bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Telmisartan impedes JEV infection predominately via AT1/PPARγ axis
Authors: Datey Ankita , Chatterjee Sanchari , Ghosh Soumyajit , Kumar P Sanjai , De Saikat , Ghorai Udvas , Subudhi Bharat Bhusan , Chattopadhyay Soma
Published: October 2024

Japanese encephalitis, caused by Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is a vector born disease for which no specific therapeutics are available yet. Binding of angiotensin II (Ang II) to angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptor induces release of inflammatory cytokines associated with viral encephalitis. Accordingly, Ang II receptor blockers (ARBs) have been proposed to manage encephalitis. Since Telmisartan (TM, antagonist of AT1 and agonist of PPARγ) has relatively better brain access than other ARBs, this investigation aims to evaluate its anti-JEV efficacyin vitroandin vivo.TM reduced JEV titer, RNA and protein (NS3) significantly in the BHK-21 cells with IC50of 24.68μM and CC50of >350 μM (Selectivity Index >14.18) indicating its potential of repurposing against JEV. The anti-JEV efficacy of TM was further observed in macrophages (RAW264.7) and neuronal (SH-SY5Y) cells. Interestingly, the viral load was reduced significantly in pre, co and post-treatment conditions of TM, however most efficiently (80%) in post treatment. In presence of GW (PPARγ antagonist) and AG (AT1 agonist), viral infection was increased remarkably while AT1 was upregulated and PPARγ was downregulated. Whereas, TM treatment reversed the levels of AT1 and PPARγ during infection. Further, reduction of inflammatory markers like p-IRF-3, COX-2 and p-NF-κB was observed after TM treatment in RAW264.7 cells suggesting its immunomodulation through the AT1/PPARγ axis. Finally, the anti-JEV potential of TM was validated in mice model through the reduction of disease score, viral protein and histological changes. Thus, the preclinical efficacy of TM suggests its suitability for repurposing against JEV.
First Principles Numerical Demonstration of Emergent Decoherent Histories
Authors: Strasberg Philipp , Reinhard Teresa E. , Schindler Joseph
Published: October 2024

Within the histories formalism the decoherence functional is a formal tool to investigate the emergence of classicality in isolated quantum systems, yet an explicit evaluation of it from first principles has not been reported. We provide such an evaluation for up to five-time histories based on exact numerical diagonalization of the Schrödinger equation. We find a robust emergence of decoherence for slow and coarse observables of a generic random matrix model and extract a finite-size scaling law by varying the Hilbert space dimension over 4 orders of magnitude. Specifically, we conjecture and observe an exponential suppression of coherent effects as a function of the particle number of the system. This suggests a solution to the preferred basis problem of the many-worlds interpretation (or the set selection problem of the histories formalism) within a minimal theoretical framework without relying on environmentally induced decoherence, quantum Darwinism, Markov approximations, low-entropy initial states, or ensemble averages.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Consumer engagement with shopping platforms: focused on crowdsourcing and crowdsending
Authors: Lee Ha Kyung , Kim Woo Bin , Choo Ho Jung
Published: October 2024

Purpose

In the context of growing efforts by online businesses to enhance consumer connections, understanding consumer engagement behaviors is imperative. This study explores consumer engagement within online shopping platforms, specifically introducing and examining the roles of crowdsourcing and crowdsending.

Design/methodology/approach

The study developed and validated measurement scales for crowdsourcing and crowdsending engagement across transactional, multi-sided and inspirational platforms.

Findings

Identifying five sub-dimensions within crowdsourcing and crowdsending, the results unveiled nuances in consumer–platform interactions, emphasizing the value of co-creation. Crowdsourcing entails transaction-oriented engagements such as knowledge gathering, utilitarian and hedonic browsing, interaction and co-shopping. The findings revealed that crowdsourcing significantly influenced platform commitment, surpassing the impact of crowdsending on transactional platforms. Conversely, crowdsending involves knowledge sharing, feedback, participation, advocacy and reciprocity, fostering active engagement and shared value within the platform ecosystem. Notably, the results showed that crowdsending strengthened commitment to inspirational platforms more than to conventional shopping platforms.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the theoretical understanding of a range of consumer engagement experiences in online shopping environments and presents practical applications, offering valuable insights for commerce businesses aiming to optimize their digital strategies.
An automatic hybrid mesh generation method for combustion fluid dynamics simulations
Authors: Liu Tiantian , Leng Juelin , Xu Kailong , Xu Quan , Yang Yang , Zheng Peng
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Automatic mesh generation is still a challenge problem for combustion fluid dynamics simulations because of the high-quality requirement and complexity of geometries. This paper aims to find an efficient automatic analysis model creation and mesh generation method to save the time for pre-processing in numerical simulations.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the previous work, we explore effective model processing and mesh generation methods from practical engineering applications. Considering the automation and high quality requirement, we construct an automatic mesh generation procedure for combustion fluid dynamics problems.

Findings

The numerical results show that the procedure we proposed in this paper can automatically generate high quality mesh for combustion fluid dynamics simulations. The strategy of fluid model construction is time-saving and with high-precision. The mesh generation method in our procedure is automatic and efficient.

Practical implications

The procedure proposed in this paper is applicable to the practical engineering application model, such as aircraft simulation, aeroengine simulation and so on. The procedure has been integrated into an numerical simulation software.

Originality/value

The method proposed in this paper has very practical application value. It can be used in the practical application and saves a lot of manual processing time for numerical stimulation specialists.
Measuring the global scientific literature on big data analytics in the LIS: the blending approach of altmetrics and bibliometrics
Authors: Wani Javaid Ahmad , Rehman Ikhlaq Ur , Ganaie Shabir Ahmad , Maqbool Aasia
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to measure scientific literature on the emerging research area of “big data” in the field of “library and information science” (LIS).

Design/methodology/approach

This study used the “bibliometric method” for data curation. Web of Science and altmetric.com were used. Data analysis and visualisation were done using three widely used powerful data analytics software, R-bibliometrix, VOSviewer and Statistical Package for Social Sciences.

Findings

This study revealed the most preferred venues for publication. Furthermore, this study highlighted an association between the Mendeley readers of publications and citations. Furthermore, it was evident that the overall altimetric attention score (AAS) does not influence the citation score of publications. Other fascinating findings were moderate collaboration patterns overall. Furthermore, the study highlighted that big data (BD) research output and scientific influence in the LIS sector are continually increasing.

Practical implications

Findings related to BD analytics in LIS techniques can serve as helpful information for researchers, practitioners and policymakers.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the current knowledge accumulation by its unique manner of blending the two approaches, bibliometrics and altmetrics.
A bibliometric study toward quantitative research assessment of security of machine learning
Authors: Paracha Anum , Arshad Junaid
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Advances in machine learning (ML) have made significant contributions to the development of intelligent and autonomous systems leading to concerns about resilience of such systems against cyberattacks. This paper aims to report findings from a quantitative analysis of literature within ML security to assess current research trends in ML security.

Design/methodology/approach

The study focuses on statistical analysis of literature published between 2000 and 2023, providing quantitative research contributions targeting authors, countries and interdisciplinary studies of organizations. This paper reports existing surveys and a comparison of publications of attacks on ML and its in-demand security. Furthermore, an in-depth study of keywords, citations and collaboration is presented to facilitate deeper analysis of this literature.

Findings

Trends identified between 2021 and 2022 highlight an increase in focus on adversarial ML – 40\% more publications compared to 2020–2022 with more than 90\% publications in journals. This paper has also identified trends with respect to citations, keywords analysis, annual publications, co-author citations and geographical collaboration highlighting China and the USA as the countries with highest publications count and Biggio B. as the researcher with collaborative strength of 143 co-authors which highlight significant pollination of ideas and knowledge. Keyword analysis highlighted deep learning and computer vision as the most common domains for adversarial attacks due to the potential to perturb images whilst being challenging to identify issues in deep learning because of complex architecture.

Originality/value

The study presented in this paper identifies research trends, author contributions and open research challenges that can facilitate further research in this domain.
Product innovation capability and distinctive value positioning drivers for marketing performance: a service-dominant logic perspective
Authors: Zuhroh Siti , Rini Gilang Puspita
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to develop a conceptual model showing how the concept of distinctive value positioning (DVP) could be a strategic solution for improving marketing performance in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Indonesia.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was conducted among owners and managers of creative SMEs using a structured questionnaire to test the proposed model. Additionally, the sample size included 200 respondents who were analyzed using structural equation modeling with the aid of AMOS 23.

Findings

This research used serial mediation to investigate the mediating effect of two concepts in the strategic path to enhance DVP. Channel partner power was incorporated to mediate the relationship between product innovation capability and marketing performance.

Research limitations/implications

Service-dominant logic perspective was enriched with diversity through various analyses. This research further contributed to the field of knowledge by developing a new variable known as DVP. However, it did not extensively explore the various cultural elements in Indonesia that could affect the unique values attached to creative industry products.

Originality/value

DVP was reported as a new concept and showed a significant effect on marketing performance in SMEs.
Learning goal orientation, empowering leadership and participative decisionmaking as predictors of expatriates’ postpandemic job performance
Authors: AlMazrouei Hanan , Zacca Robert
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the relationship between learning goal orientation, empowering leadership, participative decision-making and organizational citizen behavior and its effect on post-pandemic job performance within the expatriate UAE community.

Design/methodology/approach

The study proposes a theoretical model based on responses from survey data collected from 314 expatriates working in private sector organizations in Dubai, UAE.

Findings

The findings indicate that both learning goal orientation and participative decision-making have a significantly positive direct relationship with organizational citizenship. Furthermore, organizational citizenship is demonstrated to have a significant positive impact on job performance. However, the study reveals that there is no significant relationship between empowering leadership and organizational citizenship.

Originality/value

This study adds to extant expatriate management theory relating to international business by examining the effects that organizational citizenship behavior, learning goal orientation, empowering leadership and participative decision-making have on expatriates’ job performance.
Does state affiliation create information advantage to financial analysts
Authors: Liu Qigui , Liu Bo
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Recent studies have documented the significant influence of investment bank relationships on the forecast accuracy of affiliated analysts. However, the literature primarily focuses on investment bank-firm relationships, such as whether the investment bank has underwriter or lending relationships with firms. Little attention has been paid to the impact of investment bank-state relationships. To fill this gap in the literature, this paper investigates whether investment bank-state relationships create an information advantage for affiliated analysts.

Design/methodology/approach

We empirically test the information advantage of state-affiliated analysts using a large sample of analyst forecasts from China spanning the period 2008 to 2020. Specifically, we investigate whether state-affiliated analysts issue more accurate and timely forecasts around macro events. To address endogeneity concerns, we examine instances where analysts move between state-affiliated and non-affiliated banks, as well as changes in the controlling structure of investment banks.

Findings

We find that state-affiliated analysts demonstrate greater accuracy in forecasts driven by macro events, indicating their information advantage. This effect is more pronounced under conditions of heightened economic policy uncertainty and closer ties between investment banks and the state. After transitioning to a non-state-affiliated investment bank, analysts no longer maintain the ability to make superior macro-event-driven forecasts. Conversely, when the investment bank's affiliation changes from non-state to state, financial analysts gain an information advantage following the establishment of new state affiliation. Additionally, state-affiliated analysts tend to issue more assertive forecasts in response to macro events, which are subsequently echoed by their peers. Furthermore, this information advantage is recognized by investors, enhancing stock price informativeness.

Originality/value

Firstly, we contribute to the literature on the economic implications of state ownership in financial intermediaries. Secondly, we enrich the existing literature on financial analysts by acknowledging the pivotal role of investment bank relationships in shaping analysts' behaviors. Lastly, unlike existing literature that treats forecasts driven by macroeconomic events and those influenced by firm-specific events as a homogeneous category, this study contributes to the literature by innovatively categorizing analyst forecasts into two distinct types.
The relationship between audit committees, external auditors, and internal control systems: a literature review and a research agenda
Authors: Wehrhahn Christoph , Velte Patrick
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to focus on the relationship between audit committees, external auditors and internal control systems (ICS) and strives to point out mutual influences between the instances to provide an integrated perspective for firms’ multilateral monitoring mechanisms. Furthermore, this study emphasizes the incorporation of sustainability and fraud considerations into the traditional roles of audit committees and auditors.

Design/methodology/approach

This structured literature review is based on 71 empirical-quantitative studies published in high-quality journals between 2005 and 2022. Considering the classification of ICS into ICS quality and internal audit function, the studies are analyzed with regard to audit committees’ and external auditors’ characteristics, divided into incentives and competencies, as well as their mutual relationships.

Findings

This study highlights a dynamic trilateral network of relationships between monitoring authorities and primarily shows that audit committees equipped with adequate competencies generate a substitutive effect for external auditors by reducing their efforts, whereas ICS quality serves as a possible mediator in this network of relationships. The establishment of an integrative three-party coalition of competent and adequately incentivized monitoring parties is essential to guarantee sufficient and appropriate ICS and overall corporate governance quality.

Practical implications

The findings should prompt legislators and firms to ensure a deeper collaboration between audit committees, internal auditors and external auditors to generate synergy effects and economies of scale within the integrative monitoring process. Legislators should develop stricter requirements for competencies of audit committees and auditors. These should include a holistic triad of sustainability, fraud and digital expertise as well as mandatory forensic procedures performed by all monitoring bodies.

Originality/value

The authors contribute to prior research by highlighting the importance of an integrative three-party coalition of monitoring authorities to ensure corporate governance quality and to generate synergy effects within a dynamic multilateral monitoring process. Furthermore, the authors offer cutting-edge implications by stressing the need for consideration of sustainability and fraud aspects in the traditional work and profiles of audit committees and auditors.
Factors determining the adoption of mobile banking in Ethiopian Islamic banks: extension of technology acceptance model (TAM)
Authors: Legass Habtamu Alebachew , Durmuş Muhammed Emin
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to assess the factors determining the adoption of Islamic mobile banking (M-banking) in Ethiopia.

Design/methodology/approach

The study area covers the city of Dire Dawa, Harar and Jigjiga, where the Muslim community dominates. A sample of 378 out of 400 respondents who are currently customers of different Islamic banks provide their opinion on questions developed in a Five-point Likert scale indicator. The collected data were analyzed by the least square method and with the help of SPSS version 25.

Findings

The result of the study revealed that the perceived ease of use (PEOU), perceived usefulness (PU), perceived advantage and trust have a positive significant impact on the adoption of Islamic M-banking. Perceived risk was found to have an insignificant impact on the adoption of Islamic mobile banking in Ethiopia.

Research limitations/implications

Future researchers in the realm of Islamic mobile banking can expand their investigations in several key areas. Longitudinal and cross-cultural studies could be undertaken to explore how those factors affect over time and in different cultural settings.

Practical implications

As a policy implication, the study recommends that banks should develop transparent communication and implement robust security measures, emphasize practical benefits, invest in user-friendly interfaces and highlight the relative advantage they provide over others.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research is considered as the first attempt to examine factors that determine Ethiopian Islamic banking customers to adopt Islamic M-banking services, which was not considered in previous studies.
Using AI personas in ChatGPT for online chat reference training
Authors: Yates William , VanDeusen Trilby , Schuman Sierra , Curry Keanna , Maki Josh , Ogborn Matt , Malecki Allison Leaming , Martin Joyce Ann , Edens Wes , Bonanni Mimmo , Prosser Eric
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the use of artificial intelligence (AI) personas for training library staff in an online chat reference environment, enhancing trainees’ abilities to respond effectively to real-life patron requests.

Design/methodology/approach

The project used ChatGPT-4 to construct custom generative pretrained transformers (GPTs) that acted as library patrons and presented the types of questions and reference requests that library staff would likely receive. These AI personas were improved iteratively and collaboratively. Novice chat reference users were surveyed on their experiences with the final AI personas.

Findings

The use of AI personas for training library staff showed promising results. AI personas could simulate interactions with actual patrons, and trainees’ confidence levels increased due to their use. However, limitations still exist, as AI personas were prone to providing overly detailed answers or required prompting to stay on task.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is among the first to apply AI personas in the context of improving training for online chat reference. The experience contrasts with other efforts to use generative AI to provide answers directly to patrons without human intervention or involvement.
Global digital overload: how Snapchat communication cycles influence workplace efficiency
Authors: Bilderback Stephanie
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the growing integration of social media, specifically Snapchat, into workplace environments and its impact on communication behaviors, especially among Generation Z and Millennials. The focus is on analyzing how Snapchat’s communication cycles, such as notifications, Snap streaks and best friend rankings, affect workplace efficiency. This study also investigates how cultural variations around connectivity and work-life balance amplify or mitigate these effects in global settings.

Design/methodology/approach

This research uses social comparison theory and self-determination theory to examine the psychological and social impacts of Snapchat’s features on workplace productivity. Drawing on qualitative and quantitative literature, the paper explores how different cultural contexts influence employees’ interaction with Snapchat during work hours. Theoretical frameworks are applied to understand the cognitive and social disruptions caused by social media, while practical strategies for human resource management are explored.

Findings

Snapchat’s design fosters continuous user engagement, often leading to fragmented attention and reduced productivity, particularly in work environments. Cultural norms surrounding social media usage and work-life boundaries either intensify or alleviate the disruptive effects of Snapchat. For example, the pressure to maintain social ties amplifies workplace distractions in collectivist cultures. In contrast, individualistic cultures may emphasize productivity over social connection, allowing for more effectively managing these distractions.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the growing body of literature on social media’s impact on workplace dynamics by offering a culturally nuanced approach to understanding digital distractions. By focusing on Snapchat, a platform with unique features that encourage habitual interaction, the study provides novel insights into how global human resource strategies can be tailored to different cultural settings. The findings suggest practical solutions for managing digital overload and optimizing employee performance in increasingly interconnected work environments.
Industrial agglomeration, environmental regulation, and high‐quality development in rural China: From the perspective of spatial effect
Authors: Ruifan Xu , Dequan Hao , Yun Ding , Wenxin Liu
Published: October 2024

Explore the interaction and spatial spillover effects between industrial agglomeration, environmental regulation, and high‐quality development of agriculture and rural areas, formulate appropriate industrial and environmental policies for different regions, guide the orderly agglomeration of agricultural sectors, and adjust the intensity of environmental regulation, which will help achieve high‐quality development. This manuscript firstly deconstructs the internal logic among industrial agglomeration, environmental regulation, and high‐quality development. Secondly, the Super‐SBM model is used to calculate the high‐quality development efficiency in rural China from 2000 to 2020. Finally, the Spatial Dubin Model (SDM) is used to analyze the spatial spillover effects and regional differences of industrial agglomeration, environmental regulation, and their integration impact on high‐quality development in rural China. The results show that: ① From 2000 to 2020, the high‐quality development efficiency shows a downward trend in fluctuation, and high‐quality development needs to be improved. ② There are significant regional differences in the effects of industrial agglomeration and environmental regulation on the high‐quality development efficiency. Industrial specialization agglomeration can effectively improve the high‐quality development efficiency, while industrial diversification agglomeration has uncertain effects. ③ The integration of environmental regulation and diversification agglomeration inhibits the high‐quality development efficiency, while the integration with specialization agglomeration has a stronger effect on improving high‐quality development efficiency. It is necessary to further enhance the effect of diversification agglomeration.
Perinatal and neonatal outcomes in gestational diabetes: The importance of the number of abnormal values in an oral glucose tolerance test
Authors: Eteläinen Sanna , Keikkala Elina , Lingaiah Shilpa , Viljakainen Matti , Männistö Tuija , Pouta Anneli , Kaaja Risto , Eriksson Johan G. , Laivuori Hannele , Gissler Mika , Kajantie Eero , Vääräsmäki Marja
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is defined by one or more abnormal values in an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). The significance/importance of the number of abnormal values in relation to adverse perinatal and neonatal outcomes is unclear. We assessed the association of these outcomes with the number of abnormal glucose values in a 2‐h 75 g OGTT in a large register‐based cohort.

Material and Methods

This sub‐study of the Finnish Gestational Diabetes Study was based on the Finnish Medical Birth Register 2009 supplemented with OGTT laboratory data of 4869 pregnant women from six Finnish hospitals. The diagnostic cut‐offs in OGTT according to the Finnish guidelines for plasma samples were ≥5.3 mmol/L (fasting), ≥10.0 mmol/L 1 h or ≥8.6 mmol/L 2 h after the glucose load. As per the guidelines, women with one or several abnormal OGTT values received diet and lifestyle counseling in the primary care, self‐monitored their glucose values and received pharmacological therapy as needed. Women with GDM were categorized according to the number of abnormal glucose values. The primary outcomes, composites of adverse perinatal (pre‐eclampsia, preterm delivery, macrosomia or primary cesarean section) and neonatal outcomes (birth trauma, neonatal hypoglycemia, hyperbilirubinemia or stillbirth/perinatal mortality), were analyzed by logistic regression adjusted for maternal age, pre‐pregnancy body mass index, parity, socio‐economic status and smoking.

Results

Of all the women, 877 (18.0%) had one, 278 (5.7%) two and 79 (1.6%) three abnormal OGTT values, while 3635 (74.7%) women were normoglycemic. Women with at least two abnormal OGTT values had higher proportions of adverse perinatal composite (35.0% vs. 27.5%, adjusted odds ratio 1.36; 95% confidence interval 1.03–1.81) and neonatal composite outcomes (31.1% vs. 18.9%, adjusted odds ratio 1.88; 95% confidence interval 1.40–2.52) compared to women with one abnormal value. The risks of delivery induction and neonatal hypoglycemia were increased regardless of the number of abnormal values when compared with normoglycemic women.

Conclusions

The risk of adverse perinatal and neonatal outcomes is significantly higher in women with two or more abnormal OGTT values than in those with one abnormal value.
Realizing high photothermal conversion efficiency in traditional Chinese purple (BaCuSi2O6) pigment
Authors: Yang Maohao , Ge Wanyin , Zhang Qian , Xie Xin , Luo Zili , Shang Shifan , Diwu Huating
Published: October 2024

Chinese purple (CP), an ancient traditional pigment, represents the rich cultural and scientific heritage of an ancient civilization. To achieve high‐purity CP pigment in a more economical and efficient manner, we synthesized CP using a low‐temperature hydrothermal route. Interestingly, we observed the emergence of an emission peak at 894 nm in CP under irradiation at λex = 650 nm. Additionally, it was noted that the CP powder exhibited a significant photothermal effect when exposed to near‐infrared light irradiation. A photothermal conversion efficiency of 19% was achieved in the CP pigment. This study not only sheds light on the enigmatic nature of this ancient pigment but also highlights its potential as a critical photothermal conversion material.
Overcoming human exceptionalism: The role of ethical nature‐culture relations in the developmental contexts of indigenous children
Authors: Elliott Emma , Fish Jillian
Published: October 2024

Indigenous populations, including American Indians, Alaska Natives, First Nations, and other first peoples worldwide, have been largely overlooked in child development research. This commentary examines how Indigenous relationality intersects with developmental science, advocating for a shift from human exceptionalism to an interconnected relationality among people, land, and more‐than‐human beings. Drawing from diverse Indigenous knowledge and practices, The Six Pillars to Advance Indigenous Relationality among Children provides frameworks for integrating Indigenous worldviews emphasizing interconnected responsibilities and sustainability. Embracing Indigenous relationality—grounded in respect and reciprocity—dismantles inequitable systems, enhances socioecological well‐being, and supports healthy Indigenous child development, fostering responsible relationships with the land and ensuring a sustainable future for generations.
Natural Language Generation for Visualizations: State of the Art, Challenges and Future Directions
Authors: Hoque E. , Islam M. Saidul
Published: October 2024

Natural language and visualization are two complementary modalities of human communication that play a crucial role in conveying information effectively. While visualizations help people discover trends, patterns and anomalies in data, natural language descriptions help explain these insights. Thus, combining text with visualizations is a prevalent technique for effectively delivering the core message of the data. Given the rise of natural language generation (NLG), there is a growing interest in automatically creating natural language descriptions for visualizations, which can be used as chart captions, answering questions about charts or telling data‐driven stories. In this survey, we systematically review the state of the art on NLG for visualizations and introduce a taxonomy of the problem. The NLG tasks fall within the domain of natural language interfaces (NLIs) for visualization, an area that has garnered significant attention from both the research community and industry. To narrow down the scope of the survey, we primarily concentrate on the research works that focus on text generation for visualizations. To characterize the NLG problem and the design space of proposed solutions, we pose five Wh‐questions, why and how NLG tasks are performed for visualizations, what the task inputs and outputs are, as well as where and when the generated texts are integrated with visualizations. We categorize the solutions used in the surveyed papers based on these ‘five Wh‐questions’. Finally, we discuss the key challenges and potential avenues for future research in this domain.
Understanding the support dynamics for LGBTI+ youth in Spain during and after the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Platero Lucas , Gallardo‐Nieto Elena , Blanco‐Fuente Irene , López‐Sáez Miguel Ángel
Published: October 2024

This qualitative study explores the experiences of LGBTI+ youth in Spain during the COVID‐19 pandemic, focusing on family, social, educational and healthcare support mechanisms. The findings, based on five focus groups, highlight the pivotal role of family support during the pandemic, increased isolation and a reliance on online connections, the challenge of transitioning to online school platforms and insufficient understanding amongst healthcare professionals. The study examines adult and institutional support structures in relation to the complexities of LGBTI+ youth experiences beyond heteronormative and cisgender paradigms. It advocates applying a child‐centric approach to policies and services tailored to LGBTI+ youth needs.
Early Right Heart Remodeling in Patients With Mitral Valve Prolapse
Authors: Donia Dario , Stankowski Kamil , Testerini Federica , Ruffo Martina , Cambini Lorenzo , Di Maio Silvana , Mantovani Riccardo , Pivato Carlo A. , Dellino Carlo M. , Stefanini Giulio G. , Bragato Renato Maria , Condorelli Gianluigi , Figliozzi Stefano
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) has been associated with left heart remodeling. This study explored cardiac remodeling in patients with MVP without significant regurgitation, focusing on the right heart.

Methods

This single‐center study enrolled consecutive patients referred to trans‐thoracic‐echocardiography (TTE) with MVP, excluding those with significant regurgitation or known cardiovascular or pulmonary diseases. A group of healthy controls was included.

Results

Forty‐nine patients with MVP and 54 controls were finally selected (mean age of 62, 52–71; 52% males), and echocardiographic parameters were compared among groups. Twenty‐nine (41%) patients with MVP showed tricuspid valve prolapse (TVP). Patients with MVP, irrespective of TVP, showed greater tricuspid annulus (systolic annulus: 31±6 vs. 32±5 vs. 27±3 mm for MVP+/TVP−, MVP+/TVP+, and controls, respectively; all p < 0.01) and greater minimum right atrial volume indexed (13, 12–15 mL/m2 vs. 15, 12–20 mL/m2 vs. 11, 10–14 mL/m2; all p < 0.05). Right ventricular dimensions and systolic indexes did not differ among groups, except TAPSE, which was significantly greater in MVP+/TVP+ patients compared to controls (25±4 vs. 22±3 mm, p = 0.004). A significant correlation (ρ = 0.43; p < 0.001) and an independent association at multivariate analysis (ß = 0.28; 95% CI 0.09–0.47; p = 0.004) were observed between end‐systolic tricuspid diameter and TAPSE.

Conclusion

In patients with MVP with less‐than‐moderate mitral or tricuspid regurgitation, dilation of the right atrium and tricuspid annulus was found. The latter finding was associated with increased values of TAPSE, which should then be used with caution, while other indexes may be preferred when assessing the systolic function of these patients.
The Role of Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Distinguishing the Athlete's Heart From Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy–A Brief Literature Review
Authors: Kolenda Zloić Sanda , Hrabak‐Paar Maja
Published: October 2024

All structural and functional alterations the heart experiences due to intense sports training are collectively called the “athlete's heart” (AH). One of the main diagnostic dilemmas of today's sports cardiology is the so‐called “gray zone”—the structural and functional overlap between the physiological adaptation of the AH and the pathological process of cardiomyopathy. The importance of accurate differentiation between these two entities cannot be highlighted enough—it is estimated that half of the cases of sudden cardiac death in young athletes aged 19–29 are caused by cardiomyopathies, primarily hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). In the last few years, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has positioned itself as the gold standard for diagnosing structural heart disease, emphasizing the role of the cardiac imaging expert. This brief literature review provides the cardiac MRI findings and techniques that aid in distinguishing the AH from the most common cardiomyopathy—HCM. We will discuss the contributions, as well as current challenges and limitations of each technique, hoping to assist imaging experts and clinicians in solving one of the biggest dilemmas of sports cardiology.
Effectiveness of Chewing Gum After Water Rinsing in Removing Remnants of Sticky Cookies From Posterior Teeth—A Prospective Interventional Study
Authors: Ashkenazi Malka , Belfer Marina , Voeykova Olga , Samoylova Maryana , Khalaily Firas
Published: October 2024

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of chewing sugarless gum (SG) after water‐rinsing in removing retained Oreo chocolate cookies (CC) from occlusal surfaces of teeth with and without fissure‐sealant (FS).

Methods

A prospective study was performed on healthy children receiving prophylaxis at the paediatric‐dentistry department. Immediately afterward, they chewed two CC. The occlusal surfaces of their posterior teeth were photographed 3 times: after 10 min, after 1 min of water‐rinsing and after 4 min of chewing SG. An independent dentist screened all photos for the presence (partial or complete) or the absence of retained CC.

Results

Participants included 28 children 7–14‐year‐old, with 100 primary and 214 permanent molars, of which, 150 teeth had FS. After chewing two CC, 290 (92.4%) teeth had retained CC. Water‐swishing removed all, partial or none of the CC in 23%, 72.4% and 4.6% of the teeth, respectively. The effectiveness of chewing SG in completely removing retained CC was significantly higher than water‐rinsing (p < 0.001), OR = 43.83, Cramer's V value = 0.871, suggesting a very strong correlation.

The presence of FS raised the probability of completely removing retained CC after SG or water‐rinsing (p < 0.001, OR = 107.7 and 25.9), with Cramer's V = 0.66 and 0.57, respectively, means a very strong association, as compared to teeth without (For both p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Chewing gum for 4 min was significantly more effective than water‐rinsing for 1 min in removing retained CC. Moreover, FS considerably decreased the probability of retained CC on occlusal surfaces and increased the effectiveness of SG in removing it.
Phenotypes and clinical laboratory data for polycystic ovary syndrome cases: A nationwide survey in Japan
Authors: Noguchi Hiroki , Iwasa Takeshi , Iwase Akira , Kanasaki Haruhiko , Kimura Fuminori , Kugu Koji , Saito Kazuki , Baba Tsuyoshi , Hara Tetsuaki , Matsuzaki Toshiya
Published: October 2024

Aim

Describe the current phenotypes and clinical laboratory data regarding polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in Japan, taking into account ethnic differences and obesity status.

Methods

Data for 986 PCOS cases and 965 control cases were collected using a nationwide survey in Japan. Obese/overweight (body mass index [BMI] ≥25 kg/m2) and non‐obese/overweight (BMI <25 kg/m2) cases were compared.

Results

Japanese PCOS cases predominantly involved non‐obese/overweight patients, accounting for 75% of all cases. Among non‐obese/overweight PCOS cases, the incidence of both amenorrhea and clinical/biochemical hyperandrogenism was significantly lower than in obese/overweight PCOS cases, whereas the rate of elevated serum luteinizing hormone (LH) level was significantly higher. Even though the incidence of hirsutism in Japan is only 13.5%, the detection rate for hyperandrogenism increased by as much as 30.4% when hirsutism was added to the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology (JSOG) criteria for the diagnosis of hyperandrogenism in addition to elevated serum total testosterone level. When evaluated based on timing of blood sampling, the LH level and LH/follicle‐stimulating hormone ratio determined at the initial consultation involving a chief complaint of irregular menstrual cycle (after confirming the absence of follicles measuring ≥1 cm in diameter) were significantly higher than on days 2–3 or 4–6 of the menstrual cycle.

Conclusions

Ethnic differences, including obesity status, affected the phenotype and clinical laboratory data of Japanese PCOS patients, such as the incidence rates of clinical/biochemical hyperandrogenism and the rate of elevated basal LH level. Adding hirsutism to the JSOG 2024 criteria would enhance the accuracy of PCOS diagnosis and enhance consistency with the Rotterdam 2003 criteria. Measuring basal LH level is useful for assessing the endocrinologic characteristics of Japanese PCOS cases, as well as lean Asian PCOS cases, but the timing of blood sampling can affect the result.
The effect of listening to the voice recording of relatives on chest pain, anxiety and depression in patients hospitalized in the coronary intensive care unit: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Uğurlu Yasemin Kalkan , Alemdar Dilek Küçük
Published: October 2024

Background

After acute myocardial infarction, the prevalence of anxiety and depression is quite high in patients because of severe chest pain, distance from relatives, unfamiliar environment and orientation problems.

Aim

To assess the effect of listening to the voice recordings of relatives of patients with acute myocardial infarction who were treated in the coronary intensive care unit (ICU) on chest pain, anxiety and depression parameters of the patients.

Methods

In the study, which was conducted as a randomized controlled trial, voice recordings of the family members of the patients were created and played to the patients through a music pillow. The study was carried out with 60 patients, 30 experimental and 30 control groups. Three tests were applied to the patients 15 min before, and 15 and 30 min after the application. The data of the study were collected using the Patient Introduction Form, Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale, Visual Analogue Scale and Patient Follow‐up Form.

Results

It was found that there was a significant decrease in the anxiety level of the patients in the intervention group after listening to the audio recording (p < .001, 95% CI: −3.796; −0.070). However, there was no significant difference between the pain and depression scores of the control and intervention groups (p > .05).

Conclusions

In the ICUs of patients with acute myocardial infarction, it may be recommended to play audio recordings of their relatives to reduce the severity of anxiety.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

In the intensive care setting, the use of voice recordings of relatives can be used as an effective, non‐pharmacological intervention to reduce anxiety in patients with acute myocardial infarction. This approach may potentially improve overall recovery by reducing patient anxiety in the intensive care setting.
Linking seedling wood anatomical trade‐offs with drought and seedling growth and survival in tropical dry forests
Authors: González‐Melo Andrés , Salgado‐Negret Beatriz , Norden Natalia , González‐M Roy , Benavides Juan Pablo , Cely Juan Manuel , Abad Ferrer Julio , Idárraga Álvaro , Moreno Esteban , Pizano Camila , Puentes‐Marín Juliana , Pulido Nancy , Rivera Katherine , Rojas‐Bautista Felipe , Solorzano Juan Felipe , Umaña María Natalia
Published: October 2024

Wood anatomy plays a key role in plants' ability to persist under drought and should therefore predict demography. Plants balance their resource allocation among wood cell types responsible for different functions. However, it remains unclear how these anatomical trade‐offs vary with water availability, and the extent to which they influence demographic rates.

We investigated how wood anatomical trade‐offs were related to drought and demographic rates, for seedling communities in four tropical dry forests differing in their aridity indexes (AIs). We measured wood density, as well as vessel, fiber and parenchyma traits of 65 species, and we monitored growth and survival for a 1‐yr period.

Two axes defined wood anatomical structure: a fiber‐parenchyma axis and a vessel‐wood density axis. Seedlings in drier sites had larger fiber but lower parenchyma fractions, while in less dry forests, seedlings had the opposite allocation pattern. The fiber–parenchyma trade‐off was unrelated to growth but was positively related to survival, and this later relationship was mediated by the AI.

These findings expand our knowledge about the wood anatomical trade‐offs that mediate responses to drought conditions and influence demographic rates, in the seedling layer. This information is needed to anticipate future responses of forests to changing drought conditions.
Virtual reality–based music attention training for acquired brain injury: A randomized crossover study
Authors: Jeong Eunju , Ham Yeajin , Lee Su Jeong , Shin Joon‐Ho
Published: October 2024

This single‐blind randomized crossover study aimed to explore the effectiveness of virtual reality–based music attention training (VR‐MAT) on cognitive function and examine its potential as a cognitive assessment tool in people with acquired brain injury (ABI). Overall, 24 participants with cognitive impairment secondary to a first‐ever ABI underwent VR‐MAT and conventional cognitive training (CCT) 3 months after onset. This was performed in two 4‐week phases, over 8 weeks. During VR‐MAT, participants engaged in attention training through a four‐level virtual drumming program designed to enhance various attentional aspects. In contrast, during CCT, participants underwent structured conventional training, including card sorting and computerized training. Neuropsychological evaluations were performed preintervention, during the fourth and eighth weeks, and post‐intervention using tests to evaluate attention and executive function, along with global neuropsychological assessments. In the VR‐MAT group, significant differences were observed between pre‐ and post‐intervention in the trail making test‐black and white version B (p = 0.009) and version B–A (p = 0.018) and clinical dementia rating‐sum of boxes (p = 0.035). In the CCT group, significant differences were observed in spatial working memory (p = 0.005) and the mini‐mental state examination scores (p = 0.003). VR‐MAT is an effective cognitive intervention that is particularly beneficial for improving attention in people with ABI.
Developmental reaction norms vary among families of lizards in response to multivariate nest environments
Authors: Norris M. Christopher , Hall Joshua M. , Warner Daniel A.
Published: October 2024

Developmental plasticity is the capacity of a single genotype to express multiple phenotypes in response to different early‐life environments. Such responses are defined by reaction norms, which may vary among individuals or populations. Variation in developmental reaction norms allows natural selection to operate on plasticity and is rarely examined in vertebrates. We quantified variation in embryonic developmental plasticity within and between populations using the brown anole lizard. We captured lizards from two islands in the Matanzas River (Florida, USA) and incubated their eggs under one of two multivariate treatments that mimicked the temperature, moisture and substrates of nest sites in either a shaded or open habitat. We measured hatchling morphology, performance, and physiology to quantify variation in family‐level reaction norms. We observed evidence of family‐level variation in reaction norms for morphology but not for performance or physiology, indicating an opportunity for natural selection to shape plasticity in hatchling body size. Overall, the results indicate that multiple abiotic conditions in natural nests combine to increase or reduce phenotypic variation, and that family‐level variation in reaction norms provides a potential for natural selection to shape plasticity.