bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tactical capacity planning under uncertainty – a capacity limitation analysis
Authors: Winzer Hendrik , Stevik Tor Kristian , Lilja Kaspar Akilles , Seljevold Therese , Scholderer Joachim
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Tactical capacity planning is crucial when hospitals must cope with substantial changes in patient requirements, as recently experienced during the Covid-19 pandemic. However, there is only little understanding of the nature of capacity limitations in a hospital, which is essential for effective tactical capacity planning.

Design/methodology/approach

We report a detailed analysis of capacity limitations at a Norwegian tertiary public hospital and conducted 22 in-depth interviews. The informants participated in capacity planning and decision-making during the Covid-19 pandemic. Data are clustered into categories of capacity limitations and a correspondence analysis provides additional insights.

Findings

Personnel and information were the most mentioned types of capacity limitations, and middle management and organizational functions providing specialized treatment felt most exposed to capacity limitations. Further analysis reveals that capacity limitations are dynamic and vary across hierarchical levels and organizational functions.

Research limitations/implications

Future research on tactical capacity planning should take interdisciplinary patient pathways better into account as capacity limitations are dynamic and systematically different for organizational functions and hierarchical levels.

Practical implications

We argue that our study possesses common characteristics of tertiary public hospitals, including professional silos and fragmentation of responsibilities along patient pathways. Therefore, we recommend operations managers in hospitals to focus more on intra-organizational information flows to increase the agility of their organization.

Originality/value

Our detailed capacity limitation analysis at a tertiary public hospital in Norway during the Covid-19 pandemic provides novel insights into the nature of capacity limitations, which may enhance tactical capacity planning.
The role of influencers and social comparison in shaping travel intentions
Authors: Wahba Sarah , El-Deeb Sara , Metry Sandra
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study draws on social influence and social comparison theories to investigate the effect of social media influencers on intention to visit with the mediating role of upward social comparison. It studies the reasons underlying people's intention to visit a destination from an emotional perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

PLS-SEM models were applied to a total of 527 responses.

Findings

This study provides empirical evidence supporting the Source Credibility Model's elements within the context of influencer marketing and travel intentions. Furthermore, it expands the current knowledge of upward social comparison emotions by reporting that upward contrastive emotions would partially mediate the relationship between expertise and intention to visit, and that upward assimilative emotions would fully mediate the relationship between attractiveness and intention to visit while partially mediating the relationship between trustworthiness and expertise and intention to visit.

Practical implications

The article adds new insights to tourism marketing as well as helps both destination marketers and travel influencers. For marketers, it is advised to collaborate with credible influencers known for expertise and trustworthiness, leveraging their perspectives to rebuild travel confidence and reassure tourists about safety measures. Travel influencers are recommended to convey their intrinsic passion and enthusiasm through their posts to create an inspiring connection with the audiences.

Originality/value

This paper is the first to address the relationship between travel influencers and intention to visit with the mediation role of both positive and negative emotions.
Linking manufacturing firms with environment: role of green manufacturing and environmental management on firm’s environmental performance with moderating effect of external environmental regulations
Authors: Nazir Samera , Mehmood Saqib , Nazir Zarish , Zhaolei Li
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the vital link between manufacturing firms and the environment, delving into the intricate connections among factors affecting these firms. Specifically, it investigates how the environmental performance of manufacturing firms is shaped by their adoption of environmental management practices and the regulatory environment in which they operate.

Design/methodology/approach

Data are currently being collected through a structured questionnaire from employees working in manufacturing firms in Pakistan. Random sampling was used to select the participants. The hypotheses were tested using PLS-SEM analysis.

Findings

The study reveals a positive correlation between green manufacturing practices and superior environmental performance. Effective environmental management systems further help firms reduce their environmental footprint. External environmental regulations play a significant role as moderators, influencing the strength and direction of the relationship between green manufacturing, environmental management and environmental performance.

Practical implications

The practical implications offer valuable insights and guidance for manufacturing companies seeking to improve their environmental responsibility and performance. Additionally, policymakers gain insights into how regulatory frameworks can be designed or modified to better support sustainability efforts within the manufacturing sector.

Originality/value

This study offers timely insights for sustainable business practices, aligning with corporate responsibility efforts. It contributes to both academic knowledge and provides actionable guidance for fostering environmentally responsible practices in the manufacturing sector.
Uses of black pigmented CAS glass in conventional ceramic industry: production, impediments to metallization, and startling approaches for color evaluation in ceramic tech-artistry
Authors: Acharjee Nandalal , Ganguly Subhas , Biswas Prasenjit , Sarangi Bidyapati
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to develop black pigmented ceramic stoneware bodies that integrate various aspects of material composition and color potential. Recent research has explored black pigmented calcium aluminosilicate glass (BPCG), a specialized material known for its unique properties, which holds promise for transforming the color capabilities of traditional ceramics.

Design/methodology/approach

In this investigation, initially composite ceramic sample (B-1) was prepared by milling process prior to sieve analysis to attain the particle size within 44 microns. Microanalysis and morphology and thermography were studied by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope and thermogravimetric analysis and found Sample-B-1 received attractive properties like firing shrinkage, porosity, bulk density and firing strength along with good pyro-plastic properties at various temperatures like 950°C, 1050°C, 1000°C and 1180°C. Furthermore, BPCG-assisted pigmented ceramic composites were synthesized with B-1 matrix. CIE lab investigation of the attributed composites (C-series) within selective soaking range of 5–20 min was performed, and the investigation found that prominent black hue appeared (L: 24.09, a*: −0.17, b*: −0.49) for C-10 containing appeared phases of Di-Co-Silicide (26%), Ni-Chromite, Stilpnomelane (rich in iron) as obtained by X-ray diffraction studies.

Findings

Ceramic material played a significant role in the realms of art and craft, as well as in technology. The artistic facet reveals concepts or ornamentation, while the craft echoes both traditional and functional appeal. Technology, on the other hand, involves the logical implementation behind the creation.

Originality/value

This C-10 Sample comprised the lower percentage of mullite which attributed that the BPCG homogeneously mixed in the matrix of base (B-1) and appeared as spinal staff. Therefore, BPCG was a potential candidate for ceramic metallization, and this traditional metallization processes often faced some challenges like uniformity and mixing in the ceramic composite domain practices. This study aimed to open up new avenues for artistic decoration and bridging the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern technology. Furthermore, BPCG’s role in color assessment through shocking techniques added an exciting concept for the ceramic practitioners, designers or ceramic educators.
Distributed fault estimation of nonlinear dynamical systems over sensor networks: a non-fragile approach
Authors: Tian Shihui , Xu Ke
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the fault estimation issue of nonlinear dynamical systems via distributed sensor networks. Furthermore, based on the communication topology of sensor networks, the nonfragile design strategy considering the gain fluctuation is also adopted for distributed fault estimators.

Design/methodology/approach

By means of intensive dynamical model transformation, sufficient conditions with disturbance attenuation performance are established to design desired fault estimator gains with the help of convex optimization.

Findings

A novel distributed fault estimation framework for a class of nonlinear dynamical systems is established over a set of distributed sensor networks, where sampled data of sensor nodes via local information exchanges can be used for more efficiency.

Originality/value

The proposed distributed fault estimator gain fluctuations are taken into account for the nonfragile strategy, such that the distributed fault estimators are more applicable for practical sensor networks implementations. In addition, an illustrative example with simulation results are provided to validate the effectiveness and applicableness of the developed distributed fault estimation technique.
Spot pattern welding scanning strategy for sensor embedding and residual stress reduction in laser-foil-printing additive manufacturing
Authors: Turk Tunay , Dominguez Cesar E. , Sutton Austin T. , Bernardin John D. , Park Jonghyun , Leu Ming C.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to present spot pattern welding (SPW) as a scanning strategy for laser-foil-printing (LFP) additive manufacturing (AM) in place of the previously used continuous pattern welding (CPW) (line-raster scanning). The SPW strategy involves generating a sequence of overlapping spot welds on the metal foil, allowing the laser to form dense and uniform weld beads. This in turn reduces thermal gradients, promotes material consolidation and helps mitigate process-related risks such as thermal cracking, porosity, keyholing and Marangoni effects.

Design/methodology/approach

304L stainless steel (SS) feedstock is used to fabricate test specimens using the LFP system. Imaging techniques are used to examine the melt pool dimensions and layer bonding. In addition, the parts are evaluated for residual stresses, mechanical strength and grain size.

Findings

Compared to CPW, SPW provides a more reliable heating/cooling relationship that is less dependent on part geometry. The overlapping spot welds distribute heat more evenly, minimizing the risk of elevated temperatures during the AM process. In addition, the resulting dense and uniform weld beads contribute to lower residual stresses in the printed part.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to thoroughly investigate SPW as a scanning strategy using the LFP process. In general, SPW presents a promising strategy for securing embedded sensors into LFP parts while minimizing residual stresses.
Investigating the barriers and strategies for establishing desalination plants to mitigate water scarcity in Sri Lankan dry zones
Authors: Yatawatta Yatawattage Jayanie Malkila , Sridarran Pournima
Published: September 2024

Purpose

In response to water scarcity in Sri Lanka, the government is implementing strategies such as rainwater harvesting, efficient irrigation, wastewater treatment and desalination. Initial efforts include the establishment of a desalination plant in Jaffna, with additional plans for the dry zones (DZ). The study aims to comprehensively identify the barriers to establishing desalination plants in the DZ and provide recommendations to mitigate these barriers. Additionally, this research provides valuable insights aimed at minimizing barriers to the construction of future desalination plants within Sri Lanka.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used qualitative methods, using an expert survey to identify current and future barriers, along with strategies for overcoming them. The collected data were analysed using the template analysis technique.

Findings

Regarding desalination plant establishment, various barriers such as high capital costs, high energy expenses, brine discharge, pollution, emissions, technical challenges, health concerns and waste disposal have been identified. However, specific strategies exist to address and mitigate each of these obstacles.

Practical implications

The study offers recommendations to environmental experts and government on expediting the approval procedures for desalination plants in Sri Lanka’s DZ. Adapted to Sri Lanka’s specific challenges, it highlights strategies and barriers essential for upcoming desalination projects. Furthermore, it emphasizes the financial advantages such as increased production and job creation resulting from establishing desalination facilities.

Social implications

Through this study, promoting sustainable practices and fostering community involvement, it aims to enhance livelihoods, accelerate economic development and improve overall well-being through reliable access to water. Additionally, the study aims to enhance understanding of the importance of desalination in alleviating water scarcity, promoting community engagement and ultimately facilitating improved living conditions, health outcomes and economic opportunities in Sri Lanka’s DZs.

Originality/value

This study provides crucial direction for decision-makers by highlighting the main barriers to the establishment of desalination plants in Sri Lanka and outlining practical solutions. Implementing these strategies helps meet the region’s increasing water demands, advance sustainable water management, improve the standard of living for nearby communities and promote the socioeconomic development of desalination plants in Sri Lanka’s DZ.
Clinical and laboratory features between anti‐TIF1γ dermatomyositis with and without malignancy: 37 case series and a review
Authors: Tang Ke‐yun , Zhang Han‐lin , Zhang Xin‐yi , Jin Hong‐zhong
Published: September 2024

We aimed to analyze the clinical profile and malignancy indicators in dermatomyositis (DM) with anti‐transcriptional intermediary factor 1 antibody (anti‐TIF1γ‐Ab). A comparison was made between clinical information of anti‐TIF1γ DM patients with and without malignancy. Additionally, a review of the literature on anti‐TIF1γ DM and malignancy was conducted by searching PubMed and EMBASE databases. In our cohort of 37 patients, 27.0% (10/37) developed malignancy. The timeframe during which these 10 patients developed malignancy ranged from 21 months prior to the diagnosis of DM to 36 months following the diagnosis of DM. Specifically, one patient was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 36. Comparing the groups with and without malignancy, we found that age over 65 years (40% vs 7.4%, P = 0.035), a shorter duration from the onset of symptoms to the diagnosis of DM (2.5 vs 10 months, P = 0.003), and higher erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) levels (23 vs 10 mm/h, P = 0.048) were found to be associated with an increased risk of malignancy. Conversely, the presence of Gottron's papules (63% vs 20%, P = 0.029) may suggest a lower likelihood of malignancy. The literature review revealed that the prevalence of myositis‐associated malignancy was 40.7% (340/836), with variations ranging from 19% to 82.9% across different series. In summary, factors such as age over 65 years, a shorter duration between symptom onset and diagnosis of DM, and elevated ESR levels may indicate an increased risk of malignancy in anti‐TIF1γ DM patients.
Contribution of machine learning for subspecies identification from Mycobacterium abscessus with MALDI‐TOF MS in solid and liquid media
Authors: Godmer Alexandre , Bigey Lise , Giai‐Gianetto Quentin , Pierrat Gautier , Mohammad Noshine , Mougari Faiza , Piarroux Renaud , Veziris Nicolas , Aubry Alexandra
Published: September 2024

Mycobacterium abscessus (MABS) displays differential subspecies susceptibility to macrolides. Thus, identifying MABS's subspecies (M. abscessus, M. bolletii and M. massiliense) is a clinical necessity for guiding treatment decisions. We aimed to assess the potential of Machine Learning (ML)‐based classifiers coupled to Matrix‐Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time‐of‐Flight (MALDI‐TOF) MS to identify MABS subspecies. Two spectral databases were created by using 40 confirmed MABS strains. Spectra were obtained by using MALDI‐TOF MS from strains cultivated on solid (Columbia Blood Agar, CBA) or liquid (MGIT®) media for 1 to 13 days. Each database was divided into a dataset for ML‐based pipeline development and a dataset to assess the performance. An in‐house programme was developed to identify discriminant peaks specific to each subspecies. The peak‐based approach successfully distinguished M. massiliense from the other subspecies for strains grown on CBA. The ML approach achieved 100% accuracy for subspecies identification on CBA, falling to 77.5% on MGIT®. This study validates the usefulness of ML, in particular the Random Forest algorithm, to discriminate MABS subspecies by MALDI‐TOF MS. However, identification in MGIT®, a medium largely used in mycobacteriology laboratories, is not yet reliable and should be a development priority.
Psychosocial predictors of return to alcohol use after liver transplant: A multicenter cohort study
Authors: Torosian Kelly , Shahrvini Bita , Johnson Willie Mohammed , Vodkin Irine , Tincopa Monica , Lim Nicholas , Kwong Allison , Ajmera Veeral
Published: September 2024

Background

Alcohol use after liver transplant (LT) is associated with higher rates of graft loss and increased mortality; however, there are limited data evaluating predictors of return to alcohol use using biochemical markers like phosphatidylethanol (PEth).

Methods

This multicenter retrospective cohort study evaluated psychosocial predictors of return to alcohol use using PEth testing in patients transplanted for alcohol‐associated liver disease (ALD). The study included 223 patients at three centers who had received a LT for ALD and had at least one PEth measurement post‐LT.

Results

The rate of return to alcohol use was 6.9 cases per 100 person‐years (26 patients total) over a median 555 days of follow‐up after transplant. Younger age (HR 0.96; 95% CI 0.92–0.99, p = 0.02), mental health comorbidities (HR 2.83; 95% CI 1.25–6.39, p = 0.01), and non‐Hispanic White race (HR 3.79; 95% CI 1.42–10.15, p = 0.01) were associated with return to alcohol use post‐LT. There was no difference between post‐LT return to alcohol use rates or short‐term survival among patients with less than 6 months of sobriety prior to listing compared with those with more than 6 months. Patients with sustained alcohol use post‐LT had increased odds of history of illicit substance use (OR 5.20; 95% CI 1.01–26.83, p = 0.04) but no significant difference in time from the last drink to listing (OR 1.03; 95% CI 0.18–5.80, p = 0.97).

Conclusions

These findings emphasize the importance of mental health comorbidities rather than period of sobriety in predicting post‐LT return to alcohol use. Furthermore, the higher risk of return to alcohol use in non‐Hispanic White patients suggests a potential disparity with referral and selection of higher risk White patients.
Risk factors and recurrence of hyperemesis gravidarum: A population‐based record linkage cohort study
Authors: Pont Sarah , Bond Diana M. , Shand Antonia W. , Khan Iqra , Zoega Helga , Nassar Natasha
Published: September 2024

Introduction

There are limited contemporary population‐based studies on the risk factors for hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), a severe type of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and trend of HG over time, identify risk factors for any and multiple HG health service visits during pregnancy, and investigate HG recurrence across pregnancies.

Material and Methods

This population‐based record linkage cohort study featured births in New South Wales, Australia from 2010 to 2019. Hospital and emergency data collections were used to identify health service visits for HG using relevant diagnosis codes and were linked to the corresponding pregnancy on the birth data set. Outcomes included any HG and multiple HG visits during pregnancy, and HG recurrence across pregnancies. Annual HG prevalence was calculated, and negative binomial regression was used to examine standardized prevalence trends. Risk factors for any HG and multiple HG visits within a pregnancy were examined using Robust Poisson models with generalized estimating equations and Prentice–Williams–Peterson Gap Time models, respectively. Rates and risk of recurrence were calculated for women with a second and third pregnancy.

Results

Of the 955 107 pregnancies, 21 702 (2.3%) were classified as HG. There was an average annual increase of 6.8% (95% CI 5.3–8.3) in HG prevalence. Younger maternal age, multiple pregnancies, and selected preexisting conditions were associated with an increased risk of HG, with the strongest factor being HG in any previous pregnancy (risk ratio 8.92, 99% CI 8.43–9.44). Hyperemesis gravidarum recurrence at the second (28.9%) and third (54.7%) pregnancies was high.

Conclusions

Hyperemesis gravidarum history is the strongest risk factor for HG, which has implications for counseling and care that women receive around pregnancy.
Positive and negative touch differentially modulate metacognitive memory judgements for emotional stimuli
Authors: Convertino Gianmarco , Talbot Jessica , Stockner Mara , Gatti Daniele , Marchetti Michela , Mitaritonna Danilo , Mazzoni Giuliana
Published: September 2024

Touch plays a crucial role in providing humans with information from the external environment and can be perceived by humans as positively or negatively valenced. It is well documented that touch can differentially influence social functions, but very little is known about how touch can modulate (meta)cognition. Utilizing a within‐subject design, participants were exposed to (a) positive, (b) negative, and (c) no touch, alongside encoding of emotionally valenced (positive and negative) images. After a 20‐minute delay, participants completed a Yes/No recognition task to investigate how touch influenced memory‐related decision components (e.g. criterion, confidence). Results showed that, compared to the control condition, both positive and negative touch were associated with overall lower confidence ratings, a less liberal response bias and slower response times. Interestingly, for correct recognitions, only negative touch (vs. no touch) led to inappropriately lower confidence and slower response times while both confidence and response time remained unaltered in positive touch. Our findings provide the first evidence that positive and negative touch differentially interact with metacognitive memory‐related decisions. Altered metacognitive judgements after being touched could have significant consequences in applied settings, such as situations of eyewitness testimony.
Identification of TPI1 As a potential therapeutic target in pancreatic cancer with dependency of TP53 mutation using multi‐omics analysis
Authors: Toyoda Tomoaki , Miura Nami , Kato Shingo , Masuda Takeshi , Ohashi Ryuji , Matsushita Akira , Matsuda Fumio , Ohtsuki Sumio , Katakura Akira , Honda Kazufumi
Published: September 2024

Mutations of KRAS, CDKN2A, TP53, and SMAD4 are the four major driver genes for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), of which mutations of KRAS and TP53 are the most frequently recognized. However, molecular‐targeted therapies for mutations of KRAS and TP53 have not yet been developed. To identify novel molecular targets, we newly established organoids with the Kras mutation (KrasmuOR) and Trp53 loss of function using Cre transduction and CRISPR/Cas9 (Krasmu/p53muOR) from murine epithelia of the pancreatic duct in KrasLSL‐G12D mice, and then analyzed the proteomic and metabolomic profiles in both organoids by mass spectrometry. Hyperfunction of the glycolysis pathway was recognized in Krasmu/p53muOR compared with KrasmuOR. Loss of function of triosephosphate isomerase (TPI1), which is involved in glycolysis, induced a reduction of cell proliferation in human PDAC cell lines with the TP53 mutation, but not in PDAC or in human fibroblasts without TP53 mutation. The TP53 mutation is clinically recognized in 70% of patients with PDAC. In the present study, protein expression of TPI1 and nuclear accumulation of p53 were recognized in the same patients with PDAC. TPI1 is a potential candidate therapeutic target for PDAC with the TP53 mutation.
Plant species diversification in the Himalaya–Hengduan Mountains region: an example from an endemic lineage of Pedicularis (Orobanchaceae) in the role of floral specializations and rapid range expansions
Authors: Liu Rong , Wang Wei‐Jia , Wang Hong , Ree Richard H. , Li De‐Zhu , Yu Wen‐Bin
Published: September 2024

The c. 270 endemic species of Pedicularis in the Himalaya–Hengduan Mountains (HHM) region exhibit high diversity in geographic distribution, elevational range and floral morphology. Many of these, including the species with the longest corolla tubes and beaked galeas, are monophyletic and represent a putative in situ radiation. In this study, we focus on the representative Clade 3 within the HHM region. We integrate the plastid phylogeny of this clade with environmental data and species distributions to infer environmental correlates of species diversity. We estimate macroevolutionary rates and reconstructed ancestral states for geographic ranges and corolla traits, and analyse patterns of range overlap and niche evolution to assess drivers of diversification in the HHM region. Our results show that the region from northwest Yunnan to southwest Sichuan is the centre of diversity for this clade of Pedicularis. Rates of diversification are associated with precipitation and multiple environmental factors. Multiple range expansions from the Sanjiang (Three Parallel Rivers) region, followed by allopatric speciation across the HHM region, contributed to early rapid diversification. Corolla traits are not significantly associated with species diversification. This study highlights the importance of integrated evidence for understanding species diversification dynamics and contributes to our understanding of the origins of the remarkable richness of plant species in the HHM region.
High‐concentration hydrogen inhalation mitigates sepsis‐associated encephalopathy in mice by improving mitochondrial dynamics
Authors: Cui Yan , Meng Shuqi , Zhang Nannan , Liu Jingya , Zheng Lina , Ma Wanjie , Song Yu , Wang Zhiwei , Shen Yuehao , Liu Jianfeng , Xie Keliang
Published: September 2024

Background

Sepsis‐associated encephalopathy (SAE) is a neuronal injury with poor prognosis. Mitochondrial dysfunction is critical in SAE development, and hydrogen gas (H2) has a protective effect on septic mice. This study aimed to investigate the effect of high concentration (67%) of H2 on SAE and whether it is related to mitochondrial biogenesis and mitochondrial dynamics.

Methods

A mouse sepsis model was induced by cecal ligation and puncture. The mice inhalated 67% H2 for 1 h at 1 and 6 h post‐surgery, respectively. The 7‐day survival rate was recorded. Cognitive function was assessed using the Y‐maze test and Morris water maze test. Serum inflammatory factors, antioxidant enzymes, as well as mitochondrial function indexes including mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and ATP in the hippocampal tissue were evaluated 24 h after surgery. Mitochondrial dynamic proteins (DRP1 and MFN2) and biosynthetic proteins (PGC‐1α, NRF2, and TFAM) in the hippocampal tissue were detected. Moreover, the morphology of mitochondria was observed by transmission electron microscopy.

Results

Inhalation of 67% H2 improved the 7‐day survival rates and recognition memory function of septic mice, alleviated brain antioxidant enzyme activity (SOD and CAT), and reduced serum proinflammatory cytokine levels. H2 inhalation also enhanced the expression of MFN2 and mitochondrial biogenesis‐related factors (PGC‐1α, NRF2, and TFAM) and decreased the expression of fission protein (DRP1), leading to improvement in mitochondrial function, as evidenced by MMP and ATP levels.

Conclusions

Inhalation of high concentration (67%) of H2 in septic mice improved the survival rate and reduced neuronal injury. Its mechanism might be mediated by enhancing mitochondrial biogenesis and mitochondrial dynamics.
Whether coagulation dysfunction influences the onset and progression of diabetic peripheral neuropathy: A multicenter study in middle‐aged and aged patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Xie Jiali , Yu Xinyue , Chen Luowei , Cheng Yifan , Li Kezheng , Song Mengwan , Chen Yinuo , Feng Fei , Cai Yunlei , Tong Shuting , Qian Yuqin , Xu Yiting , Zhang Haiqin , Yang Junjie , Xu Zirui , Cui Can , Yu Huan , Deng Binbin
Published: September 2024

Background

Nearly half of patients with diabetes experience diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), resulting in a mere 53% survival rate within 3 years. Aberrations in coagulation function have been implicated in the pathogenesis of microvascular complications, prompting the need for a thorough investigation into its role as a contributing factor in the development and progression of DPN.

Methods

Data were gathered from 1211 type 2 diabetes patients admitted to five centers from September 2018 to October 2022 in China. DPN was evaluated by symptoms and electromyography. Motor and sensory nerve conduction velocity (NCV) was appraised and the NCV sum score was calculated for the median, ulnar, and peroneal motor or sensory nerves.

Results

Patients with DPN exhibited alterations in coagulation function. (i) Specifically, they exhibited prolonged thrombin time (p = 0.012), elevated fibrinogen (p < 0.001), and shortened activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT; p = 0.026) when compared to the control group. (ii) After accounting for potential confounders in linear regression, fibrinogen, and D‐dimer were negatively related to the motor NCV, motor amplitude values, and mean velocity and amplitude. Also, fibrinogen was associated with higher Michigan neuropathy screening instrument (MNSI) scores (β 0.140; p = 0.001). This result of fibrinogen can be validated in the validation cohort with 317 diabetic patients. (iii) Fibrinogen was independently associated with the risk of DPN (OR 1.172; p = 0.035). In the total age group, DPN occurred at a slower rate until the predicted fibrinogen level reached around 3.75 g/L, after which the risk sharply escalated.

Conclusions

Coagulation function is warranted to be concerned in patients with type 2 diabetes to predict and prevent the occurrence of DPN in clinical practice.
Risk Factors for Sinusoidal Obstruction Syndrome After Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in Children and Young Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Cui Kai , Chen Jie , Zhang Senlin , He ChenChen , Sun Shan , Li Jie
Published: September 2024

Objective and Background

Sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS) is a life‐threatening complication in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) patients. However, the related risk factors in pediatric and young adult HSCT recipients remain unclear. Thus, we conducted this meta‐analysis to identify potential risk factors for SOS in children and young adults undergoing HSCT.

Method

We acquired related articles through searching PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library up to May 31, 2024. We calculated odds ratios (ORs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to identify potential risk factors.

Results

A total of 12 studies with 7644 HSCT recipients were included. Bone marrow transplantation (OR = 1.35, 95% CI: 1.03–1.77, I2 = 0%), busulfan (BU) (OR = 3.63, 95% CI: 1.78–7.38, I2 = 70%), and fludarabine (FLU) (OR = 1.55, 95% CI: 1.09–2.21, I2 = 16%) were risk factors for SOS after HSCT in children and young adults.

Conclusion

Bone marrow transplantation and the use of BU or FLU might be risk factors for SOS after HSCT in children and young adults.
Characteristics of drug‐related deaths where individuals are found submerged in a bath or hot tub in the United Kingdom, 1997–2023
Authors: Roberts Emmert , Copeland Caroline , Darke Shane , Farrell Michael
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Recent media reports highlight that drug‐related fatalities can occur while individuals are immersed in water in domestic settings. We aimed to determine the case characteristics, circumstances of death and type of implicated drugs among individuals dying due to unintentional drug‐related causes found immersed in a bath or hot tub.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study in the United Kingdom using coronial records from the National Programme on Substance Abuse Deaths, 1997–2023. Information was available on decedent socio‐demographics, characteristics of death and drugs implicated in death.

Results

One hundred fifty‐six decedents were found immersed in the bath and six in a hot tub, a mean of 6.4 deaths per year (SD 3.7; range 1–13). Overall decedents were predominantly male (n = 94, 58.0%), of White ethnicity (n = 98, 60.5%) with a mean age of 40 years (SD 13; range 19–74). Only 12 decedents had any physical contributory factor to death other than poisoning or drowning. The median number of drugs detected at post‐mortem was 3 (interquartile range 2, 5) with multiple drug toxicity implicated in the majority of cases (n = 90, 55.6%). The most common implicated drugs were heroin (n = 53, 32.7%), alcohol (n = 46, 28.4%) and cocaine (n = 33, 20.4%).

Discussion and Conclusions

Over the last two decades in the United Kingdom there have been consistent numbers of unintentional drug‐related deaths each year where individuals were found in a bath or hot tub. Polysubstance, opioid and alcohol use are overrepresented. Targeted advice to avoid bathing while intoxicated would appear to be an appropriate harm reduction message.
S2k‐Leitlinie Lipödem
Authors: Faerber Gabriele , Cornely Manuel , Daubert Constance , Erbacher Gabriele , Fink Jodok , Hirsch Tobias , Mendoza Erika , Miller Anya , Rabe Eberhard , Rapprich Stefan , Reich‐Schupke Stefanie , Stücker Markus , Brenner Erich
Published: September 2024

Die vorliegende S2k‐Leitlinie wurde auf Initiative und unter Federführung der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Phlebologie und Lymphologie (DGPL) e.V. erstellt. Ihr Ziel ist es, die Diagnostik und Therapie des Lipödems zu optimieren. Sie soll die unterschiedlichen Herangehensweisen der jeweiligen Berufsgruppen konsensbasiert zusammenführen und damit ein Grundkonzept für die bestmögliche Behandlung von Patientinnen mit Lipödem bieten. Insgesamt wurden 60 Empfehlungen zu den Themenbereichen Diagnostik, konservative und chirurgische Therapieoptionen sowie psychosoziale Faktoren und Selbstmanagement formuliert und abgestimmt. Die Leitlinie soll den aktuellen Stand der Wissenschaft widerspiegeln und als Dokument für Diagnose‐ und Therapieempfehlungen bei Patientinnen mit Lipödem breite Anwendung finden.

Insbesondere nimmt die Leitlinie Stellung zu Diagnosekriterien, Differenzialdiagnosen und koinzidenten Krankheitsbildern sowie deren Einfluss auf Diagnose und Therapie, sinnvollen Therapiemaßnahmen und Möglichkeiten des Selbstmanagements. Die Leitlinie Lipödem fasst die aktuelle nationale und internationale Evidenz sowie den deutschen Expertenkonsens zusammen und leitet daraus Empfehlungen ab, die zu bestmöglicher Behandlung von Patientinnen mit Lipödem führen sollen. Die Empfehlungen verstehen sich als Orientierungshilfe im Sinne von Handlungs‐ und Entscheidungskorridoren, von denen in begründeten Fällen abgewichen werden kann.
Transferability of an executive function intervention in children with cerebral palsy: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Blasco Montse , García‐Galant María , Ballester‐Plané Júlia , Laporta‐Hoyos Olga , Caldú Xavier , Leiva David , Boyd Roslyn N. , Ortibus Els , Pueyo Roser ,   The Clinic Practice Group
Published: September 2024

Aim

To evaluate the transfer effects of a home‐based computerized executive function intervention on non‐targeted cognitive functions (visual perception and memory), quality of life (QoL), and participation in children with cerebral palsy (CP), and to determine whether any improvements were maintained 9 months after the intervention.

Method

Sixty children with CP (aged 8–12 years) were randomly allocated to the intervention (15 females/15 males, mean age 10 years 4 months [SD = 1 years 8 months], age range 8–12 years) or waitlist (control) (15 females/15 males, mean age 10 years [SD = 1 years 9 months], age range 8–12 years) group. The intervention group underwent a home‐based executive function intervention programme for 30 minutes per day, 5 days a week, for 12 weeks. All participants were assessed before the intervention, immediately after and 9 months after the intervention was completed.

Results

After the intervention was completed, performance in immediate verbal memory, verbal learning, and visual perception (object and picture recognition) was significantly better in the intervention group than in the waitlist (control) group. No improvements were found in visual memory, visuospatial perception, QoL, or participation after the intervention. Scores at the follow‐up showed that any beneficial effects were not maintained 9 months after the intervention was completed.

Interpretation

A home‐based computerized executive function intervention produced transfer effects on memory and visual perception immediately after the intervention in children with CP, although any beneficial effects were not sustained at the 9‐month follow‐up.
Shallow coverage in shallow waters: the incompleteness of intertidal species inventories in biodiversity database records
Authors: Thyrring Jakob , Peck Lloyd S. , Sejr Mikael K. , Węsławski Jan Marcin , Harley Christopher D. G. , Menegotto André
Published: September 2024

The availability of online biodiversity data has increased in recent decades, aiding our understanding of diversity patterns and species richness–environment relationships across temporal and spatial scales. However, even the most exhaustive databases are prone to sampling biases, which create knowledge gaps in species distributions and increase uncertainty in model predictions. Regarding marine environments, intertidal zones are globally distributed and considered early warning systems for climate change impacts and species' range shifts. Owing to their relative accessibility, intertidal records should – supposedly – be less incomplete and biased compared to open‐ocean and deep‐sea areas. Yet, the extent and coverage of intertidal records available in global biodiversity databases remains unknown. In this study, we used a high‐resolution worldwide tidal flat map to identify intertidal records of 11 563 benthic species from the OBIS (Ocean Biodiversity Information System) portal. Following a thorough data‐cleaning process, we evaluated geographic patterns in observed species richness, site accessibility, sampling effort, and inventory completeness across latitudes. We demonstrate that observed species richness has mid‐latitudinal peaks while the tropics accumulate species with missing records, similar to patterns described for the entire marine realm. These patterns correlate with disproportionate mid‐latitude sampling efforts and poor tropical sampling coverage. Sixty‐five percent of the mapped intertidal sites are located within 3 hours of a city, but sampling records remain almost absent along African Atlantic, South American Pacific, and Indo‐Pacific coasts. Thus, even for the accessible and well‐studied intertidal shorelines, database records are not free from geographical biases and their associated implications for biodiversity estimates. Our results highlight the need for a better data‐sharing culture, and we hope to encourage initiatives promoting more and better‐distributed research efforts on intertidal biodiversity, which could improve global scale detection and prediction of climate change impacts at regional and global scales.
Predation risk in a migratory butterfly increases southward along a latitudinal gradient
Authors: Stefanescu Constanti , Pla‐Narbona Clàudia , Ubach Andreu , Jarrett Crinan , Renelies‐Hamilton Justinn , Colom Pau
Published: September 2024

In migratory insects performing multigenerational migration, such as the painted lady butterfly Vanessa cardui, successive generations face a wide variety of predator communities and may be subject to different predation risks. Here, we analyze the pattern of wing damage of over 2000 butterflies to investigate, for the first time, the risk of predation of adult painted ladies across a latitudinal range of ca 3500 km extending from the northern Mediterranean through the Maghreb to sub‐Saharan West Africa. Large number of butterflies showed substantial wing damage attributable to failed attacks, with birds, mantids and lizards being the most likely predators. The risk of attack increased towards the equator, even after controlling for wing wear. In addition, there was a strong effect of butterfly size on predation risk, with larger butterflies facing a higher risk compared to their smaller counterparts, and clear evidence that females suffered more attacks than males. Although size is a major factor, latitude was a stronger predictor of predation risk across the migratory system, as evidenced by greater wing damage in butterflies at lower latitudes, even though their size notably decreased. These results raise an interesting evolutionary conflict, with a tradeoff between size and predation risk, as larger butterflies are likely to be more fecund and efficient in migratory flight but, at the same time, more vulnerable to predation.
Circadian clock period length is not consistently linked to chronotype in a wild songbird
Authors: Tomotani Barbara M. , Strauß Aurelia F. T. , Kishkinev Dmitry , van de Haar Huib , Helm Barbara
Published: September 2024

Circadian clock properties vary between individuals and relate to variation in entrained timing in captivity. How this variation translates into behavioural differences in natural settings, however, is poorly understood. Here, we tested in great tits whether variation in the free‐running period length (tau) under constant dim light (LL) was linked to the phase angle of the entrained rhythm (“chronotype”) in captivity and in the wild, as recently indicated in our study species. We also assessed links between tau and the timing of first activity onset and offset under LL relative to the last experienced light–dark (LD) cycle. We kept 66 great tits, caught in two winters, in LL for 14 days and subsequently released them with a radio transmitter back to the wild, where their activity and body temperature rhythms were tracked for 1 to 22 days. For a subset of birds, chronotype was also recorded in the lab before release. Neither wild nor lab chronotypes were related to tau. We also found no correlation between lab and wild chronotypes. However, the first onset in LL had a positive relationship with tau, but only in males. Our results demonstrate that links between tau and phase of entrainment, postulated on theoretical grounds, may not consistently hold under natural conditions, possibly due to strong masking. This calls for more holistic research on how the many components of the circadian system interact with the environment to shape timing in the wild.

Wild birds showed chronotypes in the field that were unlinked to their circadian period length tau measured in captivity. In males only, the first onset of activity after exposure to constant dim light did correlate with tau. Our study emphasises the need to investigate clocks in the real world, including a need to better understand masking.
Male and female age affects the reproductive potential of two tephritid flies
Authors: Díaz Viviana , Giudice Antonella , Palladini Alfonsina , Moyano Andrea , Castillo Gisela , Pérez‐Staples Diana , Abraham Solana
Published: September 2024

In insects, aging produces deterioration in physiological and cellular functioning, affecting their reproductive potential. Anastrepha fraterculus and Ceratitis capitata are two fruit fly species where overwintering adults resume their reproductive activity in spring, giving old individuals the possibility of mating with young adults. Most age studies focus on male reproductive capacity; however, we lack information on how the interaction between the ages of both sexes can determine post‐mating processes. Here, we studied sex and age effects on (i) female fecundity and fertility, (ii) failure to leave viable offspring (reproductive failure), and (iii) female remating behavior. We found that young pairs of both species had higher fecundity, but young C. capitata males mated with old females had the lowest fecundity. This suggests that overwintering flies in this species will not substantially contribute to the next generation. We also found in C. capitata more prevalent reproductive failure in hetero‐age combinations, which could be due to age recognition between mates, resulting perhaps in differential ejaculate allocation. Copula duration was positively associated with female age, yet it was longer for older A. fraterculus females and shorter for C. capitata females. Female remating was lower when young females mated with old males in C. capitata. This would imply that males perceive young females of “good quality” and thus invest and transfer all the ejaculate possible to ensure the delay of renewal of female receptivity. Aging does not always cause a decline in reproductive potential, which may be important in species that overwinter as adults. Complex interactions between female physiology and male ejaculate senescence can impact postcopulatory behaviors that affect reproductive success for both sexes.
Role of work‐to‐family spillover, generative concern, and gender on subjective well‐being in full‐time working adults
Authors: Rudaz Myriam , Johnston Trinity , Fincham Frank D.
Published: September 2024

Objective

This study aims to investigate full‐time working adults and the extent to which generative concern and gender moderate the association between positive and negative work‐to‐family spillover on life satisfaction and positive and negative affect.

Background

Families are an important and viable support for many people and their well‐being. At the same time, an increasing number of women and men are working full‐time in the United States, and work is likely to spill over into family life and affect well‐being.

Method

Using data from the second wave of the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) study, 1,570 full‐time working adults were examined. Regression analyses, controlling for education, hours worked for pay, parental status, and alternative well‐being outcomes, were conducted.

Results

The results showed that generative concern and gender moderated the effect of negative work‐to‐family spillover on life satisfaction and the effect of positive work‐to‐family spillover on positive affect, albeit differently for women and men.

Conclusion

The findings emphasize the importance of generative concern as a potential resource in full‐time working adults.

Implications

Companies could give employees the opportunity to pass on important skills to others, offer advice, or mentor young employees to strengthen generative concern.