bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
All‐cause and cardiovascular mortality after hysterectomy and oophorectomy in a large cohort (HUNT2)
Authors: Michelsen Trond M. , Rosland Tina Ellinor , Åsvold Bjørn O. , Pripp Are H. , Liavaag Astrid H. , Johansen Nora
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Hysterectomy and bilateral oophorectomy are common major surgical procedures that have been associated with increased mortality risk. We aimed to assess the association of hysterectomy and/or bilateral oophorectomy with all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality in a Norwegian population.

Material and methods

Cohort study with data from The Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT2) linked to the Norwegian Cause of Death Registry, with follow‐up from 1996 until 2014 or death. The unexposed group (n = 18 673) included women with both their ovaries and uterus intact, while the two exposed groups included women with hysterectomy alone (n = 1199), or bilateral oophorectomy with or without hysterectomy (n = 907). We compared mortality in exposed vs unexposed groups and adjusted for relevant covariates by Cox regression. Further, we performed analyses stratified by age at surgery (≤39, 40–52, ≥53 years) and subgroup analyses among women ≤52 years of age at inclusion.

Results

Among the 47 312 women in HUNT2 (1995–1997), 20 779 provided complete information regarding gynecological surgery and previous health. The hysterectomy group had increased all‐cause mortality (hazard ratio [HR] 1.30, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.06–1.58) and cardiovascular mortality (HR 1.47, 95% CI 1.09–1.97). We found no significant association between bilateral oophorectomy and all‐cause or cardiovascular mortality in the total population. However, among women ≤52 years at inclusion, cardiovascular mortality was increased in the hysterectomy group (HR 2.71, 95% CI 1.19–6.17) with a similar, but less precise estimate in the bilateral oophorectomy group (HR 2.42, 95% CI 0.84–6.93).

Conclusions

Hysterectomy was associated with increased all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality, whereas bilateral salpingo‐oophorectomy was not. Among women ≤52 years at inclusion, both hysterectomy and bilateral oophorectomy were associated with a twofold increased risk of cardiovascular mortality, but the results were imprecise. Women after hysterectomy and/or bilateral salpingo‐oophorectomy constitute a group with increased cardiovascular mortality that may need closer attention to cardiovascular disease risk from the healthcare system to ensure timely and effective preventive interventions.
Editorial: let's get physical—long‐term benefits of vigorous physical activity in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Heinle J. Westley , Stine Jonathan G.
Published: February 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Henry et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17308 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17349
Editorial: moving from the clinic towards population hepatology
Authors: Parker Richard
Published: February 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Hagström et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17374 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17400
Editorial: definition of factors associated with poor quality of life in patients with IBS—but where to from here? Authorsʼ reply
Authors: Goodoory Vivek C. , Guthrie Elspeth A. , Ng Cho Ee , Black Christopher J. , Ford Alexander C.
Published: February 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Goodoory et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17356 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17391
Editorial: real‐world evidence of tofacitinib and vedolizumab in ulcerative colitis—are we one step closer to better positioning therapies after anti‐TNF failure? Authors' reply
Authors: Buisson Anthony
Published: February 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Buisson et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17305 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17351
Letter: tricky reactions to switch back from subcutaneous to intravenous vedolizumab in inflammatory bowel disease patients—authors' reply
Authors: Volkers Adriaan , Straatmijer Tessa , Duijvestein Marjolijn , Löwenberg Mark , van der Meulen Andrea , D'Haens Geert
Published: February 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Volkers et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17153 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17395
To behave or not to behave ethically: A question of style?
Authors: Berisha Gentrit , Oliveira Luciana , Humolli Edon
Published: February 2023

What makes people behave ethically continues to be at the forefront of business ethics research. The stylistic makeup of the decision‐maker has been suspected to influence individual ethical behavior; however, this body of research accounts only for a handful of studies. This paper investigates the influence of decision‐making styles as an individual difference on unethical behavior, independently from other personal characteristics. Covering a sample of 230 managers, we utilize the preeminent measures of these two constructs in a self‐report survey. Our results suggest that the decision‐making styles of managers do influence their ethical behavior. Whereas managers with a dominant rational or spontaneous style behave ethically, having a more intuitive or avoidant makes them behave less ethically. The results also reveal that with higher levels of education, managers become more unethical. This research conveys important implications for management practice, education, and training.
Long‐term excess mortality and net survival among elderly diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma patients after front‐line R‐CHOP treatment
Authors: Belot Aurélien , Camus Vincent , Portugues Cédric , Paget Jérome , Chartier Loic , Cony‐Makhoul Pascale , Tilly Hervé , Joubert Clémentine
Published: February 2023

In the era of immunochemotherapy, data on the long‐term prognosis of elderly patients diagnosed with a diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) are scarce. In this population and on the longer term, other‐cause mortality is an important competing risk that needs to be accounted for. Using clinical trial data and relative survival approaches, we estimated the 10‐year net survival (NS) and we described the excess mortality hazard (EMH) due (directly or indirectly) to the DLBCL, over time and according to main prognosis factors using flexible regression modelling. The 10‐year NS was 65% [59; 71]. Using the flexible modelling, we showed that the EMH decreases steeply after diagnosis. The variables ‘performance status’, ‘number of extra‐nodal sites’ and the serum ‘lactate dehydrogenase’ were strongly associated with the EMH, even after adjustment on other important variables. EMH is very close to zero at 10 years for the whole population, so DLBCL patients do not experience an increased mortality compared to the general population in the long term. The number of extra‐nodal sites was an important prognostic factor shortly after diagnosis, suggesting that it is correlated with an important but unmeasured prognostic factor that would lead to this selection effect over time.
Search less for a better price
Authors: Bilen Eren , Dizdar Deniz , Miao Chun‐Hui
Published: February 2023

In many markets, sellers must spend resources to learn the costs of providing goods/services. This paper considers consumer searches in such markets. The findings show that: (i) even with ex ante identical consumers and sellers, there is price dispersion in the equilibrium, (ii) despite price dispersion and minimal search costs, it could be optimal to search just two sellers and (iii) the optimal number of searches can increase with sellers' information costs.
Journeys of culturally connecting: Aboriginal young people's experiences of cultural connection in and beyond out‐of‐home care
Authors: Krakouer Jacynta
Published: February 2023

With growing overrepresentation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people in out‐of‐home care (OOHC), cultural disconnection is an omnipresent threat. Despite research and inquiries that have highlighted the risk of cultural disconnection for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children living in OOHC, limited research has explored Indigenous children and young people's experiences of cultural connection in the Australian context. Informed by Indigenous Standpoint Theory, this Aboriginal‐led qualitative study sought to understand 10 OOHC‐experienced Aboriginal young people's experiences of cultural connection over time, including after exit from OOHC, through retrospective interviews that employed a phenomenological lens. It was found that Aboriginal young people experienced cultural connection as a heterogenous process involving identity formation and the practice of culture, enacted as a choice over time. The complexity of Aboriginal young people's experiences of cultural connection over time gives rise to a new understanding of cultural connection as a journey of culturally connecting, wherein the risk of cultural disconnection is complicated by intergenerational child removals, dominant discourse about what constitutes Aboriginal culture, and removal from an Aboriginal cultural milieu.
Protected area downgrading, downsizing, and degazettement in Cambodia: Enabling conditions and opportunities for intervention
Authors: Nuttall Matthew , Olsson Erik , Washington Harri , Ung Vises , Bunnefeld Nils , Merriman Joel , Griffin Olly , Hobson Keziah , Diment Alex , Kroner Rachel Golden
Published: February 2023

Protected area (PA) sustainability is challenged worldwide by legal downgrading, downsizing, and degazettement (PADDD). National and local case studies of ecologically destructive PADDD events provide useful insights that may help respond to or prevent future events. Using information from legal documents and expert input, we identified 37 PADDD events that affected two adjacent PAs in northeastern Cambodia differently despite similar economic, environmental, and social conditions. Important differences in local context led to the eventual degazettement (100% loss) of one PA and downsizing (10.49% loss) of the other, the rest of which remains protected. This case study confirms the contribution of secure Indigenous land tenure to durable conservation governance and demonstrates the importance of investing in site‐level capacity to ensure that social and ecological conditions are monitored and proposed PADDD events can be successfully challenged.
Wicked incarnations: Jesus, intra‐action, climate change
Authors: Ramler Mari E.
Published: February 2023

To take incarnation seriously, Creation Care Christians, such as Douglas and Jonathan Moo, focus on Jesus’ divinity in incarnation. If the divine Jesus was fully flesh, then creation must be good. And if we do not take care of it, we are sinning, they reason. Laurel C. Schneider's promiscuous view of incarnation insists on a porous flesh, one that is materially entangled with the world. This is beyond Sallie McFague's model of the world as God's body. Applying Schneider's promiscuous incarnation, Mary‐Jane Rubenstein claims that the world is God's body, and, as such, God does not transcend matter as Ernest Simmons suggests. For Catherine Keller, unknowable divine interdependence must move us to civic action. In the middle of this conversation, I offer the term wicked incarnations to make explicit the intra‐action of divinity and the world in its incarnations. To take incarnation seriously is to acknowledge incarnations as a dynamism of divine and material forces, neither of which pre‐exist their relationship. I join Keller in hoping that this moves us to care about and for the material world, its changing climate, and our intra‐active relationship with nonhuman, divine presence.
Equations to describe the amount and rate of sorption
Authors: Barrow N. J.
Published: February 2023

The partition of materials that react with soil between the solid and the solution phase, and how this changes with time, can often be described by a simple equation: S = a cb1tb2 where S is the amount sorbed, c is the solution concentration, t the time of contact, and a, b1 and b2 are parameters. However, when the range of values for sorption is large, it is apparent that both b1 and b2 increase with decreasing sorption. At low values for sorption, b1 approaches 1, and sorption plots are nearly linear. These observations are consistent with a mechanistic model in which it is postulated that the materials react with heterogenous sites. As the amount of sorption decreases, the heterogeneity of the occupied sites decreases. This is why b1 increases. Because there is heterogeneity of occupied sites, there is a range of rates for the subsequent reaction. This is why the rates are proportional to a fractional index of time. It is better to describe the effects of time this way than by using several first‐order equations.
Aerial insect biomass, but not phenological mismatch, is associated with chick survival of an insectivorous bird
Authors: Martay Blaise , Leech David I. , Shortall Chris R. , Bell James R. , Thackeray Stephen J. , Hemming Deborah L. , Pearce‐Higgins James W.
Published: February 2023

Recent insect abundance declines may have affected populations of insectivorous bird species but evidence for this is limited. Here, we use spatially overlapping 29‐year time‐series of aerial insect biomass and Barn SwallowHirundo rusticanumbers and breeding success from southern England to model the association between changes in invertebrate prey abundance, Swallow productivity and population trends. We found a positive statistical relationship between Swallow chick survival and the biomass of aerial insects available for chicks. In nests where at least one chick fledged, 96.7% of chicks were predicted to survive to fledging where there was high insect biomass (an average of 0.62 g/day), compared with 87.4% of chicks surviving to fledging where there was the lowest insect biomass (0.02 g/day; excluding the greatest and smallest 5% of insect biomass measurements). The amount of food available for chicks was largely a function of annual variation in insect abundance rather than the phenology of egg‐laying and insect emergence. However, we did not find a correlation between annual insect abundance and subsequent Swallow population growth. In the context of concerns about declining insect abundance, this study shows how changes in insect biomass may affect the productivity of an insectivorous bird at a regional scale, but with uncertain implications for population size at that same scale.
Intellectual functioning in survivors of extremely low birthweight: Cognitive outcomes in childhood and adolescence
Authors: Mathewson K. J. , Saigal S. , Van Lieshout R. J. , Schmidt L. A.
Published: February 2023

Background

Infants born at extremely low birthweight (ELBW: ≤1000 g) are vulnerable to intellectual disabilities, but the factors that may distinguish between ELBW survivors with and without these impairments are not well understood. In this study, prospective associations between neonatal factors and functional outcomes in childhood and adolescence were compared in ELBW survivors with and without borderline intellectual functioning (BIF).

Methods

Borderline intellectual functioning was defined by IQ < 85, assessed at 8 years. Among 146 ELBW survivors, 48 (33%) had IQ scores under 85, and 98 (67%) had scores equal to or over 85. Group differences in demographic and risk factors were assessed via t‐test, chi‐squared analysis or non‐parametric tests. Neonatal factors that differed between ELBW groups were tested for association with adaptive behaviour assessed at age 5 years, and reading and arithmetic skills assessed at ages 8 and 15 years, using hierarchical regression models.

Results

Extremely low birthweight survivors with BIF had significantly lower birthweights than ELBW survivors without BIF (790 vs. 855 g, P < 0.01) and were more likely to be born to mothers with lower socioeconomic status (SES) (78% vs. 48%, P < 0.01). These ELBW survivors also were more likely to be diagnosed with significant neurosensory impairment (NSI; 35% vs. 19%, P < 0.04), experienced more bronchopulmonary dysplasia (56% vs. 38%, P < 0.04), received more days of respiratory support (median 33 vs. 14 days, P < 0.01) and remained in hospital for longer periods (median 81 vs. 63 days, P < 0.03). Birthweight, familial SES, NSI and duration of respiratory support were significant predictors for one or more outcomes. Across groups, lower familial SES was associated with lower academic scores (Ps < 0.05), and NSI predicted lower adaptive functioning (Ps < 0.001). Other associations were moderated by group: among ELBW survivors with BIF, heavier birthweights predicted better arithmetic skills, the presence of NSI was associated with poorer arithmetic skills and more ventilation days predicted poorer reading skills.

Conclusions

At birth, ELBW survivors with BIF faced more physiological and social disadvantages and required more medical intervention than their ELBW peers without BIF. Smaller birth size, NSI burden and prolonged neonatal ventilatory support displayed gradients of risk for childhood and adolescent academic outcomes across groups. Whereas academic performance in ELBW survivors with BIF was sensitive to variation in birth size, NSI or ventilation days, ELBW survivors without BIF attained thresholds of intellectual ability that were sufficient to support higher levels of academic performance at both ages, regardless of their status on these factors. The findings are discussed in relation to Zigler's developmental theory of intellectual disability.
Centering transgender consumers in conceptualizations of marketplace marginalization and digital spaces
Authors: Hansman Beck , Drenten Jenna
Published: February 2023

The purpose of this study is to center transgender consumers in the conceptualizations between marketplace marginalization and digital spaces. We examine transgender crowdfunding as a hashtag‐bounded digital space created by and for the transgender community–namely, the #TransCrowdFund digital space on Twitter. We draw on trans digital geographies as a novel analytical lens to focus attention on transgender consumers' unique experiences in and between digital spaces. Through qualitative hashtag mapping, we analyzed a sample of 200 Twitter profiles and accompanying tweets drawn from individuals using the #TransCrowdFund hashtag. Findings suggest transgender consumers utilize crowdfunding as a hashtag‐bounded digital space in three ways: accessing networks, narrativizing needs, and signaling identity. Within each of these functional uses, underlying tensions arise in navigating transphobic marketplace marginalization, unique to transgender consumer well‐being. Our research demonstrates the power of centering transgender consumers–both conceptually and contextually–in consumer research and offers implications for scholars and policy makers.
A narration of x‐o.global: First steps towards the perversion of GPS in the tropical cartographies of Latin American migration
Authors: Reyes‐Retana Jerónimo
Published: February 2023

Over the last ten years, the democratization of smartphones has become a vital factor in closing the ties between mobile technologies and migratory flows that entail cultural integration processes. Official reports published by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) demonstrate how, for people in a context of mobility, smartphones represent not only an essential navigation tool, but also an almost sacred artifact providing emotional resilience to complete arduous journeys of forced displacement. x‐o.global recognizes and addresses this situation by proposing an alternative usage of smartphones and the Global Positioning System (GPS) through a geolocative platform that enables interactive spaces for auditory stimulation. By inserting GPS‐sensitive sound maps into sites offering humanitarian support across the Latin American migratory pathways, x‐o.global enables interactive experiences connecting virtuality with reality. As a project uprooting from the grounds of socially engaged and cross‐platform art‐making, x‐o.global's framework looks forward to instigating tropicalized processes capable of reprogramming global networks of technological control—such GPS—to overhaul the migratory crisis in The Americas.
AVNRT cryoablation in children <26 kg: efficacy and safety of electrophysiologically guided low‐voltage bridge strategy
Authors: Drago Fabrizio , Raimondo Cristina , Tamborrino Pietro Paolo , Silvetti Massimo Stefano , Alberio Antonino Maria Quintilio , Annibali Roberta , Fanti Veronica , Raponi Massimiliano
Published: February 2023

The recently published “electrophysiologically guided low‐voltage bridge (LVB) strategy” is effective in the ablation of atrioventricular nodal re‐entry tachycardia (AVNRT) in children. This study aimed to evaluate its efficacy and safety in children <26 kgs. Fourteen children [64% males, median age 6.5 years (IQR 6–8 years), median weight 25.5 kg (IQR 24–26 kg)] with AVNRT were treated. In all patients, we detected a LVB associated to a typical slow pathway potential. The acute success rate was 100% with a mean of 5.5 cryoablation deliveries. All procedures were performed with near‐zero fluoroscopic exposure (median time 0.15 min, IQR 0–0.7 min), in six patients fluoroscopy was 0 min. There were no complications or recurrences during the follow‐up (median 20.91 months, IQR 11.7–26.7 months).
Unexpectedly low oxygen saturation in a child with a variant hemoglobin
Authors: Burstal Richard , Ross Bryony
Published: February 2023

We report a child with an unexpected low saturation reading despite normal values having been recorded soon after birth. A family history of Rothschild hemoglobin variant affecting the father was obtained. Saturation values improved with oxygen and anesthesia was uneventful. The development of low saturation values as the child matures is explained, and management for future health presentations outlined.
Provision of helpful review videos: Effects of video characteristics on perceived helpfulness
Authors: Park Kyungmin , Lee Stephanie , Doosti Shahryar , Tan Yong
Published: February 2023

With the rapid growth and popularity of YouTube, an increasing number of consumers rely on online product review videos to obtain product‐related information. As the provision of online review videos grows and consumers increasingly rely on them for their purchase decisions, understanding factors that contribute to the perceived helpfulness of video reviews becomes critical for video review management. This paper examines how various visual and vocal characteristics of online review videos are associated with the perceived helpfulness of videos. We collect detailed observational data on 13,840 electronic product review videos posted on YouTube and employ video content analysis, speech recognition, and natural language processing techniques to extract the visual and vocal characteristics of review videos. By using econometric models, we find that the increase in visual stimulation, captured by brightness and visual dynamics, increases the perceived helpfulness of reviews. In addition, featuring reviewers’ faces in review videos increases the perceived helpfulness of videos. Consumers also perceive review videos in which reviewers express more positive facial emotions as more helpful. Furthermore, lower voice pitch and faster speech rates are associated with higher perceived helpfulness of reviews. To complement the empirical analysis and further isolate the causal effects of review brightness and pitch, we conduct controlled experiments. Overall, the findings can facilitate the management and operation of online review videos for product reviewers, businesses, review platforms, and consumers. In particular, the findings provide direct and actionable guidance to content generators who aim to create more helpful product reviews.
Regulating government affairs: Integrating lobbying research and policy concerns
Authors: Coen David , Katsaitis Alexander , Vannoni Matia
Published: February 2023

Lobbying has never been as sophisticated, complex, and well‐funded as it is today. Significantly, interest group strategies are more advanced than the regulatory practices meant to contain them. This raises concerns about states' ability to resist unwanted influence from interest groups. How can government regulations be brought up to speed to address 21st‐century lobbying practices? We argue that there are three critical dimensions to focus on: (i) regulatory consolidation; (ii) system interoperability; and (iii) open‐source implementation. These aspects address the need for better coordination within jurisdictions, cooperation across systems, and effective use of public resources. Developing future regulations along these lines can help policy to leap‐ahead interest groups; while limiting unwanted adverse effects on states' administrative efficiency and political legitimacy. In doing so, we provide a constructive roadmap forward in the field, linking common discussions between researchers, policymakers, and policy stakeholders.
Between research and revival. Emerging trends among highly religious young Catholics in Italy
Authors: Bossi Luca , Botto Loris , Ricucci Roberta
Published: February 2023

Research shows that Italians’ religiosity is in constant decline. Religious literacy, individual and collective practice, participation in rituals, faith’s transmission and symbols’ sharing seem to be following a slow but inexorable downward trend. Catholic communities are being depopulated and churches are emptying out. These phenomena, already emerging in those generations born during the economic boom, seem to have a greater impact on younger generations: the decline of Catholicism as a socio‐cultural phenomenon is characterising our era. Despite those general trends, young generations are not merely abandoning their faith. Even if faith has lost its social function, young Catholics in Italy often cultivate it on an individual level, between the autonomous search for their own spiritual path and the reproduction of forms of high religiosity derived from the family. In some cases, the younger generations show a renewed religiosity, stronger and more secure than that of their parents, which may sometimes involve them in a path of Catholicism’s rediscovery. The article presents and discusses results on highly religious young Catholics deriving from empirical research on intergenerational religious transmission in Italian families, which has been conducted through focus groups and in‐depth interviews between 2020 and 2022.
A case of mistaken MELD (model for end stage liver disease) score—How an acute hemolytic transfusion reaction falsely altered a patient's transplant status
Authors: Alvi Saqib , Erony Sean , Potochny Evelyn , George Melissa
Published: February 2023

Background

An acute hemolytic transfusion reaction (AHTR) caused by intravascular hemolysis features a decrease in hemoglobin/hematocrit, reduced haptoglobin, and increases in creatinine, and bilirubin. Acute intravascular hemolysis carries its own morbidity and mortality, especially in the setting of a patient liver disease related pre‐existing alterations in hemostasis. Additionally, AHTR significantly impacts the laboratory values used in calculating the Model for End Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score and thus liver transplant status.

Case Report

Herein, we present a case of a patient with hepatorenal syndrome due to ESLD on the transplant list who developed an AHTR due to an evolving anti‐Jka that initially presented as non‐specific reactivity in solid phase adherence testing. This evolving antibody caused intravascular hemolysis and a significant increase in bilirubin from 4.7 to 17.1 mg/dl, thus, raising the MELD score, increasing the predicted short‐term mortality risk, and affecting the patient's transplant status.

Results

Acute hemolysis caused significant elevation of bilirubin raising the MELD score which increased both the predicted mortality to 70 percent and the perceived urgency of transplant. The MELD score improved after resolution of the AHTR and clearing of the offending Jka‐positive RBCs.

Conclusion

This case highlights the effect of AHTR on parameters used in the determination of MELD score which significantly increases the perceived short‐term mortality and urgency of liver transplant. Therefore, any nonspecific reactivity in initial workup could be due to developing antibodies, and put the patient at higher risk for an acute hemolytic transfusion reaction.
Evaluation of automated external defibrillator designed for people in dogs
Authors: LeSueur Meriel C. , Rozanski Elizabeth A. , Karlin Emily T. , LaMastro Joey , Rush John E.
Published: February 2023

Objective

To determine if human automated external defibrillators (AEDs) could successfully record cardiac electrical activity in dogs, make appropriate recommendations regarding shock delivery, and characterize skin preparation required for a readable ECG based on dog haircoat characteristics.

Design

Prospective study of AED use in dogs conducted between January and March 2021.

Setting

University teaching hospital.

Animals

Three groups of client‐owned dogs were evaluated. Group 1 consisted of 23 healthy dogs with sinus rhythms, group 2 consisted of 9 dogs with documented cardiac arrhythmias, and group 3 consisted of 9 dogs receiving CPR following naturally occurring cardiopulmonary arrest.

Materials and Methods

Haircoat characteristics and clipping or ECG paste required to obtain a readable ECG were recorded. The time interval from a readable ECG by the investigator until AED shock advisement was measured. Correctness of shock advice was recorded. Analyses were performed using commercial statistical software.P‐values <0.05 were considered significant.

Results

The attending veterinarian judged the ECG on the AED to be readable in all dogs. Time to shock advisement in all dogs was median 18 (range: 7–180) seconds. Dogs with heavy, long, or double haircoats required clipping in 24 of 27 (89%) cases to obtain a readable ECG. ECG paste on the AED pad was required in 36 of 40 dogs (90%) in order to obtain a readable ECG. The AED advice for delivery of shock was appropriate in 51 of 52 (98%) queries of the machine across all groups.

Conclusions

Human AEDs can successfully record cardiac electrical activity in dogs. AEDs appropriately recommend delivery of a shock most times, contingent on skin preparation. Dogs with double, long, or heavy haircoats should be clipped prior to pad application. ECG paste will aid AED reading in all haircoat types. Further investigation is warranted into AED use in dogs, particularly in general practices.
GEOMETRICAL FEATURE OF LUNG LESION IDENTIFICATION USING COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY SCAN IMAGES
Authors: Abdullah Mohd Firdaus , Sulaiman Siti Noraini , Osman Muhammad Khusairi , A. Karim Noor Khairiah , Setumin Samsul , Isa Iza Sazanita , Che Ani Adi Izhar
Published: February 2023

Lung lesion identification is an important aspect of an early lung cancer diagnosis. Early identification of lung cancer may assist physicians in treating patients. This paper uses computed tomography scan images to present a lung lesion identification geometrical feature. From the previous studies, lung segmentation is particularly challenging because differences in pulmonary inflation with an elastic chest wall can result in significant variability in volumes and margins when attempting to automate lung segmentation. Besides, the features used to describe a lung lesion focus on image features which are geometric, appearance, texture, and others. This study develops an image processing technique that uses image segmentation algorithms to segment lung lesions in computed tomography images. The suggested approach includes the following stages, which require image processing techniques: data collection, image segmentation, and performance evaluation. The computed tomography scan images were collected from Advanced Medical and Dental Institute (AMDI), Universiti Sains Malaysia database. As a contribution to biomedical engineering, this study has successfully calculated the performance of the image processing method for lung segmentation, which gets an average accuracy of 99.38%, recall is 99.45%, and F-score is 99.6. The lung lesion segmentation approach based on the object's size could help investigate image abnormality for medical analysis. From the study, 80% of the total lesion identification using the proposed method was correctly predicted when compared with the radiologist's lesion mark. The experiment results found clear support for the next stage of this research.
EFFECT OF TEMPERATURE AND SOLAR IRRADIANCE ON THE PERFORMANCE OF 50 HZ PHOTOVOLTAIC WIRELESS POWER TRANSFER SYSTEM
Authors: Irwanto M. , Nugraha Y. T. , Hussin N. , Nisja I.
Published: February 2023

A wireless power transfer (WPT) system transfers an alternating current (AC) power from a TC (transmitter coil) to a RC (receiver coil), using an electromagnetic field concept. Several previous reports on WPT systems were able to transmit this power, although their AC frequencies were high in some kilohertz or megahertz (kHz or MHz). These frequencies were unable to be applied directly on the AC loads or only administered to the direct current (DC) energy after rectification through a rectifier circuit. In the receiver phase, the AC power was also very low, due to the minimum voltage and current on the RC. Therefore, this study aims to determine the effects of temperature and solar irradiance on the performance of the 50 Hz photovoltaic wireless power transfer (PVWPT) system. This system is constructed by some PV modules in series connection, to achieve a required DC voltage level on the DC-DC converter and receiver phase. It also converts DC to AC voltages on the TC (transmitter coil) of an H-bridge inverter, with a receiver circuit and a magnetic relay coil positioned between the TC and RC (transmitter and receiver coil). The results showed that solar irradiance and temperature affected the performances of the PV module and PVWPT system. This indicated that higher solar irradiance increased the performance of the PVWPT system, whose maximum efficiency was achieved by positioning the magnetic relay coil between the TC and RC.
Veinte años tejiendo un libro infinito: Universitas Psychologica
Authors: López-López Wilson
Published: February 2023

Editorial.
Kinetostatic Modeling of Continuum Delta Robot With Variable Curvature Continuum Joints
Authors: Wang Xiang , Ding Yue , Zeng Lingyun , Zhu Chuanxiang , Wu Baibo , Xu Kai
Published: February 2023

Continuum robots have attracted lots of attention due to their structural compliance, manipulation dexterity, and design compactness. To extend the application scenarios, a slender continuum robot, the CurviPicker, was developed for low-load medium-speed pick-and-place tasks in a previous study. To improve the payload capacity and positioning accuracy of the CurviPicker, a novel Continuum Delta Robot (CDR) was then proposed with three dual-continuum-joint translators in a preliminary investigation. However, the initial version of the CDR did not fully utilize the bending ranges of its continuum joints. In addition, while being modeled using the constant curvature assumption for the continuum joints, the CDR shows lowered positioning accuracy for heavier objects, as the CDR’s continuum joints diverge from the assumed constant curvature shapes. In this paper, the design of the CDR was re-optimized to enable wider bending ranges of the continuum joints (>90 deg) to generate an enlarged workspace, taking into consideration several possible structural interferences. Furthermore, a kinetostatic model is derived based on the Cosserat rod theory to reduce the positioning errors caused by the external loads. The experimental result showed that the workspace is enlarged to approximately 9.47 × 107 mm3 compared with the volume of 6.57 × 107 mm3 of the initial version. Within this enlarged workspace, the average positioning error with a 1000-g load was reduced to 1.93 mm, compared with 4.43 mm obtained by the previous constant curvature assumption.
Deep Reinforcement Learning-Based Control of Stewart Platform With Parametric Simulation in ROS and Gazebo
Authors: Yadavari Hadi , Tavakol Aghaei Vahid , İkizoğlu Serhat
Published: February 2023

The Stewart platform is an entirely parallel robot with mechanical differences from typical serial robotic manipulators, which has a wide application area ranging from flight and driving simulators to structural test platforms. This work concentrates on learning to control a complex model of the Stewart platform using state-of-the-art deep reinforcement learning (DRL) algorithms. In this regard, to enhance the reliability of the learning performance and to have a test bed capable of mimicking the behavior of the system completely, a precisely designed simulation environment is presented. Therefore, we first design a parametric representation for the kinematics of the Stewart platform in Gazebo and robot operating system (ROS) and integrate it with a Python class to conveniently generate the structures in simulation description format (SDF). Then, to control the system, we benefit from three DRL algorithms: the asynchronous advantage actor–critic (A3C), the deep deterministic policy gradient (DDPG), and the proximal policy optimization (PPO) to learn the control gains of a proportional integral derivative (PID) controller for a given reaching task. We chose to apply these algorithms due to the Stewart platform’s continuous action and state spaces, making them well-suited for our problem, where exact controller tuning is a crucial task. The simulation results show that the DRL algorithms can successfully learn the controller gains, resulting in satisfactory control performance.
Naphthalene Carboxylation in the Sulfate-Reducing Enrichment Culture N47 Is Proposed to Proceed via 1,3-Dipolar Cycloaddition to the Cofactor Prenylated Flavin Mononucleotide
Authors: Heker Isabelle , Haberhauer Gebhard , Meckenstock Rainer U.
Published: February 2023

Pollution with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons poses a great hazard to humans and animals, with considerable long-term effects. The anaerobic degradation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in anoxic zones and anaerobic growth of such organisms is very slow, leading to only poor investigation of the degradation pathways, so far.
Late Quaternary–Recent intraplate topographic uplift of the St. Francois Mountains (Ozark Plateau), Missouri (USA), driven by differential density and erosion
Authors: Kim Dong-Eun , Weber John , Seong Yeong Bae , Reminga-DeYoung Katy , Yu Byung Yong
Published: February 2023

The origin of relatively high topography in intraplate settings is elusive. The St. Francois Mountains, a tectonically inactive region with high relief, a Mesoproterozoic granite and rhyolite core, and Paleozoic sedimentary flanks, provide insights into the evolution of intraplate landscapes. We determined 14 in situ10Be exposure ages, 23 10Be catchment-wide denudation rates (CWDRs), and geomorphic indices using a geographic information system, and we modeled surface uplift using an isostatic-flexure model. CWDRs varied from ~5 to 10 ± 1.7 mm/k.y. and averaged 1.5 times greater in streams draining granite and rhyolite than in those draining flanking sedimentary rocks. In situ results from bedrock strath terraces gave Quaternary incision ages and incision rates that were tenfold higher than CWDRs. Major knickpoints (locally called shut-ins), all at 200 ± 70 m elevation, are located at contacts between the igneous and sedimentary rocks. Our exposure and denudation results inform isostatic-flexural modeling, which together support the conclusion that late Quaternary–Recent surface uplift driven by differential density and erosion focused in the igneous core is creating significant topography and relief in this intraplate setting.
Supplemental Material: Hydrothermal sulfate surges promote rare earth element transport and mineralization
Authors: Wan Ye , Chou I-Ming , al. et
Published: February 2023

Detailed descriptions of the experimental methods, supporting information, and supplemental Videos S1–S6. 
Supplemental Material: Forming and preserving aragonite in shear zones: First report of blueschist facies metamorphism in the Jabal Akhdar Dome, Oman Mountains
Authors: Zuccari Costantino , al. et
Published: February 2023

Analytical details, Figures S1–S6, and Table S1. 
Supplemental Material: Dolomite recrystallization revealed by Δ47/U-Pb thermochronometry in the Upper Jurassic Arab Formation, United Arab Emirates
Authors: Gasparrini Marta , Mangenot Xavier , al. et
Published: February 2023

Dolomite petrography and O-C-Sr isotope geochemistry (including Tables S1 and S2 and Figures S1A–S1C), Δ47 and U-Pb methods, additional Δ47/U-Pb data and discussion (including Figures S2 and S3), and U-Pb raw data (Table S3). 
Genetic and metabolic investigations for neurodevelopmental disorders: position statement of the Canadian College of Medical Geneticists (CCMG)
Authors: Carter Melissa T , Srour Myriam , Au Ping-Yee Billie , Buhas Daniela , Dyack Sarah , Eaton Alison , Inbar-Feigenberg Michal , Howley Heather , Kawamura Anne , Lewis Suzanne M E , McCready Elizabeth , Nelson Tanya N , Vallance Hilary
Published: February 2023

Purpose and scope

The aim of this position statement is to provide recommendations for clinicians regarding the use of genetic and metabolic investigations for patients with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), specifically, patients with global developmental delay (GDD), intellectual disability (ID) and/or autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This document also provides guidance for primary care and non-genetics specialists caring for these patients while awaiting consultation with a clinical geneticist or metabolic specialist.

Methods of statement development

A multidisciplinary group reviewed existing literature and guidelines on the use of genetic and metabolic investigations for the diagnosis of NDDs and synthesised the evidence to make recommendations relevant to the Canadian context. The statement was circulated for comment to the Canadian College of Medical Geneticists (CCMG) membership-at-large and to the Canadian Pediatric Society (Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Committee); following incorporation of feedback, it was approved by the CCMG Board of Directors on 1 September 2022.

Results and conclusions

Chromosomal microarray is recommended as a first-tier test for patients with GDD, ID or ASD. Fragile X testing should also be done as a first-tier test when there are suggestive clinical features or family history. Metabolic investigations should be done if there are clinical features suggestive of an inherited metabolic disease, while the patient awaits consultation with a metabolic physician. Exome sequencing or a comprehensive gene panel is recommended as a second-tier test for patients with GDD or ID. Genetic testing is not recommended for patients with NDDs in the absence of GDD, ID or ASD, unless accompanied by clinical features suggestive of a syndromic aetiology or inherited metabolic disease.
Primary central nervous system lymphoma: a practical guide for neurologists
Authors: Saad Toni , Tuck Alexander , Golestani Farhad , Smith Paul , McCulloch Rory
Published: February 2023

Primary central nervous system lymphoma is rare, comprising 4% of intracranial neoplasms. Although haematologists or oncologists subsequently manage the condition, it is often neurologists who first make, or at least suspect, the diagnosis. This article reviews the disease, its clinical and radiological features and details the work-up needed to achieve a diagnosis (namely histological or cytological confirmation) and to prepare the patient for treatment. We note the importance of brain biopsy, the role of corticosteroids and the varied treatment options.
What happens in Vegas, stays in your lungs: an assessment of fine particulate matter in casinos that prohibit and allow smoking in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
Authors: Tynan Michael A , Cohen Martin A , Harris Jeffrey R
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Despite progress in adoption of smoke-free policies, smoking in casinos is allowed in some US states, including Nevada. In 2020, for the first time, a resort-style casino in Las Vegas prohibited smoking voluntarily. This study is the first to assess air quality in this casino and compare results with similar casinos that allow smoking.

Methods

A real-time personal aerosol monitor evaluated particulate matter with a diameter <2.5 µm (PM2.5), a surrogate for secondhand smoke (SHS). PM2.5 was measured at eight Las Vegas casinos, including the smoke-free casino. Each casino was visited twice, and PM2.5 was assessed in smoking-permitted gaming areas and areas where smoking is otherwise prohibited.

Results

Average PM2.5 levels were significantly higher in casinos that allow smoking, for both casino gaming areas and areas where smoking is otherwise prohibited (p<0.05). Mean PM2.5 in gaming areas was 164.9 µg/m
3
in casinos that allow smoking and 30.5 µg/m
3
in the smoke-free casino. Mean PM2.5 in areas where smoking is otherwise prohibited was 83.2 µg/m
3
in casinos which allowed smoking in gaming areas, and 48.1 µg/m
3
in the smoke-free casino.

Conclusion

Despite robust evidence about the harms of SHS, tens of thousands of casino employees and tens of millions of tourists are exposed to high levels of SHS in Las Vegas casinos annually, with PM2.5 levels 5.4 times higher in gaming areas when compared with a smoke-free casino. The only way to protect people from SHS exposure is to prohibit smoking in all indoor areas.
Complications and its risk factors of percutaneous subclavian vein catheters in pediatric patients: enhancing the outcomes of a university hospital in a low-income and middle-income country
Authors: Jarraya Anouar , Kammoun Manel , Chtourou Ameni , Ammar Saloua , Kolsi Kamel
Published: February 2023

Objective

Assessing central venous catheter-related complications with regular feedback and investigating risk factors are mandatory to enhance outcomes. The aim of this study is to assess our experience in the management of pediatric subclavian vein catheters (SVCs) and to investigate the main risk factors for complications.

Methods

In this prospective observational study, we included children aged 3 months to 14 years who underwent infraclavicular subclavian vein catheterization consecutively using the anatomic landmark technique. Patients were divided into two groups: group 1 included complicated catheters and group 2 included non-complicated catheters. The management protocol was standardized for all patients. After comparing the two groups, univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to investigate the risk factors for complications.

Results

In this study, we included 134 pediatric patients. The rate of complications was 32.8%. The main complications were central line-associated bloodstream infection (63.6%), bleeding and/or hematoma (22.7%), mechanical complications (13.6%), and vein thrombosis (13.6%). After adjustment for confounding factors, predictors of catheter-related complications were difficult insertion procedure (adjusted odds ratio (aOR)=9.4; 95% confidential interval (CI): 2.32 to 38.4), thrombocytopenia (aOR=4.43; 95% CI: 1.16 to 16.86), comorbidities (aOR=2.93; 95% CI: 0.58 to 14.7), and neutropenia (aOR=5.45; 95% CI: 2.29 to 13.0).

Conclusions

High rates of complications were associated with difficult catheter placement and patients with comorbidities and severe thrombocytopenia. To reduce catheter-related morbidity, we suggest an ultrasound-guided approach, a multidisciplinary teaching program to improve nursing skills, and the use of less invasive devices for patients with cancer.