bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tafazzin regulates neutrophil maturation and inflammatory response
Authors: Zakrzewski Przemysław , Rice Christopher M. , Fleming Kathryn , Cela Drinalda , Groves Sarah J. , Ponce Fernando , Gibbs Willem , Roberts Kiran , Pike Tobias , Strathdee Douglas , Anderson Eve , Nobbs Angela H. , Toye Ashley , Steward Colin , Amulic Borko
Published: June 2024

Barth syndrome (BTHS) is a rare genetic disease caused by mutations in theTAFAZZINgene. It is characterized by neutropenia, cardiomyopathy and skeletal myopathy. Neutropenia in BTHS is associated with life-threatening infections, yet there is little understanding of the molecular and physiological causes of this phenomenon. We combined bone marrow analysis, CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing in hematopoietic stem cells and functional characterization of circulating BTHS patient neutrophils to investigate the role ofTAFAZZINin neutrophils and their progenitors. We demonstrate a partial cell intrinsic differentiation defect, along with a dysregulated neutrophil inflammatory response in BTHS, including elevated formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in response to calcium flux. Developmental and functional alterations in BTHS neutrophils are underpinned by perturbations in the unfolded protein response (UPR) signaling pathway, suggesting potential therapeutic avenues for targeting BTHS neutropenia.
Cellular and molecular dysregulation of the esophageal epithelium in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Dapas Matthew , Clevenger Margarette H. , Makinde Hadijat M. , Therron Tyler , Carlson Dustin A. , Carns Mary , Aren Kathleen , Wei Cenfu , Muhammad Lutfiyya N. , Richardson Carrie L. , Dulai Parambir S. , Hinchcliff Monique , Pandolfino John E. , Perlman Harris R. , Winter Deborah R. , Tetreault Marie-Pier
Published: June 2024

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare autoimmune disease characterized by vasculopathy and fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. Individuals with SSc often suffer from chronic acid reflux and dysphagia due to loss of esophageal motility. However, the pathogenesis of esophageal dysmotility in SSc is poorly understood. To determine whether distinct changes in esophageal epithelial cells contribute to impaired motility in SSc, we investigated the stratified squamous esophageal epithelium from proximal and distal biopsies using single-cell RNA sequencing (n=306,372 cells) in individuals with SSc compared those with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) as well as healthy controls. The proportion of epithelial cells in the apical, superficial compartment of the esophageal epithelium was significantly reduced in SSc (9.4% vs 21.6% in HCs). Differential gene expression in SSc was primarily limited to the superficial compartment (3,572 genes vs. 232 in all other compartments, based on pseudobulk analysis), with significant upregulation of extracellular matrix and keratinization genes. These cellular and molecular changes in SSc were highly correlated with those seen in GERD, indicating they were secondary to reflux; however, their magnitudes were more pronounced in the proximal esophagus, suggesting that esophageal dysmotility leads to greater proximal acid exposure, which may contribute to aspiration. SSc-specific gene dysregulation implicated immunoregulatory pathways likely pertinent to pathogenic mechanisms. Cell type localization and SSc-specific changes were confirmed by spatial molecular imaging. By offering a comprehensive view of transcriptional dysregulation at single-cell resolution in human esophageal epithelial cells in SSc compared to GERD and healthy tissue, this work clarifies the state of epithelial cells in SSc-induced esophageal dysfunction.
Association of 25-OH Vitamin D Levels With In-Hospital Mortality: A cross-sectional, observational study of the MIMICIV database
Authors: Wang Yaotang , Lv Weijing , Yu Haixia
Published: June 2024

The relationship between 25-OH Vitamin D3 and hospital death continues to be a topic of controversy. At present, the available evidence regarding the relationship between 25-OH Vitamin D and hospital death is inadequate. Therefore, we conducted a cross-sectional study involving 197 sepsis-3 participants from MIMIC-IV. Basic information, laboratory indicators, underlying Disease, therapeutic medications and tools, disease score were obtained from all participants. Serum 25-OH Vitamin D was collected on Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission, and inpatient mortality were analyzed. The logistic regression, fitting curve and interaction effects were utilized to substantiate the correlation of serum 25-OH Vitamin D with inpatient mortality. Furthermore, interaction and subgroup analyses were evaluated for the consistency of these correlations. A total of 197 patients were included in the analysis, with an average age of 59.8 years and 43.1% male. The mean 25-OH vitamin D level in the cohort was 21 ng/mL. We observed no significant association between higher 25-OH vitamin D levels and increased inpatient mortality rates. The in-hospital mortality did not differ among patients vitamin D deficiency, insufficiency and sufficiency group (15.7% vs 17.4% vs 24.5%, p=0.417). A multivariable adjusted logistic regression model showed that vitamin D levels could not predict in-hospital mortality (OR 1.02 95% CI: 0.98∼1.05, p=0.342, Model 3). In conclusion, 25-OH vitamin D detected upon ICU admission was not associated with in-hospital mortality in patients with sepsis.
Two-Loop QED Corrections to the Scattering of Four Massive Leptons
Authors: Delto Maximilian , Duhr Claude , Tancredi Lorenzo , Zhu Yu Jiao
Published: June 2024

We study two-loop corrections to the scattering amplitude of four massive leptons in quantum electrodynamics. These amplitudes involve previously unknown elliptic Feynman integrals, which we compute analytically using the differential equation method. In doing so, we uncover the details of the elliptic geometry underlying this scattering amplitude and show how to exploit its properties to obtain compact, easy-to-evaluate series expansions that describe the scattering of four massive leptons in QED in the kinematical regions relevant for Bhabha and Møller scattering processes.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Microscopic Model for Fractional Quantum Hall Nematics
Authors: Pu Songyang , Balram Ajit C. , Taylor Joseph , Fradkin Eduardo , Papić Zlatko
Published: June 2024

Geometric fluctuations of the density mode in a fractional quantum Hall (FQH) state can give rise to a nematic FQH phase, a topological state with a spontaneously broken rotational symmetry. While experiments on FQH states in the second Landau level have reported signatures of putative FQH nematics in anisotropic transport, a realistic model for this state has been lacking. We show that the standard model of particles in the lowest Landau level interacting via the Coulomb potential realizes the FQH nematic transition, which is reached by a progressive reduction of the strength of the shortest-range Haldane pseudopotential. Using exact diagonalization and variational wave functions, we demonstrate that the FQH nematic transition occurs when the system’s neutral gap closes in the long-wavelength limit while the charge gap remains open. We confirm the symmetry-breaking nature of the transition by demonstrating the existence of a “circular moat” potential in the manifold of states with broken rotational symmetry, while its geometric character is revealed through the strong fluctuations of the nematic susceptibility and Hall viscosity.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Vector representations and unit vector representations of fields: Problems of understanding and possible teaching strategies
Authors: Hoyer Christoph , Girwidz Raimund
Published: June 2024

Vector fields are a highly abstract physical concept that is often taught using visualizations. Although vector representations are particularly suitable for visualizing quantitative data, they are often confusing, especially when describing real fields such as magnetic and electric fields, as the vector arrows can overlap. The present study investigates vector understanding at the end of secondary education. In particular, the extent to which the geometry of the field can be derived from conventional unit vector representations and representations with centered unit vectors was examined. To support this understanding, two exercises were compared. The unirepresentational exercise argued within the conventional unit vector representation, while the multirepresentational exercise attempted to support the link between centered and conventional unit vectors. The results show that almost all test subjects solved the items for generating vector representations correctly, but significant difficulties were encountered in interpreting vector representations. Drawing and interpreting vector representations therefore appear to be different skills that should be practiced intensively and in an integrated way. Various problems could be identified when interpreting vector representations. For example, the number of vectors is often erroneously used to estimate the strength of the field, although more vectors per surface element actually only increase the resolution of the representation. Here, however, the results suggest that the longitudinal density and the transverse density of the drawn vectors are perceived differently by the learners. Furthermore, the learners recognized the field’s geometry much more readily from centered unit vectors than from conventional unit vectors. Errors occur especially when interpreting the geometry of conventional unit vector representations of rotational fields and fields containing both sources and sinks while the geometries of fields containing only sinks were interpreted quite well. The comparison between the two training exercises showed that a promising approach to deepen students’ understanding would be to use an exercise that contrasts conventional and centered unit vector representations and explains how to translate from one representation to the other, rather than describing the main elements of only a single representation. Finally, based on the results of the study, we propose a strategy for teaching vector representations in schools. Given the significantly improved readability of the representation with centered unit vectors, the results even raise the question of whether this type of representation could possibly replace the conventional representation in textbooks and learning materials in the future.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Photonic implementation of the quantum Morra game
Authors: Ulibarrena Andrés , Sopena Alejandro , Brooks Russell , Centeno Daniel , Ho Joseph , Sierra Germán , Fedrizzi Alessandro
Published: June 2024

The Morra game, an age-old noncooperative game, traditionally played on one's hand, has proved to be a rich setting to study game-theoretic strategies, both classically and within the quantum realm. In this paper, we study a faithful translation of a two-player quantum Morra game, which builds on previous study by including the classical game as a special case. We propose a natural deformation of the game in the quantum regime in which Alice has a winning advantage, breaking the balance of the classical game. A Nash equilibrium can be found in some cases by employing a pure strategy, which is impossible in the classical game where a mixed strategy is always required. We prepared our states using photonic qubits on a linear optics setup, with an average deviation ≤2% with respect to the measured outcome probabilities. Finally, we discuss potential applications of the quantum Morra game to the study of quantum information and communication.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
High-Fidelity Spin Qubit Shuttling via Large Spin-Orbit Interactions
Authors: Bosco Stefano , Zou Ji , Loss Daniel
Published: June 2024

Shuttling spins with high fidelity is a key requirement to scale up semiconducting quantum computers, enabling qubit entanglement over large distances and favoring the integration of control electronics on-chip. To decouple the spin from the unavoidable charge noise, state-of-the-art spin shuttlers try to minimize the inhomogeneity of the Zeeman field. However, this decoupling is challenging in otherwise promising quantum computing platforms such as hole spin qubits in silicon and germanium, characterized by a large spin-orbit interaction and an electrically tunable qubit frequency. In this work, we show that, surprisingly, the large inhomogeneity of the Zeeman field stabilizes the coherence of a moving spin state, thus also enabling high-fidelity shuttling in these systems. We relate this enhancement in fidelity to the deterministic dynamics of the spin that filters out the dominant low-frequency contributions of the charge noise. By simulating several different scenarios and noise sources, we show that this is a robust phenomenon generally occurring at large field inhomogeneity. By appropriately adjusting the motion of the quantum dot, we also design realistic protocols enabling faster and more coherent spin shuttling. Our findings are generally applicable to a wide range of setups and could pave the way toward large-scale quantum processors.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Augmented reality for inclusive growth in education: the challenges
Authors: Mkwizu Kezia Herman , Bordoloi Ritimoni
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Inclusive growth in the education sector is still a major challenge in some countries because of limited access to technologies and internet connectivity, among other reasons. However, as a technology, augmented reality (AR) is expected to be widely used in the field of education in the future. The main purpose of this paper is to explore the use of AR for inclusive growth in education as well as identify the challenges, particularly in countries like India and Tanzania.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper applies a systematic literature review by analysing and synthesising relevant documents, mainly journal articles, books and conference papers. Descriptive statistics and cross-tabulation were used for the analysis. Content analysis was used to evaluate the contents of the reviewed literature.

Findings

For the use of AR, it is important to have adequate digital infrastructure, access to universal internet or broadband facilities and the digital empowerment of citizens. Major challenges to inclusive growth in education include the lack of trained teacher educators and students’ preference for practical or project-based curriculum.

Practical implications

Practitioners in both countries may consider the use of AR for inclusive growth in education.

Originality/value

This paper specifically examines the use of AR in higher education and the related challenges based on a review of two countries, namely India and Tanzania.
An assessment of senior management support for the records and information management function in Zimbabwe’s central government
Authors: Mutsagondo Samson , Khumalo Njabulo Bruce
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Using a case study of Zimbabwe’s central government, this study aims to empirically examine the extent to which senior management was supportive of the records management function as well as the reasons why such levels of support subsisted.

Design/methodology/approach

This mixed methods research made use of the explanatory sequential research design where quantitative responses from records and information supervisors were either confirmed or disconfirmed by open-ended interview responses from finance and administration directors. Fifteen records and information supervisors and eight finance and administration directors participated in the study. Document reviews and personal observation were also used in soliciting data.

Findings

The study revealed that top management was not very supportive of the records management function as a result of lack of knowledge about records management and because of negative perceptions and attitudes harboured by some senior managers towards the functional area. The study also revealed that organisational structural factors also played a part as the records and information management section was poorly represented by finance and administration directors at the top, who by virtue of their training had little knowledge about and interest in records management.

Originality/value

The study raises the importance of senior management in records management processes, projects and programmes. It highlights that without senior management support, records management initiatives are bound to fail. Thus, the study is important as it raises the need to incorporate senior management as part of organisations’ tactical and operational strategy.
Commitment-based human resource practices, job satisfaction and proactive knowledge-seeking behavior: The moderating role of organizational identification
Authors: Rudawska Aleksandra
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Based on social exchange theory and social identification theory, I investigated how employee organizational identification affects the effectiveness of commitment-based human resource (HR) practices. I focused on employee attitudes (job satisfaction) and behaviors (proactive knowledge seeking) as HR practices’ outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a structural equation modeling analytical approach, I tested the hypotheses with data from a web-based cross-sectional survey of 208 specialists and engineers of manufacturing subsidiaries in Poland.

Findings

Results showed that the positive relationship between commitment-based-HR practices and job satisfaction is weakened for employees strongly identified with the organization. Simultaneously, the connection between seeking knowledge and job satisfaction is stronger and more important for people who identify moderately to strongly.

Research limitations/implications

The study limitations regard mainly its cross-sectional design and single cultural and industrial context.

Practical implications

From the managerial perspective, the study suggests that to enhance proactive employee behavior, companies need to increase employee organizational identification and ensure that employees have a positive perception of the implemented HR practices.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the ongoing discussion on whether individual contingencies affect the effectiveness of commitment-based HR practices in the form of individual attitudinal and behavioral outcomes. The findings revealed that the contingent effect of organizational identification depends on the type of individual outcomes, suggesting that the strength of organizational identification affects how employees decide to reciprocate the organization’s attention and investment.
Expanding service beyond the organizational boundaries: moderated mediated model of servant leadership to affect employees’ community citizenship behavior
Authors: Khan Muhammad Mumtaz , Mubarik Muhammad Shujaat , Ahmed Syed Saad , Islam Tahir
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to understand how servant leadership affects employees’ community citizenship behavior by transforming their servant identity. Additionally, the study explicated whether the relationship between servant leadership and employees’ servant identity is contingent on leader–follower value congruence.

Design/methodology/approach

For this study data was collected from 468 employees working in the service industry in three waves which were undertaken with a lag of one month. The collected data was analyzed through structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results revealed that servant leadership is related to employees’ servant identity. The findings also substantiated the relationship between employees’ servant identity and their community citizenship behavior. The mediating role of servant identity linking servant leadership to employees’ community citizenship behavior was confirmed. Finally, leader–follower value congruence was found to moderate the relationship between servant leadership and employees’ servant identity.

Originality/value

The study is the first to ascertain the mediating role of servant identity linking servant leadership to employees’ community citizenship behavior. It is also the first study to ascertain that the effect of servant leadership on employees’ servant identity is contingent upon leader–follower value congruence.
Influence of massive open online courses implementation on satisfaction and continuance intention of students
Authors: Kineber Ahmed Farouk , Elshaboury Nehal , Mostafa Sherif , Alasow Ahmed Abdiaziz , Arashpour Mehrdad
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The engineering courses offered in Somali universities attract many students, ranging between 300 and 500 every semester, making the management and delivery of the course challenging. The increasing popularity of massive open online courses (MOOCs) has led to rapid growth in enrollment, posing difficulties in effectively managing and delivering content to large volumes of learners. To this end, this study aimed to explore the influence of MOOC implementation factors on learners’ continuance intention and satisfaction to provide insights that can enhance the learning experience and ensure long-term engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilized a survey approach based on an extensive literature review to collect data on the challenges faced by Somali universities in managing and delivering engineering courses. The survey included a series of questions, and 148 responses were collected from students enrolled in different programs. The collected data were analyzed using partial least squares-structural equation modeling and deep neural network approaches.

Findings

The result demonstrated that MOOC implementation factors, including course design quality, instructor reputation, self-paced flexibility, information relevance, platform usability and student support services, significantly affect students’ continuance intention and satisfaction. Therefore, the study recommends universities should enhance MOOC implementation factors to improve the quality of teaching and increase students’ continuance intention to study in a MOOC environment.

Originality/value

The study provides empirical evidence on how MOOC implementation factors affect the level of satisfaction and continuance intention of engineering students. It suggests that the findings could be useful for university management and lecturers to increase teaching and learning quality in the course and develop new strategies and approaches that suit modern-day learners. The study also aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of class delivery and improve student engagement in the learning process.
Effective mentor training, education and development: a qualitative multilevel meta-synthesis
Authors: Maxwell Bronwen , Káplár-Kodácsy Kinga , Hobson Andrew J. , Hotham Eleanor
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This paper synthesises international research on effective mentor training, education and development (MTED).

Design/methodology/approach

An adaptive theory methodology (Layder, 1998), combining deductive and inductive methods, was deployed in a qualitative meta-synthesis of thematic findings generated in three studies: a systematic review of literature published between January 2010 and July 2020, together with a secondary analysis of studies including evidence on MTED; a subsequent systematic review of literature published between August 2020 and May 2023 and a general inductive analysis (Thomas, 2006) of interviews of leaders of large-scale MTED programmes that had good evidence of impact.

Findings

Our meta-synthesis found that effective MTED is evidence-based, refined through ongoing research, tailored both to individual needs and context and includes sustained support. Effective pedagogical approaches in MTED are underpinned by adult learning principles and establish a learning climate that fosters open and trusting relationships. Effective MTED is shaped by the espoused mentoring model or approach, with particular emphasis on understanding, building and sustaining mentoring relationships and incorporating observing, practising, critically reflecting on and receiving feedback on mentoring.

Practical implications

The study will be helpful to practitioners designing, reviewing and evaluating MTED programmes, researchers seeking to enhance the sparse MTED evidence base and programme commissioners.

Originality/value

The original and significant contribution of this study is the identification of key principles relating to the overall design of – as well as specific content, pedagogical approaches and supporting resources within – MTED programmes that have evidenced positive effects on mentors, mentees, mentoring and/or organisations.
A multilevel model for organizational productivity management: an interpretive structural modeling approach
Authors: Abbasi Abbas , Shirazi Behnaz , Mohamadi Sahar
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This research highlights the ongoing concern about organizational productivity and the lack of focus on designing an optimal model. The authors aim to create a comprehensive model for managing organizational productivity, considering its impact on profitability, customer satisfaction, and employee morale. They use qualitative research methods, including Systematic Literature Review and Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM).

Design/methodology/approach

In this research using the qualitative research method of Systematic Literature Review, 57 variables affecting productivity were identified. These variables were placed in 16 layers by using the ISM method, which were classified analytically in four sections: INPUTS, OUTPUTS, OUTCOMES and IMPACTS. By determining the relationship between the sections, the research model was designed.

Findings

The potential model for organizational productivity management provides a comprehensive framework addressing critical factors like technology adoption, employee empowerment, organizational culture, and more. It identifies Linkage, Dependent, and independent variables. The lower layers consist of INPUTS such as Technological Tools, Organizational Values, and more. In the highest layer, impactful variables like Enhanced competitiveness, Improved decision-making, and Improved organizational culture are labeled as IMPACTS. Middle layer variables are categorized as OUTPUTS and OUTCOMES.

Originality/value

In this study, the concept of productivity management was redefined for the first time, and a multi-layered model for productivity management was creatively explicated using the structural equation modeling method.
Antecedents of big data analytics and artificial intelligence adoption on operational performance: the ChatGPT platform
Authors: Chen Chin-Tsu , Chen Shih-Chih , Khan Asif , Lim Ming K. , Tseng Ming-Lang
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to measure the integrated impact of big data analytics and artificial intelligence (BDA-AI) adoption by using the ChatGPT generative AI online platform as a BDA-AI tool on the operational and environmental performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This study considers Taiwanese professionals who engage with ChatGPT; the sample consists of 388 online users.

Findings

This study’s main finding is that the considered antecedents – including technological, organizational and environmental contexts, tangible resources and workforce skills – are significantly associated with BDA-AI adoption. Notably, BDA-AI adoption exhibits a significant relationship with operational performance, environmental performance and environmental process integration. Moreover, environmental process integration is significantly correlated with environmental performance. Lastly, operational performance is significantly correlated with environmental performance.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the heavily lacking but developing literature on the antecedents and consequences of BDA-AI adoption. Its theoretical foundation consists of the technological-organizational-environmental model, Roger’s diffusion of innovation theory and resource-based view theory.
Halal certification in food products: science mapping of present and future trends
Authors: Fauzi Muhammad Ashraf , Mohd Ali Noor Saadiah , Mat Russ Nazirah , Mohamad Fazeeda , Battour Mohamed , Mohd Zaki Nor Nadiha
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the knowledge structure of halal certification in food and beverages. The growth of the Muslim population and the expanding economic activities among the Muslim community have necessitated extensive and comprehensive halal certification, particularly in food and beverage products.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a science mapping approach, this study explores the knowledge structure based on past publications in food and beverages and its association with halal certification, logos and brands. Applying bibliographic coupling and co-word analysis, the present and future trends of halal certification in food and beverages are explored by presenting a network visualization to present the underlying themes and research streams.

Findings

The main finding from recent and emerging themes shows that the pivotal perspective is increasing consumers’ knowledge and awareness of halal-certified food products. Future trends stemming from the co-word analysis suggest the importance of exploring consumer halal food product determinants.

Originality/value

This study is relevant to stakeholders, scholars and practitioners, particularly in disseminating information and voice on the importance of halal-certified food products that are recognized as having better quality and contributing to environmental sustainability.
User-centred exploration of m-governance adoption: identifying and analysing determinants
Authors: Gupta Saurabh , Mathur Nidhi
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study tries to examine the factors that influence the adoption of e-governance mobile applications among Indian citizens. In addition, this study aims to analyse the impact of these factors on the adoption process.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used convenience sampling procedure to collect the data from 431 citizens of India. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling techniques were used to assess the validity of scale and test the hypotheses.

Findings

The finding reveals that the information quality (IQ), perceived usefulness, social influence and government appeal (GA) significantly and positively impacted the attitude of citizen towards the m-governance. In addition, perceived ease of use was not significantly and positively impacted the citizen towards the m-governance.

Practical implications

This study aims to contribute to the existing literature on m-governance adoption in the developing nation. The study intends to provide insightful information on the factors influencing the adoption of m-governance. Also, this study seeks to make a scholarly contribution and provide practical insights for professionals in the industry and government departments.

Originality/value

Mobile applications transform the government operations and enhance the efficiency of government service delivery. Although there are numerous benefits of m-government application, but still the adoption rate of m-governance is steady. The study uses technology acceptance model along with incorporated two additional constructs, i.e. IQ and GA, to make model more comprehensive and robust to understand the m-governance adoption intention.
Assessing the impact of pore‐fracture structures on permeability sensitivity in tectonic coal using computerized tomography scanning
Authors: Zou Guangui , Wang Meijiao , Zhao Tailang , She Jiasheng
Published: June 2024

The heterogeneity in permeability of coal reservoirs is primarily attributed to the considerable variation in the morphologies and structures of microscopic pore‐fractures, shaped by complex geological processes. This study emphasizes the necessity of understanding the impact and governance of these morphological and structural variations in pore‐fractures across different types of coal bodies on their permeability. Utilizing computerized tomography scanning and three‐dimensional imaging, we examined coal samples from the Datong coalfield in the southeastern Qinshui Basin, Shanxi Province, to characterize the pore‐fracture morphologies and structures distinct to various coal‐body types based on tomographic data. This introduces a methodology for assessing the influence of microscopic pore‐fracture parameters, such as porosity, specific surface area, tortuosity and fractal dimension, on permeability sensitivity. This is achieved through the application of the modified Kozeny–Carman equation and a fractal permeability model. Findings indicate a predominance of slab fractures in raw coal, whereas fragmented coal under weak brittle deformation exhibits small, isolated pore‐fractures with minimal diameter and volume and poor connectivity. In contrast, granular coal subjected to strong brittle deformation features extensive clusters of large pore‐fractures with significant diameter and volume, enhancing connectivity. Moreover, permeability predictions are refined by integrating the modified Kozeny–Carman equation with tomographic data, offering a more precise understanding of the permeability across different coal bodies.
Collective Capabilities for Organizational Democracy: The Case of Mutual Social Enterprises
Authors: Vickers Ian , Lyon Fergus , Sepulveda Leandro
Published: June 2024

Democratic forms of enterprise and economic governance are needed to help address urgent societal challenges where hierarchical decision‐making and governance approaches are clearly failing. There is insufficient understanding, however, of the capabilities needed by enterprises to implement and sustain organizational democracy in pressurized operational contexts. We focus on the role of collective capabilities, which arise from interactions between individuals to create collaboration and collective benefits. Interview evidence from 12 mutual social enterprises – organizations that trade with a social purpose – is used to explore the learning processes that underpin the generation of collective capabilities for organizational democracy. The analysis leads us to a theoretical model of collective capabilities development that responds to three fundamental areas of challenge: (i) Adaptive design of governance structures and processes, to balance ‘bottom‐up’ democracy with ‘top‐down’ stewardship control; (ii) Embedding, extending and revitalizing democracy, by supporting the voice, capabilities and confidence of workers and users to participate in collaborative governance; and (iii) Fostering deliberative learning, to navigate tensions and conflict between plural perspectives and achieve collective aims. In concluding, we reflect on some institutional and cultural barriers to organizational democracy and the case for more concerted policy action to realize its potential as a crucial component of economic democracy.
Talking about borderline personality disorder, shaping care: The multiple doings of narratives
Authors: Seal Emma‐Louise , Kokanović Renata , Flore Jacinthe , Borovica Tamara , Broadbear Jillian H. , McCutcheon Louise , Lawn Sharon
Published: June 2024

This article focuses on the narratives that circulate about borderline personality disorder (BPD) in health‐care settings in Australia and the effects such narratives can have on how people practice and seek out care. People with a BPD diagnosis frequently access health‐care services, often encountering stigma and discrimination. Drawing on narrative theory, we critically unpack the circulation and capacities of BPD narratives and the ways they can often contribute to poor and troubling experiences. This article is based on qualitative interviews with people living with a BPD diagnosis, as well as health practitioners who work with people with a BPD diagnosis. Our findings identified insidious and powerful BPD narratives that circulate in health‐care settings, particularly in short‐term, acute, or non‐specialist contexts, such as emergency departments and in‐patient units. These narratives influenced the ways that participants both practiced and sought out care. To improve health service quality for people with a BPD diagnosis, or those experiencing mental distress, it is important to challenge the sociocultural–political norms and relations that can influence approaches to care and practice. Disrupting and reframing negative BPD narratives and raising awareness about the impact of stories that are told about BPD have the potential to generate social change.
Evaluation of deep‐learning TSE images in clinical musculoskeletal imaging
Authors: Vashistha Rajat , Almuqbel Mustafa M , Palmer Nick J , Keenan Ross J , Gilbert Kevin , Wells Scott , Lynch Andrew , Li Andrew , Kingston‐Smith Stephen , Melzer Tracy R , Koerzdoerfer Gregor , O'Brien Kieran
Published: June 2024

In this study, we compared the fat‐saturated (FS) and non‐FS turbo spin echo (TSE) magnetic resonance imaging knee sequences reconstructed conventionally (conventional‐TSE) against a deep learning‐based reconstruction of accelerated TSE (DL‐TSE) scans. A total of 232 conventional‐TSE and DL‐TSE image pairs were acquired for comparison. For each consenting patient, one of the clinically acquired conventional‐TSE proton density‐weighted sequences in the sagittal or coronal planes (FS and non‐FS), or in the axial plane (non‐FS), was repeated using a research DL‐TSE sequence. The DL‐TSE reconstruction resulted in an image resolution that increased by at least 45% and scan times that were up to 52% faster compared to the conventional TSE. All images were acquired on a MAGNETOM Vida 3T scanner (Siemens Healthineers AG, Erlangen, Germany). The reporting radiologists, blinded to the acquisition time, were requested to qualitatively compare the DL‐TSE against the conventional‐TSE reconstructions. Despite having a faster acquisition time, the DL‐TSE was rated to depict smaller structures better for 139/232 (60%) cases, equivalent for 72/232 (31%) cases and worse for 21/232 (9%) cases compared to the conventional‐TSE. Overall, the radiologists preferred the DL‐TSE reconstruction in 124/232 (53%) cases and stated no preference, implying equivalence, for 65/232 (28%) cases. DL‐TSE reconstructions enabled faster acquisition times while enhancing spatial resolution and preserving the image contrast. From these results, the DL‐TSE provided added or comparable clinical value and utility in less time. DL‐TSE offers the opportunity to further reduce the overall examination time and improve patient comfort with no loss in diagnostic accuracy.
Dual‐energy CT for occult pelvic fractures: An audit and roc analysis
Authors: Wong Hayley , Logan Christabel , Tsai Yun‐Jung Jack , Doyle Anthony
Published: June 2024

Introduction

There is an increasing incidence of hip and pelvic fractures with an ageing population. Accurate and timely diagnosis is important in the emergency setting. While magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the gold standard, it is a limited resource. Dual energy CT (DECT) is comparable to MRI in detection of bone marrow oedema. Our hospital was the first centre in our country to introduce DECT for occult pelvic fractures. We aimed to describe its utility in occult pelvic fractures since commencement.

Methods

Retrospective study of consecutive pelvic bone CT (conventional or DECT) performed to look for an occult fracture over a 10‐month period. Sensitivity and specificity calculated based on clinical and imaging follow‐up. ROC study performed where three observers visually interpreted pelvic radiographs, conventional CT and DECT and scored their confidence for an acute fracture from 1 to 5. The null hypothesis was that DECT would not improve observer performance compared with conventional CT.

Results

DECT studies were performed on 178 patients of whom 84 (47%) had acute fractures. Sensitivity on audit was 99% and specificity was 100%. ROC analysis showed that, for all observers, the area under curve increased from radiograph to conventional CT to DECT. The difference between conventional CT and DECT was statistically significant for all observers where metal implants were not present.

Conclusion

DECT improves accuracy compared to conventional CT in the diagnosis of occult pelvic fractures and should be used for this indication when available.
Enhancing surgical precision in early‐stage non‐small cell lung cancer: A novel approach through temporary pulmonary vascular occlusion
Authors: Zhao Yan , You Bin , Li Hui
Published: June 2024

Background

To evaluate a novel intraoperative localization technique utilizing temporary pulmonary arteriovenous occlusion for enhancing the precision of sublobar resections in early‐stage NSCLC.

Methods

Conducted from January to November 2023, this study involved 140 patients. During the surgery, key pulmonary vessels were identified using preoperative three‐dimensional (3D) imaging and temporarily occluded with noninvasive clamps to isolate the target lung segment. Following vascular occlusion, indocyanine green (ICG) was administered intravenously to precisely delineate the resection margins. After visually confirming the marked areas, the clamps were released, and a targeted partial resection was performed on the delineated segment. Surgical data, including operation times, surgical margins, and hospitalization costs, were collected and compared with those from a historical control group of 110 patients who underwent traditional pulmonary wedge resections.

Results

In the study group, the median surgical margin achieved was 16 mm, which was statistically significant compared to 15 mm in the control group (p < 0.05). Operation times were reduced to an average of 58.43 ± 12.962 min, showing a decrease from the control group's average of 69.50 ± 17.544 min (p < 0.05). Hospitalization costs were also lower, averaging $4772.98 ± 624.339 for the study group versus $5161.34 ± 856.336 for the control group (p < 0.05). Patient safety was maintained with no increase in surgical complications.

Conclusion

The technique, leveraging temporary pulmonary arteriovenous occlusion, offered a significant advancement in the surgical treatment of peripheral early‐stage NSCLC. It reduced operation time and lowered overall surgical costs. This method represented a promising alternative to traditional surgical approaches.
Identification of nicotinamide N‐methyltransferase as a promising therapeutic target for sarcopenia
Authors: Liang Rui , Xiang Qiao , Dai Miao , Lin Taiping , Xie Dongmei , Song Quhong , Liu Yu , Yue Jirong
Published: June 2024

Sarcopenia is a significant geriatric syndrome that involves the loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength. Due to its substantial endocrine role, the metabolic microenvironment of skeletal muscle undergoes changes with age. Examining the pathogenesis of sarcopenia through focusing on metabolic dysregulation could offer insights for developing more effective intervention strategies. In this study, we analyzed the transcriptomics data to identify specific genes involved in the regulation of metabolism in skeletal muscle during the development of sarcopenia. Three machine learning algorithms were employed to screen key target genes exhibiting strong correlations with metabolism, which were further validated using RNA‐sequencing data and publicly accessible datasets. Among them, the metabolic enzyme nicotinamide N‐methyltransferase (NNMT) was elevated in sarcopenia, and predicted sarcopenia with an area under the curve exceeding 0.7, suggesting it as a potential therapeutic target for sarcopenia. As expected, inhibition of NNMT improved the grip strength in aging mice and alleviated age‐related decline in the mass index of the quadriceps femoris muscles and whole‐body lean mass index. Additionally, the NNMTi treatment increased the levels of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) content, as well as PGC1α and p‐AMPK expression in the muscles of both the D‐galactose‐treated mouse model and naturally aging mouse model. Overall, this work demonstrates NNMT as a promising target for preventing age‐related decline in muscle mass and strength.
Are sleep disorders associated with traumatic dental injuries in school children? A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Cossa IA , Santos PS , Vitali FC , Santana CM , Bolan M , Cardoso M
Published: June 2024

Background

To evaluate whether the prevalence of traumatic dental injuries (TDIs) in permanent anterior teeth among school children is associated with sleep behaviours and disorders.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was carried out with a representative sample of schoolchildren aged 8 to 10 years (n = 1402) from Florianopolis, Brazil. Clinical examinations for TDIs were performed according to the classification proposed by Andreasen. Parents/caregivers completed a questionnaire addressing sociodemographic characteristics and sleep behaviours/disorders (sleep duration, insomnia, sleep rhythmic movement, snoring, and signs of sleep apnoea). Descriptive analysis and Poisson regression were performed.

Results

The prevalence of TDIs was 10.9%. Insomnia was observed in 3.0% of the children, snoring in 42.8%, sleep rhythmic movement in 27.9%, and signs of obstructive sleep apnoea in 33.6% of the schoolchildren. Most children (75.2%) slept less than eight hours a day. The prevalence of TDIs was higher among schoolchildren with an increased overjet (PR: 1.65; 95% CI: 1.15–2.35; P < 0.01), after adjusting for monthly family income, caregiver's schooling, and sleep behaviours. The prevalence of TDIs was not associated with sleep behaviours/disorders.

Conclusions

Parent‐reported sleep disorders such as insomnia, sleep rhythmic movement, snoring and signs of sleep apnoea were not associated with the prevalence of TDIs in schoolchildren. © 2024 Australian Dental Association.
Biomonitoring of biocontrol across the full annual cycle in temperate climates: Post‐harvest, winter and early‐season interaction data and methodological considerations for its collection
Authors: Cuff Jordan P. , Gajski Domagoj , Michalko Radek , Košulič Ondřej , Pekár Stano
Published: June 2024

Conservation biocontrol, the regulation of crop pests by naturally occurring biocontrol agents (e.g., predators and parasitoids), is predominantly monitored throughout periods of primary crop growth when pests exert the most observable impact on yields. Pest‐focused agricultural biomonitoring often overlooks post‐harvest, winter and even early‐season biocontrol, despite the significant predator–pest interactions during these periods that profoundly affect pest abundance and, consequently, crop yields. Rapid advances in biomonitoring, particularly in the detection of predator–pest interactions that underpin biocontrol, provide an opportunity to reconsider how and when we monitor these interactions.

Advances in agricultural biomonitoring must transcend methodological innovation and encompass conceptual changes in the monitoring of agricultural systems. Here, we assess existing evidence supporting the importance of periods beyond primary crop growth for biocontrol and how predator–pest interactions are likely to evolve during these periods, subsequently influencing pest population dynamics during the primary crop growth period.

We advocate for a greater concerted effort to establish continuous monitoring of biocontrol interactions, particularly beyond primary crop growth periods in temperate climates. To facilitate this, we also summarise the methodological approaches that can make it possible and explore how extending sampling across the full annual cycle might impact the practicalities and outcomes of these approaches.

Year‐round monitoring of biocontrol interactions, both in crops and adjacent semi‐natural habitats, will provide a previously intractable understanding of predator–pest dynamics, offering significant potential to enhance our ability to optimise and manipulate these systems. This would manifest in reduced crop yield losses, pest infestation rates and disease transmission, with concomitant long‐term financial, environmental and land‐use benefits.