bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of integrated marketing communications consistency on destination brand equity in times of uncertainty: the case of Croatia
Authors: Šerić Maja , Mikulić Josip
Published: October 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to examine how message consistency pursued through integrated marketing communications (IMC) can build a strong destination brand equity in a very dynamic environment and whether this process is affected by the perceived risk of COVID-19.

Design/methodology/approach

Data collection was conducted among 333 international tourists visiting Croatia, a destination that has experienced a remarkable boom in the summer/autumn season of 2021, regardless of the pandemic. Partial least squares–structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was used for data analysis.

Findings

Results show that IMC consistency has a significant impact on the four destination brand equity dimensions, i.e. awareness, image, perceived quality and loyalty. This influence is found to be the highest on destination brand awareness and the lowest on destination brand loyalty. Perceived risk of COVID-19 moderates the impact of message consistency on brand image and perceived quality.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study that examines the role of IMC consistency in a tourism context during turbulent times. The impact of IMC consistency is analyzed on different components of destination brand equity, which addresses the most recent research call from tourism literature. The moderating effects of perceived risk are considered, thus providing additional implications in a context of high uncertainty. Finally, IMC consistency is assessed from the consumer rather than managerial viewpoints, thus adopting the necessary outside-in approach embedded in the IMC idea.
Ferroptosis induced by the biocontrol agent Pythium oligandrum enhances soybean resistance to Phytophthora sojae
Authors: Cheng Yang , Zhang Huanxin , Zhu Wenyi , Li Qing , Meng Rui , Yang Kun , Guo Ziqian , Zhai Ying , Zhang Haijing , Ji Rui , Peng Hao , Dou Daolong , Jing Maofeng
Published: October 2022

Ferroptosis is a newly discovered form of cell death accompanied by iron accumulation and lipid peroxidation. Both biotic and abiotic stresses can induce ferroptosis in plant cells. In the case of plant interactions with pathogenic Phytophthora oomycetes, the roles of ferroptosis are still largely unknown. Here, we performed transcriptome analysis on soybean plants treated with the biocontrol agent Pythium oligandrum, a soilborne and non‐pathogenic oomycete capable of inducing plant resistance against Phytophthora sojae infection. Expression of homologous soybean genes involved in ferroptosis and resistance was reprogrammed upon P. oligandrum treatment. Typical hallmarks for characterizing ferroptosis were detected in soybean hypocotyl cells, including decreased glutathione (GSH) level, accumulation of ferric ions, and lipid peroxidation by reactive oxygen species (ROS). Meanwhile, ferroptosis‐like cell death was triggered by P. oligandrum to suppress P. sojae infection in soybean. Protection provided by P. oligandrum could be attenuated by the ferroptosis inhibitor ferrostatin‐1 (Fer‐1), suggesting the critical role of ferroptosis in soybean resistance against P. sojae. Taken together, these results demonstrate that ferroptosis is a P. oligandrum‐inducible defence mechanism against oomycete infection in soybean.
Health Centers and Value‐Based Payment: A Framework for Health Center Payment Reform and Early Experiences in Medicaid Value‐Based Payment in Seven States
Authors: TOBEY RACHEL , MAXWELL JAMES , TURER ERIC , SINGER ERIN , LINDENFELD ZOE , NOCON ROBERT S. , COLEMAN ALLISON , BOLTON JOSHUA , HOANG HANK , SRIPIPATANA ALEK , HUANG ELBERT S.
Published: October 2022

Policy Points

As essential access points to primary care for almost 29 million US patients, of whom 47% are Medicaid enrollees, health centers are positioned to implement the population health management necessary in value‐based payment (VBP) contracts.

Primary care payment reform requires multiple payment methodologies used together to provide flexibility to care providers, encourage investments in infrastructure and new services, and offer incentives for achieving better health outcomes.

State policy and significant financial incentives from Medicaid agencies and Medicaid managed care plans will likely be required to increase health center participation in VBP, which is consistent with broader state efforts to expand investment in primary care.

Context

Efforts are ongoing to advance value‐based payment (VBP), and health centers serve as essential access points to comprehensive primary care services for almost 29 million people in the United States. Therefore, it is important to assess the levels of health center participation in VBP, types of VBP contracts, characteristics of health centers participating in VBP, and variations in state policy environments that influence VBP participation.

Methods

This mixed methods study combined qualitative research on state policy environments and health center participation in VBP with quantitative analysis of Uniform Data System and health center financial data in seven vanguard states: Oregon, Washington, California, Colorado, New York, Hawaii, and Kentucky. VBP contracts were classified into three layers: base payments being transformed from visit‐based to population‐based (Layer 1), infrastructure and care coordination payments (Layer 2), and performance incentive payments (Layer 3).

Findings

Health centers in all seven states participated in Layer 2 and Layer 3 VBP, with VBP participation growing from 35% to 58% of all health centers in these states from 2013 to 2017. Among participating health centers, the average percentage of Medicaid revenue received as Layer 2 and Layer 3 VBP rose from 6.4% in 2013 to 9.1% in 2017. Oregon and Washington health centers participating in Layer 1 payment reforms received most of their Medicaid revenue in VBP. In 2017, VBP participation was associated with larger health center size in four states (P <.05), and higher average number of days cash on hand (P <.05) in three states.

Conclusions

A multilayer payment model is useful for implementing and monitoring VBP adoption among health centers. State policy, financial incentives from Medicaid agencies and Medicaid managed plans, and health center–Medicaid collaboration under strong primary care association and health center leadership will likely be required to increase health center participation in VBP.
Screening of lactic acid bacteria strains with urate‐lowering effect from fermented dairy products
Authors: Zhu Jun , Li Yanjun , Chen Zuoguo , Gao Kan , Lin Guodong , Chen Su , Li Li , Ge Hongjuan
Published: October 2022

Hyperuricemia is a well‐known cause of gout and also a risk factor for various comorbidities. Current agents like xanthine oxidase inhibitors prevent hyperuricemia, but usually induce severe side effects. Alternative strategies, such as novel dietary supplementations, are necessary for the management of hyperuricemia. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) have been used in human diet for a long time with a good safety record. In this study, 345 LAB strains isolated from traditional fermented dairy products were tested for assimilating abilities of guanosine. Two LAB strains, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus 1155 (LR1155) and Limosilactobacillus fermentum 2644 (LF2644), showing great capacities of guanosine transformation and degradation were selected. Compared to LR1155, LF2644 showed a better effect with 100.00% transforming rate and 55.10% degrading rate. In an in vivo test, a hyperuricemic rat model was established and the results showed that administration of LR1155 (p < 0.01) or LF2644 (p < 0.01) prevented the rise of serum uric acid with more than 20% decrease when compared with the hyperuricemia rats. In addition, an increased fecal uric acid level was observed in LF2644 or LR1155 treated rats (LR1155‐M p < 0.05, others p < 0.01). This study proved that LR1155 and LF2644 can be promising candidates of dietary supplements for prevention or improvement of hyperuricemia.

Practical Application

The LAB strains tested in this study could be considered as good potential probiotic candidates for dietary supplements because of their urate‐lowering effects, which provide a novel antihyperuricemic strategy with advantages of safety and sustainability.
Pre‐instrumental perspectives on Arkansas River cross‐watershed flow variability
Authors: Torbenson Max C. A. , Stahle David W. , Howard Ian M. , Blackstock Joshua M. , Cleaveland Malcolm K. , Stagge James H.
Published: October 2022

We present four reconstruction estimates of Arkansas River baseflow and streamflow using a total of 78 tree‐ring chronologies for three streamflow gages, geographically spanning the headwaters in Colorado to near the confluence of the Arkansas‐Mississippi rivers. The estimates represent different seasonal windows, which are dictated by the shared limiting forcing of precipitation on seasonal tree growth and soil moisture—and subsequently on the variability of Arkansas River discharge. Flow extremes that were higher and lower than what has been observed in the instrumental era are recorded in each of the four reconstructions. Years of concurrent, cross‐basin (all sites) low flow appear more frequently during the 20th and 21st Centuries compared to any period since 1600 A.D., however, no significant trend in cross‐basin low flow is observed. As the most downstream major tributary of the Mississippi River, the Arkansas River directly influences flood risk in the Lower Mississippi River Valley. Estimates of extreme high flow in downstream reconstructions coincide with specific years of historic flooding documented in New Orleans, Louisiana, just upstream of the Mississippi River Delta. By deduction, Mississippi River flooding in years of low Arkansas River flow imply exceptional flooding contributions from the Upper Mississippi River catchments.
Machine learning applications in river research: Trends, opportunities and challenges
Authors: Ho Long , Goethals Peter
Published: October 2022

As one of the earth's key ecosystems, rivers have been intensively studied and modelled through the application of machine learning (ML). With the amount of large data available, these computer algorithms are ever increasing in numerous fields, although there is ongoing scepticism and scholars still question the actual impact and deliverables of algorithms.

This study aims to provide a systematic review of the state‐of‐the‐art ML‐based techniques, trends, opportunities and challenges in river research by applying text mining and automated content analysis.

Unsupervised and supervised learning have dominated river research while neural networks and deep learning have also gradually gained popularity. Matrix factorisation and linear models have been the most popular ML algorithms, with around 1300 and 800 publications on these topics in 2020 respectively. In contrast, river researchers have had few applications in multiclass and multilabel algorithm, associate rule and Naïve Bayes.

The current article proposes an end‐to‐end workflow of ML applications in river research in order to tackle major ML challenges, including four steps: (1) data collection and preparation; (2) model evaluation and selection; (3) model application; and (4) feedback loops. Within this workflow, river modellers have to balance numerous trade‐offs related to model traits, such as complexity, accuracy, interpretability, bias, data privacy and accessibility and spatial and temporal scales. Any choices made when balancing the trade‐offs can lead to different model outcomes affecting the final applications. Hence, it is necessary to carefully consider and specify modelling goals, understand the data collected and maintain feedback loops in order to continuously improve model performance and eventually reach the research objectives. Moreover, it remains crucial to address the users' needs and demands that often entail additional elements, such as computational cost, development time and the quantity, quality and compatibility of data. Furthermore, river researchers should account for new technologies and regulations in data collection and protection that are transforming the development and applications of ML, most notably data warehouse and information management with multiple‐cycles that are becoming a cornerstone of the integration of ML in decision‐making in river and ecosystem management.
Dodd–Frank's impact on community‐bank investment models: A Bayesian structural time series analysis
Authors: Lee Yen Teik , Caton Gary L. , Gamble Edward N. , Kerins Francis
Published: October 2022

We use Bayesian structural time series (BSTS) methodology to test whether the Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 (DF) caused changes in community bank business models. The BSTS methodology uses the pre‐DF period to create synthetic counterfactuals for community‐bank dependent variables of interest. In the post‐DF period, the counterfactuals become predictions of the dependent variables had DF not been enacted. Comparing post‐DF predicted versus actual dependent variables allows us to estimate the causal impact of DF on these variables of interest. We find that relative to assets, community banks significantly reduce their lending activities and significantly increase investment in securities and excess reserves.
Comparison of self‐reported alcohol consumption and ethyl glucuronide in hair in a sample of 60+ year ‐olds treated for DSM‐5 alcohol use disorder
Authors: Nielsen Dorthe Grüner , Andersen Kjeld , Nielsen Anette Søgaard , Nielsen Flemming , Behrendt Silke , Bilberg Randi , Bogenschutz Michael , Bühringer Gerhard , Mellentin Angelina Isabella
Published: October 2022

There is a lack of evidence for the consistency between self‐reported alcohol consumption (SRAC) and concentrations of ethyl glucuronide in hair (hEtG) among elderly patients treated exclusively for alcohol use disorder (AUD). Hence, this study assessed the consistency between these two measures in these patients. A total of 190 patients with AUD were assessed for SRAC using Form 90 and hEtG, 14 or 22 weeks after treatment conclusion. Patients were grouped according to SRAC (g/day) and corresponding hEtG concentrations (pg/mg): 0 and <5 (abstinence), 0.1–14.3 and 5.0–9.9 (low consumption), 14.4–21.4 and 10.0–15.9 (moderate consumption), 21.5–59.9 and 16.0–30 (high consumption) and ≥60 and >30 (excessive consumption). The extent of underreporting and overreporting was examined by crosstabulations, and inter‐rater reliability was reported by kappa correlations. Associations and effect modification were examined by conditional logistic regression. Due to multitesting, p‐values ≤0.01 were considered significant. Underreporting was found in 96 patients (50.5%) and overreporting in 41 patients (21.6%). The kappa coefficients varied between 0.19 and 0.34. HEtG was more likely to detect low, moderate and high alcohol consumption compared with SRAC (ORs between 5.1 and 12.6, all p‐values <0.01), but SRAC and hEtG did not differ significantly with respect to identification of abstinence (OR = 1.9, p = 0.05). Inconsistency between the outcome measures was found in a considerable number of the patients. More studies examining the consistency between SRAC and specific direct biomarkers of alcohol in this population seem warranted.
Neural signaling of methamphetamine craving and seeking intensified by bupropion in the ventral tegmental area–cortico–accumbens circuitry in mice
Authors: Nukitram Jakkrit , Cheaha Dania , Thawaii Suppachai , Niyomdecha Saree , Kumarnsit Ekkasit
Published: October 2022

Previously, bupropion (BUP), a norepinephrine (NE)/dopamine (DA) transporter blocker and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) antagonist, was found to intensify methamphetamine (METH) craving behaviours in mice. Intense craving causes relapse in drug dependence. This study characterized local field potential (LFP) patterns in the brain regions associated with METH‐conditioned place preference (CPP) enhanced by BUP. Male Swiss albino ICR mice were implanted with LFP electrodes to the ventral tegmental area (VTA), medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and the nucleus accumbens core (NAcc). Animals received sessions to learn the association between injection effects (1 mg/kg METH and normal saline) with contextual environments (METH‐ and saline‐paired compartments) during the conditioning phase. A total of 20 mg/kg BUP was given to animals before LFP, and behaviour recording in the CPP apparatus during the post‐conditioning phase. The results showed that increased CPP scores and % number of entries to the METH‐paired zone, as well as changes in VTA, mPFC and NAcc spectral powers and coherence among these areas, were associated with METH‐CPP. Treatment with BUP increased VTA delta and gamma I, decreased mPFC alpha, increased NAcc gamma I and decreased gamma II powers. Coherence analyses revealed that BUP decreased gamma II VTA–mPFC and increased beta and gamma I VTA–NAcc connectivity. Altogether, BUP produced additional effects to that of METH‐CPP alone. These findings demonstrated changes in neural circuit activities associated with METH‐CPP intensified by BUP. Moreover, modulation of NE/DA systems and/or nAChRs actions in the VTA–cortico–accumbens loop might underlie METH craving and dependence.
Drought limits large trees in African savannas with or without elephants
Authors: Jones Maggie M. , Fletcher Robert , Kruger Laurence , Monadjem Ara , Simelane Phumlile , McCleery Robert
Published: October 2022

Consumers, including megaherbivores and fire, are considered important limiting forces for woody plants and canopy closure in African savannas. However, climatic events like drought can also play a significant role in limiting trees and maintaining tree‐grass coexistence in savannas. The extent to which top‐down control (e.g. megaherbivores) and bottom‐up resource limitation through drought and competition interact to influence savanna tree mortality and woody structure is unclear. Here, we compared the change in the number of large trees before and after a severe drought in a savanna with elephants (Loxodonta africana) and one without elephants. Elephants and drought both limited the number of large trees at our sites, but contrary to our predictions, there was no interactive effect of these drivers on overall changes in tree densities. However, there was a synergistic effect on the dominant tree species, Senegalia nigrescens, such that tree loss post‐drought was greater where elephants were present compared to where they were absent. Hence, our results suggest that species‐specific differences in drought resistance, as well as density‐dependent factors, likely impact the severity of drought effects on savanna tree communities. In savannas, drought has the potential to exert strong control on tree survival and prevent canopy closure, thus partially filling the role of megaherbivores in limiting large trees when these consumers are absent. As drought severity and frequency are predicted to increase in the future, the influence of drought on savanna vegetation structure becomes increasingly important to consider.
Finding appropriate nickel‐titanium instruments for lingual canals in mandibular first premolars with two canals: A micro‐CT study
Authors: Wang Yunqin , Lu Yaqian , Gu Yongchun , Cai Yixin , Zhang Chengfei , Li Jin
Published: October 2022

This study aimed to find appropriate nickel‐titanium instruments for lingual canals in mandibular first premolars with two canals. Forty‐two extracted mandibular first premolars with lingual canals (Vertucci type V) verified by micro‐CT scanning were selected. The teeth were randomly divided into three groups, and their lingual canals were instrumented by M3, HyFlex CM and XP‐endo Shaper, respectively. After instrumentation, the canal morphology was scanned again by micro‐CT. The canal morphologies of pre‐ and post‐instrumentation were reconstructed and aligned. Morphological changes of the lingual canals were evaluated. No instrument breakages occurred during the procedure of root canal instrumentation. HyFlex CM and XP‐endo Shaper performed better than M3 files in preparation of lingual canals (Vertucci type V) of mandibular first premolars in terms of apical transportation and unprepared surface area.
Posttraumatic stress disorder in Chinese methamphetamine patients: Prevalence, demographics, and clinical correlates
Authors: Jiang Wei , Tian Yang , Fan Fusheng , Fu Fabing , Wei Dejun , Tang Shanshan , Chen Jiajing , Li Yuqing , Zhu Rongrong , Wang Li , Shi Zhanbiao , Wang Dongmei , Zhang Xiang‐Yang
Published: October 2022

Background and Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and clinical correlates in Chinese methamphetamine patients.

Methods

We analyzed 481 Chinese methamphetamine patients.

Results

The prevalence of PTSD among Chinese methamphetamine patients was 7.90% (38/481), which was higher than in western countries. Binary logistic regression showed that age, smoking, abstinence time, age of onset, and DDQ control dimensions were associated with PTSD.

Conclusions and Scientific Significance

Our results indicated that some demographic and clinical variables were associated with PTSD in Chinese methamphetamine patients, which provided evidence for PTSD comorbidity with methamphetamine.
From co‐design to co‐production: Approaches, enablers, and constraints in developing a public health, capacity‐building solution
Authors: Cosgrave Catherine , Kennedy Alison , Dietrich Timo , Gunn Kate , MacDonald Joanna , McKay Claire , Cunningham Sally , Haren Sam , Lewis Josh
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Investigating how co‐designed knowledge can be translated to co‐produce a public health capacity‐building solution for difficult‐to‐engage population groups drawing on the co‐production experience of a prevention‐focused, capacity‐building mental health solution targeting primary producers.

Design

A qualitative study undertaken in rural and regional Victoria involving members of the design working group including project team (7px), digital design team (5px), marketing team (3px), and funding partner representatives. The study design involved reflective practice to collect data to identify the phases of co‐production and assess the design working group members' experiences. The analysis involved inductive coding using Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis.

Objective

Identifying major points of divergence and/or convergence; enablers and/or constraints; and ways to better navigate and strengthen the co‐production process.

Finding

Given members of the design working group, diverse skills sets divergence was experienced in all co‐production phases. Divergence was also experienced between the project team and the funding partner given the uniqueness of working conditions and requirements of workers in the primary production industry. The project team applied an iterative development process to project management; encouraging iterative cycles to create/test/revise among the teams, and with the funding partner, until each was satisfied with the end result (convergence).

Discussion & Conclusion

When developing a co‐created public health prevention campaign it is critical that the project team focuses on relationship building among the members of the design working group and ensures adequate resourcing, development of shared understanding of project goals and target audience, ongoing communication, and a commitment to working iteratively.
Effects of treatment for diabetes mellitus on testosterone concentrations: A systematic review
Authors: Van Cauwenberghe Jolijn , De Block Christophe , Vanderschueren Dirk , Antonio Leen
Published: October 2022

Background

Low testosterone levels are frequently present in men with obesity and insulin resistance. Currently available treatment options (testosterone replacement therapy or lifestyle changes) hold possible risks or are insufficient. Since low testosterone levels are closely related to obesity and type 2 diabetes, treatment modalities for these conditions could result into improvement of testosterone levels.

Objectives

To summarize the available evidence on the effects of traditional and recent treatment modalities for diabetes mellitus on testosterone levels and androgen‐deficiency‐related signs and symptoms.

Materials and methods

PubMed was searched from the year 2000 till present using MESH terms: “hypogonadism,” “testosterone,” “testosterone deficiency,” “functional hypogonadism,” and the different classes of medications. Studies with observational and experimental designs on humans that evaluated the effect of antidiabetic medications on gonadotropins and testosterone were eligible for inclusion.

Results

Current available data show no or only limited improvement on testosterone levels with the classic antidiabetic drugs. Studies with GLP1‐receptor analogues show beneficial effects on both body weight and testosterone levels in men with low testosterone levels and obesity with or without type 2 diabetes. However, data are limited to small and heterogeneous study groups and only few studies report data about impact on androgen‐deficiency‐related signs and symptoms.

Discussion and conclusion

With the recent advances in the knowledge of the pathophysiological pathways in obesity, there is an enormous progress in the development of medications for obesity and type 2 diabetes. Newer incretin‐based agents have a great potential for the treatment of functional hypogonadism due to obesity since they show promising weight reducing results. However, before the use of GLP1‐receptor analogues can be suggested to treat functional hypogonadism, further studies are needed.
Cortisol modulates Ca2+ signaling and acrosome reaction in human sperm
Authors: Sánchez González Sheini Ruturi , Mata Martínez Esperanza , Torres Juárez Jorge Arturo , Arias Rodolfo José , De Blas Gerardo Andrés , Sánchez Tusie Ana Alicia
Published: October 2022

Background

Stress and elevated cortisol levels have negative effects on fertility, although there is controversy about the effect of cortisol on human sperm. One study reported that hydrocortisone (HC), the synthetic form of cortisol, does not activate CatSper channel but is able to inhibit its activation by progesterone (Pg). However, subsequent reports showed that HC has an agonist effect on CatSper, producing intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) increases. These studies were performed using only electrophysiological techniques and fluorometric measurements of Ca2+. Therefore, it is important to evaluate the effects of different HC concentrations on human sperm physiology using other approaches and techniques.

Objective

To analyze the effects of different HC concentrations on human sperm physiology and to evaluate the association of perceived stress, anxiety and depression with acrosome reaction (AR), and semen quality.

Materials and methods

In capacitated human sperm, we tested the effects of HC on [Ca2+]i mobilization and AR. Furthermore, the perceived stress and symptoms of anxiety and depression were evaluated with standardized psychometric tests.

Results

HC induces a low increase in [Ca2+]i compared to Pg response while, at higher concentrations, HC inhibits the Pg‐induced Ca2+ response. Also, low concentrations of HC induce AR and when co‐incubating it with Pg, the percentages of AR are decreased. Finally, the anxiety symptoms are negatively correlated with Pg induced AR and semen quality.

Discussion

HC has an agonist effect on [Ca2+]i mobilization and AR. However, our data also suggest that HC may compete for the binding site of Pg. Additionally, the association between anxiety and decreased AR could be explained by high cortisol levels.

Conclusion

Our data showed that HC interferes with the Pg action. Therefore, the negative correlation between anxiety symptoms and Pg‐induced AR is due to the accompanying high cortisol levels of this condition and its competitive action with Pg.
Testosterone in males with COVID‐19: a 12‐month cohort study
Authors: Salonia Andrea , Pontillo Marina , Capogrosso Paolo , Pozzi Edoardo , Ferrara Anna Maria , Cotelessa Alice , Belladelli Federico , Corsini Christian , Gregori Silvia , Rowe Isaline , Carenzi Cristina , Ramirez Giuseppe A. , Tresoldi Cristina , Locatelli Massimo , Cavalli Giulio , Dagna Lorenzo , Castagna Antonella , Zangrillo Alberto , Tresoldi Moreno , Landoni Giovanni , Rovere‐Querini Patrizia , Ciceri Fabio , Montorsi Francesco
Published: October 2022

Background

Male patients with COVID‐19 have been found with reduced serum total testosterone (tT) levels and with more severe clinical outcomes.

Objectives

To assess total testosterone (tT) levels and the probability of recovering eugonadal tT levels during a minimum 12‐month timespan in a cohort of men who have been followed over time after the recovery from laboratory‐confirmed COVID‐19.

Materials and methods

Demographic, clinical and hormonal values were collected for the overall cohort. Hypogonadism was defined as tT ≤9.2 nmol/l. The Charlson Comorbidity Index was used to score health‐significant comorbidities. Descriptive statistics was used to compare hormonal levels at baseline versus 7‐month (FU1) versus 12‐month (FU2) follow‐up, respectively. Multivariate cox proportional hazards regression model was used to identify the potential predictors of eugonadism recovery over time among patients with hypogonadism at the time of infection.

Results

Of the original cohort of 286 patients, follow‐up data were available for 121 (42.3%) at FU1 and 63 (22%) patients at FU2, respectively. Higher median interquartile range (IQR) tT levels were detected at FU2 (13.8 (12.3–15.3) nmol/L) versus FU1 (10.2 [9.3–10.9] nmol/L) and versus baseline (3.6 [3.02–4.02] nmol/L) (all p < 0.0001), whilst both LH and E2 levels significantly decreased over the same time frame (all p ≤ 0.01). Circulating IL‐6 levels further decreased at FU2 compared to FU1 levels (19.3 vs. 72.8 pg/ml) (p = 0.02). At multivariable cox regression analyses, baseline tT level (HR 1.19; p = 0.03 [1.02–1.4]) was independently associated with the probability of tT level normalization over time, after adjusting for potential confounders.

Conclusions

Circulating tT levels keep increasing over time in men after COVID‐19. Still, almost 30% of men who recovered from COVID‐19 had low circulating T levels suggestive for a condition of hypogonadism at a minimum 12‐month follow‐up.
Days alive and out of hospital after laparoscopic cholecystectomy
Authors: Alexander Harry , Moore Matthew , Hannam Jacqueline , Poole Garth , Bartlett Adam , Merry Alan
Published: October 2022

Background

Days alive and out of hospital (DAOH) is a metric that incorporates several outcomes into a single, standardized measure. This study aimed to explore the utility of DAOH in assessing the outcomes of a retrospective cohort of patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC).

Methods

Patients undergoing LC at Auckland City Hospital between 1 January 2010 and 31 August 2015 were included. DAOH values were calculated for the 90 days from the date of surgery (DAOH90) and described using median and interquartile ranges (IQR). DAOH90 distributions were compared using a two‐tailed (non‐parametric) Wilcoxon‐Mann–Whitney test.

Results

1652 patients undergoing LC were studied. Patients experiencing complications (n = 70, 4.2%) had fewer DAOH90 (median 83, IQR 79, 86) than patients who underwent uncomplicated LC (median 88, IQR 86, 88), P < 0.001. Patients who were converted to open cholecystectomy (n = 70, 4.2%) also had fewer DAOH90 (median 82.5, IQR 79, 84) than patients who underwent uncomplicated LC, P < 0.001. Post‐operative complications and conversion had a statistically significant effect on DAOH90 at each of the tested quantiles, except for conversion at the 0.1 quantile.

Conclusion

DAOH90 is readily calculable from existing New Zealand administrative data sources and is sensitive to the occurrence of complications after LC.
The developmental leader
Authors: Yülek Murat Ali , Akkemik K. Ali
Published: October 2022

The role of the leader in economic development and in the formation of the developmental state is overlooked in the standard development economics literature. The developmental state is a state with adequate ‘state capacity’ to achieve successful policy design and implementation to reach developmental objectives. Developmental leaders have played an important role in the formation and administration of the developmental state, which has driven East Asian industrialisation and economic development. In contrast to standard political leaders, including populists, developmental leaders have envisioned, ignited and then administered successful economic development processes. In this study, we introduce and discuss the notion of the developmental leader (primarily in East Asia) through a selective theoretical and empirical analysis of developmental leaders.
Spatial cognition mechanism of health: The relationship between perceived accessibility of medical facilities and health and health behaviour
Authors: He Jun , Wang Xinxian , Gao Xiangdong
Published: October 2022

There is no consistent conclusion on the impact of improving the physical accessibility of medical facilities/resources on the utilisation of medical facilities and health outcomes, which may be due to neglecting the role of spatial cognition of physical facilities, which will be directly related to health behaviour and outcomes. This article uses China Migrants Dynamic Survey to examine the relationship between perceived accessibility of medical facilities and health and health behaviour. The results show that perceived accessibility is positively associated with health and related behaviour. The higher the perceived accessibility to the medical facilities, the better the subjective and objective health status of migrant residents. Similarly, the more positive the preventive and healthcare‐seeking behaviour is. This study suggests that public policymakers need to intervene in residents' spatial cognition of medical resources around their neighbourhoods to enhance the collective benefits of medical facilities.
Combining Parametric and Nonparametric Models to Estimate Treatment Effects in Observational Studies
Authors: Daly-Grafstein Daniel , Gustafson Paul
Published: October 2022

Performing causal inference in observational studies requires we assume confounding variables are correctly adjusted for. In settings with few discrete-valued confounders, standard models can be employed. However, as the number of confounders increases these models become less feasible as there are fewer observations available for each unique combination of confounding variables. In this paper, we propose a new model for estimating treatment effects in observational studies that incorporates both parametric and nonparametric outcome models. By conceptually splitting the data, we can combine these models while maintaining a conjugate framework, allowing us to avoid the use of Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) methods. Approximations using the central limit theorem and random sampling allow our method to be scaled to high-dimensional confounders. Through simulation studies we show our method can be competitive with benchmark models while maintaining efficient computation, and illustrate the method on a large epidemiological health survey.
The effects of social interactions on momentary stress and mood during COVID‐19 lockdowns
Authors: Forbes Paul A. G. , Pronizius Ekaterina , Feneberg Anja C. , Nater Urs M. , Piperno Giulio , Silani Giorgia , Stijovic Ana , Lamm Claus
Published: October 2022

Objective

Social interactions are vital for our well‐being, particularly during times of stress. However, previous studies linking social interactions to psychological outcomes during the COVID‐19 pandemic have largely been retrospective and/or cross‐sectional. Thus, we tested four preregistered hypotheses (H1–H4) concerning the real‐time effect of social interactions on momentary changes in stress and mood during two COVID‐19 lockdowns.

Design

We used an ecological momentary assessment approach in 732 participants in spring 2020 (burst 1) and in a subsample of these participants (n = 281) during a further lockdown in autumn/winter 2020 (burst 2).

Methods

Participants reported their stress and mood in a smartphone app five times per day for 7 days and indicated the nature and frequency of their recent social interactions.

Results

Social interactions (H1) and their frequency (H2) improved momentary affect (e.g., social interactions increased mood valence: estimate = 2.605, p < .001 for burst 1). This was particularly the case for face‐to‐face interactions which, compared with other types of interactions, reduced momentary stress (e.g., estimate = −2.285, p < .001 for burst 1) and boosted mood (e.g., estimate = 1.759, p < .001 for burst 1) across both lockdowns, even when controlling for the pleasantness of the interaction and the closeness of the interaction partner (H3). We also show that individual differences in people's responsiveness to different social rewards modulated the impact of social interactions on momentary mood (H4).

Conclusions

This study extends findings from cross‐sectional and retrospective studies by highlighting the real‐time affective benefits of social interactions during COVID‐19 lockdown. The results have important implications for the (self‐) management of stress and mood during psychologically demanding periods.
Critical success factors for the innovativeness of the electronic industry: An analysis in developed and developing countries
Authors: Dos‐Santos Sergio Matos , Pacagnella Junior Antonio Carlos , Fournier Pierre‐Luc , Morini Cristiano , Santa‐Eulalia Luis Antonio
Published: October 2022

The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of critical success factors (CSFs) on the innovativeness of the electronic industry. We propose a novel conceptual model. To validate the model, we used structural equation modelling. Data were collected in a survey with 261 responses from companies in Brazil, Canada and the USA. A multigroup analysis was carried out. The results for the whole sample show that all the CSF investigated have a positive and significant influence at 1% on innovativeness, with the greatest influence obtained by the construct innovative culture and strategy, followed by research and development infrastructure, management knowledge and the innovative environment. The originality lies (1) in a proposition of a novel theoretical model that investigates both the individual effect and joint action of the constructs related to CSF, in a broader set of CSF; (2) in a deeper analysis of the relationship between innovativeness with the innovation performance of organizations in the electronic industry; (3) in a different dimension of analysis comparison considering three different innovation systems; and (4) in a managerial contribution by encouraging the construction of an organizational culture that has as its values the constant search for innovation and for encouraging the creation of innovative solutions.
S2k Leitlinie: Diagnostik und Therapie des chronischen Pruritus
Authors: Ständer Sonja , Zeidler Claudia , Augustin Matthias , Darsow Ulf , Kremer Andreas E. , Legat Franz J. , Koschmieder Steffen , Kupfer Jörg , Mettang Thomas , Metz Martin , Nast Alexander , Raap Ulrike , Schneider Gudrun , Ständer Hartmut , Streit Markus , Schut Christina , Weisshaar Elke
Published: October 2022

Pruritus ist ein fachübergreifendes Leitsymptom zahlreicher Erkrankungen und stellt eine interdisziplinäre diagnostische und therapeutische Herausforderung dar. Im Gegensatz zu akutem Pruritus ist chronischer Pruritus (CP) ein zumeist schwer behandelbares Symptom verschiedener Erkrankungen. Durch Kratzen und Ausbildung Kratz‐assoziierter Hautveränderungen kann der ursprüngliche Hautstatus verändert werden. Bei Vorliegen eines Juck‐Kratz‐Zirkels können sich sogar sekundäre Krankheitsbilder wie die chronische Prurigo entwickeln. Chronischer Pruritus führt zu erheblichem subjektivem Leiden der Betroffenen, was sich in Einschränkungen der gesundheits‐bezogenen Lebensqualität wie Schlafstörungen, Angst, Depressivität, Erleben von Stigmatisierung und/oder sozialem Rückzug bis hin zu klinisch relevanten psychischen Komorbiditäten führen kann. Die Versorgung der Patienten soll somit die (a) interdisziplinäre Diagnostik und Therapie der auslösenden Grunderkrankung, (b) Therapie der sekundären Folgesymptome des Pruritus (dermatologische Therapie, Schlafförderung, bei einer begleitenden oder zugrundeliegenden psychischen oder psychosomatischen Erkrankung eine entsprechende psychologisch‐psychotherapeutische Behandlung) und (c) symptomatische antipruritische Therapie umfassen. Das Ziel dieser interdisziplinär erstellten Leitlinie ist es, das therapeutische Vorgehen, aber auch die interdisziplinäre Diagnostik bei CP zu definieren und zu standardisieren. Dies ist die Kurzversion der aktualisierten S2k‐Leitlinie zu chronischem Pruritus. Die Langversion findet sich unter www.awmf.org.
Fixes Arzneimittelexanthem – häufige und neue Auslöser seit dem Jahr 2000
Authors: McClatchy Jessica , Yap Tami , Nirenberg Alexander , Scardamaglia Laura
Published: October 2022

Fixe Arzneimittelexantheme (FAE) sind häufige unerwünschte Arzneimittelreaktionen der Haut, die nach Verabreichung auslösender Medikamente auftreten. Ziel dieser Übersicht ist es, eine aktualisierte Auflistung der Medikamente vorzulegen, die ein FAE verursachen. Dabei liegt der Schwerpunkt auf neu in Erscheinung getretene Auslöser, die seit Beginn des Jahrhunderts dokumentiert wurden. Die veröffentlichten Auslöser von FAE sind sehr vielfältig. Zu den am häufigsten mit FAE in Verbindung gebrachten Medikamenten gehören Analgetika (nichtsteroidale Antirheumatika [NSAR] und Paracetamol) und Antibiotika. Der am besten beschriebene Einzelwirkstoff ist wohl Cotrimoxazol. Seit Beginn des Jahrhunderts wurden mehr als 200 Medikamente in Fallberichten zum FAE genannt. Bedeutende neuartige Wirkstoffe sind unter anderem Cyclooxygenase‐2‐spezifische Inhibitoren, Fluconazol und Phosphodiesterase‐5‐Hemmer. Weitere mit FAE in Verbindung gebrachte Medikamente sind Impfstoffe, zum Beispiel verschiedene Impfstoffe gegen SARS‐CoV‐2.

Medikamente, die für ein FAE verantwortlich gemacht werden, unterscheiden sich nach geografischer Region und der Verschreibungsmuster zu bestimmten Zeitpunkten. Neuere Medikamente kommen weiterhin auf den Markt und spielen eine wachsende Rolle für FAE. Bewusstsein hinsichtlich seltenerer Auslöser und neu in Erscheinung tretender Wirkstoffe kann dabei helfen, Auslöser zu erkennen. Dies ermöglicht die unverzügliche Absetzung des verursachenden Wirkstoffs und kann damit ein Rezidiv verhindern.
Drug shortages: A systems view of the current state
Authors: van Oorschot Kim E. , Van Wassenhove Luk N. , Jahre Marianne , Selviaridis Kostas , de Vries Harwin
Published: October 2022

The objective of this thought leadership article is to create a systems view of drug shortages based on the perceptions of practitioners and policymakers. We develop a comprehensive framework describing what stakeholders are currently doing when faced with drug shortages and show the outcomes of their actions. In a review of practitioner literature and public reports published from 2010 to 2020, we identify cause‐and‐effect relationships related to generic drug shortages in six high‐income European countries (Belgium, France, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and the UK) in normal times. By combining and connecting data from these different sources, we develop a systems view of the current state. Though several of the associations covered in the systems view are well known, putting them all together and considering their interrelationships is what is offered by this research. Based on this systems view, we derive three basic solution archetypes for drug shortages: (1) let the market handle it; (2) search for alternatives; and (3) bend the rules. The interactions between these archetypes generate causal ambiguity making it harder to understand and solve the problem as the side effects of solutions can be missed. We show how the interaction of archetypes can compromise intended behavior or escalate unintended behavior. However, our systems view allows us to suggest higher‐level solution archetypes that overrule such side effects. The basic and higher‐order solution archetypes can provide baselines for research and support the development of future interventions.
Removal of biliary plastic stent using a novel spiral dilator for reliable stent replacement
Authors: Mandai Koichiro , Inoue Naonori
Published: October 2022

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Neutral processes related to regional bee commonness and dispersal distances are important predictors of plant–pollinator networks along gradients of climate and landscape conditions
Authors: Sydenham M. A. K. , Venter Z. S. , Moe S. R. , Eldegard K. , Kuhlmann M. , Reitan T. , Rasmussen C. , Paxton R. , Dupont Y. L. , Skrindo A. B. , Hegland S. J. , Nielsen A. , Olesen J. M. , Nowell M. , Rusch G. M.
Published: October 2022

Understanding how niche‐based and neutral processes contribute to the spatial variation in plant–pollinator interactions is central to designing effective pollination conservation schemes. Such schemes are needed to reverse declines of wild bees and other pollinating insects, and to promote pollination services to wild and cultivated plants. We used data on wild bee interactions with plants belonging to the four tribes Loteae, Trifolieae, Anthemideae and either spring‐ or summer‐flowering Cichorieae, sampled systematically along a 682 km latitudinal gradient to build models that allowed us to 1) predict occurrences of pairwise bee–flower interactions across 115 sampling locations, and 2) estimate the contribution of variables hypothesized to be related to niche‐based assembly structuring processes (viz. annual mean temperature, landscape diversity, bee sociality, bee phenology and flower preferences of bees) and neutral processes (viz. regional commonness and dispersal distance to conspecifics). While neutral processes were important predictors of plant–pollinator distributions, niche‐based processes were reflected in the contrasting distributions of solitary bee and bumble bees along the temperature gradient, and in the influence of bee flower preferences on the distribution of bee species across plant types. In particular, bee flower preferences separated bees into three main groups, albeit with some overlap: visitors to spring‐flowering Cichorieae; visitors to Anthemideae and summer‐flowering Cichorieae; and visitors to Trifolieae and Loteae. Our findings suggest that both neutral and niche‐based processes are significant contributors to the spatial distribution of plant–pollinator interactions so that conservation actions in our region should be directed towards areas: near high concentrations of known occurrences of regionally rare bees; in mild climatic conditions; and that are surrounded by heterogenous landscapes. Given the observed niche‐based differences, the proportion of functionally distinct plants in flower‐mixes could be chosen to target bee species, or guilds, of conservation concern.
The political globalization trilemma revisited: An empirical assessment across countries and over time
Authors: Funke Michael , Zhong Doudou
Published: October 2022

The political globalization trilemma asserts that a government cannot simultaneously opt for deep international integration, national sovereignty and democratic politics, but rather is constrained to choosing two of the three at most. This paper employs cross‐country panel data operationalizing the multifaceted three vertices of the trilemma. After explorative data analysis, we employ panel error‐correction techniques to uncover the mutual interdependencies among the variables in the system. The econometric evidence supports the existence of a long‐run relationship between economic integration, national sovereignty and democratic politics as postulated in the political globalization trilemma.