bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Hidden aliens: Application of digital PCR to track an exotic foraminifer across the Skagerrak (North Sea) correlates well with traditional morphospecies analysis
Authors: Morin Filip , Panova Marina Antonina Zoe , Schweizer Magali , Wiechmann Marlene , Eliassen Nicole , Sundberg Per , Cluzel‐Burgalat Lili , Polovodova Asteman Irina 
Published: July 2023

AbstractThe problem of invasive species is a well‐studied one, but knowledge of free‐living unicellular eukaryotic invasive species is lacking. A potentially invasive foraminifer (Rhizaria), Nonionella sp. T1, was recently discovered in the Skagerrak and its fjords. Digital polymerase chain reaction (dPCR) was applied to track the spread of this non‐indigenous species using a new dPCR assay (T1‐1). The use of dPCR appears highly complementary to traditional hand picking of foraminiferal shells from the sediment, and is far less time‐consuming. This study indicates that Nonionella sp. T1 has bypassed the outer Skagerrak strait, instead becoming established in Swedish west coast fjords, constituting up to half of the living foraminiferal community in fjord mouth areas. The ecology of Nonionella sp. T1 and its potential invasive impacts are still largely unknown, but it appears to be an opportunist using several energy sources such as nitrate respiration and kleptoplasty along with a possibly more efficient reproductive strategy to gain an advantage over the native foraminiferal species. Future ecological studies of Nonionella sp. T1 could be aided by dPCR and the novel Nonionella sp. T1‐specific T1‐1 assay.
Repeatability and reproducibility of comparison decisions by firearms examiners
Authors: Monson Keith L. , Smith Erich D. , Peters Eugene M. 
Published: July 2023

AbstractIn a comprehensive study to assess various aspects of the performance of qualified forensic firearms examiners, volunteer examiners compared both bullets and cartridge cases fired from three different types of firearms. They rendered opinions on each comparison according to the Association of Firearm & Tool Mark Examiners (AFTE) Range of Conclusions, as Identification, Inconclusive (A, B, or C), Elimination, or Unsuitable. In this part of the study, comparison sets used previously to characterize the overall accuracy of examiners were blindly resubmitted to examiners to assess the repeatability (105 examiners; 5700 comparisons of bullets and cartridge cases) and reproducibility (191 examiners of bullets, 193 of cartridge cases; 5790 comparisons) of firearms examinations. Data gathered using the prevailing AFTE Range were also recategorized into two hypothetical scoring systems. Consistently positive differences between observed agreement and expected agreement indicate that the repeatability and reproducibility of examiners exceed chance agreement. When averaged over bullets and cartridge cases, the repeatability of comparison decisions (involving all five levels of the AFTE Range) was 78.3% for known matches and 64.5% for known nonmatches. Similarly averaged reproducibility was 67.3%% for known matches and 36.5% for known nonmatches. For both repeatability and reproducibility, many of the observed disagreements were between a definitive and inconclusive category. Examiner decisions are reliable and trustworthy in the sense that identifications are unlikely when examiners are comparing non‐matching items, and eliminations are unlikely when they are comparing matching items.
Standardising the biochemical confirmation of adult male hypogonadism: A joint position statement by the Society for Endocrinology and Association of Clinical Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine
Authors: Jayasena Channa N. , de Silva Nipun L. , O'Reilly Michael W. , MacKenzie Finlay , Marrington Rachel , Jones Hugh , Livingston Mark , Downie Paul , Hackett Geoff , Ramachandran Sud , Tomlinson Jeremy , David Janine , Boot Christopher , Patel Mayur , Tarling Julie , Wu Fredrick , Quinton Richard 
Published: July 2023

AbstractBackgroundInter‐assay variation between different immunoassays and different mass spectrometry methods hampers the biochemical confirmation of male hypogonadism. Furthermore, some laboratories utilise assay manufacturer reference ranges that do not necessarily mirror assay performance characteristics, with the lower limit of normality ranging from 4.9 nmol/L to 11 nmol/L. The quality of the normative data underlying commercial immunoassay reference ranges is uncertain.DesignA working group reviewed published evidence and agreed upon standardised reporting guidance to augment total testosterone reports.ResultsEvidence‐based guidance on appropriate blood sampling, clinical action limits, and other major factors likely to affect the interpretation of results are provided.ConclusionsThis article aims to improve the quality of the interpretation of testosterone results by non‐specialist clinicians. It also discusses approaches for assay harmonisation which have been successful in some but not all healthcare systems.
Implementation strategies to support ultrasound thyroid nodule risk stratification: A systematic review
Authors: Edwards Matthew , Brito Juan P. , Salloum Ramzi G. , Hoang Jenny , Singh Ospina Naykky 
Published: July 2023

AbstractBackgroundUltrasound risk stratification can improve the care of patients with thyroid nodules by providing a structured and systematic approach for the evaluation of thyroid nodule features and thyroid cancer risk. The optimal strategies to support implementation of high quality thyroid nodule risk stratification are unknown. This study seeks to summarise strategies used to support implementation of thyroid nodule ultrasound risk stratification in practice and their effects on implementation and service outcomes.MethodsThis is a systematic review of studies evaluating implementation strategies published between January 2000 and June 2022 that were identified on Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE, Ovid Cochrane, Scopus, or Web of Science. Screening of eligible studies, data collection and assessment for risk of bias was completed independently and in duplicate. Implementation strategies and their effects on implementation and service outcomes were evaluated and summarised.ResultsWe identified 2666 potentially eligible studies of which 8 were included. Most implementation strategies were directed towards radiologists. Common strategies to support the implementation of thyroid nodule risk stratification included: tools to standardise thyroid ultrasound reports, education on thyroid nodule risk stratification and use of templates/forms for reporting, and reminders at the point of care. System based strategies, local consensus or audit were less commonly described. Overall, the use of these strategies supported the implementation process of thyroid nodule risk stratification with variable effects on service outcomes.ConclusionsImplementation of thyroid nodule risk stratification can be supported by development of standardised reporting templates, education of users on risk stratification and reminders of use at the point of care. Additional studies evaluating the value of implementation strategies in different contexts are urgently needed.
Clinical profile and treatment outcomes among patients with sporadic and multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome‐related primary hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Mathew Uthara E. , Goyal Alpesh , Upadhyay Ashish D. , Kandasamy Devasenathipathy , Agarwal Shipra , Sharma Chitresh K. , Sharma Arundhati , Bal Chandrasekhar , Tandon Nikhil , Jyotsna Viveka P. 
Published: July 2023

AbstractObjectiveAccurate demarcation between multiple endocrine neoplasia, type 1 (MEN1)‐ related primary hyperparathyroidism (MPHPT) and sporadic PHPT (SPHPT) is important to plan the management of primary parathyroid disease and surveillance for other endocrine and nonendocrine tumours. The objective of this study is to compare the clinical, biochemical and radiological features and surgical outcomes in patients with MPHPT versus SPHPT and to identify the predictors of MEN1 syndrome in PHPT.Design, Patients and MeasurementsThis was an ambispective observationalstudy involving 251 patients with SPHPT and 23 patients with MPHPT evaluated at the endocrine clinic of All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India between January 2015 and December 2021.ResultsThe prevalence of MEN1 syndrome among patients with PHPT was 8.2% and a genetic mutation was identified by Sanger sequencing in 26.1% of patients with MPHPT. Patients with MPHPT were younger (p < .001), had lower mean serum calcium (p = .01) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP; p = .03) levels and lower bone mineral density (BMD) Z score at lumbar spine (p < .001) and femoral neck (p = .007). The prevalence of renal stones (p = .03) and their complications (p = .006) was significantly higher in MPHPT group. On multivariable analysis, factors predictive of MPHPT were hyperplasia on histopathology [OR 40.1, p < .001], ALP levels within reference range [OR 5.6, p = .02] and lumbar spine BMD [OR 0.39 per unit increase in Z score, p < .001].ConclusionsPatients with MPHPT have more severe, frequent and early onset of bone and renal involvement despite milder biochemical features. A normal serum ALP, low BMD for age and gender at lumbar spine and histopathology evidence of hyperplasia are predictive factors for MEN1 syndrome in PHPT.
Social class as a challenge in educating for diversity—The case of a Finnish preschool
Authors: Mikander Pia , Mansikka Jan‐Erik 
Published: July 2023

AbstractThis study investigates how the staff in one preschool group in Finland deals with questions of social class. Despite a lack of reference to class in policy documents, social class emerges in three ways in the discussions among the Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) professionals: regarding how they view their group of children, in relation to their own inter‐relational dynamics, and in their perception of the practice in another less privileged ECEC setting. The study suggests a need for a more nuanced discussion about social class within ECEC, bearing in mind how it affects relations and the need for consciousness about how inequalities are reproduced.
Do‐it‐yourself continuous glucose monitoring in people aged 16 to 69 years with type 1 diabetes: A qualitative study
Authors: Sehgal Shekhar , Boucsein Alisa , Styles Sara , Palmer Octavia , Paul Ryan G. , Crocket Hamish , de Bock Martin , Wheeler Benjamin J. 
Published: July 2023

AbstractAimsIn many countries, real‐time continuous glucose monitoring (rt‐CGM) is not funded, and cost presents a barrier to access. A do‐it‐yourself conversion of intermittently scanned CGM (DIY‐CGM) is a cheaper alternative. This qualitative study aimed to explore user experiences with DIY‐CGM in people aged 16 to 69 years with type 1 diabetes (T1D).MethodsConvenience sampling was used to recruit participants for semi‐structured virtual interviews exploring experiences of DIY‐CGM use. Participants were recruited after completing the intervention arm of a crossover randomised controlled trial that evaluated DIY‐CGM versus intermittently scanned CGM (isCGM). Participants were previously naive to DIY‐CGM and rt‐CGM but not isCGM. The DIY‐CGM intervention consisted of a Bluetooth bridge connected to isCGM, adding rt‐CGM functionality over 8 weeks. Interviews were transcribed, then thematic analysis was performed.ResultsInterviews were with 12 people aged 16 to 65 years, with T1D: mean age ± SD 43 ± 14 years; baseline mean HbA1c ± SD 60 mmol/mol ± 9.9 (7.6 ± 0.9%) and time in range 59.8% ± 14.8%. Participants perceived that using DIY‐CGM improved both glycaemic control and aspects of quality of life. Alarm and trend functionality allowed participants to perceive reduced glycaemic variability overnight and following meals. The addition of a smartwatch increased discrete access to glucose information. There was a high degree of trust in DIY‐CGM. Challenges while using DIY‐CGM included signal loss during vigorous exercise, alarm fatigue and short battery life.ConclusionsThis study suggests that for users, DIY‐CGM appears to be an acceptable alternative method of rt‐CGM.
Elections hinder firms' access to credit
Authors: Léon Florian , Weill Laurent 
Published: July 2023

AbstractTo analyze whether the occurrence of elections affects access to credit for firms, we perform an investigation using firm‐level data covering 44 developed and developing countries. The results show that elections impair access to credit. Specifically, firms have lower access to credit in election years and pre‐election years as elections exacerbate political uncertainty. While higher borrower discouragement is a tangible negative effect of elections, their occurrence per se does not seem to affect loan acceptance by banks. We also document that the negative relationship between elections and credit access is shaped by country and election characteristics as well as firm characteristics.
Organizational unlearning: A process of tension imposition, integration, and splitting
Authors: Xu Ning , Wu Xiaobo , Du Jian , Li Sihan 
Published: July 2023

AbstractOrganizational unlearning plays a vital role in facilitating new product development (NPD); however, the microprocesses of unlearning (i.e., how to unlearn) remain unclear. We aim to open this black box by investigating how two important dimensions—beliefs and routines—change during the unlearning process, using a longitudinal case study approach. Through a case study of Geely Auto, we identified specific cognitive and behavioral practices in the unlearning process and categorized them into three stages according to their time of occurrence and consequences. By adopting a tension lens, we demonstrate that unlearning involves three sequential steps: tension imposition, integration, and splitting. Our case study demonstrates that unlearning NPD processes involves a complex interweaving of changes in beliefs and routines. We advance the literature on learning by revealing the microprocesses that underlie organizational unlearning, and we open a broad avenue for future research to explore the microfoundations of organizational unlearning.
Arrhythmias induced by dextrose‐insulin challenge test in nondiagnostic Brugada ECG patterns
Authors: Velázquez‐Rodríguez Enrique , Jiménez‐Cruz José Paz Marcelo 
Published: July 2023

AbstractIntroductionDynamic ECG changes in Brugada syndrome (BrS) are influenced by several factors, may not be apparent, and can be unmasked by a drug test.Methods and ResultsFour of six patients with nondiagnostic Brugada ECG index patterns underwent a dextrose‐insulin challenge test that resulted in J‐ST segment elevation and triggered arrhythmias.ConclusionInsulin action may be due in part to an outward shift in the K+ current at the end of action potential phase 1 and the dispersion of repolarization, leading to local re‐entry with arrhythmogenicity. This effect is likely a phenomenon‐specific to BrS.
Association between residual unipolar voltage and arrhythmia recurrence after left atrial posterior wall isolation for persistent atrial fibrillation
Authors: Kujiraoka Hirofumi , Hojo Rintaro , Arai Tomoyuki , Takahashi Masao , Fukamizu Seiji 
Published: July 2023

AbstractIntroductionPosterior wall isolation (PWI) combined with pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) has proven effective for persistent atrial fibrillation (AF). However, when performing PWI, creating transmural lesions with subendocardial ablation is sometimes difficult. Endocardial unipolar voltage amplitude had a higher sensitivity than bipolar voltage mapping for identifying intramural viable myocardium in the atria. In this study, we aimed to retrospectively investigate the correlation between the residual potential in the posterior wall (PW) following PWI for persistent AF and atrial arrhythmia recurrence using endocardial unipolar voltage.MethodsThis was a single‐center observational study. Patients who underwent PVI and PWI for persistent AF in the first procedure between March 2018 and December 2021 at the Tokyo Metropolitan Hiroo Hospital were included in this study. The patients were divided into two groups based on the presence of residual unipolar PW potentials after PWI with a cutoff of 1.08 mV and the recurrence of atrial arrhythmias was compared.ResultsIn total, 109 patients were included in the analysis. Forty‐three patients had residual unipolar potentials after PWI and 66 patients had no residual unipolar potentials. The atrial arrhythmia recurrence rate was significantly higher in the group with residual unipolar potential (41.8% vs. 17.9%, p = 0.003). The residual unipolar potential was an independent predictor of recurrence (odds ratio: 4.53; confidence interval: 1.67–12.3, p = 0.003).ConclusionResidual unipolar potential after PWI for persistent AF is associated with recurrent atrial arrhythmias.
Prospective randomized study comparing permanent pacing with rate drop response and closed loop stimulation in patients with vasovagal syncope where permanent pacing is indicated and selected as the appropriate treatment option
Authors: Prakash Atul , Sutton Richard 
Published: July 2023

AbstractBackgroundPacing for vasovagal syncope is established. Two pacing algorithms are available. The rate‐drop‐response (RDR‐Medtronic) is triggered by falling heart rate acting with modified rate‐hysteresis. The closed loop stimulation or system (CLS‐Biotronik) is triggered by impedance changes in the right ventricle reflecting falling volume and rising contractility. These are very different physiologically. Both algorithms carry favorable reports in clinical use.MethodsA randomized‐controlled superiority trial is proposed to compare the two algorithms for the control of vasovagal syncope in patients for whom pacing is indicated by current guidelines in North America and Europe. Available recent evidence may be seen as supporting superiority of CLS. No comparison between the two algorithms has been made. In this trial, patients will be centrally randomized to one or other algorithm on a 1:1 basis. Two‐hundred‐seventy‐six patients in each group will be recruited. Sample size is determined using a confidence interval of 95%, a power of 90%, and a drop‐out rate of 10% to detect an 11% difference between CLS and RDR. Recurrent symptom comparison will be made by an independent committee. The Co‐primary endpoints will be recurrent syncope burden compared with that in 24‐months preimplant, and occurrence of syncope in 24‐months follow‐up. Each outcome will be compared between the two algorithms. Secondary endpoints will be program and drug therapy changes over 24‐months follow‐up and quality of life by questionnaire at baseline,1 and 2 years.Results and ConclusionsThese are anticipated to clarify the device algorithm choice and, therefore, to improve patient care.
Differences between typical and reverse typical atrial flutter identified by ultrahigh resolution mapping
Authors: Hara Satoshi , Sato Yoshikazu , Kusa Shigeki , Miwa Naoyuki , Hirano Hidenori , Nakata Tadanori , Doi Junichi , Hachiya Hitoshi 
Published: July 2023

AbstractBackgroundAlthough atrial flutter (AFL) is a common arrhythmia that is based on a macro‐reentrant tachycardia around the tricuspid annulus, the factors giving rise to typical AFL (t‐AFL) versus reverse typical AFL (rt‐AFL) are unknown. To investigate the difference between t‐AFL and rt‐AFL circuits using ultrahigh resolution mapping of the right atrium.MethodsWe investigated 30 isthmus‐dependent AFL patients (mean age 71, 28 male) who underwent first‐time cavo‐tricuspid isthmus (CTI) ablation guided by Boston Scientific's Rhythmia mapping system and divided them into two groups: t‐AFL (22 patients) and rt‐AFL (8 patients). We compared the anatomy and electrophysiology of their reentrant circuits.ResultsBaseline patient characteristics, use of antiarrhythmic drugs, prevalence of atrial fibrillation, AFL cycle length (227.1 ± 21.4 vs. 245.5 ± 36.0 ms, p = .10), and CTI length (31.9 ± 8.3 vs. 31.1 ± 5.2 mm, p = .80) did not differ between the two groups. Functional block was observed at the crista terminalis in 16 patients and at the sinus venosus in 11. No functional block was observed in three patients, all of whom belonged to the rt‐AFL group. That is, functional block was observed in 100% of the t‐AFL group as opposed to 5/8 (62.5%) of the rt‐AFL (p < .05). Slow conduction zones were frequently observed at the intra‐atrial septum in the t‐AFL group and at the CTI in the rt‐AFL group.ConclusionMapping with ultrahigh‐resolution mapping showed differences between t‐AFL and rt‐AFL in conduction properties in the right atrium and around the tricuspid valve, which suggested directional mechanisms.
Unlocking the potential of cosmetic dermal delivery with ethosomes: A comprehensive review
Authors: Abu‐Huwaij Rana , Zidan Abdullah N. 
Published: July 2023

AbstractBackgroundIn a world where hair loss, acne, and skin whitening are common concerns, ethosomes emerge as a captivating breakthrough in cosmetic drug delivery.MethodThis review provides a comprehensive overview of the ethosomal system and assesses its potential as an effective nanocarrier for delivering active ingredients to the skin. The focus is on exploring their applications in various pathologies, particularly skin disorders such as acne, hair loss, and skin pigmentation.ResultsEthosomes are a novel type of vesicular nanocarrier composed of high concentrations of ethanol (20‐45%) and phospholipids. Their unique structure and composition make them an ideal choice for transporting active ingredients through the skin, offering targeted and effective treatment. The inclusion of ethanol in ethosomes' composition gives them distinctive properties, including flexibility, deformability, and stability, facilitating deep penetration into the skin and enhancing medication deposition. Moreover, ethosomes improved theoverall drug‐loading capacity, and specificity of target treatmentConclusionEthosomes represent a unique and suitable approach for delivering active cosmetic ingredients in the treatment of hair loss, acne, and skin whitening, presenting a versatile alternative to traditional dermal delivery systems. Despite the challenges associated with their complex preparation and sensitivity to temperature and humidity, the remarkable potential benefits of ethosomes cannot be ignored. Further research is crucial to unlock their full potential, understand their limitations, and refine their formulations and administration methods. Ethosomes hold the promise of transforming the way we address these cosmetic concerns, offering an exciting glimpse into the future of advanced skincare solutions.