bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quality of Life Outcomes With a Risk-Based Precision Testing Strategy Versus Usual Testing in Stable Patients With Suspected Coronary Disease: Results From the PRECISE Randomized Trial
Authors: Mark Daniel B. , Li Yanhong , Nanna Michael G. , Kelsey Michelle D. , Daniels Melanie R. , Rogers Campbell , Patel Manesh R. , Baloch Khaula N. , Chow Benjamin J.W. , Anstrom Kevin J. , Vemulapalli Sreekanth , Weir-McCall Jonathan R. , Stone Gregg W. , Chew Derek S. , Douglas Pamela S. ,   on behalf of the PRECISE Investigators
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND:

The PRECISE (Prospective Randomized Trial of the Optimal Evaluation of Cardiac Symptoms and Revascularization) trial compared an investigational precision diagnostic testing strategy (n=1057) with usual testing (n=1046) in patients with stable chest pain and suspected coronary artery disease. Quality of life (QOL) outcomes were a prespecified secondary end point.

METHODS:

We assessed QOL by structured interviews in all trial participants at baseline and 45 days, 6 months, and 12 months postrandomization. QOL assessments included angina-related QOL (19-item Seattle Angina Questionnaire [SAQ-19]), generic health status (EQ-5D), and a 4-item care satisfaction survey (at 45 days only). The prespecified primary comparison was the 6-month SAQ Summary score outcomes (scale, 0 to 100; higher scores indicate greater health status). QOL data collection rates were high, with 99% complete baseline SAQ scores and 86.5% complete at the 6-month primary comparison follow-up. All comparisons were made as randomized.

RESULTS:

At baseline, mean SAQ Summary scores were 70.9 in the Precision Strategy group (n=1050) and 70.4 in the Usual Testing group (n=1042). By 6 months, mean SAQ Summary scores had improved to 89.9 in the Precision Strategy group and 89.2 in the Usual Testing group, with a mean adjusted difference of 0.8 (95% CI, −0.3 to 2.0). The SAQ component scores showed similar improvement from baseline in both groups and no statistically significant or clinically meaningful differences between the 2 groups at any follow-up time point. By 6 months, 66% of patients in both groups were chest pain-free. EQ-5D visual analog scores also improved from baseline and showed no difference between groups during follow-up. Care satisfaction scores were high and similar at 45 days.

CONCLUSIONS:

In stable patients with symptoms suggesting coronary artery disease, angina-related and overall QOL improved substantially over the initial 6 months independent of the testing strategy assigned.

REGISTRATION:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT03702244.
Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Population Study to Determine the Biologic Sex Ratio in Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Bergan Natalie , Prachee Ishika , Curran Lara , McGurk Kathryn A. , Lu Chang , de Marvao Antonio , Bai Wenjia , Halliday Brian P. , Gregson John , O’Regan Declan P. , Ware James S. , Tayal Upasana
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND:

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) appears to be diagnosed twice as often in male than in female patients. This could be attributed to underdiagnosis in female patients or sex differences in susceptibility. Up to 30% of cases have an autosomal dominant monogenic cause, where equal sex prevalence would be expected. The aim of this systematic review, meta-analysis, and population study was to assess the sex ratio in patients with DCM, stratified by genetic status, and evaluate whether this is influenced by diagnostic bias.

METHODS:

A literature search identified DCM patient cohorts with discernible sex ratios. Exclusion criteria were studies with a small (n<100), pediatric, or peripartum population. Meta-analysis and metaregression compared the proportion of female participants for an overall DCM cohort and the following subtypes: all genetic DCM, individual selected DCM genes (
TTN
and
LMNA
), and gene-elusive DCM. Population DCM sex ratios generated from diagnostic codes were also compared with those from sex-specific means using the UK Biobank imaging cohort; this established ICD coded, novel imaging-first, and genotype first determined sex ratios.

RESULTS:

A total of 99 studies, with 37 525 participants, were included. The overall DCM cohort had a 0.30 female proportion (95% CI, 0.28–0.32), corresponding to a male:female ratio (M:F) of 2.38:1. This was similar to patients with an identified DCM variant (0.31 [95% CI, 0.26–0.36]; M:F 2.22:1;
P
=0.56). There was also no significant difference when compared with patients with gene-elusive DCM (0.30 [95% CI, 0.24–0.37]; M:F 2.29:1;
P
=0.81). Furthermore, the ratio within autosomal dominant gene variants was not significantly different for
TTN
(0.28 [95% CI, 0.22–0.36]; M:F 2.51:1;
P
=0.82) or
LMNA
(0.35 [95% CI, 0.27–0.44]; M:F 1.84:1;
P
=0.41). Overall, the sex ratio for DCM in people with disease attributed to autosomal dominant gene variants was similar to the all-cause group (0.34 [95% CI, 0.28–0.40]; M:F 1.98:1;
P
=0.19). In the UK Biobank (n=47 549), DCM defined by International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision, coding had 4.5:1 M:F. However, implementing sex-specific imaging-first and genotype-first diagnostic approaches changed this to 1.7:1 and 2.3:1, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS:

This study demonstrates that DCM is twice as prevalent in male patients. This was partially mitigated by implementing sex-specific DCM diagnostic criteria. The persistent male excess in genotype-positive patients with an equally prevalent genetic risk suggests additional genetic or environmental drivers for sex-biased penetrance.

REGISTRATION:

URL:
https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero
; Unique identifier: CRD42023451944.
Cerebral Microhemorrhages in Children With Congenital Heart Disease: Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Association With Neurodevelopmental Outcomes
Authors: Andersen Kristen N. , Yao Sicong , White Brian R. , Jacobwitz Marin , Breimann Jake , Jahnavi Jharna , Schmidt Alexander , Baker Wesley B. , Ko Tiffany S. , Gaynor J. William , Vossough Arastoo , Xiao Rui , Licht Daniel J. , Shih Evelyn K.
Published: February 2025

Background

Infants with congenital heart disease require early lifesaving heart surgery, which increases risk for brain injury and neurodevelopmental delay. Cerebral microhemorrhages (CMH) are frequently seen after surgery, but whether they are benign or constitute injury is unknown.

Methods and Results

One hundred ninety‐two infants with congenital heart disease undergoing cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass were evaluated with pre‐ (n=183) and/or postoperative (n=162) magnetic resonance imaging. Perioperative risk factors for CMH and neurodevelopmental outcomes were analyzed using linear regression. Eighteen‐month neurodevelopmental outcomes were assessed in a subset of patients (n=82). The most common congenital heart disease subtypes were hypoplastic left heart syndrome (37%) and transposition of the great arteries (33%). Forty‐two infants (23%) had CMH present on magnetic resonance imaging presurgery and 137 infants (85%) postsurgery. We found no significant risk factors for preoperative CMH. In multivariable analysis, neurodevelopmental duration (
P
<0.0001), use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support (
P
<0.0005), postoperative seizure(s) (
P
=0.02), and lower birth weight (
P
=0.03) were associated with new or worsened CMH postoperatively. A higher CMH number was associated with lower motor scores (
P
=0.01) at 18 months.

Conclusions

CMH are common imaging findings in infants with congenital heart disease, particularly after cardiopulmonary bypass conferring adverse impact on neurodevelopmental outcomes at 18 months. Longer duration of cardiopulmonary bypass and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation use demonstrated greatest risk for developing CMH. However, the presence of CMH on preoperative scans indicates yet unidentified nonperioperative risk factors. Neuroprotective strategies to mitigate CMH risk may improve neurodevelopmental outcomes in this vulnerable population.
Cerebral Blood Flow in Orthostatic Intolerance
Authors: Khan Muhammad Shahzeb , Miller Amanda J. , Ejaz Arooba , Molinger Jeroen , Goyal Parag , MacLeod David B. , Swavely Ashley , Wilson Elyse , Pergola Meghan , Tandri Harikrishna , Mills Camille Frazier , Raj Satish R , Fudim Marat
Published: February 2025

Cerebral blood flow (CBF) is vital for delivering oxygen and nutrients to the brain. Many forms of orthostatic intolerance (OI) involve impaired regulation of CBF in the upright posture, which results in disabling symptoms that decrease quality of life. Because CBF is not easy to measure, rises in heart rate or drops in blood pressure are used as proxies for abnormal CBF. These result in diagnoses such as postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome and orthostatic hypotension. However, in many other OI syndromes such as myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome and long COVID, heart rate and blood pressure are frequently normal despite significant drops in CBF. This often leads to the incorrect conclusion that there is nothing hemodynamically abnormal in these patients and thus no explanation or treatment is needed. There is a need to measure CBF, as orthostatic hypoperfusion is the shared pathophysiology for all forms of OI. In this review, we examine the literature studying CBF dysfunction in various syndromes with OI and evaluate methods of measuring CBF including transcranial Doppler ultrasound, extracranial cerebral blood flow ultrasound, near infrared spectroscopy, and wearable devices.
Prior Anticoagulation and Risk of Hemorrhagic Transformation in Acute Stroke: A Post Hoc Analysis of the PRODAST Study
Authors: Grosse Gerrit M. , Hüsing Anika , Stang Andreas , Kuklik Nils , Brinkmann Marcus , Grond Martin , Rollnik Jens D. , Marquardt Lars , Kraft Andrea , Schlemm Eckhard , Eggers Carsten , Eschenfelder Christoph C. , Weimar Christian , Diener Hans‐Christoph
Published: February 2025

Background

Oral anticoagulation is highly effective in preventing ischemic events in patients with atrial fibrillation. Still, a considerable number of patients have an acute ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack despite anticoagulation. In this study, we investigated the association of prior antithrombotic regimens with stroke severity, volume, and hemorrhagic transformation.

Methods and Results

This is a post hoc analysis of the prospective, multicenter, observational PRODAST (Prospective Record of the Use of Dabigatran in Patients With Acute Stroke or TIA) study, which was conducted in 86 stroke units in Germany between July 2015 and November 2020. In 9030 patients with atrial fibrillation who had an acute ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack within 7 days before enrollment, we analyzed the association of anticoagulants in comparison to lack of prevalent antithrombotic treatment with clinical stroke severity, infarct size, and risk for hemorrhagic transformation. A total of 4479 patients had prior anticoagulation at the time of index event. After adjustment for confounders (arterial hypertension, diabetes, heart failure, age, and sex), patients with prior anticoagulation had less severe strokes (−2.5 National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale points [95% CI, −2.8 to −2.2]), smaller infarct sizes (−23 mL [95% CI, −44 mL to −2 mL], n=4041), and reduced odds for hemorrhagic transformation (5% versus 10%; odds ratio, 0.48 [95% CI, 0.40–0.57]) compared with patients without antithrombotic treatment. These findings were confirmed using sensitivity analyses accounting for thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy, as well as timing of brain imaging. Antiplatelet therapy had hardly any association with the end points compared with no antithrombotic pretreatment.

Conclusions

Prior anticoagulation was not only associated with less severe stroke and smaller infarct size but also with a reduced risk of hemorrhagic transformation compared with no antithrombotic pretreatment.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT02507856.
Development and Validation of Risk Stratification for Heart Failure After Acute Coronary Syndrome Based on Dynamic S100A8/A9 Levels
Authors: Ma Jie , Ma Ke , Chen Jing , Yang Xinying , Gao Fei , Gao Hai , Zhang Hui , Ma Xin‐Liang , Du Jie , Li Ping , Li Yulin
Published: February 2025

Background

The early assessment of heart failure (HF) risk in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) can help reduce mortality. S100A8/A9 is not only rapidly released after myocardial ischemia, but is also involved in reperfusion injury, which is an important predictor of HF after ACS. We attempted to construct a reliable HF risk stratification tool for evaluating patients with ACS after reperfusion therapy based on S100A8/A9 dynamic changes.

Methods and Results

This prospective study included 3 independent cohorts of patients with ACS who received reperfusion therapy. The discovery cohort was divided into 2 subgroups: the longitudinal subgroup (n=264) with serum S100A8/A9 levels measured at admission and on days 1, 2, 3, and 4 postadmission, respectively, and the 2‐point subgroup (n=798) with S100A8/A9 levels measured at admission and on day 1 postadmission, respectively. Validation cohorts 1 (n=1399) and 2 (n=1183) both had S100A8/A9 levels measured on day 1 postadmission. HF events included in‐hospital HF events after the initial presentation and long‐term HF events after discharge. The median follow‐up for the discovery cohort, validation cohort 1, and validation cohort 2 was 4.2, 2.6, and 1.8 years, respectively. In the discovery cohort, S100A8/A9's predictive ability at day 1 surpassed other time points. Through the S100A8/A9‐guided risk stratification, patients deemed high risk (>7900 ng/mL) exhibited a higher 1‐year HF event rate (46% versus 2%, 38% versus 5%) than patients at low risk (<2100 ng/mL) in both validation cohorts. Among patients without left ventricular dysfunction after ACS, β‐blocker therapy correlated with reduced 1‐year HF events in intermediate‐to‐ high‐risk patients but not in low‐risk patients.

Conclusions

S100A8/A9 levels on day 1 accurately classified patients at varying risks of HF, serving as a robust tool for HF risk prediction and treatment guidance.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT03752515.
Phenotypic Trajectories From Acute to Stable Phase in Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction: Insights From the PURSUIT‐HFpEF Study
Authors: Matsuoka Yuki , Sotomi Yohei , Nakatani Daisaku , Okada Katsuki , Sunaga Akihiro , Kida Hirota , Sato Taiki , Sakamoto Daisuke , Kitamura Tetsuhisa , Komukai Sho , Seo Masahiro , Yano Masamichi , Hayashi Takaharu , Nakagawa Akito , Nakagawa Yusuke , Tamaki Shunsuke , Yasumura Yoshio , Yamada Takahisa , Hikoso Shungo , Sakata Yasushi ,   the OCVC‐Heart Failure Investigators
Published: February 2025

Background

Using machine learning for the phenotyping of patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) has emerged as a novel approach to understanding the pathophysiology and stratifying the patients. Our objective is to perform phenotyping of patients with HFpEF in stable phase and to investigate the phenotypic trajectory from acute worsening phase to stable phase.

Methods

The present study is a post hoc analysis of the PURSUIT‐HFpEF (Prospective Multicenter Observational Study of Patients with Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction) study. We applied the latent class analysis to the discharge data of patients hospitalized for acute decompensated heart failure.

Results

We finally included patient data of 1100 cases and 63 features in the latent class analysis. All patients were subclassified into 5 phenogroups as follows: Phenotype 1, characterized by better renal function and lower NT‐proBNP (N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide) level [N=325 (29.5%)]; Phenotype 2, higher blood pressure, sinus rhythm, and poor renal function. [N=242 (22.0%)]; Phenotype 3, higher prevalence of atrial fibrillation, higher tricuspid pressure gradient, and lower tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion [N=214 (19.5%)]; Phenotype 4, higher C‐reactive protein level and higher tricuspid pressure gradient [N=245 (22.3%)]; and Phenotype 5, poor nutritional status, poor renal function, and higher NT‐proBNP level [N=74 (6.7%)]. A particular phenotype observed at the time of discharge was correlated with a distinct phenotype of acute worsening.

Conclusions

We identified 5 distinct stable phase phenotypes of the patients with HFpEF from the data at discharge. A specific phenotype at discharge was associated with a particular phenotype of acute worsening. This grouping can be a basis for future precision medicine of patients with HFpEF.

Registration

URL:
https://www.umin.ac.jp/ctr/
; Unique identifier: UMIN000021831.
Comparative Effectiveness of Rosuvastatin Versus Atorvastatin in Acute Ischemic Stroke Treatment
Authors: Kim Joon‐Tae , Lee Ji Sung , Kim Hyunsoo , Kim Beom Joon , Kang Jihoon , Lee Keon‐Joo , Park Jong‐Moo , Kang Kyusik , Lee Soo Joo , Kim Jae Guk , Cha Jae‐Kwan , Kim Dae‐Hyun , Park Tai Hwan , Lee Kyungbok , Lee Jun , Hong Keun‐Sik , Cho Yong‐Jin , Park Hong‐Kyun , Lee Byung‐Chul , Yu Kyung‐Ho , Oh Mi Sun , Kim Dong‐Eog , Choi Jay Chol , Kwon Jee‐Hyun , Kim Wook‐Joo , Shin Dong‐Ick , Yum Kyu Sun , Sohn Sung Il , Hong Jeong‐Ho , Lee Sang‐Hwa , Park Man‐Seok , Ryu Wi‐Sun , Park Kwang‐Yeol , Lee Juneyoung , Saver Jeffrey L. , Bae Hee‐Joon
Published: February 2025

Background

Research specifically addressing the efficacy of rosuvastatin versus atorvastatin in patients with ischemic stroke is insufficient. Using a large stroke registry, we investigated whether 2 commonly used statins, rosuvastatin and atorvastatin, differ in their effectiveness in reducing the risk of vascular events in patients with acute ischemic stroke.

Methods

We analyzed data from a nationwide stroke registry in South Korea between January 2011 and April 2022. Patients with acute ischemic stroke within 7 days of onset who were prescribed either atorvastatin or rosuvastatin at discharge were included. The primary outcome was a composite of recurrent stroke (either hemorrhagic or ischemic), myocardial infarction, and all‐cause mortality within 1 year.

Results

A total of 43 512 patients (age, 69.2±12.5 years; male, 59.8%) were analyzed in this study. Atorvastatin was used in 84.8% (n=36 903), and rosuvastatin was used in 15.2% (n=6609). The 1‐year cumulative event rate of the composite of recurrent stroke, myocardial infarction, and all‐cause mortality was significantly lower in the rosuvastatin group than in the atorvastatin group (9.7% [95% CI, 9.0–10.5] versus 10.7% [95% CI, 10.4–11.0];
P
=0.049). Cox proportional hazards analysis revealed that rosuvastatin, compared with atorvastatin, was significantly associated with less risk of 1‐year composite of recurrent stroke, myocardial infarction, and all‐cause mortality, with an absolute risk reduction of 1% [95% CI, −1.8 to −0.2] and a relative risk reduction of 11% (hazard ratio, 0.89 [95% CI, 0.82–0.97]). However, there were discrepancies in the statistical significance of the results between the propensity score matching and stabilized inverse probability of treatment weighting analysis.

Conclusions

The results of this analysis of a large cohort of patients with ischemic stroke suggested that, compared with atorvastatin, rosuvastatin was significantly associated with a reduced risk of a 1‐year composite of recurrent stroke, myocardial infarction, and all‐cause mortality in patients with acute ischemic stroke. However, in real clinical practice, rosuvastatin is used less than one‐fifth as frequently as atorvastatin in patients with acute ischemic stroke. This study serves as a hypothesis‐generating function.
Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events in Primary Aldosteronism After Adrenalectomy or Mineralocorticoid Receptor Antagonist Treatment: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Huang Chien‐Wei , Huang Tse‐Ying , Yang Ya‐Fei , Chang Li‐Yang , Tu Yu‐Kang , Wu Vin‐Cent , Chen Jui‐Yi
Published: February 2025

Background

The object of this study was to investigate the incidence rate of major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE) among patients with primary aldosteronism (PA) after adrenalectomy or mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (MRA) treatment.

Methods and Results

A systematic review and meta‐analysis was conducted by searching PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CINAHL, and Scopus through April 15, 2024. Studies reporting the MACE incidence rate in patients with PA after treatment were included. We adapted the random‐effects model and performed subgroup and meta‐regression analyses. A total of 20 studies involving 16 927 patients with PA were included. There were 5939 patients with PA who underwent adrenalectomy. A total of 10 474 patients received MRA treatment. Additionally, 546 patients received either adrenalectomy or MRA treatment. The pooled incidence rate of MACE among patients with PA after treatment was 2.20/100 patient‐years (95% CI, 1.70–2.80), higher than that of non‐PA hypertension (1.20/100 patient‐years [95% CI, 0.70–2.10]). Patients with PA after adrenalectomy had a lower MACE incidence rate (2.00/100 patient‐years [95% CI, 1.40–2.60]) compared with those undergoing MRA treatment (3.30/100 patient‐years [95% CI, 2.40–4.10],
P
=0.017). Advanced age (coefficient: 0.071,
P
<0.001) and diabetes (coefficient: 0.070,
P
=0.001) increased the risk of posttreatment MACE. A curvilinear dose–response relationship between the posttreatment plasma renin activity and the MACE incidence was observed, with the lowest risks at plasma renin activity of 1.0 to 2.0 ng/mL per hour (
P
nonlinearity
<0.001).

Conclusions

The MACE incidence in treated patients with PA was 2.20 per 100 patient‐years, higher than in patients with hypertension without PA. Maintaining posttreatment plasma renin activity between 1.0 and 2.0 ng/mL per hour appears crucial for minimizing cardiovascular risk. Adrenalectomy proved more effective than MRA treatment in reducing MACE risk. Advanced age and diabetes significantly increased the risk of posttreatment MACE.
Direct Oral Anticoagulants Versus Vitamin K Antagonists After Mitral Valve Transcatheter Edge‐to‐Edge Repair in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation: A Single‐Center Observational Study
Authors: Schipper Jan‐Hendrik , Sommer Anne‐Sophie , Nies Richard Julius , Metze Clemens , Meertens Max Maria , Wörmann Jonas , Dittrich Sebastian , van den Bruck Jan‐Hendrik , Sultan Arian , Lüker Jakob , Steven Daniel , Hohmann Christopher , Pfister Roman , Baldus Stephan , Eitel Ingo , Frerker Christian , Schmidt Tobias
Published: February 2025

Background

Mitral valve transcatheter edge‐to‐edge repair (M‐TEER) has emerged as a viable therapy option in patients with severe mitral regurgitation and high surgical risk. Although atrial fibrillation is common among patients undergoing M‐TEER, the optimal anticoagulatory treatment after the intervention is unknown.

Methods

A single‐center retrospective observational analysis was conducted using data from the M‐TEER registry at the University Hospital Cologne collected from 2019 untill 2021 including patients undergoing M‐TEER between November 2012 and April 2019. Patients with atrial fibrillation receiving consistent anticoagulation following M‐TEER were categorized into a direct oral anticoagulant or a vitamin K antagonist (VKA) group. The primary end point was a composite of ischemic cerebrovascular and bleeding events. Additionally, overall survival was assessed.

Results

Among 613 patients undergoing M‐TEER, 206 met the inclusion criteria, with 61 receiving direct oral anticoagulants and 145 receiving VKAs. After a median follow‐up of 833 (interquartile range, 355–1271) days, the incidence of the composite primary end point did not differ between direct oral anticoagulant and VKA groups (hazard ratio [HR], 0.51 [95% CI, 0.23–1.12];
P
=0.07). Similarly, rates of ischemic cerebrovascular events and bleeding events were similar between groups. However, the overall mortality rate was higher in the VKA group (HR, 2.56 [95% CI, 1.54–4.26];
P
=0.002). In the multivariable analysis, oral anticoagulation with a VKA was an independent predictor for death (adjusted HR, 2.23 [95% CI, 1.08–5.06];
P
=0.03).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that direct oral anticoagulants may offer comparable efficacy and safety to VKAs in preventing thromboembolic events following M‐TEER in patients with atrial fibrillation. Further randomized trials are needed to confirm these results and establish optimal anticoagulation strategies in this patient population.
In Patients With Hypertension, the Cortical Perfusion Index Measured by Contrast Enhanced Ultrasound Reveals a Sexual Dimorphism
Authors: Damianaki Aikaterini , Hendriks‐Balk Mariëlle , Brito Wendy , Polychronopoulou Erietta , Theiler Kenji , Pruijm Menno , Wuerzner Grégoire
Published: February 2025

Background

Arterial hypertension is characterized by microvasculature changes and reduced tissue perfusion. It is unknown whether a sexual dimorphism of renal microcirculation is present in patients with arterial hypertension. We aimed to compare the cortical microcirculation in women and men with hypertension and to evaluate their response to sympathetic stimulation with a cold pressor test (CPT).

Methods

The cortical perfusion index (PI) measured by contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography was used as a proxy of renal microcirculation. We measured the PI at rest and during a 2‐minute CPT in patients with arterial hypertension. We used a linear mixed‐model analysis to study the effect of sex, the CPT, and their interaction on the PI.

Results

Thirty‐two participants were included (34% women). Age and body mass index were similar in both groups. Median PI was higher in women (2344 [interquartile range, 1553–2685 arbitrary units]) than men (1285 [interquartile range, 591–1741 arbitrary units],
P
=0.009). The CPT increased the PI in both groups; however, the magnitude of the response to CPT was similar in both sexes.

Conclusions

Women with arterial hypertension have a higher cortical microperfusion than men, while their microvascular reactivity to a CPT appears to be similar. This sexual dimorphism may have an impact on renal function decline, which needs further investigation.
The Retraction Gender Gap: Are Mixed Teams More Vulnerable?
Authors: Maddi Abdelghani , Monneau Emmanuel , Guaspare-Cartron Catherine , Gargiulo Floriana , Dubois Michel
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the impact of gender diversity on the retraction of scientific publications. Analyzing a random sample of one million publications, covering 2,645,304 authors, alongside retraction data from RetractionWatch (39,709 publications), we identify key factors influencing publication retractions. Findings indicate that mixed-gender teams are more likely to face retractions than all-male or all-female teams, while individual authors are less prone to retractions. Larger research teams have a lower risk of retraction, whereas medium-sized teams (3–10 authors) experience increased risk. A close look at the reasons associated with retractions reveals some notable differences: male-led publications are often retracted for serious ethical violations, such as data falsification and plagiarism, while female-led publications primarily face procedural errors and updates in rapidly evolving fields. Promoting women to positions of responsibility in mix-collaborations may not only advances gender equity but also the accuracy of the scientific record.

Peer Review

https://www.webofscience.com/api/gateway/wos/peer-review/10.1162/qss_a_00353
Screening articles by citation reputation
Authors: Safón Vicente , Docampo Domingo , Cram Lawrence
Published: February 2025

We introduce reputable citations (RC), a method to screen and segment a collection of papers by decoupling popularity and influence. We demonstrate RC using recent works published in a large set of mathematics journals from Clarivate’s Incites Essential Science Indicators, leveraging Clarivate’s Web of Science for citation reports and assigning prestige values to institutions based on well-known international rankings. We compare researchers drawn from two samples: highly cited researchers (HC) and mathematicians whose influence is acknowledged by peers (Control). RC scores distinguish the influence of researchers beyond citations, revealing highly cited mathematical work of modest influence. The control group, comprising peer-acknowledged researchers, dominates the top tier of RC scores despite having fewer total citations than the HC group. Influence, as recognized by peers, does not always correlate with high citation counts, and RC scores offer a nuanced distinction between the two. With development, RC scores could automate screening of citations to identify exceptional and influential research, while addressing manipulative practices. The first application of RC reveals mathematics works that may be cited for reasons unrelated to genuine research advancements, suggesting a need for continued development of this method to mitigate such trends.

Peer Review

https://www.webofscience.com/api/gateway/wos/peer-review/10.1162/qss_a_00355
Assessing a Japanese-Funded Farm-to-Market Road Project in Agdangan, Quezon: Exacerbating Divides and Deepening Inequalities
Authors: Teves Ma. Josephine Therese Emily G.
Published: February 2025

This study assesses how Japanese and Filipino aid authorities facilitate a Japanese Official Development Assistance (ODA)-funded farm-to-market road (FMR) subproject as a solution aiming to achieve the Philippines’ overall poverty reduction and economic development goals. Through qualitative assessment, including direct observations, interviews, and focus group discussions (FGD s), this study critically assesses the implementation of the FMR subproject in Agdangan, Quezon, and investigates its multifaceted effects. Findings reveal a complex web of dynamics: while FMR enhances competitiveness of landowners and traders, unequal resource distribution marginalizes agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARB s). Utilizing Tanya Murray Li’s “The Will to Improve” and “Capitalism from Below” frameworks, the study finds that impacts on resources and practices indicate FMR’s success in achieving its espoused goals among rural elites. This study exposes disparities and disproportionalities in access to and distribution of benefits. It urges policymakers to address both structural and systemic barriers to strengthen local production.
Review of Thaumatographa tortricids in Taiwan (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae: Chlidanotinae: Hilarographini)
Authors: HEPPNER J. B. , ARITA YUTAKA , BAE YANG-SEOP
Published: February 2025

The genus Thaumatographa Walsingham, 1897 (Tortrici­dae: Chlidanoti­nae: Hilarographini) of day-flying tortricid moths is reviewed for the island of Taiwan, with four species recorded, two of which are new: Thaumatographa fennchihwu Heppner & Arita sp. nov. and Thaumato­grapha kentingana Heppner & Bae sp. nov., and one new subspecies of Thaumatographa aurosa Diakonoff & Arita of Japan, as Thaumatographa aurosa taiwana Heppner & Arita subsp. nov. Hilarographa calyx Razowski, 2009 syn. nov. is treated as new synonym of Thaumatographa mesostigmatias Diakonoff, 1977. The few Thaumatographa larvae are known as borers in shoots or roots of tropical Myrsinaceae, Rubiaceae, and Zingiberaceae. The few Thaumatographa larvae are known as borers in shoots or roots of tropical Myrsinaceae, Rubiaceae, and Zingiberaceae.
A new species of the alpheid shrimp genus Athanas Leach, 1814 (Decapoda: Caridea) from Japan, and additional record of Athanas exilis Komai & Henmi, 2023, clarifying male characteristics
Authors: KOMAI TOMOYUKI , HENMI YUMI
Published: February 2025

Two species of the alpheid shrimp genus Athanas Leach, 1814 are reported based on material from Wakasa Bay, Sea of Japan, and additional material from Sagami Bay, Japan. The identities of these two species were assessed through a phylogenetic analysis using the nucleotide sequences of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene. The first species, Athanas acudactylus sp. nov., is described based on two female specimens from Wakasa Bay and Sagami Bay. It resembles A. hongkongensis Bruce, 1990, differing from it in the armature of the telson posterior margin, the longer antennular peduncle, the absence of minute spiniform setae on the flexor margins of the third and fourth pereopod propodi, and the bispinous posterolateral end of the uropodal protopod. Male specimens with peculiar leaf-like chelae were identified as A. exilis Komai & Henmi, 2023, previously known only by the female holotype from Wakasa Bay. A supplemental description of A. exilis focused on the species’ male characteristics, is provided. The differences between A. exilis and the closely related A. phyllocheles Banner & Banner, 1983 are discussed.
Revisiting the genus Diplodoma Zeller, 1852 in Europe: DNA barcoding reveals the presence of an undescribed species from forested habitats of southern Italy (Lepidoptera: Psychidae)
Authors: CAVA SARA LA , RIJLLO GIUSEPPE , ZUCCO GIADA , SCALERCIO STEFANO
Published: February 2025

Diplodoma Zeller, 1852 is a Eurasian genus belonging to the family Psychidae Boisduval, 1829 of which three species are known in Europe: Diplodoma adspersella Heinmann, 1870, D. laichartingella (Goeze, 1783), and D. taurica Zagulajev, 1986. Some authors have argued that Diplodoma adspersella may be a subspecies or even a form of D. laichartingella. The revision of literature and the study of DNA barcoding fragments confirmed the inconsistency of D. adspersella as a valid species, and therefore we propose the new synonymy of Diplodoma adspersella with D. laichartingella (syn. nov.). During recent surveys in southern Italy, three specimens of Diplodoma were collected. DNA barcoding and morphological analyses showed that COI sequences and male genitalia significantly differ from any previously studied specimen. As a result, we described Diplodoma giulioregenii sp. nov., leaving unaltered the number of species belonging to this genus known from Europe.
A Benchmark Dataset for Tornado Detection and Prediction Using Full-Resolution Polarimetric Weather Radar Data
Authors: Veillette Mark S. , Kurdzo James M. , Stepanian Phillip M. , Cho John Y. N. , Reis Tony , Samsi Siddharth , McDonald Joseph , Chisler Nicholas
Published: February 2025

A weather radar is a primary tool used by forecasters to detect and warn for tornadoes in near–real time. To assist forecasters in warning the public, several algorithms have been developed to automatically detect tornadic signatures in weather radar observations. Recently, machine learning (ML) algorithms, which learn directly from large amounts of labeled data, have been shown to be highly effective for this purpose. Since tornadoes are extremely rare events within the corpus of all available radar observations, the selection and design of training datasets for ML applications are critical for the performance, robustness, and ultimate acceptance of ML algorithms. This study introduces a new benchmark dataset, Tornado Network (TorNet), to support the development of ML algorithms in tornado detection and prediction. TorNet contains full-resolution, polarimetric, level-II WSR-88D data sampled from 9 years of reported storm events. A number of ML baselines for tornado detection are developed and compared, including a deep learning (DL) architecture capable of processing raw radar imagery without the need for manual feature extraction required for traditional ML algorithms. Despite not benefiting from manual feature engineering or other preprocessing, the DL model shows increased detection performance compared to non-DL and operational baselines. The TorNet dataset, as well as the source code and model weights of the DL baseline trained in this work, is made freely available.

Significance Statement

Accurate and timely detection of tornadic signatures in radar data enables forecasters to issue timely warnings and preparedness measures, ultimately saving lives and reducing the devastating impact of tornadic storms. Machine learning (ML) has already been shown to be an effective tool for detecting key signals in radar that can be used to locate and track existing tornadoes. To further advance the state of the art in this area, this study presents a benchmark dataset that can be shared across the research community for the development and validation of ML-based algorithms for tornado detection. This work also provides a baseline deep learning (DL) model that is able to efficiently detect tornadic signatures in radar data.
Environmental Conditions Controlling the Morphology of Shallow Orographic Convection
Authors: Liu Jialin , Kirshbaum Daniel J.
Published: February 2025

Quasi-stationary rainbands capable of producing heavy localized precipitation have been observed over the Oregon Coastal Range and other mesoscale mountain ridges. These bands thus present an important forecasting problem, which is challenged by the inability of operational NWP models to accurately resolve them. To aid the prediction of these events, this study synthesizes an observational climatology with idealized large-eddy simulations of shallow convection over the Coastal Range. The climatology identified cases with banded and cellular morphologies over the Coastal Range and determined composite upstream soundings for each morphology. While prominent differences in these soundings included stronger low-level winds and dry static stability in the banded events, these differences alone did not fully determine the resulting cloud morphology in the simulations. Another key factor was the turbulence intensity in the impinging atmospheric boundary layer (ABL), which is partially controlled by the sea–air temperature difference over the eastern Pacific Ocean (ΔTSA). While banded events mostly exhibit ΔTSA < 0 and weak ABL turbulence, cellular events mostly exhibit the opposite. ABL turbulence was thus hypothesized to favor cells by disrupting the lee-wave circulations responsible for organizing the bands. A new parameter R was developed to predict cloud morphology based on the ratio of the TKE of transient turbulent velocity fluctuations to that of stationary lee-wave perturbations. This parameter accurately predicted the cloud morphology in numerous simulations with varying upstream flows and ΔTSA. It also provides a simple explanation for why the observed characteristics of banded events (stronger low-level winds and ABL stabilities, ΔTSA < 0) all favor band development.

Significance Statement

This study synthesizes observations and numerical simulations to determine the environmental conditions distinguishing quasi-stationary banded convection from transient cellular convection over the Oregon Coastal Range. The former morphology can concentrate heavy precipitation over narrow regions to greatly enhance flash-flooding risks. The results provide quantitative guidance for forecasters to aid their analysis of operational NWP forecasts.
Spatial Diversity of the Summer Marine Heat Waves in the South China Sea
Authors: Tang Siao , Chen Ruidan , Chen Zesheng
Published: February 2025

This study reveals that the summer marine heat waves (MHWs) in the South China Sea (SCS) could be classified into two spatial types, with warming centers over the central and northern SCS (denoted as C-MHW and N-MHW), respectively. The formation of C-MHW is related to a vigorous low-level anticyclonic anomaly centered in the northern SCS. Locally, the anticyclone is accompanied with anomalous sinking motion and northeasterly anomaly over the central SCS, which enhance insolation heating and inhibit evaporative cooling associated with the southwesterly monsoon. Meanwhile, the accompanied anticyclonic wind stress anomaly and reduced wind stress induce anomalous Ekman downwelling and weaken the climatological upwelling over the central SCS, contributing to the central warming center second to the surface heat flux. From a large-scale view, the SCS anticyclone is associated with the transition from El Niño to La Niña. In summer, the SCS anticyclone is favored by the zonal SSTA gradient over the Maritime Continent to the central Pacific via triggering anomalous easterlies extending to the central SCS, by the warming around the Maritime Continent via meridional circulation and by the Indian Ocean warming via Kelvin wave response and zonal circulation. Compared with C-MHW, N-MHW results from a weaker and smaller anticyclonic anomaly associated with weaker air–sea interaction. The anticyclone favors the northern warming center mainly via insolation heating. As for the tropical SSTA, persistent warming occurs around the Maritime Continent and the Indian Ocean but with a smaller amplitude compared with C-MHW; thus, the relevant air–sea interaction processes and the resultant SCS anticyclone are weaker.
Role-Accumulation and Mental Health across the Life Course
Authors: Mize Trenton D. , Kincaid Reilly
Published: February 2025

Decades of research shows that holding and maintaining multiple social roles leads to better mental health and well-being overall, but role-accumulation theory has not proposed or considered whether effects vary at different stages in the life course. Rather, the current theory assumes that social roles’ positive influence on mental health should be similar at all ages. In addition, extant work suggests that accumulating roles that are more voluntary than obligatory is the best strategy for mental health, regardless of age. In contrast, socioemotional selectivity theory suggests that in later life, adults tend to reduce their number of social roles, especially voluntary ones, as a strategy to maximize mental health. Using 21 waves/years of longitudinal data on Australian adults, we examine the effect of role-accumulation across the entire adult life course. Fixed-effects models show that the types of roles matter, with obligatory role-accumulation associated with better mental health at most ages, but not in late adulthood. In contrast, voluntary role-accumulation is beneficial at all ages, and especially for the mental health of older adults. The findings mostly support role-accumulation theory’s predictions and highlight the importance of voluntary roles for lifelong well-being. Our results suggest that creating more voluntary role opportunities that are accessible to all ages can benefit older individuals, communities, and population health more broadly.
Associations of maternal perinatal depressive disorders with autism spectrum disorder in offspring: Findings from a data-linkage cohort study
Authors: Tusa Biruk Shalmeno , Alati Rosa , Betts Kim , Ayano Getinet , Dachew Berihun
Published: February 2025

Background:

There is limited research on the association between maternal depression and autism spectrum disorder, and existing studies face significant limitations, including inadequate control for confounders, reliance on self-reported data, small sample sizes and lack of investigation into mediating factors. This study addresses these gaps by examining the direct relationship and the potential mediating effects of preterm birth, low birth weight and low Apgar scores.

Methods:

We analysed linked administrative health data involving 223,068 mother–offspring pairs in New South Wales, Australia. Maternal perinatal depressive disorders and offspring autism spectrum disorder were assessed using the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Australian Modification (ICD-10 AM). A generalised linear model was employed to examine the association. The mediation effects of preterm birth, low birth weight and low Apgar scores were assessed through mediation analysis.

Results:

After adjusting for a range of potential confounders, offspring of mothers with antenatal, postnatal and overall perinatal depressive disorders had a 61% (risk ratio = 1.61, 95% confidence interval = [1.12, 2.32]), 85% (risk ratio = 1.85, 95% confidence interval = [1.20, 2.86]) and 80% (risk ratio = 1.80, 95% confidence interval = [1.33, 2.43]) higher risk of autism spectrum disorder, respectively. Only about 1.29% and 1.31% of the effect of maternal antenatal depressive disorders on offspring autism spectrum disorder was mediated by preterm birth and low Apgar scores, respectively. Low birth weight had no significant mediating effect on the association.

Conclusion:

Maternal perinatal depressive disorders are associated with an increased risk of autism spectrum disorder in offspring. Preterm birth and low Apgar scores were weak mediators of this association. Early intervention strategies that aim to enhance maternal mental health and mitigate the risk of exposed offspring are needed.
A Power Comparison and Simulation Study of Tests of Fit for the Gumbel Distribution with Application to COVID-19 Data
Authors: Noughabi Hadi Alizadeh
Published: February 2025

In this article, we investigate goodness-of-fit tests based on the empirical distribution function for the composite Gumbel (extreme value) hypothesis. The parameters of the Gumbel distribution are estimated using numerical methods through the maximum likelihood approach. We employ a Monte Carlo method to obtain critical values and determine the actual sizes of the tests for different sample sizes. Furthermore, we conduct a comprehensive simulation study to compare the power values of the tests against various alternatives and different sample sizes. Finally, for illustrative purposes, we analyse a real data set.

AMS Subject Classification: 62G10; 62P10
Stella Insolita: The comet of 1114, a lost chronicle and the Empress Matilda
Authors: Carter Christopher
Published: February 2025

From Halley to Nishimura, cometographies have attempted to compile a complete record of every comet seen through the centuries. This article seeks to remove one from that list. The comet of 1114 was always an unusual star. Although recorded in various English sources dating from the 12th to the 15th centuries, it is attested nowhere else. How could a ‘huge comet’ have been seen in England but not in China, Korea or Japan? In fact, the comet of 1114 was a textual accident, an account of the comet of 1110 that was inadvertently transposed as the result of a clerical error. By tracing the genealogies of the earliest chronicle sources for this comet the original mistake can be identified and a new record of the comet of 1110 uncovered.