invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) in cohort 2; and IMV in cohort 3.

INTERVENTIONS:

Patients were randomly assigned, in a 1:1 ratio, to receive avdoralimab or placebo. The primary outcome was clinical status on the World Health Organization ordinal scale at days 14 and 28 for cohorts 1 and 3, and the number of ventilator-free days at day 28 (VFD28) for cohort 2.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

We randomized 207 patients: 99 in cohort 1, 49 in cohort 2, and 59 in cohort 3. During hospitalization, 95% of patients received glucocorticoids. Avdoralimab did not improve World Health Organization clinical scale score on days 14 and 28 (between-group difference on day 28 of –0.26 (95% CI, –1.2 to 0.7; p = 0.7) in cohort 1 and –0.28 (95% CI, –1.8 to 1.2; p = 0.6) in cohort 3). Avdoralimab did not improve VFD28 in cohort 2 (between-group difference of –6.3 (95% CI, –13.2 to 0.7; p = 0.96) or secondary outcomes in any cohort. No subgroup of interest was identified.

CONCLUSIONS:

In this randomized trial in hospitalized patients with severe COVID-19 pneumonia, avdoralimab did not significantly improve clinical status at days 14 and 28 (funded by Innate Pharma, ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT04371367).
Protecting health facilities: design options for armed conflict and climate change disasters
Authors: Groves Heather , Kushner Adam L. , Gupta Shailvi
Published: October 2022

Hospital facility designs are essential to maintaining function during times of disaster. For hospitals to remain open during emergencies, their structures must resist forces from many types of hazards such as earthquakes, hurricanes, flooding, and even societal hazards, such as war. Natural disasters are becoming more dangerous with the advent of global climate change. In this article, we investigate health care building design interventions to protect facilities. Ultimately, a multi-hazard approach is the best way to prepare hospitals for resiliency in the face of disaster.
Dexmedetomidine-induced polyuria in the intensive care unit: a case report
Authors: Kutluer Karaca Nurcan
Published: October 2022

Dexmedetomidine is an α2 agonist that is frequently used for sedation in intensive care units (ICUs). Hypotension and bradycardia are common adverse effects observed in clinical practice. In perioperative conditions, polyuria is a rare adverse effect with limited case reports after dexmedetomidine infusion. Similar to this situation, in ICU, there are rare cases. We present the case of a 59-year-old man who developed polyuria secondary to high-dose intravenous dexmedetomidine infusion in the medical ICU.
Nonsurgical Correction of Stahl’s Ear in Neonates: A Case Study
Authors: Panopoulou Georgina , Petrou Ilias , Vassiliou Andreas
Published: October 2022

Stahl’s ear deformity is a congenital auricular anomaly characterized by a third crus in the auricular cartilage, giving rise to an irregular helical rim and a bent scaphoid fossa. This deformity is mainly treated surgically during childhood. However, studies regarding ear-molding techniques show that postpartum splinting offers a safer and more effective permanent correction, and that happens because of the high circulating levels of estrogen that neonates receive from their mothers right after birth, making the cartilage more malleable. We present a case that shows a newborn with unilateral Stahl’s ear deformity, in which we used a molding device (EarBuddies) to permanently correct the ear’s shape. After 3 weeks of treatment, the affected auricle regained its normal appearance. There were no complications. Long-term follow-up showed no recurrence. Splinting of this ear deformity seems to be a nonpainful, stress-free and, most importantly, effective nonoperative treatment. Postpartum clinical examination of the ears is crucial, as the sooner the nonsurgical correction of the deformity begins, the better the results are. A clinical screening for ear deformities should be established immediately after every child’s birth to eliminate the risk for surgical intervention later in childhood.
Visceral debranching followed by chemotherapy and resection for locally advanced pancreatic cancer with arterial invasion: case report
Authors: Ronellenfitsch Ulrich , Rebelo Artur , Kleeff Jorg
Published: October 2022

The oncological outcome of patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer continues to be dismal. Abutment or invasion of visceral arteries, which constitutes irresectability according to the consensus of the International Association of Pancreatology and can be found in a considerable proportion of patients upon initial diagnosis, usually precludes complete resection in curative intent. Simultaneous tumor resection and arterial reconstruction are associated with relevant morbidity and mortality. Here, we present a case in which a therapeutic split was done so that isolated arterial reconstruction (visceral debranching with an iliacohepatic bypass graft) preceded neoadjuvant FOLFIRINOX chemotherapy and subsequent multivisceral tumor resection. Despite several perioperative vascular complications, which were addressed by surgical and endovascular techniques, the patient had a favorable outcome of the operations and is tumor-free after 8 months of follow-up. The feasibility and safety of this novel therapeutic strategy of a therapeutic split with isolated visceral debranching as the first treatment step is currently evaluated in a clinical trial (PREVADER, NCT04136769).
Advantage of oncological outcome of robotic-assisted pancreatoduodenectomy (RPD) in stage I pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDAC)
Authors: Li Jingfeng , Zhao Shulin , Jin Jiabin , Shi Yusheng , Weng Yuanchi , Chen Mengmin , Chen Hao , Xu Zhiwei , Deng Xiaxing , Shen Baiyong , Peng Chenghong
Published: October 2022

Background:

Robotic-assisted pancreatoduodenectomy (RPD) has been widely performed in the treatment of pancreatic tumors. The oncologic outcome in the early stage of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDAC) operated by RPD has not been evaluated.

Methods:

Clinical data of pathology confirmed stage I PDAC from January 2015 to December 2020 in Ruijin hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine was collected and retrospectively analyzed. Patients were divided into the open pancreaticoduodenectomy (OPD) group and the RPD group. Clinicopathological data and prognosis data were compared and analyzed.

Results:

A total of 426 patients were enrolled in this study, including 342 patients in the OPD group and 84 patients in the RPD group. The baseline characteristics of both groups were equivalent. Incidence of R1 resection was significantly lower in RPD group (3 [3.6%] vs 40 [11.7%], P = .044). RPD group was associated with better disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) (DFS: Haszard Ratio [HR]: 0.681, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.491–0.945, P = .022; OS: HR: 0.667, 95% CI: 0.478–0.932, P = .017). T2 stage was associated with poor DFS and OS (DFS: HR: 1.471, 95% CI: 1.092–1.981, P = .011; OS: HR: 1.616, 95% CI: 1.209–2.160, P = .035). R1 resection was associated with poor OS (HR: 1.483, 95% CI: 1.028–2.140, P = .035) while adjuvant therapy was associated with better OS (HR: 0.589, 95% CI: 0.452–0.766, P < .001). Kaplan–Meier estimate showed significantly longer DFS and OS in RPD group (DFS: P = .004; OS: P = .009).

Conclusion:

For stage I PDAC patients, RPD surgery achieved higher R0 resection rates and better DFS and OS. T1 stage was associated with better DFS. R0 resection and adjuvant therapy were the accesses to better OS.
Central hemodynamics and the discrepancy between central blood pressure and brachial blood pressure
Authors: Park Jin-Sun , Shin Joon-Han , Park Jeong-Bae , Choi Dong-Ju , Youn Ho-Joong , Park Chang-Gyu , Kwan Jun , Ahn Youngkeun , Kim Dong-Woon , Rim Se-Joong , Park Seung-Woo , Sung Jidong , Bae Jang-Ho ,   on behalf of the Korean Hypertension Research Network
Published: October 2022

Despite similar brachial blood pressure, central hemodynamics could be different. The objective of the present study was to investigate the factors, which could influence the discrepancy between central BP (cBP) and brachial blood pressure. Six hundred forty-seven patients (364 males, 48 ± 12 years old) were enrolled. Using applanation tonometry, cBP was noninvasively derived. The median difference between brachial systolic BP (bSBP) and central systolic BP (cSBP) was 8 mm Hg. We defined the discrepancy between bSBP and cSBP as differences >8 mm Hg. For adjustment of cBP, population was divided into 3 groups according to the cBP: group 1, <140 mm Hg of cSBP; group 2, 140 > cSBP < 160 mm Hg; group 3, =160 mm Hg of cSBP. All the central hemodynamic parameters of the patients, including augmentation pressure, augmentation index (AI), heart rate (75 bpm) adjusted augmentation index (AI@HR75), and subendocardial viability ratio, were measured. Using multivariate logistic regression analysis, we evaluated the factors which could influence the discrepancy between bSBP and cSBP. Age, gender, augmentation pressure, AI, and AI@HR75 were correlated with the discrepancy between bSBP and cSBP. AI@HR75 was significantly correlated with the discrepancy between bSBP and cSBP (β-coefficient = −0.376, P < .001 in group 1; β-coefficient = −0.297, P < .001 in group 2; and β-coefficient = −0.545, P < .001 in group 3). In groups 1 and 2, male gender was significantly correlated with the discrepancy between bSBP and cSBP (β-coefficient = −0.857, P = .035 in group 1; β-coefficient = −1.422, P = .039 in group 2). In present study, arterial stiffness might affect the discrepancy between bSBP and cSBP. Also, male gender was closely related to the discrepancy between bSBP and cSBP especially with cSBP <160 mm Hg. Not only cSBP, the discrepancy between cSBP and bSBP should be considered for understanding the central hemodynamics.
Study on blended teaching mode and its application based on the ARCS motivational model: Taking bioinformatics course as an example
Authors: Yang Yinfeng , Ouyang Ting , Zhang Lei , Wang Jinghui
Published: October 2022

With the advent of the “Internet +” era, technologies like big data and artificial intelligence are emerging, and teaching models are constantly being innovated. Blended teaching mode combines the advantages of online teaching and traditional classroom. However, during the process of specific teaching practice, there are many problems such as insufficient use of intelligent platform, insufficient dominant position of students, difficult to maintain a high learning motivation for a long time, and a mere formality of blended teaching. Therefore, this study first uses the Attention, Relevance, Confidence, and Satisfaction motivational model to explore its application in Bioinformatics course blended teaching. The classroom teaching mode was reconstructed from 3 aspects: pre-class guidance, in-class research, and after-class promotion. This model provides new ideas and directions for teaching innovation and curriculum reform in the colleges.
Vertebral arteriovenous fistulae (AVF) and vertebral artery aneurysms in neurofibromatosis type 1: A case report and a systematic review
Authors: Zhao Jiali , Zhao Guangyu , Lu Lin , Li Chunxia , Yang Ruirui
Published: October 2022

Background:

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is caused by mutations in the NF1 gene on the long arm of chromosome 17, which affects the skin, nervous system, eyes, and skeleton system. Vertebral arteriovenous fistula (AVF) associated with neurofibromatosis type I (NF-1) is rare.

Case presentation:

We report a 31-year-old postpartum woman with NF1 with vertebral arteriovenous fistulae (AVFs). She presented to our hospital because of neck pain, intracranial hypotension headache, and right upper limb weakness. She had a family history of NF1. After endovascular intervention, the AVF disappeared. However, a new aneurysm appeared on the right vertebral artery V5 dissection after 6 months of follow-up.

Conclusions:

The presence of NF1 in patients who present with neurologic signs should prompt further angiography. Awareness of the coexistence between NF1 and AVF or aneurysm is crucial to avoiding diagnostic delays. Endovascular occlusion of VV-AVF in NF-1 patients is effective and safe.