bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract P416: Differences In Immune Cell Composition And Response Between Spontaneously Hypertensive Bph/2 Mice And Normotensive Bpn/3 Mice
Authors: Rockwell Cheryl , McDonald Paiton , Chowdhury Afrin , Awali Saamera , Jin Yining , Boss Allison , Sather Lisa , Lauver Adam A
Published: October 2023

There is considerable evidence for a role for the immune system in different animal models of hypertension. However, whether there are differences in the immune systems of Bph/2 spontaneously hypertensive mice and Bpn/3 normotensive mice is not known. To address this, we characterized the immune composition and response of male Bph/2 and Bpn/3 mice. Bph/2 mice had significantly lower body weight compared to Bpn/3 mice (Bpn: 32.0 ± 0.5 g; Bph: 23.0 ± 0.5 g) with a proportionately lower spleen weight (Bpn: 70.1 ± 9.8 mg; Bph: 48.6 ± 2.1 mg). As expected, Bph/2 mice had higher blood pressure than Bpn/3 mice. Bph/2 mice also had a higher percentage of CD4 T cells in brachial lymph nodes compared to Bpn/3 mice (Bpn: 48.0 ± 0.57, Bph: 58.6 ± 1.94) and a lower percentage of CD8 T cells (Bpn: 46.4 ± 1.07, Bph: 38.9 ± 1.84), causing an increased CD4:CD8 T cell ratio in Bph/2 mice (Bpn: 1.04 ± 0.03, Bph: 1.53 ± 0.12). This trend was also observed in inguinal lymph nodes, but not in spleens or mesenteric lymph nodes. There were also differences in the response of anti-CD3/anti-CD28-activated splenocytes. Specifically, IFNγ secretion was markedly lower in splenic T cells from Bph/2 mice compared to those from Bpn/3 mice 24 h after activation (Bpn: 4902 ± 1532 pg/ml, Bph/2: 921 ± 462 pg/ml). Similarly, IL-2 (Bpn: 3960 ± 1070 pg/ml; Bph: 1121 ± 247 pg/ml), IL-6 (Bpn: 297 ± 94 pg/ml, Bph: 64 ± 15 pg/ml) and TNFα (Bpn: 170 ± 33 pg/ml; Bph: 59 ± 15 pg/ml) induction was also lower in T cells from Bph/2 mice. Interestingly, we also found that Bpn/3 mice do not express the NK cell marker, NK1.1. Taken together, the data suggest significant differences in immune composition and response between Bph/2 and Bpn/3 mice and indicate a need to further evaluate the role of the immune system in the development of hypertension in this model.
Abstract P419: First-Trimester Maternal Hemodynamics In Patients With Or Without Chronic Hypertension Using USCOM (ultrasound Cardiac Output Monitor), A Non-invasive And Quantitative Method.
Authors: Ahn Hyunyoung , Abhari Pouya , Sfakianaki Anna , Zarnegarnia Yalda , Cosio Daniela , Delgado-Lelievre Maria C , Paidas Michael
Published: October 2023

Objective:
We aim to investigate maternal hemodynamics at 10-14 weeks of gestation among patients with and without chronic hypertension, utilizing USCOM®, a non-invasive cardiac output monitor.

Methods:
A prospective pilot study was conducted for women with singleton pregnancies. Independent T, Mann-Whitney U, and Chi-square tests were used to analyze cardiovascular parameters via Doppler waveform.

Results:
Thirteen pregnant women with preexisting hypertension and no other medical comorbidities were selected, and 26 controls were matched based on maternal age, ethnicity, and BMI in a ratio of 1:2. Six patients with chronic hypertension were on anti-hypertensive medications. Tables 1 and 2 present each respective group's basic demographic and hemodynamic characteristics.

Conclusion:
Despite no differences in BP, our study revealed significant hemodynamic changes in chronic hypertensive patients in the first trimester. Chronic hypertensive patients might have pre-existing pathological cardiovascular adaptation in early pregnancy, potentially compromising perinatal outcomes.
Abstract P422: CD4+ T Cells From Preeclamptic Patients During Pregnancy Causes Cognitive Dysfunction Postpartum In A Pregnant Rat Model
Authors: Deer Evangeline M , Herrock Owen , Simmons Kimberly , Morris Rachael , Roman Richard J , Turner Ty , Amaral Lorena M , Lamarca Babbette B
Published: October 2023

Preeclampsia (PE), new onset hypertension (HTN) during pregnancy, is associated with impaired cognitive function and increased cerebral blood flow (CBF). Although we have previously shown adoptive transfer of placental CD4+ T cells from PE women into athymic nude pregnant rats causes HTN and circulating factors associated with PE, we do not know the role of CD4+ T cells in contributing to impaired cerebral blood flow and cognitive dysfunction in the postpartum period. Therefore, we hypothesize that adoptive transfer of placental CD4+ T cells from PE patients into pregnant athymic nude recipient rats will cause maternal hypertension and cognitive dysfunction and impaired CBF postpartum. Placental CD4+ T cells were isolated from normotensive (NP) and preeclamptic (PE) pregnant women at delivery. One million CD4+ T cells were injected interperitoneally (i.p.) into normal pregnant nude athymic rats on gestational day (GD) 12. Dams were allowed to deliver and aged 12-weeks after delivery. Blood pressure (MAP) was measured by carotid catheter and at 12-weeks postpartum CBF autoregulation was measured by laser Doppler flowmetry. The Barnes maze and the novel object recognition behavioral assays were used to assess cognitive function on gestational day (GD) 15-19 and 12-weeks postpartum. A student’s t-test was used for statistical analysis. MAP increased during pregnancy in PE recipient rats (115±2 mmHg, n=5) compared to NP recipient rats (99±3 mmHg, n=4, p< 0.05). MAP significantly increased in the postpartum period in PE recipient rats (114±2 mmHg, n=5) compared to NP controls (98±2 mmHg, n=7, p<0.05). PE recipient rats exhibited latency with errors navigating in the Barnes maze compared to NP controls during pregnancy and postpartum. Locomotor activity was decreased in PE recipient rats compared to NP controls during pregnancy (p<0.05) and postpartum. PE recipient rats had increased CBF autoregulation compared to NP rat recipients in the postpartum period. Our findings indicate that rat recipients of CD4+ T cells from PE patients demonstrate maternal HTN and increased CBF and cognitive dysfunction in the postpartum period compared to recipients of NP CD4 + T cells. These data indicate long-term cognitive and cerebral dysfunction as a result of preeclampsia.
Abstract P423: INCREASED LEVELS OF URINARY ANGIOGENIC FACTORS AND MARINOBUFAGENIN IN PREECLAMPSIA PATEINT
Authors: Mohamed Sara , Morgan India , Pantho Ahmed , Vora Niraj , Kuehl Thomas , Zawieja David , Beeram Madhava , Uddin Mohammad
Published: October 2023

Background:
Preeclampsia (preE) is a syndrome which occurs in 3-10% of pregnancies and is a leading cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. The precise etiology (etiologies) of this syndrome remain(s) unknown. There is no single biomarker for detection of the syndrome.

Objective:
To measure angiogenic, antiangiogenic factors, and MBG in urine of pregnant patients with and without preE.

Methods:
A prospective cohort of patients with normal pregnancies and of those with preE were recruited. sFlt-1, soluble endoglin (sEng), PlGF, TGF-β-1, VEGF, and MBG were assayed using ELISA and results corrected to units per mg creatinine. Patient characteristics were compared using Chi-square tests for proportions, Student’s t test for parametric data, and Mann-Whitney U test for nonparametric data. P < 0.05 was taken as significant. Variation associated with gestational age was examined using correlations and when appropriate linear regression equations were obtained. Receiver operator curves (ROC) were examined to establish criteria levels for those factors that varied with preeclampsia.

Results:
In total, 40 patients with normal pregnancies were sampled between 22 and 39 weeks gestation and 30 patients with preE were sampled between 28 and 39 weeks gestation. As expected, groups differed (p < 0.02) for blood pressure, gestational age at delivery, and age. They did not differ for weight (p = 0.28), height (p = 0.38), and creatinine levels (p = 0.29). Groups differed in sEng (p = 0.016), PlGF (p = 0.018), sFlt-1 (p = 0.00066), and MBG (p < 0.0001). The PlGF levels were less in preE while sEng, sFlt-1 and MBG levels were increased. TGF-β-1 and VEGF did not differ between groups (p > 0.14). Only urinary MBG was found to vary with gestational age in preE (p = 0.0009). MBG, sFlt-1, PlGF, and sFlt-1/PlGF ratio had significant ROC area under the curve measures (p < 0.02) with criteria for preeclampsia that provided sensitivities between 65 and 88% and specificities between 74 and 96%.

Conclusions:
Urinary levels of angiogenic and antiangiogenic factors and MBG as measured in urine demonstrated differences in patients with clinical diagnosis of preE. Urine specimen procurement and assay are less invasive and potentially more acceptable for assessment of preE.
Abstract P427: Effects Of Sedentary Activity In Pregnancy
Authors: Santillan Donna A , Blocklinger Kelsey , Leibold Emily , Brandt Debra , Nuckols Virginia , Stroud Amy , Dubose Lyndsey E , Luehrs Rachel , Betz Alexandria , Pierce Gary L , Santillan Mark K
Published: October 2023

Introduction:
Preeclampsia is a multi-organ syndrome of late pregnancy characterized by gestational hypertension and proteinuria. There is strong evidence that maternal vascular dysfunction may be involved in the pathogenesis of this disorder. Regular physical activity during pregnancy has the potential to reduce this risk. Although physical activity during pregnancy is recommended, patient adherence is low. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the extent to which physical activity was associated with cardiovascular function throughout pregnancy in order to serve as an important intervention to prevent adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Methods:
Pregnant patients in their first trimester were recruited from obstetric outpatient clinics at the University of Iowa. Once consented, research participants completed a study visit during each trimester of pregnancy. Participants were administered the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire, a 36-item survey that asked about the amount of physical activity performed within the past 12 weeks. Participants’ vitals, BMI, and measures of vascular endothelial function and aortic stiffness were obtained at each visit.

Results:
Physical activity was measured in MET hours per week in each trimester of pregnancy. Pregnant women engaged in less physical activity by the end of their pregnancy, with an average of 193.6 MET hrs/week during the first trimester compared to 166.9 MET hrs/week during the third trimester. Sedentary time was found to be positively correlated with BMI during the second (β = .114, 95% CI [.020, .209], p-value = .018) and third trimesters of pregnancy (β = .212, 95% CI [.083, .340], p-value = .001). In addition, sedentary time positively correlated with aortic stiffness during the third trimester (ρ = .192, p-value = .014).

Conclusion:
Excess gestational weight gain is associated with short- and long-term pregnancy complications, including the development of preeclampsia. We found that women were less active later in pregnancy, and that increased sedentary time was associated with higher BMI in the second and third trimesters. Therefore, it is imperative that physical activity be highly encouraged throughout pregnancy to help prevent adverse health outcomes.
Abstract P430: Primary Neuronal Cilium As A Novel Mediator Of Angiotensin II And Hypertension
Authors: Guo Deng-Fu , Amundson Samantha H , Anders Jeffery , Rahmouni Kamal
Published: October 2023

Cilia are membrane-bound, microtubular projections emanating from the cell surface and present on virtually all cell types including neurons. Cilia abnormalities (ciliopathies) have been linked to a broad range of diseases including hypertension. Moreover, we previously reported that DOCA-salt hypertension is associated with alterations in cilia in select nuclei involved in cardiovascular regulation and fluid homeostasis such as the supraoptic nucleus, but the underlying mechanisms are not known. Given the well-established role of the brain renin-angiotensin system in DOCA-salt hypertension, we hypothesized that Angiotensin II (Ang II) contribute to neuronal cilia abnormalities in hypertension. We began by examining the effect of Ang II on cilia in two different neuronal cell lines, mouse hypothalamic N47 and Cath.a. Ang II treatment (100 nM for 4 hrs) caused a significant increase in cilia length of N47 cells that were transiently transfected with a Flag-tagged AT1a receptor (AT1aR) compared to non-transfected cells (3.83±0.15 μm vs 2.25±0.06 μm, P<0.05). No change in cilia length was observed in AT1aR positive (2.71±0.09 μm) or negative cells (2.55±0.07 μm) treated with vehicle. Moreover, Ang II had no effect on cilia in N47 cells transfected with a Flag-tagged AT2R. Ang II also significantly increased cilia length in Cath.a cells which express the endogenous AT1aR. Truncation of AT1aR at position 318 resulted in loss of Ang II induced cilia elongation in N47 cells, indicating that the C-terminus of the receptor is important for Ang II regulation of cilia. Next, we evaluated the effect of Ang II infusion with minipumps (480ng/kg/min) on neuronal cilia in C57BL/6 mice. Mice infused with Ang II for 5 days which have elevated blood pressure displayed abnormally elongated cilia in the supraoptic nucleus (8.28±0.12 μm vs 6.37± 0.11 μm, P<0.05). Interestingly, Ang II-induced cilia elongation preceded the development of hypertension as it was observed in mice infused with Ang II for 2 days when no change in blood pressure was detected. These findings point to Ang II as an important regulator of neuronal cilia via AT1aR. This represents a novel mechanism for cardiovascular regulation by the renin-angiotensin system.
Abstract P431: SARS-CoV-2-induced Inflammation In Human Endothelial Cells Involves ACE2
Authors: Montezano Augusto C , Camargo Livia L , Mary Sheon , Rios Francisco J , He Ying , Touyz Rhian M
Published: October 2023

COVID-19 is associated with hypertension, where endotheliitis and endothelial dysfunction are risk factors. Considering the relationship between the viral spike protein and ACE2, it is unclear whether this interaction is merely a mechanism of infection or whether contributes to vascular injury induced by SARS-CoV-2. Here we tested whether ACE2 acts as a receptor for SARS-CoV-2 pro-inflammatory responses, independently of ACE2 enzymatic function, in human endothelial cells (ECs). ECs and ACE2-expressing HEK cells were exposed to recombinant SARS-CoV-2 spike protein [(rS1p) 0.66 μg/mL] for 24h. Gene expression was assessed by RT-PCR and cytokine release was assessed by ELISA. Protein expression was assessed by immunoblotting. ACE2 was blocked by MLN4760 (ACE2 inhibitor) and siRNA. Label-free quantitation of full proteome of ECs after rS1p exposure or ACE2 co-immunoprecipitation was performed. Co-localization studies were performed by confocal microscopy. Proteomics identified 1150 proteins associated with NFκB signalling and inflammation. 21 proteins were found to be differentially expressed vs vehicle-treated cells (fold change >2, p<0.05), including upregulation of ICAM-1. rS1p increased levels of IL6 (1221.2±18.3
vs.
C:22.77±3.2 pg/mL); ICAM1 (17.7±3.1
vs.
C:3.9±0.4 AU); PAI1 (5.6±0.7
vs.
C: 2.9±0.2) and NFκB activation (0.13±0.004
vs.
C:0.06±0.01 AU); p<0.05. MLN4760 and ACE2 siRNA blocked rS1P effects. rS1p did not alter ACE2 enzymatic activity. HEK-ACE2 cells had increased IL-8 (78.7±8
vs.
C:56.2±4 pg/mL), while rS1p induced IL-8 production only in HEK expressing ACE2 (ACE2:112.8±5.3
vs.
C:60.3±3.3 pg/mL); p<0.05. ACE2 CO-IP proteomics identified 216 proteins (filtered with ≥1 unique peptide, 1% FDR) along with ACE-2 (11 peptides). Potential candidate interacting proteins include caveolin 1 (Cav 1). Co-localization studies confirmed interactions between ACE2/Cav-1 in ECs, which was lost after rS1p stimulation. SARS-CoV2 spike protein induces pro-inflammatory responses in ECs via receptor-like function of ACE2. These molecular processes may contribute to vascular damage after COVID-19.
Abstract P434: Insights Into Blood Pressure Control In Primary Aldosteronism Using Physiological Modeling
Authors: Clemmer John S , Grim Clarence E , Pruett W. Andrew , Hester Robert L
Published: October 2023

For the last 20 years, we have observed that patients with drug resistant hypertension due to primary aldosteronism (PA) have significant lowering of blood pressure (BP) and improved hypokalemia when moving to a DASH dietary intervention (≤65 mEq/day Na
+
/ ≥120 mEq/day K
+
). However, current guidelines for PA treatment briefly recommend lowering Na
+
intake and make no specific mention of supplementing potassium intake or using DASH in PA. Because continuous monitoring of cardiovascular, neural, and hormonal changes during developing PA cannot be achieved experimentally, we used the mathematical model of human physiology, HumMod, to test the responses to a DASH diet during PA. Starting from baseline conditions with normal Na
+
/K
+
intake (150 and 50 mmol/day, respectively), we simulated an aldosterone secreting tumor to gradually increase plasma aldosterone to 20 ng/dL over 3 years. Baseline PA was associated with hypertension (150 mmHg systolic BP), very low endogenous renin and aldosterone secretion, hypokalemia (2.9 mmol/L K
+
), and tumor aldosterone secretion of 43 μg/day. We simulated a chronic change in dietary intake: 1)
Low Na
+
diet
- Na
+
intake fixed at 65 mmol/day, 2)

High K
+
diet

- 120 mmol/day K
+
intake, or 3)
DASH diet
- Low Na
+
intake and high K
+
intake. Lowering Na
+
intake without or with high K
+
intake (DASH) were associated with lower systolic BP (-12 mmHg and -25 mmHg, respectively) over the first 4 weeks and persisted for up to 2 years despite continued activation of the renin-angiotensin system and increasing tumor aldosterone. Simulating mineralocorticoid blockade (MCB) was associated with reductions in systolic BP (-17 mmHg) and correction of hypokalemia (4.0 mmol/L) but BP still remained uncontrolled (134/81 mmHg), partly due to the compensatory increase in renin secretion. However, adding low Na
+
or DASH to the MCB simulation were associated with greater antihypertensive effects (-26 and -30, mmHg respectively). These current simulations may help better understand the sequence of physiological events in PA and yield new insights into its diagnosis and management. The physiological effects of the DASH diet desperately need to be tested in patients with PA as the simulation suggests beneficial effects beyond current treatment guidelines.
National Trends in Mortality and Urgent Dialysis after Acute Hypertension in Japan From 2010 Through 2019
Authors: Matsuki Hisazumi , Genma Taku , Mandai Shintaro , Fujiki Tamami , Mori Yutaro , Ando Fumiaki , Mori Takayasu , Susa Koichiro , Iimori Soichiro , Naito Shotaro , Sohara Eisei , Rai Tatemitsu , Fushimi Kiyohide , Uchida Shinichi
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND:

Despite increasing incidences of hypertension, recent trends in mortality and urgent dialysis following acute hypertension (AHT) remain undetermined.

METHODS:

This retrospective observational cohort study evaluated 50 316 hospitalized AHT patients from 2010 to 2019, using an administrative claims database in Japan. We examined trends in incidence, urgent dialysis, mortality, and its risk factors using Poisson regression models. Using
International Classification of Disease and Related Health Problems, 10th Revision
codes, AHT was categorized into 5 spectrums: malignant hypertension (
n
=1792), hypertensive emergency (
n
=17 907), hypertensive urgency (
n
=1562), hypertensive encephalopathy (
n
=6593), and hypertensive heart failure (HHF;
n
=22 462).

RESULTS:

The median age of the patients was 76 years, and 54.9% were women. The total AHT incidence was 70 cases per 100 000 admission year. The absolute death rate increased from 1.83% (95% CI, 1.40–2.40) to 2.88% ([95% CI, 2.42–3.41]; Cochran-Armitage trend test,
P<
0.0001). Upward trends were observed in patients aged ≥80, with lean body mass index ≤18.4, and with HHF. Urgent dialysis rates increased from 1.52% (95% CI, 1.12–2.06) to 2.60% (2.17–3.1; Cochran-Armitage trend test;
P
=0.0071) in 48 235 patients, excluding maintenance dialysis patients. Older age, men, lean body mass, malignant hypertension, HHF, and underlying chronic kidney disease correlated with higher mortality risk; greater hospital volume correlated with lower mortality risk; and malignant hypertension, HHF, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and scleroderma correlated with a higher risk of urgent dialysis.

CONCLUSIONS:

Mortality and urgent dialysis rates following AHT have increased. Aging, complex comorbidities, and HHF-type AHT contributed to the rising trend of mortality.
The LEAP checklist for laboratory evaluation and analytical performance characteristics reporting of clinical measurement procedures
Authors: Greaves Ronda F , Theodorsson Elvar , Ho Chung Shun , Zakaria Rosita , Markus Corey , Tran Thi Chi Mai , Loh Tze Ping , Cooke Brian R
Published: October 2023

Reporting a measurement procedure and its analytical performance following method evaluation in a peer-reviewed journal is an important means for clinical laboratory practitioners to share their findings. It also represents an important source of evidence base to help others make informed decisions about their practice. At present, there are significant variations in the information reported in laboratory medicine journal publications describing the analytical performance of measurement procedures. These variations also challenge authors, readers, reviewers, and editors in deciding the quality of a submitted manuscript. The International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine Working Group on Method Evaluation Protocols (IFCC WG-MEP) developed a checklist and recommends its adoption to enable a consistent approach to reporting method evaluation and analytical performance characteristics of measurement procedures in laboratory medicine journals. It is envisioned that the Laboratory Evaluation and Analytical Performance Characteristics (LEAP) checklist will improve the standardisation of journal publications describing method evaluation and analytical performance characteristics, improving the quality of the evidence base that is relied upon by practitioners.
Association of smoking cigarettes, age, and sex with serum concentrations of olanzapine in patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Lovrić Mila , Šagud Marina , Ščavničar Andrijana , Živković Maja , Horvat Mihovil , Kadija Mate
Published: October 2023

IntroductionOlanzapine is an atypical antipsychotic drug which is effective in the treatment of schizophrenia. Cigarette smoking, age, and sex could be related to the pharmacokinetics and serum concentrations of olanzapine in patients with schizophrenia. The aim of the study was to examine whether there was a significant difference in the serum olanzapine concentrations with regard to the mentioned factors.
Materials and methodsA total of 58 outpatients with schizophrenia (37 smokers, 42 men, 35 older than 40 years) participated in the study. Blood was sampled in serum tubes just before taking the next dose of olanzapine. Olanzapine was extracted by liquid-liquid extraction and was measured by an in-house high-performance liquid chromatography method on Shimadzu Prominence HPLC System with diode array detector SPD-M20A (Shimadzu, Kyoto, Japan). The results were expressed as the ratio of concentration to the daily dose of olanzapine (C/D). Non-parametric statistical tests were used to analyse differences between variables.
ResultsThe median C/D of olanzapine (interquartile range) in smokers was 6.0 (3.4-10.2) nmol/L/mg and in non-smokers 10.1 (5.9-17.6) nmol/L/mg; P = 0.007. The median C/D of olanzapine in patients younger than 40 years was 5.6 (4.5-10.2) nmol/L/mg and in patients older than 40 years 8.4 (5.6-13.0) nmol/L/mg; P = 0.105. The median C/D of olanzapine in male patients was 6.6 (4.6-10.4) nmol/L/mg and in female patients 9.0 (5.9-15.3) nmol/L/mg; P = 0.064.
ConclusionsThe serum olanzapine concentration was significantly lower in smoking than in non-smoking patients with schizophrenia. No significant difference was demonstrated with regard to age and sex.
Negligible effect of vitamin D supplementation on exacerbation in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Zou Mi , Feng Jiangyi , Jiang Ting , Hua Ye
Published: October 2023

IntroductionThe focus of this meta-analysis was how vitamin D supplementation influences exacerbations in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and vitamin D deficiency (VDD).
Materials and methodsCochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, and PubMed databases have been systematically searched in an attempt to collect randomized controlled trials related to vitamin D supplementation in COPD patients with VDD published in English available by July 2022. Primary outcome indicators included the mean number of exacerbation and rate of exacerbation. Secondary outcome indicators included forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1), FEV1/forced vital capacity (FVC) ratio, and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentration.
ResultsFive studies involving 522 COPD patients with VDD (defined as 25(OH)D < 50 nmol/L) were included, among them 61 were severely deficient in vitamin D (25(OH)D < 25 nmol/L). The results showed that vitamin D supplementation did not decrease the mean number of exacerbation (standardized mean difference (SMD): - 0.10, 95% CI: - 0.29 to 0.09) and the rate of exacerbation (relative risk (RR): 0.89, 95% CI: 0.76 to 1.04, P = 0.179). Also, its effect on FEV1 (SMD: - 0.06, 95% CI: - 0.30 to 0.17) and FEV1/FVC (SMD: -0.10, 95% CI: - 0.48 to 0.27) remained negligible. However, it could increase the serum 25(OH)D concentration (SMD: 2.44, 95 CI%: 2.20 to 2.68, P < 0.001).
ConclusionsThe effects of vitamin D supplementation on decreasing exacerbation and improving pulmonary function were not significant.
Ismene, Interrupted
Authors: Kim Erynn
Published: October 2023

This article studies the usage of the particle μέν as a discourse marker in the speech of Antigone and of Ismene in Sophocles’ Antigone, focusing on the prologue and the final dialogue between the two sisters. By demonstrating how the discursive practices of the sisters reflect their respective styles of reasoning, particularly through their differing usages of the particle μέν, this article explores how the construction of μέν solitarium can reveal what is left unsaid in order to show how the sisters engage in a coded conversation before Creon in their final dialogue, ultimately working in solidarity to resolve their fates, however tragic.
Unravelling the diversity of Scalibregma Rathke, 1843 (Annelida: ‘Polychaeta’: Scalibregmatidae) from southeast Brazilian coast
Authors: MENDES SAMUEL LUCAS DA SILVA DELGADO , RIZZO ALEXANDRA E. , PAIVA PAULO CESAR DE
Published: October 2023

Scalibregmatidae Malmgren, 1867 is a relatively small family of annelids, with only two taxa reported to Brazil. In this work, we expand the scientific knowledge of this group by presenting two new Scalibregma Rathke, 1843 species. The new species S. lanai sp. nov. and S. cinthyae sp. nov. were collected during an expedition to the Campos and Santos oceanographic basins. Scalibregma cinthyae sp. nov. is unique among its congeners by the presence of two rows of paired lobes on the mouth’s upper and lower lips, whereas S. lanai sp. nov. is unique among its congeners by the presence of two rows of paired lobes on the mouth’s lower lip, branchiae from chaetigers 3–5, and lyrate chaetae with equal tynes. We provide an identification key to all Scalibregma species.
What about Model Data? Best Practices for Preservation and Replicability
Authors: Schuster Douglas C. , Mayernik Matthew S. , Mullendore Gretchen L. , Marquis Jared W.
Published: October 2023

It has become common for researchers to make their data publicly available to meet the data management and accessibility requirements of funding agencies and scientific publishers. However, many researchers face the challenge of determining what data to preserve and share and where to preserve and share those data. This can be especially challenging for those who run dynamical models, which can produce complex, voluminous data outputs, and have not considered what outputs may need to be preserved and shared as part of the project design. This manuscript presents findings from the NSF EarthCube Research Coordination Network project titled “What About Model Data? Best Practices for Preservation and Replicability” (https://modeldatarcn.github.io/). These findings suggest that if the primary goal of sharing data are to communicate knowledge, most simulation-based research projects only need to preserve and share selected model outputs along with the full simulation experiment workflow. One major result of this project has been the development of a rubric, designed to provide guidance for making decisions on what simulation output needs to be preserved and shared in trusted community repositories to achieve the goal of knowledge communication. This rubric, along with use cases for selected projects, provide scientists with guidance on data accessibility requirements in the planning process of research, allowing for more thoughtful development of data management plans and funding requests. Additionally, this rubric can be referred to by publishers for what is expected in terms of data accessibility for publication.
Transformative Ecological and Human Impacts from Diminished Sea Ice in the Northern Bering Sea
Authors: Overland James E. , Siddon Elizabeth , Sheffield Gay , Ballinger Thomas J. , Szuwalski Cody
Published: October 2023

Our goal is to tie climate-scale meteorology to regional physics and ecosystem changes and demonstrate a few resulting impacts to which regional peoples are having to respond in the Alaskan Bering Strait region. The sea ice loss events in the winters of 2017/18 and 2018/19 initiated a series of marine environmental, ecological, and industrial changes through a chain of connected events from jet-stream meanders, storms, southerly winds, warmer sea temperatures, and minimum sea ice cover. Resulting impacts continue as coastal communities respond to ongoing nutritional, cultural, and economic challenges. Global warming potentially initiated these events through a weakened atmospheric Arctic Front. Ecological shifts included a transition/reorganization of the Bering Strait regional marine ecosystem. Subsequent changes included shifts in zooplankton species, increases in large-bodied, predatory fish species moving northward, an ice seal unusual mortality event, and seven consecutive years of multispecies seabird die-offs. These changes in the marine ecosystem create a serious food security concern. Ongoing impacts include large, toxic harmful algal blooms and coastal erosion. Recent changes to the maritime industries of the transboundary waters of the Bering Strait include increased industrial ship traffic, planned development of the Port of Nome, and northward proximity of foreign fishing activity. Projections for the next decades are for an increasing frequency of low sea ice years and continuing ecosystem and industrial transitions that contribute to increasing economic and food security concerns for the 16 coastal communities that compose the Bering Strait region.

Significance Statement

Extreme events in the atmosphere/oceans and resultant record sea ice minimums in 2018 and 2019 were manifested in marine ecosystem transitions and maritime industry impacts. This led to ongoing concerns over the food safety and food security of marine resources essential to the nutritional, cultural, and economic well-being of Alaskan coastal communities of the Bering Strait region. Persistent weakening of the Arctic Front may signal an increased frequency of low sea ice events into the next decades.
Integrating Place and Sense of Place into Geovisualizations of Hurricane Storm Surge Risk
Authors: Wilhelmi O. V. , Chamberlain B. C. , Morss R. E. , Demuth J. L. , Walpole H. D. , Boehnert J. , Gambill J. M. , Lazrus H. , Dobson J. G.
Published: October 2023

Geovisualizations play a central role in communicating hurricane storm surge risks to the public by connecting information about the hazard to a place. Meanwhile, people connect to places through meaning, functions, and emotional bond, known as a sense of place. The mixed-method approach presented in this paper focuses on the intersection of sense of place, geovisualization, and risk communication. We explored place meaning, scale of place, and place attachment in the coastal communities in Georgia and South Carolina. We conducted cognitive mapping focus groups and developed a series of geovisualizations of storm surge risk with varying representations of place. We then investigated people’s ability to connect visual storm surge information to a place and understand their risk by testing these geovisualizations in a large population survey (n = 1442). We found that a 2D regional-scale map displayed together with a 3D abstract representation of a neighborhood was the most helpful in enabling people to relate to a place, quickly make sense of the information, and understand the risk. Our results showed that while the geovisualizations of storm surge risk can be effective generally, they were less effective in several important and vulnerable groups. We found substantial impacts of race, income, map-reading ability, place attachment, and scale of place on how people connected the storm surge risk shown in the visual to a place. These findings have implications for future research and for considering the way weather forecasters and emergency managers communicate storm surge information with diverse audiences using geovisualizations.

Significance Statement

Weather forecasters and emergency managers often use geovisualizations to communicate hurricane storm surge risks and threats to the public. Despite the important role that geovisualizations play, few studies have empirically investigated their effectiveness in hazardous weather risk communication. With the overarching goal of understanding how geovisualizations enable coastal residents to understand and respond to risk, we use an interdisciplinary approach to create new knowledge about the effectiveness of geovisualizations in storm surge risk communication. Our results show substantial impacts of sociodemographic factors across many of the measures that enable people to connect to a place through visualizations. These findings have implications for communicating geospatially varying risk to diverse audiences.
Challenges and Opportunities to the Flow of Communication: Online Focus Groups with Parents of Young Children, Professional Caregivers, and Intermediaries
Authors: Stehr Paula , Reifegerste Doreen , Rossmann Constanze , Lindemann Ann-Kathrin , Schulze Annett
Published: October 2023

To explore the information behavior in the context of child injury prevention, we conducted online focus groups with parents, professional caregivers, and intermediaries as part of a larger project. In this paper, we discuss our qualitative interview design: audiovisual, synchronous online focus groups. To do so, we analyze a crucial methodological issue of focus group interviews: the flow of communication. In our study, three main topics emerged that influenced the flow of communication in online focus groups: (a) communication mode(s), (b) (co-)moderation, and (c) distractions and interjections of other people. We conclude that depending on the research topic and target group, audio-only communication may be advantageous compared to audiovisual communication because lay people may disclose more on sensitive topics. Moreover, the considerate composition of the focus group is essential for participants’ interaction, so that all participants feel they have an important part to contribute to the discussion. Skilled co-moderation is crucial to successfully integrating all participants and evolving communication threads, and dealing with disruptions.
Twenty-Five Year Multicentre Experience of Explantation of Infected Abdominal Aortic Endografts
Authors: Perini Paolo , Gargiulo Mauro , Silingardi Roberto , Bonardelli Stefano , Bellosta Raffaello , Piffaretti Gabriele , Michelagnoli Stefano , Ferrari Mauro , Turicchia Giorgio Ubaldo , Freyrie Antonio ,   On Behalf of the LOCOS-1 Investigators (Late Open COnversions and Semiconversions-1 Investigators), Fornasari Anna , Mariani Erica , Faggioli GianLuca , Spath Paolo , Migliari Mattia , Gennai Stefano , Paro Barbara , Baggi Paolo , Attisani Luca , Pegorer Matteo , Franchin Marco , Mauri Francesca , Chisci Emiliano , Troisi Nicola , Paciaroni Elisa , Fanelli Mara
Published: October 2023

We report a multicenter experience of open conversions (OC) for aortic endograft infections (AEI). We retrospectively analyzed all patients who underwent OC for AEI after endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), from 1997 to 2021 in 12 Italian centers. The endpoints were as follows: mortality (30-days, in-hospital), major postoperative complications. Follow-up data included: survival, aortic-related complications, infection persistence or reoccurrence. Fifty-eight patients (mean age: 73.8 ± 6.6 years) were included. Median time from EVAR to OC was 14 months (interquartile range 7–45). Thirty-five patients (60.3%) were symptomatic at presentation. Aortic reconstruction was anatomic in 32 patients (55.2%), extra-anatomic in 26 (44.8%). Thirty-day mortality was 31% (18/58). Six additional patients died after 30 days during the same hospitalization (in-hospital mortality: 41.4%). Most common post-operative complications included respiratory failure (38.6%) and renal insufficiency (35.1%). During 28.1 ± 4 months follow-up, 4 aneurysm-related deaths were recorded. Infection re-occurred in 29.4% of the patients. Estimated survival was 50% at 1 year, and 30% at 5 years, and was significantly lower for patients who underwent extra-anatomic reconstructions (37 vs 61% at 1 year, 16 vs 45% at 5 years; log-rank P = .021). OC for AEI is associated with high early mortality. The poor mid-term survival is influenced by aortic complications and infection re-occurrence.
Clinical Action Research and Its Radically Reflexive Way: Dialogical Encounters to Face Current Organizational Needs
Authors: Galuppo Laura , Gorli Mara , Ripamonti Silvio Carlo
Published: October 2023

The paper presents a clinical and radically reflexive approach to action research, capable of nurturing caring relationships and renewed organizational wealth. These outcomes are achieved by creating space for research-oriented, in-the-moment, constitutive, and collective reflexivity. The paper discusses a framework for understanding a clinical and radically reflexive approach to action research. Second, the radically reflexive perspective is illustrated via a case study. Finally, the specific conditions and limits of such an approach are discussed. The radically reflexive perspective we present hopes to return researchers and participants to the center as authors of renewed organizational landscapes, thanks to their collective agency and their capacity to resist the taken-for-granted cultural and social structures whose “sickness” often has a toxic and unconscious impact on people lives. The paper, therefore, contributes to an understanding of radical reflexivity in action research and its implications for productive dialogue between other clinical, dialogical, and reflexive action-research approaches.
The association between social support with compliance of IFA supplement intake among adolescent girls in Sidoarjo, Indonesia
Authors: Silitonga Hanna Tabita Hasianna , Salim Lutfi Agus , Nurmala Ira , Wartiningsih Minarni , Raga Angelarita Djami
Published: October 2023

Background: Anemia is a severe nutritional issue affecting people worldwide, including in Indonesia. One of the government's initiatives to alleviate anemia afflicting adolescent Indonesian girls is iron and folic acid supplementation (IFAS). However, this program has shown to be ineffective, which may be due to poor compliance of IFAS. Aim: This study aimed to identify the association of social support (sources of information and reminders) with compliance of IFA supplement intake among adolescent girls in Sidoarjo, Indonesia. Methods: This research was an observational analytic study with the cross-sectional method in three schools in Sidoarjo, Indonesia. A total of 202 high school adolescent girls were randomly selected. Bivariate statistics with the Spearman rank test determined associations and the strength of associations at a significant threshold of p < 0.05. Results: IFA compliance was low (11.4%). However, there was a significant association between the number of sources of information ( r = 0.175, p = 0.013) and the number of reminders ( r = 0.158; p = 0.025) with compliance of high school adolescent girls to consume IFA supplements regularly in Sidoarjo, Indonesia. Meanwhile, age did not significantly affect compliance of regular IFA supplement consumption. Conclusions: The compliance level was positively related to the number of sources of information and the number of reminders for taking IFA supplements among high school adolescent girls. Involvement from social environments such as teachers, parents, and health workers as a source of information and reminders can help improve high school adolescent girls’ compliance.
Intra-articular autologous conditioned serum and triamcinolone injections in patients with knee osteoarthritis: a controlled, randomized, double-blind study
Authors: Damjanov Nemanja , Zekovic Ana
Published: October 2023

Objective

This study was performed to assess the impact of autologous conditioned serum (ACS) when added to preceding intra-articular glucocorticoid therapy on pain, function, and quality of life outcomes over 24 weeks.

Methods

In this single-center, randomized controlled trial involving 40 patients with advanced knee osteoarthritis (Kellgren–Lawrence grades III and IV), ACS or saline placebo was injected after 40 mg triamcinolone acetonide (TA) intra-articular injection. Numerical rating scale (NRS) pain scores and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) assessments were conducted at baseline and at weeks 3, 6, 12, and 24. The primary endpoint was the change in KOOS Pain at 24 weeks. Patient safety events were also monitored.

Results

At week 24, TA + ACS significantly improved KOOS Pain, Symptoms, Activities of Daily Living, Quality of Life, and KOOS Sport scores. TA + ACS also outperformed TA + placebo in NRS pain scores (average and maximum intensity) at week 24 and NRS pain score (at rest) at weeks 12 and 24. The TA injection followed by ACS or placebo was well-tolerated.

Conclusion

ACS adds long-term pain relief and functional improvement to the short-term pain relief provided by glucocorticoids.
Youtube is an unreliable source of information about delayed ejaculation treatment
Authors: Demirci Aykut , Başar Halil
Published: October 2023

Background:

Social platforms such as YouTube have become sources of information about diseases as they can be easily and rapidly accessed. However, this also has the risk of ill-intentioned content and misleading information.

Objective:

To evaluate the reliability of YouTube video content about delayed ejaculation treatment.

Material and methods:

YouTube videos were searched using the terms “delayed ejaculation,” “retarded ejaculation,” “inhibited ejaculation,” and “anejaculation.” Videos were excluded if they were not in English, were not related to the subject, or did not have audio and visual content. In accordance with the scientifically proven accurate information, the videos were separated as reliable (Group 2, n: 112) and unreliable videos (Group 1, n: 94). The groups were compared in respect of the video characteristics, and the scores obtained in the DISCERN-5, Global Quality Scale, the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool Audiovisual, and the Journal of the American Medical Association scales. Intraclass correlation test was used to evaluate the level of agreement between the two investigators.

Results:

Of the 1200 videos, 994 were excluded. No significant difference was determined between the Group 1 and Group 2 in respect of the median number of views [1672 (4555) vs 1547 (28,559), p = 0.63] and likes [10 (42) vs 17 (255), p = 0.07]. There was a greater number of videos in the Group 2 (54.4%) and the points obtained on the scoring scales were significantly higher than the Group 1 ( p < 0.001). The videos originating from universities/professional organizations/non-profit physician/physician group were comprised the majority of the reliable videos (55.3%) and the unreliable videos had more content related to treatment (71.4%) ( p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Although there was a greater number of reliable videos related to the problem of delayed ejaculation, the content could be misleading and should be avoided by patients seeking treatment without consulting a physician.
The Dialectical Sociology of Michel Freitag and the Critique of Communication Society
Authors: Leduc Claude , Ouellet Maxime , Mondoux André
Published: October 2023

Michel Freitag developed a ground-breaking sociological theory synthesizing the thought of sociology’s founders into the form of a dialectical sociology that conceives of the symbolic as ontological to social reality. After outlining his conceptualization of the historical evolution of society through its ‘modes of reproduction’, we will see how his analysis of contemporary societal transformations rests on a critical theory of communication and technology that, while entering a dialogue with the works of the Frankfurt school, especially those of Habermas, seeks to overcome their inherent contradictions. According to Freitag, the development of capitalist globalization alters the very substance of society as it tends to morph itself into a self-regulating cybernetic system. His sociology allows us to apprehend phenomena tied to the development of contemporary digital technologies such as the drive towards a new form of algorithmic governmentality fueled by digital oligopolies that increasingly dominate globalized capitalism, the rise of fake news in the era of post-truth and the transformation of subjectivity. Finally, his critique enables potent reflection on the dialectical possibilities of overcoming the dynamics of contemporary alienation.
A theoretical model for power generation via liquid crystal elastomers
Authors: Mihai L Angela
Published: October 2023

Motivated by the need for new materials and green energy production and conversion processes, a class of mathematical models for liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) integrated within a theoretical charge pump electrical circuit is considered. The charge pump harnesses the chemical and mechanical properties of LCEs transitioning from the nematic to isotropic phase when illuminated or heated to generate higher voltage from a lower voltage supplied by a battery. For the material constitutive model, purely elastic and neoclassical-type strain energy densities applicable to a wide range of monodomain nematic elastomers are combined, while elastic and photothermal responses are decoupled to make the investigation analytically tractable. By varying the model parameters of the elastic and neoclassical terms, it is found that LCEs are more effective than rubber when used as dielectric material within a charge pump capacitor.
Plane deformations of the Varga material
Authors: Arrigo Daniel J , Chism Travis C
Published: October 2023

The governing equations for plane deformations of isotropic incompressible hyperelastic materials are highly nonlinear, and consequently, very few exact solutions are known. As far as we are aware, the Varga material is the only material in which results of any generality are known. In this paper, we show that for the Varga material, the full governing equations are in fact linearizable.