bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Death of a reviewer or death of peer review integrity? the challenges of using AI tools in peer reviewing and the need to go beyond publishing policies
Authors: Mollaki Vasiliki
Published: January 2024

Peer review facilitates quality control and integrity of scientific research. Although publishing policies have adapted to include the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, such as Chat Generative Pre-trained Transformer (ChatGPT), in the preparation of manuscripts by authors, there is a lack of guidelines or policies on whether peer reviewers can use such tools. The present article highlights the lack of policies on the use of AI tools in the peer review process (PRP) and argues that we need to go beyond policies by creating transparent procedures that will enable journals to investigate allegations of non-compliance and take decisions that will protect the integrity of the peer review system. Reviewers found to violate relevant policies must be excluded from the process to safeguard the integrity of the peer review system.
Diagnosing cancer-associated ischemic stroke: A systematic review of hematological biomarkers
Authors: Erritzøe-Jervild Mai , Wenstrup Jonathan , Hougaard Bjørn Holger , Kruuse Christina
Published: January 2024

Background and aim:

Patients suffering from cancer are reported to have an increased risk of ischemic stroke (IS). We aimed to identify cancer-associated biomarkers found to differentiate between IS associated with cancer from those not associated with cancer.

Summary of review:

We performed a systematic search of PubMed and EMBASE databases according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The study is reported in PROSPERO (#CRD42022355129). In total, 5563 papers were screened, of which 49 papers were included. Seven biomarkers were identified which had the potential to differentiate between patients who had cancer or stroke or both conditions. D-dimer was the most frequently monitored biomarker, and high levels were significantly associated with cancer-related strokes in (42/44) studies. Fibrinogen was significantly associated with cancer-related strokes in 11/27 studies. A higher level of C-reactive protein, investigated in 19 studies, was associated with cancer-related strokes, but conclusive multivariate analysis was not performed. Finally, the four cancer-associated antigens CA125, CA153, CA199, and carcinoembryonic antigen were only reported on in three to six studies, respectively. These studies all originated from the Guangxi province in China. CA125 was associated with an increased risk of IS in four of six studies.

Conclusion:

Increased D-dimer seems associated with cancer-related IS. CRP may also be a candidate as a cancer-associated stroke biomarker, but this requires further verification. Fibrinogen and the more specific cancer biomarkers have not yet been proven helpful for detecting cancer-related strokes.
Revisiting an Anti-Machiavellian model for teacher education: A critical perspective
Authors: Kamali Jaber
Published: January 2024

This study examines a borrowed concept from politics, that is, Machiavellian, in second language teacher education (SLTE), develops an anti-model to it, and explores teacher educators’ viewpoints about the developed model with an eye on critical aspects of teacher education, that is, Anti-Machiavellian. To do so, the literature on Machiavellian thoughts was studied thoroughly based on which a model was proposed and interview questions were constructed. Then, five Iranian expert teacher educators were selected based on non-random convenient sampling to attend individual extensive semi-structured interviews in which they discussed their opinions about the principles of Anti-Machiavellian SLTE. Adopting a thematic analysis, the data revealed that Anti-Machiavellian SLTE associates closely with critical teacher education where teacher education is context-specific, responsive to learners, dialogically engaging, reflective, and practical. The results of the in-depth interviews also indicated that Anti-Machiavellian SLTE is compatible with critical teacher education which, albeit widely advertised, is hard to practice.
Chemical Correlation of Cistendiol Obtained from Cativic Acid in Two Different Pathways
Authors: Calderón-Rangel David , García-Gutiérrez Hugo A , del Río Rosa E , Thomassigny Christine
Published: January 2024

Objective

This study aims to convert cativic acid, which was isolated from Ageratina jocotepecana, into cistendiol (5), an analog of cistenolic acid isolated from Cistus symphytifolius. The position of hydroxyl at C-7 in compound 5 could be achieved by applying the Schenck reaction with singlet oxygen (1O2) through photooxidation reaction of 6. Additionally, epoxidation reaction of 1, followed by further reduction and acid treatment, can serve as another pathway to obtain compound 5.

Methods

Cativic acid was isolated from Ageratina jocotepecana flowers, reduction methodology was realized with THF and LiAlH4, epoxidation reaction was carried out with mCPBA in CH2Cl2 and K2CO3, oxidation of alcohol with PCC in CH2Cl2 and MgSO4, photooxidation reaction was realized with blue and white light using singlet oxygen (1O2) and photosensitizers such as eosin, methylene blue and Ru(bpy)3(PF6)2 in acetonitrile. Geometry optimizations for transition states were performed using MMFF94 with Monte Carlo protocol, and GDFT was used B3LYP/DGDZVP level of theory with Gaussian 09.

Results

Cistendiol was synthesized by photooxidation reaction of 6 with Ru(bpy)3(PF6)2 and air such oxidant with a ratio of 8:1, while epoxidation of 1 further reduction and acid treatment afforded cistendiol with a ratio of 9:1, the ratio was determined by NMR, additionally the global minimum energy structures GDFT calculated values supports the results described by NMR ratio. The stereochemistry was also confirmed by NOESY experiment and the comparison is in agreement with literature data.

Conclusion

Herein, we described the conversion of cativic acid isolated from Ageratina jocotepecana employing a new photooxidation methodology and classic epoxidation techniques, to produce an analog of cistenolic acid isolated from Cistus symphytifolius. The results, which include Supplemental material, enable comparison of stereochemistry, specifically the 13 S for C-13 of Ageratina jocotepecana with other compounds such as cistenolic or salvic acid, which had been the subject of study by researchers.
From Tradition to Transformation: The Social Entrepreneurial Journey of Japanese Women
Authors: Nakamura Yoshie Tomozumi , Horimoto Mayuko , Hinshaw Jessica
Published: January 2024

The purpose of the study is to understand how Japanese women become social entrepreneurs. The challenges in fostering women’s entrepreneurship include socio-cultural traditional views on women’s roles and expectations and insufficient support systems. Despite such challenges, the rise of Japanese women as social entrepreneurs has been observed in recent years as a unique response to natural disasters and crisis situations, such as the Tohoku earthquake in 2011 and the Kumamoto earthquake in 2016. Women felt the need to make positive changes and assist their country to build back. However, limited research exists that examines Japanese women social entrepreneurs’ development throughout their lives. Women social entrepreneurs may have gone through critically reflective moments through significant life events, which can eventually change the course of their professional paths. The methods of the study include in-depth, individual interviews with five women entrepreneurs, field observations, and a review of documents, including women’s organization websites, news articles, and social media. These findings provide both practical and scholarly insights that can be useful for the field of adult education and human resource development and women’s studies, highlighting how women maneuver challenging conditions, and how they effectively learn and transition from such challenges to become successful social entrepreneurs.
Economic Inequality and Unfairness Evaluations of Income Distribution Negatively Predict Political and Social Trust: Evidence From Latin America Over 23 Years
Authors: García-Sánchez Efraín , García-Castro Juan Diego , Willis Guillermo B. , Rodríguez-Bailón Rosa
Published: January 2024

Research has produced mixed results on the relationship between economic inequality and social and political trust. These studies overrepresent developed countries, cross-sectional designs, and overlook the role of subjective evaluations of inequality. We use 13 waves from 18 Latin American countries over 23 years (above 250,000 participants) to examine the association between structural inequality and fairness evaluations with political and social trust. Multilevel regression analyses for comparative longitudinal surveys suggest that within-country changes in economic inequality over time are negatively associated with political and social trust. However, between-country inequality was negatively related to social trust but not political trust. In addition, fairness evaluations of inequality were positively related to social and political trust. Exploratory analyses revealed that fairness evaluations mediated the negative association between economic inequality and political and social trust. We discussed that fairness evaluations of inequality may explain why inequality affects social and political trust.
Political Ideology and Attitudinal Ambivalence: Investigating the Role of Ideological Extremity
Authors: Burger Axel M.
Published: January 2024

Are individual differences in political ideology associated with inclinations to hold more or less ambivalent attitudes? Extant research on the linear association of political ideology with attitudinal ambivalence yielded inconsistent findings. The present research tested the hypotheses (a) that the association of political ideology with attitudinal ambivalence is curvilinear with lower levels of ambivalence at both extremes of the ideological spectrum and (b) that higher political interest is associated with lower levels of attitudinal ambivalence. It used data from large and demographically diverse electoral surveys in a set of three studies (Study 1: N = 13,808; Study 2: N = 6,528; Study 3: N = 4,789) that focused on attitudes toward political candidates (Studies 1 and 2) as well as political parties (Study 3) in Germany. Overall, the results support both hypotheses even when general attitudes toward the politicians and parties are controlled in the analyses.
Surgical management of tibia refracture with a bent intramedullary nail: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Bouaicha Walid , Jlidi Mohamed , Sioud Amine , Mallek Karim , Nouicer Saffet , Jaziri Salma , Achref Abdennadher , Daas Selim
Published: January 2024

Intramedullary nailing is the gold standard for long bone fractures in the lower limbs. Fractures of the tibia with bending of the intramedullary nail is a very uncommon complication. Removing a bent nail is an unpredictable and challenging procedure for any trauma surgeon. We report the case of a 34-year-old man presenting a refractured tibia with a bent intramedullary nail following a motor vehicle accident. We describe the management of this patient as well as a substantial review of the literature to depict the peculiarities of this entity compared to its more commonly reported femoral counterpart. When approaching a deformed tibia nail, standard extraction techniques should be attempted and are more likely to be successful than in deformed femoral nails.
Profiles of digital health literacy among university students and its association with mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic: A latent profile analysis
Authors: Ning Liangwen , Zheng Zhou , Liu Minghui , Gao Shang , Yang Xin , Bi Jiasi , Yu Xihe , Yi Dahai
Published: January 2024

Objective

Investigating the digital health literacy of university students can facilitate their effective acquisition of health information and adoption of appropriate protective behaviors. This study aims to explore the subtypes of digital health literacy among university students during the COVID-19 pandemic and their association with mental health outcomes.

Methods

From 17 November to 14 December 2022, a stratified random sampling approach was used to conduct an online questionnaire survey on digital health literacy, fear of COVID-19, and depression status among students at Jilin University, China. A total of 1060 valid responses were obtained in the survey. Latent profile analysis identified subtypes of digital health literacy and linear regression analyses were used to examine the association of digital health literacy to the mental health outcome.

Results

Three latent profiles were identified: Profile 1—low digital health literacy (n = 66, 6.23%), Profile 2—moderate digital health literacy (n = 706, 66.60%), and Profile 3—high digital health literacy (n = 288, 27.17%). Results from linear regression demonstrated a negative correlation between digital health literacy and fear of COVID-19 ( B = −2.954, P < 0.001) as well as depression ( B = −2.619, P < 0.001) among university students.

Conclusions

This study indicated that the majority of university students exhibit a moderate level of digital health literacy during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, the study validates a negative correlation between digital health literacy and mental health among university students.
Toward telemedical diagnostics—clinical evaluation of a robotic examination system for emergency patients
Authors: Berlet Maximilian , Fuchtmann Jonas , Krumpholz Roman , Naceri Abdeldjallil , Macari Daniela , Jähne-Schon Christoph , Haddadin Sami , Friess Helmut , Feussner Hubertus , Wilhelm Dirk
Published: January 2024

Introduction

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has affected global public healthcare for several years. Numerous medical professionals have been infected since the outbreak in 2019, resulting in a shortage of healthcare providers. Since traditional personal protective wear was insufficient to eliminate the virus transmission reliably, new strategies to avoid cross-infection were imperative while enabling high-quality medical care. In the project ProteCT, we investigated the potential of robotic-assisted examination in providing medical examination via a telemedical approach.

Material and Methods

We constructed a fully functional examination cabin equipped with cameras, microphones, screens and robotic arms to evaluate usability and perception. Therefore, we conducted a preliminary study with 10 healthy volunteers and 10 physicians to gain first insights and optimize the setup. In a second step, we performed telemedical examinations of actual patients from the local emergency department to compare the robotic approach with the classical method of measuring vital signs, auscultation, palpation and percussion.

Results

The preliminary study identified basic requirements, such as the need for force-feedback and telemedical training for physicians. In the main study, acceptance was high and most patients indicated they would use a telemedical system again. Our setup enabled the physician to make the same diagnoses as by classic examination in the emergency department in most cases.

Discussion

The potential acceptance of a telemedical system such as ProteCT is high. Robotic telemedical approaches could complement future healthcare beyond the Corona pandemic to reach rural areas or even war zones. Moreover, the daily clinical use of robotic telemedicine could improve patients’ safety, the quality of perioperative management and the workflow in any medical facility.

Conclusion

The development of telemedical and telerobotic systems is a multidisciplinary and complex challenge. However, acceptance of the proposed system was high among patients and physicians, indicating the potential use of similar systems for future healthcare.
The Effect of Psychological Empowerment on The Relationship Between Perceived Organizational Support and Career Satisfaction at Manufacturing Sector in Johor
Authors: Aziz Nora Maisarah Abdul , Abdul Wahab Shah Rollah , Shaari Roziana , Sarip Azlineer , Mohd Arif Lily Suriani
Published: January 2024

The fundamental of prioritizing employees’ career satisfaction is an essential agenda of an organization. Referring to the concept of career satisfaction in Malaysia, employees who are satisfied with their careers can influence organizational success and contribute to effective organizational performance. Thus, considering the aim of the present research, this study examines the mediation effect of psychological empowerment on the relationship between perceived organizational support and career satisfaction among operators at one manufacturing company in Johor. A cross-sectional survey was conducted by distributing questionnaires to 248 respondents, with only 202 returned. Later, the collected feedback was loaded into SPSS software for descriptive statistical analysis. Next, SmartPLS software was utilized to evaluate the inferential statistic to test the projected hypotheses. The result indicated that psychological empowerment could mediate the relationship between perceived organizational support on career satisfaction. Several recommendations were enclosed to the respective organization and future researchers to cater to the studied problems.
An Unpleasant Souvenir: Whipworm as an Incidental Finding During a Screening Colonoscopy
Authors: Bathobakae Lefika , Wilkinson Tyler , Yasin Saif , Bashir Rammy , Mateen Nargis , Yuridullah Ruhin , Cavanagh Yana , Baddoura Walid , Suh Jin
Published: January 2024

Trichuriasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by Trichuris trichiura that spreads through the ingestion of embryonated eggs in contaminated soil, water, or food. In nonendemic areas, T trichiura infestation is very rare and sporadic and is often diagnosed in immigrants from endemic countries such as the Philippines. Whipworms feed on human blood and also erode the colonic mucosa, thereby evoking an inflammatory response. In milder forms, trichuriasis can be asymptomatic and often an incidental diagnosis on screening colonoscopy. Heavily infested patients usually present with abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, tenesmus, chronic diarrhea, iron deficiency anemia, or stunted growth. T trichiura worms can be removed with biopsy forceps during a colonoscopy; however, most patients require a course of albendazole, mebendazole, or ivermectin. We describe a unique case of T trichiura as an incidental finding during a screening colonoscopy. The whipworms were retrieved using biopsy forceps and the patient was treated with albendazole. At the time of the colonoscopy, the patient did not exhibit any specific symptoms related to the worm infestation.
“Oh My Sleeping Child” … Narcolepsy Type 1 in a 22-Month-Old Boy
Authors: Giourgas Barbra , Morgan Alexandra , Bhatia Sonal
Published: January 2024

Pediatric narcolepsy is a complex disorder with unique diagnostic challenges. It is diagnosed with a combination of clinical presentation, polysomnogram with multiple sleep latency test (PSG with MSLT), and occasionally, hypocretin-1 (orexin) levels in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This report describes a 22-month-old boy experiencing excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) and frequent falls. The patient was subsequently diagnosed with narcolepsy using hypocretin-1 (orexin) levels. The intent of this report is to establish the utility of using hypocretin-1 (orexin) levels to diagnose narcolepsy type 1 in children who are too young to undergo PSG with MSLT. To our knowledge, there are no reports of narcolepsy in a patient this young. Early recognition and treatment of narcolepsy in children younger than age five may lead to a substantial impact on their cognitive development and minimize potential long- term complications.
Factors Associated With Food Insecurity Among a Community-Based Sample of Older Adults in a North Florida County
Authors: Crowther Vanessa B. , Davis Weaver Jullet , Green-Weir Robbya R. , Moton Brandon A. , Simmons Mary V. , Alexander Aurelia K. , Weatherspoon Marilyn A. , Nash Brittany , Jones Jian G. , Robinson Crystall
Published: January 2024

Food insecurity impacts the lives of 7.6 million U.S. adults aged 60 and older and is linked to numerous life challenges. This study examined the nature of food insecurity among community-based participants ≥65 years in a north Florida county and conceptualized food insecurity as encompassing the lack of food and individual adaptability. Thus, food insecurity was measured using three dependent variables: (1) worrying that food would run out, (2) cutting meal size or skipping meals, and (3) food not lasting. Logistic regression revealed that older participants, those with better-perceived health status, and those who were confident that they could find solutions to their problems had lower odds of reporting food insecurity. However, respondents who lived in low-income, low-access zip codes and those who received food assistance were more likely to report food insecurity. To improve outcomes and reduce healthcare disparities, solutions to food insecurity must vary in focus and approach.
“Homeless Life to Hopeful Life of Elderly Beggars”-: Before and After Rehabilitation: A Qualitative Approach
Authors: Srinivasan Indhumathi , Sahayam D Binu
Published: January 2024

This qualitative study explores the experiences of elderly beggars who transitioned from a life of homelessness to a hopeful life through rehabilitation programs. The aim is to gain insights into their lived experiences, challenges faced during their homeless phase, and the transformative effects of rehabilitation interventions. The study employs Case study approach applying thematic analysis to capture the narratives of elderly individuals who have undergone rehabilitation. The data was collected directly from the elderly using purposive sampling method. The in-depth interview guide was used to collect data from 30 elderly people in Atchayam Beggars Rehabilitation centre at Erode. From the findings, it was clear that homeless phase is characterized by extreme poverty, social exclusion, health issues, and a lack of basic necessities. The elderly beggars face numerous challenges, including stigma, discrimination, and a sense of hopelessness. The study documents the transformative journey of the elderly beggars, highlighting the positive changes they experience after rehabilitation. These changes include improved physical and mental well-being, restored self-esteem, regained social connections, and the acquisition of new skills. The elderly experience a renewed sense of hope, dignity, and empowerment as they move from vulnerability to independence and self-sufficiency. The study also highlights the significance of destigmatization efforts and community involvement in fostering the successful reintegration of elderly beggars into society. The study also contributes to the existing literature by shedding light on the possibilities for positive change and the journey from homeless life to a hopeful life among this vulnerable population.
A Collaborative Approach to Improving Care Outcomes for Residents in Assisted Living
Authors: Morgan Jennifer Craft , Jason Kendra J. , Kemp Candace L. , Bhattacharyya Kallol Kumar
Published: January 2024

Purpose: Assisted Living (AL) residents are embedded in “care convoys” comprised of a dynamic network of formal and informal care partners. Using the convoys of care model—a multi-level framework connecting care convoy properties to resident outcomes—we examined healthcare management and communication between convoy members. We recommend strategies to engage primary care in supporting collaboration, communication, and consensus-building for older adults and their convoys. Methods: Data were collected from the longitudinal study, Convoys of Care: Developing Collaborative Care Partnerships in AL. Fifty residents and their care convoy members ( N = 169) were followed in eight AL homes in Georgia over 2 years. Original data were analyzed using Grounded Theory Methods of qualitative data, including formal and informal interviewing, participant observation, and record review. Results: The convoys of care model provide an innovative perspective that will assist providers in supporting AL residents and their care partners to achieve better care outcomes. Findings demonstrate the utility of understanding the structure and function of social resources and implications for improving healthcare outcomes. Conclusion: This research informs the work of physicians and mid-level providers with patients in AL by providing strategies to uncover specific social determinants of health. Recommendations for use in patient encounters are enumerated.
Leadership in special contexts: Introduction to the special issue
Authors: Hernández-Linares Remedios , López-Fernández María Concepción , Kellermanns Franz , Pina e Cunha Miguel
Published: January 2024

JEL Classification: L20; M10; M12; M50
Approval status of essential therapeutic drugs for systemic sclerosis versus that of drugs for rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Moon Ki Won , Hwang Soo-Hee , Yun Jieun , Lee Eun Bong
Published: January 2024

Objective:

Systemic sclerosis, a rare disease characterized by chronic multisystem fibrosis, requires lifelong management, necessitating enough insurance coverage for the patient. Official drug approval is the first step to ensuring that the drug is covered by insurance. In this study, we investigated the approval status of essential therapeutic drugs for systemic sclerosis across eight countries and compared it with that of drugs for rheumatoid arthritis.

Methods:

The essential therapeutic drug lists for systemic sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis were taken from the guidelines of the American College of Rheumatology and the European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology. Official drug approval status for the selected drugs was confirmed by searching representative Internet databases from eight countries: the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Switzerland, Japan, and the Republic of Korea.

Results:

A total of 21 and 16 drugs were selected for systemic sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis, respectively. The drug approval rates of the 21 drugs for systemic sclerosis varied among countries. Most drugs used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension, which were developed recently and are expensive, are approved by most countries; however, most older drugs—which are still essential for management of Raynaud’s phenomenon, digital ulcers, interstitial lung disease, and skin fibrosis—are not approved by most countries. By contrast, almost all of the 16 drugs used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, whether old or new, are approved by most countries.

Conclusion:

Approval rates for drugs used to treat systemic sclerosis, a rare disease, are much lower than those for drugs used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Thus, approval rates of essential therapeutic drugs for systemic sclerosis need to improve, which will benefit patients by increasing the number of drugs covered by insurance.
Experimental analysis of blended nanocomposites processed using compression molded microwave process
Authors: Arora Gaurav
Published: January 2024

Microwave irradiation has emerged as a versatile and efficient method for synthesizing polymer nanocomposites, offering advantages such as selectivity, speed, and effectiveness in heating materials. This study explores the blending of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and polypropylene (PP) with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) using microwave processing. The nanocomposites were characterized for their mechanical properties through tensile and fracture toughness tests. Results indicate that LDPE/CNT blended with PP/CNT pellets exhibited improved Young’s modulus and fracture toughness, while LDPE/CNT blended with PP/CNT powder showed enhanced stiffness and fracture toughness. The critical stress intensity factor ( KIC) increased with higher proportions of PP in both cases, signifying improved crack resistance. XRD and SEM analyses confirmed enhanced crystallinity and proper bonding between polymers and CNTs. Overall, this study demonstrates the potential of microwave processing in producing nanocomposites with enhanced mechanical properties, offering a promising avenue for engineering applications.
The Mediterranean Diet as a Potential Solution to the Gut Microbiome Dysbiosis in Psoriasis Patients
Authors: Kranyak Allison , Haran Kathryn , Smith Payton , Johnson Chandler , Liao Wilson , Bhutani Tina
Published: January 2024

Background

Adherence to a Mediterranean Diet (MeD) has been associated with lower disease severity in patients with psoriasis. However, the mechanism behind how this diet may lead to disease modification remain understudied. Recent studies have revealed dysbiosis of the gut microbiome in patients with psoriasis suggestive of inflammation and altered immune regulation. Diet affects the gut microbiome and this review aims to evaluate whether correcting this dysbiosis may be one theoretical mechanism by which the MeD may be associated with lower psoriasis severity.

Methods

A literature search of the PubMed database was conducted for the terms 1) ‘psoriasis’ and ‘microbiome’ or ‘microbiota,’ and 2) ‘Mediterranean diet’ and ‘microbiome’ or ‘microbiota’ with manual screening for relevant articles. In total, we identified 9 relevant primary research studies investigating the gut microbiome in patients with psoriasis and 16 relevant primary research studies investigating changes in the microbiota for those consuming a MeD.

Results

Though varying in exact levels of certain bacteria, studies analyzing the microbiome in psoriasis revealed dysbiosis. Those analyzing the effect of the Mediterranean diet on the microbiome revealed beneficial changes, including alleviating some of the same alterations seen in the microbiome of those with psoriasis.

Conclusion

Microbiota change is a possible mechanism why the MeD has previously been associated with lower psoriasis severity.
Introduction: Fallen from grace? the legacy and state of Southern African conservation
Authors: Thakholi Lerato , Koot Stasja , Büscher Bram
Published: January 2024

For many decades, southern Africa has been at the forefront of global conservation paradigms and practices, ranging from protected area models and community-based conservation to transfrontier parks and, more recently, the wildlife economy. A key goal of many of these was to meet conservation and development goals, something that often proved elusive. In fact, what has been consistent across these conservation strategies is a continuation of many environmental and, especially, socio-economic and racial injustices. Currently, a further increase of both conventional and novel capitalist conservation initiatives—including wildlife estates, different tourism activities and wildlife breeding—seems to further intensify rather than ameliorate existing uneven and unjust conditions. This introduction preludes some of the most important recent and contemporary dynamics in southern African conservation addressed in this special issue. Titled Fallen from grace? The legacy and state of southern African conservation, the papers in this special issue reflect on these dynamics and ask whether the global significance of southern African conservation has crumbled under the weight of its own contradictions, or whether it can still turn the tide. Pushing theoretical discussions on the links between environmental injustice, race, labour, power, inequality and conservation, we argue that the contributions do not merely critique conservation in southern Africa for failing to live up to its promises; together they question the very sustainability of the entire enterprise and the ideologies on which it is based. This is important because some conservationists continue to laud the region as a shining example for biodiversity conservation globally.
The Influences of AI and Emerging Technologies on the Imagery Stock Industry as Exemplified by the Visual China Group
Authors: Wang Jun , Liang Jiebing
Published: January 2024

We review the technology-driven attribution of business models at different stages of the imagery stock industry and their intrinsic regularities. We take Visual China Group’s (VCG) business development over the past two decades as a timeline. This paper analyses the phenomenon by focusing on the emerging technology family represented by AI technology. It explores the theoretical origins, future outlook, and risk prediction based on experience. We try to induce the development of the industry from representative cases, on the one hand, highlighting the opportunities for efficiency leapfrogging due to the contribution of emerging technologies to productivity and, on the other hand, rethinking the challenges of business ethics, business models and governance mechanisms. This research proposed to implement research on digital governance mechanisms based on blockchain technology. It explored the production relations of the emerging media industry, which is based on the “governance of technology by technology”.
The Effects of Placental Location on Maternal and Neonatal Outcomes: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Babayan Arthur , Hellmann Rivka , Struk Iryna , Roberts Marie-Claire
Published: January 2024

Objective:

Published research exists that investigates placental location, as well as maternal and fetal outcomes. It is posited that placental location could be an indicator of subsequent maternal and or infant outcomes that could be identified and proactively treated. The aim of this study was to determine whether indeed there is an association between placental location and specific maternal or fetal outcomes.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective chart review was conducted on 361 women, who delivered and had obstetric sonograms in a New York academic hospital, between June 2019 and December 2020. The study variables compared to placental location were maternal demographics, substance use during pregnancy, body mass index, blood type, parity, prenatal care, rupture of membranes, mode of delivery, postpartum hemorrhage, systolic/diastolic (S/D) ratio of the umbilical artery, placental location, gestational age at delivery, birth weight, Apgar scores (1 and 5 minutes), and fetal gender.

Results:

Statistical significance was appreciated in the 5-minute Apgar score category between anterior and posterior placentas ( P = .03).

Conclusion:

Further prospective research is needed to determine whether different placental locations indeed has an effect on maternal or neonatal outcomes, in which case women may benefit from more intensive pregnancy monitoring.
Lactate administration improves laboratory parameters in murine models of iron overload
Authors: Liu Wei , Wu Yue , Wei Huaiqing , Ma Juan , Feng Wenya , Yang Qiuyuan , Zhang Shuping , Ganz Tomas , Liu Sijin
Published: January 2024

Current iron overload therapeutics have inherent drawbacks including perpetuated low hepcidin. Here, we unveiled that lactate, a potent hepcidin agonist, effectively reduced serum and hepatic iron levels in mouse models of iron overload with an improved erythropoiesis in β-thalassemic mice.
Prediction of outcomes for high-count monoclonal B lymphocytosis using an epigenetic and immunogenetic signature
Authors: Abdelbaky Salma B. , Giacopelli Brian , Rabe Kari G. , Yamaguchi Kyoko , Wu Yue-Zhong , Yan Huihuang , Shanafelt Tait D. , Parikh Sameer A. , Ding Wei , Hampel Paul J. , Brown Sochilt , Cerhan James R. , Vachon Celine M. , Kay Neil E. , Hanson Curtis A. , Parker Alexander S. , Braggio Esteban , Slager Susan L. , Oakes Christopher C.
Published: January 2024

Monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis (MBL) progresses to chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) requiring therapy at 1% to 5% per year. Improved prediction of progression would greatly benefit individuals with MBL. Patients with CLL separate into 3 distinct epigenetic subtypes (epitypes) with high prognostic significance, and recently the intermediate epitype has been shown to be enriched for high-risk immunoglobulin lambda variable (IGLV) 3-21 rearrangements, impacting outcomes for these patients. Here, we employed this combined strategy to generate the epigenetic and light chain immunoglobulin (ELCLV3-21) signature to classify 219 individuals with MBL. The ELCLV3-21 high-risk signature distinguished MBL individuals with a high probability of progression (39.9% and 71.1% at 5 and 10 years, respectively). ELCLV3-21 improved the accuracy of predicting time to therapy for individuals with MBL compared with other established prognostic indicators, including the CLL international prognostic index (c-statistic, 0.767 vs 0.668, respectively). Comparing ELCLV3-21 risk groups in MBL vs a cohort of 226 patients with CLL revealed ELCLV3-21 high-risk individuals with MBL had significantly shorter time to therapy (P = .003) and reduced overall survival (P = .03) compared with ELCLV3-21 low-risk individuals with CLL. These results highlight the power of the ELCLV3-21 approach to identify individuals with a higher likelihood of adverse clinical outcome and may provide a more accurate approach to classify individuals with small B-cell clones.
Surface acoustic wave actuated plasmonic signal amplification in a plasmonic waveguide
Authors: Gupta Rohit , Barman Kuntal , Lee Liang-Yun , Chauhan Anuj , Huang Jian-Jang
Published: January 2024

Enhancement of nanoscale confinement in the subwavelength waveguide is a concern for advancing future photonic interconnects. Rigorous innovation of plasmonic waveguide-based structure is crucial in designing a reliable on-chip optical waveguide beyond the diffraction limit. Despite several structural modifications and architectural improvements, the plasmonic waveguide technology is far from reaching its maximum potential for mass-scale applications due to persistence issues such as insufficient confined energy and short propagation length. This work proposes a new method to amplify the propagating plasmons through an external on-chip surface acoustic signal. The gold–silicon dioxide (Au-SiO2) interface, over Lithium Niobate (LN) substrate, is used to excite propagating surface plasmons. The voltage-varying surface acoustic wave (SAW) can tune the plasmonic confinement to a desired signal energy level, enhancing and modulating the plasmonic intensity. From our experimental results, we can increase the plasmonic intensity gain of 1.08 dB by providing an external excitation in the form of SAW at a peak-to-peak potential swing of 3 V, utilizing a single chip.
An overlooked phenomenon: complex interactions of potential error sources on the quality of bacterial de novo genome assemblies
Authors: Rádai Zoltán , Váradi Alex , Takács Péter , Nagy Nikoletta Andrea , Schmitt Nicholas , Prépost Eszter , Kardos Gábor , Laczkó Levente
Published: January 2024

Background

Parameters adversely affecting the contiguity and accuracy of the assemblies from Illumina next-generation sequencing (NGS) are well described. However, past studies generally focused on their additive effects, overlooking their potential interactions possibly exacerbating one another’s effects in a multiplicative manner. To investigate whether or not they act interactively on de novo genome assembly quality, we simulated sequencing data for 13 bacterial reference genomes, with varying levels of error rate, sequencing depth, PCR and optical duplicate ratios.

Results

We assessed the quality of assemblies from the simulated sequencing data with a number of contiguity and accuracy metrics, which we used to quantify both additive and multiplicative effects of the four parameters. We found that the tested parameters are engaged in complex interactions, exerting multiplicative, rather than additive, effects on assembly quality. Also, the ratio of non-repeated regions and GC% of the original genomes can shape how the four parameters affect assembly quality.

Conclusions

We provide a framework for consideration in future studies using de novo genome assembly of bacterial genomes, e.g. in choosing the optimal sequencing depth, balancing between its positive effect on contiguity and negative effect on accuracy due to its interaction with error rate. Furthermore, the properties of the genomes to be sequenced also should be taken into account, as they might influence the effects of error sources themselves.
Clinical study on the necessity and feasibility of routine MRCP in patients with cholecystolithiasis before LC
Authors: Guo Xu , Fan Qing , Guo Yiman , Li Xinming , Hu Jili , Wang Zhuoyin , Wang Jing , Li Kai , Zhang Nengwei , Amin Buhe , Zhu Bin
Published: January 2024

Background

In the past quite a long time, intraoperative cholangiography(IOC)was necessary during laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). Now magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is the main method for diagnosing common bile duct stones (CBDS). Whether MRCP can replace IOC as routine examination before LC is still inconclusive. The aim of this study was to analyze the clinical data of patients undergoing LC for cholecystolithiasis, and to explore the necessity and feasibility of preoperative routine MRCP in patients with cholecystolithiasis.

Methods

According to whether MRCP was performed before operation, 184 patients undergoing LC for cholecystolithiasis in the Department of General Surgery, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University from January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2018 were divided into non-MRCP group and MRCP group for this retrospective study. The results of preoperative laboratory test, abdominal ultrasound and MRCP, biliary related comorbidities, surgical complications, hospital stay and hospitalization expenses were compared between the two groups.

Results

Among the 184 patients, there were 83 patients in non-MRCP group and 101 patients in MRCP group. In MRCP group, the detection rates of cholecystolithiasis combined with CBDS and common bile duct dilatation by MRCP were higher than those by abdominal ultrasound (P < 0.05). The incidence of postoperative complications in non-MRCP group (8.43%) was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than that in MRCP group (0%). There was no significant difference in hospital stay (P > 0.05), but there was significant difference in hospitalization expenses (P < 0.05) between the two groups. According to the stratification of gallbladder stone patients with CBDS, hospital stay and hospitalization expenses were compared, and there was no significant difference between the two groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

The preoperative MRCP can detect CBDS, cystic duct stones and anatomical variants of biliary tract that cannot be diagnosed by abdominal ultrasound, which is helpful to plan the surgical methods and reduce the surgical complications. From the perspective of health economics, routine MRCP in patients with cholecystolithiasis before LC does not increase hospitalization costs, and is necessary and feasible.
Association between lactate-to-albumin ratio and 28-days all-cause mortality in patients with sepsis-associated liver injury: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Yi Xiaona , Jin Dongcai , Huang Shanshan , Xie Zhenye , Zheng Meixia , Zhou Fen , Jin Yuhong
Published: January 2024

Background

The mortality rate of sepsis-associated liver injury (SALI) is relatively high, but there is currently no authoritative prognostic criterion for the outcome of SALI. Meanwhile, lactate-to-albumin ratio (LAR) has been confirmed to be associated with mortality rates in conditions such as sepsis, heart failure, and respiratory failure. However, there is a scarcity of research reporting on the association between LAR and SALI. This study aimed to elucidate the association between LAR and the 28-day mortality rate of SALI.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, data were obtained from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (v2.2). Adult patients with SALI were admitted to the intensive care unit in this study. The LAR level at admission was included, and the primary aim was to assess the relationship between the LAR and 28-day all-cause mortality.

Results

A total of 341 patients with SALI (SALI) were screened. They were divided into a survival group (241) and a non-survival group (100), and the 28-day mortality rate was 29.3%. Multivariable Cox regression analysis revealed that for every 1-unit increase in LAR, the 28-day mortality risk for SALI patients increased by 21%, with an HR of 1.21 (95% CI 1.11 ~ 1.31, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

This study indicates that in patients with SALI, a higher LAR is associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality within 28 days of admission. This suggests that LAR may serve as an independent risk factor for adverse outcomes in SALI patients.
Liver shape analysis using statistical parametric maps at population scale
Authors: Thanaj Marjola , Basty Nicolas , Cule Madeleine , Sorokin Elena P. , Whitcher Brandon , Bell Jimmy D. , Thomas E. Louise
Published: January 2024

Background

Morphometric image analysis enables the quantification of differences in the shape and size of organs between individuals.

Methods

Here we have applied morphometric methods to the study of the liver by constructing surface meshes from liver segmentations from abdominal MRI images in 33,434 participants in the UK Biobank. Based on these three dimensional mesh vertices, we evaluated local shape variations and modelled their association with anthropometric, phenotypic and clinical conditions, including liver disease and type-2 diabetes.

Results

We found that age, body mass index, hepatic fat and iron content, as well as, health traits were significantly associated with regional liver shape and size. Interaction models in groups with specific clinical conditions showed that the presence of type-2 diabetes accelerates age-related changes in the liver, while presence of liver fat further increased shape variations in both type-2 diabetes and liver disease.

Conclusions

The results suggest that this novel approach may greatly benefit studies aiming at better categorisation of pathologies associated with acute and chronic clinical conditions.
Estimating smoking-attributable lung cancer mortality in Chinese adults from 2000 to 2020: a comparison of three methods
Authors: Ai Feiling , Zhao Jian , Yang Wenyi , Wan Xia
Published: January 2024

Background

Smoking is a significant public health concern in China and a leading cause of lung cancer deaths among adults. This study aims to employ three methods to estimate smoking-attributable lung cancer mortality among Chinese adults from 2000 to 2020.

Methods

Population attributable fractions (PAFs) of lung cancer deaths caused by smoking were estimated using lagged smoking prevalence, Peto-Lopez, and dose–response relationship methods, separately. Smoking exposure was obtained from national tobacco surveys in China, and relative risks (RR) were derived from a meta-analysis of state-of-the-art studies among the Chinese population. Finally, we estimated the sex- and age-stratified smoking-attributable lung cancer deaths in Chinese population in 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015, and 2020.

Results

The PAFs estimated using 5- and 10-year lagged smoking prevalence method (45–47%) and Peto-Lopez method (46–47%) were similar, while PAFs calculated using the dose–response method were highest (47–58%). The PAFs were consistently higher in males than in females. Age-specific PAFs estimated by lagged smoking prevalence method (54–60%) and the Peto-Lopez method (57–61%) in males were similar and relatively stable, with slight decreases in older populations, while the dose–response relationship-based PAFs increased with age and fluctuated by year. By using the above methods, smoking-attributable lung cancer deaths were estimated to be 134,100, 134,600, 136,600, and 155,300 in 2000 increasing to 310,300, 301,100, 306,000, and 314,700 in 2020, respectively.

Conclusion

The estimation from dose–response methods could better reflect the smoking effect, however, high-quality data and accurate estimation of parameters are necessary.