bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Prenatal Exposure to Mixtures of Persistent Endocrine-disrupting Chemicals and Birth Size in a Population-based Cohort of British Girls
Authors: Marks Kristin J. , Howards Penelope P. , Smarr Melissa M. , Flanders W. Dana , Northstone Kate , Daniel Johnni H. , Sjödin Andreas , Calafat Antonia M. , Hartman Terryl J. 
Published: March 2021

Background:
Previous studies of endocrine-disrupting chemicals have examined one of these chemicals at a time in association with an outcome; studying mixtures better approximates human experience. We investigated the association of prenatal exposure to mixtures of persistent endocrine disruptors (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances [PFAS], polychlorinated biphenyls [PCBs], and organochlorine pesticides) with birth size among female offspring in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC), based in the United Kingdom in 1991–1992.

Methods:
We quantified concentrations of 52 endocrine-disrupting chemicals in maternal serum collected during pregnancy at median 15-week gestation. Birth weight, crown-to-heel length, and head circumference were measured at birth; ponderal index and small for gestational age were calculated from these. We used repeated holdout Weighted Quantile Sum (WQS) regression and Bayesian kernel machine regression to examine mixtures in 313 mothers.

Results:
Using WQS regression, all mixtures (each chemical class separately and all three together) were inversely associated with birth weight. A one-unit increase in WQS index (a one-decile increase in chemical concentrations) for all three classes combined was associated with 55 g (β = −55 g, 95% confidence interval [CI] = −89, −22 g) lower birth weight. Associations were weaker but still inverse using Bayesian kernel machine regression. Under both methods, PFAS were the most important contributors to the association with birth weight. We also observed inverse associations for crown-to-heel length.

Conclusions:
These results are consistent with the hypothesis that prenatal exposure to mixtures of persistent endocrine-disrupting chemicals affects birth size.
Results from the MemoryGel Post-approval Study
Authors: Short Kimberly K. , Wixtrom Roger N. , Estes Megan M. , Leopold John , Canady John W. 
Published: March 2021

Background:
The approval of Mentor MemoryGel Breast Implants in November 2006 was conditional on conducting a 10-year study designed to collect long-term experience in US women with MemoryGel Breast Implants, known as the MemoryGel Post-Approval Study.

Methods:
This prospective, observational 10-year follow-up study used a current cohort design that began in 2007, which included both MemoryGel Breast Implant participants and concurrent saline controls to assess rheumatologic and neurologic signs and symptoms. The protocol was amended in 2015, which limited the scope of further data collection for the study to only secondary procedure/re-operation data for MemoryGel participants.

Results:
Primary augmentation (n = 6743), revision augmentation (n = 2071), primary reconstruction (n = 1763), and revision reconstruction (n = 557) participants were enrolled in the Re-operation Phase Safety Set. Kaplan-Meier–estimated 10-year cumulative incidence of re-operation and explantation on a participant-level were 10.5% and 4.2% (primary augmentation), 14.1% and 7.7% (revision augmentation), 20.8% and 12.8% (primary reconstruction), and 25.0% and 16.6% (revision reconstruction).

Conclusions:
The Re-operation Phase of the post-approval study addressed the Kaplan-Meier implant removal and re-operation rates over time, and provided the reasons for re-operation over time. Overall, no significant new hazards, increased risk, or unexpected adverse events were identified in the MemoryGel Post-Approval Study Re-operation Phase Safety Set.
ICG Lymphography in a 4-week Postmortem Cadaver: Implications for a Supermicrosurgery Training Model
Authors: Zolper Elizabeth G. , Bekeny Jenna C. , Fan Kenneth L. , Tzou Chieh-Han John , Song David H. 
Published: March 2021

Summary:
Surgical models are invaluable resources for training and for research and innovation. In the field of supermicrosurgery (SM), options for surgical models remain limited and imperfect. We report the use of a fresh, previously frozen 4-week postmortem cadaveric specimen for successful distal to proximal indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography of the upper extremity. Our technique was confirmed with handheld SPY fluorescence imaging, which visualized a clearly defined, linear lymphatic system. By outlining a straightforward, reproducible method of lymphatic mapping in cadaveric specimens, our group aims to expand the frontiers of surgical models for SM.
Genetics of dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Chen Suet Nee , Mestroni Luisa , Taylor Matthew R.G. 
Published: March 2021

Purpose of review
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), which include genetic and nongenetic forms, is the most common form of cardiomyopathy. DCM is characterized by left ventricular or biventricular dilation with impaired contraction. In the United States, DCM is a burden to healthcare that accounts for approximately 10,000 deaths and 46,000 hospitalizations annually. In this review, we will focus on the genetic forms of DCM and on recent advances in the understanding of cytoskeletal, sarcomeric, desmosomal, nuclear membrane, and RNA binding genes that contribute to the complexity and genetic heterogeneity of DCM.

Recent findings
Although mutations in TTN remain the most common identifiable cause of genetic DCM, there is a growing appreciation for arrhythmogenic-prone DCM due to mutations in LMNA, desmosomal genes, and the recently described FLNC gene encoding the structural filamin C protein. Mutations in RBM20 highlight the relevance of RNA splicing regulation in the pathogenesis of DCM. Although expanded genetic testing has improved access to genetic diagnostic studies for many patients, the molecular mechanisms in the pathogenesis of the disease remained largely unknown.

Summary
: The identification of the molecular causes and subsequent insight into the molecular mechanisms of DCM is expanding our understanding of DCM pathogenesis and highlights the complexity of DCM and the need to develop multifaceted strategies to treat the various causes of DCM.
Disparities in acute decompensated heart failure
Authors: Miller Tamari , Carter Spencer V. , Smith Bryan A. 
Published: March 2021

Purpose of review
The aim of this review is to discuss racial and sex disparities in the management and outcomes of patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF).

Recent findings
Race and sex have a significant impact on in-hospital admissions and overall outcomes in patients with decompensated heart failure and cardiogenic shock. Black patients not only have a higher incidence of heart failure than other racial groups, but also higher admissions for ADHF and worse overall survival, while women receive less interventions for cardiogenic shock complicating acute myocardial infarction. Moreover, White patients are more likely than Black patients to be cared for by a cardiologist than a noncardiologist in the ICU, which has been linked to overall improved survival. In addition, recent data outline inherent racial and sex bias in the evaluation process for advanced heart failure therapies indicating that Black race negatively impacts referral for transplant, women are judged more harshly on their appearance, and that Black women are perceived to have less social support than others. This implicit bias in the evaluation process may impact appropriate timing of referral for advanced heart failure therapies.

Summary
Though significant racial and sex disparities exist in the management and treatment of patients with decompensated heart failure, these disparities are minimized when therapies are properly utilized and patients are treated according to guidelines.
Drug-related adverse effects of antivascular endothelial growth factor agents
Authors: Iyer Prashanth G. , Albini Thomas A. 
Published: March 2021

Purpose of review
Antivascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents have provided historic therapeutic breakthroughs in the treatment of retinal disease. New anti-VEGF agents are emerging for the treatment of retinal vascular diseases. Both systemic and ocular adverse effect need to be understood in managing patients. This review aims to highlight the adverse effects seen with routine use of bevacizumab, ranibizumab and aflibercept, as well as with new medications such as brolucizumab and abicipar.

Recent findings
We review the recent findings of intraocular inflammation (IOI) of brolucizumab and abicipar in the context of the efficacy and safety reported with the routine anti-VEGF agents. Specifically, brolucizumab has been reported to cause occlusive retinal vasculitis in the setting of IOI, which has not been seen in other anti-VEGF medications. In addition, abicipar appears to cause IOI at a higher rate of patients than other anti-VEGF agents have previously.

Summary
Newer anti-VEGF agents pose a significant risk of adverse events not seen with routine anti-VEGF agents.
Accuracy of IOL power calculation formulas in Marfan lens subluxation patients with in-the-bag IOLs and implantation of scleral-sutured single-eyelet modified capsular tension rings
Authors: Zhang Min , Chen Tianhui , Deng Michael , Chen Zexu , Jiang Yongxiang 
Published: March 2021

Purpose:
To investigate the accuracy of intraocular lens (IOL) formulas for the prediction of postoperative refraction in lens subluxation in Marfan syndrome.

Setting:
Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China.

Design:
Consecutive retrospective clinical observational case series.

Methods:
60 eligible eyes with lens subluxation from 39 young patients with Marfan syndrome (8.53 ± 4.38 years) underwent phacoemulsification combined with single-eyelet modified capsular tension ring (MCTR) and IOL implantation. The prediction error values with mean zero out (relative prediction error) and their absolute values (AE) were calculated.

Results:
Generally, the SRK/T formula with Wang-Koch (WK) adjustment had the lowest median AE at 0.418 diopters (D), and the Holladay 1 with WK adjustment had the lowest mean AE at 0.499 D. The median AE of the other 10 formulas, in order from lowest to highest, were Haigis with WK (0.494 D), Holladay 1 with WK (0.495 D), Hoffer Q with WK (0.508 D), Haigis (0.525 D), T2 (0.542 D), Hoffer Q (0.624 D), SRK/T and Holladay 1 (0.660 D), Super (0.680 D), and Barrett Universal II (0.714 D) formulas. Haigis formula was found to be statistically significantly different from SRK/T, Holladay 1, and Barrett Universal II (all 3 P < .001) but not Hoffer Q (P = .236) formula.

Conclusions:
The Haigis formula was recommended for young Marfan lens subluxation patients with in-the-bag IOLs and scleral-sutured single-eyelet MCTR implantation. WK adjustments were successful in those cases where the axial length was longer than 25.0 mm.
Dry eye and inflammation of the ocular surface after cataract surgery: effectiveness of a tear film substitute based on trehalose/hyaluronic acid vs hyaluronic acid to resolve signs and symptoms
Authors: Cagini Carlo , Di Lascio Giampiero , Torroni Giovanni , Mariniello Marco , Meschini Giulia , Lupidi Marco , Messina Marco 
Published: March 2021

Purpose:
To compare the effect of trehalose 3%/hyaluronic acid 0.15% vs hyaluronic acid 0.15% eyedrops in reducing ocular surface inflammation after cataract surgery.

Setting:
Perugia, Italy.

Design:
Randomized, prospective study.

Methods:
Patients with healthy ocular surface were enrolled. Tear break-up time (TBUT), Schirmer test, corneal fluorescein staining (CFS), ocular surface disease index (OSDI) and in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) were performed preoperatively and at 1 months, 4 months, and 8 months postoperatively. Patients were randomly assigned to receive trehalose 3%/hyaluronic acid 0.15% eyedrops (Group A), hyaluronic acid 0.15% eyedrops (Group B), or no treatment (Group C).

Results:
98 patients were randomized as follows: 33 in Group A, 33 in Group B, and 32 in Group C. Schirmer test increased at 1-month follow-up in Group A and unchanged in Groups B and C. TBUT and CFS increased at 1-month follow-up in Group A and after 8 months in Groups B and C. OSDI score decreased at 1-month follow-up in Group A and at in Groups B and C. IVCM showed a reduction in the number of nerve fibers of the subbasal nerve plexus at 1 month in all groups and progressively increased to preoperative levels at 4 months in Group A, and at 8 months in Groups B and C. Tortuosity and reflectivity of subbasal plexus progressively decreased to became significant at 4-month follow-up in Group A whereas increased at 1-month follow-up and become normal at 8-month follow-up in Groups B and C. Langerhans cells and activated stromal keratocytes were higher in Groups B and C throughout the follow-up with a significantly lower density of hyperreflective stromal cells in Group A.

Conclusions:
Trehalose 3%/hyaluronic acid 0.15% eyedrops were effective in reducing inflammation and dry-eye symptoms.
Spinoparabrachial projection neurons form distinct classes in the mouse dorsal horn
Authors: Browne Tyler J. , Smith Kelly M. , Gradwell Mark A. , Iredale Jacqueline A. , Dayas Christopher V. , Callister Robert J. , Hughes David I. , Graham Brett A. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Projection neurons in the spinal dorsal horn relay sensory information to higher brain centres. The activation of these populations is shaped by afferent input from the periphery, descending input from the brain, and input from local interneuron circuits. Much of our recent understanding of dorsal horn circuitry comes from studies in transgenic mice; however, information on projection neurons is still based largely on studies in monkey, cat, and rat. We used viral labelling to identify and record from mouse parabrachial nucleus (PBN) projecting neurons located in the dorsal horn of spinal cord slices. Overall, mouse lamina I spinoparabrachial projection neurons (SPBNs) exhibit many electrophysiological and morphological features that overlap with rat. Unbiased cluster analysis distinguished 4 distinct subpopulations of lamina I SPBNs, based on their electrophysiological properties that may underlie different sensory signalling features in each group. We also provide novel information on SPBNs in the deeper lamina (III-V), which have not been previously studied by patch clamp analysis. These neurons exhibited higher action potential discharge frequencies and received weaker excitatory synaptic input than lamina I SPBNs, suggesting this deeper population produces different sensory codes destined for the PBN. Mouse SPBNs from both regions (laminae I and III-V) were often seen to give off local axon collaterals, and we provide neuroanatomical evidence they contribute to excitatory input to dorsal horn circuits. These data provide novel information to implicate excitatory input from parabrachial projection neuron in dorsal horn circuit activity during processing of nociceptive information, as well as defining deep dorsal horn projection neurons that provide an alternative route by which sensory information can reach the PBN.
Action of mefloquine/amitriptyline THN101 combination on neuropathic mechanical hypersensitivity in mice
Authors: Letellier Baptiste , Kremer Mélanie , Becker Léa J. , Andry Virginie , Goumon Yannick , Leboulleux Quentin , Hener Pierre , Inquimbert Perrine , Couqueberg Nolwenn , Waltisperger Elisabeth , Yalcin Ipek , Mouthon Franck , Droguerre Marine , Charvériat Mathieu , Barrot Michel 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Tricyclic antidepressants that inhibit serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake, such as amitriptyline, are among the first-line treatments for neuropathic pain, which is caused by a lesion or disease affecting the somatosensory nervous system. These treatments are, however, partially efficient to alleviate neuropathic pain symptoms, and better treatments are still highly required. Interactions between neurons and glial cells participate in neuropathic pain processes, and importantly, connexins—transmembrane proteins involved in cell–cell communication—contribute to these interactions. In a neuropathic pain model in rats, mefloquine, a connexin inhibitor, has been shown to potentiate the antihyperalgesic effect of amitriptyline, a widely used antidepressant. In this study, we further investigated this improvement of amitriptyline action by mefloquine, using the cuff model of neuropathic pain in mice. We first observed that oral mefloquine co-treatment prolonged the effect of amitriptyline on mechanical hypersensitivity by 12 hours after administration. In addition, we showed that this potentiation was not due to pharmacokinetic interactions between the 2 drugs. Besides, lesional and pharmacological approaches showed that the prolonged effect was induced through noradrenergic descending pathways and the recruitment of α2 adrenoceptors. Another connexin blocker, carbenoxolone, also improved amitriptyline action. Additional in vitro studies suggested that mefloquine may also directly act on serotonin transporters and on adenosine A1 and A2A receptors, but drugs acting on these other targets failed to amplify amitriptyline action. Together, our data indicate that pharmacological blockade of connexins potentiates the therapeutic effect of amitriptyline in neuropathic pain.
Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Spanish Firefighters
Authors: Vicente Miguel Madruga , Herrero David Cerro , Prieto Josué Prieto 
Published: March 2021

Objective:
To evaluate the cardiorespiratory fitness and other fitness-related measures, and to analyze the differences among age groups.

Methods:
This study was conducted on 104 firefighters. Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2 max) was assessed using the Shuttle Test and fitness was evaluated using appropriate physical tests.

Results:
Mean VO2 max was 45.7 mL/kg/min and 60.6% of firefighters were over the minimum accepted standpoint to do effective work, however, the VO2 max decreased with increasing age. 35.6% of the firefighters were overweight. Age, weight, and total body fat were found to be significant predictors of VO2 max level in this population, with total body fat as strongest predictor.

Conclusions:
Healthy habits-based interventions tailored by age groups should be promoted, to improve cardiorespiratory fitness and body composition for safe work and to improve firefighters’ health.
Can Adults Recognize Concussion Symptoms? A Critical Review of Empirical Research Using the Rosenbaum Concussion Knowledge and Attitudes Survey
Authors: Sullivan Karen A. 
Published: March 2021

Objective:
The correct identification of concussion symptoms is vital for mild traumatic brain injury recognition, diagnosis, and injury management. Numerous surveys of symptom recognition have been conducted, including with athletes at-risk for injury. This critical, methodologically focused review aimed to: (1) discover which concussion symptoms are recognized, and (2) provide recommendations for future research.

Data Sources:
A quasi-systematic literature search was conducted to identify studies that used the Rosenbaum Concussion Knowledge and Attitudes Survey.

Study Selection:
Eighty-five publications were identified, 8 of which were retained after screening.

Data Extraction:
The identification of individual concussion symptoms was coded as good (a correct response by >90% of the sample), moderate (a correct response by 75%–90% of the sample), or poor (a correct response by <75% of the sample).

Data Synthesis:
The pooled data comprised responses from more than 2000 individuals, most of whom were male, young adult, sport players. Overall, there was good recognition of 3 concussion symptoms (headaches, dizziness, and confusion), poor recognition of sleep disturbances, nausea, and loss of consciousness, and misattribution to concussion of 2 distractor symptoms (weakness of neck range of motion, difficulty speaking). The methodological evaluation revealed significant variability in symptom measurement.

Conclusions:
The identified trends for concussion symptom recognition must be regarded as tentative because of the significant methodological variation in the reviewed studies. This variability affected the number, wording, and classification of items, and it restricted the data synthesis. This problem must be addressed in future research and recommendations are provided.
Cannabis for medical purposes: A cross-sectional analysis of health care professionals' knowledge
Authors: Rice Jessica , Hildebrand Andrea , Waslo Carin S. , Cameron Michelle H. , Jones Kim Dupree 
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACT

Background:
Legalization of cannabis use and the evidence base supporting both risks and benefits of cannabinoids are expanding, but our understanding of health care professionals' (HCPs) knowledge about cannabis for medical purposes is limited. Understanding of the knowledge base and knowledge gaps about medical cannabis use is critical to advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) because they are increasingly called on to manage patients taking multiple drugs, including prescribed and unprescribed cannabis and prescription cannabinoids.

Purpose:
The purpose of this study was to examine HCPs' knowledge of clinical cannabis, including laws and regulations; risks and harms; pharmacology; and effects on pain, multiple sclerosis spasticity, and seizures as assessed with written tests before an in-person, continuing medical education program.

Methods:
Total scores and differences among professions and topics were compared.

Results:
A total of 178 of the 226 program attendees completed the test (79%) (107 [47%] physicians, 30 [13%] APRNs, and 18 [8%] registered nurses). The mean test score was 63.2% (SD = 12.7%) without significant differences among professions (F
(3, 174) = 1.53; p = .21) but with significant differences among topics (χ2
(7, 1068) = 201.13; p < .001). The score was lowest for effects on seizures (43.8%) and with scores below 70% for all other areas except laws and regulations (85.7%).

Implications for practice:
There are substantial gaps in HCPs' knowledge about the clinical effects of cannabis, especially about risks and harms, pharmacology, and the effects on pain, multiple sclerosis spasticity, and seizures. Further education may help HCPs to understand the risks and benefits of cannabis and cannabinoids across conditions.
Activation of citizen responders to out-of-hospital cardiac arrest
Authors: Folke Fredrik , Andelius Linn , Gregers Mads Tofte , Hansen Carolina Malta 
Published: March 2021

Purpose of review
To discuss different approaches to citizen responder activation and possible future solutions for improved citizen engagement in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) resuscitation.

Recent findings
Activating volunteer citizens to OHCA has the potential to improve OHCA survival by increasing bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and early defibrillation. Accordingly, citizen responder systems have become widespread in numerous countries despite very limited evidence of their effect on survival or cost-effectiveness. To date, only one randomized trial has investigated the effect of citizen responder activation for which the outcome was bystander CPR. Recent publications are of observational nature with high risk of bias. A scoping review published in 2020 provided an overview of available citizen responder systems and their differences in who, when, and how to activate volunteer citizens. These differences are further discussed in this review.

Summary
Implementation of citizen responder programs holds the potential to improve bystander intervention in OHCA, with advancing technology offering new improvement possibilities. Information on how to best activate citizen responders as well as the effect on survival following OHCA is warranted to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of citizen responder programs.