bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is SARS‐CoV‐2‐induced disease a decisive factor influencing testosterone in males? Findings from a case‐control ex post facto study
Authors: Capogrosso Paolo , Bertini Alessandro , Pontillo Marina , Ferrara Anna Maria , Cotelessa Alice , Carenzi Cristina , Ramirez Giuseppe A. , Tresoldi Cristina , Locatelli Massimo , Castagna Antonella , De Cobelli Francesco , Tresoldi Moreno , Zangrillo Alberto , Landoni Giovanni , Rovere‐Querini Patrizia , Ciceri Fabio , Montorsi Francesco , Monti Giacomo , Salonia Andrea
Published: November 2023

Background

Whether the observed lower total testosterone (tT) levels in male patients with COVID‐19 are caused by a direct impact of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection or are collateral phenomena shared by other systemic inflammatory conditions has not yet been clarified.

Objectives

To investigate the independent role of COVID‐19 in reducing circulating tT levels in men.

Materials and methods

We compared demographic, clinical, and hormonal values of patients with laboratory confirmed COVID‐19 admitted during the first wave of the pandemic with a cohort of consecutive male patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) of the same academic center because of severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) but without SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and no previous history of COVID‐19. Linear regression model tested the independent impact of COVID‐19 on circulating tT levels. Logistic regression model was used to test predictors of death in the entire cohort.

Results

Of 286 patients with COVID‐19, 70 men had been admitted to the ICU ( = cases) and were compared to 79 patients equally admitted to ICU because of severe ARDS but negative for SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and without previous history of COVID‐19 ( = controls). Controls were further grouped into noninfective (n = 49) and infective‐ARDS (n = 30) patients. At baseline, controls were older (p = 0.01) and had more comorbidities (p < 0.0001). Overall, cases admitted to ICU had significantly lower circulating tT levels compared to controls (0.9 nmol/L vs. 2.1 nmol/L; vs. 1.2 nmol/L; p = 0.03). At linear regression, being negative for COVID‐19 was associated with higher tT levels (Coeff: 2.13; 95% confidence interval ‐ CI 0.71‐3.56; p = 0.004) after adjusting for age, BMI, comorbidities and IL‐6 levels. Only age and IL‐6 levels emerged to be associated with higher risk of death regardless of COVID‐19 status.

Conclusions

This case‐control ex post facto study showed lower tT levels in men with COVID‐19 compared to those without COVID‐19 despite both groups have been equally admitted to ICU for severe ARDS, thus suggesting a possible direct impact of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection toward circulating tT levels and a consequent more severe clinical outcome.
Ophthalmic manifestations in children with tuberous sclerosis complex
Authors: Öhnell Hanna Maria , Kjellström Ulrika , Eklund Erik , Pearsson Kevin , Bekassy Zivile , Gränse Lotta
Published: November 2023

Purpose

To report on the ophthalmic findings in children with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) in southern Sweden, and to investigate the frequency of refractive errors, strabismus and cerebral visual impairment associated with this condition.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study including all paediatric patients with TSC in southern Sweden born between 1983 and 2020. Medical records were reviewed regarding retinal findings, visual acuity, refractive error, strabismus, full‐field electroretinography results and cerebral visual impairment.

Results

Ophthalmological records were available for 50 of the 52 children in the region diagnosed with TSC. The mean age at the last visit was 12.4 (SD 7.2) years. Monocular visual acuity had been measured in 38 patients, and the median value did not deviate from that expected for their age in the better eye, but by −0.2 Snellen decimal acuity in the worse eye. Refractive errors were found in 62% of the patients, and strabismus in 16%. Retinal astrocytic hamartomas were found in 34% and achromatic patches in 34%. Ten of the patients on medication with vigabatrin were examined with full‐field electroretinography and treatment had to be stopped or lowered in three (30%), due to a reduced response. Investigation of cerebral visual impairment had not been conducted in any of the children.

Conclusion

Refractive errors and strabismus were common among children with TSC. None of the patients in this cohort had undergone investigation for cerebral visual impairment. The general awareness of cerebral visual impairment among ophthalmologists is poor and constitutes an important area for improvement.
Editorial: Liver hypercortisolism as a potential target for MASH treatment—Authors' reply
Authors: Kim Yun , Hwang Inyoung , Lee Sang W.
Published: November 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Kim et al papers. To view these articles, visithttps://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17726andhttps://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17757
Influence of vasopressin receptor antagonists on triple‐whammy acute kidney injury: A VigiBase analysis
Authors: Mitsuboshi Satoru , Hayakawa Kenji , Hamano Hirofumi , Oshima Ayako , Takeda Tatsuaki , Murakawa Kiminaka , Mori Hideki , Zamami Yoshito
Published: November 2023

Although diuretics play an important role in triple‐whammy acute kidney injury (AKI), it is unclear whether the type of diuretic influences the risk of triple‐whammy AKI. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether vasopressin receptor antagonists affect triple‐whammy AKI. This cross‐sectional study used disproportionality analysis of VigiBase data to assess the risk of AKI with various diuretics. Although multiple logistic regression analysis showed that aldosterone antagonists (odds ratio [OR] 2.19, 95% CI 2.01–2.37), loop diuretics (OR 4.40, 95% CI 4.07–4.76) and thiazide diuretics (OR 1.98, 95% CI 1.83–2.15) increased the risk of AKI in patients who received non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and renin‐angiotensin system inhibitors (RASi), vasopressin receptor antagonists did not increase the risk of AKI in those patients. Vasopressin receptor antagonists might not influence the development of triple‐whammy AKI.
Relationship between prolonged gestation and nifedipine pharmacokinetics in long‐term tocolysis
Authors: Tamura Miho , Murata Susumu , Ota Chihiro , Tanaka Shoko , Arichika Hitomi , Hakuno Daiki , Okada Naoto , Ushijima Kentaro , Tsuji Yasuhiro , Kitahara Takashi
Published: November 2023

In this study, we examined the pharmacokinetics of nifedipine and investigated the maternal and foetal background factors that prolong pregnancy in pregnant women undergoing long‐term tocolysis. This prospective observational study included 38 pregnant women hospitalised for threatened preterm labour and treated with nifedipine extended‐release tablets in combination with an intravenous ritodrine infusion. Maternal plasma nifedipine concentrations were determined using high‐performance liquid chromatography. All patients were administered 20 or 40 mg/dose of nifedipine every 6 h at the time of blood sampling. The plasma trough concentration (Ctrough) was 22.6 ± 17.3 ng/mL, the maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) was 30.9 ± 15.3 ng/mL and the time to maximum concentration (Tmax) was 1.70 ± 1.10 h, as determined using noncompartmental analysis (NCA). The area under the curve for drug concentration (AUCtau) was 152.3 ± 91.8 mg/L・h, and oral clearance (CL/F) was 0.17 ± 0.08 L/h. Using logistic regression analyses, we identified the factors that predicted term delivery from 37 weeks to <42 weeks of gestation. Gestational age at admission and the AUCtau of nifedipine can predict term delivery. The AUCtau of nifedipine is a valuable regulatory predictor of term delivery in pregnant women undergoing long‐term tocolysis.
Maternal early pregnancy body mass index and bipolar disorder in the offspring
Authors: Beer Rachael J. , Cnattingius Sven , Susser Ezra S. , Wang Lu , Villamor Eduardo
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To investigate the association between maternal early pregnancy body mass index (BMI) and offspring bipolar disorder (BPD).

Methods

We conducted a nationwide cohort study among 1,507,056 non‐malformed singleton live‐births in Sweden born 1983–2004. Using national registries with prospectively recorded information, we followed participants for a BPD diagnosis from ages 13 to up to 35 years. We compared BPD risks by early pregnancy BMI using hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) from adjusted Cox models. We also conducted sibling‐controlled analyses among 874,047 full siblings.

Results

There were 9970 BPD diagnoses. Risk of BPD was 0.72% through 25 years of age. Maternal early pregnancy BMI was positively associated with offspring BPD risk. Compared with normal BMI (18.5–24.9), adjusted HR (95% CI) for overweight (BMI 25–29.9), obesity grade 1 (BMI 30–34.9), and obesity grades 2–3 (BMI ≥35) were 1.08 (1.02, 1.15), 1.26 (1.14, 1.40), and 1.31 (1.07, 1.60), respectively. Adjusted HR per unit BMI was 1.015 (95% CI 1.009, 1.021). A similar trend was observed among siblings. Pregnancy and neonatal complications did not substantially mediate the association between maternal obesity (BMI ≥30) and offspring BPD.

Conclusions

Maternal BMI ≥25 is associated with offspring BPD risk in a dose–response manner.
Ropivacaine inhibits the proliferation and metastasis of gastric cancer cells via the SNX10/SRC/STAT3 pathway
Authors: Deng Rong‐rong , Yuan You‐ping
Published: November 2023

Gastric cancer currently has no effective treatment due to its high metastasis and heterogeneity. It has been reported that ropivacaine (Rop) can inhibit the growth, migration, and invasion of gastric cancer. However, the therapeutic mechanism of Rop still needs to be further explored to provide insights for its clinical application. This study aimed to explore the effects of Rop on the growth, migration, and invasion of gastric cancer cells and the underlying mechanisms. The expression levels of SNX10 were assessed in gastric cancer tissues and cell line AGS by qRT‐PCR. Cell Counting Kit‐8 (CCK8) assay, wound‐healing assay, and transwell assay were then used to examine the effects of Rop on the AGS cell viability, migration, invasion, and proliferation, respectively. Additionally, colony formation assay was used to measure cell proliferation ability, and flow cytometry was used to detect apoptosis level. Protein levels of SNX10, SRC, and STAT3 were detected by western blot. According to the experimental results, the decreased SNX10 mRNA expression was observed in gastric cancer tissue and cell line AGS. Rop inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of AGS cells, but promoted apoptosis and upregulated SNX10 expression. Moreover, Rop inhibited the expression of MMP‐2 and MMP‐9, phosphorylation of SRC and STAT3. SNX10 knockdown could reverse Rop‐induced anticancer effects. Collectively, Rop showed a potential role in preventing proliferation and metastasis of gastric cancer. The action mechanism of Rop may be related to the upregulation of SNX10 expression and further inhibition of SRC/STAT3 signaling pathway. Our findings provide new insights into the anticancer properties of Rop.
Cosmetovigilance for infrequent allergens in Spain using a national online registry: The example of allergic contact dermatitis caused by phenylethyl resorcinol
Authors: Mercader‐García Pedro , Gatica‐Ortega Maria Elena , González‐Pérez Ricardo , Pastor‐Nieto María Antonia , Carrillo Andrés , Borrego Leopoldo ,   the REIDAC
Published: November 2023

Background

Monitoring of adverse events induced by cosmetics performed by health authorities, known as cosmetovigilance, has been relied on the collection of case notifications.

Objectives

We aimed to show how a contact dermatitis registry can contribute to the cosmetovigilance of emerging allergens. We used the example of phenylethyl resorcinol, an infrequent allergen with only 6 previous cases reported in Europe and Japan since 2013.

Methods

A systematic search in the Spanish Registry of Contact Dermatitis and Cutaneous Allergy (REIDAC) database was performed to identify patients with positive patch test to phenylethyl resorcinol or cosmetics that contains it between June 2018 and January 2023. We collected the main clinical features of these patients and compared them with those of patients recorded in the registry with similar epidemiological features.

Results

Thirteen patients with positive patch test to phenylethyl resorcinol were identified. All the patients were women with a mean age of 42 years (range 32–59) and their lesions were mainly in the face.

Conclusion

Assessing the importance of infrequent allergens based solely on a case series is difficult. Multicentre registries facilitate the collection of cases and provide appropriate background information for new allergens.
A cloudy forecast for species distribution models: Predictive uncertainties abound for California birds after a century of climate and land‐use change
Authors: Clare John D. J. , de Valpine Perry , Moanga Diana A. , Tingley Morgan W. , Beissinger Steven R.
Published: November 2023

Correlative species distribution models are widely used to quantify past shifts in ranges or communities, and to predict future outcomes under ongoing global change. Practitioners confront a wide range of potentially plausible models for ecological dynamics, but most specific applications only consider a narrow set. Here, we clarify that certain model structures can embed restrictive assumptions about key sources of forecast uncertainty into an analysis. To evaluate forecast uncertainties and our ability to explain community change, we fit and compared 39 candidate multi‐ or joint species occupancy models to avian incidence data collected at 320 sites across California during the early 20th century and resurveyed a century later. We found massive (>20,000 LOOIC) differences in within‐time information criterion across models. Poorer fitting models omitting multivariate random effects predicted less variation in species richness changes and smaller contemporary communities, with considerable variation in predicted spatial patterns in richness changes across models. The top models suggested avian environmental associations changed across time, contemporary avian occupancy was influenced by previous site‐specific occupancy states, and that both latent site variables and species associations with these variables also varied over time. Collectively, our results recapitulate that simplified model assumptions not only impact predictive fit but may mask important sources of forecast uncertainty and mischaracterize the current state of system understanding when seeking to describe or project community responses to global change. We recommend that researchers seeking to make long‐term forecasts prioritize characterizing forecast uncertainty over seeking to present a single best guess. To do so reliably, we urge practitioners to employ models capable of characterizing the key sources of forecast uncertainty, where predictors, parameters and random effects may vary over time or further interact with previous occurrence states.
Temperature dependence of spring carbon uptake in northern high latitudes during the past four decades
Authors: Zhu Dan , Wang Yilong , Ciais Philippe , Chevallier Frédéric , Peng Shushi , Zhang Yao , Wang Xuhui
Published: November 2023

In the northern high latitudes, warmer spring temperatures generally lead to earlier leaf onsets, higher vegetation production, and enhanced spring carbon uptake. Yet, whether this positive linkage has diminished under climate change remains debated. Here, we used atmospheric CO2 measurements at Barrow (Alaska) during 1979–2020 to investigate the strength of temperature dependence of spring carbon uptake reflected by two indicators, spring zero‐crossing date (SZC) and CO2 drawdown (SCC). We found a fall and rise in the interannual correlation of temperature with SZC and SCC (RSZC‐T and RSCC‐T), showing a recent reversal of the previously reported weakening trend of RSZC‐T and RSCC‐T. We used a terrestrial biosphere model coupled with an atmospheric transport model to reproduce this fall and rise phenomenon and conducted factorial simulations to explore its potential causes. We found that a strong–weak–strong spatial synchrony of spring temperature anomalies per se has contributed to the fall and rise trend in RSZC‐T and RSCC‐T, despite an overall unbroken temperature control on net ecosystem CO2 fluxes at local scale. Our results provide an alternative explanation for the apparent drop of RSZC‐T and RSCC‐T during the late 1990s and 2000s, and suggest a continued positive linkage between spring carbon uptake and temperature during the past four decades. We thus caution the interpretation of apparent climate sensitivities of carbon cycle retrieved from spatially aggregated signals.
Within‐ and transgenerational stress legacy effects of ocean acidification on red abalone (Haliotis rufescens) growth and survival
Authors: Neylan Isabelle P. , Swezey Daniel S. , Boles Sara E. , Gross Jackson A. , Sih Andrew , Stachowicz John J.
Published: November 2023

Understanding the mechanisms by which individual organisms respond and populations adapt to global climate change is a critical challenge. The role of plasticity and acclimation, within and across generations, may be essential given the pace of change. We investigated plasticity across generations and life stages in response to ocean acidification (OA), which poses a growing threat to both wild populations and the sustainable aquaculture of shellfish. Most studies of OA on shellfish focus on acute effects, and less is known regarding the longer term carryover effects that may manifest within or across generations. We assessed these longer term effects in red abalone (Haliotis rufescens) using a multi‐generational split‐brood experiment. We spawned adults raised in ambient conditions to create offspring that we then exposed to high pCO2 (1180 μatm; simulating OA) or low pCO2 (450 μatm; control or ambient conditions) during the first 3 months of life. We then allowed these animals to reach maturity in ambient common garden conditions for 4 years before returning the adults into high or low pCO2 treatments for 11 months and measuring growth and reproductive potential. Early‐life exposure to OA in the F1 generation decreased adult growth rate even after 5 years especially when abalone were re‐exposed to OA as adults. Adult but not early‐life exposure to OA negatively impacted fecundity. We then exposed the F2 offspring to high or low pCO2 treatments for the first 3 months of life in a fully factorial, split‐brood design. We found negative transgenerational effects of parental OA exposure on survival and growth of F2 offspring, in addition to significant direct effects of OA on F2 survival. These results show that the negative impacts of OA can last within and across generations, but that buffering against OA conditions at critical life‐history windows can mitigate these effects.
Amplifying the voices of Black racial minorities in mental health research through public involvement and engagement: The importance of advisory roles
Authors: Onwumere Juliana , Gentle Anthony , Obanubi Rachel , Davis Annette , Karuga Moffat , Ali Rubbia ,   BeFine Study Team, Cardi Valentina
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Ensuring adequate representation and the active, meaningful and visible involvement of groups likely to be most impacted by research findings and/or the lack of research inquiry are increasingly acknowledged. This is particularly relevant for Black racially minoritised groups who are less visible as research participants and in patient and public involvement and engagement (PPIE) roles. Our viewpoint article sought to discuss reflections and insights on their involvement experience, with particular attention to perceived barriers and enablers to PPIE involvement.

Methods

Qualitative data were collected as part of facilitated group discussions from nine Black racially minoritised experts‐by‐experience involved in a PPIE advisory group. Data were subjected to thematic analysis to identify key themes.

Results

Five main themes were identified that reflected factors linked to practicalities: role unfamiliarity, benefits for the larger community, acknowledgement of previous harm and mental health stigma.

Conclusion

Given the existence and importance of the direct links between research and service and treatment innovations in health and social care, ensuring that those from underrepresented Black racial communities are meaningfully and equitably supported to have roles in advising and influencing research programmes should be prioritised and an ongoing consideration for different stakeholders, including research funders, researchers, healthcare providers and community leaders/representatives.

Patient or Public Contribution

This viewpoint article is a collaboration between lived experience stakeholders and researchers, comprising conceiving the original idea for the paper, its conceptualisation and data generation and the coproduction including editing of the manuscript.
Perceptions of transitional care services among patients with percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage and multicentre health professionals: A qualitative study
Authors: Yu Huan , Wang Xiaomei , Wang Rui , Peng Guoqing , Gong Liyun
Published: November 2023

Background

Patients with percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD) need regular drainage tube care after discharge, and transitional care can help solve this problem. However, few studies have focused on the quality of transitional care, the perceptions of patients with drainage tubes after discharge and those of healthcare professionals.

Aim

This study is aimed at exploring the real experience and perceptions of transitional care services among healthcare professionals and PTBD patients who have been discharged with tubes and at providing references for future transitional care service development.

Design

The study uses a qualitative descriptive design. The reporting method followed Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research guidelines.

Methods

Semistructured interviews were conducted with PTBD patients who had been discharged with tubes and multicentre healthcare professionals using the purpose sampling method. The thematic analysis method was used for analysis.

Results

Thirteen PTBD patients from one hospital and 12 healthcare professionals from three hospitals were interviewed. The analysis of the patient interview data revealed three themes, namely, recognition of the value of transitional care services, patients have some unmet needs and perception of transitional care service pathways. Six subthemes were also identified. The analysis of the interview data of healthcare professionals revealed two themes, namely, harvest and challenges in transitional care services work and expectations for future development of transitional care services. Four subthemes were also identified.

Conclusions

The transitional care of discharged patients with PTBD tubes deserves the attention of clinical workers, and a series of measures should be taken to improve transitional care services.

Patient/Public Contribution

Patients were involved in the formulation of interview questions for this study, and during the interviews, patients presented their suggestions for transitional care services. Healthcare professionals participated in this study as interviewees, and no members of the public were involved in this study.
Lipid mediator resolvin D2 inhibits ATP currents in rat primary sensory neurons
Authors: Hao Jia‐Wei , Liu Ting‐Ting , Qiu Chun‐Yu , Li Xue‐Mei , Qiao Wen‐Long , Li Qing , Qin Qing‐Rui , Hu Wang‐Ping
Published: November 2023

Resolvin D2 (RvD2), an endogenous lipid mediator derived from docosahexaenoic acid, has been demonstrated to have analgesic effects. However, little is known about the mechanism underlying RvD2 in pain relief. Herein, we demonstrate that RvD2 targeted the P2X3 receptor as an analgesic. The electrophysiological activity of P2X3 receptors was suppressed by RvD2 in rat dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons. RvD2 pre‐application dose‐dependently decreased α,β‐methylene‐ATP (α,β‐meATP)‐induced inward currents. RvD2 remarkably decreased the maximum response to α,β‐meATP, without influencing the affinity of P2X3 receptors. RvD2 also voltage‐independently suppressed ATP currents. An antagonist of the G protein receptor 18 (GPR18), O‐1918, prevented the RvD2‐induced suppression of ATP currents. Additionally, intracellular dialysis of the Gαi/o‐protein antagonist pertussis toxin (PTX), the PKA antagonist H89, or the cAMP analog 8‐Br‐cAMP also blocked the RvD2‐induced suppression. Furthermore, α,β‐meATP‐triggered depolarization of membrane potential along with the action potential bursts in DRG neurons were inhibited by RvD2. Lastly, RvD2 attenuated spontaneous nociceptive behaviors as well as mechanical allodynia produced by α,β‐meATP in rats via the activation of the peripheral GPR18. These findings indicated that RvD2 inhibited P2X3 receptors in rat primary sensory neurons through GPR18, PTX‐sensitive Gαi/o‐proteins, and intracellular cAMP/PKA signaling, revealing a novel mechanism that underlies its analgesic effects by targeting P2X3 receptors.

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Comparison of volatile aroma and sensory characteristics of doenjang and Korean‐style doenjang
Authors: Shin Yejin , Hwang In‐Seo , Park Tackhyun , Lee Woobong , Kim Mina K.
Published: November 2023

Doenjang is a traditional soybean fermented food ingredient in Korea. According to the Korean Food Code, different categories were defined: doenjang and Korean‐style (Hansik) doenjang. Two different categories were classified according to its main ingredient called “Meju.” The purpose of this study was to compare the flavor characteristics including sensory characteristics and volatile aroma profiles of doenjang and Korean‐style doenjang according to the categories listed in the Korean Food Code. A total of six samples, including four doenjang and two Korean‐style doenjang samples, were included in this study. Sensory characteristics were analyzed by a highly trained panel (n = 7) using Spectrum™ method. Volatile flavor analysis was conducted using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry in conjunction with the Solvent Assisted Flavor Extraction method. Differences in sensory characteristics were documented between doenjang and Korean‐style doenjang categories, and one sample under doenjang category had distinctive aroma characteristics. Samples under doenjang were characterized with high intensities of fruit‐related aroma, possibly due to the presence of ester compounds, ethyl acetate, and phenyl ethyl alcohol. Korean‐style doenjang had characteristics related to the so‐called “traditional doenjang” in previous studies, such as meju and fish sauce aromatics, and these aromas may have been caused by the presence of 1,2‐dimethyl benzene and 3‐hydroxy‐2‐butanone.

Practical Applications

According to the Korean Food Code, doenjang is divided into two categories based on the use of major ingredients called meju: doenjang and Korean‐style doenjang. To this date, studies related to flavor analysis of doenjang majorly focused on the final product, doenjang, while this study was conducted on the flavor analysis of doenjang categorized by the Korean Food Code. Finding from this study can aid small and mid‐sized doenjang manufacturers to strategically manage their flavor characteristics according to Korean food law and regulations.
Surveillance deputies: When ordinary people surveil for the state
Authors: Brayne Sarah , Lageson Sarah , Levy Karen
Published: November 2023

The state has long relied on ordinary civilians to do surveillance work, but recent advances in networked technologies are expanding mechanisms for surveillance and social control. In this article, we analyze the phenomenon in which private individuals conduct surveillance on behalf of the state, often using private sector technologies to do so. We develop the concept ofsurveillance deputiesto describe when ordinary people, rather than state actors, use their labor and economic resources to engage in such activity. Although surveillance deputies themselves are not new, their participation in everyday surveillance deputy work has rapidly increased under unique economic and technological conditions of our digital age. Drawing upon contemporary empirical examples, we hypothesize four conditions that contribute to surveillance deputization and strengthen its effects: (1) when interests between the state and civilians converge; (2) when law institutionalizes surveillance deputization or fails to clarify its boundaries; (3) when technological offerings expand personal surveillance capabilities; and (4) when unequal groups use surveillance to gain power or leverage resistance. In developing these hypotheses, we bridge research in law and society, sociology, surveillance studies, and science and technology studies and suggest avenues for future empirical investigation.
Multimodal therapies and strategies for the treatment of interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome in Taiwan
Authors: Yu Wan‐Ru , Kuo Hann‐Chorng
Published: November 2023

Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) is a chronic disease characterized by bladder pain, frequency, and nocturia. The most common pathologies include chronic inflammation and bladder urothelium dysfunction. According to the bladder condition with or without Hunner's lesions, IC/BPS can be divided into “IC” in patients with Hunner's lesion (HIC) and “BPS” in those without Hunner's lesion (NHIC). Previous studies have reported greater central sensitization and interorgan cross‐talk in patients with NHIC. Multimodal treatments have been recommended in clinical guidelines under the biopsychosocial model. The bladder–gut–brain axis has also been speculated, and multimodal therapies are necessary. Unfortunately, currently, no treatment has been reported durable for IC/BPS. Patients with IC/BPS usually experience anxiety, depression, holistic physical responses, and even threats to social support systems. The lack of durable treatment outcomes might result from inadequate diagnostic accuracy and differentiation of clinical phenotypes based on the underlying pathophysiology. Precision assessment and treatment are essential for optimal therapy under definite IC/BPS phenotype. This article reviewed currently available literature and proposed a diagnosis and treatment algorithm. Based on bladder therapy combined with suitable physical and psychological therapies, a well‐grounded multimodal therapy and treatment algorithm for IC/BPS following a diagnostic protocol are indispensable.
Correlates of physical activity enjoyment in children and adolescents for a new perspective on the treatment of overweight: A systematic literature review
Authors: Greule Constanze , Sudeck Gorden , Thiel Ansgar , Kastner Lydia , Janßen Pia , Nieß Andreas , Rapp Felicitas , Junne Florian , Krauß Inga
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this systematic literature review was to systematically compile the state of knowledge on correlates of physical activity enjoyment in children and adolescents to influence the perspective of future physical activity promotion approaches especially for children and adolescents affected by overweight or obesity. The electronic database search was executed in the five databases PubMed, PsychINFO, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, and BISp‐SURF, from inception to December 6, 2021. A semi‐quantitative method was used for summarizing the resulted correlates. For final analysis, 85 studies comprising 48,144 children and adolescents were included. Fifty‐seven variables could be coded for their relationship with physical activity enjoyment. Of these, 12 psychological variables, for example, the basic psychological needs, task orientation, or self‐efficacy; six interpersonal variables, for example, peer/group acceptance, parental support, and autonomy support; and one behavioral variable, the higher self‐reported physical activity, are consistent positively associated to physical activity enjoyment. A scientifically based overview could be extracted for the promotion of physical activity enjoyment in children and adolescents. There is a gap in literature focusing the perception of physical activity enjoyment in the subgroup of children and adolescents affected by overweight or obesity. Therefore, recommendations were made to enable the development of further innovative research approaches in this population.
QRS axis and polarity in the inferior leads during left bundle branch pacing: Novel criteria in the search for better results
Authors: Rubio Campal José‐Manuel , Asís Diaz Cortegana Francisco , Lazaro Rivera Carla , Garcia Talavera Camila Sofía , Aguilera Agudo Cristina , Bravo Calero Loreto
Published: November 2023

Background

Left bundle branch pacing (LBBP) may be achieved in various anatomical sites within the interventricular septum (IVS), thus influencing paced QRS duration (QRSd).The purpose of this study was to determine whether paced QRS axis (QRSâ) and predominant polarity in inferior leads could be associated with a shorter paced QRSd.

Methods

We analyzed paced QRSd, QRSâ, polarity in inferior leads, and IVS thickness in patients referred for LBBP. Three paced morphology patterns in the inferior leads were considered: All positive (P), all negative (N) and intermediate (combination of isoelectric, positive, and negative complexes, (I). Patients were divided into two groups according to a paced QRSd < 120 or ≥ 120 ms.

Results

A total of 125 patients were included (age 76 ± 10 years, 46% female). Mean baseline QRSâ was 8 ± 37°. Paced QRSd was significantly shorter as compared to baseline (120 ± 10 vs. 127 ± 33 ms; p = .017) and significantly different according to paced QRS morphology pattern in the inferior leads (P 49%, 119 ± 9; N 30%, 126 ± 12; I 21%; 113 ± 10 ms; p < .001) or paced QRSâ (Normal 59%, 116 ± 1; Right 6%, 129 ± 1; Left 35%, 124 ± 11 ms; p < .001). On multivariate analysis, a QRSâ > −30°(OR 5.79 [2.40–13.93; 95% CI] p = .001), an Intermediate pattern in inferior leads (OR 3.00 [1.67–8.43; 95% CI] p = .037), and an IVS thickness ≤ 10 mm (OR 2.59 [1.10–6.10; 95% CI]; p = .029) were significantly associated with a paced QRSd < 120 ms.

Conclusions

During LBBP, a QRSâ > −30° and intermediate final polarity in inferior leads are associated with a shorter paced QRSd.
Validation of the HCM Risk‐SCD model in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and future perspectives
Authors: Pay Levent , Çetin Tuğba , Dereli Şeyda , Kadı Hikmet , Yumurtaş Ahmet Çağdaş , Çınar Tufan , Hayıroğlu Mert İlker
Published: November 2023

Background

The hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) risk‐ sudden cardiac death (SCD) model provides a convenient tool for determining the risk of SCD in patients with HCM even though some patients with low‐risk scores still remain at risk of SCD. Hence, the aim of our study was to assess the performance of HCM Risk‐SCD in a large series of consecutive patients with HCM who had been followed up in a tertiary center.

Methods

The study population consisted of 389 consecutive HCM patients who had been followed up between 2004 and 2021. Demographic and clinical characteristics, estimated 5‐year risk using the HCM Risk‐SCD model, were compiled, and survival data were collected during follow‐up. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to their long‐term survival, and HCM risk‐SCD scores of these two groups were compared.

Results

The long‐term mortality was observed in 47 patients out of 389 patients in the during a mean follow‐up of 55.5 ± 12.7 months. The mean HCM Risk‐SCD score of surviving patients was significantly lower than that of non‐survivors (1.8% vs. 3.0%, p < .001). The HCM Risk‐SCD score was above 6% in nine (2.6%) survivors and nine (19.1%) non‐survivors (p < .001). The ROC curve based on the HCM Risk‐SCD score had 61% sensitivity and 61% specificity for risk threshold of for 2.0%, 38% sensitivity and 99% specificity a threshold of ≥4%, 17% sensitivity, and 99% specificity for a threshold of ≥6%.

Conclusion

A new risk algorithm with higher sensitivity is needed, although the HCM risk‐SCD model is still quite useful in identifying patients at a high risk for SCD.
Long‐term efficacy and safety of cryoballoon ablation of atrial fibrillation: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Song Wenhua , Lv Tonglian , Zhang Nan , Li Guangping , Tse Gary , Liu Tong
Published: November 2023

Background

This meta‐analysis evaluated long‐term efficacy and safety of cryoballoon ablation (CB) of atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods

PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were searched until July 31, 2023, for published works investigating efficacy and safety of CB of AF in which mean/median follow‐up time was not less than 36 months. Safety was assessed by adverse events. Efficacy was assessed by AF recurrence, defined as any atrial arrhythmias lasting more than 30 s.

Results

A total of 19 clinical studies were included. After an average of 58.1 months of follow‐up, the overall AF recurrence rate was about 37%. The predictors of recurrence were duration of AF (HR 1.00; 95% CI [1.00 ∼ 1.01]), early recurrence of atrial fibrillation (HR 3.96; 95%CI [1.12 ∼ 14.02]), left atrial diameter (HR 1.04; 95%CI [1.02 ∼ 1.06]), and persistent AF (HR1.47; 95% CI [1.19 ∼ 1.82]). In terms of safety, the incidence of transient phrenic paralysis (PNP) was the highest, about 3%; followed by vascular complications (about 2%); pseudoaneurysm, permanent PNP, and all‐cause death was (about 1%); and pericardial effusion and stroke / TIA was very low.

Conclusion

CB is associated with low rates of severe complications and reasonable success rates.
Authorized economic operator certification and export stability: Evidence from China's firms
Authors: Zheng Hang , Han Jian , Liu Yiqun
Published: November 2023

This study examines the impact of the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) certification on export stability. Using a new and unique dataset on AEO certification, combined with the Chinese Customs Enterprise Database and Chinese Industrial Enterprise Database from 2002 to 2013, we find that AEO certification has a positive impact on export stability by employing a staggered difference‐in‐differences empirical strategy. It reduces the likelihood of export failure, enabling certified firms to achieve higher efficiency and maintain competitive advantages in trade risks. The negative effect of AEO certification on export failure is prominent in firms exporting products with higher prices, more physical inspection, and higher requirements of customs clearance time. Along with AEO adoption, certified firms perform better in export stability than non‐certified ones.
Exploring the noticing of science teachers: What teachers' notice and using video to capture teacher knowledge
Authors: Luft Julie A. , Huang Yuxi , Singh Harleen , Ozen‐Tasdemir Hatice , DeLuca Joe , Watson Shelby , Ayano Elizabeth , Whitworth Brooke A.
Published: November 2023

Knowing how science teachers develop their professional knowledge has been a challenge. One potential way to determine the professional knowledge of teachers is through videos. In the study described here, the authors recruited 60 elementary and secondary science teachers, showed them one of two 10‐min videos, and recorded and analyzed their comments when watching the videos. The coding focused on their noticing of student learning, teacher's teaching, types of teaching practices, and the use of interpretative frames. The noticing data were collected and analyzed to determine the differences between groups of teachers. The findings from the analysis indicated that most science teachers noticed the instruction of teachers rather than the learning of students, and these noticing events were often focused on general instructional practices as opposed to the science practices emphasized in the Next Generation Science Standards (National Research Council, 2013). The only difference between the teachers was in the area of evaluating the videos. Secondary science teachers and experienced elementary teachers were more likely to evaluate the videos than were novice elementary teachers. This may be a result of the knowledge base of the teachers. These results suggest a need for explicit reform‐based instruction and a revision of this research process.
The contribution of the tendon electrode to M‐wave characteristics in the biceps brachii, vastus lateralis and tibialis anterior
Authors: Rodriguez‐Falces Javier , Etxaleku Saioa , Trajano Gabriel S. , Setuain Igor
Published: November 2023

In some compound muscle action potentials (M waves) recorded using the belly–tendon configuration, the tendon electrode makes a noticeable contribution to the M wave. However, this finding has only been demonstrated in some hand and foot muscles. Here, we assessed the contribution of the tendon potential to the amplitude of the vastus lateralis, biceps brachii and tibialis anterior M waves, and we also examined the role of this tendon potential in the shoulder‐like feature appearing in most M waves. M waves were recorded separately at the belly and tendon locations of the vastus lateralis, biceps brachii and tibialis anterior from 38 participants by placing the reference electrode at a distant (contralateral) site. The amplitude of the M waves and the latency of their peaks and shoulders were measured. In the vastus lateralis, the tendon potential was markedly smaller in amplitude (∼75%) compared to the belly M wave (P = 0.001), whereas for the biceps brachii and tibialis anterior, the tendon and belly potentials had comparable amplitudes. In the vastus lateralis, the tendon potential showed a small positive peak coinciding in latency with the shoulder of the belly–tendon M wave, whilst in the biceps brachii and tibialis anterior, the tendon potential showed a clear negative peak which coincided in latency with the shoulder. The tendon potential makes a significant contribution to the belly–tendon M waves of the biceps brachii and tibialis anterior muscles, but little contribution to the vastus lateralis M waves. The shoulder observed in the belly–tendon M wave of the vastus lateralis is caused by the belly potential, the shoulder in the biceps brachii M wave is generated by the tendon potential, whereas the shoulder in the tibialis anterior M wave is caused by both the tendon and belly potentials.
Multi-modal transducer-waveguide construct coupled to a medical needle
Authors: Le Bourlout Yohann , Ehnholm Gösta , Nieminen Heikki J.
Published: November 2023

Annually, more than 16 × 109 medical needles are consumed worldwide. However, the functions of the medical needle are still limited mainly to cutting and delivering material to or from a target site. Ultrasound combined with a hypodermic needle could add value to many medical applications, for example, by reducing the penetration force needed during the intervention, adding precision by limiting the needle deflection upon insertion into soft tissues, and even improving tissue collection in fine-needle biopsy applications. In this study, we develop a waveguide construct able to operate a longitudinal-flexural conversion of a wave when transmitted from a Langevin transducer to a conventional medical needle, while maintaining high electric-to-acoustic power efficiency. The optimization of the waveguide structure was realized in silico using the finite element method followed by prototyping the construct and characterizing it experimentally. The experiments conducted at low electrical power consumption (under 5 W) show a 30 kHz flexural needle tip displacement up to 200 μm and 73% electric-to-acoustic power efficiency. This, associated with a small sized transducer, could facilitate the design of ultrasonic medical needles, enabling portability, batterization, and improved electrical safety, for applications such as biopsy, drug and gene delivery, and minimally invasive interventions.
Thixo-elastoviscoplastic modeling of human blood
Authors: Spyridakis A. , Moschopoulos P. , Varchanis S. , Dimakopoulos Y. , Tsamopoulos J.
Published: November 2023

We propose an enhanced model for the rheological characterization of human blood that accounts for thixotropy, viscoelasticity, and yield-stress. Blood plasma is assumed to act as a Newtonian solvent. We introduce a scalar variable, λ, to macroscopically describe the structure of blood. The temporal evolution of λ is governed by an equation that accounts for aggregation of red blood cells and breakdown of rouleaux structures. We introduce a Gaussian function that qualitatively describes experimental findings on rouleaux restructuring and the expression that was proposed by Stephanou and Georgiou for the breakdown term. The constitutive equation for stresses is based on the elastoviscoplastic formalism by Saramito. However, the max term of the viscoplastic deformation rate has been replaced by a continuous function of λ to account for smooth solid-fluid transition, following the experimental evidence. The continuous yielding description provides improved rheological predictions, especially in small amplitude oscillatory shear. The model predicts finite viscous dissipation at small amplitude oscillation, as we would expect from a gel material-like human blood. Overall, it has nine adjustable parameters that are fitted simultaneously to experimental data by nonlinear regression. The model can accurately predict numerous flow conditions: steady shear, step shear, hysteresis loops, and oscillatory shear. We compare this model (TEVP 9) to our previous formulation for human blood (TEVP 11), and we show that the predictions of the new model are more accurate, despite using fewer parameters. We provide additional predictions for uniaxial elongation, which include finite normal stress difference, extensional hardening at large values of the extensional rate, and extensional thinning at extremely large extensional rates.
Out-of-plane ferroelectricity and robust magnetoelectricity in quasi-two-dimensional materials
Authors: Lu Xue-Zeng , Zhang Hui-Min , Zhou Ying , Zhu Tong , Xiang Hongjun , Dong Shuai , Kageyama Hiroshi , Rondinelli James M.
Published: November 2023

Thin-film ferroelectrics have been pursued for capacitive and nonvolatile memory devices. They rely on polarizations that are oriented in an out-of-plane direction to facilitate integration and addressability with complementary metal-oxide semiconductor architectures. The internal depolarization field, however, formed by surface charges can suppress the out-of-plane polarization in ultrathin ferroelectric films that could otherwise exhibit lower coercive fields and operate with lower power. Here, we unveil stabilization of a polar longitudinal optical (LO) mode in the
n
= 2 Ruddlesden–Popper family that produces out-of-plane ferroelectricity, persists under open-circuit boundary conditions, and is distinct from hyperferroelectricity. Our first-principles calculations show the stabilization of the LO mode is ubiquitous in chalcogenides and halides and relies on anharmonic trilinear mode coupling. We further show that the out-of-plane ferroelectricity can be predicted with a crystallographic tolerance factor, and we use these insights to design a room-temperature multiferroic with strong magnetoelectric coupling suitable for magneto-electric spin-orbit transistors.