bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Millennials’ acceptance towards Qard al-hasan: extending Islamic theory of consumer behaviour
Authors: Shaikh Imran Mehboob , Amin Hanudin , Ashiqin Nurul
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to look into millennials’ acceptance of Qard al-hasan using the Islamic theory of consumer behaviour (iTCB) in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

For this study, convenience sampling was used and 203 usable questionnaires were received from the respondents who are millennials and university students. The questionnaire link was distributed via social media platforms to the millennials.

Findings

The findings of this study reveal that there exists a strong and positive relationship between the role of iman and Maqasid consumer index in determining the millennial acceptance of Qard al-hasan. On the contrary, Islamic altruism does not turn out to be the factor of Qard al-hasan acceptance. Resultantly, these results suggest that millennials in Malaysia accept Qard al-hasan and based on those educational institutions may consider offering zero-interest benevolent loans to alleviate the financial burden of unprivileged students.

Research limitations/implications

Although this study provides positive results, a minimum of two research constraints may direct future efforts in this area. This study initially focuses on a specific ecosystem of Islamic financial products in Malaysia, with a particular emphasis on Qard al-hasan. As a result, subsequent research ought to strive to encompass a larger perspective on Qard al-hasan. Secondly, this research uses a theory that is still in the applicability phase, which has led to some productive discussions for further improvements.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this work is one of the few studies conducted on an empirical basis using the iTCB in the milieu of Qard al-hasan in Malaysia.
The effects of brand positioning (underdog vs top dog) and comparative advertising
Authors: Lee Hsiang-Ming , Hsu Ya-Hui , Chen Tsai , Lo Wei-Yuan , Chien Wei-Chun
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to understand the effect of different brand positions (underdog vs top dog) and comparative advertising on consumers’ brand attitudes. Additionally, this study also aims to demonstrate the effects of inspiration, self-relevance and empathy on the relationship between brand positioning and comparative advertising.

Design/methodology/approach

A two-by-three factorial design was employed with brand positions (underdog vs top dog) and three types of comparative advertising (noncomparative, indirect comparative and direct comparative) as the independent variables. Inspiration serves as the mediator, while self-relevance and empathy act as moderators and brand attitude is the dependent variable.

Findings

The results show that different brand positions significantly affect brand attitudes, with respondents having a better brand attitude toward the underdog brand. Brand attitude is partially mediated by inspiration. Self-relevance moderates the relationship between brand positioning and brand attitude. However, brand positioning, comparative advertising and empathy do not have interaction effects.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to a better understanding of the effect of psychological variables on brand positioning and comparative advertising.

Practical implications

The results suggest that the underdog setting requires a real and honest story because consumers will spot a fake underdog story, which will damage consumer trust in the brand and harm the brand image.

Originality/value

There is a lack of research using psychological variables to demonstrate the effect of being the underdog brand. This study contributes to the literature by employing psychological variables to illustrate the effect of underdog positioning. These findings can help brands develop branding positioning strategies.
Challenges faced by female lecturers and students in tourism departments and suggested remedies
Authors: Ertac Cankan Murude
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study explores the various obstacles that female instructors and students confront in tourism education.

Design/methodology/approach

Utilizing qualitative research approaches and a thorough literature assessment, this study investigates women’s complex challenges in the academic and educational domains. The study examines the particular difficulties faced by female professors, such as work-life balance concerns, gender bias and limited opportunities for career advancement. Furthermore, the study also analyses the challenges that female students confront, including the threat of stereotypes, sexual harassment during internships and restricted access to networking and mentorship possibilities.

Findings

Findings illustrate that both female tourism academics and students face gender discrimination in academia and in the sector.

Practical implications

The findings may contribute valuable insights for policymakers, educators and stakeholders, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions and inclusive policies to create supportive environments for female lecturers and students in these departments.

Originality/value

This is the first study done in North Cyprus, which specifically analyzes gender inequality in tourism education. It is valuable as it emphasizes the significance of advancing gender equality in tourism and hospitality education.
Root traits vary as much as leaf traits and have consistent phenotypic plasticity among 14 populations of a globally widespread herb
Authors: Dawson Wayne , Bòdis Judit , Bucharova Anna , Catford Jane A. , Duncan Richard P. , Fraser Lauchlan , Groenteman Ronny , Kelly Ruth , Moore Joslin L. , Pärtel Meelis , Roach Deborah , Villellas Jesus , Wandrag Elizabeth M. , Finn Alain , Buckley Yvonne M.
Published: February 2024

Our understanding of plant functional trait variation among populations and how this relates to local adaptation to environmental conditions is largely shaped by above‐ground traits. However, we might expect below‐ground traits linked to resource acquisition and conservation to vary among populations that experience different environmental conditions. Alternatively, below‐ground traits might be highly plastic in response to growing conditions, such as availability of soil resources and association with symbiont arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF).

We assessed (i) the strength of among‐population variation in above‐ and below‐ground traits, (ii) the effects of growing conditions on among‐population variation and (iii) whether variation among populations is linked to source environment conditions, in a globally distributed perennial Plantago lanceolata. Using seeds from 14 populations across three continents, we grew plants in a common garden experiment and measured leaf and root traits linked to resource acquisition and water conservation. We included two sets of experimental treatments (high or low water availability; with and without AMF inoculation), which enabled us to assess trait responses to growing conditions.

Across treatments, the percentage of root trait variation explained by populations and continents was 9%–26%, compared to 7%–20% for leaf trait variation. From principal component analysis (PCA), the first PC axis for both root and leaf traits largely reflected plant size, while the second PC broadly captured mass allocation. Root mass allocation (PC 2) was related to mean annual temperature and mean moisture index, indicating that populations from cooler, wetter environments had longer, thinner roots. However, we found little support for a relationship between source environment and leaf trait PCs, root system size (PC1) or individual traits. Water availability and AMF inoculation effects on size were consistent among populations, with larger plants under AMF inoculation, and less mass allocation to leaves under lower water availability.

Plantago lanceolata shows substantial population‐level variation in a suite of root traits, but that variation is only partially linked to the source environmental variables studied. Despite considerable differences in source abiotic environments, geographically separated populations have retained a strong and similar capacity for phenotypic plasticity both above and below‐ground.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Earnings News and Over‐the‐Counter Markets
Authors: HUBER STEFAN J. , KIM CHONGHO , WATTS EDWARD M.
Published: February 2024

We document significant increases in bond market liquidity around earnings announcements. These increases are attributed to decreased search and bargaining costs, which arise from the over‐the‐counter (OTC) nature of bond markets and outweigh increases in information asymmetry during these periods. Our evidence traces reductions in search and bargaining costs to two sources around earnings announcements: (1) improved access to dealers and (2) increased participation from institutional investors, who can more easily transact with multiple dealers. Overall, our findings highlight a novel channel through which firm‐specific information affects asset prices.
The hedonic price model for the wine market: A systematic and comparative review of the literature
Authors: Núñez Jacobo , Martín‐Barroso David , Velázquez Francisco J.
Published: February 2024

This paper carries out a thorough review of the literature on the estimation of hedonic price functions in the wine market, compiling and carefully documenting all research work on the subject. The review analyses the main methodological decisions taken by the different authors, as well as the typology of the available databases: identification of the relevant market, specification of the price function, sources and types of prices, econometric methodology, and type of publication. The variance decomposition analysis of the Adjusted‐R‐squared values from the estimated hedonic price functions suggests that attribute selection, the definition of the product market, the characteristics of information sources, and the implemented econometric procedures are the most relevant factors in explaining the models’ explanatory power.
An algorithm based on immunotherapy discontinuation and liver biopsy spares corticosteroids in two thirds of cases of severe checkpoint inhibitor‐induced liver injury
Authors: Riveiro‐Barciela Mar , Barreira‐Díaz Ana , Salcedo María‐Teresa , Callejo‐Pérez Ana , Muñoz‐Couselo Eva , Iranzo Patricia , Ortiz‐Velez Carolina , Cedrés Susana , Díaz‐Mejía Nely , Ruiz‐Cobo Juan Carlos , Morales Rafael , Aguilar‐Company Juan , Zamora Ester , Oliveira Mafalda , Sanz‐Martínez María‐Teresa , Viladomiu Lluis , Martínez‐Gallo Mónica , Felip Enriqueta , Buti María
Published: February 2024

Background

There are few data on corticosteroids (CS)‐sparing strategies for checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)‐induced liver injury (ChILI).

Aim

We aimed to assess the performance of a 2‐step algorithm for severe ChILI, based on ICI temporary discontinuation (step‐1) and, if lack of biochemical improvement, CS based on the degree of necroinflammation at biopsy (step‐2).

Methods

Prospective study that included all subjects with grade 3/4 ChILI. Peripheral extended immunophenotyping was performed. Indication for CS: severe necroinflammation; mild or moderate necroinflammation with later biochemical worsening.

Results

From 111 subjects with increased transaminases (January 2020 to August 2023), 44 were diagnosed with grade 3 (N = 35) or grade 4 (N = 9) ChILI. Main reason for exclusion was alternative diagnosis. Lung cancer (13) and melanoma (12) were the most common malignancies. ICI: 23(52.3%) anti‐PD1, 8(18.2%) anti‐PD‐L1, 3(6.8%) anti‐CTLA‐4, 10(22.7%) combined ICI. Liver injury pattern: hepatocellular (23,52.3%) mixed (12,27.3%) and cholestatic (9,20.5%). 14(32%) presented bilirubin >1.2 mg/dL. Overall, 30(68.2%) patients did not require CS: 22(50.0%) due to ICI discontinuation (step‐1) and 8/22 (36.4%) based on the degree of necroinflammation (step‐2). Biopsy mainly impacted on grade 3 ChILI, sparing CS in 8 out of 15 (53.3%) non‐improvement patients after ICI discontinuation. CD8+ HLA‐DR expression (p = 0.028), central memory (p = 0.046) were lower in CS‐free managed subjects, but effector‐memory cells (p = 0.002) were higher. Time to transaminases normalisation was shorter in those CS‐free managed (overall: p < 0.001, grade 3: p < 0.001). Considering our results, a strategy based on ICI discontinuation and biopsy for grade 3 ChILI is proposed.

Conclusions

An algorithm based on temporary immunotherapy discontinuation and biopsy allows CS avoidance in two thirds of cases of severe ChILI.
The significance of sketching: Drawing a streetscape in a Nairobi neighbourhood
Authors: Thieme Tatiana A.
Published: February 2024

This piece examines the value of sketching in ethnographic fieldwork. Thinking with a sketch drawn of a Nairobi streetscape one morning, I discuss how sketching can enable a particular engagement with our surroundings that serves both as a licence to lurk and a valuable mode of recording what we see. I also consider how the sketch becomes a meaningful artefact that can be shared in the moment or later on, as another way of conveying an argument or telling a story. I argue that both the sketch itself and the practice of sketching can help us pay really close attention to our surroundings while accepting the limits to what we can know about ‘the field’.
Metabolomic biomarkers for (R, S)‐ketamine and (S)‐ketamine in treatment‐resistant depression and healthy controls: A systematic review
Authors: Kumar Rakesh , Nuñez Nicolas A. , Joshi Neha , Joseph Boney , Verde Alessandra , Seshadri Ashok , Cuellar Barboza Alfredo B. , Prokop Larry J. , Medeiros Gustavo C. , Singh Balwinder
Published: February 2024

Background

Ketamine is increasingly used for treatment‐resistant depression (TRD) while its mechanism of action is still being investigated. In this systematic review, we appraise the current evidence of metabolomic biomarkers for racemic ketamine and esketamine in patients with TRD and healthy controls (HCs).

Methods

A comprehensive search of several databases (Ovid MEDLINE®, Embase, and Epub Ahead of Print) was performed from each database's inception to June 29, 2022, in any language, was conducted. We included studies wherein the metabolomic biomarkers for racemic ketamine or esketamine were investigated in TRD or HCs. Our main outcomes were to examine changes in metabolites among patients treated with ketamine/esketamine and explore the association with response to ketamine/esketamine.

Results

A total of 1859 abstracts were screened of which 11 were included for full‐text review. Of these, a total of five articles were included (N = 147), including three RCTs (n = 129) and two open‐label trials (n = 18). All studies used racemic ketamine; one study additionally used esketamine. The included studies evaluated patients with treatment‐resistant bipolar depression (n = 22), unipolar depression (n = 91), and HCs (n = 34). The included studies reported alteration in several metabolites including acylcarnitines, lipids, kynurenine (KYN), and arginine with ketamine in TRD. Studies suggest the involvement of energy metabolism, KYN, and arginine pathways. In HCs, acetylcarnitine decreased post‐infusion, whereas inconsistent findings were observed after the ketamine infusion in TRD patients.

Conclusions

This systematic review provides preliminary evidence that ketamine may cause changes in several important pathways involved in energy metabolism and inflammation. Larger and more rigorous studies are needed.
Altered parietal operculum cortex 2 functional connectivity in benign paroxysmal positional vertigo patients with residual dizziness: A resting‐state fMRI study
Authors: Chen Zhengwei , Liu Yueji , Lin Cunxin , Liu Dan , Xiao Lijie , Liu Haiyan , Wei Xiu‐e , Rong Liangqun
Published: February 2024

Aims

To investigate changes in functional connectivity (FC) focusing on parietal operculum cortex 2 (OP2) in benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) patients with residual dizziness (RD) after successful canalith repositioning procedure (CRP).

Methods

High‐resolution three‐dimensional T1 and resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) were performed on 55 healthy controls (HCs), 55 BPPV patients with RD, and 55 patients without RD after successful CRP. Seed‐based (bilateral OP2) FC was calculated to investigate the changes in FC among the three groups. Additionally, we further explored the associations between abnormal FC and clinical symptoms.

Results

One‐way analysis of covariance showed significant FC differences among the three groups. Post‐hoc analysis showed that patients with RD exhibited decreased FC between left OP2 and regions of left angular gyrus (AG), thalamus, precuneus, middle frontal gyrus (MFG), and right cerebellum posterior lobe (CPL) in comparison with HCs. In addition, compared with patients without RD, patients with RD showed decreased FC between left OP2 and regions of left MFG, AG, middle temporal gyrus, and right CPL. Moreover, in patients with RD, the FC between left thalamus and OP2 was negatively correlated with duration of RD, and the FC between left AG and OP2 was negatively correlated with duration of BPPV.

Conclusion

BPPV patients with RD showed reduced FC between brain regions involved in vestibular processing and spatial cognition; These results suggested that BPPV patients with RD might have diminished central processing of vestibular information and impaired spatial cognition.
Serum response factor promoting axonal regeneration by activating the Ras–Raf‐Cofilin signaling pathway after the spinal cord injury
Authors: Gao Limin , Zhang Chen , Zhu Yonglin , Zhang Naili , Zhang Chunlei , Zhou Shuai , Feng Guoying , Huang Fei , Zhang Luping
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Serum response factor (SRF) is important in muscle development, tissue repair, and neuronal regulation.

Objectives

This research aims to thoroughly examine the effects of SRF on spinal cord injury (SCI) and its ability to significantly impact the recovery and regeneration of neuronal axons.

Methods

The researchers created rat models of SCI and scratch injury to primary spinal cord neurons to observe the expression of relevant factors after neuronal injury.

Results

We found that the SRF, Ras, Raf, and cofilin levels increased after injury and gradually returned to normal levels. Afterward, researchers gave rats with SCI an SRF inhibitor (CCG1423) and studied the effects with nuclear magnetic resonance and transmission electron microscopy. The SRF inhibitor rodents had worse spinal cord recovery and axon regrowth than the control group. And the apoptosis of primary neurons after scratch injury was significantly higher in the SRF inhibitor group. Additionally, the researchers utilized lentiviral transfection to modify the SRF expression in neurons. SRF overexpression increased neuron migration while silencing SRF decreased it. Finally, Western blotting and RT‐PCR were conducted to examine the expression changes of related factors upon altering SRF expression. The results revealed SRF overexpression increased Ras, Raf, and cofilin expression. Silencing SRF decreased Ras, Raf, and Cofilin expression.

Conclusion

Based on our research, the SRF promotes axonal regeneration by activating the “Ras–Raf‐Cofilin” signaling pathway.
Understanding variation in impacts from private protected areas across regions and protection mechanisms to inform organizational practices
Authors: Hagen Sarah , Nolte Christoph , Chang Yuhe , Morgan Seth , Boccaletti Giulio , Reddy Sheila M. W.
Published: February 2024

Private land protection is an important and growing tool to address biodiversity loss and climate change. Thus, better empirical evidence on the effectiveness of private land protection and organizational practices, such as targeting of lands for protection and choice of protection mechanism (i.e., fee simple land acquisition and conservation easements), is needed. We addressed this gap by estimating the impacts of The Nature Conservancy's (TNC) (a large nongovernmental organization with relatively decentralized management) conservation land acquisitions and easements from 1988 to 2016 in three regions of the United States (Mid‐Atlantic, New England and New York, and California). We estimated impact in terms of avoided conversion by comparing natural land cover on 3179 protected parcels with matched unprotected parcels. Nineteen of 21 ecoregional plans used threats of agriculture and development to identify priorities for protection. When regions and protection mechanisms were pooled, on average there was no evidence of avoided conversion from 1988 to 2016. Accounting for mechanisms, TNC land acquisitions avoided conversion and easements did not. TNC's easements on parcels acquired by conservation partners did avoid conversion. Limitations of these results include focus on a single measure of impact, inability to capture future avoided conversion, and low land cover change accuracy in California. Our results suggest that private land protection managers who seek to avoid land conversion in the near to medium term should increase focus on areas with higher threats. Special attention should be paid to strengthening accountability and the role of partners, improving or clarifying how easements are used, and facilitating the flow of resources to work with the greatest potential impact.
How a dedicated postdischarge unit can reduce hospital congestion and costs
Authors: Khatami Maryam , Stauffer Jon M. , Lawley Mark A.
Published: February 2024

Depending on the patient's condition, up to 60% of inpatients are discharged to post–acute care facilities (PACFs). These patients may experience several days of nonmedical inpatient stay until the hospital finds a facility that fits their needs, contributing to overcrowding in upstream units. This article studies the feasibility of creating a “postdischarge unit” (PDU) for medically ready‐for‐discharge patients who experience transfer delays, to improve access to inpatient beds. We use a multistage stochastic program, solved with a dual dynamic programming algorithm, to address the PDU size and capacity question. The random variable is the number of bed requests from upstream units (e.g., emergency department). Our numerical analysis, using data from a large hospital, shows that a PDU can reduce costs and significantly reduce the number of patients waiting for transfer to PACFs that are occupying inpatient beds, as long as the percentage of these patients in the hospital is more than 4%. Compared to current practice in our partner hospital, a PDU could increase access to inpatient beds by up to 13% and result in 2%–21% cost savings. Results show that PDU capacity in hospitals with a larger number of patients waiting for transfer is more sensitive to variation in PDU renovation and operational costs. In addition to using fewer medical staff, a PDU can improve discharge transitions to lower levels of care and more efficiently utilize social workers and physical therapists assisting these patients.
What is meant by ‘integrated personalized diabetes management’: A view into the future and what success should look like
Authors: Guldemond Nick
Published: February 2024

Integrated personalized diabetes management (IPDM) has emerged as a promising approach to improving outcomes in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). This care approach emphasizes the integration and coordination of different providers, including physicians, nurses, dietitians, social workers and pharmacists. The goal of IPDM is to provide patients with personalized care that is tailored to their needs. This review addresses the concept of integrated care and the use of technology (including data, software applications and artificial intelligence) as well as managerial, regulatory and financial aspects. The implementation and upscaling of digitally enabled IPDM are discussed, with elaboration of successful practices and related evidence. Finally, recommendations are made. It is concluded that the adoption of digitally enabled IPDM on a global level is inevitable, considering the challenges created by an increasing prevalence of patients with DM and the need for better outcomes and improvement of health system sustainability.
Factors associated with reporting left ventricular ejection fraction with 3D echocardiography in real‐world practice
Authors: Faridi Kamil F. , Zhu Zhaohan , Shah Nimish N. , Crandall Ian , McNamara Robert L. , Flueckiger Peter , Bachand Karen , Lombo Bernardo , Hur David J. , Agarwal Vratika , Reinhardt Samuel W. , Velazquez Eric J. , Sugeng Lissa
Published: February 2024

Background

Guidelines recommend 3D echocardiography (3DE) to assess left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) on transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) when possible, but it is unclear which factors are most strongly associated with reporting 3DE LVEF in real‐world practice.

Methods

We evaluated 3DE LVEF reporting by age, sex, BMI, TTE location and variation in reporting by sonographer and reader. All TTEs were performed without contrast enhancement agent at a large medical center from 9/2015 to 12/2020 using ultrasound machines capable of 3DE. We used multivariable logistic regression to assess which factors were most associated with reporting 3DE LVEF.

Results

Among 35 641 TTEs included in this study, 57.4% were performed on women. 3DE LVEF was reported on 18 391 TTEs (51.6% of cohort; 50.5% for women and 52.4% for men). Portable inpatient TTEs (n = 5569) had the lowest rates of 3DE LVEF reporting (30.9%), while general outpatient TTEs (n = 15 933) had greater reporting (56.9%). Outpatient TTEs with an indication for chemotherapy (n = 3244) had the highest rates of 3DE LVEF (87.2%). The median (IQR) percentage of TTEs reporting 3D LVEF was 52.7% (43.1%–68.1%) among sonographers and 51.6% (46.5%–59.6%) among readers. Among 20082 (56.3%) TTEs with 3DE LVEF measured by sonographers, 91.6% were included by readers in the final report. After adjustment, performing sonographer in the highest reporting quartile was most strongly associated with reporting 3DE LVEF (OR 7.04, 95% CI 6.55–7.56), while an inpatient portable study had the strongest negative association for reporting (OR .38, 95% CI .35–.40).

Conclusions

Use of 3DE LVEF in real‐world practice varies substantially based on performing sonographer and is low for hospitalized patients, but can be frequently used for chemotherapy. Initiatives are needed to increase sonographer 3DE acquisition in most clinical settings.
The differential contribution of coyotes and passerines on future biotic carbon storage through juniper seed dispersal
Authors: Draper John P. , Young Julie K. , Beckman Noelle G. , Atwood Trisha B.
Published: February 2024

Differences in seed dispersal patterns can alter plant distributions, species persistence, plant community composition, and biotic carbon sequestered within a landscape. Though carnivorans are known to be frugivorous, their contribution to seed dispersal is marginally studied, especially compared to other sympatric dispersers such as passerines. This gap is important to understand because carnivorans may be better suited to assist plant dispersal in disturbed habitats and the longer distances necessary for climate migration. In this study, we evaluated how seed dispersal by a particular carnivoran, coyote Canis latrans, differed from passerines Passeriformes for juniper Juniperus sp. in the conterminous United States under future climate change. We modeled changes in juniper niche suitability starting in 2021 through the next 80 years of climate change by estimating the current niche with Maxent, and then using climate predictions to define spatial changes in suitable niches. Seed dispersal by both coyote and passerine dispersers was simulated to estimate total juniper dispersal, juniper encroachment into grasslands, and finally changes in above‐ground biotic carbon storage due to juniper encroachment. Our models indicate that over the next 80 years, suitable conditions for juniper will contract, but losses from the current range will be minimal. Our model suggests that coyote dispersal of juniper will result in a 54–59% increase in range, which is 2.5 times as much as the estimated increase provided by passerines. We estimate that coyotes will facilitate juniper encroachment into 170 000–185 000 km2 of current grasslands, 3.4 times as much as passerines. Modeling the effect of coyote‐mediated juniper encroachment of grasslands, we forecast that the addition of woody aboveground biomass will provide between 1.1 and 1.2 Pg of additional carbon storage over the next 80 years. Results highlight how coyotes and passerines provide different outcomes for changes in juniper ranges, plant community composition, and landscape carbon storage. Understanding the differences in outcomes provided by different seed dispersers is important for modeling plant species distributions and carbon storage.
Equine uveitis: Outcome and adverse effects after one or two intravitreal low‐dose gentamicin injections
Authors: Morén S. , Kallberg M. , Strom L.
Published: February 2024

Background

Uveitis is common in horses, potentially turning chronic (persistent or recurrent) resulting in impaired vision or blindness. All mainstay therapeutics aims at controlling inflammation, but long‐term or lifelong treatment is often needed with possibly severe side effects. Therefore, intravitreal injections with low‐dose gentamicin (IVGI) have been used in attempt to give a long‐lasting result with potentially less side effects.

Objectives

To retrospectively assess outcome and long‐term complications following one or two low‐dose IVGI in Swedish horses with chronic uveitis.

Study design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

Medical records of horses diagnosed with uveitis examined at the Equine Clinic of the University Animal Hospital of Sweden between 2016 and 2021 were reviewed. Inclusion criteria were horses with a diagnosis of chronic uveitis that were treated with 4 mg IVGI. After injection, tapering doses of anti‐inflammatory medications were administered. Due to persistence or recurrence of uveitis despite IVGI, some horses received a second injection. A positive outcome was defined as controlled uveitis, despite no or minimal anti‐inflammatory medication.

Results

32 eyes (29 horses) were included. Based on clinical evaluation, uveitis was classified as anterior (91%) or panuveitis (9%). 10 eyes were treated with IVGI twice. A positive outcome was observed in 13/32 eyes (41%). Inflammation in 9/32 eyes was controlled after the first, and in 4/10 eyes after the second IVGI treatment. Long‐term complications included retinal degeneration in seven eyes, and mature cataracts in five eyes. Enucleations were performed in 14/32 eyes, due to lack of favourable response of IVGI, or due to complications, that is, glaucoma, corneal ulceration, and/or corneal mineralisation. One horse was euthanised due to painful bouts of inflammation in both eyes despite treatment.

Main limitations

Small sample size, retrospective design with no control group, no histopathology performed, infrequent sampling for Leptospira and no standardised treatment protocol after the IVGI.

Conclusions

In this group of Swedish horses, predominantly diagnosed clinically with anterior uveitis, a positive outcome was observed in 41% of eyes following one or two low‐dose IVGI. Retinal degeneration in the visual streak was observed in 22% of eyes, which is a higher proportion of this complication than previously described.
Organic matter content and source is associated with the depth‐dependent distribution of prokaryotes in lake sediments
Authors: Yan Dongna , An Zhisheng , Capo Eric
Published: February 2024

Aquatic sediments harbour a diverse array of microorganisms that drive organic matter recycling, carbon sequestration and greenhouse gases (e.g., CO2, CH4, N2O) emissions. Although largely studied in water columns, vertical profiles of the diversity and composition of prokaryotic communities (i.e., Bacteria and Archaea) in aquatic sediments are still rare. More specifically, much remains to be learnt about their vertical distribution in lake sediments and how environmental conditions at the time of burial have impacted their diversity and composition.

We investigated the vertical distribution of prokaryotic community with 16S rRNA gene quantitative (q)PCR and metabarcoding approaches applied to 93 sediment layers collected in a 2‐m‐long sediment core from the eutrophic alkaline Lake Chenghai in subtropical China. We aimed to study the diversity, composition and structure distribution of the prokaryotic community as well as environmental factors influencing it.

Bacterial abundance was found to decrease with sediment depth although the richness of both bacterial and archaeal assemblages slightly increased with sediment depth. In terms of composition, a strongly stratified sediment–depth pattern was observed in which Proteobacteria, Desulfobacterota, Bacteroidota and Verrucomicrobiota dominated the inventories in the surface sediment layers, whereas Chloroflexi, Spirochaetota, Planctomycetota, Crenarchaeota were more abundant in the deep sediment layers. Organic matter contents and sources were identified as major factors shaping the structure of the prokaryotic community.

Overall, our study provides new evidence about how lake sediment's prokaryotic community are linked to external sources of energy. This complement existing data from other lake systems towards a better understanding of sediment prokaryotic community's contribution to biogeochemical cycle in lakes.
Vital pulp therapy—Factors influencing decision‐making for permanent mature teeth with irreversible pulpitis: A systematic review
Authors: Alfaisal Yasmen , Idris Ghassan , Peters Ove A. , Zafar Sobia , Nagendrababu Venkateshbabu , Peters Christine I.
Published: February 2024

Background

There is an increased tendency towards adopting minimally invasive interventions in dentistry, supported by advancement in materials and techniques. However, the decision‐making process in choosing conservative or invasive treatments is influenced by several factors, particularly in permanent teeth with irreversible pulpitis.

Objectives

The objective of the study was to systematically review the literature regarding factors that influence decision‐making for vital pulp therapy (VPT) as definitive treatment option in permanent mature teeth diagnosed with irreversible pulpitis.

Methods

Two independent reviewers searched five electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus and Cochrane Library). Grey literature was searched through Google Scholar and contact with experts. Defined search keys were applied, and all peer‐reviewed literature published with no language nor publication date limits were included. The All studies investigating the factors influencing treatment decision‐making in mature permanent teeth with irreversible pulpitis were included. The quality of included studies was assessed by two independent reviewers using the Joanna Briggs Institute quality assessment tool.

Results

Six articles were included in the review. All included studies used questionnaires to characterize clinician preferences and attitudes in choosing treatment options for mature permanent teeth with irreversible pulpitis. The available evidence suggests that dentist‐related factors have a significant influence on the chosen treatment in teeth with irreversible pulpitis, with speciality training and years of experience influencing the choice of VPT over other treatment options. COVID‐19 reportedly swayed the dentists’ decision to favour VPT. Only one article studied the influence of patient‐related factors, such as age and presence of spontaneous pain on decision‐making. Of note, a history of cardiovascular disease moved dentists towards prescribing VPT.

Discussion

Collectively, the included studies demonstrated an overriding influence of dentist‐related factors on choosing among treatment options for painful teeth diagnosed with irreversible pulpitis. Patient‐related factors were acknowledged but there are also potential factors such as socio‐economic constraints that were not included in the component studies.

Conclusion

In teeth with irreversible pulpitis clinicians educational background influence the decision towards a specific treatment option. Further data, preferably derived from clinical records, is necessary in future investigations to explore the effect of other important factors related to both dentists and patients.

Registration

PROSPERO database (CRD42022339653).
Artificial intelligence in voice assistants: User benefits explored
Authors: Kim Minseong , Kim Jihye
Published: February 2024

This study demonstrates that consumers' perceptions of voice assistant device (VAD) elements promote psychological ownership and interface flow experience, resulting in satisfaction with, and loyalty toward VADs. To that end, this study collected VAD users in the United States and conducted structural equation modeling to empirically examine the relationships among the variables. The empirical findings indicated that perceived artificiality and intelligence had significant influences on psychological ownership and flow experience. In addition, the empirical results demonstrated that psychological ownership resulted in flow experience with VADs, significantly affecting customer satisfaction and loyalty toward VADs. Finally, customer satisfaction had a significant impact on loyalty. Based on the empirical findings, this study provided meaningful implications for marketing scholars and practitioners.
Individualized small bowel preparation for computed tomography enterography: A prospective randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sun Yi‐Ning , Li Yue‐Yue , Zheng Meng‐Qi , Liang Yong‐Feng , Ji Rui , Yang Xiao‐Xiao , Qu Jun‐Yan , Li Zhen , Zuo Xiu‐Li , Li Yan‐Qing
Published: February 2024

Background and Aim

The study aims to evaluate the feasibility of body mass index (BMI)‐based individualized small bowel preparation for computed tomography enterography (CTE).

Methods

In this prospective randomized controlled study, patients undergoing CTE were randomly assigned to the individualized group or standardized group. Those in individualized group were given different volumes of mannitol solution based on BMI (1000 mL for patients with BMI < 18.5 kg/m2, 1500 mL for patients with 18.5 kg/m2 ≤ BMI < 25 kg/m2 and 2000 mL for patients with BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2) while patients in the standardized group were all asked to consume 1500‐mL mannitol solution. CTE images were reviewed by two experienced radiologists blindly. Each segment of the small bowel was assessed for small bowel image quality and disease detection rates. Patients were invited to record a diary regarding adverse events and acceptance.

Results

A total of 203 patients were enrolled and randomly divided into two groups. For patients with BMI < 18.5 kg/m2, 1000‐mL mannitol solution permitted a significantly lower rate of flatulence (P = 0.045) and defecating frequency (P = 0.011) as well as higher acceptance score (P = 0.015), but did not affect bowel image quality and diseases detection compared with conventional dosage. For patients with BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2, 2000‐mL mannitol solution provided better overall image quality (P = 0.033) but comparable rates of adverse events and patients' acceptance compared with conventional dosage.

Conclusions

Individualized bowel preparation could achieve both satisfactory image quality and patients' acceptance thus might be an acceptable alternative in CTE.
Combination of 5% cysteamine and 4% nicotinamide in melasma: Efficacy, tolerability, and safety
Authors: Crocco Elisete Isabel , Torloni Liliana , Fernandes Paula Bonilha , de Campos Maria Elisa Barbosa Bueno , Gonzaga Maura , Silva Fernanda Cristina , Nasario João Paulo Sardin , Guerra Lucas Offenbecker , Csipak Angélica Richart , Castilho Vivienne Carduz
Published: February 2024

Background

Melasma is a chronic dermatosis that impacts the patient's quality of life and can present considerable challenges in terms of effective treatment.

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness, tolerability, and safety of 5% cysteamine combined with 4% nicotinamide in female subjects with melasma.

Methods

This single‐center, single‐arm, prospective, open‐label study evaluated patients with melasma using a combination cream of 5% cysteamine and 4% nicotinamide in a progressive regimen (60 min in the first month, 120 min in the second month, and 180 min in the third month).

Results

Overall, 35 treated subjects exhibited reduced modified Melasma Area and Severity Index (mMASI) (p < 0.001) and decreased MelasQoL scores (p < 0.001), accompanied by improved brightness, luminosity, homogeneity, and spot intensity (p < 0.001). Photographic and colorimetric analysis revealed smaller spots and improved homogeneity.

Limitations

Adherence to progressive daily treatment could not be evaluated long‐term.

Conclusion

A combination cream comprising 5% cysteamine and 4% nicotinamide was effective, tolerable, and safe for treating melasma.
Women's experiences with opting out of cervical cancer screening and the role of the nurse in the women's decision‐making process
Authors: Damsgaard Signe , Allergodt Kristin , Handberg Charlotte
Published: February 2024

Aim

To explore Danish women's experiences with opting out of cervical cancer screening and the role of the nurse in the women's decision‐making process.

Design

A qualitative study using semi‐structured, individual interviews with a phenomenological‐hermeneutic approach.

Methods

Interviews were conducted with 13 women with experience in opting out of cervical cancer screening. Women were recruited through a public flyer and interviewed virtually or by phone. The interviews were analysed using the theory of interpretation from Paul Ricoeur and consisted of three levels: naïve reading, structural analysis, and critical discussion and analysis. The present study adheres to the COREQ guidelines.

Results

The women experience various personal causes for opting out of cervical cancer screening, such as low accessibility of screening appointments, discomfort during the smear test, fear of being sick, and insufficient information about the relevance of screening to the individual woman. The perceived disadvantages of screening outweighed their perceived advantages. The women's experiences did not include the role of the nurse in the procedures and knowledge sharing related to cervical cancer screening. However, nurses were described as having good communicative and relational qualifications relevant to being involved in cervical cancer screening.

Conclusion

It was challenging for the women to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of cervical cancer screening and thus to make an informed decision about participation. They expressed a need for more information on which to base their decision. This places nurses in a much needed, yet unexplored, role of identifying and lowering potential personal barriers that may outweigh the women's perceived benefits of participating in screening.

Implication for the profession and/or patient care

Nurses should play a more active role in cervical cancer screening such as improving general knowledge and facilitating two‐way communication about its relevance.

Reporting Method

The present study adheres to the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Validity and reliability study of the Cardiff Fertility Knowledge Scale in Turkish
Authors: Odabaş Resmiye Kaya , Ergin Ayla , Birinci Figen Başkan
Published: February 2024

Aim

This study aims to determine the Turkish validity and reliability of the Cardiff Fertility Knowledge Scale.

Methods

This methodological research was conducted between April and December 2022 with 302 married individuals at a health center in Kocaeli province, Turkey. Research data were collected using a Personal Information Form and the Cardiff Fertility Knowledge Scale. Content construct and face validity, item analysis, factor analysis, and internal consistency were used to evaluate the data.

Results

The content validity index of the scale was found to be 0.97, and the Cronbach's alpha coefficient for the Turkish version was 0.68. The total scores of the top 27% group were significantly higher than the scores of the bottom 27% group (p < 0.01). As a result of the analyses, the final version of the scale consisted of 11 items and had a single factor structure, explaining 44.45% of the scale's variance.

Conclusion

The results of the study demonstrate that the Turkish version of the Cardiff Fertility Knowledge Scale is a valid and reliable measurement tool that can be used to assess individuals' fertility knowledge.
Thermophilization and reshuffling of montane leaf beetle communities over a two‐decade period
Authors: Rodríguez‐Pacheco Alba , Formoso‐Freire Victoria , Olalla Lorenzo‐Carballa M. , Baselga Andrés , Gómez‐Rodríguez Carola
Published: February 2024

Given the sensitivity of mountain biodiversity to human pressure, it is essential to quantify changes in montane biological communities and contrast them with expectations based on potential drivers of change. This need is particularly pressing for biological groups representing important but little‐studied fractions of biodiversity, such as insects. We analyze the temporal changes (between 1998 and 2015) of leaf beetle communities in an altitudinal gradient in the Sierra de Ancares (NW Spain). Our results show temporal changes in the composition of local communities, with a tendency to assemblage thermophilization, as well as a homogenization of the spatial turnover pattern, mostly driven by an increased similarity between communities at the lower and intermediate altitudes. These temporal changes in community composition and in the spatial structure of biodiversity were associated with upward shifts of the upper altitudinal limit of warm‐adapted species and with downward shifts of the lower altitudinal limit of cold‐adapted species. While this upward shift is consistent with expectations of climate change effects, the observed downward shift suggests a land‐use change effect. Our results point to the joint effect of multiple factors (climate and land‐use change) behind temporal changes of these leaf beetle communities, which result in compositional reorganization and biotic homogenization, rather than a mere coherent displacement toward higher altitudes. More generally, we show that understanding temporal change of biodiversity requires assessing multiple community‐level metrics (e.g., variation in assemblage composition and/or changes in spatial turnover) for the detection of tendencies among the species‐specific signals (e.g., altitudinal range shifts).