bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Maintaining the Utility of Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic Severity Surveillance: Evaluation of Trends in Attributable Deaths and Development and Validation of a Measurement Tool
Authors: Trottier Caitlin , La Jennifer , Li Lucy L , Alsoubani Majd , Vo Austin D , Fillmore Nathanael R , Branch-Elliman Westyn , Doron Shira , Monach Paul A 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Background
Death within a specified time window following a positive SARS-CoV-2 test is used by some agencies for attributing death to COVID-19. With Omicron variants, widespread immunity, and asymptomatic screening, there is cause to re-evaluate COVID-19 death attribution methods and develop tools to improve case ascertainment.

Methods
All patients who died following microbiologically confirmed SARS-CoV-2 in the Veterans Health Administration (VA) and at Tufts Medical Center (TMC) were identified. Records of selected vaccinated VA patients with positive tests in 2022, and of all TMC patients with positive tests in 2021–2022, were manually reviewed to classify deaths as COVID-19–related (either directly caused by or contributed to), focused on deaths within 30 days. Logistic regression was used to develop and validate a surveillance model for identifying deaths in which COVID-19 was causal or contributory.

Results
Among vaccinated VA patients who died ≤30 days after a positive test in January–February 2022, death was COVID-19–related in 103/150 cases (69%) (55% causal, 14% contributory). In June–August 2022, death was COVID-19–related in 70/150 cases (47%) (22% causal, 25% contributory). Similar results were seen among the 71 patients who died at TMC. A model including hypoxemia, remdesivir, and anti-inflammatory drugs had positive and negative predictive values of 0.82–0.95 and 0.64–0.83, respectively.

Conclusions
By mid-2022, “death within 30 days” did not provide an accurate estimate of COVID-19–related death in 2 US healthcare systems with routine admission screening. Hypoxemia and use of antiviral and anti-inflammatory drugs—variables feasible for reporting to public health agencies—would improve classification of death as COVID-19–related.
Lack of Benefit for Early Escalation to Advanced Therapies in Ulcerative Colitis: Critical Appraisal of Current Evidence
Authors: Burisch Johan , Safroneeva Ekaterina , Laoun Raphael , Ma Christopher 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Although ulcerative colitis [UC] shares many common pathways and therapeutic options with Crohn’s disease [CD], CD patients are four times more likely to undergo surgery 10 years into their disease in the biological era and are more likely to have extraintestinal manifestations than UC patients. Early treatment in CD has been demonstrated to modify the natural history of the disease and potentially delay surgery. Previous reviews on this topic have borrowed their evidence from CD to make UC-specific recommendations. This review highlights the emergence of UC-specific data from larger cohort studies and a comprehensive individual patient data systemic review and meta-analysis to critically appraise evidence on the utility of early escalation to advanced therapies with respect to short-, medium-, and long-term outcomes. In UC, the utility of the early escalation concept for the purposes of changing the natural history, including reducing colectomy and hospitalizations, is not supported by the available data. Data on targeting clinical, biochemical, endoscopic, and histological outcomes are needed to demonstrate that they are meaningful with regard to achieving reductions in hospitalization and surgery, improving quality of life, and minimizing disability. Analyses of different populations of UC patients, such as those with ‘relapsing & remitting’ disease or with severe or complicated disease course, are urgently needed. The costs and risk/benefit profile of some of the newer advanced therapies should be carefully considered. In this clinical landscape, it appears premature to advocate an indiscriminate ‘one size fits all’ approach to escalating to advanced therapies early during the course of UC.
Open-chest epicardial ablation of ventricular tachycardia during a left ventricular assist device implantation: a case report
Authors: Fukuzawa Koji , Hisamatsu Eriko , Nakai Hidekazu , Okada Kenji 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Background
Ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) are common after a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation. Further, the majority of post-LVAD ventricular tachycardias (VTs) are secondary to a preexisting cardiomyopathy substrate. Intraoperative ablation of patients with recurrent preoperative VTs may reduce post-LVAD VTs.

Case summary
A 59-year-old female with advanced heart failure due to non-ischaemic cardiomyopathy (LV ejection fraction = 24%) and recurrent VTs was referred for an LVAD implantation as a bridge to a heart transplant (INTERMACS Profile-5A). The previous endocardial ablation failed due to an epicardial arrhythmogenic substrate. Therefore, open-chest epicardial mapping during the LVAD implantation was indicated and three target areas of the arrhythmogenic substrate were found, which were ablated by radiofrequency applications. To minimize the cardiopulmonary bypass time, cardiopulmonary bypass was initiated after ablation, and then, an LVAD was implanted. An additional 68 min was required for mapping and ablation. All procedures were performed without any complications, and the post-operative course was uneventful. Thereafter, no VT episodes were observed without any anti-arrhythmic drugs during a 15-month follow-up with LVAD support.

Discussion
Intraoperative epicardial mapping and ablation during an LVAD implantation can play an important role in the management of LVAD recipients with recurrent VAs.
Tracheal cancer: a rare and deadly but potentially curable disease that also affects younger people
Authors: Nilssen Yngvar , Solberg Steinar , Brustugun Odd Terje , Møller Bjørn , Sundset Arve , Wahl Sissel Gyrid Freim , Helland Åslaug 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
The incidence of tracheal cancer is low, few clinicians get much experience and the awareness may be low. Recent data on the treatment and outcome are limited. The aim of the present study was to present updated, national data on the incidence, characteristics, treatment and outcome for patients with tracheal cancer.

METHODS
All tracheal cancers registered at the Cancer Registry of Norway in 2000–2020 were extracted. The patient and tumour characteristics age, sex, stage, histology and treatment modality (surgery and radiotherapy) were examined. Overall, median and relative survival were estimated. Cox regression models were used to identify independent prognostic factors.

RESULTS
The 77 patients diagnosed with tracheal cancer equals a crude incidence rate and an age-standardized incidence rate of 0.075 and 0.046 per 100,000 per year respectively. The mean age was 63.8 years (range: 26–94). The numerical preponderance of men (n = 41) is not statistically significant. Eighteen patients (23.4%) were diagnosed in the localized stage. The 5-year overall survival was 31.7% [95% confidence interval (CI): 21.0–42.9], and in those treated with surgical resection or curative radiotherapy, it was 53.7% (95% CI: 26.1–75.0) and 37.8% (95% CI: 18.8–56.7), respectively. Age, histological type and treatment modality were identified as independent prognostic factors.

CONCLUSIONS
Despite improved survival, the prognosis for patients with tracheal cancer is still poor. Few are diagnosed in the early stage and thus most are not eligible for curative treatment, mainly surgery. An increased awareness and diagnosis in the earlier stage is crucial.
Lower survival of hybrid grosbeaks, but not towhees, suggests a molt divide disfavors hybrids
Authors: Rohwer Vanya G , Hagler Samantha J , Van Doren Benjamin M , Fuentes Miguel , Billerman Shawn M 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Although avian hybrid zones in the Great Plains have been studied for almost 70 years, we know surprisingly little about the fitness costs to hybrids that keep these zones narrow. We compare age ratios in grosbeaks (Pheucticus ludovicianus and P. melanocephalus) and towhees (Pipilo erythropthalums and P. maculatus), two species pairs that differ in their life histories and molt schedules, to evaluate survival between hybrids and parentals. We then contrast molt and migratory divides as possible sources of selection against hybrids. Hybrid grosbeaks had 27%–33% lower survival relative to their parentals, whereas hybrid towhees had survival rates similar to parentals. Age ratio data for hybrid grosbeaks suggest high mortality in older birds, as expected if selection operates after the first year of life. This pattern is consistent with parental species of grosbeaks having contrasting molt schedules relative to migration, suggesting high mortality costs to hybrids driven by molt biology, which are expressed later in life. Contrasts in molt schedules are absent in towhees. While migratory divides may exist for towhees and grosbeaks, the low adult survival of hybrid grosbeaks suggest that molt may be an important and underappreciated source of selection maintaining this and other narrow avian hybrid zones.
Insect homolog of oxytocin/vasopressin associated with parenting of males but not females in a subsocial beetle
Authors: Potticary Ahva L , Cunningham Christopher B , McKinney Elizabeth C , Moore Patricia J , Belay Amsale T , Moore Allen J 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Parental care is thought to evolve through modification of behavioral precursors, which predicts that mechanistic changes occur in the genes underlying those traits. The duplicated gene system of oxytocin/vasopressin has been broadly co-opted across vertebrates to influence parenting, from a preduplication ancestral role in water balance. It remains unclear whether co-option of these genes for parenting is limited to vertebrates. Here, we experimentally tested for associations between inotocin gene expression and water balance, parental acceptance of offspring, and active parenting in the subsocial beetle Nicrophorus orbicollis, to test whether this single-copy homolog of the oxytocin/vasopressin system has similarly been co-opted for parental care in a species with elaborate parenting. As expected, inotocin was associated with water balance in both sexes. Inotocin expression increased around sexual maturation in both males and females, although more clearly in males. Finally, inotocin expression was not associated with acceptance of larvae, but was associated with a transition to male but not female parenting. Moreover, level of offspring provisioning behavior and gene expression were positively correlated in males but uncorrelated in females. Our results suggest a broad co-option of this system for parenting that may have existed prior to gene duplication.
No recombination suppression in asexually produced males ofDaphnia pulex
Authors: Molinier Cécile , Lenormand Thomas , Haag Christoph R 
Published: June 2023

AbstractObligate parthenogenesis (OP) is often thought to evolve by disruption of reductional meiosis and suppression of crossover recombination. In the crustacean Daphnia pulex, OP lineages, which have evolved from cyclical parthenogenetic (CP) ancestors, occasionally produce males that are capable of reductional meiosis. Here, by constructing high-density linkage maps, we find that these males show only slightly and nonsignificantly reduced recombination rates compared to CP males and females. Both meiosis disruption and recombination suppression are therefore sex-limited (or partly so), which speaks against the evolution of OP by disruption of a gene that is essential for meiosis or recombination in both sexes. The findings may be explained by female-limited action of genes that suppress recombination, but previously identified candidate genes are known to be expressed in both sexes. Alternatively, and equally consistent with the data, OP might have evolved through a reuse of the parthenogenesis pathways already present in CP and through their extension to all events of oogenesis. The causal mutations for the CP to OP transition may therefore include mutations in genes involved in oogenesis regulation and may not necessarily be restricted to genes of the “meiosis toolkit.” More generally, our study emphasizes that there are many ways to achieve asexuality, and elucidating the possible mechanisms is key to ultimately identify the genes and traits involved.
Glacial meltwater and seasonality influence community composition of diazotrophs in Arctic coastal and open waters
Authors: von Friesen Lisa W , Paulsen Maria L , Müller Oliver , Gründger Friederike , Riemann Lasse 
Published: June 2023

AbstractThe Arctic Ocean is particularly affected by climate change with unknown consequences for primary productivity. Diazotrophs—prokaryotes capable of converting atmospheric nitrogen to ammonia—have been detected in the often nitrogen-limited Arctic Ocean but distribution and community composition dynamics are largely unknown. We performed amplicon sequencing of the diazotroph marker gene nifH from glacial rivers, coastal, and open ocean regions and identified regionally distinct Arctic communities. Proteobacterial diazotrophs dominated all seasons, epi- to mesopelagic depths and rivers to open waters and, surprisingly, Cyanobacteria were only sporadically identified in coastal and freshwaters. The upstream environment of glacial rivers influenced diazotroph diversity, and in marine samples putative anaerobic sulphate-reducers showed seasonal succession with highest prevalence in summer to polar night. Betaproteobacteria (Burkholderiales, Nitrosomonadales, and Rhodocyclales) were typically found in rivers and freshwater-influenced waters, and Delta- (Desulfuromonadales, Desulfobacterales, and Desulfovibrionales) and Gammaproteobacteria in marine waters. The identified community composition dynamics, likely driven by runoff, inorganic nutrients, particulate organic carbon, and seasonality, imply diazotrophy a phenotype of ecological relevance with expected responsiveness to ongoing climate change. Our study largely expands baseline knowledge of Arctic diazotrophs—a prerequisite to understand underpinning of nitrogen fixation—and supports nitrogen fixation as a contributor of new nitrogen in the rapidly changing Arctic Ocean.
Tractidigestivibacter montrealensis sp. nov., a new member of human gut microbiota isolated from a healthy volunteer
Authors: Benlaïfaoui Myriam , Richard Corentin , Diop Awa , Naimi Sabrine , Belkaid Wiam , Bernet Eve , Veyrier Frederic , Elkrief Arielle , Bobay Louis-Marie , Routy Bertrand , Diop Khoudia 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Strain KD21T, isolated from the fecal sample of a healthy female volunteer, is a strictly anaerobic, non-motile, Gram-staining-positive, saccharolytic small rod that does not produce spores. Strain KD21T was able to grow in the range of temperature 28°C–37°C (optimum, 37 °C), pH 6.0–8.0 (optimum, pH 7.0), and with 0–5.0 g/l NaCl (optimum, 0 g/l NaCl). Bacteria cells reduced nitrates to nitrites. Its major fatty acids were C18:1ω9c, C16:0, C18:0, and summed in feature 8 (C18:1ω7c and/or C18:1ω6c). 16S rRNA gene phylogenetic analysis revealed that KD21T is a member of the genus Tractidigestivibacter and is distinct from any species with validly published names. The sequence showed 98.48% similarity with T. scatoligenes SK9K4T. The DNA G + C content of strain KD21T was 62.6 mol%. The DNA–DNA hybridization and OrthoANI values between strain KD21T and T. scatoligenes SK9K4T were 40.2% and 90.2%, respectively. Differences in phenotypic, phylogenetic, chemotaxonomic, and genomic characteristics indicated that strain KD21T represents a novel species within the genus Tractidigestivibacter. The name T. montrealensis sp. nov. is proposed and the type strain is KD21T (= CSUR Q8103T =  DSM 115111T).
Understanding the challenges of disaster victim identification: perspectives of Australian forensic practitioners
Authors: Adamovic Natasa , Howes Loene M , White Rob , Julian Roberta 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Disaster victim identification (DVI) is an important process in the aftermath of disasters to provide answers for the families and communities of victims. Australian forensic practitioners contribute to such processes internationally under difficult post-disaster circumstances. The aim of the study was to better understand the challenges experienced by forensic practitioners in international DVI operations. Participants (N = 20) included DNA analysts, fingerprint examiners, forensic odontologists, forensic pathologists, and mortuary technicians who had experience in DVI operations. Participants were interviewed about their experiences and perceptions of the challenges of DVI. The findings provide valuable insights into the types of DVI operations in which Australian forensic practitioners have been involved internationally. Thematic analysis of interview data resulted in five main themes: the post-disaster work environment; DVI management and processes; political and financial influences; teamwork in intercultural and interdisciplinary contexts; and confronting the emotional realities of DVI work. The analysis highlights the interrelated challenges associated with DVI operations in international contexts. Practitioners also provided suggestions for improvement, which generally aligned with the themes and reflected an ethos of learning and continuous improvement in DVI. Further research on education and training and capacity-development initiatives is warranted.
Dementia Caregivers’ Perspectives on Disaster Preparedness: Barriers, Resources, and Recommendations
Authors: Peterson Lindsay J , Hackett Sara E , Dobbs Debra , Haley William E 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Background and Objectives
Disaster preparedness is an urgent concern, particularly for caregivers of persons with dementia. Developing and executing plans for oneself and another person who needs care can be difficult when the care recipient is cognitively impaired. We sought to better understand caregivers’ disaster preparedness for the purpose of generating guidance for future interventions to increase caregiver resilience.

Research Design and Methods
We conducted a qualitative descriptive study of caregiver disaster experiences and perceptions of their preparedness. Fifty-two participants from diverse backgrounds participated in a focus group or interview. Deductive thematic data analysis was utilized to identify themes. Stress process models guided the interpretation of our findings.

Results
Analyses of caregivers’ experiences and observations revealed that disaster preparedness was challenging for caregivers, though also perceived to be an important responsibility. We identified 3 main themes: (a) barriers to preparing for a disaster as a caregiver for a person living with dementia, (b) why it is important for a caregiver to develop a disaster plan, and (c) how to facilitate preparedness for caregivers of persons living with dementia.

Discussion and Implications
This study highlighted the difficulties of preparing for a disaster while caring for a person with dementia. Applying stress process models to our results provided strong evidence that interventions could be developed to bolster caregivers’ resources to cope with stressors associated with disaster preparedness. A key issue for public officials is the question of whether disaster shelters are appropriate for persons with dementia.
Toward Healthy Aging in Palau
Authors: Xu Wenqian , Holm Tarita , Lee Siwon , Uherbelau Gaafar , Madraisau Sherilynn , Subediang Hera 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Background and Objectives
Palau is facing a rapidly aging population and developing a comprehensive national aging policy to address the growing needs of older adults, but more research is needed to understand their circumstances and needs in relation to healthy aging. This study aims to investigate these factors and contribute to developing the National Policy on Care for the Aging.

Research Design and Methods
The study adopted a participatory action research design and included focus groups with older adults, public consultations, and stakeholder interviews, providing insights into the needs of an aging population and how to address them. Thematic analysis was conducted to understand the experiences and needs of older adults and possible system changes to address these needs.

Results
This study identified the need to recognize cultural changes and optimize social and physical environments to improve the health and well-being of older adults. Older adults are valued in Palauan society, but harmful stereotypes and mistreatment of older adults exist. To address those needs and challenges, our stakeholders proposed a range of services, programs, and policies across sectors to create a healthy-enabling environment. Our findings also highlight the importance of health systems proactively reaching individuals and families to address lifelong health needs.

Discussion and Implications
Our results show the vital role of various sectors in fostering healthy aging and the importance of environmental and cultural perspectives in creating an age-friendly society, which can be an inspiration for other Pacific Island countries.
Reelin Plasma Levels Identify Cognitive Decline in Alcohol Use Disorder Patients During Early Abstinence: The Influence of APOE4 Expression
Authors: Escudero Berta , Moya Marta , López-Valencia Leticia , Arias Francisco , Orio Laura 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Background
Apolipoprotein E (APOE)-4 isoform, reelin, and clusterin share very–low-density liporeceptor and apolipoprotein E receptor 2 receptors and are related to cognition in neuropsychiatric disorders. These proteins are expressed in plasma and brain, but studies involving plasma expression and cognition are scarce.

Methods
We studied the peripheral expression (plasma and peripheral blood mononuclear cells) of these proteins in 24 middle-aged patients with alcohol use disorder (AUD) diagnosed at 4 to 12 weeks of abstinence (t = 0) and 34 controls. Cognition was assessed using the Test of Detection of Cognitive Impairment in Alcoholism. In a follow-up study (t = 1), we measured reelin levels and evaluated cognitive improvement at 6 months of abstinence.

Results
APOE4 isoform was present in 37.5% and 58.8% of patients and controls, respectively, reaching similar plasma levels in ε4 carriers regardless of whether they were patients with AUD or controls. Plasma reelin and clusterin were higher in the AUD group, and reelin levels peaked in patients expressing APOE4 (P &lt; .05, η2 = 0.09), who showed reduced very–low-density liporeceptor and apolipoprotein E receptor 2 expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. APOE4 had a negative effect on memory/learning mainly in the AUD group (P &lt; .01, η2 = 0.15). Multivariate logistic regression analyses identified plasma reelin as a good indicator of AUD cognitive impairment at t = 0. At t = 1, patients with AUD showed lower reelin levels vs controls along with some cognitive improvement.

Conclusions
Reelin plasma levels are elevated during early abstinence in patients with AUD who express the APOE4 isoform, identifying cognitive deterioration to a great extent, and it may participate as a homeostatic signal for cognitive recovery in the long term.