bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does financial inclusion spur CO2 emissions? The marginal effects of financial sustainability
Authors: Adeneye Yusuf , Rasheed Shahida , Ooi Say Keat
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine the relationship between financial inclusion, CO2 emissions and financial sustainability across 17 African countries.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were sourced from the World Development Indicators for the period 2004-2021. The study performs the principal component analysis, panel fixed effects model and quantile regression estimations to investigate the relationship between financial inclusion, CO2 emissions and financial sustainability.

Findings

The study finds that an increase in automated teller machine (ATM) penetration rate, savings and credits increases CO2 emissions. Findings also reveal that financial sustainability reduces financial inclusion, with significant negative effects on the conditional mean of CO2 emissions and the conditional distribution of CO2 emissions across quantiles.

Originality/value

This study is beneficial for policymakers, particularly in the age of digitalization and drive for low-carbon emissions, to develop green credits for energy players and investors to take up renewable and green energy projects characterized by high levels of carbon storage and carbon capture. Further, the banking sector’s credits and liquid assets should be used to finance alternative banking energy-related equipment and services, such as solar photovoltaic wireless ATMs, and fewer bank branches.
How and when psychological capital enhances well-being at work: evidence from the Tunisian healthcare professionals
Authors: Nasria Amir , Gara Bach Ouerdian Emna
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study investigates how and when psychological capital (PsyCap) enhances well-being at work (WBW). Drawing on the job demands-resources (JD-R) model and the conservation of resource (COR) theory, an integrated model attempts to identify the relationship between PsyCap and employees' workplace well-being, mediated through work engagement (WE). Furthermore, the authors seek to understand how coaching-based leadership (CBL) moderates the relationship above.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were obtained from healthcare professionals who worked during the COVID-19 pandemic crisis in Tunisian hospitals. An online survey was distributed anonymously. A total of 449 questionnaires were included in the analysis. The PROCESS macro for SPSS (models 4 and 7) was employed to analyze the data.

Findings

The findings revealed that PsyCap significantly relates to WBW; and WE and CBL act as a mediating mechanism and a boundary condition, respectively. The collective effect of PsyCap, WE and CBL on WBW was also confirmed based on moderated mediation analysis.

Practical implications

This study gives HR managers insights into the importance of developing workers' PsyCap to promote their WBW. The findings also suggest that healthcare managers and leaders who aim to promote well-being should act as coaches.

Originality/value

This study extends research on WBW and sheds light on essential mechanisms and boundary conditions under which PsyCap promotes workplace well-being.
Negative and positive contamination in secondhand fashion consumption: does culture matter?
Authors: Kim Naeun Lauren , Jin Byoungho Ellie , Kim Terry Haekyung
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Despite the growing popularity of online secondhand platforms globally, there is a lack of studies exploring how consumers worldwide perceive contamination and the use of secondhand goods differently according to the culture. Based on the consumer contamination theory, this study aims to investigate the cultural differences of South Koreans and Americans by examining three variables (e.g. transaction type, ownership duration and physical attractiveness) related to consumers' perception of contamination and purchase intentions for a secondhand apparel item.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 422 US and South Korean female consumers who were assigned to an experimental scenario, and their secondhand purchase intentions and perceived contamination were compared through independent t-tests and moderated regression analyses.

Findings

Consumers' purchase intentions increased, and perceived contamination decreased when the transaction type was business-to-consumer (vs consumer-to-consumer), when the item had been owned for a shorter period of time and when the item was sold by an attractive seller. Such effect was more pronounced for South Korean consumers than the US consumers in the negative contamination contexts (i.e. transaction type, ownership duration), but not in the positive contamination context (i.e. attractiveness).

Originality/value

The findings of the study add to the literature on consumer contamination theory through an examination of several negative and positive contamination factors in retail contexts and highlight the role of culture as a critical moderator.
Unraveling real-time mobile connectivity paradox and emotional ambivalence: a quasi-experimental design from a multi-source perspective
Authors: Sui Yubing , Luqman Adeel , Unhale Manish , Schiavone Francesco , Cuomo Maria Teresa
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study develops and validates a theoretical model of real-time mobile connectivity, examining how employees' perceptions of their relationship with supervisors influence their emotional experiences. Through quasi-experiments, the authors investigate the behavioral patterns and emotional responses associated with real-time mobile connectivity in organizations, with a focus on messaging apps that indicate message read status. Specifically, they explore how supervisors' attentiveness or inattentiveness in mobile connectivity impacts emotional ambivalence (anxiety and pride) among subordinates. Additionally, they examine the downstream effects of this emotional ambivalence on employees' workplace thriving and job performance across various dimensions.

Design/methodology/approach

To address the paradox of real-time mobile connectivity, a quasi-experimental design involving 320 team members from 46 teams was implemented. Multi-level structural equation modeling was employed to analyze within-person variance and evaluate the proposed hypotheses.

Findings

The findings indicate that employees who do not receive timely indications from their supervisors are more likely to experience elevated levels of anxiety, while those who receive prompt indications experience a sense of pride. Moreover, the indirect effects of the real-time mobile connectivity paradox on employee performance, mediated by anxiety (negatively) and pride (positively), are fully explained through workplace thriving.

Research limitations/implications

This study provides insights into the emotional ambivalence experienced in the workplace due to real-time mobile connectivity, highlighting its implications for organizational competitiveness. Integrating resource conservation theory and cognitive appraisal theory of emotion, the study explores the mediating role of workplace thriving and the impact on employee performance through pride and anxiety. Generalizability requires considering organizational settings and cultural contexts while acknowledging limitations such as a focus on messaging apps and specific samples. Future research should explore these dynamics in diverse contexts and identify additional factors influencing the relationship between real-time mobile connectivity and employee outcomes.

Practical implications

This study provides valuable insights for managers regarding the significance of message indications, as their attentiveness can elicit emotional reactions from employees that subsequently impact workplace thriving and job performance.

Originality/value

This study pioneers the exploration of the paradox of real-time mobile connectivity in the workplace, uncovering the discrete emotions experienced by employees. Furthermore, it elucidates the subsequent opposing effects on workplace thriving and job performance, contributing to the existing literature and knowledge in this area.
Beyond the bin: overcoming the intention–behavior gap in zero-waste living
Authors: Sajid Muhammed , Zakkariya K.A. , Ertz Myriam
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The zero-waste lifestyle (ZWL) is considered a reasonable step towards controlling waste generation and minimizing the consequences of human activities on the environment. The main aim of this study is to examine the behavioral antecedents of ZWL.

Design/methodology/approach

The study draws on the theoretical underpinnings of the theory of planned behavior (TPB) and the norm activation model (NAM) to develop a conceptual framework to understand the antecedents to ZWL. A cross-sectional survey among 349 randomly-selected consumers provided data analyzed with the partial least square-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) methodology.

Findings

The results demonstrate that personal norms, attitude, subjective norms and perceived behavioral control positively influenced the intention to adopt ZWL. Additionally, the study showed that the awareness of consequences influenced personal norms, attitudes and subjective norms. However, the study identified an intention–behavior gap in adopting ZWL.

Originality/value

This study serves as a pioneering exploration of the behavioral factors that impact the adoption of ZWL. Additionally, the paper endeavors to elucidate the underlying reasons behind the intention–behavior gap within this particular context. Consequently, the study offers substantial theoretical and practical implications aimed at promoting and fostering greater adoption of ZWL practices.
A clinical and biologic review of congenital melanocytic nevi
Authors: Tan Songtao , Hu Haoyue , Xin Xin , Wu Di
Published: November 2023

Congenital melanocytic nevi (CMN) are the result of aberrations in the mitogen‐activated protein kinase signal transduction pathway caused by postzygotic somatic mutations. The estimated incidence of newborns with CMN is 1%–2%. The main complications of CMN include proliferative nodules, melanomas, and neurocutaneous melanosis, and the latter two are the most troublesome issues to address. Treatments are primarily taken into account for aesthetic purposes and the reduction of melanoma risk. Due to the much lower incidence of malignant transformation observed in recent studies than in previous data, clinical management paradigms for CMN patients have gradually shifted towards conservative observation and close monitoring. Surgery and lasers are still the main treatments, and targeted therapy may be a promising strategy to help manage complications. With the increase in awareness of mental health, increasing focus has been placed on the quality of life (QoL) and psychological issues of both CMN patients and their parents. Recent studies have revealed that families coping with CMN might endure intense pressure, a major loss in QoL, and psychological problems after diagnosis and during treatment. Here, we sought to present an overview of genetic basis, complications, treatments, and psychological issues related to CMN and hope to provide better management for patients with CMN.
Comparative genomics reveals the dynamic evolutionary history of cement protein genes of barnacles from intertidal to deep‐sea hydrothermal vents
Authors: Lee Won‐Kyung , Chan Benny K. K. , Kim Jae‐Yoon , Ju Se‐Jong , Kim Se‐Joo
Published: November 2023

Thoracican barnacles are a diverse group of marine organisms for which the availability of genome assemblies is currently limited. In this study, we sequenced the genomes of two neolepadoid species (Ashinkailepas kermadecensis, Imbricaverruca yamaguchii) from hydrothermal vents, in addition to two intertidal species. Genome sizes ranged from 481 to 1054 Mb, with repetitive sequence contents of 21.2% to 50.7%. Concordance rates of orthologs and heterozygosity rates were between 82.4% and 91.7% and between 1.0% and 2.1%, respectively, indicating high genetic diversity and heterozygosity. Based on phylogenomic analyses, we revised the nomenclature of cement genes encoding cement proteins that are not homologous to any known proteins. The major cement gene, CP100A, was found in all thoracican species, including vent‐associated neolepadoids, and was hypothesised to be essential for thoracican settlement. Duplicated genes, CP100B and CP100C, were found only in balanids, suggesting potential functional redundancy or acquisition of new functions associated with the calcareous base. An ancestor of CP52 genes was duplicated dynamically among lepadids, pollicipedids with multiple copies on a single scaffold, and balanids with multiple sequential repeats of the conserved regions, but no CP52 genes were found in neolepadoids, providing insights into cement gene evolution among thoracican lineages. This study enhances our understanding of the adhesion mechanisms of thoracicans in underwater environments. The newly sequenced genomes provide opportunities for studying their evolution and ecology, shedding light on their adaptation to diverse marine environments, and contributing to our knowledge of barnacle biology with valuable genomic resources for further studies in this field.
Genomic evolution of island birds from the view of the Swinhoe's pheasant (Lophura swinhoii)
Authors: Xu Xiao , Wang Chen , Xu Chunzhong , Yuan Jiaqing , Wang Guiqiang , Wu Yajiang , Huang Chen , Jing Haohao , Yang Peng , Xu Lulu , Peng Shiming , Shan Fen , Xia Xiaochao , Jin Fuyuan , Hou Fanghui , Wang Jinhong , Mi Da , Ren Yandong , Liu Yang , Irwin David M. , Li Xuejuan , Chen Wu , Li Gang
Published: November 2023

Island endemic birds account for the majority of extinct vertebrates in the past few centuries. To date, the evolutionary characteristics of island endemic bird's is poorly known. In this research, we de novo assembled a high‐quality chromosome‐level reference genome for the Swinhoe's pheasant, which is a typical endemic island bird. Results of collinearity tests suggest rapid ancient chromosome rearrangement that may have contributed to the initial species radiation within Phasianidae, and a role for the insertions of CR1 transposable elements in rearranging chromosomes in Phasianidae. During the evolution of the Swinhoe's pheasant, natural selection positively selected genes involved in fecundity and body size functions, at both the species and population levels, which reflect genetic variation associated with island adaptation. We further tested for variation in population genomic traits between the Swinhoe's pheasant and its phylogenetically closely related mainland relative the silver pheasant, and found higher levels of genetic drift and inbreeding in the Swinhoe's pheasant genome. Divergent demographic histories of insular and mainland bird species during the last glacial period may reflect the differing impact of insular and continental climates on the evolution of species. Our research interprets the natural history and population genetic characteristics of the insular endemic bird the Swinhoe's pheasant, at a genome‐wide scale, provides a broader perspective on insular speciation, and adaptive evolution and contributes to the genetic conservation of island endemic birds.
Courts, climate litigation and the evolution of earth system law
Authors: Kotzé Louis J. , Mayer Benoit , van Asselt Harro , Setzer Joana , Biermann Frank , Celis Nicolas , Adelman Sam , Lewis Bridget , Kennedy Amanda , Arling Helen , Peters Birgit
Published: November 2023

Numerous scientific reports have evidenced the transformation of the earth system due to human activities. These changes – captured under the term ‘Anthropocene’ – require a new perspective on global law and policy. The concept of ‘earth system law’ situates law in an earth system context and offers a new perspective to interrogate the role of law in governing planetary challenges such as climate change. The discourse on earth system law has not yet fully recognised courts as actors that could shape climate governance, while climate litigation discourse has insufficiently considered aspects of earth system law. We posit that courts play an increasingly influential climate governance role and that they need to be recognised as Anthropocene institutions within the earth system law paradigm. Drawing on a set of prominent climate cases, we discuss five inter‐related domains that are relevant for earth system law and where the potential influence of courts can be discerned: establishing accountability, redefining power relations, remedying vulnerabilities and injustices, increasing the reach and impact of international climate law and applying climate science to adjudicate legal disputes. We suggest that their innovative work in these domains could provide a basis for positioning courts as planetary climate governance actors.
Extracellular vesicles—Mediators of opioid use disorder?
Authors: Morris Daniel C. , Zacharek Alex , Zhang Zheng G. , Chopp Michael
Published: November 2023

Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a growing health emergency in the United States leading to an epidemic of overdose deaths. OUD is recognized as an addictive brain disorder resulting in psychological, cognitive and behavioural dysfunction. These observed clinical dysfunctions are a result of cellular changes that occur in the brain. Derangements in inflammation, neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity are observed in the brains of OUD patients. The mechanisms of these derangements are unclear; however, extracellular vesicles (EVs), membrane bound particles containing protein, nucleotides and lipids are currently being investigated as agents that invoke these cellular changes. The primary function of EVs is to facilitate intercellular communication by transfer of cargo (protein, nucleotides and lipids) between cells; however, changes in this cargo have been observed in models of OUD suggesting that EVs may be agents promoting the observed cellular derangements. This review summarizes evidence that altered cargo of EVs, specifically protein and miRNA, in models of OUD promote impairments in neurons, astrocytes and microglial cells. These findings support the premise that opioids alter EVs to detrimentally affect neuro‐cellular function resulting in the observed addictive, psychological and neurocognitive deficits in OUD patients.
An assessment of factors associated with early postoperative stiffness in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair
Authors: Guo Allen A. , Ting Ryan S. , Lam Patrick H. , Murrell George A. C.
Published: November 2023

Background

Postoperative stiffness affects up to 20% of patients following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Recent evidence indicates that early postoperative stiffness may associated with lower retear rates. This study aimed to identify the independent predictors of early postoperative stiffness.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of 1526 rotator cuff repairs was performed. Range of motion at 6‐week postop was used to identify stiff patients. Stiffness was defined as external rotation <27.5o or forward flexion <145o. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to identify the independent predictors of 6‐week stiffness.

Results

The independent predictors for external rotation stiffness at 6‐week postop were more recent cases (Wald = 60), restricted preoperative external rotation (Wald = 36), younger age (Wald = 21) and poorer surgeon‐ranked tissue quality (Wald = 15). The independent predictors for forward flexion stiffness were more recent cases (Wald = 101), restricted preoperative forward flexion (Wald = 16) and external rotation (Wald = 13) and female patients (Wald = 12). All patients that developed early postoperative stiffness had recovered range of motion by 6 months to preoperative levels (P < 0.0001). A significantly greater proportion of younger patients (40–49) developed postoperative stiffness when compared to older patients aged 50–59 (P < 0.0062), 70–79 (P < 0.0126) and 80–89 (P < 0.004). Patients that retore had significantly greater average 6‐week postoperative range of motion.

Conclusions

Patients earlier in the study were found to have greater postoperative range of motion, which coincided with a more aggressive rehabilitation program with less immobilization. Thus, the data supports the hypothesis that a temporary period of shoulder stiffness facilitates tendon repair and ultimately a better outcome post rotator cuff repair.
Clinical characteristics of acute lacosamide poisoning: Pavia Poison Control Centre experience
Authors: Bernasconi Lucia , Schicchi Azzurra , Petrolini Valeria M. , Malovini Alberto , Lonati Davide , Fassio Federico , Buscaglia Eleonora , Scaravaggi Giulia , Crema Francesca , Locatelli Carlo A.
Published: November 2023

Aims

Lacosamide is a third‐generation antiepileptic drug used as adjunctive therapy for partial seizures. Since its approval in 2008 very few cases of lacosamide overdose have been described in literature. The aim of our study was to evaluate clinical characteristics of acute lacosamide poisoning.

Methods

A retrospective observational study was performed including all cases of acute lacosamide poisoning referred to Pavia Poison Control Centre from January 2012 to December 2021. For each patient age, sex, ingested dose, coingestants, clinical manifestations, treatment and outcome were collected.

Results

A total of 31 subjects (median age 39 years, [interquartile range: 26.5–46.5]; females 22/31) were included. The median lacosamide ingested dose was 1500 mg [650–2800]. In 35.5% of cases lacosamide was the single ingested substance, while in 64.5% coingestants were also present. Coingestants varied from a minimum of 1 to a maximum of 3, with the more common being benzodiazepines and valproic acid. Clinical manifestations were present in 87% patients the most common were: vomiting (29%); seizures (29%), coma (25.8%), drowsiness (25.8%), confusion (12.9%), agitation (12.9%), tachycardia (12.9%), tremors (9.7%), bradycardia (9.7%), headache (6.5%) and hypertension (3.2%). The median lacosamide ingested dose was significantly higher in patients that experienced coma compared to patient who did not (2800 vs. 800 mg; P = .0082). Orotracheal intubation was necessary in 32.3% of patients. All patients fully recovered.

Conclusion

Lacosamide acute overdose may lead to a severe clinical picture. Dentral nervous system symptoms predominated, particularly seizures and coma occurred in a high percentage of cases.
The application of a multidisciplinary approach in the diagnosis of Castleman disease and Castleman‐like lymphadenopathies: A 20‐year retrospective analysis of clinical and pathological features
Authors: Pelliccia Sabrina , Rogges Evelina , Cardoni Antonello , Lopez Gianluca , Conte Esmeralda , Faccini Anna Laura , De Vito Rita , Girardi Katia , Bianchi Antonella , Annibali Ombretta , Fratoni Stefano , Remotti Daniele , De Angelis Gioia , Giordano Carla , Palumbo Giovanna , Scarpino Stefania , Del Porto Flavia , Bianchi Maria Paola , Di Gregorio Francesca , Tafuri Agostino , Di Napoli Arianna
Published: November 2023

Background

Castleman disease (CD) comprises a group of rare and heterogeneous haematological disorders, including unicentric (UCD) and multicentric (MCD) forms, the latter further subdivided into HHV8‐MCD, POEMS‐MCD and idiopathic‐MCD (iMCD). However, according to the Castleman Disease Collaborative Network guidelines, the diagnosis of CD can only be achieved through collaboration between clinicians and pathologists.

Methods

We applied these clinical and pathological criteria and implement with clonality testing to a retrospective cohort of 48 adult and paediatric Italian patients diagnosed with reactive lymphadenitis with CD‐like histological features.

Results

We confirmed the diagnosis of CD in 60% (29/48) of the cases, including 12 (41%) UCD and 17 (59%; five HHV8‐MCD, three POEMS‐MCD and nine iMCD) MCD. Of the remaining 19 cases (40%) with multiple lymphadenopathy, 5 (26%) were classified as autoimmune diseases, 1 (5%) as autoimmune lymphoproliferative disorder, 1 (5%) as IgG4‐related disease, 11 (83%) as reactive lymphadenitis and 1 (5%) as nodal marginal zone lymphoma.

Conclusions

Our study emphasizes the importance of the multidisciplinary approach to reactive lymphadenitis with CD‐like features in order to achieve a definitive diagnosis and choose the appropriate treatment.
Incidence, risk factors, and temporal trends of penile cancer: a global population‐based study
Authors: Huang Junjie , Chan Sze Chai , Pang Wing Sze , Liu Xianjing , Zhang Lin , Lucero‐Prisno Don Eliseo , Xu Wanghong , Zheng Zhi‐Jie , Ng Anthony Chi‐Fai , Necchi Andrea , Spiess Philippe E. , Teoh Jeremy Yuen‐Chun , Wong Martin C.S. ,   Global Society of Rare Genitourinary Tumors (GSRGT)
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To examine the global disease burden and country‐specific trends of penile cancer incidence by age group and investigate its associations with several factors.

Materials and Methods

The Global Cancer Observatory database was interrogated for penile cancer incidence. The 10‐year cancer incidence rates were collected from the Cancer Incidence in Five Continents Plus. The country‐specific data were extracted from the World Health Organization Global Health Observatory and Global Burden of Disease databases for conducting risk factors analysis. The penile cancer incidence was presented using age‐standardised rates. Its associations with various factors were examined by linear regression, while the incidence trend was estimated using joinpoint regression and presented as average annual percentage change with 95% confidence intervals in different age groups.

Results

There were an estimated 36 068 new cases of penile cancer in 2020. There was a considerable geographical disparity in the disease burden of penile cancer, with South America reporting the highest incidence. Overall, alcohol drinking, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, and unsafe sex were positively associated with a higher penile cancer incidence, while circumcision was found to be a protective factor. There has been a mixed trend in penile cancer incidence overall, but an increasing trend was found among younger males.

Conclusions

There was a global variation in the penile cancer burden associated with prevalence of alcohol drinking, HIV infection, unsafe sex, and circumcision. The increasing penile cancer incidence in the younger population is worrying and calls for early detection and preventive interventions.
Mandatory minimum sentencing and its effect on sentencing distributions: Evidence from Canada
Authors: Penney Jeffrey , Lehrer Steven , Galan Emilia
Published: November 2023

Whether judges and prosecutors should be given full discretionary power in sentencing or mandatory minimum sentences be imposed remains a fiercely debated topic. In this paper, we examine the impact of Canada's 2005 introduction of minimum sentences on sexual offences against children and child pornography on the distribution of sentence lengths using administrative data containing the universe of these offences that occurred between 2003 and 2007. We find that the average sentence length for affected crimes at times increased by substantially more than the newly imposed minimum, and effects of the policy appear even in the middle and upper portions of the sentencing distribution. These increases occur immediately following the policy change, signalling that judges and prosecutors quickly change their sentencing behaviour after the implementation of mandatory minimum sentences. These lengthier sentences have significant implications for the estimation of the fiscal costs of minimum sentencing policies.
Dry eye symptoms and signs in United States Gulf War era veterans with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome
Authors: Sanchez Victor , Kim Colin K. , Locatelli Elyana V. T. , Cohen Adam K. , Cabrera Kimberly , Aenlle Kristina , Klimas Nancy G. , O'Brien Robert , Galor Anat
Published: November 2023

Background

To examine ocular symptoms and signs of veterans with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) diagnosis, ME/CFS symptoms, and controls.

Methods

This was a prospective, cross‐sectional study of 124 South Florida veterans in active duty during the Gulf War era. Participants were recruited at an ophthalmology clinic at the Miami Veterans Affairs Hospital and evaluated for a diagnosis of ME/CFS, or symptoms of ME/CFS (intermediate fatigue, IF) using the Canadian Consensus criteria. Ocular symptoms were assessed via standardised questionnaires and signs via comprehensive slit lamp examination. Inflammatory blood markers were analysed and compared across groups.

Results

Mean age was 55.1 ± 4.7 years, 88.7% identified as male, 58.1% as White, and 39.5% as Hispanic. Ocular symptoms were more severe in the ME/CFS (n = 32) and IF (n = 48) groups compared to controls (n = 44) across dry eye (DE; Ocular Surface Disease Index [OSDI]: 48.9 ± 22.3 vs. 38.8 ± 23.3 vs. 19.1 ± 17.8, p < 0.001; 5 item Dry Eye Questionnaire [DEQ‐5]: 10.8 ± 3.9 vs. 10.0 ± 4.6 vs. 6.6 ± 4.2, p < 0.001) and pain‐specific questionnaires (Numerical Rating Scale 1‐10 [NRS] right now: 2.4 ± 2.8 vs. 2.4 ± 2.9 vs 0.9 ± 1.5; p = 0.007; Neuropathic Pain Symptom Inventory modified for the Eye [NPSI‐E]: 23.0 ± 18.6 vs. 19.8 ± 19.1 vs. 6.5 ± 9.0, p < 0.001). Ocular surface parameters and blood markers of inflammation were generally similar across groups.

Conclusion

Individuals with ME/CFS report increased ocular pain but similar DE signs, suggesting that mechanisms beyond the ocular surface contribute to symptoms.
Accuracy and patient‐centered results of marker‐based and marker‐free registrations for dynamic computer‐assisted implant surgery: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zhu Jingxian , Sun Wei , Li Lei , Li Honglei , Zou Yujie , Huang Bin , Ji Wei , Shi Bin
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To compare implant placement accuracy and patient‐centered results between the dynamic computer‐assisted implant surgeries (d‐CAISs) using marker‐based and marker‐free registration methods.

Materials and Methods

A double‐armed, single‐blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted, in which 34 patients requiring single implant placement at the esthetic zone were randomly assigned to the marker‐based (n = 17) or marker‐free (n = 17) groups. The marker‐based registration was performed using a splint containing radiopaque markers, while the marker‐free registration used natural teeth. The primary outcome assessed implant positioning accuracy via angular and linear deviations between preoperative and postoperative implant positions in CBCT. Patients were also surveyed about the intraoperative experience and oral health impact profile (OHIP).

Results

The global linear deviations at the implant platform (0.82 ± 0.28 and 0.85 ± 0.41 mm) and apex (1.28 ± 0.34 and 0.85 (IQR: 0.64–1.50) mm) for the marker‐based and marker‐free groups respectively showed no significant difference. However, the angular deviation of the marker‐free group (2.77 ± 0.92) was significantly lower than the marker‐based group (4.28 ± 1.58). There was no significant difference in the mean postoperative OHIP scores between the two groups (p = .758), with scores of 2.74 ± 1.21 for marker‐based and 2.93 ± 2.18 for marker‐free groups, indicating mild oral health‐related impairment in both. Notably, patients in the marker‐free group showed significantly higher satisfaction (p = .031) with the treatment procedures.

Conclusions

D‐CAIS with a marker‐free registration method for single implantation in the anterior maxilla has advantages in improving implant placement accuracy and patients' satisfaction, without generating a significant increase in clinical time and expenses.
Information acquisition and dissemination among a sample of people who inject drugs in Australia
Authors: Sutherland Rachel , Peacock Amy , Crawford Sione , Holly Carol , Gava Peta , Dicka Jane , Manu Geoff , Byrne Jude
Published: November 2023

Introduction

This paper examines the acquisition and dissemination of harm reduction information among people who inject drugs, as well as preferred sources of information.

Methods

Data were obtained from 862 people who inject drugs, recruited from Australian capital cities for the 2021 Illicit Drug Reporting System. Multivariable regression analyses were performed to assess potential factors associated with knowledge sharing.

Results

Almost two‐fifths (37%) reported that they had received information about how to keep themselves safe when using drugs within the past 6 months. Reporting on their last occasion of receiving information, participants stated that it was commonly about injecting practices (56%), overdose prevention (26%) and injection‐related injuries (22%), and was mostly received from an alcohol and other drug worker (54%), followed by other health professional (24%) and social network (18%). Among those who reported receiving information, 50% shared this information with other people, predominantly with their social network: no factors were found to be significantly associated with sharing information. The majority reported that peer workers and/or people with lived experience would be the first person they would talk to for information about a range of topics (e.g., injecting/harm reduction practices, overdose prevention).

Discussion and Conclusions

Two in five participants had recently obtained information about how to keep themselves safe while using drugs, with half sharing this information with their social network. Peer workers were the preferred source of information, suggesting that the peer educator workforce should be expanded to embrace the capacities and expertise of people who inject drugs.
Estimation of integrated price elasticities for alcohol and tobacco in the United Kingdom using the living costs and food survey 2006–2017
Authors: Pryce Robert , Wilson Luke B. , Gillespie Duncan , Angus Colin , Morris Damon , Brennan Alan
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Evidence shows that price is an important policy lever in reducing consumption of alcohol and tobacco. However, there is little evidence of the cross‐price effect between alcohol and tobacco.

Methods

This paper uses an econometric model which estimates participation and consumption elasticities, on data from the UK Living Costs and Food Survey 2006–2017 and extends the literature by, for the first time, estimating joint price elasticities for disaggregated alcohol and tobacco products. This paper presents new price elasticities and compares them to the existing literature.

Results

The own‐price elasticity estimates are all negative for both participation and consumption. There is no pattern to the estimates of cross‐price elasticities. The elasticity estimates, when used in the Sheffield Tobacco and Alcohol Policy Model, produce bigger changes in consumption for the same change in price compared to other elasticity estimates in the existing literature.

Discussion and Conclusions

Consumption of alcohol and tobacco are affected by the prices of one another. Policymakers should bear this in mind when devising alcohol or tobacco pricing policies.
A model‐informed approach to accelerate the clinical development of cofrogliptin (HSK7653), a novel ultralong‐acting dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor
Authors: Cui Cheng , Cao Fangrui , Kong Iok Ian , Wu Qinghe , Li Fangqiong , Li Haiyan , Liu Dongyang
Published: November 2023

Aim

To employ a model‐informed drug development approach in facilitating decision making and expediting the clinical progress of cofrogliptin (HSK7653), a novel ultralong‐acting dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 (DPP‐4) inhibitor, for the treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2D) via a biweekly dosing regimen.

Methods

Firstly, a population pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics (PopPKPD) model was developed using PK and PD data from a single ascending dose study to simulate the PK and PD time profiles of HSK7653 after multiple doses. Secondly, model‐based meta‐analysis (MBMA) was performed on published clinical studies of Eastern Asian subjects for all DPP‐4 inhibitors. We hypothesized a consistent relationship between PK and DPP‐4 inhibition in both healthy individuals and in those with T2D, establishing a quantitative correlation between DPP‐4 inhibition and HbA1c. Finally, the predicted PK/DPP‐4 inhibition/HbA1c profiles were validated by T2D patients in late clinical trials.

Results

The PK/DPP‐4 inhibition/HbA1c profiles of T2D patients treated with HSK7653 matched the modelled data. Our PopPKPD and MBMA models predict multiple ascending dosing PK and PD characteristics from single ascending dosing data, as well as the long‐term efficacy in T2D patients, based on healthy subjects.

Conclusions

Successful waiver approval for the phase 2b dose‐finding study was achieved through model‐informed recommendations, facilitating the clinical development of HSK7653 and other DPP‐4 inhibitors.
Factors that determine glucose variability, defined by the coefficient of variation in continuous glucose monitoring values, in a Chinese population with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Wen Xi , Yang Huijun , Yang Man , Tao Wenyu , Chen Jiaoli , Zhao Shanshan , Yin Mingliu , Zhou Xing , Yang Ying , Li Yiping
Published: November 2023

Aims

To elucidate the clinical determinants of the coefficient of variation (CV) of glucose by analysing the pancreatic β‐cell function of subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

A total of 716 Chinese subjects with T2DM were included. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) was used to assess blood glucose, and the CV was calculated. C‐peptide concentration at 0, 0.5, 1, 2 and 3 hours (Cp0h, Cp0.5h, Cp1h, Cp2h and Cp3h, respectively) was measured after a standard 100‐g steamed bun meal test to assess pancreatic β‐cell function. The determinants of glucose variability defined by the CV of CGM values were explored from two perspectives: the CV of qualitative variables and the CV of quantitative variables.

Results

Our data revealed that C‐peptide concentration (Cp0h, Cp0.5h, Cp1h, Cp2h, Cp3h), area under the curve for C‐peptide concentration at 0.5 and 3 hours (AUC‐Cp0.5h and AUC‐Cp3h) decreased with increasing CV quartile (P < 0.05). The CV was negatively correlated with homeostatic model assessment of β‐cell function index, C‐peptide concentration at all timepoints, and AUC‐Cp0.5h and AUC‐Cp3h (P < 0.001). Quantile regression analysis showed that AUC‐Cp0.5h had an overall negative effect on the CV in the 0.05 to 0.95 quartiles, and AUC‐Cp3h tended to have a negative effect on the CV in the 0.2 to 0.65 quartiles. After adjusting for confounders, multinomial logistic regression showed that each 1‐unit increase in AUC‐Cp0.5h was associated with a 31.7% reduction in the risk of unstable glucose homeostasis (CV > 36%; P = 0.036; odds ratio 0.683; 95% confidence interval 0.478‐0.976). We also identified the AUC‐Cp0.5h (0.735 ng/mL) and AUC‐Cp3h (13.355 ng/mL) cut‐off values for predicting unstable glucose homeostasis (CV >36%) in T2DM subjects.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that impaired pancreatic β‐cell function may be a clinical determining factor of CV of glucose in people with T2DM.
How to improve tax compliance by wealthy individuals? Evidence from Uganda
Authors: Santoro Fabrizio , Waiswa Ronald
Published: November 2023

Motivation

Appropriately taxing the richest is a priority for African governments, which need tax revenues to invest and pay for public services. In Uganda, the revenue authority launched a unit in 2015 to monitor the tax affairs of high‐net‐worth individuals (HNWIs) and very important persons (VIPs), 393 individuals in all. The unit combined persuasion, assistance, and enforcement.

Purpose

To establish the extent to which the unit was able to improve tax compliance by the rich.

Methods and approach

In collaboration with the Uganda Revenue Authority, this study builds on taxpayer‐level data on tax filing and payment. The analysis employs a standard difference‐in‐difference framework, exploiting the timing of the launch of the unit (September 2015). It also makes use of the existence of the target group of 393 wealthy individuals and a group of another 1,731 potentially wealthy individuals who have been identified but never included in the unit's operations owing to limited resources. We match the groups using a propensity score algorithm.

Findings

The unit has been only partially successful. While the unit increased the probability of filing a return, especially by VIPs, taxpayers declared less on different measures, with no impacts on tax liability. On tax payments, only a small and significant positive impact was found, again due to complex offsetting responses across tax categories. This study also measures the spillover effect on companies controlled by the richest—again documenting complex compensating reactions and no meaningful impacts on tax take. Lastly, while deterrence is more effective for HNWIs, taxpayer assistance and public shaming are more relevant for VIPs.

Policy implications

This case shows that the rich can be identified and their tax monitored. It also shows the limits of what can be achieved. The Uganda unit lacked staff; it needed twice as many people to monitor the tax of wealthy persons adequately. Moreover, it was hamstrung by the difficulties of sharing data between different departments of the Tax Authority, among government agencies, and between government and key agents such as banks. Ultimately, the unit did not have the staff and data to challenge the tax avoidance schemes deployed by wealthy people and the companies they own.
Sudan's health sector partnership: From confined progression to openness and hope to uncertain demise
Authors: Aweesha Huzeifa , Hurtig Anna‐Karin , Pulkki‐Brännström Anni‐Maria , Sebastian Miguel San
Published: November 2023

Motivation

Despite the signature of the 2005 Paris Declaration on Aid Effectiveness and subsequent adoption of the principles of effective development co‐operation (EDC) for better health co‐operation, there is a gap in documenting the challenges to implement these commitments at country level. Sudan represents an interesting case study. The country adopted a local health compact in 2014, but for much of the time since the regime had been under sanction. Sudan witnessed a revolution in 2018, followed by a counter‐coup in 2021.

Purpose: We aim to explore the evolution of the relationships, perspectives, and compliance of Sudan's health sector partners in terms of the EDC principles of ownership, alignment, and harmonization, while accounting for underlying processes and context changes between 2015 and 2022.

Methods and approach

We collected data through two rounds of interviews, in 2015 (16) and 2022 (8), with stakeholders within the Sudan Health Sector Partnership. We used the framework method for data analysis where responses are coded and then sorted into themes.

Findings

Before the 2019 revolution, co‐operation was progressive but restricted, with civil society marginalized and a dominating government. The EDC principles, especially ownership, were misused and misaligned with national priorities driven by donors' interests and conditions.

The transition period (post‐revolution) witnessed an influx of partners, characterized by their openness, but unstable leadership and subsequent changes in priorities led to wasted opportunities.

Following the coup, donors adopted a no‐contact policy towards the de facto government. The expectation was that civil society organizations would replace the government as the main implementers. Overall, limited co‐ordination capacity and no sustainability measures were present throughout.

Policy implications

Much of what was observed was due to the often complicated and difficult context of the governance of Sudan. However, general issues arose, including the government's ability to co‐ordinate policy and implementation; the need for stable, legitimate arrangements; and the need to define the role of civil society and empower civil society organizations. In a complex and volatile context, revisiting partners' commitments through joint compact reviews and transparent EDC progress monitoring is crucial.
Why the Turks? On the etymological method in Fredegar's account of the Trojan Franks
Authors: Verkholantsev Julia
Published: November 2023

This article is part of a larger project that seeks to understand the role of the etymological method in historical writings. I analyse the account of the Trojan origin of the Franks in the Chronicle of Fredegar and demonstrate that Fredegar uses the etymological method as an epistemological resource and a catalyst to the narrative, and that taking this into account sheds light on some of Fredegar's narrative choices. Particularly, the use of the etymological method explains the extraordinary association of the Franks with the Turks, which has long puzzled historians. My conclusions advocate for an inclusive and methodologically careful consideration of etymological stories to understand the internal logic of medieval historical narratives and the methods that shape their messages. My reading suggests that Fredegar's is not a story of ethnic uniqueness but a scholarly account of kinship between the peoples of Eurasia.
Is there a relationship between opioid use and transient global amnesia?
Authors: Barash Jed A. , Parikh Megha , Ergas Rosa , DeMaria Alfred
Published: November 2023

Background and purpose

Opioid‐associated amnestic syndrome (OAS) and transient global amnesia (TGA) are conditions with clinical overlap. We therefore sought to determine whether opioid use might be associated with TGA.

Methods

Data from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health Syndromic Surveillance program were queried to ascertain the frequency of opioid use among emergency department (ED) encounters for TGA compared to that for all other ED visits between January 2019 and June 2023.

Results

A total of 13,188,630 ED visits were identified during the study period. Of 1417 visits for TGA, one visit met the exposure definition for opioid use. There were 13,187,213 visits for other indications, 57,638 of which were considered opioid‐exposed. The odds ratio for the relationship between opioid use and TGA was 0.16 (95% confidence interval 0.02, 1.14).

Conclusion

Despite the clinical overlap between OAS and TGA, surveillance data from ED visits in Massachusetts do not suggest that opioid use is a risk factor for TGA, indicating that OAS and TGA are distinct entities.
Predictive factors and scoring system for intravascular large B‐cell lymphoma among suspected cases: a single‐center retrospective analysis
Authors: Tanaka Miho , Miyagaki Tomomitsu , Okano Tatsuro , Takeuchi Sora , Kadono Takafumi
Published: November 2023

Background

Although the utility of random skin biopsies in the diagnosis of intravascular large B‐cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) has been confirmed, the patients who should undergo random skin biopsies remain unclear.

Objectives

To assess predictive factors for IVLBCL and establish a scoring system for the applicability of random skin biopsies.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective case–control study of IVLBCL‐suspected patients who underwent random skin biopsies between April 2010 and March 2022. We compared the general symptoms, imaging findings, and laboratory findings between IVLBCL and non‐IVLBCL cases.

Results

Fifty‐three patients were enrolled in this study. Eight patients were diagnosed with IVLBCL, and 35 patients were diagnosed with other diseases. The final diagnosis was unclear in 10 patients. There were no significant differences in the frequency of general symptoms and imaging findings between IVLBCL and non‐IVLBCL cases. Among laboratory findings, IVLBCL cases showed significantly higher serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and soluble IL‐2 receptor (sIL‐2R) levels and lower platelet counts than non‐IVLBCL cases. We established a scoring system to predict IVLBCL by using these three parameters. The cut‐off values were as follows: serum LDH level, 256 IU/l; serum sIL‐2R level, 2011 U/ml; and platelet count, 107 × 109/l. IVLBCL was not included in patients with scores of <2. The probabilities of IVLBCL in patients with scores 2 and 3 were 18% and 86%, respectively.

Conclusions

Our simple scoring system can help clinicians determine the applicability of random skin biopsies in IVLBCL‐suspected cases.