bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Development of infections among patients with myasthenia gravis undergoing immunotherapy
Authors: Konno Shingo , Uchi Takafumi , Isonishi Jun , Matsushima Mari , Kihara Hideo , Sugimoto Hideki , Fujioka Toshiki 
Published: July 2022

AbstractObjectivesEvidence on factors contributing to the development of infections in myasthenia gravis (MG) patients on immunotherapy is scarce.MethodsWe studied 192 MG patients attending our hospital between April 2000 and May 2021. We examined the data of patients who had undergone immunotherapy and developed an infection and analyzed factors influencing infectious events including MG severity, antibody type, thymoma, thymectomy, treatment regimens and duration, and status of MG.ResultsA total of 148/192 (77%) patients (52 men, mean onset 43 y) underwent immunotherapy. Of these, 22/148 (14.8%) patients developed an infection‐related hospitalization within 10 y of starting immunotherapy. Respiratory infections occurred in 14/22 (63.6%) of patients. The infections were fatal in 6/22 (27.2%) of patients. Infection‐associated myasthenic crisis developed in 4/22 (18.1%) patients. Age at MG onset was the only variable associated with the development of infection (hazard ratio [HR]; 1.056, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 1.0291.085, P < .001). The infection‐free rate within 10 y of starting immunotherapy by MG subtype was 83.5% (95% CI: 61.4–93.5%) in ocular‐MG (n = 29), and 87.5% (95% CI: 72.3–94.7%) in generalized early‐onset MG (n = 55), 46.1% (95% CI: 21.7–67.6%) in generalized late‐onset MG (n = 22), 87.7% (95% CI; 66.3–95.9%) in thymoma‐associated MG (n = 29). Patients with muscle‐specific tyrosine kinase antibody‐positive MG (n = 2) and antibodies‐negative MG (n = 11) did not experience infections.ConclusionAge at onset of MG was a significant contributor to the development of infection. Generalized late‐onset MG is the most susceptible to infection and should be carefully monitored during immunotherapy.
Single‐cell RNA sequencing in oral science: Current awareness and perspectives
Authors: Wu Jie , Ding Yumei , Wang Jinyu , Lyu Fengyuan , Tang Qingming , Song Jiangyuan , Luo Zhiqiang , Wan Qian , Lan Xiaoli , Xu Zhi , Chen Lili 
Published: July 2022

AbstractThe emergence of single‐cell RNA sequencing enables simultaneous sequencing of thousands of cells, making the analysis of cell population heterogeneity more efficient. In recent years, single‐cell RNA sequencing has been used in the investigation of heterogeneous cell populations, cellular developmental trajectories, stochastic gene transcriptional kinetics, and gene regulatory networks, providing strong support in life science research. However, the application of single‐cell RNA sequencing in the field of oral science has not been reviewed comprehensively yet. Therefore, this paper reviews the development and application of single‐cell RNA sequencing in oral science, including fields of tissue development, teeth and jaws diseases, maxillofacial tumors, infections, etc., providing reference and prospects for using single‐cell RNA sequencing in studying the oral diseases, tissue development, and regeneration.
Sirt6 deficiency contributes to mitochondrial fission and oxidative damage in podocytes via ROCK1‐Drp1 signalling pathway
Authors: Chen Zhaowei , Liang Wei , Hu Jijia , Zhu Zijing , Feng Jun , Ma Yiqiong , Yang Qian , Ding Guohua 
Published: July 2022

AbstractObjectivesIncreasing evidence suggests that mitochondrial dysfunction is the key driver of angiotensin II (Ang II)‐induced kidney injury. This study was designed to investigate whether Sirtuin 6 (Sirt6) could affect Ang II‐induced mitochondrial damage and the potential mechanisms.Materials and MethodsPodocyte‐specific Sirt6 knockout mice were infused with Ang II and cultured podocytes were stimulated with Ang II to evaluate the effects of Sirt6 on mitochondrial structure and function in podocytes. Immunofluorescence staining was used to detect protein expression and mitochondrial morphology in vitro. Electron microscopy was used to assess mitochondrial morphology in mice. Western blotting was used to quantify protein expression.ResultsMitochondrial fission and decreased Sirt6 expression were observed in podocytes from Ang II‐infused mice. In Sirt6‐deficient mice, Ang II infusion induced increased apoptosis and mitochondrial fragmentation in podocytes than that in Ang II‐infused wild‐type mice. In cultured human podocytes, Sirt6 knockdown exacerbated Ang II‐induced mitochondrial fission, whereas Sirt6 overexpression ameliorated the Ang II‐induced changes in the balance between mitochondrial fusion and fission. Functional studies revealed that Sirt6 deficiency exacerbated mitochondrial fission by promoting dynamin‐related protein 1 (Drp1) phosphorylation. Furthermore, Sirt6 mediated Drp1 phosphorylation by promoting Rho‐associated coiled coil‐containing protein kinase 1 (ROCK1) expression.ConclusionOur study has identified Sirt6 as a vital factor that protects against Ang II‐induced mitochondrial fission and apoptosis in podocytes via the ROCK1‐Drp1 signalling pathway.
Riparian buffers provide refugia during secondary forest succession
Authors: Thompson Michelle E. , Halstead Brian J. , Donnelly Maureen A. 
Published: July 2022

AbstractAimSecondary forests regenerating from human disturbance are increasingly becoming a predominant forest type in many regions, and they play a significant role in forest community dynamics. Understanding the factors that underlie the variation in species responses during secondary succession is important for understanding community assembly and biodiversity monitoring and management. Because species vary in ecology and behaviour, responses to ecosystem change should vary among species. Here, we show that habitat type (riparian, upland), phylogeny, and species traits mediate anuran and lizard probability of occurrence and species richness in pasture and secondary forest.LocationSarapiquí and Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica.MethodsWe used phylogenetic occupancy models to estimate assemblage‐level and species‐specific responses to forest succession in 30 chronosequence sites that include pasture, secondary forest regenerating from pasture, and mature forest sites.ResultsFor the majority of species, we found increasing probability of occurrence in upland habitats as forest regenerated from pasture to secondary forest and similar probability of occurrence in riparian habitats across pasture, secondary forest, and mature forest sites. Species' responses to forest stage were phylogenetically correlated, and the trend was especially strong for anuran response to pasture sites. Anurans with lentic larval habitat had a positive occupancy response to pasture upland habitat, and anurans with lotic larval habitat had a variable response to different forest stages compared to mature forest.Main ConclusionsOur study, which focuses on sites that are minimally isolated from mature forest reference sites, indicated that anuran and lizard occupancy rapidly recovered to a level similar to mature forest in a relatively short time span (approximately 20 years). Riparian habitats are key ecosystem features in our system and provide refugia for organisms in early successional stages. Maintenance of vegetation along streams shows that we can mitigate forest conversion by maintaining riparian buffers.
Are invasive species a phylogenetically clustered subset of naturalized species in regional floras? A case study for flowering plants in China
Authors: Qian Hong , Rejmánek Marcel , Qian Shenhua 
Published: July 2022

AbstractAimWe test (1) whether invasive angiosperm (flowering plant) species are a phylogenetically clustered subset of all naturalized angiosperm species within an angiosperm assemblage, (2) whether more harmful invasive species are more strongly, or less strongly, related to each other, (3) whether the result of the first test is consistent with those for geographic regions distributed in substantially different climatic conditions, and (4) whether patterns of phylogenetic relatedness for invasive species in regions across climatic gradients are consistent with those for overall naturalized species.LocationChina.Time periodCurrent.TaxonAngiosperms (flowering plants).MethodsWe recognized 28 province‐level regions in China and collated naturalized and invasive species lists of angiosperms for each region. Two phylogenetic metrics (i.e., net relatedness index and nearest taxon index), which represent different depths of evolutionary history, were used to quantify phylogenetic relatedness of angiosperms in China and in each region. Values of the metrics of phylogenetic relatedness were related to temperature and precipitation.ResultsAt the national scale, invasive assemblage is a phylogenetically clustered subset of the naturalized species pool. More harmful invasive species are more strongly clustered. At the regional scale, both naturalized and invasive species are phylogenetically clustered subsets of the national naturalized species pool. Furthermore, invasive species in regional floras are also phylogenetically clustered subsets of their respective regional naturalized species pools.Main conclusionsInvasive angiosperm species are a phylogenetically clustered subset of naturalized angiosperm species. More harmful invasive species are more strongly clustered with respect to their naturalized species pools, compared to less harmful invasive species. Our findings have significant implications to predicting and controlling invasive species based on phylogenetic relatedness among naturalized species.
Differences and similarities in the experience of living with diabetes distress: A qualitative study of adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes
Authors: Orben Kimberlee , Ritholz Marilyn D. , McCalla Monet , Beverly Elizabeth A. 
Published: July 2022

AbstractAimsTo explore the lived experiences of diabetes distress (DD) in adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, and to identify similarities and differences in these experiences.MethodsWe conducted in‐depth interviews with people with type 1 (n = 19) and type 2 diabetes (n = 29). We conducted thematic analysis using NVivo 12 software.ResultsWe identified three themes: (1) Experiencing Diabetes Distress as a Lack of Control – Similarities: All participants voiced a perceived lack of control with their glucose levels and other peoples' misconceptions about diabetes. Differences: Nearly all type 1 participants described a “lack of control” over emotional reactions to hypo‐ and hyperglycaemia as opposed to only one type 2 participant. (2) Experiencing Diabetes Distress as a Burden of Constant Management – Similarities: All participants emphasized the nonstop, relentless nature of diabetes management. Differences: type 1 participants described self‐care as vital, with life‐threatening consequences if not performed, while type 2 participants did not perceive such dangerous consequences. (3) Understanding the Value of Social Support in Diabetes Distress – Similarities: All participants acknowledged the importance of having others recognize the difficulties of living with diabetes. Differences: type 1 participants noted actual experiences where peers and health care professionals acknowledged that burden, whereas type 2 participants expressed a desire for this support that was not present in their lives.ConclusionsFindings revealed subtle differences in perceptions of DD among adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, which suggest a need to tailor treatment for people with each type of diabetes.
Common misconceptions of randomized controlled trials in oncology
Authors: Powell Kerrington , Prasad Vinay 
Published: July 2022

AbstractIn biomedicine, randomized controlled trials are regarded as the gold standard of evidence owing to their ability to minimize confounding factors that may influence results. Randomized trials that are properly designed serve as a basis for drug regulation and national guideline development. Despite the many advantages of the study design, there are several misconceptions regarding randomized trials, particularly in oncology. These misconceptions include: the difficulty of designing and conducting a trial, the length of time necessary to complete a trial, the expense, appraisal and critique, pharmaceutical industry influence, and ethical standards. Furthermore, developing regulatory and strategic frameworks has the potential to enhance the randomized trial landscape. Such initiatives will focus on relevant clinical issues that persist in oncology, reducing duplicative and unethical trials and maximizing value‐based healthcare. Here, we address several misconceptions regarding randomized controlled trials and provide potential solutions to enhance their methodology and implementation.
Frailty trajectories in community‐dwelling older adults during COVID‐19 pandemic: The PRESTIGE study
Authors: Pilotto Alberto , Custodero Carlo , Zora Sabrina , Poli Stefano , Senesi Barbara , Prete Camilla , Tavella Erica , Veronese Nicola , Zini Elena , Torrigiani Claudio , Sabbà Carlo , Cella Alberto ,   the PRESTIGE Study Investigators
Published: July 2022

AbstractBackgroundFrailty has been recognized as potential surrogate of biological age and relevant risk factor for COVID‐19 severity. Thus, it is important to explore the frailty trajectories during COVID‐19 pandemic and understand how COVID‐19 directly and indirectly impacts on frailty condition.MethodsWe enrolled 217 community‐dwelling older adults with available information on frailty condition as assessed by multidimensional frailty model both at baseline and at one‐year follow‐up using Multidimensional Prognostic Index (MPI) tools. Pre‐frail/frail subjects were identified at baseline as those with MPI score >0.33 (MPI grades 2–3). Frailty worsening was defined by MPI difference between 12 months follow‐up and baseline ≥0.1. Multivariable logistic regression was modelled to identify predictors of worsening of frailty condition.ResultsFrailer subjects at baseline (MPI grades 2–3 = 48.4%) were older, more frequently female and had higher rates of hospitalization and Sars‐CoV‐2 infection compared to robust ones (MPI grade 1). Having MPI grades 2–3 at baseline was associated with higher risk of further worsening of frailty condition (adjusted odd ratio (aOR): 13.60, 95% confidence interval (CI): 4.01–46.09), independently by age, gender and Sars‐CoV‐2 infection. Specifically, frail subjects without COVID‐19 (aOR: 14.84, 95% CI: 4.26–51.74) as well as those with COVID‐19 (aOR: 12.77, 95% CI: 2.66–61.40, p = 0.001) had significantly higher risk of worsening of frailty condition.ConclusionsEffects of COVID‐19 pandemic among community‐dwelling frailer individuals are far beyond the mere infection and disease, determining a significant deterioration of frailty status both in infected and non‐infected subjects.
Low triiodothyronine syndrome is associated with stroke‐associated pneumonia
Authors: Chen Huijun , Xu Minjie , Huang Yezhi , He Jincai , Ren Wenwei 
Published: July 2022

AbstractObjectiveStroke‐associated pneumonia (SAP) is the most common early consequence in patients suffering from an acute ischaemic stroke (AIS). The purpose of this study was to explore the possible relationship between low triiodothyronine (T3) syndrome and SAP in stroke patients.MethodsThis study recruited 2460 consecutive AIS patients. SAP was defined according to the modified Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria for hospital‐acquired pneumonia. The thyroid hormones levels were measured within 24 h after admission. Low T3 syndrome was characterized as T3 below the lower limit of the reference interval accompanied by normal TSH levels.ResultsAmong the total patients, 336 (13.7%) patients were diagnosed with SAP. SAP in individuals with low T3 syndrome was substantially greater (p < .001) as compared to those without low T3 syndrome. After adjusting for possible confounders, low T3 syndrome (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.59; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.20–2.09; p = .001) remained significant in our logistic model. Patients with low T3 syndrome had a higher risk of severe SAP (aOR = 2.17, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.38–3.44; p = .001).ConclusionLow T3 syndrome, independent of recognized risk factors, is a possible risk factor for in‐hospital SAP, which can help clinicians in the early detection and treatment of high‐risk patients.
Volanesorsen to treat severe hypertriglyceridaemia: A pooled analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Calcaterra Ilenia , Lupoli Roberta , Di Minno Alessandro , Di Minno Matteo Nicola Dario 
Published: July 2022

AbstractBackgroundPatients with severe hypertriglyceridaemia (sHTG) are often refractory to lipid‐lowering therapy. Apolipoprotein (Apo) CIII inhibition could be promising to treat subjects with sHTG. The antisense oligonucleotide against APOC3 mRNA volanesorsen was recently introduced to treat sHTG. We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis of RCTs on the efficacy and safety of volanesorsen as compared to placebo treatment in patients with severe HTG.MethodsStudies were systematically searched in the PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus databases according to PRISMA guidelines. The last search was performed on 7 February 2022.ResultsFour studies showed significant reduction in TG after 3 months of treatment with volanesorsen as compared with placebo (MD: −73.9%; 95%CI: −93.5%, −54.2; p < .001 I2 = 89.05%; p < .001); VLDL‐C level (MD: −71.0%; 95%CI: −76.6%, −65.4%; p < .001 I2 = 94.1%; p < .001); Apo‐B48 level (MD: −69.03%; 95%CI: −98.59.4%, −39.47%; p < .001, I2 = 93.51%; p < .001) and Apo‐CIII level (MD: −80.0%; 95%CI: −97.5%, −62.5; p < .001 I2 = 94.1%; p < .001) with an increase in HDL‐C level (MD: +45.92%, 95%CI: +37.24%, +54.60%; p < .001 I2 = 94.34%; p < .001) and in LDL‐C level (MD: +68.6%, 95%CI: +7.0%, +130.1%; p < .001 I2 = 96.18%; p < .001) without a significant elevation of Apo‐B100 level (MD: +4.58%, 95%CI: −5.64%, +14.79%; p = .380 I2 = 95.09%; p < .001) in 139 volanesorsen patients as compared to 100 placebo‐treated controls. Most of adverse events were mild and related to local injection site reactions.ConclusionsIn patients with severe HTG, volanesorsen is associated with a significant reduction in TG, VLDL‐C, Apo‐B48 and non‐HDL‐C and increment of HDL‐C as compared to placebo. Documented efficacy is accompanied by an acceptable safety profile.
Antibody response after COVID‐19 vaccination in intravenous immunoglobulin‐treated immune neuropathies
Authors: Svačina Martin K. R. , Meißner Anika , Schweitzer Finja , Ladwig Anne , Sprenger‐Svačina Alina , Klein Ines , Wüstenberg Hauke , Kohle Felix , Schneider Christian , Grether Nicolai B. , Wunderlich Gilbert , Fink Gereon R. , Klein Florian , Di Cristanziano Veronica , Lehmann Helmar C. 
Published: July 2022

AbstractBackground and purposeThis study assessed the prevalence of anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 antibodies in therapeutic immunoglobulin and their impact on serological response to COVID‐19 mRNA vaccine in patients with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg)‐treated chronic immune neuropathies.MethodsForty‐six samples of different brands or lots of IVIg or subcutaneous IgG were analyzed for anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay. Blood sera from 16 patients with immune neuropathies were prospectively analyzed for anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgA, IgG, and IgM before and 1 week after IVIg infusion subsequent to consecutive COVID‐19 mRNA vaccine doses and after 12 weeks. These were compared to 42 healthy subjects.ResultsTwenty‐four (52%) therapeutic immunoglobulin samples contained anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG. All patients with immune neuropathies (mean age = 65 ± 16 years, 25% female) were positive for anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG after COVID‐19 vaccination. Anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgA titers significantly decreased 12–14 weeks after vaccination (p = 0.02), whereas IgG titers remained stable (p = 0.2). IVIg did not significantly reduce intraindividual anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgA/IgG serum titers in immune neuropathies (p = 0.69). IVIg‐derived anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG did not alter serum anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG decrease after IVIg administration (p = 0.67).ConclusionsOur study indicates that IVIg does not impair the antibody response to COVID‐19 mRNA vaccine in a short‐term observation, when administered a minimum of 2 weeks after each vaccine dose. The infusion of current IVIg preparations that contain anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG does not significantly alter serum anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG titers.
Effect of daily treadmill running exercise on masseter muscle nociception associated with social defeat stress in mice
Authors: Hasegawa Mana , Piriyaprasath Kajita , Otake Masanori , Kamimura Rantaro , Saito Isao , Fujii Noritaka , Yamamura Kensuke , Okamoto Keiichiro 
Published: July 2022

AbstractWe investigated the effects of social defeat stress (SDS) and treadmill running on masseter muscle nociception, which was quantified by the orofacial formalin test and c‐Fos and FosB immunoreactivities in the upper cervical spinal cord (C1/C2) region in male mice. After daily SDS or non‐SDS conditioning for 10 days, SDS‐conditioned mice were categorized into SDS‐susceptible versus resilient mice. Several mice, including non‐SDS‐conditioned, SDS‐susceptible, and resilient mice, were selected to assess masseter muscle nociception on Day 11. SDS conditioning for 10 days increased masseter muscle‐evoked nocifensive behaviors and c‐Fos and FosB expression in SDS‐susceptible compared to non‐SDS and resilient mice. The remaining SDS‐susceptible and non‐SDS mice were subjected to an additional 10 days of SDS plus treadmill running or sedentary sessions before assessing masseter muscle nociception on Day 21. Daily treadmill running sessions reduced enhanced masseter muscle nociception in SDS‐susceptible mice but not in non‐SDS mice. The preventive effects of daily treadmill running immediately after each SDS conditioning for 10 days on orofacial nocifensive behaviors were assessed on Day 11. Treadmill running conducted immediately after daily SDS inhibited enhanced orofacial nocifensive behaviors. These findings indicate that repeated SDS increases masseter muscle nociception, which could be prevented by daily treadmill running exercise.
Plasma syndecan‐1 concentration as a biomarker for endothelial glycocalyx degradation in septic adult horses
Authors: Hobbs Kallie J. , Johnson Philip J. , Wiedmeyer Charles E. , Schultz Loren , Foote Christopher A. 
Published: July 2022

AbstractBackgroundLimited information is available regarding endothelial glycocalyx degradation during sepsis in horses. Plasma syndecan‐1 concentrations are increased in consequence of sepsis in other species and have been useful for prognostication.ObjectivesTo determine whether plasma syndecan‐1 levels are increased in adult horses affected with sepsis.Study designRetrospective cohort study.MethodsAdult horses were assigned to one of three groups based on results of physical and laboratory examinations, clinical diagnosis, and results of previously described SIRS classification: Group 1 horses included healthy, nonseptic horses; Group 2 included horses in which clinical illness was identified but that were not considered to be septic; Group 3 included horses with a clinical diagnosis of sepsis. Plasma syndecan‐1 concentration was determined in blood obtained at admission into the hospital for each horse, using an equine specific ELISA. Data were analysed using ANOVA and linear regression (p ≤ 0.05).ResultsOne hundred and ninety‐one horses were included and divided into three groups. Scores for SIRS were highest for Group 3 horses and lowest in Groups 1 and 2. Plasma syndecan‐1 concentrations in Group 3 horses (50.73 ± 84.24 μg/ml; n = 42) were greater than those for Group 1 (15.69 ± 11.28 μg/ml; n = 66) and Group 2 (16.88 ± 15.30 μg/ml; n = 83). There was no difference regarding syndecan concentrations between Groups 1 and 2.Main limitationsRetrospective study design, solitary time point of measurement for each patient, and lack of a widely accepted consensus regarding definitive diagnosis of sepsis in adult horses.ConclusionsCirculating plasma levels of syndecan‐1, a biochemical marker of endothelial glycocalyx damage, are increased in septic adult horses.