bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Quantifying the Interplay of Semantics and Phonology During Failures of Word Retrieval by People With Aphasia Using a Multiplex Lexical Network
Authors: Castro Nichol , Stella Massimo , Siew Cynthia S. Q. 
Published: September 2020

AbstractInvestigating instances where lexical selection fails can lead to deeper insights into the cognitive machinery and architecture supporting successful word retrieval and speech production. In this paper, we used a multiplex lexical network approach that combines semantic and phonological similarities among words to model the structure of the mental lexicon. Network measures at different levels of analysis (degree, network distance, and closeness centrality) were used to investigate the influence of network structure on picture naming accuracy and errors by people with Anomic, Broca's, Conduction, and Wernicke's aphasia. Our results reveal that word retrieval is influenced by the multiplex lexical network structure in at least two ways—(a) the accuracy of production and error type on incorrect productions were influenced by the degree and closeness centrality of the target word, and (b) error type also varied in terms of network distance between the target word and produced error word. Taken together, the analyses demonstrate that network science techniques, particularly the use of the multiplex lexical network to simultaneously represent semantic and phonological relationships among words, reveal how the structure of the mental lexicon influences language processes beyond traditionally examined psycholinguistic variables. We propose a framework for how the multiplex lexical network approach allows for understanding the influence of mental lexicon structure on word retrieval processes, with an eye toward a better understanding of the nature of clinical impairments, like aphasia.
Optical coherence tomography detects retinal changes in hereditary cerebral amyloid angiopathy
Authors: van Etten E. S. , de Boer I. , Steenmeijer S.R. , Al‐Nofal M. , Wermer M. J. H. , Notting I. C. , Terwindt G. M. 
Published: September 2020

Background and purposeInvestigating mutation carriers with Dutch‐type hereditary (D‐) cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA), offers the possibility to identify markers in pre‐ and symptomatic stages of CAA. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has shown potential to detect retinal changes in several neurodegenerative diseases. The aim of the present exploratory study was to investigate thinning of retinal layers as a possible (early) biomarker in D‐CAA mutation carriers.MethodsTwenty‐one D‐CAA mutation carriers (n = 8 presymptomatic, n = 13 symptomatic, median age 50 years) and nine controls (median age 53 years) were scanned using spectral‐domain OCT. Symptomatic mutation carriers were defined as having a history of ≥1 symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage. D‐CAA mutation carriers and controls were recruited from our D‐CAA cohort and a healthy control cohort. Total peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL) thickness, six regions of pRNFL, total macular volume (TMV), and individual macular region thickness were measured and analysed, adjusted for age.ResultsThe overall median (interquartile range) thickness of pRNFL was lower in symptomatic, but not presymptomatic D‐CAA mutation carriers compared with controls [91 (86–95) µm vs. 99 (87–108) µm; P = 0.006]. Both presymptomatic [111 (93–122) µm vs. 131 (123–143) µm; P < 0.001] and symptomatic carriers [119 (95–128) µm vs. 131 (123–143) µm; P = 0.034] had a thinner temporal‐superior quadrant of the pRNFL versus controls. TMV or individual macular layer thickness did not differ between carriers and controls.ConclusionsThinning of the retinal nerve fiber layer may be a candidate marker of disease in hereditary CAA. Further studies are needed to determine whether retinal thinning is present in sporadic CAA and estimate its value as a marker for disease progression.
Global root traits (GRooT) database
Authors: Guerrero‐Ramírez Nathaly R. , Mommer Liesje , Freschet Grégoire T. , Iversen Colleen M. , McCormack M. Luke , Kattge Jens , Poorter Hendrik , van der Plas Fons , Bergmann Joana , Kuyper Thom W. , York Larry M. , Bruelheide Helge , Laughlin Daniel C. , Meier Ina C. , Roumet Catherine , Semchenko Marina , Sweeney Christopher J. , van Ruijven Jasper , Valverde‐Barrantes Oscar J. , Aubin Isabelle , Catford Jane A. , Manning Peter , Martin Adam , Milla Rubén , Minden Vanessa , Pausas Juli G. , Smith Stuart W. , Soudzilovskaia Nadejda A. , Ammer Christian , Butterfield Bradley , Craine Joseph , Cornelissen Johannes H. C. , de Vries Franciska T. , Isaac Marney E. , Kramer Koen , König Christian , Lamb Eric G. , Onipchenko Vladimir G. , Peñuelas Josep , Reich Peter B. , Rillig Matthias C. , Sack Lawren , Shipley Bill , Tedersoo Leho , Valladares Fernando , van Bodegom Peter , Weigelt Patrick , Wright Justin P. , Weigelt Alexandra 
Published: September 2020

AbstractMotivationTrait data are fundamental to the quantitative description of plant form and function. Although root traits capture key dimensions related to plant responses to changing environmental conditions and effects on ecosystem processes, they have rarely been included in large‐scale comparative studies and global models. For instance, root traits remain absent from nearly all studies that define the global spectrum of plant form and function. Thus, to overcome conceptual and methodological roadblocks preventing a widespread integration of root trait data into large‐scale analyses we created the Global Root Trait (GRooT) Database. GRooT provides ready‐to‐use data by combining the expertise of root ecologists with data mobilization and curation. Specifically, we (a) determined a set of core root traits relevant to the description of plant form and function based on an assessment by experts, (b) maximized species coverage through data standardization within and among traits, and (c) implemented data quality checks.Main types of variables containedGRooT contains 114,222 trait records on 38 continuous root traits.Spatial location and grainGlobal coverage with data from arid, continental, polar, temperate and tropical biomes. Data on root traits were derived from experimental studies and field studies.Time period and grainData were recorded between 1911 and 2019.Major taxa and level of measurementGRooT includes root trait data for which taxonomic information is available. Trait records vary in their taxonomic resolution, with subspecies or varieties being the highest and genera the lowest taxonomic resolution available. It contains information for 184 subspecies or varieties, 6,214 species, 1,967 genera and 254 families. Owing to variation in data sources, trait records in the database include both individual observations and mean values.Software formatGRooT includes two csv files. A GitHub repository contains the csv files and a script in R to query the database.
Prognostic significance of present atrial fibrillation on a single office electrocardiogram in patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Krisai P. , Hämmerle P. , Blum S. , Meyre P. , Aeschbacher S. , Melchiorre‐Mayer P. , Baretella O. , Rodondi N. , Conen D. , Osswald S. , Kühne M. , Zuern C. S. ,   for the Swiss‐AF investigators
Published: September 2020

AbstractBackgroundEvidence for the association of atrial fibrillation (AF) present on the ECG and cardiovascular outcomes in AF patients is limited.ObjectiveTo investigate the prognostic significance of AF on a single surface ECG for cardiovascular outcomes in AF patients.MethodsA total of 3642 AF patients were prospectively enrolled. Main exclusion criteria were rhythms other than sinus rhythm (SR) or AF. The primary end‐point was a composite of all‐cause death and hospitalizations for congestive heart failure (CHF). Secondary end‐points were all‐cause death, CHF hospitalizations, cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, any stroke and stroke subtypes. Associations were assessed with multivariable Cox proportional hazards models.ResultsMean age was 71 years, 28% were female, and mean follow‐up was 3.4 years. Patients with SR on the ECG at study enrolment (56%) were younger (69 vs. 74 years, P < 0.0001), had more often paroxysmal AF (73 vs. 18%, P < 0.0001) and fewer comorbidities. The incidence of the primary end‐point was 1.8 and 3.1 per 100 person‐years in patients with SR and AF, respectively. The multivariable‐adjusted hazard ratio was 1.4 (95% confidence intervals 1.1; 1.7; P = 0.001) for patients with AF on the ECG compared to patients with SR. The hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) were 1.4 (1.1; 1.8; P = 0.006) for all‐cause death, 1.5 (1.2; 1.9; P = 0.001) for CHF and 1.6 (1.1; 2.2; P = 0.006) for cardiovascular death. None of the other associations were statistically significant.ConclusionsThe presence of AF in a single office ECG had significant prognostic implications with regard to mortality and CHF hospitalizations in patients with AF. These patients present a high‐risk group and might benefit from intensified treatment.
Reduction of circulating sphingosine‐1‐phosphate worsens mdx soleus muscle dystrophic phenotype
Authors: Germinario Elena , Bondì Michela , Blaauw Bert , Betto Romeo , Danieli‐Betto Daniela 
Published: September 2020

New Findings

What is the central question of the study?
What are the consequences of reducing circulating sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P) for muscle physiology in the murine model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD)?

What is the main result and its importance?
Reduction of the circulating S1P level in mdx mice aggravates the dystrophic phenotype, as seen by an increase in fibre atrophy, fibrosis and loss of specific force, suggesting that S1P signalling is a potential therapeutic target in DMD. Although further studies are needed, plasma S1P levels have the intriguing possibility of being used as a biomarker for disease severity, an important issue in DMD.

AbstractSphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P) is an important regulator of skeletal muscle properties. The dystrophin‐deficient mdx mouse possesses low levels of S1P (∼50%) compared with wild type. Increased S1P availability was demonstrated to ameliorate the dystrophic phenotype in Drosophila and in mdx mice. Here, we analysed the effects produced by further reduction of S1P availability on the mass, force and regenerative capacity of dystrophic mdx soleus. Circulating S1P was neutralized by a specific anti‐S1P antibody (S1P‐Ab) known to lower the extracellular concentration of this signalling lipid. The S1P‐Ab was administered intraperitoneally in adult mdx mice every 2 days for the duration of experiments. Soleus muscle properties were analysed 7 or 14 days after the first injection. The decreased availability of circulating S1P after the 14 day treatment reduced mdx soleus fibre cross‐sectional area (−16%, P < 0.05), an effect that was associated with an increase in markers of proteolytic (MuRF1 and atrogin‐1) and autophagic (p62 and LC3‐II/LC3‐I ratio) pathways. Moreover, an increase of fibrosis was also observed (+26%, P < 0.05). Notably, the treatment also caused a reduction of specific tetanic tension (−29%, P < 0.05). The mdx soleus regenerative capacity was only slightly influenced by reduced S1P. In conclusion, neutralization of circulating S1P reduces the mass and specific force and increases fibrosis of mdx soleus muscle, thus worsening the dystrophic phenotype. The results confirm that active, functional S1P signalling might counteract the progression of soleus mdx pathology and validate the pathway as a potential therapeutic target for muscular dystrophies.
Bacterial infections as novel risk factors of severe diabetic retinopathy in individuals with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Simonsen Johan Rasmus , Järvinen Asko , Hietala Kustaa , Harjutsalo Valma , Forsblom Carol , Groop Per-Henrik , Lehto Markku 
Published: September 2020

Background/AimsDiabetic retinopathy (DR) is associated and shares many risk factors with other diabetic complications, including inflammation. Bacterial infections, potent inducers of inflammation have been associated with the development of diabetic complications apart from DR. Our aim was to investigate the association between bacterial infections and DR.MethodsAdult individuals with type 1 diabetes (n=1043) were recruited from the Finnish Diabetic Nephropathy Study (FinnDiane), a prospective follow-up study. DR was defined as incident severe diabetic retinopathy (SDR), identified as first laser treatment. Data on DR were obtained through fundus photographs and medical records, data on bacterial infections from comprehensive national registries (1 January 1995 to 31 December 2015). Risk factors for DR and serum bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) activity were determined at baseline.ResultsIndividuals with incident SDR (n=413) had a higher mean number of antibiotic purchases/follow-up year compared with individuals without incident SDR (n=630) (0.92 [95% CI 0.82 to 1.02] vs 0.67 [0.62–0.73], p=0.02), as well as higher levels of LPS activity (0.61 [0.58–0.65] vs 0.56 [0.54–0.59] EU/mL, p=0.03). Individuals with on average ≥1 purchase per follow-up year (n=269) had 1.5 times higher cumulative incidence of SDR, compared with individuals with <1 purchase (n=774) per follow-up year (52% vs 35%, p<0.001). In multivariable Cox survival models, the mean number of antibiotic purchases per follow-up year as well as LPS activity were risk factors for SDR after adjusting for static confounders (HR 1.16 [1.05–1.27], p=0.002 and HR 2.77 [1.92–3.99], p<0.001, respectively).ConclusionBacterial infections are associated with an increased risk of incident SDR in type 1 diabetes.
One-hour plasma glucose combined with skin autofluorescence identifies subjects with pre-diabetes: the DIAPASON study
Authors: La Sala Lucia , Tagliabue Elena , de Candia Paola , Prattichizzo Francesco , Ceriello Antonio 
Published: September 2020

IntroductionThe major challenge for diabetes prevention is early identification of individuals at risk to allow for implementation of measures to delay the onset of future disease. Measures such as fasting plasma glucose (FPG), 2-hour plasma glucose (2hPG), and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) are equally appropriate for identifying pre-diabetes and diabetes, but do not all identify the disease in the same individual. We tested the utility of a diagnostic method combining FPG, 2hPG and HbA1c for early evaluation and easy identification of pre-diabetes.Research design and methods531 subjects underwent skin autofluorescence (SAF) and glycemia analyses. We created two classification groups based on the American Diabetes Association diagnosis guidelines: (1) based on 2hPG and (2) based on a new combination of three glycemia parameters (the three-criteria strategy (3-c)). Logistic regression modeling was used to estimate the associations.ResultsSAF showed high associations for both 3-c definition and 2hPG definition alone. These associations appeared stronger in 3-c than those in 2hPG. The non-invasive SAF measurement outperformed 2hPG in the detection of dysglycemia or pre-diabetes. Stepwise selections identified 1-hour postload glucose (1hPG) as variable identifying pre-diabetes using the 2hPG criterion, and the model based on 1hPG plus SAF appeared to be the best association using the 3-c strategy.Conclusions1hPG coupled with SAF showed a strong association in the evaluation of pre-diabetes using the 3-c method.
Cost and cost drivers associated with setting-up a prime vendor system to complement the national medicines supply chain in Tanzania
Authors: Kuwawenaruwa August , Wyss Kaspar , Wiedenmayer Karin , Tediosi Fabrizio 
Published: September 2020

IntroductionEconomic analysis of supply chain management interventions to improve the availability of healthcare commodities at healthcare facilities is important in generating evidence for decision-makers. The current study assesses the cost and cost drivers for setting-up a public-private partnership programme in Tanzania in which all public healthcare facility orders for complementary medicines are pooled at the district level, and then purchased from one contracted supplier, the prime vendor (referred to as ‘Jazia Prime Vendor System’ (Jazia PVS)).MethodsFinancial and economic costs of Jazia PVS were collected retrospectively and using the ingredients approach. The financial costs were spread over the implementation period of January 2014–July 2019. In addition, we estimated the financial rollout costs of Jazia PVS to the other 23 regions in the country over 2 years (2018–2019). A multivariate sensitivity analysis was conducted on the estimates.ResultsJazia PVS start-up and recurrent financial costs amounted to US$2 170 989.74 and US$709 302.32, respectively. The main cost drivers were costs for short-term experts, training of staff and healthcare workers and the Jazia PVS technical and board management activities. The start-up financial cost per facility was US$2819.47 and cost per capita was US$0.37.ConclusionIn conclusion, the study provides useful information on the cost and cost drivers for setting-up a complementary pharmaceutical supply system to complement an existing system in low-income settings. Despite the substantial costs incurred in the initial investment and operations of the Jazia PVS, the new framework is effective in achieving the desired purpose of improving availability of healthcare commodities.
Use of eHealth in the management of pulmonary arterial hypertension: review of the literature
Authors: Gonzalez-Garcia Manuel C , Fatehi Farhad , Varnfield Marlien , Ding Hang , Karunanithi Mohan , Yang Ian , Cordina Rachael , Feenstra John 
Published: September 2020

BackgroundPulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a severe chronic condition associated with poor quality of life and high risks of mortality and hospitalisation. The utilisation of novel diagnostic technologies has improved survival rates although the effectiveness of Electronic Health (eHealth) interventions in patients with a chronic cardiopulmonary disease remains controversial. As the effectiveness of eHealth can be established by specific evaluation for different chronic health conditions, the aim of this study was to explore and summarise the utilisation of eHealth in PAH.MethodWe searched PubMed, CINAHL and Embase for all studies reporting clinical trials on eHealth solutions for the management of PAH. No limitations in terms of study design or date of publication were imposed.Results18 studies (6 peer-reviewed journal papers and 12 conference papers) were identified. Seven studies addressed the accuracy, safety or reliability of eHealth technologies such as intra-arterial haemodynamic monitoring of the pulmonary artery pressure, self-administered 6-Minute walk test App, computerised step-pulse oximeter and ambulatory impedance cardiography. Two studies evaluated eHealth as part of the medical management and showed a reduction in hospitalisation rate.ConclusionsThe evidence of eHealth supporting the management of people with PAH is limited and only embraced through a few studies of small sample size and short-term duration. Given the proposed clinical benefits in heart failure, we postulate that the evaluation of eHealth for the clinical management of PAH is highly warranted.
Case-control study on ocular changes and ophthalmic Doppler velocimetric indices among preeclamptic and normotensive pregnant women in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Onwudiegwu Chiemelie , Adekanmi Ademola , Olusanya Bolutife , Lawal Olatunji , Adedokun Babatunde , Morhason-Bello Imran , Oladokun Adesina 
Published: September 2020

ObjectiveTo compare the ocular changes and Doppler velocimetric indices in preeclamptic and normotensive pregnant women.Methods and analysisThis was a case-control study of 71 preeclamptic women and 72 parity-matched normotensive pregnant women conducted at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria. Demographic data were obtained using questionnaires. All participants had visual acuity assessment, funduscopy, intraocular pressure measurement and orbital Doppler ultrasonography. The differences in parameters between the two groups were tested using Student’s t-test for quantitative variables and χ2tests for categorical variables.ResultsThere were no significant differences between cases and controls with respect to sociodemographic variables. The mean pulsatility index was 1.35±0.46 in cases and 2.1±0.4 in controls (p<0.001); the resistivity index was 0.7±0.18 in cases and 0.83±0.27 among the controls (p=0.01). A similar pattern was observed in the peak systolic velocity (p<0.001) and the peak ratio (p<0.001). There was no significant difference between the groups concerning end-diastolic velocity (p=0.535). Three preeclampsia patients (5.2%) had abnormalities on funduscopy compared with none of the controls. Preeclamptic women had significantly higher intraocular pressures in both eyes at baseline and at 24 hours post delivery.ConclusionThis study demonstrated lower Doppler velocimetry and impedance parameters and higher intraocular pressure among preeclampsia cases compared with controls. Abnormal funduscopic findings were observed in a few preeclamptic women and none among the controls. Ophthalmic artery Doppler parameters could be useful in identifying those women who are likely to suffer preeclampsia and its complications.
Consensus guidelines on managing Rett syndrome across the lifespan
Authors: Fu Cary , Armstrong Dallas , Marsh Eric , Lieberman David , Motil Kathleen , Witt Rochelle , Standridge Shannon , Nues Paige , Lane Jane , Dinkel Tristen , Coenraads Monica , von Hehn Jana , Jones Mary , Hale Katie , Suter Bernhard , Glaze Daniel , Neul Jeffrey , Percy Alan , Benke Timothy 
Published: September 2020

BackgroundRett syndrome (RTT) is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder with complex medical comorbidities extending beyond the nervous system requiring the attention of health professionals. There is no peer-reviewed, consensus-based therapeutic guidance to care in RTT. The objective was to provide consensus on guidance of best practice for addressing these concerns.MethodsInformed by the literature and using a modified Delphi approach, a consensus process was used to develop guidance for care in RTT by health professionals.ResultsTypical RTT presents early in childhood in a clinically recognisable fashion. Multisystem comorbidities evolve throughout the lifespan requiring coordination of care between primary care and often multiple subspecialty providers. To assist health professionals and families in seeking best practice, a checklist and detailed references for guidance were developed by consensus.ConclusionsThe overall multisystem issues of RTT require primary care providers and other health professionals to manage complex medical comorbidities within the context of the whole individual and family. Given the median life expectancy well into the sixth decade, guidance is provided to health professionals to achieve current best possible outcomes for these special-needs individuals.