bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Exercise stress echocardiography of the pulmonary circulation and right ventricular-arterial coupling in healthy adolescents
Authors: Forton Kevin , Motoji Yoshiki , Caravita Sergio , Faoro Vitalie , Naeije Robert 
Published: April 2020

AbstractAims To explore the effects of age and sex in adolescents vs. young or middle-aged adults on pulmonary vascular function and right ventricular-arterial (RV-PA) coupling as assessed by exercise stress echocardiography.Methods and results Forty healthy adolescents aged 12–15 years were compared with 40 young adults aged 17–22 years and 40 middle-aged adults aged 30–50 years. Sex distribution was equal in the three groups. All the subjects underwent an exercise stress echocardiography. A pulmonary vascular distensibility coefficient α was determined from multipoint pulmonary vascular pressure–flow relationships. RV-PA coupling was assessed by the tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) to systolic pulmonary artery pressure (PASP) ratio, who has been previously validated by invasive study. While cardiac index and mean PAP were not different, adolescents compared to young and middle-aged adults, respectively had higher pulmonary vascular distensibility coefficients α (1.60 ± 0.31%/mmHg vs. 1.39 ± 0.29%/mmHg vs. 1.20 ± 0.35%/mmHg, P &lt; 0.00001). Adolescents and young adults compared to middle-aged adults, respectively had higher TAPSE/PASP ratios at rest (1.24 ± 0.18 mm/mmHg and 1.22 ± 0.17 mm/mmHg vs. 1.07 ± 0.18 mm/mmHg, P &lt; 0.008) and during exercise (0.86 ± 0.24, 0.80 ± 0.15 and 0.72 ± 0.15 mm/mmHg, P &lt; 0.04). The TAPSE/PASP ratio decreased with exercise. There were no sex differences in α or TAPSE/PASP.Conclusion Compared to adults, adolescents present with a sex-independent more distensible pulmonary circulation. Resting and exercise RV-PA coupling is decreased in middle-aged adults.
Indirect comparison of the efficacy and safety of alirocumab and evolocumab: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Guedeney Paul , Sorrentino Sabato , Giustino Gennaro , Chapelle Celine , Laporte Silvy , Claessen Bimmer E , Ollier Edouard , Camaj Anton , Kalkman Deborah N , Vogel Birgit , De Rosa Salvatore , Indolfi Ciro , Lattuca Benoit , Zeitouni Michel , Kerneis Mathieu , Silvain Johanne , Collet Jean-Philippe , Mehran Roxana , Montalescot Gilles 
Published: April 2020

Abstract

Aims
Although alirocumab and evolocumab have both been associated with improved outcomes in patients with dyslipidaemia or established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, data on their respective performances are scarce. This study aimed at providing an indirect comparison of the efficacy and safety of alirocumab vs. evolocumab.

Methods and results
We conducted a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized trials comparing alirocumab or evolocumab to placebo with consistent background lipid-lowering therapy up to November 2018. We estimated the relative risk (RR) and the 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using fixed-effect model in a frequentist pairwise and network meta-analytic approach. A total of 30 trials, enrolling 59 026 patients were included. Eligibility criteria varied significantly across trials evaluating alirocumab and evolocumab. Compared with evolocumab, alirocumab was associated with a significant reduction in all-cause death (RR 0.80, 95% CI 0.66–0.97) but not in cardiovascular death (RR 0.83, 95% CI 0.65–1.05). This study did not find any significant differences in myocardial infarction (RR 1.15, 95% CI 0.99–1.34), stroke (RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.71–1.28), or coronary revascularization (RR 1.13, 95% CI 0.99–1.29) between the two agents. Alirocumab was associated with a 27% increased risk of injection site reaction compared to evolocumab; however, no significant differences were found in terms of treatment discontinuations, systemic allergic reaction, neurocognitive events, ophthalmologic events, or new-onset of or worsening of pre-existing diabetes.

Conclusion
Alirocumab and evolocumab share a similar safety profile except for injection site reaction. No significant differences were observed across the efficacy endpoints, except for all-cause death, which may be related to the heterogeneity of the studied populations treated with the two drugs.
Leadless pacemaker implantation quality: importance of the operator’s experience
Authors: Haeberlin Andreas , Kozhuharov Nikola , Knecht Sven , Tanner Hildegard , Schaer Beat , Noti Fabian , Osswald Stefan , Servatius Helge , Baldinger Samuel , Seiler Jens , Lam Anna , Mosher Luke , Sticherling Christian , Roten Laurent , Kühne Michael , Reichlin Tobias 
Published: April 2020

Abstract

Aims
Leadless cardiac pacemaker (PM) implantation differs from conventional PM implantation. While the procedure has been considered safe, recent real-world data raised concerns about the learning curve of new operators and their implantation quality. The goal of this study was to investigate the influence of the first operator’s experience on leadless PM implantation quality and procedural efficiency.

Methods and results
We performed a bicentric analysis of all Micra TPS™ implantations in two large tertiary referral hospitals. We assessed both leadless PM implantation quality based on the absence of complications (requiring intervention or prolonged hospitalization), good electrical performance (pacing threshold ≤ 1.5 V/0.24 ms, R-wave amplitude &gt; 5 mV), and acceptable fluoroscopy duration (&lt;10 min) as well as procedural efficiency in relation to the operator’s experience. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify predictors for implantation quality and procedural efficiency. Leadless PM implantation was successful in 106/111 cases (95.5%). Three patients (2.7%) experienced acute complications (one cardiac tamponade, one femoral bleeding, one posture-related PM exit block). Multivariate analysis showed that implantation quality of more experienced first operators was higher [odds ratio 1.09 (95% confidence interval 1.00–1.19), P = 0.05]. Procedural efficiency increased with operator experience as evidenced by an inverse correlation of procedure time, time to the first deployment, fluoroscopy time, and the number of procedures performed (all P &lt; 0.05).

Conclusion
The operator’s learning curve is a critical factor for leadless PM implantation quality and procedural efficiency.
The effect of temperature on sulfur and oxygen isotope fractionation by sulfate reducing bacteria (Desulfococcus multivorans)
Authors: Pellerin André , Antler Gilad , Marietou Angeliki , Turchyn Alexandra V , Jørgensen Bo Barker 
Published: April 2020

ABSTRACT
Temperature influences microbiological growth and catabolic rates. Between 15 and 35 °C the growth rate and cell specific sulfate reduction rate of the sulfate reducing bacterium Desulfococcus multivorans increased with temperature. Sulfur isotope fractionation during sulfate reduction decreased with increasing temperature from 27.2 ‰ at 15 °C to 18.8 ‰ at 35 °C which is consistent with a decreasing reversibility of the metabolic pathway as the catabolic rate increases. Oxygen isotope fractionation, in contrast, decreased between 15 and 25 °C and then increased again between 25 and 35 °C, suggesting increasing reversibility in the first steps of the sulfate reducing pathway at higher temperatures. This points to a decoupling in the reversibility of sulfate reduction between the steps from the uptake of sulfate into the cell to the formation of sulfite, relative to the whole pathway from sulfate to sulfide. This observation is consistent with observations of increasing sulfur isotope fractionation when sulfate reducing bacteria are living near their upper temperature limit. The oxygen isotope decoupling may be a first signal of changing physiology as the bacteria cope with higher temperatures.
Yeast Mycocins: a great potential for application in health
Authors: Nascimento Bruna L , Delabeneta Mateus F , Rosseto Lana Rubia B , Junges Daniele S B , Paris Ana Paula , Persel Cristiane , Gandra Rinaldo F 
Published: April 2020

ABSTRACT
Mycocins have demonstrated inhibition of fungi, bacteria, parasites and viruses, in addition to being studied as epidemiological markers and in the development of vaccines. They are defined as extracellular proteins or glycoproteins with different activities, the main mechanism of action being the inhibition of β-glucan synthesis in the cell wall of sensitive strains. Given the resistance problems created by several microorganisms to agents commonly used in clinical practice, the discovery of new substances with this purpose becomes essential. Mycocins have potential as anti-microbials because they show minimal toxicity and do not present resistance.
SOCIAL ISOLATION AND OLDER ADULTS: UNDERSTANDING THEIR EXPERIENCE
Authors: Jeffery Bonnie , McIntosh Tom , Novik Nuelle 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
This presentation will focus on a unique undertaking where three provincial organizations in Saskatchewan, Canada implemented nine projects to address social isolation for rural and urban older adults across a geography that encompasses one-half of the province. A survey of older adults was conducted to assess their level of social isolation in order to gain a more thorough understanding of the experiences of social isolation among community dwelling older adults. Key variables of interest included: older adult access to services and supports, participation in activities, feelings of being valued by others, barriers to supports and services, and the overall isolation experienced by older adults. The responses from 1,719 urban and rural older adults indicate that 24.1% of respondents felt that they lack support, 17.2% feel less connected to family and friends, and 16.8% of respondents do not feel valued by their friends and family. Overall, almost one-quarter (23.9%) of the survey respondents score ‘high’ or ‘medium’ on a Social Isolation Index. One-third of respondents report they experience barriers to participation in activities outside the home. Several key categories of barriers were identified: health, personal, environmental, social, transportation and systemic. Respondents identified accommodation, services, practices, and activities as areas where their community could assist in participation of community activities outside of the home. Social isolation can have serious health consequences for older adults. The results of this survey highlight several key areas that older adults identify as important for reducing their feelings of isolation and enhancing their overall health and well-being.
ORGANIZATIONAL FACTORS RELATED TO RESIDENT-REPORTED QUALITY OF LIFE IN NURSING HOMES
Authors: Zúñiga Franziska , Hahn Sabine 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Few studies so far take a broader perspective at staffing in nursing homes (NH) including e.g. the impact of activity staff on quality outcomes. Moreover, few assess resident-reported quality of life (QoL). Examining the relationship of organizational and resident factors with QoL, we report the results from a questionnaire survey of organizational characteristics from 51 Swiss nursing homes and of structured interviews with 863 residents. Residents rated their quality of life with a single item. A logistic regression model was applied. At the organizational level, a higher number of activity staff was significantly related to QoL, while at resident level, both the possibility to select their NH and less care dependency were significant predictors. Meaningful activities as well as autonomous decision-making concerning one’s living place seem of paramount importance for residents’ better perception of their QoL. NH staff mix needs to address the possibility to offer enjoyable activities.
OF VALUES AND P-VALUES: USING MIXED METHODS TO STUDY FAMILIES AND RELIGION IN THE LONGITUDINAL STUDY OF GENERATIONS
Authors: Silverstein Merril D 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
In this presentation we discuss challenges and opportunities presented by the use of mixed methods to study continuity, change, and conflict related to religion—and the absence of religion—in multigenerational families. Discussion centers on the complementarity of quantitative and qualitative approaches, strategic decisions in tone and emphasis of the manuscript, and uncertainties in navigating the peer review process. An empirical example is provided to illustrates these points. We present an analysis that tracked patterns of religious change across three generations using survey data and in depth interviews emphasizing epistemological issues in knowledge generation.
GEOGRAPHIC DISPARITIES IN LIFE EXPECTANCY AND MORTALITY IN THE U.S.
Authors: Kravchenko Julia , Lyerly H Kim 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Although the US has one of the highest per-capita health expenditures in the world, it noticeably lags behind a number of other industrialized countries in terms of life expectancy (LE). These disparities remain unexplained by individual demographic, socioeconomic, and healthcare factors. Analysis of death certificates for 1999-2016 revealed that diseases contributed most to LE variability are myocardial infarction (explained 12.9% of the difference in mortality), heart failure (10.6%), stroke (8.2%), lung cancer (7.5%) and COPD (7.2%). Analysis of histories of diseased patients in Medicare records showed that septicemia (15.7%), low weight (13.8%), renal disease (13.3%), disorders of electrolyte and fluid balance (9.0%) and heart failure (7.3%) contributed most to the disparities. Diseases that substantially contribute to disparities in LE in the US include both common and less-often-discussed diseases. Future studies of variations in treatment patterns, access-to and quality-of medical care for these diseases could provide important insight in observed patterns.
USING DATA SCIENCE TO GENERATE PSYCHOSOCIAL PROFILES OF FINANCIAL EXPLOITATION IN SENIORS
Authors: Enzler Cassandra J , Suchting Robert , Green Charles , Burnett Jason 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Financial exploitation (FE) in older adults is a significant public health problem linked to outcomes including depression, financial ruin and early mortality. This study applied exploratory data science techniques to a multi-year statewide protective services dataset of over 8,000 elder abuse cases. The goal was to derive data-driven psychosocial profiles of abuse with an emphasis on determining which factors, commonly shared across abuse cases, were most important for determining when elder FE was occurring and whether it was occurring alone or in conjunction with other types of abuse. We found that pronounced psychological distress (i.e. verbalizing suicide, homicide, self-harm) was most important for indicating when abuse had occurred and predicted non-FE related abuse. Drug paraphernalia in the home and perpetrator drug/alcohol use were important predictors of FE-related abuse. When differentiating pure FE from hybrid FE, factors indicative of long-term FE occurrence and substantial financial loss were most important (i.e. facing foreclosure, lack of food, medications, and utilities). The findings parallel some existing work characterizing pure and hybrid FE, but also highlight new profile factors that may help determine when FE is occurring and when it is less likely. Applying data science approaches to other large protective service datasets and national datasets such as the National Adult Maltreatment Registry could help improve characterization of abuse types such as pure and hybrid FE resulting in better detection, response and prevention.
INCIDENT DIFFICULTY IN INSTRUMENTAL ACTIVITIES OF DAILY LIVING: WHICH COMES FIRST?
Authors: Feger Danielle L , Rebok George W , Willis Sherry , Gross Alden L 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Background: Instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) are necessary for successful independent living. Older adults may develop difficulty completing IADLs as they become physically and/or cognitively frail. The relative ordering in which IADLs deteriorate, and the importance of this ordering, is not well understood. Methods: Participants from the Advanced Cognitive Training for Independent and Vital Elderly (ACTIVE) study who reported no difficulty with IADLs at baseline were included. Individuals were followed up to 10 years for incidence of self-reported difficulty in 19 specific IADLs. The outcome of interest was time to any incident difficulty. We used Cox proportional hazards regression to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) of incident IADL difficulty for each IADL. Results: Of N=1,273 participants who contributed 6,144 person-years to the analysis, 887 developed difficulty with at least 1 IADL during the study period. The tasks in which participants reported difficulty earliest included giving self-injections (HR=5.69, [4.77, 6.79]), balancing checkbooks (HR=5.56, [4.32-7.16]), remembering often called numbers without having to look them up (HR=5.47, [4.55-6.59]), and household chores (HR=4.18, [3.43-5.11]). The last tasks to become difficult included keeping household expenses balanced (HR=0.07, [0.04-0.14]) and hanging up at the end of a phone call (HR=0.23, [0.09-0.56]). Conclusion: Independent older adults reported earlier difficulty with balancing checkbooks, remembering often called phone numbers, and doing household cleaning. Recognizing these early difficult tasks may facilitate early planning for family members and adoption of compensatory strategies.
FEEL YOUNGER, THINK YOUNGER? THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MOMENTARY FLUCTUATIONS OF SUBJECTIVE AGE AND MIND-WANDERING
Authors: Hughes Matthew L , Touron Dayna 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Subjective age is susceptible to day-to-day influence from external factors (e.g., stress), but it is not known how it fluctuates throughout the day. Mind-wandering, when one’s concentration is not on the task at hand, can be induced in a laboratory, but less is known about older adults’ mind-wandering in everyday life. This pre-registered study used experience sampling to investigate the relationship between mind-wandering and subjective age. Participants ages 50 years and older carried iPods for 7 days. Participants received 8 daily probes asking questions about mind-wandering and subjective age. Subjective age was assessed using an unmarked sliding scale between 0 and 120 years. For the first time, we demonstrated subjective age fluctuation within each day, with an average coefficient of variation of 12.40 (range 9.73–47.56). Participants also reported mind wandering about 34% of the time. Multilevel modeling provides insight into the relationship between everyday fluctuations of subjective age and mind-wandering.
REASONS FOR RELOCATING TO ASSISTED LIVING: THE PUSH, THE PULL, AND DECISIONAL CONTROL
Authors: Plys Evan 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Using the push-pull framework, this study describes reasons for relocation and self-reported decisional control in the move to assisted living (AL). A sample of 202 residents of 21 ALs responded to a semi-structured questionnaire regarding their relocation. Participants most commonly relocated from a private local residence (n = 80, 40%), hospital/rehab facility (n = 27, 13%), or private long-distance residence (n = 24, 12%). The most frequently reported pull reasons to relocate to an AL were: “security and safety” (n = 46), “closer to family or friends” (n = 43), and “appearance of the facility” (n = 40). The most frequently reported push reasons to relocate from a previous residence were: “health problems” (n = 94), “others planned the move” (n = 87), and “fear of an accident” (n = 53). On average, participants who moved from other ALs reported the most decisional control in the move (M = 3.94, SD = 1.47), while participants from hospitals/rehab facilities reported the lowest control (M = 2.48, SD = 1.42). On average, participants who relocated from other ALs reported the most pull factors (M = 2.67, SD = 1.15), while participants from independent living communities reported the most push factors (M = 2.53, SD = 1.46). Results suggest that current residents commonly cite safety as both a push and pull reason for relocating to their AL. In addition, reasons for relocation and decisional control varied based on previous residence, which may be useful for identifying AL residents at risk for relocation stress.
PSYCHOSOCIAL AND CULTURAL PAIN EXPERIENCES AND SELF-MANAGEMENT ACROSS DIVERSE OLDER ADULT POPULATIONS
Authors: Booker Staja , Roach Keesha 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Racial/ethnic minority older adults experience a disproportionate burden of functionally-disabling chronic pain. However, minimal research in pain and aging has fully explicated the unique and endemic psychosocial and cultural factors that strongly influence appraisal, communication, and management/coping of pain. Yet, to fully engage with and care for diverse racial/ethnic older adults, intentional responsiveness to these factors is necessary. This symposium features under-represented racial/ethnic older adult populations and multiple methodologies, including advanced imaging techniques, to understand various psychosocial and cultural factors associated with chronic pain. Our first presenter, Dr. Lor, uses qualitative inquiry to examine pain-associated language and expression of pain in Hmong older adults, which is often laden with stress and misunderstanding. Following is Dr. Taylor who will discuss the mediating effect of stress and coping on bodily pain in inner-city Black older adults. Dr. Terry will present novel findings on the association between catastrophizing (i.e., negative cognitive and emotional response to actual or anticipated pain resulting in feelings of helplessness) and brain structure in non-Hispanic Black and White adults with or at high-risk for knee osteoarthritis pain. This presentation will segway into culturally-relevant pain self-management practices and the role of social support specifically for Blacks from urban Detroit, as presented by Dr. Janevic. We will conclude with Dr. Booker presenting mixed-level data on the lack of familial and social networks and provider support for osteoarthritis pain self-management in Southern-dwelling older Blacks. This symposium extends the knowledge on the nuanced complexity of biopsychosocial and cultural dynamics underlying the pain experience.
DO PSYCHOSOCIAL RESOURCES CONFER PHYSIOLOGICAL RISK? EXAMINING ALLOSTATIC LOAD BLACK MEN ACROSS THE LIFE COURSE
Authors: Tobin Courtney S Thomas , Thorpe Jr Roland J 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Research suggests positive psychosocial resources promote resilience, although this has been underexplored among Black men. The present study identified profiles of psychosocial resilience and examined their association with allostatic load (AL) among young, middle-aged, and older Black men. Data come from 283 Black men in the Nashville Stress and Health Study. Latent class analysis (LCA) identified resource profiles comprised of eight psychosocial resources across four categories (coping strategies, sense of control, racial identity, social support). Logistic regression was used to estimate the odds of high AL (5+ high-risk indicators) across classes. LCA indicated three latent classes: low (33%), moderate (26%), and high (41%) psychosocial resources. Unexpectedly, individuals in the high resilience class had the greatest relative odds of high AL; high resilience worsened health for older but not younger Black men. Findings suggest elevated levels of resources resilience may undermine physical health in this population.