bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
(008) VAGINAL TESTOSTERONE ABSORBANCE AFTER SEXUAL AROUSAL
Authors: Clephane K , Lorenz T
Published: June 2024

Introduction

While topical (exogenous) estrogens have been a focus of treatment for vaginal pain, recent work has shown testosterone may also revitalize weakened vaginal tissue. This research has documented that vaginal tissue responds well to exogenous testosterone treatment, supporting the hypothesis that endogenous testosterone may play a significant role in vaginal health. However, is it not known how the dynamics of vaginal arousal may contribute to activity of endogenous testosterone within the vaginal environment. Specifically, there is reason to expect that vaginal sexual arousal may activate mechanisms within the vaginal tissue that increase absorption of testosterone from the mucosal layer into the tissue beneath.

Objective

This project aims to characterize the influence of vaginal arousal on the presence of testosterone in the vaginal mucosa both pre- and post-arousal, and the within-person stability of these effects over time (3 weeks).

Methods

Analyses are drawn from an ongoing clinical trial in which participants complete 3 in-lab sessions spaced 3 weeks apart, in which they provided samples of cervicovaginal fluid before and after watching an erotic video (~7 minutes). For each fluid sample, participants insert a disposable menstrual cup, which sits loosely around the cervix, for about 10 minutes. After the post-arousal menstrual cup is removed, participants complete a survey battery that includes demographics and measures of sexual function and sexual desire.

Results

For the present analysis, data were drawn from 68 participants that had pre- and post-arousal samples for at least one study session. Preliminary tests revealed that, controlling for changes in fluid volume, testosterone in the vaginal mucosa decreased significantly between pre- and post-vaginal sexual arousal (F(1, 197.26) = 67.29, p < .0001). Additional data regarding the association between absorption of testosterone during arousal and self-reported sexual functioning will also be presented.

Conclusions

Though further work is needed to confirm testosterone is absorbed into the surrounding vaginal tissue, our findings suggest a significant movement of testosterone out of cervicovaginal fluid during sexual arousal. Likely, the increased blood flow that accompanies vaginal sexual arousal allows for greater absorption of testosterone originally present in the mucosa into the vaginal tissue. If vaginal sexual arousal allows for greater testosterone absorption, it may provide a unique window of time during which application of exogenous testosterone may be most advantageous. Further, if endogenous testosterone absorption happens during masturbation or sexual activity, this may function over the longer term as a protective factor for tissue integrity.

Disclosure

No.
(010) ERECTION FUNCTION AND BOTHER IN TRANSGENDER WOMEN TAKING GENDER AFFIRMING HORMONE THERAPY AND AFTER PRE-VAGINOPLASTY BILATERAL ORCHIECTOMY
Authors: Sandhu S , Dadashian E , Mallavarapu S , Smith S , Garcia M
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Gender-affirming (GA) hormone therapy (GAHT) and bilateral orchiectomy (GABO) significantly reduce gender dysphoria in transgender women (TW). A key source of dysphoria is penile erection. To date, no studies have described erectile function (EF) among TW taking GAHT and after GABO.

Objective

We aimed to: 1) Evaluate EF among two cohorts of TW before vaginoplasty: One taking only GAHT >6mo., and the other taking GAHT & >6 months post-GABO). 2) Determine the incidence of erections among these cohorts based on whether they do or do not use their penis for sexual activity 3) Query subjects’ interest for any treatment that could eliminate penile erections before vaginoplasty.

Methods

Pre-vaginoplasty TW on GAHT were surveyed anonymously. Participants were grouped based on GABO status. We queried EF using the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) questionnaire at three points (pre-GAHT, >6 months after starting GAHT, and >6 months post-GABO). We also queried the incidence of any erections in these three states, and, whether patients would undergo a procedure that promised to reduce or eliminate erections.

Results

31 participants participated (16 GAHT-only; 15 GAHT+GABO). Median age was 37 years (IQR 25.3 Y) and median years on GAHT was 5.5 years (IQR 7.3 Y). 21/31 (68%) reported they do not use their penis for sexual activity. TW on GAHT and GAHT+GABO showed reduced SHIM score, with lowest scores in TW who did not use their penis during sex (Figure 1a). Spontaneous erections were reduced for women who did not use their penis during sex in the GAHT+GABO group, vs. the GAHT-only group, but both groups reported high incidence of erections with arousal and during sex (b). Most TW showed a high interest in any procedure that promised to completely eliminate their erections (c).

Conclusions

Our study is the first to show that GAHT reduces SHIM scores, but the greatest reduction is in TW who do not use their penis for sexual activity. While GABO significantly reduces spontaneous erections vs. GAHT alone, neither appears to have much effect on erections with sexual arousal or sexual activity. The majority of women reported significant dislike & dysphoria from their erections, and would choose to undergo any reasonable procedure that completely eliminated, or at least reduced, their erections. Further study with larger numbers is warranted.

Disclosure

No.
(013) THE SHORT-TERM EFFECTS OF TESTOSTERONE ON QUALITY OF LIFE AND SEXUAL FUNCTION AMONG HORMONE-NAIVE TRANSMASCULINE IN THAILAND
Authors: Suwan A , Chavaengkiat S , Vichuladda V , Panyakhamlerd K
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The field of transgender medicine has become rapidly recognized and evolving within the healthcare system. Consequences of gender affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) is one of the most interesting health issues among transmasculine individuals. Improving in quality of life among transgender is one of the most expected GAHT effects. Due to differences in biopsychosocial aspects in particular areas, data retrieved from specific population are valuable and need to be evaluated.

Objective

The aim of this study is to investigate the short-term effects of GAHT with intramuscular testosterone on the quality of life and sexual functions among hormone-naïve transmasculine individuals in Thailand. Recognizing testosterone therapy as a standard intervention for enhancing both physical and mental health in transmasculine individuals, this research provides valuable insights into its specific impacts on well-being and sexual health within the context of Thailand.

Methods

This prospective study was conducted from September 2022 to May 2023 at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand. Thirty transmasculine participants who met the inclusion criteria were invited to complete two questionnaires: World Health Organization Quality of Life BREF THAI (WHO-QOL-BREF-THAI) and FSFI (female sexual function index). GAHT was given with testosterone enanthate 250 milligrams intramuscularly every four weeks. Both questionnaires were re-evaluated at 12 weeks after treatment. Comparison of WHO-QOL-BREF-THAI score and FSFI score before and after testosterone administration were analyzed using paired T-test.

Results

The baseline assessment revealed that only 50.0% of participants reported favorable quality of life, as per the WHO-QOL-BREF-THAI score. However, after 12 weeks of testosterone treatment, the participants’ quality of life significantly increased to 86.7%. The mean total score rose from 95.6 to 106.1 (P<0.01), with improvement across all domains of the WHO-QOL-BREF-THAI scores. The most significant improvement occurred in the social relationship domain (P<0.01). Among sexually active participants (56.7%), testosterone treatment demonstrated notable changes only in the desire domain of FSFI scores (P<0.01). Overall, these results underscore the positive impact of testosterone treatment on both general quality of life and specific aspects of sexual function among transmasculine individuals within the short-term timeframe of this study.

Conclusions

rmone-naïve transmasculine individuals exhibited increased scores in overall domains of quality of life and the desire domain of sexual function after 12 weeks of testosterone treatment compared to baseline. A more extensive, longer-term investigation is warranted to elucidate these aspects among Thai transmasculine individuals.

Disclosure

No.
(014) WOMEN WITH POSTORGASMIC ILLNESS SYNDROME: DATA FROM AN INTERNATIONAL PROSPECTIVE REGISTRY
Authors: Paulsen O , Banton J , Ikedionwu I , Sun J , Bronson I , Raheem O , Pearlman A , Duran M B , Serefoglu E C , Rubin R
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Postorgasmic Illness Syndrome (POIS) describes a debilitating collection of flu-like or allergy-like symptoms experienced post-orgasm. The disorder can be divided into primary or secondary subtypes, and even further into seven clusters. POIS is considered a rare, poorly understood condition that largely affects people with penises.

Objective

To assess females’ experiences with POIS, including symptomology, treatments trialed, and sexual function via the Female Sexual Function Index-6 (FSFI-6). To also compare their experiences with men who have POIS.

Methods

An IRB-approved RedCAP survey was created and administered in September of 2023. The anonymous survey was distributed to the following online platforms: Twitter, Instagram, email, Reddit to include r/POIS and r/SampleSize, and the POISCenter forum. The survey was closed on November 5th, 2023 and descriptive statistics were performed.

Results

Of 424 records, nineteen indicated they have a vulva and vagina. Authors individually and thoroughly assessed all nineteen records and eliminated duplicate responses, records that did not meet any of the established symptom criteria, and incomplete responses. After this, ten records were included in the statistical analysis. Participants identified as white/caucasian (7), Hispanic/Latina (2), and Iranian/Persian (1). One of the ten respondents has been diagnosed by a medical professional. Five participants indicated that they experience a “sensation of a flu-like state.” Three experience “extreme fatigue or exhaustion.” One experiences “feverishness or perspiration.” One experiences “mood instability and/or irritability.” Providers visited for their symptoms included primary care, endocrinologist, obstetrician/gynecologist, and mental health. Treatments trialed include allergy medications, anti-depressants, prednisolone, pelvic floor physical therapy, and pain relievers (i.e., NSAIDs). Seven participants completed the FSFI-6; three had a score of less than or equal to 19 (the cutoff for female sexual dysfunction(FSD)) and four had a score of greater than 20.

Conclusions

POIS has been viewed as a “male-only” condition. While it largely impacts men, this data suggests that women are not immune to it and when compared to men, their experiences vary. From this prospective registry, the most common symptoms experienced by women were “flu-like.” Additionally, none of the participants visited a urologist compared to 65% of men who have. While nearly 60% of the FSFI-6 respondents are not classified as having FSD, it is important to note that only one participant stated they were “very satisfied” with their sex life. More data is needed on this understudied population affected by POIS.

Disclosure

No.
Overnight to Outpatient
Authors: Tarr Joseph T. , Coomer Cynara L. , Kim Sara Y. , Ng Marilyn
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Minimizing resource use while optimizing patient outcomes has become an ever-growing component in modern healthcare, especially in the era of COVID-19. One essential component of this is deciding whether patients need hospital admission following elective procedures. The aim of this study is to investigate operative factors and patient outcomes when mastectomies with or without reconstruction are performed as ambulatory procedures versus planned inpatient admissions.

Methods

Patient charts for those undergoing mastectomy with or without reconstruction were retrospectively analyzed ranging from March 2019 until February 2021. Factors such as demographic information, operative type, operating room time, cancer stage, total stay time in the medical environment, and postoperative complications were assessed and compared between the 2 groups.

Results

A total of 89 patient charts were reviewed, 46 from before the COVID-19 pandemic and 43 from after the start of the pandemic. No differences were observed in demographic factors between the 2 groups. After surgical cases resumed a significant proportion, 79%, of mastectomies with or without reconstruction were performed in the ambulatory center, versus just 2% pre-COVID-19. Similarly, of all of these cases performed, only 19% resulted in hospital admission versus the previous rate of 100% (P < 0.00001). Together, these changes resulted in a significant reduction in length of stay of 39.77 ± 19.2 hours pre-COVID-19 versus 14.81 ± 18.4 hours afterward (P < 0.00001). Unfortunately, a higher number of patients who received surgery after the start of the pandemic elected to forego immediate reconstruction 49% versus 72% (P = 0.032). Most importantly, there were no observable differences found in 7-day readmission, reoperation, or emergency department visit between groups. There was also no difference in 30-day complication rate between groups.

Conclusions

Mastectomy with or without reconstruction can be safely performed in the ambulatory setting without additional risk of complications or negative patient factors. This divergence from traditional the protocol of inpatient overnight admission may contribute positively toward patient comfort, minimize the use of healthcare costs and resources, and allow for increased scheduling flexibility for patient and provider alike.
Signal-amplifying Biohybrid Material Circuits for CRISPR/Cas-based single-stranded RNA Detection
Authors: Mohsenin Hasti , Schmachtenberg Rosanne , Kemmer Svenja , Wagner Hanna J. , Johnston Midori , Madlener Sibylle , Dincer Can , Timmer Jens , Weber Wilfried
Published: June 2024

The functional integration of biological switches with synthetic building blocks enables the design of modular, stimulus-responsive biohybrid materials. By connecting the individual modules via diffusible signals, information-processing circuits can be designed. Such systems are, however, mostly limited to respond to either small molecules, proteins, or optical input thus limiting the sensing and application scope of the material circuits. Here, we design a highly modular biohybrid material based on CRISPR-Cas13a to translate arbitrary single-stranded RNAs into a biomolecular material response. We exemplify this system by the development of a cascade of communicating materials that can detect the tumor biomarker microRNA miR19b in patient samples or sequences specific for COVID-19. Specificity of the system is further demonstrated by discriminating between input miRNA sequences with single-nucleotide differences. To quantitatively understand information processing in the materials cascade, we developed a mathematical model. The model was used to guide systems design for enhancing signal amplification functionality of the overall materials system. The newly designed modular materials can be used to interface desired RNA input with stimulus-responsive and information-processing materials for building point-of-care suitable sensors as well as multi-input diagnostic systems with integrated data processing and interpretation.
Strategic responses to uncertainty shocks and consequences: a study of sustainability-oriented exporters in an emerging country
Authors: Nguyen Hoang , Nguyen Mai Thi Tuyet , Binh Do , Nguyen Lam Duc Xuan , Phung Hung Manh
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges to businesses worldwide, compelling them to swiftly adapt their strategies to the evolving landscape. This study explores the relationships between uncertainty shocks (i.e. COVID-19), strategic responses, and performance outcomes, with a specific focus on general and green strategic responses.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing from a sample of sustainability-oriented exporters in different industries, we examine the impact of these responses on market, financial, and operation performance by gathering data from 212 managers in Vietnam – an emerging country, and then applying PLS-SEM for analysis.

Findings

Our findings reveal that sustainability-oriented exporters have exhibited adaptability by adopting general and green strategic responses in the face of the pandemic’s disruptions. Green strategic responses positively influence market, financial, and operational performance, underscoring the strategic significance of integrating sustainability considerations. However, while general strategic responses show alignment with uncertainty risks, they just impact operational performance, but do not significantly influence market and financial outcomes.

Research limitations/implications

Future research should consider diversifying the sample to encompass a wider range of firm types and geographical locations to enhance the external validity of the results. In addition, the study does not extensively explore the mechanisms that mediate or moderate the relationships between uncertainty shocks, strategic responses, and performance outcomes.

Practical implications

The study’s implications guide practitioners toward agile responses that balance adaptability, sustainability, and performance. This study provides timely insights for sustainability-oriented firms, managers, policymakers, and researchers aiming to navigate disruptions effectively and sustainably.

Originality/value

These findings contribute to the fields of strategic management and sustainability by emphasizing the complexities of strategic responses during uncertainty shocks, and disruptions and the pivotal role of sustainability-driven strategies in enhancing performance.
Distributed ledger technology integration in Nigerian construction industry: key drivers
Authors: Aliu John , Oke Ayodeji Emmanuel , Ehiosun Lydia Uyi
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the drivers influencing the integration of distributed ledger technologies (DLTs) in the Nigerian construction industry to provide a comprehensive analysis of the factors that shape the adoption and utilization of this transformative technology within the sector.

Design/methodology/approach

This objective was achieved through a quantitative research approach, utilizing a structured questionnaire to systematically gather data from various stakeholders in the Nigerian construction sector. Data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics, alongside inferential statistical techniques like the Kruskal-Wallis H-test, the Shapiro-Wilk test and exploratory factor analysis.

Findings

The most highly ranked drivers for DLT within the construction industry are security and fraud resistance, traceability and transparency, government support, compliance and reporting and trust building. Further analysis unveiled five distinct factors of application areas, namely: technological and operational drivers, economic and financial drivers, regulatory and government drivers, collaborative and stakeholder drivers and environmental and sustainability drivers.

Practical implications

The practical implications emphasize the need for construction industry stakeholders to focus on security, transparency and trust-building when considering DLT adoption. This study also offers valuable insights for investors and technology providers seeking opportunities in the Nigerian construction sector.

Originality/value

This study sheds light on the factors most critical for DLT adoption in the Nigerian construction sector. Unlike previous research, this study pinpoints security and fraud resistance, along with traceability and transparency, as the most influential drivers. This highlights the Nigerian construction industry’s particular vulnerability to fraud and its emphasis on clear audit trails.
How critical is ethical leadership during COVID? Its role in enhancing creativity in nursing
Authors: Xie Lei , Li Guangping , Gu Jianguang
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The ethical requirement for nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic reached the peak. Healthcare professionals were asked to provide creative services to patients while making ethical decisions. This study aims to understand how ethical leadership and ethical climate interact with help seeking behavior to influence nurses’ creativity.

Design/methodology/approach

In this longitudinal study, the authors employed 193 nurses from a large hospital in China. Eligible nurses completed two surveys (one month apart) during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Findings

This study found that help seeking during problem-solving mediates the relationship between ethical leadership and creativity while ethical climate moderates the relationship between ethical leadership and help seeking in nurses.

Originality/value

Scholars have rarely studied the relationship between ethical leadership and creativity in the healthcare setting. More importantly, this study unveiled the compounded effect of ethical leadership and ethical climate on creativity via nurses’ help seeking behavior in China.
Corporate social responsibility and firm value: exploring the moderating effects of information technology-enabled knowledge capabilities
Authors: Xu Junmin , Leung Alvin Chung Man , Yue Wei Thoo , Su Qin
Published: June 2024

Purpose

A substantial amount of research has examined the firm value impact of corporate social responsibility (CSR). Nevertheless, the findings have been inconsistent, prompting researchers to identify contingencies under which the impact varies. This study examines how information technology (IT)-enabled knowledge capabilities moderate the relationship between CSR and firm value.

Design/methodology/approach

We conducted the ordinary least squares (OLS) regression analysis on a sample of S&P 500 companies spanning from 2010 to 2017. We employed additional methods to test the robustness of the results, including the generalized method of moments (GMM) estimator and the two-stage least squares (2SLS) method.

Findings

The results show that IT-enabled absorptive capability (IT-AC) and IT-enabled social integration capability (IT-SIC) positively moderate the CSR–value relationship. Further, their moderating effects vary in distinct ways when environmental dynamism changes, hinting at the distinct underlying rationales behind the moderating roles of IT-AC and IT-SIC.

Research limitations/implications

This study improves the understanding of the business value of CSR and IT. It has limitations in generalizability due to the use of secondary data.

Practical implications

This study provides practical guidelines to managers about how to strategically leverage IT resources for the creation of CSR value.

Social implications

Encouraging businesses to enhance their CSR efforts and uphold sustainability extends beyond our immediate benefit and impacts future generations as well. However, due to an imbalance between costs and returns, companies often refrain from being wholeheartedly devoted to CSR. Our insights on guiding companies to derive more value from CSR can inspire their greater investment in CSR. Meanwhile, companies can obtain additional returns from deployed IT.

Originality/value

This study extends the IT business value literature by revealing how IT generates firm value in the context of CSR. It also adds critical insights into the mixed findings in previous research regarding the CSR–firm value link. The study’s findings offer useful guidance on the strategic deployment and utilization of IT resources to facilitate the creation of CSR value.
Islamic financial accounting standards in Pakistan: a comparison with AAOIFI
Authors: Zafar Muhammad Bilal
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to compare the Islamic financial accounting standards (IFAS) prevailing in Pakistan declared by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) with accounting standards of Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions (AAOIFI).

Design/methodology/approach

Both standards related to Islamic financial accounting have been thoroughly reviewed, compared and discussed to find out the differences and similarities, along with the depth needed to meet the needs of Islamic finance. 

Findings

AAOIFI accounting standards provide a comprehensive view of complex transactions, whereas SECP standards have limitations. The proposed recommendations aim to bridge the gap by conducting periodic reviews and revisions of IFAS prevailing in Pakistan to keep up with the dynamic nature of the Islamic finance industry.

Practical implications

The regulators should establish institutional arrangements for adapting AAOIFI accounting standards, enabling efficient and effective upgrading of existing accounting standards for Islamic financial institutions and alignment with international best practices.

Originality/value

There is a dearth of studies related to Islamic financial accounting in the context of Pakistan; this is one that contributes to this area.
Breaking down disciplinary silos? In search of interdisciplinary integration in postgraduate agroecosystems research
Authors: Schlindwein Sandro Luis
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Interdisciplinary inquiry has been increasingly adopted to address issues of growing complexity in the biophysical and social sciences, as for example in agricultural research and rural development. The purpose of this article is to trace the origins of a Postgraduate Programme in Agroecosystems (PGA) in Brazil in order to discuss how its interdisciplinary practices have been enacted and epistemologically and institutionally constrained in just over 25 years of teaching and research activities.

Design/methodology/approach

Conceptualized as a systemic inquiry, the study reported here builds upon participant observation, empirical evidence and literature-based analysis.

Findings

Some of the academic features of the PGA introduced to facilitate interdisciplinary integration are presented and discussed, as well as their main challenges and obstacles, notably those emerging from “disciplinary imperialism” hindering individuals to work towards interdisciplinary inquiry and collaborative learning.

Originality/value

Raising epistemological awareness and building systems literacy are critical aspects to be addressed to foster the embodiment of interdisciplinary inquiry practices. This might also lead to new understandings and to new and productive forms of joint teaching and research practices, fostering interdisciplinary integration.
Echoes of silence: an embossed poetic inquiry
Authors: Ambrosy Josh , Zonca Benjamin
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Silences in qualitative social science research present a unique and sometimes ambiguous challenge for researchers. When working with transcription artefacts, considering not only what has been said but also what has been silenced, omitted, overlooked or brushed over allows new ways of examining a phenomenon. This paper explores a new methodological approach to exploring these silences.

Design/methodology/approach

This article explores “embossed” poetry as a methodological process to consider what has not been said. Via an empirical study that examined the experience of six teachers of a year nine programme in Victoria, Australia, we explore how embossed poems within a larger research project allowed the interrogating of silences. Through a polyvocal performance of text and poetry, this paper argues that embossed poetry offers significant methodological possibilities through which previously silenced ideas and analytical processes can become visible within poetic research praxis.

Findings

The findings of this paper are that by using embossed concrete poems, researchers can explore new territories within qualitative work. By putting down the keyboard and picking up a hand-embossing tool, new space for thought emerges and other parts of an assemblage can be explored.

Originality/value

This paper presents a unique methodological contribution to poetic inquiry. Furthermore, it explores the path trodden to develop this new approach through a reflexive-diffractive polyvocal text.
Fueling a greener tomorrow: The impact of energy diversification on green growth
Authors: Pal Shreya , Villanthenkodath Muhammed Ashiq , Ansari Mohd Arshad
Published: June 2024

Motivated by the necessity of attaining carbon neutrality and striking a balance between clean and conventional energy sources, the emphasis is on how urgent it is to combat climate change and make the switch to sustainable energy systems. In this context, the current study aims to examine the effects of energy diversification on green growth, considering such complementary factors as green technology, human capital, remittance inflows, foreign direct investment inflows, trade openness, and gross fixed capital formation. An empirical analysis is conducted by framing a green growth function in the panel data framework which is analyzed using the dynamic standard correlated model for the BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) for the period between 1995 and 2020. The results show that (i) energy diversification exerts a dampening effect on the trajectory of green growth, (ii) the process of green growth was affected due to green technology and foreign direct investment inflows, (iii) underscores the pivotal role of human capital and gross fixed capital formation in bolstering the green growth trajectory, (iv) despite their potential relevance, remittance inflows and trade openness exhibit negligible impact within the framework of the green growth function, thus underscoring their limited contribution to the overarching sustainable development. The practical policy recommendations and invaluable insights provided by these empirical findings are instrumental in fostering green growth among the BRICS countries. Moreover, it contributes to the discourse on sustainable development by providing a solid foothold for informing the development of relevant policies in similar situations around the world.
Marginal zone lymphomas: a consensus practice statement from the Australasian Lymphoma Alliance
Authors: Lasica Masa , Anderson Mary A. , Boussioutas Alex , Gregory Gareth P. , Hamad Nada , Manos Kate , McKelvie Penny , Ng Michael , Campbell Belinda , Palfreyman Emma , Salvaris Ross , Weinkove Robert , Wight Joel , Opat Stephen , Tam Constantine
Published: June 2024

Marginal zone lymphomas (MZLs) are a rare, indolent group of non‐Hodgkin lymphomas with different diagnostic, genetic and clinical features and therapeutic implications. The most common is extranodal MZL of mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue, followed by splenic MZL and nodal MZL. Patients with MZL generally have good outcomes with long survival rates but frequently have a relapsing/remitting course requiring several lines of therapy. The heterogeneous presentation and relapsing course present the clinician with several diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. This position statement presents evidence‐based recommendations in the setting of Australia and New Zealand.
Looking for the philosopher's stone: Emerging approaches to target the hallmarks of aging in the skin
Authors: Lemaitre Jean‐Marc
Published: June 2024

Senescence and epigenetic alterations are two important hallmarks of cellular aging. During aging, cells subjected to stress undergo many cycles of damage and repair before finally entering either apoptosis or senescence, a permanent state of cell cycle arrest. The first biomarkers of senescence to be identified were increased ß‐galactosidase activity and induction of p16INK4a. Another feature of senescent cells is the senescence‐associated secretory phenotype (SASP), a complex secretome containing more than 80 pro‐inflammatory factors including metalloproteinases, growth factors, chemokines and cytokines. The secretome is regulated through a dynamic process involving a self‐amplifying autocrine feedback loop and activation of the immune system. Senescent cells play positive and negative roles depending on the composition of their SASP and may participate in various processes including wound healing and tumour suppression, as well as cell regeneration, embryogenesis, tumorigenesis, inflammation and finally aging. The SASP is also a biomarker of age, biological aging and age‐related diseases. Recent advances in anti‐age research have shown that senescence can be now prevented or delayed by clearing the senescent cells or mitigating the effects of SASP factors, which can be achieved by a healthy lifestyle (exercise and diet), and senolytics and senomorphics, respectively. An alternative is tissue rejuvenation, which can be achieved by stimulating aged stem cells and reprogramming deprogrammed aged cells. These non‐clinical findings will open up new avenues of clinical research into the development of treatments capable of preventing or treating age‐related pathologies in humans.
Are perfectionistic strivings beneficial or detrimental to well‐being and achievement? Tests of procrastination and emotion regulation as moderators
Authors: Lischetzke Tanja , Grommisch Gloria , Prestele Elisabeth , Altstötter‐Gleich Christine
Published: June 2024

Objective

Researchers have called for an approach that examines the conditions under which perfectionistic strivings (PS) may be beneficial or detrimental to psychological functioning. We adopted a self‐regulation perspective and tested whether individual differences in self‐regulation (procrastination, emotion regulation) moderate PS's relationships with achievement and well‐being in an academic/work‐related achievement context.

Method

A sample of 183 preservice teachers participated in a study that combined “traditional” longitudinal assessment (six performance situations over a 9‐month period) with repeated ambulatory assessment (measuring well‐being, procrastination, and emotion regulation during a total of 910 preparation phases that preceded performance situations).

Results

Mean levels of achievement, well‐being, and emotion regulation were found to be stable over time, whereas procrastination decreased on average across preparation phases. Results from latent variable interaction models indicated that individual differences in intraindividual change in procrastination over time moderated the relationship between PS and well‐being (but not achievement) in the expected direction: The less individuals decreased in procrastination over time, the more negative the relationship between PS and well‐being was. Contrary to expectations, we found no evidence of a moderating effect of emotion regulation.

Conclusion

The study contributes to a nuanced perspective on the adaptiveness of PS.
Lessons from the void: What Boltzmann brains teach
Authors: Saad Bradford
Published: June 2024

Some physical theories predict that almost all brains in the universe are Boltzmann brains, that is, short‐lived disembodied brains that are accidentally assembled as a result of thermodynamic or quantum fluctuations. Physicists and philosophers of physics widely regard this proliferation as unacceptable, and so take its prediction as a basis for rejecting these theories. But the putatively unacceptable consequences of this prediction follow only given certain philosophical assumptions. This paper develops a strategy for shielding physical theorizing from the threat of Boltzmann brains. The strategy appeals to a form of phenomenal externalism about the physical basis of consciousness. Given that form of phenomenal externalism, the proliferation of Boltzmann brains turns out to be benign. While the strategy faces a psychophysical fine‐tuning problem, it both alleviates cosmological fine‐tuning concerns that attend physics‐based solutions to Boltzmann brain problems and pays explanatory dividends in connection with time's arrow.
Bearing the burden of peace: Intergroup attribution bias and public support for peace provisions
Authors: Godefroidt Amélie , Muradova Lala
Published: June 2024

What drives public support for peace provisions? Based on intergroup attribution theory, we argue that public support for peace provisions depends on “who bears the burden of peace,” with people wanting to protect their ingroup while holding the outgroup accountable. To examine this claim, we conducted a series of question‐wording experiments with more than 1650 Azerbaijani participants shortly after a deadly resurgence of the Nagorno‐Karabakh war. Our initial findings confirm that support for war crime punishments and monetary reparations decreases when the ingroup stands trial or must pay. Conversely, support increases when these same burdens fall on the outgroup. A follow‐up study shows that these patterns persist for at least 6 months but also reveals a more nuanced perspective. Public support for peace provisions does not automatically decrease when the ingroup bears the cost or increase when the outgroup bears it; rather, it depends on the group‐based implications of the provision under consideration. Taken together, our results underscore the importance of crafting and communicating peace provisions in a tailored manner and the potential of emphasizing burden sharing as an effective strategy for addressing intergroup hostilities and fostering sustainable peace.
Using the institutional grammar to understand collective resource management in a heterogenous cooperative facing external shocks
Authors: Bunders Damion Jonathan , Moor Tine De
Published: June 2024

Worker cooperatives in the gig economy can involve large and heterogeneous memberships, which makes them vulnerable to member opportunism depleting collective resources. External shocks may present another challenge for collective resource management. This raises the question of how heterogeneous cooperatives design rules to mitigate opportunistic behavior and whether these rules evolve in the face of external shocks. We study the case of Smart Belgium between 2017 and 2022, thereby covering the COVID‐19 pandemic and new cooperative legislation as external shocks. Building on the institutional grammar methodology, we analyze 412 rules of Smart. The findings indicate that external shocks with sudden resource scarcity do not necessarily motivate rule changes (COVID‐19) while external shocks without an effect on collective resources can motivate rule changes (national policy change). The study also shows what kind of rules heterogeneous cooperatives may design to mitigate opportunism.
Advanced in Every Dimension
Authors: Kurfess Thomas R. , Jablokow Kathryn W.
Published: June 2024

Digital technologies known collectively as Industry 4.0 are transforming manufacturing and are increasing the effectiveness of our workforce, as well as encouraging domestic and local production. This, in turn, expands the local supply chain, providing greater economic prosperity for the nation and local regions. To get the full benefit of these transforming changes, our workforce must be fully trained to leverage all of these advanced technologies.
Two new species of the genus Eremobelba Berlese, 1908 (Acari, Oribatida, Eremobelbidae) from Zhejiang, China

Authors: Liang Cheng , Chen Yannan , Chen Jun
Published: June 2024

Two new species of oribatid mites of the genus Eremobelba (Oribatida, Eremobelbidae) collected from Gutianshan National Nature Reserve, Zhejiang, China were described: Eremobelba yinae sp. nov. and Eremobelba rotunda sp. nov.. A key to the known species of Eremobelba occur in China was provided.
New species of Pergalumna (Acari, Oribatida, Galumnidae) from Venezuela

Authors: Ermilov Sergey G.
Published: June 2024

Two new species of the subgenus Pergalumna (Pergalumna)—P. (P.) araguaensis sp. nov. and P. (P.) bispinata sp. nov.—are described, based on adults collected from leaf litter in the Aragua State, Northern Venezuela. Pergalumna (P.) araguaensis differs from the related species P. (P.) espejillosensis by the morphology of the bothridial seta and rostrum, the location of the notogastral porose area Aa and solenidion on the leg tibia IV, the absence of the dorsosejugal porose area. Pergalumna (P.) bispinata differs from the related species P. (P.) montana by the body size, the morphology of head of the bothridial seta, the number of the notogastral porose areas, the presence of the median pore, the absence of the postanal porose area and striate ornamentation on the pteromorph.
Supplemental Material: Resolving the “megacryst paradox”: Feldspar orientation relationships record crystal mobility in granites
Authors: Gordon Charlotte , Wallis David
Published: June 2024

Sampling details; cathodoluminescence map; EBSD data collection and processing details; polished slab image analysis; and phase-equilibria modeling details.  
Using office hour appointment data to illustrate a decline in student-faculty interaction during and after COVID-19
Authors: Fahey Briana , Boddy Stephen
Published: June 2024

Applying readily available data, we quantify a persistent, negative impact of the shift to emergency remote teaching (ERT) on a measure of student-faculty interaction (SFI) among first-year medical students. A gender-based component to these effects is also discussed. Before, during, and after COVID, physiology emerged as the most engaged-with discipline as measured by office hour (OH) appointment volume.
Successful Retrieval of Rota Burr After Driveshaft Fracture
Authors: Kobayashi Tsuyoshi , Horikoshi Takeo , Yoshizaki Toru , Sato Akira
Published: June 2024

Rotational atherectomy is an effective procedure for heavily calcified lesions and those that cannot be crossed using conventional percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) devices. Here, we report a rare case of intracoronary burr entrapment in the coronary artery due to burr disconnection from the driveshaft. A 67‐year‐old man undergoing hemodialysis for nephrosclerosis presented with exertional chest discomfort. Coronary angiography revealed stenotic lesions in the right coronary artery, and PCI was performed using a Rotawire Floppy. During the procedure, the disconnected burr was successfully removed without surgery using the child‐in‐mother technique with a guide extension catheter. Notably, the patient remained hemodynamically stable throughout the procedure and his recovery was uncomplicated. He was discharged on the second postprocedural day. At the 6‐month follow‐up, the patient remained asymptomatic with no evidence of myocardial ischemia. This report informs clinicians of the possibility of burr disconnection and the non‐surgical intervention used for its removal.
Effects of Ellagic Acid on Glucose and Lipid Metabolism: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Wang Xuelian , Zhou Xiaotao , Zhang Xinxia
Published: June 2024

Background. Abnormal glucose and lipid metabolism (GALM) serve as both a cause and an inducer for the development of the disease. Improvement and treatment of GALM are an important stage to prevent the occurrence and development of the disease. However, current clinical treatment for GALM is limited. Ellagic acid (EA), a common polyphenol present in foods, has been shown to improve abnormalities in GALM observed in patients suffering from metabolic diseases. Objective. This study used a meta‐analysis method to systematically assess the effects of EA on GALM. Method. As of November 8, 2023, a comprehensive search was conducted across 5 databases, namely, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in which EA served as the primary intervention for diseases related to GALM. The risk of bias within the included studies was assessed according to the Cochrane Handbook. All statistical analyzes were performed using RevMan 5.4 software. Results. In this study, a total of 482 articles were retrieved, resulting in the inclusion of 10 RCTs in the meta‐analysis. The results showed that EA could reduce fasting blood glucose (FBG) (p = 0.008), increase insulin secretion (p = 0.01), improve insulin resistance index (HOMA‐IR) (p = 0.003), decrease triglyceride (TG) (p = 0.004), and reduce cholesterol (Chol) (p = 0.04) and low‐density lipoprotein (LDL‐c) (p = 0.0004). EA had no significant effect on waist circumference (WC), body weight (BW), body mass index (BMI), 2 hours after prandial blood glucose (2 h‐PG), total cholesterol (TC), and high‐density lipoprotein (HDL‐c). Conclusions. The effect of improvement in glucose and lipids of EA was closely related to the dose and the intervention time. EA can improve GALM caused by diseases. To corroborate the findings of this study and improve the reliability of the results, EA is imperative to refine the research methodology and increase the sample size in future investigations.
Quaternionic Curves Which Lie on the Special Planes in 4−Dimensional Euclidean Space E4
Authors: Kişi İlim , Büyükkütük Sezgin , Öztürk Günay
Published: June 2024

In this study, some curvature conditions of quaternionic curves are obtained by writing the position vectors of quaternionic curves as linear combinations of new vector fields, named as Di (1 ≤ i ≤ 4), that are produced from Frenet frame fields of the quaternionic curves. Also, the relations between DiDj‐quaternionic curves and the rectifying quaternionic curves and the osculating quaternionic curves are presented. Moreover, the results obtained are illustrated with an example in which the new vector fields are examined.
Supplementary Figure 6 from Role of Gut Microbiome in Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Response in Urothelial Carcinoma: A Multi-institutional Prospective Cohort Evaluation
Authors: Bukavina Laura , Ginwala Rashida , Eltoukhi Mohamed , Sindhani Mohit , Prunty Megan , Geynisman Daniel M. , Ghatalia Pooja , Valentine Henkel , Calaway Adam , Correa Andres F. , Brown Jason R. , Mishra Kirtishri , Plimack Elizabeth R. , Kutikov Alexander , Ghannoum Mahmoud , Elshaer Mohammed , Retuerto Mauricio , Ponsky Lee , Uzzo Robert G. , Abbosh Philip H.
Published: June 2024

Supplementary Figure 6: Gut Microbiome Dynamics During Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy

A: Relative abundance of major bacterial genera before, during, and after chemotherapy. Each color represents a different genus, with patient-specific changes highlighted to illustrate shifts in microbial composition over the course of treatment.

B: Violin plots representing alpha diversity indices (ACE, Chao1, Observed, Pielou, Shannon, and Simpson) at three stages of chemotherapy: before, during, and after treatment.

C: Cladogram derived from LEfSe analysis illustrating the most significantly altered taxa at each treatment stage. Colored nodes indicate taxa with statistically significant differences in abundance, with arrows highlighting key changes before, during, and after chemotherapy.

D: Each segment shows the percentage composition of each genus by treatment stage.

E: Venn diagram summarizing the overlap and unique bacterial taxa found at each stage of chemotherapy, quantifying shared and exclusive genera before, during, and after treatment.

F: Principal Coordinates Analysis (PCoA) plot based on weighted UniFrac distances, showing the clustering of microbial communities at different treatment stages.

G: Bar graph illustrating the proportional changes in specific bacterial genera over the course of chemotherapy, quantified and compared across three phases.