bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Satisfaction unveiled: decoding the antecedents and consequences of halal tourism – a metaanalytical approach
Authors: Gautam Nikshit , Verma Mohit , Ray Bhumika
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to identify the dimensions of satisfaction in the halal tourism literature by analyzing the identified antecedents and outcomes. The study aims to synthesize the current empirical findings in halal tourism. Additionally, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of the factors that lead to halal traveller satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a meta-analysis approach, this paper synthesizes the fragmented and conflicting findings of 56 quantitative studies focusing on satisfaction and its antecedents and consequences in the halal tourism context. Data from 145 relationships representing an aggregate sample size of 21,173 were used. Additionally, this study extends the analysis by incorporating contemporary factors such as the impact of COVID-19, sample size and gender as moderators.

Findings

The findings indicate that both physical characteristics and psychological aspects are positively related to satisfaction. Further, this study reported that endorsement and revisit intention are the significant consequences of satisfaction. Lastly, this study identifies the significant moderating effect of the COVID-19 pandemic, sample size and gender on the relationship between satisfaction and its antecedents/consequences.

Research limitations/implications

Global halal tourism industry caters to Muslim and non-Muslim tourists across the globe; this article identifies the contributing factors of satisfaction in the halal tourism context. Policymakers can adapt according to their needs and preferences.

Originality/value

This study provides cumulative evidence to the literature regarding the relationship between satisfaction and its antecedents/consequences in halal tourism. This is the first meta-analysis study on the mentioned topic, making significant theoretical, managerial and methodological contributions to halal tourism research.
A personalized machine learning–based system to evaluate students’ skillset and analyze the gap between academia and industry for engineering students
Authors: Thavasi S. , Revathi T.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

With so many placement opportunities around the students in their final or prefinal year, they start to feel the strain of the season. The students feel the need to be aware of their position and how to increase their chances of being hired. Hence, a system to guide their career is one of the needs of the day.

Design/methodology/approach

The job role prediction system utilizes machine learning techniques such as Naïve Bayes, K-Nearest Neighbor, Support Vector machines (SVM) and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) to suggest a student’s job role based on their academic performance and course outcomes (CO), out of which ANN performs better. The system uses the Mepco Schlenk Engineering College curriculum, placement and students’ Assessment data sets, in which the CO and syllabus are used to determine the skills that the student has gained from their courses. The necessary skills for a job position are then extracted from the job advertisements. The system compares the student’s skills with the required skills for the job role based on the placement prediction result.

Findings

The system predicts placement possibilities with an accuracy of 93.33 and 98% precision. Also, the skill analysis for students gives the students information about their skill-set strengths and weaknesses.

Research limitations/implications

For skill-set analysis, only the direct assessment of the students is considered. Indirect assessment shall also be considered for future scope.

Practical implications

The model is adaptable and flexible (customizable) to any type of academic institute or universities.

Social implications

The research will be very much useful for the students community to bridge the gap between the academic and industrial needs.

Originality/value

Several works are done for career guidance for the students. However, these career guidance methodologies are designed only using the curriculum and students’ basic personal information. The proposed system will consider the students’ academic performance through direct assessment, along with their curriculum and basic personal information.
Phenoxazine-based fluorescence chemosensor for selective detection of cyanide
Authors: Al-Ghamdi Huda A.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

A highly selective cyanide phenoxazine-based fluorescence chemosensor POH was created to detect cyanide (CN) ions.

Design/methodology/approach

A malonitrile was added to a phenoxazine fluorophore to make this widely available chemosensor. By fluorescence spectroscopy, the sensor POH showed turn-off fluorescence emission for CN with 2:1 binding stoichiometry in CH3CN/H2O (90:10 v/v) medium.

Findings

The detection limits for CN were 9.8 × 10−9 M, which were much lower than WHO standards. NMR and FT-IR investigations backed up the suggested sensor POH mechanism.

Originality/value

The detection CN method should be applicable in a number of situations, where the CN anion for fresh water and drinking water has to be quickly and accurately analyzed.

Graphical abstract
Fabrication of 3D-printed GNP/TiO2/epoxy composites: an investigation on mechanical and photocatalytic properties
Authors: Güler Saadet , Yavaş Ahmet , Özler Berk , Kilinç Ahmet Çagri
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is popular for many applications including the production of photocatalysts. This paper aims to focus on developing of 3D-printed photocatalyst-nano composite lattice structure. Digital light processing (DLP) 3D printing of photocatalyst composites was performed using photosensitive resin mixed with 0.5% Wt. of TiO2 powder and varying amounts (0.025% Wt. to 0.2% Wt.) of graphene nanoplatelet powder. The photocatalytic efficiency of DLP 3D-printed photocatalyst TiO2 composite was investigated, and the effects of nano graphite powder incorporation on the photocatalytic activity, thermal and mechanical properties were investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

Methods involve 3D computer-aided design modeling, printing parameters and comprehensive characterization techniques such as structural equation modeling, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) and mechanical testing.

Findings

Results highlight successful dispersion and characteristics of TiO2 and graphene nanoplatelet (GNP) powders, intricate designs of 3D-printed lattice structures, and the influence of GNPs on thermal behavior and mechanical properties.

Originality/value

The study suggests applicability in wastewater treatment and environmental remediation, showcasing the adaptability of 3 D printing in designing effective photocatalysts. Future research should focus on practical applications and the long-term durability of these 3D-printed composites.

Graphical abstract
First French and Indonesian university medical cooperation for promoting emergency medicine
Authors: Pujo Jean M , Lapostolle Frederic , Fitriani Dewi , Tazarourte Karim , Koswiranagara Renauld , Fremery Alexis , Mutricy Rémi , Signaté Boubacar , Burin Antoine , Resiere Dabor , Mansyur Muchtaruddin , Isbayuputra Marsen , Mulyawan Wawan , Megarbane Bruno , Kallel Hatem ,   the French‐Indonesian Association of Emergency Medicine
Published: April 2024

Indonesia and French Guiana share many geographic and medical concerns regarding access to care. The organisational needs in emergency management, particularly in the prehospital phase, are similar. Whereas emergency medicine (EM) is an academic and entire speciality in France, it is still under construction in Indonesia. In the framework of the French and Indonesian academic cooperation, the Medical school in Jakarta University and the French Guiana University in Cayenne signed a Memorandum of Understanding encompassing education programmes, joint research work and students' and health professionals' exchanges in EM. This partnership represented the first medical cooperation programme between the two countries. The first student class was launched in August 2022 and involved 50 Indonesian doctors who graduated in August 2023. The implementation and success of this Franco‐Indonesian cooperation were supported by political and academic partners from the two sides. Given the first student class's success, we aim to continue this programme, in line with Indonesia and World Health Organization's plan to establish a multi‐country training hub for health emergency operational readiness and Emergency Medical Teams.
Hosting and the normative presence of Christmas in older people’s lives
Authors: Mansvelt Juliana
Published: April 2024

Despite the economic and cultural significance of Christmas in many nations, there has been relatively little geographical research on how it shapes people’s socialities, spatialities, and subjectivities. In this paper, practice theory was used to reflect on the materials, meanings, and competencies associated with older people who host the celebration at home, and thematic analysis of qualitative interviews with 20 individuals aged 65+ explored participants’ experiences of doing so. Findings reveal that homes’ material forms affect older people’s ability to host, while the ‘stuff’ of Christmas such as decorations, special foods, or gifts shape those homes as festive and welcoming places. Food sourcing and preparation were critical competencies for female participants, and shifting capacities to be a host influenced participants’ sense of autonomy and identity. Regardless of the extent to which participants celebrated Christmas, the meanings of hosting centred on social connection, contribution, and shoring up family. Choosing not to host or being unable to contribute in expected ways at Christmas could signify failure, exclusion, or incapability as an older person, parent, or citizen. Examining these issues in the case study, based in Aotearoa/New Zealand, reveals the existence and effects of the social expectations, norms, and obligations that typify Christmas. More broadly, the study highlights the need for geographers to attend to the ways in which celebrations shape and are shaped by diverse practices, places, and peoples and are assembled, reproduced, and resisted.
Antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of aerobic bacteria isolated from canine urinary samples in South East Queensland, 2013 to 2018
Authors: Mack C , Gibson JS , Meler E , Woldeyohannes S , Yuen N , Herndon A
Published: April 2024

Urinary tract infections are a common diagnosis in dogs presenting to veterinary practice. Veterinarians often treat suspected infections empirically, either in the absence of culture and susceptibility testing results or whilst waiting for them. This study aimed to identify the bacteria most frequently isolated from canine urinary samples and their antimicrobial susceptibility patterns in South East Queensland (SEQ) to help guide responsible empirical antimicrobial prescription by the veterinary community in this geographical location. Cumulative antibiograms were generated from the results of 1284 culture‐positive urinary samples in SEQ, obtained from a commercial veterinary laboratory over a 5‐year period. Escherichia coli was the most commonly isolated bacterial species (43%), followed by Staphylococcus spp. (23%), Proteus spp. (21%) and Enterococcus spp. (10%). Of the six most common isolates, 97% had susceptibility to at least one low‐importance antimicrobial. Susceptibility to the low‐importance and first‐line antimicrobial recommendation, amoxicillin, was 81% for E. coli and 24% for Staphylococcus spp. Susceptibility of both E. coli and Staphylococcus spp. to medium‐importance and commonly recommended empirical antimicrobials, trimethoprim sulphonamides and amoxicillin–clavulanic acid was ≥85% and >92% for high‐importance antimicrobials enrofloxacin and ceftiofur. Of the E. coli and Staphylococcus spp. isolates, 8.8% and 4%, respectively, were considered multidrug resistant. There was no increase in resistance to antimicrobials detected over the study period. Susceptibilities suggest low‐ and medium‐importance antimicrobials remain acceptable first‐line empirical treatments. However, this should be continually assessed and updated using local surveillance data.
Peri‐operative outcomes following radical prostatectomy in the setting of advanced prostate cancer
Authors: Simhal Rishabh K. , Wang Kerith R. , Shah Yash B. , Lallas Costas D. , Shah Mihir S. , Chandrasekar Thenappan
Published: April 2024

Objective

To compare the peri‐operative outcomes of radical prostatectomy (RP) for locally advanced, node‐positive, and metastatic prostate cancer (PCa), as determined through pathological staging, using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Project.

Methods

We identified RP procedures performed between 2019 and 2021. Patients were stratified by pathological staging to compare the effect of locally advanced disease (T3‐4), node positivity (N+) and metastasis (M+) vs localised PCa (T1‐2 N0 M0). Baseline demographics and 30‐day outcomes, including operating time, length of hospital stay (LOS), 30‐day mortality, readmissions, reoperations, major complications, minor complications and surgery‐specific complications, were compared between groups.

Results

Pathological staging data were available for 9276 RPs. Baseline demographics were comparable. There was a slightly higher rate of minor complications in the locally advanced cohort, but no significant difference in major complications, 30‐day mortality, readmissions, or rectal injuries. Node positivity was associated with longer operating time, LOS, and some slightly increased rates of 30‐day complications. RP in patients with metastatic disease appeared to be similarly safe to RP in patients with M0 disease, although it was associated with a longer LOS and slightly increased rates of certain complications.

Conclusions

For patients with pathologically determined locally advanced, node‐positive, and metastatic PCa, RP appears to be safe, and is not associated with significantly higher rates of 30‐day mortality or major complications compared to RP for localised PCa. This study adds to the growing body of literature investigating the role of RP for advanced PCa; further studies are needed to better characterise the risks and benefits of surgery in such patients.
Factors Associated With Stability for Children in Family Foster Care: A Study of Case Files in Six Municipalities in Sweden
Authors: Bergman Ann‐Sofie , Bask Miia , Engwall Kristina , Järkestig Berggren Ulrika
Published: April 2024

Stability is vital for the development, health and relationships of children in family foster care. Instability can lead to social and school issues, low self‐esteem and diminished trust in caregivers. This article examines the risk and protective factors for stability for these children. Data, drawn from case files in six municipalities (n = 116), combine qualitative and quantitative analyses for a comprehensive understanding. Twenty children from each municipality were selected, with 10 in stable placements (lived in one family foster home for over a year) and 10 in unstable placements (lived in at least two different family foster homes). Quantitative results highlight the importance of factors like familiar placements, a child's age at the time of placement, behavioural challenges and the number of children in the foster home. Stable placements were more common in homes with fewer children (including foster and biological children). Qualitative findings show that in some instances, breakdowns in foster care placements could not be foreseen, often arising from stressful events within the foster family's life after the child's placement. Additionally, we observed that breakdowns sometimes resulted from foster parents lacking the necessary resources to address the child's requirements, particularly in cases involving children with behavioural challenges or extensive needs.
3D Reconstruction and Semantic Modeling of Eyelashes
Authors: Kerbiriou G. , Avril Q. , Marchal M.
Published: April 2024

High‐fidelity digital human modeling has become crucial in various applications, including gaming, visual effects and virtual reality. Despite the significant impact of eyelashes on facial aesthetics, their reconstruction and modeling have been largely unexplored. In this paper, we introduce the first data‐driven generative model of eyelashes based on semantic features. This model is derived from real data by introducing a new 3D eyelash reconstruction method based on multi‐view images. The reconstructed data is made available which constitutes the first dataset of 3D eyelashes ever published. Through an innovative extraction process, we determine the features of any set of eyelashes, and present detailed descriptive statistics of human eyelashes shapes. The proposed eyelashes model, which exclusively relies on semantic parameters, effectively captures the appearance of a set of eyelashes. Results show that the proposed model enables interactive, intuitive and realistic eyelashes modeling for non‐experts, enriching avatar creation and synthetic data generation pipelines.
Which factors influence the participation in statutory skin cancer screenings in Germany?
Authors: Andrees Valerie , Wolf Sandra , Liebers Jan , Augustin Matthias , Girbig Gefion
Published: April 2024

Background and objectives

Due to increasing skin cancer incidence, Germany implemented a statutory nationwide routine skin cancer screening (rSCS) in 2008. The present study aims (1) to analyze which patient factors are associated with the participation in rSCS in Germany and (2) to investigate reasons for nonparticipation.

Patients and methods

Participants and nonparticipants of rSCS (≥ 35 years) were recruited in routine care in nine dermatological outpatient clinics. Reasons for (non‐)participation, knowledge about skin cancer as well as clinical and socioeconomic data were obtained. Stratified by groups, descriptive analyses and binary logistic regression analyses for associations with participation were performed.

Results

Of the 294 rSCS participants and 162 non‐participants, 46.5% were male with a mean age of 54.5 ± 12.7 years. In total, 87.1% had sunburns in childhood and 47.1% used sunbeds before. Higher age, female gender, previous sunbed use, and concern for and knowledge of skin cancer were significantly associated with previous rSCS participation. Of the non‐participants, 46% were unaware of the option for free rSCS and 40% justified their nonparticipation on the basis of feeling healthy.

Conclusions

The reasons for nonparticipation in rSCS, such as sociodemographic characteristics and risk behavior, should be known in order to optimize rSCS programs.
Impact of prior lenalidomide or proteasome inhibitor exposure on the effectiveness of ixazomib–lenalidomide–dexamethasone for relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma: A pooled analysis from the INSURE study
Authors: Lee Hans C. , Ramasamy Karthik , Macro Margaret , Davies Faith E. , Abonour Rafat , van Rhee Frits , Hungria Vania T. M. , Puig Noemi , Ren Kaili , Silar Jiri , Enwemadu Victoria , Cherepanov Dasha , Leleu Xavier
Published: April 2024

Objectives

To characterize the impact of prior exposure and refractoriness to lenalidomide or proteasome inhibitors (PIs) on the effectiveness and safety of ixazomib–lenalidomide–dexamethasone (IRd) in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM).

Methods

INSURE is a pooled analysis of adult RRMM patients who had received IRd in ≥2 line of therapy from three studies: INSIGHT MM, UVEA‐IXA, and REMIX.

Results

Overall, 391/100/68 were lenalidomide‐naïve/−exposed/−refractory and 37/411/110 were PI‐naïve/−exposed/−refractory. Median duration of therapy (DOT) was 15.3/15.6/4.7 months and median progression‐free survival (PFS) was 21.6/25.8/5.6 months in lenalidomide‐naïve/exposed/refractory patients. Median DOT and PFS in PI‐naïve/exposed/refractory patients were 20.4/15.2/6.9 months and not reached/19.8/11.4 months, respectively. The proportion of lenalidomide‐naïve/exposed/refractory patients in INSIGHT and UVEA‐IXA who discontinued a study drug due to adverse events (AEs) was ixazomib, 31.6/28.2/28.0% and 18.6/6.7/10.5%; lenalidomide, 21.9/28.2/16.0% and 16.1/6.7/10.5%; dexamethasone, 18.4/20.5/16.0% and 10.6/0/10.5%, respectively. The proportion of PI‐naïve/exposed/refractory patients in INSIGHT and UVEA‐IXA who discontinued a study drug due to AEs was: ixazomib, 44.4/28.8/27.8% and 22.2/16.7/15.7%; lenalidomide, 33.3/22.0/19.4% and 16.7/15.9/11.8%; dexamethasone, 33.3/17.4/16.7% and 16.7/9.5/7.8%, respectively. REMIX AE discontinuation rates were unavailable.

Conclusion

IRd appeared to be effective in RRMM patients in routine clinical practice regardless of prior lenalidomide or PI exposure, with better outcomes seen in lenalidomide‐ and/or PI‐nonrefractory versus refractory patients.
Differential atrophy along the longitudinal hippocampal axis in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Morais‐Ribeiro Rafaela , Almeida Francisco C. , Coelho Ana , Oliveira Tiago Gil ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: April 2024

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects the hippocampus. Since hippocampal studies have highlighted a differential subregional regulation along its longitudinal axis, a more detailed analysis addressing subregional changes along the longitudinal hippocampal axis has the potential to provide new relevant biomarkers. This study included structural brain MRI data of 583 participants from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI). Cognitively normal (CN) subjects, mild cognitively impaired (MCI) subjects and AD patients were conveniently selected considering the age and sex match between clinical groups. Structural MRI acquisitions were pre‐processed and analysed with a new longitudinal axis segmentation method, dividing the hippocampus in three subdivisions (anterior, intermediate, and posterior). When normalizing the volume of hippocampal sub‐divisions to total hippocampus, the posterior hippocampus negatively correlates with age only in CN subjects (r = −.31). The longitudinal ratio of hippocampal atrophy (anterior sub‐division divided by the posterior one) shows a significant increase with age only in CN (r = .25). Overall, in AD, the posterior hippocampus is predominantly atrophied early on. Consequently, the anterior/posterior hippocampal ratio is an AD differentiating metric at early disease stages with potential for diagnostic and prognostic applications.
Determining minimal clinically important differences in the Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale Expanded for untreated spinal muscular atrophy patients: An international study
Authors: Coratti Giorgia , Bovis Francesca , Pera Maria Carmela , Scoto Mariacristina , Montes Jacqueline , Pasternak Amy , Mayhew Anna , Muni‐Lofra Robert , Duong Tina , Rohwer Annemarie , Dunaway Young Sally , Civitello Matthew , Salmin Francesca , Mizzoni Irene , Morando Simone , Pane Marika , Albamonte Emilio , D'Amico Adele , Brolatti Noemi , Sframeli Maria , Marini‐Bettolo Chiara , Sansone Valeria Ada , Bruno Claudio , Messina Sonia , Bertini Enrico , Baranello Giovanni , Day John , Darras Basil T. , De Vivo Darryl C. , Hirano Michio , Muntoni Francesco , Finkel Richard , Mercuri Eugenio ,   the ISMAC group
Published: April 2024

Background and purpose

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a rare and progressive neuromuscular disorder with varying severity levels. The aim of the study was to calculate minimal clinically important difference (MCID), minimal detectable change (MDC), and values for the Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale Expanded (HFMSE) in an untreated international SMA cohort.

Methods

The study employed two distinct methods. MDC was calculated using distribution‐based approaches to consider standard error of measurement and effect size change in a population of 321 patients (176 SMA II and 145 SMA III), allowing for stratification based on age and function. MCID was assessed using anchor‐based methods (receiver operating characteristic [ROC] curve analysis and standard error) on 76 patients (52 SMA II and 24 SMA III) for whom the 12‐month HFMSE could be anchored to a caregiver‐reported clinical perception questionnaire.

Results

With both approaches, SMA type II and type III patients had different profiles. The MCID, using ROC analysis, identified optimal cutoff points of −2 for type II and −4 for type III patients, whereas using the standard error we found the optimal cutoff points to be 1.5 for improvement and −3.2 for deterioration. Furthermore, distribution‐based methods uncovered varying values across age and functional status subgroups within each SMA type.

Conclusions

These results emphasize that the interpretation of a single MCID or MDC value obtained in large cohorts with different functional status needs to be made with caution, especially when these may be used to assess possible responses to new therapies.
Nitrogen doped sulfide solid electrolytes with enhanced air stability and lithium metal compatibility
Authors: Luan Zhengying , Ren Pengfei , Wang Xiaofen , Chen Hong , Zhou Qiongyu
Published: April 2024

Compared with oxide, halide, and polymer‐based solid electrolytes, Li‐ion conducting sulfide solid electrolytes exhibit remarkable ionic conductivity, electronic conductivity, and exceptional thermal and mechanical properties. Despite these advantages, the susceptibility of sulfide electrolytes to air and the formation of lithium dendrites on the anode hinder their large‐scale commercial application. In this study, we propose a doping strategy involving the nitrogen (N) element in sulfide electrolyte Li5.5PS4.5Cl1.5 (LPSCl) with inherently high ionic conductivity. We have successfully synthesized Li5.5+xPS4.5−xNxCl1.5(x = .025, .05, .07, .10) solid electrolytes by enhancing their air stability through doping. The modified electrolyte material demonstrates stable cycling performance exhibiting superior air stability compared to Li5.5PS4.5Cl1.5. The results indicate that the doped sulfide solid electrolyte effectively suppresses the growth of lithium dendrites, thereby enhancing the compatibility between the lithium metal anode and sulfide solid electrolyte.
Association between variation in hemoglobin A1c levels and diabetes therapy‐related quality of life in patients with diabetes
Authors: Imai Dan , Ushigome Emi , Sakai Ryosuke , Kitagawa Noriyuki , Hamaguchi Masahide , Yamazaki Masahiro , Fukui Michiaki
Published: April 2024

Aims/Introduction

We aimed to investigate the association between glycemic variability and quality of life (QOL) in patients with diabetes, which has not been studied previously.

Materials and Methods

Patients who were undergoing treatment at the Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine Hospital and Kameoka City Hospital participated in the KAMOGAWA‐DM study, and completed the diabetes therapy‐related (DTR)‐QOL questionnaire from January 2016 to July 2020 were included in this study. We used linear regression analyses to compare the association between DTR‐QOL scores and glycemic variability.

Results

We included a total of 635 patients in this analysis. The hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels of these patients were measured at least four times during the 9‐month period, before and after answering the questionnaire. Results showed that HbA1c variability, HbA1c mean and duration of diabetes were negatively associated with the total DTR‐QOL score. Conversely, the body mass index and total DTR‐QOL score were positively associated with HbA1c variability.

Conclusions

A small variation in HbA1c level was associated with higher total DTR‐QOL scores and the scores for each factor. Reducing blood glucose variability is significant when we treat diabetes.
Ecological distribution of Staphylococcus in integrated farms within Washington DC–Maryland
Authors: Phan Anna , Tabashsum Zajeba , Alvarado‐Martinez Zabdiel , Scriba Aaron , Sellers George , Kapadia Sarika , Canagarajah Christa , Biswas Debabrata
Published: April 2024

Mixed crop livestock farming (MCLF) is a growing practice in organic farming where livestock and crops are grown near each other to promote environmental sustainability through recycling. However, MCLF livestock are reservoirs of many zoonotic pathogens, such as Staphylococcus spp., and can serve as sources of cross‐contamination for plant food products. A surveillance study was conducted to determine the prevalence and antibiotic‐resistance patterns of various Staphylococcus spp. species isolated from the environment of multiple MCLFs and produced from pre‐harvest and post‐harvest levels within the DC–Maryland metropolitan area. A total of 3038 environmental and pre‐harvest produce and 836 post‐harvest produce samples were collected from eight farms and two retail supermarkets. In addition, 36 skin swabs from farmworkers and university students were also collected. PCR was used to confirm the presence of Staphylococcus spp. in all samples. Major species were identified using a species‐specific multiplex PCR. An antibiogram assay was performed to determine antibiotic resistance profiles. The overall prevalence of Staphylococcus spp. was 12.18% pre‐harvest and 7.54% post‐harvest. The most identified species was Staphylococcus epidermidis (19.86%), while most isolates remained unknown (73.90%). Approximately 83.33% of skin swabs were positive for Staphylococcus spp., with Staphylococcus xylosus being the predominant species (16.7%). The highest percentage of isolates were resistant to aminoglycosides and macrolides, with 24.11% of tested samples being multidrug‐resistant. S. epidermidis had the most resistance compared to the other species. This study suggests that antibiotic‐resistant Staphylococcus spp. is present in mixed farm environments, and proper steps need to be taken to control the transmission between livestock, crops, and humans.
Patient characteristics, predictors and outcome of pacemaker patients upgraded to an implantable cardioverter defibrillator
Authors: Baldinger Samuel H. , Burren Désirée , Noti Fabian , Servatius Helge , Seiler Jens , Madaffari Antonio , Asatryan Babken , Tanner Hildegard , Reichlin Tobias , Haeberlin Andreas , Roten Laurent
Published: April 2024

Aims

Pacemaker (PM) patients may require a subsequent upgrade to an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). Limited data exists on this patient population. We sought to characterize this population, to assess predictors for ICD upgrade, and to report the outcome.

Methods

From our prospective PM and ICD implantation registry, all patients who underwent PM and/or ICD implantations at our center were analyzed. Patient characteristics and outcomes of PM patients with subsequent ICD upgrade were compared to age‐ and sex‐matched patients with de novo ICD implantation, and to PM patients without subsequent upgrade.

Results

Of 1′301 ICD implantations, 60 (5%) were upgraded from PMs. Median time from PM implantation to ICD upgrade was 2.6 years (IQR 1.3‐5.4). Of 2′195 PM patients, 28 patients underwent subsequent ICD upgrades, corresponding to an estimated annual incidence of an ICD upgrade of at least 0.33%. Lower LVEF (p = .05) and male sex (p = .038) were independent predictors for ICD upgrade. Survival without death, transplant and LVAD implantation were worse both for upgraded ICD patients compared to matched patients with de novo ICD implantation (p = .05), as well as for PM patients with subsequent upgrade compared to matched PM patients not requiring an upgrade (p = .036).

Conclusions

One of 20 ICD implantations are upgrade of patients with a PM. At least one of 30 PM patients will require an ICD upgrade in the following 10 years. Predictors for ICD upgrade are male sex and lower LVEF at PM implantation. Upgraded patients have worse outcomes.
Sociodemographic inequities in food allergy: Insights on food allergy from birth cohorts
Authors: Warren Christopher M. , Bartell Tami R.
Published: April 2024

A large and growing corpus of epidemiologic studies suggests that the population‐level burden of pediatric FA is not equitably distributed across major sociodemographic groups, including race, ethnicity, household income, parental educational attainment, and sex. As is the case for more extensively studied allergic disease states such as asthma and atopic dermatitis epidemiologic data suggest that FA may be more prevalent among certain populations experiencing lower socioeconomic status (SES), particularly those with specific racial and ethnic minority backgrounds living in highly urbanized regions. Emerging data also indicate that these patients may also experience more severe FA‐related physical health, psychosocial, and economic outcomes relating to chronic disease management. However, many studies that have identified sociodemographic inequities in FA burden are limited by cross‐sectional designs that are subject to numerous biases. Compared with cross‐sectional study designs or cohorts established later in life, birth cohorts offer advantages relative to other study designs when investigators seek to understand causal relationships between exposures occurring during the prenatal or postnatal period and the atopic disease status of individuals later in life. Numerous birth cohorts have been established across recent decades, which include evaluation of food allergy‐related outcomes, and a subset of these also have measured sociodemographic variables that, together, have the potential to shed light on the existence and possible etiology of sociodemographic inequities in food allergy. This manuscript reports the findings of a comprehensive survey of the current state of this birth cohort literature and draws insights into what is currently known, and what further information can potentially be gleaned from thoughtful examination and further follow‐up of ongoing birth cohorts across the globe.

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Allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in an Iranian patient with osteopetrosis caused by carbonic anhydrase II deficiency: A case report
Authors: Shamsian Bibi Shahin , Momtazmanesh Nader , Saneifard Hedyeh , Tabatabaei Seyed Mohammad Taghi Hosseini , Jafari Mohammadreza , pour Zahra Khafaf , Al‐Hussieni Kawthar Jasim Mohammad Rida , Jamee Mahnaz , Kamfar Sharareh
Published: April 2024

Background

Osteopetrosis is a group of geneticall heterogeneous disorders resulting from impaired osteoclast function and bone resorption. The identification of specific genetic mutations can yield important prognostic and therapeutic implications. Herein, we present the diagnosis and successful application of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in a patient with osteopetrosis caused by carbonic anhydrase II deficiency (Intermediate osteopetrosis).

Case Presentation

Herein, we describe a 2.5‐year‐old male patient born to consanguineous parents who presented at 8‐month‐old with hydrocephaly, brain shunt, and developmental delay. Later at 9 months old, he was found to have eye disorder such as nystagmus, fracture of the elbow, abnormal skeletal survey, normal cell blood count (CBC), and severe hypocellularity in the bone marrow. Further evaluation showed renal tubular acidosis type 2. Whole‐exome sequencing revealed a pathogenic homozygous variant in intron 2 of the carbonic anhydrase 2 gene (CA2) gene (c.232 + 1 G>T). The diagnosis of intermediate autosomal recessive osteopetrosis was established, and allogenic HSCT from his mother, a full‐matched related donor (MRD), was planned. The conditioning regimen included Busulfan, Fludarabine, and Rabbit anti‐thymocyte globulin. Cyclosporine and Mycophenolate Mofetil were used for graft‐versus‐host‐disease prophylaxis. He Engrafted on day +13, and 95% chimerism was achieved. He is currently doing well without immunosuppressive therapy, now 12 months post HSCT, with normal calcium level and improving visual quality and FISH analysis revealed complete donor chimerism.

Discussion

HSCT could be a promising curative treatment for intermediate osteopetrosis and can provide long‐term survival. Ongoing challenges in various aspects of HSCT remain to be addressed.
Causal chain event graphs for remedial maintenance
Authors: Yu Xuewen , Smith Jim Q.
Published: April 2024

The analysis of system reliability has often benefited from graphical tools such as fault trees and Bayesian networks. In this article, instead of conventional graphical tools, we apply a probabilistic graphical model called the chain event graph (CEG) to represent the failures and processes of deterioration of a system. The CEG is derived from an event tree and can flexibly represent the unfolding of asymmetric processes. For this application, we need to define a new class of formal intervention we call remedial to model the causal effects of remedial maintenance. This fixes the root causes of a failure and returns the status of the system to as good as new. We demonstrate that the semantics of the CEG are rich enough to express this novel type of intervention. Furthermore, through the bespoke causal algebras, the CEG provides a transparent framework with which to guide and express the rationale behind predictive inferences about the effects of various types of remedial intervention. A backdoor theorem is adapted to apply to these interventions to help discover when a system is only partially observed.
Visualization of the Stingless Bee Research in Southeast Asia Region through Bibliometric Analysis using Scopus Database from 1984 to 2022
Authors: Abd Wahid Dg. Nooralizan , Abd. Rahman Abu Bakar , Abd Hamid Ag Sufiyan , Makmud Mohamad Zul Hilmey , Jamain Zuhair , Goh Poh Wah Lucky , Syed Najmuddin Syed Umar Faroq , Zahari Nur Zaida , Mohd Sakeh Nurshafika , Sabullah Mohd Khalizan
Published: April 2024

The increasing activity of meliponiculture which plays a role as a natural agricultural pollinator as well as the production of stingless bee honey over time has encouraged high-impact research efforts around the world. Stingless bee honey is well known as a "superfood" product and has received significant attention due to its various applications such as the treatment of various diseases both traditionally and clinically. In this context, understanding interesting topics and expanding the network of collaborations is desirable to advance research towards integrated efforts, moreover, the Southeast Asia region (SEA) is one of the major revenue contributors to the global market, especially stingless bees. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the research literature on stingless bee honey in the SEA region by conducting a bibliometric analysis of research papers in the Scopus database. A total of 543 journal articles published between 1984–2022 were obtained. The results have shown that since 2008, the average number of publications has increased by 35 articles per year, resulting in a steady increase in the number of publications accumulated until 2022. Only six countries are listed and almost 60% of total SEA publications are contributed by researchers from Malaysia, followed by Indonesia and Thailand which contribute 21% and 15%, respectively. In addition, among the top 10 most productive affiliates from every country in SEA, seven are universities in Malaysia, while Indonesia and Thailand have only one. The intellectual structure of research on stingless honey has been studied to offer a basic insight into the latest developments in this field of research, which will provide researchers and academics with broad guidelines for conducting further research in related fields.
Hybrid Nanofluids Flow over a Vertical Cylinder with Heat Source/Sink and Prescribed Surface Heat Flux
Authors: Sohut Farizza Haniem , Soid Siti Khuzaimah , Ishak Anuar
Published: April 2024

This work presents the steady mixed convection in Al2O3-Cu/water hybrid nanofluids along a vertically stretching/shrinking cylinder with the prescribed surface heat flux and the effects of heat source/sink. The governing hybrid nanofluids model was simplified using a similarity transformation. The bvp4c solver in MATLAB software is used to solve the hybrid nanofluids flow problem numerically. It is observed that two outcomes are feasible for the assisting and opposing flow regions  as well as stretching and shrinking cases . Besides that, the effects of the dimensionless parameters are analyzed graphically and tabularly. In particular, the critical point is reduced by 3% when the curvature parameter goes from 0 to 0.1 and from 0.1 to 0.2 when the cylinder is stretched. This means that the higher curvature parameter could delay the process of separating the boundary layer. It is noted that the positive heat source will decrease the fluid motions and reduce the shear stress on the surface. Moreover, Al2O3-Cu/water hybrid nanofluids have better performance in heat transfer and velocity of fluid flow than Al2O3/water nanofluids.
The Role of Slip Velocity in Fractional MHD Casson Fluid Flow within Porous Cylinder
Authors: Wan Azmi Wan Faezah , Mohamad Ahmad Qushairi , Jiann Lim Yeou , Shafie Sharidan
Published: April 2024

Numerous academics are intrigued by exploring the fractional Casson fluid model due to its enhanced precision compared to the traditional fluid model. However, many researchers have successfully tackled the analytical solution for the fractional fluid model while overlooking the impact of boundary slip. Hence, this study aims to tackle the challenge of describing the Casson fluid behaviour with fractional properties in a cylindrical domain, considering the influence of slip velocity at the boundaries. Furthermore, magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) had been introduced into the analysis and considered a porous medium resembling a blood clot or fatty plaque. The Caputo-Fabrizio fractional derivative is employed to establish the dimensionless governing equation. Subsequently, we solve it analytically using the Laplace transform in conjunction with finite Hankel transform techniques. A thorough examination follows the graphical presentation of the analytical solution in the context of relevant parameters. The findings illustrate those higher values of the Casson parameter, slip velocity parameter, Darcy number, and fractional parameter lead to an augmentation in fluid velocity. Conversely, an escalation in magnetic parameters causes a reduction in fluid velocity. These findings can be utilized to validate the accuracy of numerical results. The findings of this study hold considerable importance in enhancing our understanding of human blood flow, especially in scenarios where a velocity gradient occurs between blood particles and the stretching motion of arteries.
Enterprise Credit Risk Decision: Application Based on Improved AHP
Authors: Li Tao , Majid Khan Majahar Ali  , Tian Ying  , Lili Wu
Published: April 2024

The credit risk of Shouguang vegetable enterprises in China is the biggest obstacle to corporate loans. Building a credit risk assessment model for Shouguang vegetable enterprises and accurately rating the risk of loan enterprises is the key to successful loans. This article aims to construct an AHP evaluation model for the credit risk of Shouguang vegetable enterprises. The data is sourced from managers, bank credit personnel, university researchers, and enterprise related customers who are familiar with the enterprise, while considering four risk levels: impact degree(I), occurrence probability(P), risk manageability(M), and government support(S). This article uses AHP and risk index scores to evaluate the credit risk of Shouguang vegetable enterprises. This model calculates the risk index score based on survey data from 41 corporate credit risk professionals, constructs a pairwise comparison judgment matrix, and conducts consistency testing. It calculates the risk level membership vectors of impact degree, occurrence probability, risk manageability, and government support level at four risk levels, and then calculates the comprehensive evaluation membership vector of credit risk for Shouguang vegetable enterprise. The calculation results show that the comprehensive credit risk assessment level of Shouguang vegetable enterprise belongs to the general risk level, with a membership value of 0.5836. The results still show that the credit rating of Shouguang vegetable enterprises in the four risk levels of impact degree, occurrence probability, risk manageability, and government support are all average risk levels, but there are differences in membership values. The maximum membership value under the impact degree level is 0.6163, and the minimum membership value under the risk manageability level is 0.5572. This study provides a feasible and practical model for enterprise credit risk assessment and conducts a detailed evaluation of the credit risk of Shouguang vegetable enterprise, providing valuable reference for enterprise managers, bank credit personnel, and related researchers.
Module categories, internal bimodules, and Tambara modules
Authors: Stroiński Mateusz
Published: April 2024

We use the theory of Tambara modules to extend and generalize the reconstruction theorem for module categories over a rigid monoidal category to the nonrigid case. We show a biequivalence between the 2‐category of cyclic module categories over a monoidal category and the bicategory of algebra and bimodule objects in the category of Tambara modules on . Using it, we prove that a cyclic module category can be reconstructed as the category of certain free module objects in the category of Tambara modules on , and give a sufficient condition for its reconstructability as module objects in . To that end, we extend the definition of the Cayley functor to the nonclosed case, and show that Tambara modules give a proarrow equipment for ‐module categories, in which ‐module functors are characterized as 1‐morphisms admitting a right adjoint. Finally, we show that the 2‐category of all ‐module categories embeds into the 2‐category of categories enriched in Tambara modules on , giving an “action via enrichment” result.
Importancia de la función simbólica para la adquisición de la lectura
Authors: González Moreno Claudia Ximena , Solovieva Yulia
Published: April 2024

Se presenta el proceso de evolución de la función simbólica desde la edad preescolar(con el juego de roles sociales)hasta la edad escolar(con la introducción del aprendizaje formal de la lectura).Se parte de la relación entre la función simbólica y el proceso lector, y luego se analizan sus implicaciones en el desarrollo infantil. Se concluye que entre más se fomente la expresión de ideas verbales de un texto en grupo de manera dialogada, se alcanzan mejores niveles de representaciones simbólicas, y por consiguiente se progresa en la comprensión lectora en el niño, porque se generan actualizaciones y transformaciones de la información.
Application of Numerical Bifurcation Tracking Strategy to Blade-Tip/Casing Interactions in Aircraft Engines
Authors: Delbé Clément , Colaïtis Yann , Batailly Alain
Published: April 2024

Building on the regularized-Lanczos harmonic balance method (RL-HBM), a previously developed frequency method, this paper presents a numerical bifurcation tracking strategy dedicated to high-dimensional nonlinear mechanical systems. In order to demonstrate its applicability to industrial applications, it is here used to obtain original results in the context of blade-tip/casing interactions in aircraft engines. The emphasis is put specifically on the tracking of predicted limit point (LP) bifurcations as key parameters—such as the amplitude of the aerodynamic forcing applied on the blade, the friction coefficient or the operating clearances—vary. Overall, presented results underline that the employed frequency method is well-suited to tackle the numerical challenges inherent to such computations on high-dimensional systems. For the mechanical system of interest, the industrial fan blade National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) rotor 67, it is shown that the application of the presented strategy yields an efficient way to identify isolated branches of solutions, which may be of critical importance from a design standpoint.