bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Natural History of Disseminated Coccidioidomycosis: Examination of the Veterans Affairs–Armed Forces Database
Authors: Bays Derek J , Thompson George R , Reef Susan , Snyder Linda , Freifeld Alana J , Huppert Milt , Salkin David , Wilson Machelle D , Galgiani John N 
Published: August 2020

Abstract

Background
The natural history of non–central nervous system (non-CNS) disseminated coccidioidomycosis (DCM) has not been previously characterized. The historical Veterans Affairs (VA)–Armed Forces coccidioidomycosis patient group provides a unique cohort of patients not treated with standard antifungal therapy, allowing for characterization of the natural history of coccidioidomycosis.

Methods
We conducted a retrospective study of 531 VA–Armed Forces coccidioidomycosis patients diagnosed between 1955–1958 and followed to 1966. Groups were identified as non-DCM (462 patients), DCM (44 patients), and CNS (25 patients). The duration of the initial infection, fate of the primary infection, all-cause mortality, and mortality secondary to coccidioidomycosis were assessed and compared between groups.

Results
Mortality due to coccidioidomycosis at the last known follow-up was significantly different across the groups: 0.65% in the non-DCM group, 25% in the DCM group, and 88% in the CNS group (P &lt; .001). The primary fate of pulmonary infection demonstrated key differences, with pulmonary nodules observed in 39.61% of the non-DCM group, 13.64% of the DCM group, and 20% of the CNS group (P &lt; .001). There were differences in cavity formation, with 34.20% in the non-DCM group, 9.09% in the DCM group, and 8% in the CNS group (P &lt; .001). Dissemination was the presenting manifestation or was concurrent with the initial infection in 41% and 56% of patients in the non-CNS DCM and CNS groups, respectively.

Conclusions
This large, retrospective cohort study helps characterize the natural history of DCM, provides insight into the host immunologic response, and has direct clinical implications for the management and follow-up of patients.
Urinary fetuin-A peptides as a new marker for impaired kidney function in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Magalhães Pedro , Zürbig Petra , Mischak Harald , Schleicher Erwin 
Published: August 2020

AbstractBackgroundThe hepatokine fetuin-A, released by the human liver, promotes pro-inflammatory effects of perivascular fat. The involvement of inflammation in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) can affect the kidney and contribute to the development of diabetic kidney disease. Therefore we examined the association of urinary fetuin-A protein fragments with renal damage in T2DM patients.MethodsUrinary peptides of 1491 individuals using proteome data available from the human urine proteome database were analysed. Prediction of proteases involved in urinary peptide generation was performed using the Proteasix tool.ResultsWe identified 14 different urinary protein fragments that belong to the region of the connecting peptide (amino acid 301–339) of the total fetuin-A protein. Calpains (CAPN1 and CAPN2), matrix metalloproteinase and pepsin A-3 were identified as potential proteases that were partially confirmed by previous in vitro studies. Combined fetuin-A peptides (mean of amplitudes) were significantly increased in T2DM patients with kidney disease and to a lesser extent with cardiovascular risk. Furthermore, fetuin-A peptide levels displayed a significant negative correlation with baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) values (r = −0.316, P &lt; 0.0001) and with the slope (%) of eGFR per year (r = −0.096, P = 0.023). A multiple regression model including fetuin-A peptide and albuminuria resulted in a significantly improved correlation with eGFR (r = −0.354, P &lt; 0.0001) compared with albuminuria, indicating an added value of this novel biomarker.ConclusionsThe urinary proteome analysis demonstrated the association of fetuin-A peptides with impaired kidney function in T2DM patients. Furthermore, fetuin-A peptides displayed early signs of kidney damage before albuminuria appeared and therefore can be used as markers for kidney disease detection.
Migratory status determines resource selection by American Woodcock at an important fall stopover, Cape May, New Jersey
Authors: Allen Brian B , McAuley Daniel G , Blomberg Erik J 
Published: August 2020

AbstractMigration is a period of high activity and exposure during which risks and energetic demand on individuals may be greater than during nonmigratory periods. Stopover locations can help mitigate these threats by providing supplemental energy en route to the animal’s end destination. Effective conservation of migratory species therefore requires an understanding of use of space that provides resources to migratory animals at stopover sites. We conducted a radio-telemetry study of a short-distance migrant, the American Woodcock (Scolopax minor), at an important stopover site, the Cape May Peninsula, New Jersey. Our objectives were to describe land-cover types used by American Woodcock and evaluate home range habitat selection for individuals that stopover during fall migration and those that choose to overwinter. We radio-marked 271 individuals and collected 1,949 locations from these birds (0–21 points individual–1) over 4 yr (2010 to 2013) to inform resource selection functions of land-cover types and other landscape characteristics by this species. We evaluated these relationships at multiple spatial extents for (1) birds known to have ultimately left the peninsula (presumed migrants), and (2) birds known to have remained on the peninsula into the winter (presumed winter residents). We found that migrants selected deciduous wetland forest, agriculture, mixed shrub, coniferous wetland forest, and coniferous shrub, while wintering residents selected deciduous wetland forest, coniferous shrub, and deciduous shrub. We used these results to develop predictive models of potential habitat: 7.80% of the peninsula was predicted to be potential stopover habitat for American Woodcock (95% classification accuracy) and 4.96% of the peninsula was predicted to be potential wintering habitat (85% classification accuracy). Our study is the first to report habitat relationships for migratory American Woodcock in the coastal U.S. and provides important spatial tools for local and regional managers to support migratory and winter resident woodcock populations into the future.
Mechanism of succinate efflux upon reperfusion of the ischaemic heart
Authors: Prag Hiran A , Gruszczyk Anja V , Huang Margaret M , Beach Timothy E , Young Timothy , Tronci Laura , Nikitopoulou Efterpi , Mulvey John F , Ascione Raimondo , Hadjihambi Anna , Shattock Michael J , Pellerin Luc , Saeb-Parsy Kourosh , Frezza Christian , James Andrew M , Krieg Thomas , Murphy Michael P , Aksentijević Dunja 
Published: August 2020

Abstract

Aims
Succinate accumulates several-fold in the ischaemic heart and is then rapidly oxidized upon reperfusion, contributing to reactive oxygen species production by mitochondria. In addition, a significant amount of the accumulated succinate is released from the heart into the circulation at reperfusion, potentially activating the G-protein-coupled succinate receptor (SUCNR1). However, the factors that determine the proportion of succinate oxidation or release, and the mechanism of this release, are not known.

Methods and results
To address these questions, we assessed the fate of accumulated succinate upon reperfusion of anoxic cardiomyocytes, and of the ischaemic heart both ex vivo and in vivo. The release of accumulated succinate was selective and was enhanced by acidification of the intracellular milieu. Furthermore, pharmacological inhibition, or haploinsufficiency of the monocarboxylate transporter 1 (MCT1) significantly decreased succinate efflux from the reperfused heart.

Conclusion
Succinate release upon reperfusion of the ischaemic heart is mediated by MCT1 and is facilitated by the acidification of the myocardium during ischaemia. These findings will allow the signalling interaction between succinate released from reperfused ischaemic myocardium and SUCNR1 to be explored.
Global variations in the prevalence, treatment, and impact of atrial fibrillation in a multi-national cohort of 153 152 middle-aged individuals
Authors: Joseph Philip G , Healey Jeffrey S , Raina Parminder , Connolly Stuart J , Ibrahim Quazi , Gupta Rajeev , Avezum Alvaro , Dans Antonio L , Lopez-Jaramillo Patricio , Yeates Karen , Teo Koon , Douma Reuben , Bahonar Ahmad , Chifamba Jephat , Lanas Fernando , Dagenais Gilles R , Lear Scott A , Kumar Rajesh , Kengne Andre P , Keskinler Mirac , Mohan Viswanathan , Mony Prem , Alhabib Khalid F , Huisman Hugo , Iype Thomas , Zatonska Katarzyna , Ismail Rosnah , Kazmi Khawar , Rosengren Annika , Rahman Omar , Yusufali Afzalhussein , Wei Li , Orlandini Andres , Islam Shofiqul , Rangarajan Sumathy , Yusuf Salim ,   the PURE Investigators
Published: August 2020

Abstract

Aims
To compare the prevalence of electrocardiogram (ECG)-documented atrial fibrillation (or flutter) (AF) across eight regions of the world, and to examine antithrombotic use and clinical outcomes.

Methods and results
Baseline ECGs were collected in 153 152 middle-aged participants (ages 35–70 years) to document AF in two community-based studies, spanning 20 countries. Medication use and clinical outcome data (mean follow-up of 7.4 years) were available in one cohort. Cross-sectional analyses were performed to document the prevalence of AF and medication use, and associations between AF and clinical events were examined prospectively. Mean age of participants was 52.1 years, and 57.7% were female. Age and sex-standardized prevalence of AF varied 12-fold between regions; with the highest in North America, Europe, China, and Southeast Asia (270–360 cases per 100 000 persons); and lowest in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (30–60 cases per 100 000 persons) (P &lt; 0.001). Compared with low-income countries (LICs), AF prevalence was 7-fold higher in middle-income countries (MICs) and 11-fold higher in high-income countries (HICs) (P &lt; 0.001). Differences in AF prevalence remained significant after adjusting for traditional AF risk factors. In LICs/MICs, 24% of participants with AF and a CHADS2 score ≥1 received antithrombotic therapy, compared with 85% in HICs. AF was associated with an increased risk of stroke [hazard ratio (HR) 2.29; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.49–3.52] and death (HR 2.97; 95% CI 2.25–3.93); with similar rates in different countries grouped by income level.

Conclusions
Large variations in AF prevalence occur in different regions and countries grouped by income level, but this is only partially explained by traditional AF risk factors. Antithrombotic therapy is infrequently used in poorer countries despite the high risk of stroke associated with AF.
Gut Microbial Transcytosis Induced by Tumour Necrosis Factor-like 1A-dependent Activation of a Myosin Light Chain Kinase Splice Variant Contributes to Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Pai Yu-Chen , Weng Li-Ting , Wei Shu-Chen , Wu Li-Ling , Shih David Q , Targan Stephen R , Turner Jerrold R , Yu Linda Chia-Hui 
Published: August 2020

Abstract

Background
Inflammatory bowel disease [IBD] is characterised by abnormal host-microbe interactions. Proinflammatory cytokine IFNγ and a novel tumour necrosis factor [TNF] superfamily member, TL1A, have been implicated in epithelial barrier dysfunction. The divergent regulatory mechanisms of transcellular versus paracellular hyperpermeability remain poorly understood. Intestinal epithelia express two splice variants of long myosin light chain kinase [MLCK], of which the full-length MLCK1 differ from the shorter isoform MLCK2 by an Src kinase phosphorylation site. The aim of this study was to investigate the roles of MLCK splice variants in gut barrier defects under proinflammatory stress.

Methods and Results
Upregulated expression of TL1A, IFNγ, and two MLCK variants was observed in human IBD biopsy specimens. The presence of intraepithelial bacteria preceded tight junction [TJ] damage in dextran sodium sulphate-treated and TL1A-transgenic mouse models. Lack of barrier defects was observed in long MLCK[-/-] mice. TL1A induced MLCK-dependent terminal web [TW] contraction, brush border fanning, and transepithelial bacterial internalisation. The bacterial taxa identified in the inflamed colonocytes included Escherichia, Enterococcus, Staphylococcus, and Lactobacillus. Recombinant TL1A and IFNγ at low doses induced PI3K/Akt/MLCK2-dependent bacterial endocytosis, whereas high-dose IFNγ caused TJ opening via the iNOS/Src/MLCK1 axis. Bacterial internalisation was recapitulated in MLCK-knockout cells individually expressing MLCK2 but not MLCK1. Immunostaining showed different subcellular sites of phosphorylated MLC localised to the TJ and TW in the MLCK1- and MLCK2-expressing cells, respectively.

Conclusions
Proinflammatory cytokines induced bacterial influx through transcellular and paracellular routes via divergent pathways orchestrated by distinct MLCK isoforms. Bacterial transcytosis induced by TL1A may be an alternative route causing symptom flares in IBD.
Subcoronary Ross/Ross–Konno operation in children and young adults: initial single-centre experience
Authors: Murin Peter , Weixler Viktoria H.M , Moulla-Zeghouane Jasmin , Romanchenko Olga , Schleiger Anastasia , Lorenzen Victoria , Sinzobahamvya Nicodème , Zacek Pavel , Photiadis Joachim , Cho Mi-Young 
Published: August 2020

Abstract

OBJECTIVES

We sought to evaluate the outcome after modified subcoronary Ross/Ross–Konno operation in children and young adults.

METHODS
Between January 2013 and January 2019, a total of 50 patients with median age of 6.3 years (range 0.02–36.5 years, 58% males), including 10 infants (20%), received modified subcoronary Ross/Ross–Konno operation at our institution. Survival, morbidity, reinterventions, aortic valve function and aortic root dimensions were analysed.

RESULTS
At a median follow-up of 31.2 months (range 14.4–51 months), there were 1 early death and 1 late death, both in the infant group. The overall survival at 5 years after the operation was 95%. Two patients needed aortic valve replacement, 11 and 15 months after their Ross operation. At 5 years, freedoms from reoperation on the autograft and on the right ventricle to pulmonary artery conduit were 94% and 97%, respectively. Freedom from aortic valve regurgitation greater than mild was 97% at 5 years. Median dimensions of the aortic root at all levels remained in normal range at last visit. Forty-four patients (95%) were in New York Heart Association class I with normal left ventricular function.

CONCLUSIONS
The initial experience with the subcoronary Ross/Ross–Konno operation in children and young adults showed excellent outcome. The mortality and morbidity among infants remain significant. The described technique is reproducible and might be advantageous in situations when prosthetic supporting techniques interfere with somatic growth.
What’s Behind the WTO Crisis? A Marxist Analysis
Authors: Bachand Rémi 
Published: August 2020

Abstract
The main objective of this article is to explore the background of the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) crisis using Marxist, neo-Marxist or, at least, Marxist-influenced theories of political economy and international relations. Its purpose is twofold. First, to propose an interpretation of the actual WTO crisis that will address alternative interpretations’ gaps. Second, to advance theoretical inputs founded on Marxist or Marxist-influenced writing in political economy, inputs which could be useful elsewhere in critical studies in international law. At the root of the crisis lies the functioning of neoliberalism (understood as the regime of accumulation promoted by US-dominant classes) and the institutions it uses to regulate itself, to deal with contradictions that hurt its capacity to produce profit, and to allow capital accumulation. One of the most important of these institutions, at the international level, is the WTO. We argue that neoliberalism’s incapacity to continuously provide, since the Asian crisis in 1997, a satisfying rate of profit to US capitalists (and to Western capitalists in general, even if our argument focuses on the former) lured it into a crisis. Since the WTO’s main function is to prevent neoliberalism from being hurt by contradictions that would limit its capacity to provide profits allowing capital accumulation, it was inevitable that one day or another, the struggle faced by the latter would also drag the former down in an institutional crisis.
The relationship between malocclusion and oral health-related quality of life among adolescents: a systematic literature review and meta-analysis
Authors: Alrashed Muath , Alqerban Ali 
Published: August 2020

Summary

Background
Malocclusion is a deviation from an anatomical norm that occurs in various populations. Evidence shows that it has physical and psychological implications as well as an influence on the patient’s oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL). Self-perception of oral health plays an important role in the understanding of malocclusion’s influence on the quality of life. Malocclusion has been reported to impair a patient’s function, appearance, interpersonal relationships and psychological well-being.

Objectives
The aim of this study was to investigate whether adolescents aged between 11 and 18 years with malocclusion are at increased risk for having a high level of OHRQoL compared with those without malocclusion.

Search methods
The Ovid Medline, Embase and Scopus databases were used to identify studies measuring the association between malocclusion and HRQoL.

Selection criteria
Only cross-sectional studies were included, and the following inclusion criteria were used: subjects were systemically healthy; data were available for untreated malocclusion and OHRQoL; malocclusion was measured by Dental Aesthetic Index and Index of Orthodontic Treatment Needs; OHRQoL was assessed by Child Perception Questionnaire, Child Oral Health Impact Profile and Child Oral Health Impact Profile; and the paper was published in English.

Data collection and analysis
Data were extracted by two independent reviewers. The Appraisal tool for Cross-Sectional Studies (AXIS) was used to establish the risk of bias, and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) evidence quality assessment tool was used to assess the impact of malocclusion on adolescents across studies.

Results
The initial search yielded 530 papers. Eleven cross-sectional studies were included in the meta-analyses, and all data describing the relationship between malocclusion and OHRQoL were gathered via a structured questionnaire. Our results showed that malocclusion is linked to decreased OHRQoL in children and adolescents aged between 11 and 18 years in continuously analysed studies. However, in dichotomously analysed studies, it was shown that young people without malocclusion are linked to decreased OHRQoL.

Conclusions
Adolescents with severe levels of malocclusion might have among the worst levels of OHRQoL. The effects of malocclusion on OHRQoL were influenced by the age of the adolescents as well as by their culture and environment.

Registration
PROSPERO (CRD42020178657).
Atrial fibrillation detection by the subcutaneous defibrillator: real-world clinical performances and implications from a multicentre study
Authors: Ollitrault Pierre , Jacon Peggy , Auquier Nathanaël , Champ-Rigot Laure , Ben Kilani Mouna , Vandevelde Florence , Pellissier Arnaud , Ferchaud Virginie , Legallois Damien , Defaye Pascal , Anselme Frédéric , Milliez Paul 
Published: August 2020

AbstractAimsNo data exist concerning the clinical performances of the subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (S-ICD) atrial fibrillation (AF) detection algorithm. We aimed to study the performances and implications of the latter in a ‘real-world’ setting.Methods and resultsBetween July 2017 and August 2019, 155 consecutive S-ICD recipients were included. Endpoint of the study was the incidence of de novo or recurrent AF using a combined on-site and remote-monitoring follow-up approach. After a mean follow-up of 13 ± 8 months, 2531 AF alerts were generated for 55 patients. A blinded analysis of the 1950 subcutaneous electrocardiograms available was performed. Among them 47% were true AF, 23% were premature atrial contractions or non-sustained AF, 29% were premature ventricular contractions or non-sustained ventricular tachycardia, and 1% were misdetection. Fourteen percent (21/155) patients had at least one correct diagnosis of AF by the S-ICD algorithm. One patient presented symptomatic paroxysmal AF not diagnosed by the S-ICD algorithm (false negative patient). Patient-based sensitivity, specificity, positive, and negative predictive values were respectively 95%, 74%, 38%, and 99%. Among patients with at least one correct diagnosis of AF, 38% (8/21) had subsequent clinical implications (anticoagulation initiation or rhythm control therapies).ConclusionThe S-ICD AF detection algorithm yields a high sensitivity for AF diagnosis. Low specificity and positive predictive value contribute to a high remote monitoring-notification workload and underline the necessity of a manual analysis. Atrial fibrillation diagnosis by the S-ICD AF detection algorithm might lead to significant therapeutic adjustments.
Overview of laws and regulations aimed at protecting the hearing of patrons within entertainment venues
Authors: Beach Elizabeth Francis , Mulder Johannes , O’Brien Ian , Cowan Robert 
Published: August 2020

Abstract

Background
Recreational noise—specifically loud music experienced at music venues—has been recognized as a hazard for hearing damage and associated pathologies such as tinnitus. In Europe and other countries around the world, there is a range of regulatory and legislative approaches to managing the sound levels and minimizing the risk of hearing damage for those attending music venues. It is important to have an understanding of these different approaches to inform the development of future regulations and legislation.

Methods
In December 2018, an online search of legislative instruments was conducted, and we identified 18 items that were aimed at protecting the hearing of people attending entertainment venues.

Results
Twelve documents were from European jurisdictions and the remainder were from cities or states of North and South America. The regulatory measures included in the documents ranged from sound level limitations, real-time sound exposure monitoring, mandatory supply of protective devices, requirements for signage and warnings, loudspeaker placement restrictions and the provision of ‘quiet spaces’.

Conclusions
European countries are well advanced in terms of providing legislation and other regulatory documents aimed at protecting people at entertainment venues when compared with the rest of the world. Future research is required to assess the effectiveness of these regulatory measures in reducing the risk associated with sound exposure at music venues.