bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Interstitial Axon Collaterals of Callosal Neurons Form Association Projections from the Primary Somatosensory to Motor Cortex in Mice
Authors: Oka Yuichiro , Doi Miyuki , Taniguchi Manabu , Tiong Sheena Y X , Akiyama Hisanori , Yamamoto Takuto , Iguchi Tokuichi , Sato Makoto 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Association projections from cortical pyramidal neurons connect disparate intrahemispheric cortical areas, which are implicated in higher cortical functions. The underlying developmental processes of these association projections, especially the initial phase before reaching the target areas, remain unknown. To visualize developing axons of individual neurons with association projections in the mouse neocortex, we devised a sparse labeling method that combined in utero electroporation and confocal imaging of flattened and optically cleared cortices. Using the promoter of an established callosal neuron marker gene that was expressed in over 80% of L2/3 neurons in the primary somatosensory cortex (S1) that project to the primary motor cortex (M1), we found that an association projection of a single neuron was the longest among the interstitial collaterals that branched out in L5 from the earlier-extended callosal projection. Collaterals to M1 elongated primarily within the cortical gray matter with little branching before reaching the target. Our results suggest that dual-projection neurons in S1 make a significant fraction of the association projections to M1, supporting the directed guidance mechanism in long-range corticocortical circuit formation over random projections followed by specific pruning.
Retreatment of Chronic Hepatitis C Infection: Real-World Regimens and Outcomes From National Treatment Programs in Three Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Boeke Caroline E , Hiebert Lindsey , Waked Imam , Tsertsvadze Tengiz , Sharvadze Lali , Butsashvili Maia , Zakalashvili Mamuka , Naing Win , Gupta Neil , Kateera Fredrick , McClure Craig , Ward John W , Ramers Christian B 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Access to recommended second-line treatments is limited for patients who fail initial hepatitis C virus (HCV) therapy in low- and middle-income countries. Alternative regimens and associated outcomes are not well understood. Through a pooled analysis of national program data in Egypt, Georgia, and Myanmar, we observed SVR rates &gt;90% for alternative retreatment regimens.
Association of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection and Underlying Risk Factors for Death Among Young Infants Who Died at University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka Zambia
Authors: Forman Leah S , Macleod William , Mwananyanda Lawrence , Kwenda Geoffrey , Pieciak Rachel , Mupila Zachariah , Murphy Caitriona , Thea Donald , Chikoti Chilufya , Yankonde Baron , Ngoma Benard , Chimoga Charles , Gill Christopher J 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Background
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of acute lower respiratory tract infections and child mortality. While RSV disease burden is highest in low- and middle-income countries, most knowledge about risk factors for fatal RSV disease comes from high-income settings.

Methods
Among infants aged 4 days to &lt;6 months who died at University Teaching Hospital in Lusaka, Zambia, we tested nasopharyngeal swabs obtained postmortem for RSV using reverse transcriptase–quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Through a systematic review of death certificates and hospital records, we identified 10 broad categories of underlying medical conditions associated with infant deaths. We used backward-selection models to calculate adjusted and unadjusted risk ratios (RRs) for the association between each underlying condition and RSV status.

Results
From 720 infant deaths, 6% (44) were RSV-positive, 70% were &lt;4 weeks old, and 54% were male. At least 1 underlying condition was found in 85% of infants, while 63% had ≥2. Prematurity/low birth weight (53% [384]) and complications of labor and delivery (32% [230]) were the most common conditions. Congenital cardiac conditions were significantly associated with an increased risk of RSV infection (4%, 32; adjusted RR: 3.57; 95% CI: 1.71–7.44). No other underlying conditions were significantly associated with RSV.

Conclusions
Other than congenital cardiac conditions, we found a lack of association between RSV and underlying risk factors. This differs from high-income settings, where RSV mortality is concentrated among high-risk infants. In this population, birth-related outcomes are the highest mortality risk factors. Improved neonatal care remains crucial in the fight against neonatal mortality.
Indication for Antibiotic Prescription Among Children Attending Primary Healthcare Services in Rural Burkina Faso
Authors: Sié Ali , Ouattara Mamadou , Bountogo Mamadou , Dah Clarisse , Compaoré Guillaume , Boudo Valentin , Lebas Elodie , Brogdon Jessica , Nyatigo Fanice , Arnold Benjamin F , Lietman Thomas M , Oldenburg Catherine E 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Of 61 355 visits by children &lt;5 years old to 48 government-run primary healthcare facilities in Nouna District, Burkina Faso, 30 975 had an antibiotic prescribed (58% for pneumonia diagnoses). A minority of prescriptions were for diagnoses not requiring antibiotics, including malaria, nonbloody diarrhea, and cough without pneumonia.
Integrating electronic health data records to develop and validate a predictive model of hospital-acquired acute kidney injury in non-critically ill patients
Authors: Segarra Alfons , Del Carpio Jacqueline , Marco Maria Paz , Jatem Elias , Gonzalez Jorge , Chang Pamela , Ramos Natalia , de la Torre Judith , Prat Joana , Torres Maria J , Montoro Bruno , Ibarz Mercedes , Pico Silvia , Falcon Gloria , Canales Marina , Huertas Elisard , Romero Iñaki , Nieto Nacho 
Published: May 2021

ABSTRACT

Background
Models developed to predict hospital-acquired acute kidney injury (HA-AKI) in non-critically ill patients have a low sensitivity, do not include dynamic changes of risk factors and do not allow the establishment of a time relationship between exposure to risk factors and AKI. We developed and externally validated a predictive model of HA-AKI integrating electronic health databases and recording the exposure to risk factors prior to the detection of AKI.

Methods
The study set was 36 852 non-critically ill hospitalized patients admitted from January to December 2017. Using stepwise logistic analyses, including demography, chronic comorbidities and exposure to risk factors prior to AKI detection, we developed a multivariate model to predict HA-AKI. This model was then externally validated in 21 545 non-critical patients admitted to the validation centre in the period from June 2017 to December 2018.

Results
The incidence of AKI in the study set was 3.9%. Among chronic comorbidities, the highest odds ratios (ORs) were conferred by chronic kidney disease, urologic disease and liver disease. Among acute complications, the highest ORs were associated with acute respiratory failure, anaemia, systemic inflammatory response syndrome, circulatory shock and major surgery. The model showed an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.907 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.902–0.908), a sensitivity of 82.7 (95% CI 80.7–84.6) and a specificity of 84.2 (95% CI 83.9–84.6) to predict HA-AKI, with an adequate goodness-of-fit for all risk categories (χ2 = 6.02, P = 0.64). In the validation set, the prevalence of AKI was 3.2%. The model showed an AUC of 0.905 (95% CI 0.904–0.910), a sensitivity of 81.2 (95% CI 79.2–83.1) and a specificity of 82.5 (95% CI 82.2–83) to predict HA-AKI and had an adequate goodness-of-fit for all risk categories (χ2 = 4.2, P = 0.83). An online tool (predaki.amalfianalytics.com) is available to calculate the risk of AKI in other hospital environments.

Conclusions
By using electronic health data records, our study provides a model that can be used in clinical practice to obtain an accurate dynamic and updated assessment of the individual risk of HA-AKI during the hospital admission period in non-critically ill patients.
Dietary recommendations for prevention of atherosclerosis
Authors: Riccardi Gabriele , Giosuè Annalisa , Calabrese Ilaria , Vaccaro Olga 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
This review aims at summarizing updated evidence on cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk associated with consumption of specific food items to substantiate dietary strategies for atherosclerosis prevention. A systematic search on PubMed was performed to identify meta-analyses of cohort studies and RCTs with CVD outcomes. The evidence is highly concordant in showing that, for the healthy adult population, low consumption of salt and foods of animal origin, and increased intake of plant-based foods—whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, and nuts—are linked with reduced atherosclerosis risk. The same applies for the replacement of butter and other animal/tropical fats with olive oil and other unsaturated-fat-rich oil. Although the literature reviewed overall endorses scientific society dietary recommendations, some relevant novelties emerge. With regard to meat, new evidence differentiates processed and red meat—both associated with increased CVD risk—from poultry, showing a neutral relationship with CVD for moderate intakes. Moreover, the preferential use of low-fat dairies in the healthy population is not supported by recent data, since both full-fat and low-fat dairies, in moderate amounts and in the context of a balanced diet, are not associated with increased CVD risk; furthermore, small quantities of cheese and regular yogurt consumption are even linked with a protective effect. Among other animal protein sources, moderate fish consumption is also supported by the latest evidence, although there might be sustainability concerns. New data endorse the replacement of most high glycemic index (GI) foods with both whole grain and low GI cereal foods. As for beverages, low consumption not only of alcohol, but also of coffee and tea is associated with a reduced atherosclerosis risk while soft drinks show a direct relationship with CVD risk. This review provides evidence-based support for promoting appropriate food choices for atherosclerosis prevention in the general population.
Effects of Fire on Ground-Dwelling Spider (Araneae) Assemblages in Central Indiana Forests
Authors: Milne Marc A , Gonsiorowski Joseph , Tuft Nathan , Deno Brodrick , Ploss Tyler , Acosta Janise , Frandsen Lucas , Venable Casey 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
Fire is a natural disturbance that occurs in many temperate and tropical ecosystems worldwide. As ubiquitous members of these ecosystems, spiders (Araneae) are often affected by fire, and their response to this disturbance has been shown to be dependent on taxonomy, functional diversity, seasonality, and a variety of environmental factors. We examined the effect of fire on ground-dwelling spider assemblages in temperate forests in central Indiana over 5 yr and found that spider assemblages were significantly affected by fire disturbance. Overall spider abundance decreased, whereas species richness and diversity remained unaffected. We also found that spider response depended heavily on the family and/or guild to which the spider belonged. We suspect that altered habitat heterogeneity, the patchy nature of fire’s effect on leaf litter, and the high rate of recolonization by spiders all played important roles in these observed patterns.
The effect of different bonded retainer wires on tooth mobility immediately after orthodontic treatment
Authors: Kučera Josef , Marek Ivo , Littlewood Simon J 
Published: May 2021

SummaryObjectivesThis study aimed to compare the immediate influence of four commonly used retainer wires on tooth mobility following orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances.Materials and MethodsEighty patients after orthodontic treatment were assigned to four study groups (n = 20 in each group). Groups were provided with directly bonded fixed retainers—0.0150″ (group A), 0.0175″ (group B), 0.016 × 0.022″ (group C), and 0.0215″ (group D). Tooth mobility was measured using the Periotest device at two times—after removal of fixed appliance (T1) and after bonding of the retainer (T2). Values of tooth mobility, ‘Periotest values’, were analysed between groups and compared with the physiologic tooth mobility in a control group of untreated patients (n = 65). Kruskal–Wallis H, Mann–Whitney U, Dunn’s test, Fisher’s exact test, and binary logistic regression tests were used to analyze the data.ResultsTooth mobility after orthodontic treatment was significantly increased. While canines remained within normal range of tooth mobility, values for incisors increased on average to the first degree of tooth mobility (slight mobility). Logistic regression analysis identified age as a significant predictor for increased tooth mobility (P = 0.032) with odds ratio 1.065 (95% CI 1.005–1.128), with mobility increasing with age. After bonding of the retainer in all four groups, the tooth mobility was reduced to values which were not significantly different form normal physiological values found in the control group (P &gt; 0.05). There were no differences in the amount of change or in tooth mobility values at T2 between the different types of bonded retainers.LimitationsAge of subjects in the control group was significantly higher than that in the study groups. An alternation method was used instead of randomization to distribute the four different types of retainers.ConclusionsAll of the retainer wires were able to successfully reduce the increased tooth mobility caused by orthodontic treatment to normal levels. The values of tooth mobility after placement of retainers were within the range of physiologic tooth mobility.
Do Concerns about Immigration Change after Adolescence? How Education and Critical Life Events Affect Concerns about Immigration
Authors: Kratz Fabian 
Published: May 2021

Abstract
This study investigates whether critical life events that typically occur during early adulthood (i.e., labor market entry, unemployment, parenthood) impact concerns about immigration. Two mechanisms suggest that these critical life events lead to a widening of education-specific differences: First, the amplification of ethnic competition following critical life events may be more pronounced for individuals with low educational attainment. Second, psychological adaptation processes of individuals with low levels of education may more frequently result in scapegoating. These mechanisms provide a rationale for the education-as-buffer hypothesis, according to which individuals with lower educational attainment are more prone to exhibit increasing concerns about immigration following critical life events. Estimations of distributed fixed effects models relying on data from the German Socio-Economic Panel Study (1999–2017) show that labor market entry, unemployment, and parenthood increase concerns about immigration more strongly for individuals with low educational attainment. Replicating significant impact differences between educational groups for the three critical life events makes a strong case for the education-as-buffer hypothesis. Overall, this study demonstrates that concerns about immigration are responsive to critical life events and calls for further theorizing as to how educational attainment may shape attitudes towards immigration over the life course.
Validation and comparison of 28 risk prediction models for coronary artery disease
Authors: Lenselink Chris , Ties Daan , Pleijhuis Rick , van der Harst Pim 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Aims
Risk prediction models (RPMs) for coronary artery disease (CAD), using variables to calculate CAD risk, are potentially valuable tools in prevention strategies. However, their use in the clinical practice is limited by a lack of poor model description, external validation, and head-to-head comparisons.

Methods and results
CAD RPMs were identified through Tufts PACE CPM Registry and a systematic PubMed search. Every RPM was externally validated in the three cohorts (the UK Biobank, LifeLines, and PREVEND studies) for the primary endpoint myocardial infarction (MI) and secondary endpoint CAD, consisting of MI, percutaneous coronary intervention, and coronary artery bypass grafting. Model discrimination (C-index), calibration (intercept and regression slope), and accuracy (Brier score) were assessed and compared head-to-head between RPMs. Linear regression analysis was performed to evaluate predictive factors to estimate calibration ability of an RPM. Eleven articles containing 28 CAD RPMs were included. No single best-performing RPM could be identified across all cohorts and outcomes. Most RPMs yielded fair discrimination ability: mean C-index of RPMs was 0.706 ± 0.049, 0.778 ± 0.097, and 0.729 ± 0.074 (P &lt; 0.01) for prediction of MI in UK Biobank, LifeLines, and PREVEND, respectively. Endpoint incidence in the original development cohorts was identified as a significant predictor for external validation performance.

Conclusion
Performance of CAD RPMs was comparable upon validation in three large cohorts, based on which no specific RPM can be recommended for predicting CAD risk.
Implications of atrial fibrillation on the clinical course and outcomes of hospitalized COVID-19 patients: results of the Cardio-COVID-Italy multicentre study
Authors: Paris Sara , Inciardi Riccardo M , Lombardi Carlo Mario , Tomasoni Daniela , Ameri Pietro , Carubelli Valentina , Agostoni Piergiuseppe , Canale Claudia , Carugo Stefano , Danzi Giambattista , Di Pasquale Mattia , Sarullo Filippo , La Rovere Maria Teresa , Mortara Andrea , Piepoli Massimo , Porto Italo , Sinagra Gianfranco , Volterrani Maurizio , Gnecchi Massimiliano , Leonardi Sergio , Merlo Marco , Iorio Annamaria , Giovinazzo Stefano , Bellasi Antonio , Zaccone Gregorio , Camporotondo Rita , Catagnano Francesco , Dalla Vecchia Laura , Maccagni Gloria , Mapelli Massimo , Margonato Davide , Monzo Luca , Nuzzi Vincenzo , Pozzi Andrea , Provenzale Giovanni , Specchia Claudia , Tedino Chiara , Guazzi Marco , Senni Michele , Metra Marco 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Aims
To assess the clinical relevance of a history of atrial fibrillation (AF) in hospitalized patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Methods and results
We enrolled 696 consecutive patients (mean age 67.4 ± 13.2 years, 69.7% males) admitted for COVID-19 in 13 Italian cardiology centres between 1 March and 9 April 2020. One hundred and six patients (15%) had a history of AF and the median hospitalization length was 14 days (interquartile range 9–24). Patients with a history of AF were older and with a higher burden of cardiovascular risk factors. Compared to patients without AF, they showed a higher rate of in-hospital death (38.7% vs. 20.8%; P &lt; 0.001). History of AF was associated with an increased risk of death after adjustment for clinical confounders related to COVID-19 severity and cardiovascular comorbidities, including history of heart failure (HF) and increased plasma troponin [adjusted hazard ratio (HR): 1.73; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.06–2.84; P = 0.029]. Patients with a history of AF also had more in-hospital clinical events including new-onset AF (36.8% vs. 7.9%; P &lt; 0.001), acute HF (25.3% vs. 6.3%; P &lt; 0.001), and multiorgan failure (13.9% vs. 5.8%; P = 0.010). The association between AF and worse outcome was not modified by previous or concomitant use of anticoagulants or steroid therapy (P for interaction &gt;0.05 for both) and was not related to stroke or bleeding events.

Conclusion
Among hospitalized patients with COVID-19, a history of AF contributes to worse clinical course with a higher mortality and in-hospital events including new-onset AF, acute HF, and multiorgan failure. The mortality risk remains significant after adjustment for variables associated with COVID-19 severity and comorbidities.
COVID-19 and the flu: data simulations and computational modelling to guide public health strategies
Authors: Tunaligil Verda , Meral Gulsen , Dabak Mustafa Resat , Canbulat Mehmet , Demir Sıddıka Semahat 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Background
Pandemics threaten lives and economies. This article addresses the global threat of the anticipated overlap of COVID-19 with seasonal-influenza.

Objectives
Scientific evidence based on simulation methodology is presented to reveal the impact of a dual outbreak, with scenarios intended for propagation analysis. This article aims at researchers, clinicians of family medicine, general practice and policy-makers worldwide. The implications for the clinical practice of primary health care are discussed. Current research is an effort to explore new directions in epidemiology and health services delivery.

Methods
Projections consisted of machine learning, dynamic modelling algorithms and whole simulations. Input data consisted of global indicators of infectious diseases. Four simulations were run for ‘20% versus 60% flu-vaccinated populations’ and ‘10 versus 20 personal contacts’. Outputs consisted of numerical values and mathematical graphs. Outputs consisted of numbers for ‘never infected’, ‘vaccinated’, ‘infected/recovered’, ‘symptomatic/asymptomatic’ and ‘deceased’ individuals. Peaks, percentages, R0, durations are reported.

Results
The best-case scenario was one with a higher flu-vaccination rate and fewer contacts. The reverse generated the worst outcomes, likely to disrupt the provision of vital community services. Both measures were proven effective; however, results demonstrated that ‘increasing flu-vaccination rates’ is a more powerful strategy than ‘limiting social contacts’.

Conclusions
Results support two affordable preventive measures: (i) to globally increase influenza-vaccination rates, (ii) to limit the number of personal contacts during outbreaks. The authors endorse changing practices and research incentives towards multidisciplinary collaborations. The urgency of the situation is a call for international health policy to promote interdisciplinary modern technologies in public health engineering.
Site- and Taxa-Specific Disease-Associated Oral Microbial Structures Distinguish Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
Authors: Somineni Hari K , Weitzner Jordan H , Venkateswaran Suresh , Dodd Anne , Prince Jarod , Karikaran Arjuna , Sauer Cary G , Abramowicz Shelly , Zwick Michael E , Cutler David J , Okou David T , Chopra Pankaj , Kugathasan Subra 
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Background
The gut and oral microbiome have independently been shown to be associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, it is not known to what extent gut and oral microbial disease markers converge in terms of their composition in IBD. Further, the spatial and temporal variation within the oral microenvironments of IBD remain to be elucidated.

Patients and Methods
We used a prospectively recruited cohort of patients with IBD (n = 47) and unrelated healthy control patients (n = 18) to examine the spatial and temporal distribution of microbiota within the various oral microenvironments, represented by saliva, tongue, buccal mucosa, and plaque, and compared them with stool. Microbiome characterization was performed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing.

Results
The oral microbiome displayed IBD-associated dysbiosis, in a site- and taxa-specific manner. Plaque samples depicted a relatively severe degree of dysbiosis, and the disease-associated dysbiotic bacterial groups were predominantly the members of the phylum Firmicutes. Our 16S rRNA gene analyses show that oral microbiota can distinguish patients with IBD from healthy control patients, with salivary microbiota performing the best, closely matched by stool and other oral sites. Longitudinal profiles of microbial composition suggest that some taxa are more consistently perturbed than others, preferentially in a site-dependent fashion.

Conclusions
Collectively, these data indicate the potential of using oral microbial profiles in screening and monitoring patients with IBD. Furthermore, these results support the importance of spatial and longitudinal microbiome sampling to interpret disease-associated dysbiotic states and eventually to gain insights into disease pathogenesis.