bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From informal farmland rental to market‐oriented transactions: Do China's Land Transfer Service Centers help?
Authors: Fan Pengfei , Mishra Ashok K. , Feng Shuyi , Su Min
Published: September 2024

Farmland rental markets are important in production agriculture. Informal farmland rental markets have taken root in Chinese agriculture. However, farmland rental markets need to be transparent for increased efficiency and smooth functioning. This study uses three waves of nationally representative panel data and a difference‐in‐differences framework to examine the effect of China's Land Transfer Service Centers (LTSCs) on market‐oriented farmland transfers. The result indicates that LTSCs enhance farmland transfer marketisation, encouraging landowners to rent their land to large‐scale operators, engage in fixed‐term contracts and charge pecuniary rents. However, the LTSCs' “discrimination” against smallholders may limit their impact on the overall market. Additionally, LTSCs have weaker effects in villages with large clans and stronger effects in villages with bank outlets. The results illustrate the potential value of intermediary service organisations (ISOs) in land rental markets.
Don't judge a leader by their reluctance
Authors: Moraligil Bahar , Aycan Zeynep , Özbilgin Mustafa , Erbil Cihat
Published: September 2024

Organizations invest over $166 billion annually in high‐potential employees (HiPos), yet many programs fail to identify the right candidates, with failure rates up to 40%. This study addresses the misrecognition of HiPos, focusing on reluctance to lead (RTL) as a key factor. RTL can lead to competent individuals being overlooked. Moderate RTL can enhance leadership by promoting power‐sharing and follower self‐leadership, which is characterized by humility and a servant mentality. This registered report investigates whether HR professionals' HiPo selection biases against RTL harm leader effectiveness through three studies. We will develop and validate an RTL scale (Study 1), investigate the impact of RTL on HiPo selection (Study 2), and examine the relationship between RTL and leadership effectiveness (Study 3). By understanding RTL's role in misrecognition and its association with effective leadership, this research aims to diversify the HiPo pool, support reluctant leaders' development, and promote diversity and inclusion in leadership selection.
Augmentation with prazosin for patients with depression and a history of trauma: A randomised, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Guo Ping , Xu Yong , Lv Liang , Feng Min , Fang Yu , Cheng Shanfei , Xiao Xiaoqing , Huang Juanjuan , Sheng Wei , Wang Shikai , Chen Huanxin
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Depression with a history of trauma often responds poorly to conventional antidepressants and has a poor prognosis. Prazosin, an α1‐adrenoceptor blocker, has shown promise in treating post‐traumatic stress disorder symptoms, particularly nightmares. Its potential in treating depression with trauma history warrants investigation.

Aims of the Study

This randomised, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study aimed to investigate the efficacy and tolerability of low‐dose prazosin (0.5–1 mg/day) as an augmentation strategy in patients with depression and a history of trauma. We sought to determine if prazosin could provide rapid symptom improvement and enhance overall treatment response compared to placebo in this difficult‐to‐treat patient population.

Methods

This randomised, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical study included 59 patients with first‐episode or recurrent unipolar or bipolar depression. After basic antidepressant treatment, they were randomly assigned to a prazosin (0.5–1 mg/day) or placebo group for a 6‐week double‐blind controlled study. The Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale, 17‐item Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD‐17), and Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA) were used to evaluate efficacy.

Results

There were no significant differences in the results of the demographic and clinical symptom assessment between the two groups (p > 0.05). The difference between the HAMD‐17 and HAMA scores was statistically significant after 3 days of treatment (p < 0.05). The difference in response rate between the two groups was statistically significant after week 4 of treatment (end of week 4, 56.7% vs. 24.1%, p = 0.011; end of week 6, 80.0% vs. 48.3%, p = 0.011). The incidence of adverse reactions in the prazosin and placebo groups was 20.0% and 24.1%, respectively, with no statistically significant differences (p > 0.05); however, the prazosin group had a lower incidence of sleeplessness or nightmares (3.3% vs. 20.7%, p = 0.039) but a higher incidence of orthostatic hypotension (16.7% vs. 0%, p = 0.007). The severity of orthostatic hypotension was mild to moderate.

Conclusion

Low‐dose prazosin can effectively improve the emotional symptoms of patients with depression and a history of trauma, and the common adverse reaction is mild‐to‐moderate orthostatic hypotension.

Clinical Trial Registration

ChiCTR2200063642.
Xanthine negatively regulates c‐MYC through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and inhibits the proliferation, invasion, and migration of breast cancer cells
Authors: Zhang Aijia , Ai Limei
Published: September 2024

Background aim

Breast cancer is a prevalent and aggressive malignancy associated with elevated mortality rates worldwide. Dysregulation of the c‐MYC oncogene and aberrant activation of the phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT) signaling pathway are common features in breast cancer progression, rendering them attractive therapeutic targets. Here, we assessed the effects of the plant derivative, xanthine, on breast cancer cells and explored the molecular mechanisms underlying its activity.

Methods

Breast cancer cell lines were treated with xanthine, followed by assessment of c‐MYC expression levels. Cell proliferation, invasion, and migration were analyzed to assess the effects of xanthine treatment on breast cancer cell behavior.

Results

Xanthine treatment induced a decrease in c‐MYC expression, resulting in significant inhibition of breast cancer cell proliferation, invasion, and migration. Mechanistic investigations revealed that these effects were mediated by suppression of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

Conclusions

Xanthine shows great potential for breast cancer treatment by targeting c‐MYC via the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Our findings indicate that development of xanthine as a novel treatment option for breast cancer, which acts by influencing key oncogenic pathways involved in tumor progression, may be warranted.
Partnering with the woman who declines recommended maternity care: Development of a statewide guideline in Queensland, Australia
Authors: Jenkinson Bec , Gray Lyndel , Sketcher‐Baker Kirstine , Kimble Rebecca
Published: September 2024

Background

Choice, a fundamental pillar of woman‐centred maternity care, depends in part on the right to decline recommended care. While professional guidance for midwives and obstetricians emphasises informed consent and respect for women's autonomy, there is little guidance available to clinicians or women about how to navigate maternity care in the context of refusal.

Aim

To describe the process and outcomes of co‐designing resources to support partnership between the woman who declines recommended maternity care and the clinicians and health services who provide her care.

Materials and Methods

Following a participatory co‐design process involving consumer representatives, obstetricians, midwives, maternal fetal medicine specialists, neonatologists, health service executives, and legal and ethics experts, implementation of the resources was trialled in seven Queensland Health services using Improvement Science's Plan‐Do‐Study‐Act cycles.

Results

Resources for Partnering with the woman who declines recommended maternity care have now been implemented statewide, in Queensland, including a guideline, two consumer information brochures (available in 11 languages), clinical form, flowcharts, consumer video, clinician education, and culturally capable First Nations resources. Central to these resources is an innovative shared clinical form, that is accessible online, may be initiated and carried by the woman, and where she can document her perspective as part of the clinical notes.

Conclusion

Queensland is the first Australian jurisdiction, and perhaps internationally, to formally establish this kind of guidance in clinical practice. Such guidance is identified as an enabler of choice in the national Australian strategy Woman‐centred care: Strategic directions for Australian maternity services.
Prevalence and associations of dome‐shaped maculas. The Beijing Eye Study
Authors: Jonas Jost B. , Panda‐Jonas Songhomitra , Wei Wen‐Bin , Xu Jie , Wang Ya Xing
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To explore the prevalence and associated factors of a dome‐shaped macula (DSM) in a general population.

Methods

Out of the population‐based Beijing Eye Study cohort (n = 3468 participants), the investigation included all eyes with an axial length of ≥25 mm, and a randomized sample of eyes with an axial length of <25 mm. Using optical coherence tomographic (OCT) images, we examined presence and height of DSMs, defined as an inward convexity of the foveal retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)/Bruch's membrane (BM) line, detectable in at least two OCT scans perpendicularly orientated to each other.

Results

The study cohort consisted of 366 eyes (314 individuals) with a mean age of 63.7 ± 9.7 years and a mean axial length of 24.8 ± 2.1 mm (median: 25.1 mm; range: 18.96–30.88 mm). Prevalence of DSMs (found in 6/366 eyes; 1.9%; 95%CI: 1.0, 3.0) increased from 0/125 (0%) in non‐myopic eyes to 1/152 (0.7%; 95%CI: 0.0, 2.0) in moderately myopic eyes, and to 6/83 (7.2%; 95%CI: 1.7, 12.7) in the highly myopic group. In multivariable analysis, higher DSM prevalence corelated with longer axial length (OR: 2.05; 95%CI: 1.36, 3.08; p < 0.001) and higher stage of myopic macular degeneration (OR: 1.08; 95%CI: 1.01, 1.16; p = 0.03). The mean maximal DSM height was 139 ± 107 μm (median: 100 μm; range: 25–350 μm). It was associated with higher stage of myopic macular degeneration (beta: 0.24; p < 0.001) and higher prevalence of macular BM defects (beta: 0.17; p < 0.001). None of the DSMs showed a serous retinal detachment or relative choroidal thickening.

Conclusions

Higher DSM prevalence correlated non‐linearly with longer axial length, with DSM height increasing with the presence of a BM defect. DSMs may be associated with an axial elongation‐related BM overproduction in the fundus midperiphery in all meridians.
Robotic extraperitoneal stoma closure with left hemicolectomy for descending colon cancer following abdominoperineal resection: A case report
Authors: Uehara Shuhei , Ushigome Hajime , Takahashi Hiroki , Asai Hiroyuki , Kato Akira , Fujii Yoshiaki , Watanabe Kaori , Yanagita Takeshi , Suzuki Takuya , Ogawa Ryo , Matsuo Yoichi , Takiguchi Shuji
Published: September 2024

Extraperitoneal colostomy is often selected to reduce the risk of parastomal hernia. However, its closure surgery is rare and seldom reported. Here, we report our unique experience with robotic left hemicolectomy and extraperitoneal colostomy closure. An 83‐year‐old female was diagnosed with descending colon cancer with stenosis. She had previously undergone abdominoperineal resection with extraperitoneal colostomy. After improving the intestinal obstruction with a self‐expanding stent, we performed robotic left hemicolectomy and extraperitoneal colostomy closure. Thanks to the multijoint function of the robot, which enables the forceps to be angled up to 90° in all directions, we could dissect the stoma from the abdominal wall up to just beneath the rectus abdominis in an intra‐abdominal procedure without enlarging the skin incision. This case suggests that robotic surgery with the articulating function is beneficial for procedures near the abdominal wall ceiling and effective for extraperitoneal colostomy closure.
A case of robotic distal pancreatectomy for solitary fibrous tumor of the pancreas
Authors: Nagata Rihito , Takemura Nobuyuki , Ninomiya Riki , Yamada Naganori , Matsudaira Shinichi , Kimura Akifumi , Takayanagi Natsuko , Imada Hiroki , Maki Akira , Beck Yoshifumi
Published: September 2024

Solitary fibrous tumor (SFT) is a spindle cell tumor driven by the NAB2‐STAT6 fusion gene. While it can originate from any soft tissue, primary SFT of the pancreas is rare with limited reports. A 36‐year‐old man came to our department due to abdominal pain. Computed tomography revealed a circular mass with weak peripheral enhancement and an internal cyst in the pancreatic tail. Diagnosis was not confirmed through endoscopic ultrasound‐guided biopsy, and differential diagnoses included acinar cell carcinoma and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor. A robotic distal pancreatectomy with splenectomy was performed, and the patient was discharged 11 days postoperatively. Histopathological examination showed an irregular arrangement of spindle cells, and immunohistochemical staining was positive for CD34 and STAT6, confirming an SFT diagnosis with low metastatic risk. Robotic surgery effectively managed this tumor.
Angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors attenuate circulating CAF22 and physical decline in congestive heart failure: Diagnostic implications of CAF22
Authors: Ahmad Firdos , Karim Asima , Khan Javaidullah , Qaisar Rizwan
Published: September 2024

Aims

Age‐associated muscle loss, termed sarcopenia is the major cause of physical disability in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF). Angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi) are commonly used to treat CHF patients; however, their impacts on the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) and sarcopenia in CHF patients remain poorly understood. We aim to investigate the potential impact of ACEi on NMJ and CHF‐induced sarcopenia.

Methods

The cardiac function, short physical performance battery, handgrip strength (HGS), appendicular skeletal mass index, gait speed (GS) and plasma c‐terminal agrin fragment‐22 (CAF22), a marker of NMJ degradation, were assessed in controls (n = 81) and CHF patients treated with (n = 134) or without (n = 145) ACEi.

Results

Irrespective of treatment, HGS and GS, indicators of sarcopenia, were profoundly declined in the patients with CHF vs. controls. However, patients on ACEi demonstrated significantly better HGS and GS compared to non‐ACEi patients (P < .001). The level of CAF22 was significantly lower (P < .0001) in the ACEi‐treated compared to non‐ACEi CHF patients. Further, the level of CAF22 was inversely correlated (R2 = .33, P < .0001) with HGS in both ACEi and non‐ACEi CHF patients, while CAF22 was inversely correlated with GS and short physical performance battery only in ACEi‐treated but not in patients on other therapies without ACEi. The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed CAF22 as a potential diagnostic marker (95% confidence interval: 0.785–0.883; P < .0001) for CHF.

Conclusion

Collectively, these findings strongly suggest that ACEi limits CHF‐induced neuromuscular disjunction and physical disability in CHF. CAF22 has shown diagnostic implications for CHF.
Mood regulation in euthymic patients with a history of antidepressant‐induced mania
Authors: Halabi Ramzi , Yusuff Khairatun , Park Clara , DeShaw Alexandra , Gonzalez‐Torres Christina , Husain Muhammad I. , O'Donovan Claire , Alda Martin , Mulsant Benoit H. , Ortiz Abigail
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The use of antidepressants in bipolar disorder (BD) remains contentious, in part due to the risk of antidepressant‐induced mania (AIM). However, there is no information on the architecture of mood regulation in patients who have experienced AIM. We compared the architecture of mood regulation in euthymic patients with and without a history of AIM.

Methods

Eighty‐four euthymic participants were included. Participants rated their mood, anxiety and energy levels daily using an electronic (e‐) visual analog scale, for a mean (SD) of 280.8(151.4) days. We analyzed their multivariate time series by computing each variable's auto‐correlation, inter‐variable cross‐correlation, and composite multiscale entropy of mood, anxiety, and energy. Then, we compared the data features of participants with a history of AIM and those without AIM, using analysis of covariance, controlling for age, sex, and current treatment.

Results

Based on 18,103 daily observations, participants with AIM showed significantly stronger day‐to‐day auto‐correlation and cross‐correlation for mood, anxiety, and energy than those without AIM. The highest cross‐correlation in participants with AIM was between mood and energy within the same day (median (IQR), 0.58 (0.27)). The strongest negative cross‐correlation in participants with AIM was between mood and anxiety series within the same day (median (IQR), −0.52 (0.34)).

Conclusion

Patients with a history of AIM have a different underlying mood architecture compared to those without AIM. Their mood, anxiety and energy stay the same from day‐to‐day; and their anxiety is negatively correlated with their mood.
Trends in surgical outcomes for Ileal pouch–anal anastomosis construction using a large nationwide database
Authors: Habermann Alyssa , Gassie Hannah , Rustom Salem , Wieghard Nicole E. , Wexner Steven D. , Sharp Stephen P.
Published: September 2024

Aim

Ulcerative colitis (UC) affects over 3 million (1.3%) US adults, approximately 20% of whom will require surgery. Since it was first described in 1978, restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch–anal anastomosis (IPAA) has become the gold standard for patients requiring surgery, as well as for patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). In 1991 the laparoscopic approach to IPAA was introduced. The aim of this study was to evaluate the advances made in IPAA as minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has become more prevalent.

Method

The American College of Surgeons NSQIP database from 2005 to 2019 was used. Laparoscopic (MIS) and open cases of IPAA construction for UC or FAP were used. These patients were subdivided into three time point cohorts: early (2005–2009), middle (2010–2014) and recent (2015–2019). Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed to evaluate morbidity, mortality and hospital length of stay.

Results

A total of 6184 patients were analysed, and 2555 underwent MIS while 3629 underwent open surgery. After multivariable analysis, the MIS approach was associated with a lower risk of morbidity compared with open procedures [relative risk (RR) = 0.86, p < 0.0001, 95% CI 0.78–0.94], both in the early and recent periods [early period = RR = 0.66 (p < 0.0001), recent period RR = 0.78 (p = 0.0029)]. Superficial surgical site infection (SSI) was consistently lower in the MIS cohort across all three time periods. After multivariable analysis, the overall RR of superficial SSI in the MIS cohort was 0.41 (p < 0.0001) [early period RR = 0.35 (p < 0.0001), middle period RR = 0.55 (p = 0.0007), recent period RR = 0.31 (p < 0.0001)]. The RR of deep space SSI was decreased overall (RR = 0.58, p = 0.013, 95% CI 0.62–0.93), with the most significant effect occurring during the early period (RR = 0.30, p = 0.0260, 95% CI 0.105–0.868). Sepsis related to any infective aetiology was also decreased in the MIS cohort (RR = 0.76, p = 0.0093, 95% CI 0.62–0.93), especially in the recent time period (RR = 0.63, p = 0.0344, 95% CI 0.41–0.97). Furthermore, hospital length of stay was decreased in the MIS cohort (−0.287 days, p = 0.0170), with a greater difference occurring in the more recent cohort (−0.375 days, p = 0.0418).

Conclusion

With increasing utilization of minimally invasive techniques in IPAA creation there have been significant decreases in the rates of morbidity including decreasing rates of superficial and deep space SSI, as well as decreased hospital length of stay.
Glucose‐lowering drugs and liver‐related outcomes among individuals with type 2 diabetes: A systematic review of longitudinal population‐based studies
Authors: Khanmohammadi Shaghayegh , Habibzadeh Amirhossein , Kamrul‐Hasan A. B. M. , Schuermans Art , Kuchay Mohammad Shafi
Published: September 2024

Aims

While randomized controlled trials data on the long‐term effect of glucose‐lowering drugs (GLDs) on liver‐related outcomes are lacking, population‐based studies have evaluated the associations of GLDs with liver‐related outcomes in individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D). we aimed to conduct a systematic review of population‐based studies evaluating the effects of GLDs on liver‐related outcomes in people with T2D.

Methods

PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases were systematically searched for population‐based studies testing the associations of GLDs with liver‐related outcomes in individuals with T2D and no liver disease other than non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) from inception to 23 February 2024. GLDs included SGLT2is, TZDs, insulin, GLP‐1 RAs and dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors (DPP4Is).

Results

Ten cohort studies, comprising 1,274,641 participants, met the inclusion criteria. The median follow‐up period ranged from 8.9 to 76 months. Of all the GLDs under investigation, SGLT2is were associated with the strongest reduction in NAFLD incidence, cirrhosis, and composite liver‐related events compared to other medications. TZDs were associated with a reduced risk of developing NAFLD and cirrhosis but were not significantly associated with a lower incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma. GLP‐1 RAs demonstrated a significant association with reduced liver‐related mortality.

Conclusions

Observational data from population‐based studies suggest that GLDs such as SGLT2is are associated with beneficial long‐term liver‐related outcomes in T2D patients with NAFLD. Additional studies, including randomized controlled trials with long‐term follow‐up, are needed to confirm these findings.

Registration Number

PROSPERO CRD442024536872.
A Voyage of Discovering the Role of Principal Transformational Leadership Behaviour on EFL Teacher Psychological Well‐Being and Success
Authors: Zhou Jun , Guo Jirong
Published: September 2024

Aligning with the principles of positive psychology, a critical aspect that has gained prominence in academic territory over the past 2 decades is the concept of well‐being. And the recent scholarly articles have underscored the centrality of teachers' psychological well‐being (PWB). Given that the well‐being and success of teachers are contingent upon their workplace environment, external factors such as the behaviours of the principals wield considerable influence over them. In alignment with this premise, the present investigation sought to scrutinise the structural interplay between principal transformational leadership behaviours (TLB), well‐being and success within a cohort of 520 Chinese English as a Foreign Language, who were selected through convenience sampling. After the distribution of three self‐report scales among the participants to assess their perceptions of principals' behaviour, PWB and success, structural equation modelling (SEM) was utilised for statistical analysis to evaluate the hypothesised model. The outcomes of the analysis revealed that principal TLB explained 62% of the variance in the participants' success and 57% of the variance in their PWB. The implications of these findings for the extant literature are deliberated upon, leading to recommendations for policymakers and practitioners based on the results.
Impact of Entrepreneurship Education on the Entrepreneurial Intention of Higher Vocational Students: A Moderated Mediation Effects Model
Authors: Huang Maoyong , Xu Shuang , Guo Tengfei , Ni Yakun , Xu Yanzhen
Published: September 2024

Entrepreneurship education is pivotal in augmenting entrepreneurial propensity among students in higher vocational institutions, facilitating the emergence of tangible innovative and entrepreneurial activities. However, research on the effects of various entrepreneurial education models on students' entrepreneurial intentions is limited. This study introduces a moderated mediation model to investigate the intricate mechanisms and contextual conditions under which different educational approaches influence students' entrepreneurial intentions in higher vocational settings. Data from 1197 students from diverse disciplinary backgrounds were analysed using a survey methodology. The findings reveal that both the theoretical and practical components of entrepreneurship education positively influence students' entrepreneurial intentions. Specifically, the effect of entrepreneurship education on these intentions is mediated by enhanced creativity. This study reveals that the social environment plays a dual role; it positively moderates the relationship between theoretical entrepreneurship education and entrepreneurial intention, implying that a supportive social context amplifies the effectiveness of theoretical education. Conversely, a favourable social environment attenuates the impact of practical entrepreneurship education on students' entrepreneurial intentions. This study offers novel insights for vocational colleges, aiming to not only bolster students' entrepreneurial intentions but also enrich the understanding of the processes and mechanisms underlying the formation of such intentions in a vocational education context.
Clinical utility of ultra long‐term subcutaneous electroencephalographic monitoring in drug‐resistant epilepsies: a “real world” pilot study
Authors: Rubboli Guido , Bø Margrete Halvorsen , Alfstad Kristin , Armand Larsen Sidsel , Jacobsen Mads Due Holm , Vlachou Maria , Weisdorf Sigge , Rasmussen Rune , Egge Arild , Henning Oliver , Lossius Morten , Beniczky Sandor
Published: September 2024

Objective

This study was undertaken to assess the clinical utility, safety, and tolerability in epilepsy patients of ultra long‐term monitoring with a novel subcutaneous electroencephalographic (EEG) device (sqEEG).

Methods

Five patients with drug‐resistant focal epilepsy were implanted (one patient bilaterally) with sqEEG. In phase 1, we assessed sqEEG sensitivity for seizure recording by recording seizures simultaneously with scalp EEG in the epilepsy monitoring unit (EMU). sqEEG was scored either visually (v‐sqEEG) or by using a semiautomatic algorithm (EpiSight; E‐sqEEG). In phase 2, the patients were monitored as outpatients for 3–6 months. sqEEG data were analyzed monthly, evaluating concordance of data obtained by v‐sqEEG, E‐sqEEG, and patients' diaries. v‐sqEEG data were used to guide treatment adjustments. sqEEG‐related side effects were assessed throughout the study.

Results

In phase 1, v‐sqEEG detected all seizures recorded in the EMU in all patients, whereas E‐sqEEG was as effective in three patients. In the other two patients, E‐sqEEG detected only a proportion or none of the seizures, respectively. Sensitivity of E‐sqEEG depended on the ictal EEG features. In phase 2, a 100% concordance between E‐sqEEG and v‐sqEEG in seizure detection was observed for the same three patients as in phase 1. In the other two patients (one implanted bilaterally), effectiveness of E‐sqEEG in detecting seizure as compared to v‐sqEEG ranged from 0% to 83%. v‐sqEEG showed that all patients reported in their diaries fewer seizures than they actually suffered. In four of five patients, v‐sqEEG showed that the treatment adjustments had been ineffective or associated with a seizure increment. The only side effect was an infection at the implantation site in one patient.

Significance

The sqEEG system could collect reliable information on seizure activity, thus providing clinically relevant information. Sensitivity of EpiSight in detecting seizures varied across patients, depending on the ictal EEG features. sqEEG ultra long‐term monitoring was feasible and well tolerated.
On the gravitation‐based classification: A novel algorithm using equilibrium points for enhanced learning and dimensionality reduction
Authors: Monemizadeh Mostafa , Hashemi Seyed Rouhollah Samareh , Monemizadeh Morteza
Published: September 2024

The concept and effects of gravitation have been effectively utilized to design various data classification algorithms. Generally, there are two primary approaches to gravitation‐based classification: one that relies on gravitational force and another that is based on gravitational potential energy. In this paper, we examine these two approaches and introduce a novel classification algorithm grounded in gravitational potential energy. The core idea of our approach is to identify an equilibrium point for a line mass (serving as the classifier line) situated between two groups of fixed point masses (representing two data classes). The equilibrium point of the classifier line is determined by minimizing the total gravitational potential energy resulting from the two groups of point masses. Notably, our method demonstrates the following: (i) it acts as a dimensionality reduction technique that seeks a new feature space with lower dimensionality for improved class discrimination by maximizing the sum of the logarithms of the projections, (ii) it leads to an information‐theoretic learning strategy that minimizes the overall uncertainty of the classifier, and (iii) it offers a convex formulation that guarantees convergence to a global optimum solution. We also present experimental results that indicate the superior performance of the proposed method compared to existing techniques.
A novel hybrid random convolutional kernels model for price volatlity forecasting of precious metals
Authors: Sai Siva , Giri Arun Kumar , Chamola Vinay
Published: September 2024

Precious metals are rare metals with high economic value. Forecasting the price volatility of precious metals is essential for investment purposes. In this work, we propose a novel hybrid model of random convolutional kernels‐based neural network model (RCK) and generalized autoregressive conditional heteroscedasticity (GARCH) model for forecasting the metal price volatilities of gold, silver, and platinum. Realized volatility calculated on logarithmic returns is used as an estimate for the volatility of prices, and data standardization is performed before feeding the price volatility data to the RCK model. RCK model applies multiple carefully designed random convolution kernels on the time series input to extract robust features for forecasting. The proportion of positive values (PPV) is extracted as features from the output of convolving convolutional kernels with time‐series inputs, which are then passed through a regressor to forecast volatility. Compared to the existing methods, the proposed method has the advantage that the weights of the random convolutional kernels need not be trained, unlike other neural network models. Further, no other work has made use of random convolutional kernels for precious metal forecasting, to the best of our knowledge. We incorporated novel learning and data augmentation strategies to achieve better performance. In particular, we used the cosine annealing learning rate strategy and Mixup data augmentation technique to improve the proposed model's performance. We have used MSE (Mean Squared Error), RMSE (Root Mean Squared Error), MAE (Mean Absolute Error), and MAPE (Mean Absolute Percentage Error) as metrics to compare the proposed models' performance. The proposed model decreases the MSE by 53% compared to the GARCH‐LSTM model, which is the current state‐of‐the‐art hybrid model for volatility forecasting.
Exploring Sustainable Public Procurement Through Regulatory Conversations
Authors: Lagström Cristian , Ek Österberg Emma
Published: September 2024

This article responds to calls for research on public financial management for sustainable development by exploring sustainable public procurement (SPP), a demand‐side policy tool that is claimed to have great potential. Borrowing from socio‐legal studies, we use the concept of regulatory conversations to explore continuous communicative interactions and interpretations related to SPP in Sweden. Drawing on a dataset consisting of policy documents, referral responses, and media articles, our analysis indicates that strong first‐order linkages between sustainability and procurement have been created over time. However, the analysis illustrates how strong linkages trigger second‐order linkages, that is, new contestations over the operationalization of SPP as the level of concretization increases and the prioritization of goals and values is made possible. Additionally, we extend the existing literature by applying the concept of regulatory conversations to the domain of public financial management. In doing so, we illuminate the inherently deliberative nature of regulation. Through this interdisciplinary approach, we offer a fresh perspective on the mechanisms that support SPP.
Exploring the factors contributing to parent stress symptoms during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Europe: An ABC‐X model approach
Authors: Brik Anis Ben , Wang Yunqi
Published: September 2024

The COVID‐19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the mental health and well‐being of families worldwide, with parents particularly at risk for stress and other psychological symptoms. In this study, we sought to understand the factors contributing to parent stress symptoms during the early stages of the pandemic in 23 European countries (N = 40,138) using the double ABC‐X model. We examined whether the relationship between stressor pile‐up and perceived stress was mediated by family satisfaction and relationship satisfaction and whether family resiliency beliefs impacted these mediated relationships. Our results showed a direct association between stressor pile‐up and parent stress symptoms, but we did not find evidence for the mediating role of family satisfaction or relationship satisfaction in this relationship. We also found that family resiliency beliefs did not moderate the indirect effects of family satisfaction and relationship satisfaction on parent stress symptoms. These findings suggest that the ABC‐X model may not fully capture the processes affecting parents' experience of stress during the pandemic and that alternative models such as the vulnerability‐stress‐adaptation model may be more relevant. Future research should also consider the potential negative impact of resiliency beliefs on mental health and other risk and protective factors such as self‐compassion.
What is on the menu? Botanical carnivory in carnivorous plants of New England (USA)
Authors: Kurosawa Emmi , Oakes Joanne M.
Published: September 2024

Carnivorous plants obtain nutrients from arthropod prey (carnivory) and their environment. However, little is known about the seasonal diet shifts between carnivory versus environment nutrient acquisition among co‐occurring carnivorous plant species. Although studies reporting captured prey species for carnivorous plants are abundant, studies investigating the composition of assimilated prey species are scarce. Here, we report spatiotemporal dynamics in carnivory versus environmental nutrient acquisition and compositional analysis of assimilated prey species for carnivorous plants of New England (USA).

We measured the natural abundance stable isotope ratios of aquatic Utricularia inflata (Lentibulariaceae), terrestrial Sarracenia purpurea (Sarraceniaceae) and Drosera intermedia (Droseraceae) and their nutrient sources during their growing season in two oligotrophic ponds in New England (USA). MixSIAR, a Bayesian stable isotope mixing model, was used to estimate the extent of carnivory for each plant species and the composition of prey species assimilated in terrestrial carnivorous plants.

Aquatic U. inflata acquired more nutrients from carnivory (c. 70%–100%) than terrestrial species (c. 30–60%). Sarracenia purpurea acquired nutrients mainly from Formicidae. The nutrient sources for D. intermedia varied spatiotemporally between arthropod species.

The large contribution of carnivory to the nutrient budget of U. inflata could be due to its lack of roots and high metabolism. Sarracenia purpurea and D. intermedia could benefit from dissolved organic nitrogen in the environment. Our findings on prey compositions can be used as the first available prior information for the Bayesian approach in future studies. Understanding the sources of nutrients in carnivorous plants provides invaluable insight into their ecophysiology and may inform the conservation of their fragile wetland ecosystems.
Proximal splenic artery embolization for treatment of refractory ascites, a single‐center experience
Authors: Mustafa Abdul Rehman , Atta Raneem , P. Goodman Russell , Wu Vincent , Irani Zubin , Zurkiya Omar , Bethea Emily D. , Yamada Kei , Wehrenberg‐Klee Eric P.
Published: September 2024

Aim

Refractory ascites from portal hypertension can be managed with regular large‐volume paracentesis (LVP) or transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS). Large‐volume paracentesis is clinically unsatisfactory and many patients are ineligible or relatively contraindicated for TIPS or Denver shunt. Proximal splenic artery embolization (PSAE) using coils or plugs reduces but does not completely stop splenic arterial inflow, differing from distal splenic artery embolization techniques. By reducing splenic arterial inflow, splenic vein outflow is also decreased, lowering portal pressure and thus treating refractory ascites.

Methods

In this institutional review board‐approved single‐center retrospective study, electronic medical records were reviewed to obtain demographics and baseline clinical and laboratory data, paracentesis data before and after PSAE, PSAE procedural details, and follow‐up imaging up to 12 months post‐PSAE. Mixed‐effects models were used for statistical analysis.

Results

Ten patients with LVP‐dependent ascites meeting inclusion criteria underwent PSAE for refractory ascites from 2017 to 2024. Prior to PSAE, four patients had TIPS, three had liver transplants, and the remaining three were neither TIPS nor transplant candidates. In the month before PSAE, patients averaged 3.8 ± 1.7 paracentesis sessions, draining a total of 20.84 ± 10.39 L of fluid monthly. Post‐PSAE, the number of paracentesis sessions decreased to 2.1 ± 2.7, 1.0 ± 1.7, 0.4 ± 1.1, and 0.0 ± 0.0 at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively (p = 0.03). Corresponding ascitic volume drained decreased to 8.7 ± 10.3, 2.7 ± 6.4, 2.0 ± 5.4, and 0.0 ± 0.0 L (p = 0.01). Over the 12‐month follow‐up period, 6 of 10 patients became LVP‐independent.

Conclusion

Proximal splenic artery embolization can improve refractory ascites in certain patients with portal hypertension, thus providing safe and effective treatment as an alternative to TIPS.
The association of ultra‐processed food intake with adolescent metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease in the NHANES
Authors: Buytaert Maarten , Declercq Dimitri , Depoorter Fleur , Cosijn Zerlina , Devisscher Lindsey , Raevens Sarah , Verhelst Xavier , Van Vlierberghe Hans , Geerts Anja , De Bruyne Ruth , Lefere Sander
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) has become a major public health concern. A thorough analysis of the link between ultra‐processed food (UPF) intake and MASLD in the adolescent population is lacking.

Methods

Adolescent participants of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) pre‐pandemic cohort were included. Different controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) cut‐offs were used to assess MASLD. The percentage energy intake of UPF, categorized according to the NOVA classification, to total energy intake was taken as the main outcome marker. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to better quantify the causal connection between UPF and liver steatosis.

Results

UPF consumption constituted a median 75% (62–86) of total energy intake. There was no significant correlation between UPF intake and CAP (ρ = 0.061, p = 0.091). The median proportion UPF intake was not associated with steatosis severity. SEM similarly yielded a weak and non‐significant correlation of 0.078. In participants with MASLD, total energy intake was significantly higher (p < 0.001) and sugar‐containing beverage (SCB) consumption showed a non‐significant trend towards higher consumption.

Conclusions

No clinically relevant association between UPF intake and MASLD in adolescents could be demonstrated. Our results nonetheless suggest that total energy intake and consumption of SCBs are important contributors to paediatric obesity and MASLD.
RNA technology and nanocarriers empowering in vivo chimeric antigen receptor therapy
Authors: Cai Jingsheng , Chen Shaoyi , Liu Zheng , Li Haoran , Wang Peiyu , Yang Fan , Li Yun , Chen Kezhong , Sun Ming , Qiu Mantang
Published: September 2024

The remarkable success of mRNA‐based coronavirus 2019 (COVID‐19) vaccines has propelled the advancement of nanomedicine, specifically in the realm of RNA technology and nanomaterial delivery systems. Notably, significant strides have been made in the development of RNA‐based in vivo chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) therapy. In comparison to the conventional ex vivo CAR therapy, in vivo CAR therapy offers several benefits including simplified preparation, reduced costs, broad applicability and decreased potential for carcinogenic effects. This review summarises the RNA‐based CAR constructs in in vivo CAR therapy, discusses the current applications of in vivo delivery vectors and outlines the immune cells edited with CAR molecules. We aim for the conveyed messages to contribute towards the advancement of in vivo CAR application.
Immunomodulatory and anti‐inflammatory properties of immunoglobulin G antibodies
Authors: Hematianlarki Marjan , Nimmerjahn Falk
Published: September 2024

Antibodies provide an essential layer of protection from infection and reinfection with microbial pathogens. An impaired ability to produce antibodies results in immunodeficiency and necessitates the constant substitution with pooled serum antibodies from healthy donors. Among the five antibody isotypes in humans and mice, immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies are the most potent anti‐microbial antibody isotype due to their long half‐life, their ability to penetrate almost all tissues and due to their ability to trigger a wide variety of effector functions. Of note, individuals suffering from IgG deficiency frequently produce self‐reactive antibodies, suggesting that a normal serum IgG level also may contribute to maintaining self‐tolerance. Indeed, the substitution of immunodeficient patients with pooled serum IgG fractions from healthy donors, also referred to as intravenous immunoglobulin G (IVIg) therapy, not only protects the patient from infection but also diminishes autoantibody induced pathology, providing more direct evidence that IgG antibodies play an active role in maintaining tolerance during the steady state and during resolution of inflammation. The aim of this review is to discuss different conceptual models that may explain how serum IgG or IVIg can contribute to maintaining a balanced immune response. We will focus on pathways depending on the IgG fragment crystallizable (Fc) as pre‐clinical data in various mouse model systems as well as human clinical data have demonstrated that the IgG Fc‐domain recapitulates the ability of intact IVIg with respect to its ability to trigger resolution of inflammation. We will further discuss how the findings already have or are in the process of being translated to novel therapeutic approaches to substitute IVIg in treating autoimmune inflammation.
Object play in Tajikistan: Infants engage with objects despite bounds on play
Authors: Karasik Lana B. , Schneider Joshua L. , Kuchirko Yana A. , Dodojonova Rano
Published: September 2024

Object play is a ubiquitous context for learning. Existing knowledge on infant object interaction has relied on Euro‐American samples and observations confined to laboratory playrooms or families' homes, where object play is typically observed indoors and in rooms brimming with toys. Here we examined infants' everyday object play in Tajikistan, where spaces are uniquely laid out and homes are not child‐centered and toy‐abundant. The restrictive gahvora cradling practice in Tajikistan may indirectly shape how infants access and engage with objects. We documented how much time infants spent in object play, the types and diversity of objects they contacted, and the locations of play—indoors or outside. We observed 59 infants (12–24 months) during a 45‐min naturalistic observation when infants were out of the gahvora. Infants engaged with objects 50% of the time. Despite a lack of object diversity, object interactions were frequent and dispersed throughout observations. Walkers tended to divide their object interactions between time spent indoors and outside, but pre‐walkers mostly interacted with objects indoors. Caregivers inadvertently shape infants' opportunities for exploration and play through culturally guided childrearing practices. And infants make due: they take it upon themselves to move, explore, and engage—gleaning culturally relevant routines.
Longitudinal interactions between maternal depression symptoms and familial stressful life events on child anxiety symptoms at 5 years of age
Authors: Valdes Viviane , Craighead Linda W. , Nelson Charles A. , Bosquet Enlow Michelle
Published: September 2024

In the current study we identified salient parental factors for child anxiety symptoms by considering the role of stressful life events, maternal anxiety symptoms, maternal depressive symptoms, and maternal neuroticism. Families (N = 399) in an urban area in the United States were participants in a longitudinal study beginning in infancy. Mothers completed measures of stressful life events (Revised Life Events Questionnaire at all visits), maternal anxiety and depressive symptoms (State–Trait Anxiety Inventory and Beck Depression Inventory, respectively, at infancy between 5 and 12 months, at 2 years, and at 3 years), maternal neuroticism (NEO Five–Factor Inventory at infancy), and child anxiety symptoms (Child Behavior Checklist 1.5–5 at 5 years). Linear mixed models (LMMs) were used in analyses. Maternal depressive symptoms from infancy through 3 years were associated with child anxiety symptoms; other main effects modeled (stressful life events, maternal anxiety symptoms, maternal neuroticism) were not associated with child anxiety symptoms. There was a significant interaction effect between stressful life events and maternal depression. Stressful events from infancy through 5 years of age increased risk for child anxiety symptoms at 5 years if the child's mother had a mild mood disturbance or depression, but not for children with non–depressed mothers.
Young People Transitioning From Child and Adolescent to Adult Mental Health Services: A Qualitative Systematic Review
Authors: Rosina Robyn , McMaster Rose , Lovecchio Victoria , Wu Chiung‐Jung
Published: September 2024

To critically synthesise the literature on the lived experience of young adults about their transition to adult mental health services including the perspectives of key people in their world: parents, carers and clinicians. Young people within child and adolescent mental health services are usually required to transition to adult mental health services at the age of 18, despite evidence showing cognitive and emotional development impacted by childhood trauma, illness and adverse life events. This qualitative systematic review searched relevant electronic databases, policy documents, grey literature and theses examining original qualitative peer‐reviewed studies published from 2009 to 2022 in English. The process utilised the PRISMA guidelines and the quality of papers assessed by the JBI critical appraisal tool. Nine papers met the criteria for inclusion in the review. The results indicate that qualitative research listening to the voices of young people transitioning to adult mental health services is a rarity. Even fewer papers examine the perspectives of key people in their lives: this review has critically synthesised the literature on the lived experience of young adults about their transition to adult mental health services including the perspectives of key people in their world: parents, carers and clinicians. The main themes identified include: age 18 is not a helpful trigger to transition; young people want more individualised planning; parents want more involvement and clinicians open up about a challenging nexus with adult mental health services.