bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wasted GDP in the USA
Authors: Tønnessen Morten
Published: October 2023

Whether or to what extent Gross Domestic Product (GDP) can measure human development is disputed. This article develops a notion of “wasted GDP”, with a case study on the performance of the USA based on analysis of Human Development Index (HDI) data. Like Herman Daly’s notion of ‘uneconomic growth’, the perspective of wasted GDP addresses the benefits and costs of economic growth and favors prioritization of policies that promote genuinely sustainable wellbeing. Over the last three decades, the USA has fallen behind several other highly developed countries in the HDI, despite solid economic growth. More than 20 countries, large and small, now outperform the USA on the Human Development Index, and 27 countries currently do better than the USA by nonincome HDI. 21 countries outperform the USA by this measure despite having a lower GDP per capita. The notion of “wasted GDP” implies that GDP is wasted if it does not support welfare. While a country´s welfare performance is measured by nonincome HDI, a comparison with better-performing countries that have a lower GDP indicates the share of GDP that is wasted from a human development perspective. The results, based on highly conservative estimates, show that the top 5 performers by lowest GDP per capita achieve better outcomes than the USA with an average GDP per capita that is 37.5% lower. All better performers achieve better outcomes with an average GDP per capita that is 26.9% lower. Without any wasted GDP, the annual US CO2 emissions could have been at least 1.268 million tonnes lower (all better performers estimate) and possibly as much as 1.767 million tonnes lower (top 5 performers estimate), accounting for 3.6–5.0% of global emissions. Similarly, the USA´s material footprint could have been between 2.625 million and 3.659 million tonnes lower, accounting for 2.7–3.8% of humanity´s global material footprint.
Brown Bear Cognition and Welfare
Authors: Chambers Helen R. , O’Hara Sean J.
Published: October 2023

The welfare of large-brained wide-roaming carnivores in captivity has been of longstanding public and professional concern. Bears are one such example. Ursids have unexpectedly large relative brain sizes, indeed showing brain size increases similar to those observed in canids. Bears also have considerable space requirements, with extensive home range sizes seen in the wild. Species with complex requirements often face difficulties when placed in artificial environments. Cognitive enrichment, however, may work to ameliorate this by providing stimulating mental challenges for individuals living in zoological settings. This case study explores the proposed benefits of cognitive trials. To do so, we exposed 17 captive European brown bears (
Ursus arctos arctos
) housed in UK zoos to two experimental tasks (1) a puzzle box and (2) an object-manipulation set-up. A total of 14 of the bears voluntarily engaged with the puzzle box, while 15 individuals interacted with the object-manipulation set-up. The bears that failed to interact with the tests were likely dissuaded due to the collective nature of testing, a lack of motivation or fear of novel objects. Cognitive stimulation, such as that provided in our study, offers one means of improving the welfare of captive bears. We advocate the use of cognition studies for zoo-housed bears to enrich their lived-experiences when housed in zoological settings.

Information

© The Authors 2023
Metics and Freedmen: Conflicts of Social and Juridical Status in the Classical and Hellenistic Greek World
Authors: Meyer Elizabeth A
Published: October 2023

Ancient Greek city-states, or poleis, had a bewildering number of terms for people who lived in them. In Athens, freedmen seem to be assimilated juridically to the status of metics (resident aliens), although socially there were ways of both denigrating freedmen and obscuring the distinction between metic and freed. Elsewhere we can see that under some circumstances distinctions between metic and freed were made, but not in ways that point to strong juridical differences. By looking at the development of both statuses historically, I propose that the juridical assimilation occurred in Athens because metic status was created first, in an historical context in which distinctions between citizens and foreigners was crucial: an imperial power with a strong economy was attracting many foreigners to the mother city. This line drawn between citizens and foreigners was expressed through the law in both the fifth and fourth centuries bce. But the social perception of metics changed in the fourth century, for historical reasons deriving from the assimilation of metics and freed into one category. Other areas of the Greek world with both metics and freedmen may have assimilated the two statuses initially, but over time split them apart.
Post-Ablation cardiac Magnetic resonance to assess Ventricular Tachycardia recurrence (PAM-VT study)
Authors: Roca-Luque Ivo , Vázquez-Calvo Sara , Garre Paz , Ortiz-Perez Jose T , Prat-Gonzalez Susanna , Sanchez-Somonte Paula , Ferro Elisenda , Quinto Levio , Alarcón Francisco , Althoff Till , Perea Rosario Jesús , Figueras i Ventura Rosa M , Guasch Eduard , Tolosana José Maria , Lorenzatti Daniel , Morr-Verenzuela Carlos Igor , Porta-Sanchez Andreu , Arbelo Elena , Sitges Marta , Brugada Josep , Mont Lluís
Published: October 2023

Aims

Conducting channels (CCs) detected by late gadolinium enhancement cardiac magnetic resonance (LGE-CMR) are related to ventricular tachycardia (VT). The aim of this work was to study the ability of post-ablation LGE-CMR to evaluate ablation lesions.

Methods and results

This is a prospective study of consecutive patients referred for a scar-related VT ablation. LGE-CMR was performed 6–12 months prior to ablation and 3–6 months after ablation. Scar characteristics of pre- and post-ablation LGE-CMR were compared. During the study period (March 2019−April 2021), 61 consecutive patients underwent scar-related VT ablation after LGE-CMR. Overall, 12 patients were excluded (4 had poor-quality LGE-CMR, 2 died before post-ablation LGE-CMR, and 6 underwent post-ablation LGE-CMR 12 months after ablation). Finally, 49 patients (age: 65.5 ± 9.8 years, 97.9% male, left ventricular ejection fraction: 34.8 ± 10.4%, 87.7% ischaemic cardiomyopathy) were included. Post-ablation LGE-CMR showed a decrease in the number (3.34 ± 1.03 vs. 1.6 ± 0.2; P < 0.0001) and mass (8.45 ± 1.3 vs. 3.5 ± 0.6 g; P < 0.001) of CCs. Arrhythmogenic CCs disappeared in 74.4% of patients. Dark core was detected in 75.5% of patients, and its presence was not related to CC reduction (52.2 ± 7.4% vs. 40.8 ± 10.6%, P = 0.57). VT recurrence after one year follow-up was 16.3%. The presence of two or more channels in the post-ablation LGE-CMR was a predictor of VT recurrence (31.82% vs. 0%, P = 0.0038) with a sensibility of 100% and specificity of 61% (area under the curve 0.82). In the same line, a reduction of CCs < 55% had sensibility of 100% and specificity of 61% (area under the curve 0.83) to predict VT recurrence.

Conclusion

Post-ablation LGE-CMR is feasible, and a reduction in the number of CCs is related with lower risk of VT recurrence. The dark core was not present in all patients. A decrease in VT substrate was also observed in patients without a dark core area in the post-ablation LGE-CMR.
Beyond VO2: the complex cardiopulmonary exercise test
Authors: Mattavelli Irene , Vignati Carlo , Farina Stefania , Apostolo Anna , Cattadori Gaia , De Martino Fabiana , Pezzuto Beatrice , Zaffalon Denise , Agostoni Piergiuseppe
Published: October 2023

Cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) is a valuable diagnostic tool with a specific application in heart failure (HF) thanks to the strong prognostic value of its parameters. The most important value provided by CPET is the peak oxygen uptake (peak VO2), the maximum rate of oxygen consumption attainable during physical exertion. According to the Fick principle, VO2 equals cardiac output (Qc) times the arteriovenous content difference [C(a–v)O2], where Ca is the arterial oxygen and Cv is the mixed venous oxygen content, respectively; therefore, VO2 can be reduced both by impaired O2 delivery (reduced Qc) or extraction (reduced arteriovenous O2 content). However, standard CPET is not capable of discriminating between these different impairments, leading to the need for ‘complex’ CPET technologies. Among non-invasive methods for Qc measurement during CPET, inert gas rebreathing and thoracic impedance cardiography are the most used techniques, both validated in healthy subjects and patients with HF, at rest and during exercise. On the other hand, the non-invasive assessment of peripheral muscle perfusion is possible with the application of near-infrared spectroscopy, capable of measuring tissue oxygenation. Measuring Qc allows, by having haemoglobin values available, to discriminate how much any VO2 deficit depends on the muscle, anaemia or heart.
The alveolar–capillary unit in the physiopathological conditions of heart failure: identification of a potential marker
Authors: Banfi Cristina , Gugliandolo Paola , Paolillo Stefania , Mallia Alice , Gianazza Erica , Agostoni Piergiuseppe
Published: October 2023

In this review, we describe the structure and function of the alveolar–capillary membrane and the identification of a novel potential marker of its integrity in the context of heart failure (HF). The alveolar–capillary membrane is indeed a crucial structure for the maintenance of the lung parenchyma gas exchange capacity, and the occurrence of pathological conditions determining lung fluids accumulation, such as HF, might significantly impair lung diffusion capacity altering the alveolar–capillary membrane protective functions. In the years, we found that the presence of immature forms of the surfactant protein-type B (proSP-B) in the circulation reflects alterations in the alveolar–capillary membrane integrity. We discussed our main achievements showing that proSP-B, due to its chemical properties, specifically binds to high-density lipoprotein, impairing their antioxidant activity, and likely contributing to the progression of the disease. Further, we found that immature proSP-B, not the mature protein, is related to lung abnormalities, more precisely than the lung function parameters. Thus, to the list of the potential proposed markers of HF, we add proSP-B, which represents a precise marker of alveolar–capillary membrane dysfunction in HF, correlates with prognosis, and represents a precocious marker of drug therapy.
Determination of Cannabinoids in Cannabis sativa Oil and Infused Ice Cream by LC-DAD Method
Authors: Raslan-Jaramillo Jefree J , Ríos-Gajardo Gisela A , Avello Marcia A , de Diego Marta G
Published: October 2023

Background

Cannabis sativa is known to produce a class of terpenophenolic compounds named cannabinoids. The two main ones are cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which have therapeutic properties. In the development of cannabis-based preparations, it is important to have suitable analytical methods for the analysis of the principal cannabinoids.

Objective

This study aimed to develop and validate a simple and rapid HPLC method with photodiode array detection for determination of CBD and THC in Cannabis sativa oil extract and infused ice cream, including a stability study.

Method

Chromatographic separation of CBD and THC was performed with a C18 column, with a mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile and water with formic acid (80 + 20 v/v) in isocratic elution mode, with detection at 208 nm for CBD and 280 nm for THC and 1.0 mL/min flow rate.

Results

The method was linear over a range of 1–5 µg/mL for CBD, and 20–100 µg/mL for THC; the relative standard deviation was <3.6%, the recovery ranged between 98.8 and 102.5% for oil and between 84 and 94% for ice cream, QL was 0.33 µg/mL for CBD and 2.30 µg/mL for THC, and the assay demonstrated adequate selectivity. CBD and THC were stable for at least 28 days under light protection at 22°C, 4°C, and -20°C in the oil and for at least 60 days at -20°C in the ice cream.

Conclusions

The results showed that the method was suitable for quantitative determination of CBD and THC in Cannabis sativa oil extract and infused ice cream, and it is useful for quality control purposes.

Highlights

The method is simple and fast, and it is useful for the quality control of a new product corresponding to an ice cream based on a Cannabis sativa oil extract.
Pathologizing Pathos: Suffering, Technocentrism, and Law in Twentieth-Century American Medicine
Authors: Duffee Charlotte
Published: October 2023

In the second half of the twentieth century, concerns about problems in the doctor-patient relationship gave way to a new medical discourse on suffering, owed largely to the work of American physician Eric Cassell. This article tracks the development of his theory of suffering and its global success in transforming tragic medical experiences into diagnosable clinical entities. Beginning with his intellectual development in the 1960s, this article traces Cassell’s initial interest in suffering first to his early research on truth-telling and autonomy, followed by his pioneering work in bioethics. Although closely aligned with philosophy, much of the institutional success of bioethics came from American law, which affected Cassell’s theorizing. At the same time, doctors experienced a growth in medical malpractice lawsuits, driven in large part by costly “pain and suffering” awards, which the medical community sought to curb by encouraging legislatures to codify informed consent. The success of these efforts mandated that doctors disclose previously withheld bad news capable of causing suffering. The cultural changes that followed these disclosures became Cassell’s impetus, while legal pain and suffering supplied much of his theory’s language and concepts.
Gender and Forced Displacement at the International Criminal Court
Authors: Palmer Emma
Published: October 2023

International criminal courts and tribunals have missed opportunities to recognize gendered experiences, including when addressing crimes without a clearly sexual component. The International Criminal Court (ICC) has an opportunity to take a different approach when considering the crime against humanity of deportation in its Bangladesh/Myanmar proceedings. While the prevalence of sexual and other gendered violence, including rape and killings, in Myanmar and perpetrated against the Rohingya is well-documented, and will likely form an important aspect of investigations, there is also scope to explore the gendered nature of displacement. This article reviews the intersection of international criminal law with broader critiques of international law concerned with displacement. It then investigates how ICC Chambers could take a gender-competent approach towards the elements of the crime against humanity of deportation and forcible transfer of population in the Bangladesh/Myanmar proceedings, including when examining the concepts of expulsion and coercion, lawful presence and the purpose of the forcible displacement. It proposes a contextual approach to that analysis, informed by gender-inclusive expert evidence, gender-competent investigation practices and thoughtful integration of victims’ representations
Research on the stability of virtual coupling train formation based on a PID controller under the influence of time delay
Authors: Qiu Sixuan , Li Ningzhou , Wei Xiaojuan , Li Gaosong
Published: October 2023

As the latest research direction of train-to-train communication, virtual coupling train formation technology has attracted the attention of many scholars. This paper studies the influence of time delay on the formation of virtual coupled trains. We proposed a distributed PID controller, which means that trains can still form a stable fleet operation under the influence of communication delay and control delay. After modelling and analysis, the research uses Matlab to conduct simulation, involving two sets of experiments. Factors including speed, acceleration, position, position error, expected distance between adjacent trains and actual distance between adjacent trains are simulated. The results demonstrate that the distributed PID controller can effectively control the impact of time delay on the virtual coupling fleet.
Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 positive acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Isidori Alessandro , Visani Giuseppe , Ferrara Felicetto
Published: October 2023

Purpose of review

Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) mutations are common in newly diagnosed patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). They are associated with a high risk of relapse. The identification of FLT3 mutations has important implications for the management of AML. FLT3 inhibitors have shown improved outcomes in FLT3-positive AML when used as a single agent in the salvage setting. However, the combination of inhibitors and chemotherapy in the first-line setting is the real game changer in FLT3mutant AML. The introduction of these drugs has improved the prognosis of FLT3-mutant AML, but the development of resistance is common. There are still many unanswered questions about FLT3-mutant AML.

Recent findings

This article will analyze recent advances for FLT3-mutant AML, focusing on front-line therapy and post-transplant maintenance.

Novel drug combinations and strategies against FLT3 mutated AML are currently under investigation and will be the focus of future studies. The development of more selective and potent FLT3 inhibitors may further improve outcomes for patients with FLT3-positive AML. Monitoring minimal residual disease and overcoming resistance are key issues for the future.
Cost-Effectiveness of Cardiac Rehabilitation in Older Adults With Coronary Heart Disease
Authors: Shepard Donald S. , Zakir Shehreen , Gaalema Diann E. , Ades Philip A.
Published: October 2023

Purpose:

While cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is recommended and effective following acute cardiac events, it remains underutilized, particularly in older adults. A study of 601 099 Medicare beneficiaries ≥65 yr hospitalized for coronary heart disease compared 5-yr mortality in users and nonusers of CR. Using instrumental variables (IV), CR improved mortality by 8.0% (P < .001). A validation analysis based on 70 040 propensity-based (PB) matched pairs gave a similar gain (8.3%, P < .0001). The present cost-effectiveness analysis builds on these mortality results.

Methods:

Using the framework of the Second Panel on Cost-Effectiveness Analysis, we calculated the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) gained due to CR. We accessed the costs from this cohort, inflated to 2022 prices, and assessed the relationship of quality-adjusted life years (QALY) to life years from a systematic review. We estimated the ICER of CR by modeling lifetime costs and QALY from national life tables using IV and PB.

Results:

Using IV, CR added 1.344 QALY (95% CI, 0.543-2.144) and $40 472 in costs over the remaining lifetimes of participants. The ICER was $30 188 (95% CI, $18 175-$74 484)/QALY over their lifetimes. Using the PB analysis, the corresponding lifetime values were 2.018 (95% CI, 1.001-3.035) QALY, $66 590, and an ICER of $32 996 (95% CI, $21 942-$66 494)/QALY.

Conclusions:

Cardiac rehabilitation was highly cost-effective using guidelines established by the World Health Organization and the US Department of Health and Human Services. The favorable clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of CR, along with low use by Medicare beneficiaries, support the need to increase CR use.
Changing society, changing research: integrating gender to better understand physical and psychological treatments use in chronic pain management
Authors: Godbout-Parent Marimée , Julien Nancy , Nguena Nguefack Hermine Lore , Pagé M. Gabrielle , Guénette Line , Blais Lucie , Beaudoin Sylvie , Bertrand Christian , Lacasse Anaïs
Published: October 2023

Treatment of chronic pain should be multimodal and include pharmacological, physical, and psychological treatments. However, because various barriers to physical and psychological treatments (PPTs) exist, a better understanding of biopsychosocial factors leading to their use is relevant. This study aimed to explore the association between gender identity, gender-stereotyped personality traits, and the use of PPTs in chronic pain management. The ChrOnic Pain trEatment cohort, a self-reported data infrastructure resulting from a web-based recruitment of 1935 people living with chronic pain (Quebec, Canada) was analyzed. Gender identity was operationalized as women, men, and nonbinary. Gender-stereotyped personality traits were measured using the Bem Sex-Role Inventory (feminine, masculine, androgynous, undifferentiated). A checklist of 31 types of PPTs that can be used for chronic pain management was presented to participants (yes/no). From the 1433 participants, 85.5% reported using at least one PPT. Hot–cold therapies (43.4%), exercise (41.9%), and meditation (35.2%) were the most frequently used PPTs, but most popular PPTs were not the same among women and men. Women reported a significantly higher use of PPTs in general (87.2% vs 77.2%; P < 0.001). Multivariable and interaction analyses showed that identifying as a man decreased the odds of reporting the use of PPTs (odds ratio: 0.32, 95% confidence interval: 0.11-0.92) but only among participants who scored high on both masculine and feminine personality traits (those classified as androgynous). The high prevalence of PPTs use found in our study is positive. Our results are relevant for a more personalized promotion of PPTs for chronic pain management.
GRAIL gene knockout mice protect against aging-related and noise-induced hearing loss
Authors: Chuang Kai-Fen , Wang Chih-Hung , Chen Hang-Kang , Lin Yuan-Yung , Lin Chia-Hsin , Lin Yi-Chun , Shih Cheng-Ping , Kuo Chao-Yin , Chen Ying-Chuan , Chen Hsin-Chien
Published: October 2023

Background:

Hearing loss is a global health issue and its etiopathologies involve complex molecular pathways. The ubiquitin-proteasome system has been reported to be associated with cochlear development and hearing loss. The gene related to anergy in lymphocytes (GRAIL), as an E3 ubiquitin ligase, has not, as yet, been examined in aging-related and noise-induced hearing loss mice models.

Methods:

This study used wild-type (WT) and GRAIL knockout (KO) mice to examine cochlear hair cells and synaptic ribbons using immunofluorescence staining. The hearing in WT and KO mice was detected using auditory brainstem response. Gene expression patterns were compared using RNA-sequencing to identify potential targets during the pathogenesis of noise-induced hearing loss in WT and KO mice.

Results:

At the 12-month follow-up, GRAIL KO mice had significantly less elevation in threshold level and immunofluorescence staining showed less loss of outer hair cells and synaptic ribbons in the hook region compared with GRAIL WT mice. At days 1, 14, and 28 after noise exposure, GRAIL KO mice had significantly less elevation in threshold level than WT mice. After noise exposure, GRAIL KO mice showed less loss of outer hair cells in the cochlear hook and basal regions compared with WT mice. Moreover, immunofluorescence staining showed less loss of synaptic ribbons in the hook regions of GRAIL KO mice than of WT mice. RNA-seq analysis results showed significant differences in C-C motif chemokine ligand 19 (CCL19), C-C motif chemokine ligand 21 (CCL21), interleukin 25 (IL25), glutathione peroxidase 6 (GPX6), and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase 1 (NOX1) genes after noise exposure.

Conclusion:

The present data demonstrated that GRAIL deficiency protects against aging-related and noise-induced hearing loss. The mechanism involved needs to be further clarified from the potential association with synaptic modulation, inflammation, and oxidative stress.
Newborn cytomegalovirus screening: is this the new standard?
Authors: Gantt Soren
Published: October 2023

Purpose of review

Congenital cytomegalovirus infection (cCMV) is a major cause of childhood hearing loss and neurodevelopmental delay. Early identification of cCMV allows for interventions that improve outcomes, particularly for cCMV-related hearing loss that develops in early childhood. Most cCMV is asymptomatic at birth and is rarely diagnosed without newborn screening. Therefore, various approaches to cCMV screening are increasingly being adopted.

Recent findings

Both universal screening (testing all newborns) and targeted screening (testing triggered by failed hearing screening) for cCMV appear valuable, feasible and cost-effective, though universal screening is predicted to have greatest potential overall benefits. CMV PCR testing of newborn oral swabs is sensitive and practical and is therefore widely used in targeted screening programs. In contrast, PCR using dried-blood spots (DBS) is less sensitive but was adopted by current universal cCMV screening initiatives because DBS are already collected from all newborns in high-income countries, which circumvents large-scale oral swab collection.

Targeted screening is widely recommended as standard of care, while universal screening is less common but is progressively considered as the optimal strategy for identification of children with cCMV. As with all screening programs, cCMV screening requires commitments to equitable and reliable testing, follow-up and services.
A massive primary congenital mesoblastic nephroma was successfully managed through open total nephrectomy: a case report
Authors: Samha Raghad , Mansour Marah , AlAwad Yara , Almaalouli Bsher , Mayhoob Reema , Al Sabbagh Aliaa , Aljundi Rama , Barakat Ali
Published: October 2023

Background:

Congenital mesoblastic nephroma is the most common renal tumor in children under the age of 6 months, comprising 3–10% of all kidney tumors in children. It is a rare and mostly benign tumor. It divides into cellular, classic, and mixed subtypes. It is typically detected in the third trimester of pregnancy using ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging. The best treatment is surgically by completely removing the tumor.

Case presentation:

We reported a case of a one-day-old female who was born at 31 weeks gestation weighing 1670 g. Preterm labor was due to polyhydramnios, which was diagnosed predelivery. A large mass was detected in the left hypochondrium using computerized tomography, total nephrectomy was performed, and the histopathological examination of the specimen confirmed the diagnosis of congenital mesoblastic nephroma.

Clinical discussion and conclusion:

Early polyhydramnios could be the most significant sign of renal tumors in infants, especially congenital mesoblastic nephroma.
Identifying the Mental Health Effects of Cumulative Traumatic Exposure in HIV-Affected Youth: A Longitudinal Assessment
Authors: Morrison Corey A. , Corbeil Thomas , Kluisza Luke , Poku Ohemaa , Liotta Lucy , Attoh Okine Naa-Djama , Dolezal Curtis , Wiznia Andrew , Abrams Elaine J. , Robbins Reuben N. , Mellins Claude A.
Published: October 2023

Introduction:

Traumatic events (TEs) in early life can precede adult psychopathology. Limited research exists on this relationship in young adults with perinatally acquired HIV-infection (PHIV) or perinatal HIV-exposure without infection (PHEU), who often experience social and health disparities. This study examined TEs experienced in childhood/adolescence and their association with psychiatric and substance use disorders in young adults with PHIV and PHEU.

Methods:

Participants in a New York City–based longitudinal cohort study were assessed for TE exposure at enrollment (mean age = 12 years) and the first 2 follow-up interviews. Past-year psychiatric and substance use disorders were evaluated via psychiatric interview (DISC-IV) at the fifth follow-up interview (mean age = 22 years). Unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression models assessed associations between cumulative childhood/adolescence TEs and young adult psychiatric and substance use outcomes. Group differences were tested for PHIV and PHEU subgroups.

Results:

Among 236 participants (60% Black, 51% Latinx), mean cumulative traumatic event count was 3.09 (SD = 1.77); 26% had a past-year psychiatric diagnosis, and 28% had a past-year substance use diagnosis. Increased TEs were associated with past-year psychiatric diagnoses in young adulthood [average marginal effects (AME) 4.21, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.83 to 7.58]; for PHEU participants, increased TEs were associated with a past-year substance use disorder (AME 15.67, 95% CI: 8.08 to 23.25).

Conclusions:

High levels of TEs in childhood/adolescence may contribute to psychiatric and substance use disorders in young adults with PHIV or PHEU. Research exploring relationships between TE exposure and later psychiatric problems is needed to inform interventions for HIV-affected youth.
The role of interoperability and inter-side benefits on merchants' e-wallet adoption: the case of Peruvian nanostores
Authors: Libaque-Saenz Christian Fernando , Ortega Claudio , Rodriguez-Serra Michelle , Chong Mario , Lopez-Puente-de-la-Vega Salvador
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Although e-wallet adoption has grown in recent years, there are some countries like Peru with low penetration rates. Contrary to prior studies that focused on customers' adoption of e-wallets, this study focuses on merchants' adoption to fully understand the use of these services. Additionally, considering that e-wallets are two-sided markets with the co-existence of two distinct economic agents (customer and merchants) interacting through these platforms, this study is the first to assess the dynamics of inter-side benefits from the merchants' perspective. Finally, interoperability was also included to determine its role in countries where the interaction between different e-wallets is limited.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on two-sided markets and social cognitive theory, a model was proposed including merchants' perceived benefits associated with the use of e-wallets, for them and for their customers (inter-side). Additionally, technical issues such as interoperability were measured. Data were collected from nanostore owners in Lima in 2022. A structural equation modeling technique was used to determine the impact of both types of benefits and technical features on merchants' adoption of e-wallets. Finally, a polynomial regression with response surface methodology was used to assess the interaction of the benefits for both sides of the platform from the merchants' perspective.

Findings

The two-sided-market features of e-wallets were validated. From merchants' view, the use of these platforms is the result of balancing the benefits for them and for their customers, and the interaction between these two types of benefits varies according to the socio-economic level in which the nanostore operates. Additionally, interoperability was found to be important for merchants, so future policies should commit to achieve an ecosystem that facilitates the interoperability not only among e-wallets but also between e-wallets and third-party services. Finally, since service availability is also important for merchants, e-wallet providers should invest in improving their infrastructure's scalability.

Originality/value

Prior studies have mainly focused on the customer side of e-wallets, with little research about the adoption of digital payment methods by the merchant side. In addition, no study has focused on the effect of one of the sides of the platform on the other side (inter-side benefits) when adopting these services. Finally, the effect of interoperability across platforms has not been addressed in detail yet. This study aims to fill these gaps by proposing a framework to understand the adoption of these services by merchants in terms of inter-side benefits and technical issues.
Visitors' experiences of UNESCO World Heritage Site: evidence from Göbeklitepe, Türkiye
Authors: Nguyen Thi Hong Hai , Ağbay Nurullah Cihan , Çakar Kadir
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This study seeks to investigate and discuss the heritage experiences of both domestic and international visitors at Göbeklitepe UNESCO World Heritage Site in Türkiye.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative research approach was adopted in the current study. TripAdvisor's comments and reviews of both domestic (n = 519) and international (n = 186) visitors regarding their visits to Göbeklitepe were collected. The data were then subjected to content analysis by MAXQDA as qualitative data analysis software. Additionally, an abductive research approach, which consisted of three stages, was implemented for data analysis.

Findings

The three aspects of visitor experiences at Göbeklitepe, including cognitive, emotional and relational experiences were found and discussed. Additionally, commonalities and differences among domestic and international visitors in terms of the heritage experience they gained from their visit to Göbeklitepe were revealed and analyzed.

Practical implications

Based on the findings regarding the main aspects of heritage experiences at Göbeklitepe, including cognitive, emotional and relational experiences, site managers and destination marketers can create effective marketing strategies that focus on those characteristics to attract visitors to the site. Moreover, the study can guide destination marketers to develop targeted marketing campaigns that highlight the different historical and religious significance of the site for both groups of domestic and international visitors.

Originality/value

First, the study affirms that Göbeklitepe is an important and impressive cultural heritage site due to its historical significance to both domestic and international visitors. It also strengthens the multifaceted nature of heritage experiences. Especially, the evidence of relational heritage experiences, including the connectedness to heritage and the sense of belonging to the visitor community, enriches the literature of heritage experience in this regard.
Impact of social influence on construction workers' intention-to-use exoskeletons
Authors: Gonsalves Nihar , Afolabi Adedeji , Akanmu Abiola Abosede
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Low back disorder is one of the most prevalent and costly injuries in the construction industry. Back-support exoskeletons are increasingly perceived as promising solutions. However, the intended benefits of exoskeletons may not be realized if intention-to-use the device is low. Social influence could increase intention-to-use exoskeletons. This study aims to evaluate the impact of social influence on construction workers' intention-to-use back-support exoskeletons.

Design/methodology/approach

A field study involving 37 construction workers was conducted, with workers who used exoskeleton for one week, and their peers and supervisors. Data were collected using questionnaires and semi-structured interviews, and analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis, respectively.

Findings

The workers felt that the exoskeleton is easy to use and the functions are well integrated. Workers' intention-to-use exoskeleton was mainly influenced by employers providing and requiring the use of the device. The attitude of the workers and the perception of peers and supervisors did not have a significant impact on workers' intention-to-use exoskeleton, whereas the subjective norm of construction workers had a positive impact on the intention-to-use exoskeletons.

Research limitations/implications

The study involved only 37 workers, including 15 workers who used the exoskeleton, and 14 peers and 8 supervisors of the workers.

Originality/value

This study contributes to existing knowledge on the influence of social influence on intention-to-use exoskeletons. The study also highlights how exoskeleton designs and the construction workplace can influence behavioral intention-to-use exoskeletons.
Is dirt cheap? The economic costs of failing to meet soil health requirements on smallholder farms
Authors: Gourlay Sydney , Kilic Talip
Published: October 2023

Agricultural productivity is hindered in smallholder farming systems due to several factors, including farmers’ inability to meet crop‐specific soil requirements. This article focuses on soil suitability for maize production and creates multidimensional soil suitability profiles of smallholder maize plots in Uganda while quantifying forgone production due to cultivation on less‐than‐suitable land and identifying groups of farmers that are disproportionately impacted. The analysis leverages the unique socioeconomic data from a subnational survey conducted in Eastern Uganda, inclusive of plot‐level, objective measures of maize yields and soil attributes. Stochastic frontier models of maize yields are estimated within each soil suitability class to understand differences in returns to inputs, technical efficiency, and potential yield. Farmers cultivating highly suitable soil have the potential to increase their observed yields by as much as 86%, while those at the opposite end of the suitability distribution (i.e., with marginally suitable land) operate closer to the production frontier and can only increase yields by up to 59%, given the current technology set. There is heterogeneity in potential gains across the wealth distribution, with poorer households facing more heavily constrained potential.
Is imiquimod a promising drug to treat oral mucosa diseases? A scoping review and new perspectives
Authors: de Mello Palma Victor , Frank Luiza Abrahão , Balinha Daiana Moraes , Rados Pantelis Varvaki , Pohlmann Adriana Raffin , Guterres Silvia Stanisçuaski , Visioli Fernanda
Published: October 2023

Imiquimod (IMQ) is a chemotherapeutic and immunostimulant drug that is applied topically, demonstrating antitumor and antiviral activities. The objective of this review was to compile data on the off‐label use of IMQ in oral mucosal diseases. IMQ has exhibited effectiveness in the treatment of various oral mucosal conditions, including oral carcinogenic lesions, neoplasms, HPV‐related lesions and autoimmune disorders. Although IMQ holds promise as a potential strategy for addressing oral mucosal lesions, it is important to note that significant side effects have been frequently reported. Nonetheless, it is crucial to develop and test new technological systems, such as the combination of nanotechnology with innovative drug delivery platforms. These advancements aim to minimize side effects and prolong the drug's contact time with the mucosa, preventing its removal by salivary flow.
Measurement errors in popular night lights data may bias estimated impacts of economic sanctions: Evidence from closing the Kaesong Industrial Zone
Authors: Kim Bonggeun , Gibson John , Boe‐Gibson Geua
Published: October 2023

Satellite‐detected night lights data are widely used to evaluate economic impacts of sanctions. Such data should be free from political manipulation. However, measurement errors in these data, from blurring and bottom‐coding, are rarely considered. To study such errors, we use a difference‐in‐differences analysis of impacts of closing the Kaesong Industrial Zone in North Korea—a sanction South Korea imposed in 2016. Luminosity in the affected region declined by a precisely estimated 50 percent. When using the popular Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP) night lights data the apparent impacts are imprecisely estimated and far smaller. Measurement errors in DMSP data may distort evaluations of sanctions.
Experimental sickness reduces hypocretin receptor 1 expression in the lateral hypothalamus and ventral tegmental area of female mice
Authors: Kolmos Mie Gunni , Arribas Alba Pérez , Kornum Birgitte Rahbek , Justinussen Jessica Lauren
Published: October 2023

Recent studies have focused on how sickness behaviours, including lethargy, are coordinated in the brain in response to peripheral infections. Decreased hypocretin (orexin) signalling is associated with lethargy and previous research suggests that hypocretin signalling is downregulated during sickness. However, there are studies that find increases or no change in hypocretin signalling during sickness. It is further unknown whether hypocretin receptor expression changes during sickness. Using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to induce sickness in female mice, we investigated how LPS‐injection affects gene expression of hypocretin receptors and prepro‐hypocretin as well as hypocretin‐1 peptide concentrations in brain tissue. We found that hypocretin receptor 1 gene expression was downregulated during sickness in the lateral hypothalamus and ventral tegmental area, but not in the dorsal raphe nucleus or locus coeruleus. We found no changes in hypocretin receptor 2 expression. Using a gene expression calculation that accounts for primer efficiencies and multiple endogenous controls, we were unable to detect changes in prepro‐hypocretin expression. Using radioimmunoassay, we found no change in hypocretin‐1 peptide in rostral brain tissue. Our results indicate that hypocretin receptor expression can fluctuate during sickness, adding an additional level of complexity to understanding hypocretin signalling during sickness.
Exploring the influence of uncontrolled social media use, fear of missing out, fear of better options, and fear of doing anything on consumer purchase intent
Authors: Flecha Ortiz José A. , Santos Corrada María , Perez Stephanie , Dones Virgin , Rodriguez Luis H.
Published: October 2023

The rapid evolution of the digital era has resulted in new theoretical models that seek answers to consumer behavior, but only some have been empirically validated. The social theory of fear of (FO) has gained notoriety as a type of social anxiety, resulting in psychological dependence on social media (SNS). These social anxieties transcend and are used as strategic resources to activate quick consumer responses. However, three forces act in the study of FO that positively or negatively impact decision‐making: (a) fear of missing out (FoMO), (b) fear of better options (FoBO), and (c) fear of doing anything (FoDA). The literature has analyzed the positive implications of FoMO on consumers' decision‐making from different perspectives, but there needs to be a gap in analyzing how FoMO affects consumers. More analysis of the forces that affect decision‐making through FoBO and FoDA acts is needed. Consequently, this study examined how the FoMO, FoBO, and FoDA affect the purchase intention of SNS users. The roles of SNS usage and anticipated emotions as forces that trigger FO were analyzed. Finally, we examined whether motivation to participate in social media is a force that can moderate how consumers trigger FO. An electronic survey of 543 participants and active social media users revealed that social media use, anticipated emotions, and motivation to participate are forces that explain how they trigger FO through their first‐stage FoMO on consumers. The results reflect theoretical and practical implications by concluding that the FoMO for marketing purposes is significant in decision‐making. However, FoBO and FoDA inhibit the consumer's ability to commit to a decision.
Translation and validation of the Japanese version of the Birth Satisfaction Scale‐Revised
Authors: Tezuka Aya , Hiroyama Natsuko , Suzuki Miwa , Matsuoka Megumi , Martin Caroline J. Hollins , Martin Colin R.
Published: October 2023

Aim

This study aimed to develop a Japanese version of the Birth Satisfaction Scale‐Revised and evaluate its reliability and validity.

Methods

After translating the Birth Satisfaction Scale‐Revised into Japanese, we conducted an Internet‐based cross‐sectional study with 445 Japanese‐speaking women within 2 months of childbirth. Of these, 98 participated in the retest 1 month later. Data were analyzed using the COSMIN study design checklist for patient‐reported outcome measurement instruments. Content validity was evaluated through cognitive debriefing during the translation process into Japanese. Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted to verify structural and cross‐cultural validities. For hypothesis testing, we tested correlations with existing measures for convergent and divergent validities, and for known‐group discriminant validity, we made comparisons between types of childbirth. Internal consistency was calculated using Cronbach's α, and test–retest reliability was evaluated using the intraclass correlation coefficient.

Results

For the Japanese‐Birth Satisfaction Scale‐Revised, the established three‐factor model fit poorly, whereas the four‐factor model fit better. Full metric invariance was observed in both the nulliparous and multiparous groups. Good convergent, divergent, and known‐group discriminant validities and test–retest reliability were established. Internal consistency observations were suboptimal; however for vaginal childbirth, the Cronbach's α of the total score was .71.

Conclusions

The Japanese‐Birth Satisfaction Scale‐Revised is a valid and reliable scale, with the exception of internal consistency that requires further investigation. If limited to vaginal childbirth, research, clinical applications, and international comparisons can be drawn.
Learning Putonghua, (not) becoming Chinese: “Sinicized” figures and intersectional personae on Tibetan peripheries
Authors: Schutte Ke Xiao
Published: October 2023

Few Sino‐Tibetan bilingualisms are celebrated in Amdo Tibet. Registers like “mixed language,” “peasant language,” and vernacular Mandarins are denounced through their perceived association with Chinese colonial influence. However, Putonghua‐Tibetan “bilinguals” are revered among the same demographic. When Tibetan and Chinese language communities intersect each other, a concern for many arises as to how one calibrates one's own “bi‐ness” as a Tibetan bilingual. In this paper, I explore how “Sinicized” figures are configurated for Tibetans. I argue that language works in many ways to disrupt previously stable ethnoracial identities as well as to mediate ethnoracial alignment or a lack thereof. Intersectional personae—binding intersections of linguistic repertoires with biographic fractals like gender, class, race/ethnicity, sexuality, profession, and many more—personify such disruptions for users of languages. I also describe the affective motion—or ethnoracialized anxieties and aspirations— in adopting or sidestepping these intersectional personae for a population that feel they are going through racialization (for different publics) in many aspects of their lives. Attending to intra‐ethnoracial evaluations, I also delineate and compare vernacular colonialism and Putonghua colonialism in showing that “same but different” registers might be a vantage point to a more empirical understanding of Sino‐ as well as other forms of colonialism.