bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Concurrent laparoscopic highly selective vagotomy with closure of duodenal ulcer perforations show good clinical results as primary repair alone
Authors: Park Ji-Ho , Lee Jin‑Kwon , Kim Dong-Hwan , Min Jae-Seok , Kim Tae-Han , Jung Eun-Jung , Park Taejin , Jang Jae Yool , Woo Jung-Woo , lee Han Shin , Park Miyeong , Jeong Sang-Ho
Published: October 2023

Objective

To compare clinical and operative results between laparoscopic primary repair (LPR) alone and LPR with highly selective vagotomy (LPR-HSV) in patients with duodenal ulcer perforation.

Methods

Clinical data from patients who underwent either LPR or LPR-HSV by resecting both sides of the neurovascular bundle using an ultrasonic or bipolar electrosurgical device for duodenal ulcer perforations, between 2010 and 2020, were retrospectively collected. Between-group differences in continuous and categorical variables were statistically analysed.

Results

Data from 184 patients (mean age, 49.6 years), who underwent either LPR ( n = 132) or LPR-HSV ( n = 52) were included. The mean operation time was significantly longer in the LPR-HSV group (116.5 ± 39.8 min) than in the LPR group (91.2 ± 33.3 min). Hospital stay was significantly shorter in the LPR-HSV group (8.6 ± 2.6 days) versus the LPR group (11.3 ± 7.1 days). The mean postoperative day of starting soft fluid diet was also significantly shorter in the LPR-HSV group (4.5 ± 1.4 days) than in the LPR group (5.6 ± 4 days). No between-group difference in morbidity rate was observed. The learning curve of the HSV procedure showed a stable procedure time after 10 operations.

Conclusions

LPR with HSV may be a safe and feasible procedure for selective cases who are at high risk for ulcer recurrence.
Impact of brief smoking cessation intervention on quitting rate and glycemic control in patients with diabetes: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ibrahim Albaroodi K.A. , Syed Sulaiman Syed Azhar , Awaisu Ahmed , Shafie Asrul Akmal
Published: October 2023

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the impact of a brief smoking cessation intervention among patients with diabetes.

Methods

This randomized interventional clinical trial involved patients with diabetes who smoked tobacco and attended the outpatient diabetes clinic at Penang Hospital, Malaysia. Participants were randomized into a control group that usual care for patients with diabetes, or an intervention group that received a 5-minute physician-delivered brief counseling session on tobacco cessation using the 5A’s strategy, in addition to usual care. Primary outcome measures were assessed over three visits (every 3–4 months) including mean glycated hemoglobin level, quitting rate, blood pressure, and mean number of cigarettes smoked per day.

Results

In total, 126 participants were finally enrolled in the study, with 63 patients each in the intervention and control groups. There was no significant difference between the two groups with respect to glycemic control, blood pressure, and quitting rate. However, patients in both groups reduced their cigarette consumption.

Conclusions

The present brief smoking cessation intervention did not result in better glycemic control, blood pressure, or quitting rates among patients with diabetes. This patient group may require more intensive guidance for better outcomes. Trial registration: This study is registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04864327); https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/results?pg=1&load=cart&id=NCT04864327 .
Perioperative management of a patient with haemophilia B and PSVT undergoing radiofrequency ablation: A case report
Authors: Gan Yu , Ma Liping , Fang Pihua
Published: October 2023

Haemophilia B is a rare inherited bleeding disorder in which patients have impaired coagulation. This study describes a patient with Haemophilia B and paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) who underwent radio frequency catheter ablation (RFCA). The perioperative replacement therapy with coagulation factor IX (FIX) was agreed upon after an interdisciplinary consultation involving a team of specialists in haematology, cardiovascular medicine and cardiothoracic surgery. There were no obvious bleeding points or complications during the perioperative period following the treatment, nor recurrence of PSVT within a three-year follow-up period. In summary, RFCA can be performed safely in patients with haemophilia B on the premise of developing an individualized perioperative exogenous coagulation factor supplementation regimen based upon an adequate preoperative evaluation and clinical monitoring and management by an interdisciplinary team.
A gender perspective in the design of a video-on-demand search engine
Authors: Martínez Lara Díaz , López Davinia Pérez
Published: October 2023

Most interaction designs unknowingly discriminate against certain groups of people, and video-on-demand platforms are often included among such designs. This study presents an introduction to the adoption of a gender perspective in the user experience design of the search engine of a video-on-demand platform. User experience design includes, in essence, user needs in order to eliminate the obstacles users may encounter on their way to having a productive, straightforward and rewarding experience. This project was carried out using established user experience methods and techniques. The final design provides a prototype for an advanced search engine within a video-on-demand platform and includes all the elements in the filtering system of the main catalogue. It eliminates the gender gap and promotes women’s empowerment, thereby providing an experience where users feel comfortable and satisfied.
Does Crowdshipping of Parcels Generate New Passenger Trips? Evidence from the Netherlands
Authors: Cebeci Merve Seher , Tapia Rodrigo Javier , Nadi Ali , Bok Michiel de , Tavasszy Lóránt
Published: October 2023

Crowdsourced shipping or crowdshipping is a promising solution to sustainable parcel delivery, owing to the potential to consolidate freight trips with preexisting passenger trips. Previous literature focuses on these consolidation benefits but does not address the possibility of new activity generation in crowdshipping. In this study, we investigate the willingness of private persons to accept shipments based on a newly generated home-based trip. We compare this to the choices of occasional carriers who build on the daily home–work commute to deliver parcels. Two stated preference experiments are conducted and a multinomial logit choice model and a latent class choice model are employed. These allow us to provide values of time of the occasional carriers, as an original contribution to the literature. The results show that commute-based carrier values of time are higher than those of home-based carriers. Concerning the trip generating power of crowdshipping, we find that low-income groups have a relatively high propensity to generate a home-based pickup and delivery trip. Finally, parcel lockers as delivery points positively influence acceptance of crowdshipping requests, as they allow for more flexibility in delivery times. Together, these results support the notion that crowdshipping can act as a potential trip generator in households.
Analysis of mitochondrial function in lymphocytes obtained from COVID-19 patients
Authors: He Zhi , Liu Jing-Jing , Ma Shao-Lei
Published: October 2023

Objectives

There is a significant decline in the lymphocyte subset counts in the peripheral blood of COVID-19 patients. However, the mitochondrial function of lymphocytes obtained from COVID-19 patients has rarely been studied.

Methods

A case-control study was conducted in 115 COVID-19 patients and 50 healthy controls from December 2022 to February 2023. The extent of lymphocytic mitochondrial damage in these patients using mitochondrial fluorescence staining and flow cytometry. Clinical symptoms were evaluated using the SOFA and APACHE II scores.

Results

The mitochondrial function of lymphocytes was severely impaired in the peripheral blood of COVID-19 patients, compared to healthy controls, and was characterized by an increased single-cell mitochondrial mass (SCMM) and increased percentage of low mitochondrial membrane potential. The increase in the SCMM of T cells was more notable in patients with severe COVID-19 and was positively correlated with the SOFA and APACHE II scores. When the SCMM-CD8 cutoff value was 38.775, the AUC for distinguishing between severe and mild COVID-19 was 0.740, and the sensitivity, specificity, and Youden index were 65.8%, 82.1%, and 0.478, respectively.

Conclusion

SCMM-CD8 could act as a diagnostic biomarker of COVID-19 progression. However, this needs to be verified in other multi-center studies with a larger sample size.
Palynological response deduced through spatially distinct surface samples to reconstruct palaeoecology and palaeoclimate of the Barak Valley, Assam (Indo-Burma region), northeast India
Authors: Tripathi Swati , Pandey Arya
Published: October 2023

Establishing modern pollen analogues under various vegetation types in a location is necessary without which it is difficult to accurately interpret fossil pollen assemblages in any region in terms of the past environment and palaeoclimate. We have analysed the modern pollen dataset of 30 surface soil and sediment samples from the forested, cropland, wetland and river sites of the Karimganj District in south Assam, to comprehend the connection between the recent pollen assemblage and the vegetation patterns in the Barak Valley. The overall pollen data reflect the tropical moist deciduous and semi-evergreen forest comprising Syzygium, Schleichera, Terminalia, Lagerstroemia, Duabanga, Sapotaceae, Ilex, Mesua and Schima under a warm and humid climate in response to rainfall variations in the region. The presence of Euphorbiaceae and Convolvulaceae inferred high monsoonal activity in and around the region. A robust relationship between local herbaceous vegetation and pollen was observed. The steady occurrence of cereal pollen (average 18.67%) along with other cultural pollen taxa like Brassicaceae, Coriandrum and Solanaceae illustrate intense agricultural activity around the valley areas. Multivariate principal component analysis (PCA) and box plot were applied to the quantified data obtained from pollen frequency analyses of the surface samples which clearly revealed a significant variation and similarity in vegetation types. Thus, an attempt has been commenced to precisely observe the behavioural pattern of modern pollen deposition in a varied depositional setting, which could, in turn, help in assessing the expanse of agricultural practices and the depth of deterioration of pristine forests and surrounding areas. This modern training dataset could also help in the precise reconstruction of past climate and vegetation shifts in the Barak Valley region. A correlation of regional palynodata with other regions of the Indian subcontinent and Indo-Burma will also be assessed for better interpretation.
Impact of Using Blood Warmer During Continuous Kidney Replacement Therapy in Patients With Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Doddi Akshith , Abbasi Aisha , Ramesh Ambika , Moursy Safa , Sakhuja Ankit , Shawwa Khaled
Published: October 2023

Purpose

We investigated the impact of blood warmer use on hypotensive episodes in patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) receiving continuous kidney replacement therapy (CKRT).

Materials and Methods

We included patients with AKI undergoing CKRT between January 1, 2012, and January 1, 2021, at a tertiary academic hospital. Hypotensive episodes were defined as mean arterial pressure (MAP) <60 mm Hg or a decrease in MAP by ≥10 mm Hg, systolic blood pressure (SBP) < 90 mm Hg or a decrease in SBP by ≥20 mm Hg, or increased vasopressor requirement. These were analyzed by Poisson regression with repeated-measures analysis of variance using generalized estimation equation.

Results

There were 669 patients with AKI that required CKRT. Use of blood warmer on first day of CKRT was in 324 (48%) patients. Incidence rate ratio of hypotensive episodes during the first 24-h of CKRT in patients where a blood warmer was used was 1.06 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.98-1.13) compared to those where blood warmer was not used. This did not change in adjusted model. Overall, the within-subject effect of temperature on hypotensive episodes showed that higher temperature was associated with fewer episodes (0.94, 95% CI: 0.9-0.99 per 10 degrees increase, P = .007).

Conclusion

Blood rewarming was not associated with hypotensive episodes during CKRT.
Exposure to Sedation and Analgesia Medications: Short-term Cognitive Outcomes in Pediatric Critical Care Survivors With Acquired Brain Injury
Authors: Drury Kurt M. , Hall Trevor A. , Orwoll Benjamin , Adhikary Sweta , Kirby Aileen , Williams Cydni N.
Published: October 2023

Background/Objective: Pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) survivors risk significant cognitive morbidity, particularly those with acquired brain injury (ABI) diagnoses. Studies show sedative and analgesic medication may potentiate neurologic injury, but few studies evaluate impact on survivor outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate whether exposures to analgesic and sedative medications are associated with worse neurocognitive outcome. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted of 91 patients aged 8 to 18 years, undergoing clinical neurocognitive evaluation approximately 1 to 3 months after PICU discharge. Electronic health data was queried for sedative and analgesic medication exposures, including opioids, benzodiazepines, propofol, ketamine, and dexmedetomidine. Doses were converted to class equivalents, evaluated by any exposure and cumulative dose exposure per patient weight. Cognitive outcome was derived from 8 objective cognitive assessments with an emphasis on executive function skills using Principal Components Analysis. Then, linear regression was used to control for baseline cognitive function estimates to calculate a standardized residualized neurocognitive index (rNCI) z-score. Multivariable linear regression evaluated the association between rNCI and medication exposure controlling for covariates. Significance was defined as P < .05. Results: Most ( n = 80; 88%) patients received 1 or more study medications. Any exposure and higher cumulative doses of benzodiazepine and ketamine were significantly associated with worse rNCI in bivariate analyses. When controlling for Medicaid, preadmission comorbid conditions, length of stay, delirium, and receipt of other medication classes, receipt of benzodiazepine was associated with significantly worse rNCI ( β-coefficient = −0.48, 95% confidence interval = −0.88, −0.08). Conclusions: Exposure to benzodiazepines was independently associated with worse acute phase cognitive outcome using objective assessments focused on executive function skills when controlling for demographic and illness characteristics. Clinician decisions regarding medication regimens in the PICU may serve as a modifiable factor to improve outcomes. Additional inquiry into associations with long-term cognitive outcome and optimal medication regimens is needed.
Silk fibroin nanoparticles and β–tricalcium phosphate loaded tissue engineered gelatin bone scaffolds: A Nature-based, low-cost solution
Authors: Yıldız Ayşegül , Birer Mehmet , Turgut Birer Yağmur , Uyar Recep , Yurdakök-Dikmen Begüm , Acartürk Füsun
Published: October 2023

Tissue engineering has recently attracted attention as an alternative to traditional treatment methods for tissue and organ damage. Since bone is one of the most important vital parts of the body, the treatment of bone damage is important. Silk fibroin is a natural polymer with properties such as biocompatibility and biodegradability, which attracts attention with its controlled release, especially in drug delivery systems. In this study, gelatin-based scaffolds loaded with silk fibroin nanoparticles and β -tricalcium phosphate (β -TCP) were developed to be used as a potential drug delivery system in bone tissue engineering. The chosen nanoparticle formulation has a 294 nm average diameter with a 0.380 polidispersity index (PDI). In vitro characterization of scaffolds was performed by mechanical, morphological characterization, swelling capacity, Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) measurements, and biocompatibility was evaluated by cell culture studies. Swelling index, tensile strength, elongation at break, and Young modulus of the β -TCP and silk nanoparticles loaded scaffold were found as 456%, 1.476 MPa, 6.75%, and 24 MPa, respectively. In vitro cell culture studies have shown that scaffolds prepared in the present study can accelerate osteoblast differentiation and increase the healing rate of bone tissues. In addition, they have the potential to be used as a drug delivery system in bone tissue engineering that needs to be evaluated with further studies.
Organizational Structure, Instructional Quality, and Student Achievement: The Case of Public and Private Schools
Authors: Canbolat Yusuf
Published: October 2023

Influencing major education policies in the US such as school vouchers and charter schools, market theory assumes that organizational autonomy, parental choice, and competition between schools improve the quality of education. However, whether those policies can influence the instructional core of schools is not well understood. Comparing private and public schools offers an opportunity to examine whether market-oriented assumptions hold in practice. Relying on institutional theory, this study examines whether public and private schools differ in their instructional quality and whether such differences translate into achievement advantages in the US. Using Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) surveys and achievement data, the study integrates structural equation modeling and propensity score matching to examine the latent construct of instructional quality and mitigate selection bias. Results indicate similar instructional quality in public and private schools explaining comparable student achievement by school type. Barriers to instructional change through market-oriented reforms are discussed.
Stress of conscience in healthcare in turbulent times: A longitudinal study
Authors: Taipale Mikko , Herttalampi Mari , Muotka Joona , Mauno Saija , Feldt Taru
Published: October 2023

Background

Healthcare workers frequently face ethically demanding situations in their work, potentially leading to stress of conscience. Long-term work intensification (more and more effort demanded year after year), organizational change and COVID-19 may be risk factors concerning stress of conscience.

Aims

The main aim was to investigate the relationship between long-term work intensification and stress of conscience among the personnel in a healthcare organization. Organizational change management was considered a mediator and COVID-19-related work stress a moderator in the association between work intensification and stress of conscience.

Research design, participants and context

A total of 211 healthcare district employees participated in a longitudinal survey using questionnaires collected in 2019 (major organizational change in the planning stage) and 2021 (organizational change completed).

Ethical considerations

The study was implemented according to the guidelines of the Finnish National Board on Research Integrity. The Finnish instructions were that no review by an ethics committee was necessary because participation was voluntary, informed consent was requested, participants were assured that they were free to withdraw from the longitudinal study at any time and no health data were collected.

Findings

Long-term work intensification was associated with more severe stress of conscience. Long-term work intensification was partially mediated through change management to stress of conscience. High COVID-19 stress strengthened the association between long-term work intensification and stress of conscience.

Conclusions

Long-term work intensification must be addressed to reduce stress of conscience in healthcare, otherwise the healthcare system will be vulnerable to changes and crisis. Extra resources for personnel and management should be allocated because of work intensification during organizational change and health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic to alleviate stress of conscience.
The Effect of Tibiotalar Joint Line Level Alterations on Tibiotalar Range of Motion Following Total Ankle Arthroplasty
Authors: Fletcher Amanda N. , Campbell John T. , Maloney Patrick J. , Cerrato Rebecca A. , Jeng Clifford L.
Published: October 2023

Background:

The effect of tibiotalar joint line level (TTJL) on patient outcomes following total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) remains unclear. It was previously reported that patients with end-stage ankle arthritis have an elevated TTJL compared with nonarthritic ankles, and the TTJL post-TAA remains elevated compared with nonarthritic ankles. The objectives of this study were to (1) propose a reliable radiographic method to measure the TTJL absolute value and (2) determine the effect of TTJL alterations on tibiotalar range of motion (ROM) following TAA.

Methods:

A retrospective review was performed on patients who underwent TAA between January 2018 and April 2021 with a minimum of 1-year postoperative follow-up and complete perioperative ROM radiographs. Radiographic TTJL and ROM measurements were performed by 2 observers. The proposed TTJL measuring technique computes 4 measurements: high, low, center of the talus (center), and center of the axis (axis). Reliability of measurements and correlation between TTJL measurements and ROM were assessed.

Results:

A total of 33 patients were included. Postoperatively, 22 patients had a lowered TTJL compared to 11 patients with an elevated TTJL (2.2 ± 1.3 mm lowered vs 1.9 ± 1.2 mm elevated; P < .0001). Of the 4 TTJL measurements, 3 (low, center, axis) demonstrated a significant positive correlation between lowering the TTJL and improved tibiotalar dorsiflexion and 2 (low, axis) for total ROM (all P < .05). Plantarflexion was not significantly affected by TTJL alterations. Compared to patients with an elevated TTJL, patients with a lowered TTJL had improved tibiotalar dorsiflexion (8.8 vs 2.5 degrees; P = .0015) and total ROM (31.0 vs 22.9 degrees; P = .0191), respectively. The interrater reliability was nearly perfect (intraclass correlation r = 0.96-0.99).

Conclusion:

In this small series, we found that lowering the TTJL level may more closely reestablish the native TTJL and correlates with improved tibiotalar dorsiflexion and total ROM following TAA.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, case series.
The Role of Gender Norms on Intimate Partner Violence Among Newly Married Adolescent Girls and Young Women in India: A Longitudinal Multilevel Analysis
Authors: Gopalakrishnan Lakshmi , Bertozzi Stefano , Bradshaw Patrick , Deardorff Julianna , (Shakya) Baker Holly , Rabe-Hesketh Sophia
Published: October 2023

Gender norms have been posited to impact intimate partner violence (IPV), but there is scant evidence of the longitudinal association between community-level gender norms and IPV. Using longitudinal data on 3,965 married girls surveyed in India, we fitted mixed-effects ordinal and binary logistic regression models for physical IPV intensity and occurrence of sexual IPV. We found a 26% increase in the odds that women experience frequent physical IPV per one unit increase in greater community-level equitable gender norms. We did not find an association between community-level equitable gender norms and sexual IPV. Findings suggest that the relationship between gender norms and physical and sexual IPV differs, indicating the need for tailored interventions for different types of IPV.
Social Reactions to Disclosures of Intimate Partner Stalking and Unwanted Pursuit Behaviors: Associations With PTSD, Academic Outcomes, and Empowerment
Authors: Lietzau Stephanie B. , Aiken Brianne E. , Cooney Caroline C. , Dardis Christina M.
Published: October 2023

Among college survivors of unwanted pursuit behaviors (UPBs; 40.1%, n = 189) or intimate partner stalking (IPS, i.e., UPBs causing emotional distress; 32.1%, n = 151), the present study examined effects of social reactions to disclosures on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptomatology, academic outcomes, and personal empowerment. Compared to UPB survivors, IPS survivors were more likely to disclose and reported higher positive and negative reactions to disclosure as well as greater frequency of UPBs/IPS, IPV, and PTSD symptoms. Among both groups, only negative social reactions were positively associated with PTSD symptoms. However, among IPS (but not UPB) survivors, only positive social reactions were related to academic outcomes and empowerment when controlling for PTSD and IPS frequency. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
Comparing different robots available in the European market for the preparation of injectable chemotherapy and recommendations to users
Authors: Cerutti Ariane , Ledoux Thomas , Vantard Nicolas , Cerfon Marie-Anne , Kimbidima Reine , Larbre Virginie , Herledan Chloe , Lattard Claire , Baudouin Amandine , Caffin Anne Gaelle , Schwiertz Vérane , Ranchon Florence , Rioufol Catherine
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Recent advances in technology have made it possible to develop robots for preparing injectable anticancer drugs. This study aims to compare characteristics between robots available in the European market in 2022 and to help future pharmacy users in their choices.

Methods

Three sources of data were used: (1) a review of published articles in the MEDLINE database from November 2017 to end of June 2021 on chemotherapy-compounding robots used in hospital; (2) all manufacturers’ documentation, and (3) demonstrations of robot operations in real hospital conditions and discussions with users and manufacturers. Robot characteristics included number of robots installed, general technical characteristics, type of injectable chemotherapy produced and compatible materials, productivity data, preparation control methods, residual manual tasks, chemical and microbiological risk management, cleaning method, software, and implementation time.

Results

Seven robots commercialized were studied. Several technical characteristics have to be taken into account in selecting the robot whose match the specific needs of a particular hospital, and which often require rethinking the current production workflow as well as the organization of the pharmacy unit. In addition to increasing productivity, the robots improve the quality of production thanks to better traceability, reproducibility, and precision of sampling. They also improve user protection against chemical risk, musculoskeletal disorders, and needle wounds. Nevertheless, when robotization is being planned, there are still numerous residual manual tasks to keep in mind.

Conclusion

Robotization of the production of injectable anticancer drugs is booming within anticancer chemotherapy preparation pharmacy units. Feedback from this experience needs to be further shared with the pharmacy community regarding this significant investment.
GenSLMs: Genome-scale language models reveal SARS-CoV-2 evolutionary dynamics
Authors: Zvyagin Maxim , Brace Alexander , Hippe Kyle , Deng Yuntian , Zhang Bin , Bohorquez Cindy Orozco , Clyde Austin , Kale Bharat , Perez-Rivera Danilo , Ma Heng , Mann Carla M. , Irvin Michael , Ozgulbas Defne G. , Vassilieva Natalia , Pauloski James Gregory , Ward Logan , Hayot-Sasson Valerie , Emani Murali , Foreman Sam , Xie Zhen , Lin Diangen , Shukla Maulik , Nie Weili , Romero Josh , Dallago Christian , Vahdat Arash , Xiao Chaowei , Gibbs Thomas , Foster Ian , Davis James J. , Papka Michael E. , Brettin Thomas , Stevens Rick , Anandkumar Anima , Vishwanath Venkatram , Ramanathan Arvind
Published: October 2023

We seek to transform how new and emergent variants of pandemic-causing viruses, specifically SARS-CoV-2, are identified and classified. By adapting large language models (LLMs) for genomic data, we build genome-scale language models (GenSLMs) which can learn the evolutionary landscape of SARS-CoV-2 genomes. By pre-training on over 110 million prokaryotic gene sequences and fine-tuning a SARS-CoV-2-specific model on 1.5 million genomes, we show that GenSLMs can accurately and rapidly identify variants of concern. Thus, to our knowledge, GenSLMs represents one of the first whole-genome scale foundation models which can generalize to other prediction tasks. We demonstrate scaling of GenSLMs on GPU-based supercomputers and AI-hardware accelerators utilizing 1.63 Zettaflops in training runs with a sustained performance of 121 PFLOPS in mixed precision and peak of 850 PFLOPS. We present initial scientific insights from examining GenSLMs in tracking evolutionary dynamics of SARS-CoV-2, paving the path to realizing this on large biological data.
Sustainable Service
Authors: Keiningham Timothy , Aksoy Lerzan , Malthouse Edward
Published: October 2023

This special issue delves deeply into the pivotal challenge of sustainability, using the lens of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the UN Global Compact as its foundation. Emphasizing the multifaceted nature of sustainability, the discussion spotlights its interdisciplinary and multistakeholder character, making a strong case that services research should be the epicenter of sustainability research and action. We introduce a new definition of “service sustainability” that brings together diverse fields such as policymaking, engineering, resource management, and education. This definition is not just an academic construct; it carries important managerial and policy implications. Organizations, both in the corporate and governmental sectors, are urged to adapt services that cater to present-day demands with a foresight that ensures the flourishing of future generations. At its heart, this updated approach emphasizes improving services while being aware of the social, environmental, and economic aspects of our connected world.
Therapeutic Effect of Tinospora cordifolia (Willd) Extracts on Letrozole-Induced Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and its Complications in Murine Model
Authors: Rani Ritu , Sharma Avinash Kumar , Chitme Havagiray R
Published: October 2023

Background:

Tinosopora cordifolia ( Willd) (TC) is commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine since long time for number of ailments and its preparations are also considered by food safety and standards authority of India as nutritional supplement. However the scientific evidence on its possible safety and efficacy in polycystic ovarian syndrome and associated complications was not studied in detail.

Objectives:

The purpose of this investigation is to examine whether or not TC can have therapeutic effects on letrozole induced PCOS and related complications such as body weight, dyslipidaemia, glucose tolerance, hormonal regulation, insulin resistance and sensitivity, severity of PCOS and histopathological changes in ovary using mice animal model.

Design:

Present study is a preclinical study involving laboratory animals.

Methods and analysis:

After verifying the absence of PCOS, the animals began receiving Letrozole, which lasted for 21 days. Fasting blood glucose (FBG), the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), triglycerides, cholesterol, and weight were recorded. The levels of hormones like oestrogen, progesterone, insulin, testosterone, luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), histopathology was carried out.

Ethics:

The Institutional Animal Ethics Committee at DITU gave its clearance to the animal experimentation on July 10, 2021 (DITU/IAEC/21-22/07-06).

Discussion:

The majority of cornified epithelial cells were seen in groups treated with TC extract during the estrous phase of the cycle. Mice exposed to TC retained normal body weight. FBG, 1- and 2-hour OGTT, triglyceride and cholesterol levels were all significantly improved by extracts. Estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, insulin, LH and FSH concentration were all corrected in TC-treated animals. The HOMA-IR, HOMA-Beta and QUICKI values were also corrected with TC extracts. The morphological and microscopic features of the ovary were also greatly enhanced. Based on these findings, we conclude that treating PCOS mice with TC extracts significantly ameliorates the disease and severity down to nil-to-moderate levels by reducing hyperinsulinemia, hyperandrogenism, dyslipidaemia, enhancing insulin sensitivity, correcting oestrogen, progesterone, LH and FSH levels via enhanced ovarian function. Further molecular and cellular level of study is recommended for further elaboration of mechanism of action.

Plain language summaries

•  Tinospora cordifolia satva, oil and hydroalcoholic extract were studied in letrozole-induced PCOS in mice model • Anti PCOS efficacy of 3 preparations studied with respect to their mechanism of action in detail • For the first time proposing method of calculating severity of PCOS in animal model •  Tinospora cordifolia oil preparation completely reversed PCOS effect of letrozole and made them normal • Histopathological and morphological studies support the biochemical claims
Diabetes mellitus in privately insured autistic adults in the United States
Authors: Gilmore Daniel , Hand Brittany N
Published: October 2023

Diabetes mellitus is a challenging chronic health condition at the forefront of attention of the healthcare system. Important estimates quantifying how diabetes prevalence varies by age are available for the general population, but these estimates are poorly characterized among autistic adults. Improved diabetes prevalence and likelihood estimates are needed to understand the impact of diabetes on this population. We analyzed IBM MarketScan health claims data from 2019 to 2020 to estimate diabetes prevalence among privately insured autistic ( N = 54,500) and non-autistic adults ( N = 109,000) and estimate autistic adults’ likelihood of diabetes relative to non-autistic adults at 5-year age intervals (e.g. 18–22 to 23–27) when controlling for demographic factors. Diabetes prevalence was 5.15% for autistic adults and 3.07% for non-autistic adults. Autistic adults had a higher likelihood of diabetes than non-autistic adults at most 5-year age intervals, with the greatest difference at ages 23–37 (odds ratio = 2.67; 95% confidence interval = 2.33–3.06). Our findings suggest that autistic adults may be more likely than non-autistic adults to experience diabetes. Thus, development of diabetes support services and programs that accommodate autistic adults’ individualized needs are important for future study to promote optimal diabetes outcomes for this population.

Lay abstract

Diabetes is a chronic health condition that is challenging to manage. Estimates of how common diabetes is among non-autistic adults are available, but improved estimates for autistic adults are needed. The purpose of this study was to obtain improved diabetes estimates for autistic adults. We analyzed a large private health insurance claims database to estimate how common diabetes was among autistic adults, and how likely autistic adults were to have diabetes compared to non-autistic adults at 5-year age intervals throughout adulthood (e.g. 18–22, 23–27). We found that diabetes was more common among autistic adults than non-autistic adults and that autistic adults were significantly more likely than non-autistic adults to have diabetes throughout most of adulthood. Our findings suggest that autistic adults may be more likely than non-autistic adults to experience diabetes in adulthood. The development of diabetes support services and programs that accommodate autistic adults’ individual needs are important for future study to promote positive diabetes outcomes for autistic adults.
Optimal ventilation strategy for multi-bed hospital inpatient wards: CFD simulations using a genetic algorithm
Authors: Satheesan Manoj Kumar , Tsang Tsz-Wun , Mui Kwok-Wai , Wong Ling-Tim
Published: October 2023

Optimising ventilation strategy for an indoor environment necessitates systematically evaluating the influence of a diverse combination of physical and operational parameters in the design space. This study proposes a methodology that couples an evolutionary algorithm (genetic algorithm) with an evaluation mechanism (computational fluid dynamics) to determine the optimal ventilation strategy for an inpatient ward. The traditional approach would exhaustively simulate numerous scenarios to identify the optimal combination of parameters meeting the design objective. The proposed methodology would iteratively evaluate diverse design solutions with fewer CFD simulations than the traditional approach. The results of design space exploration suggest that design parameters, namely, location of the infected patient; air change rate; flow rate through local exhaust grille; and number, location and size of supply air diffuser and local air exhaust grille, are critical in minimising the risk of cross-infection caused through contact transmission in a ward.
#YellowPeril supports Black power: Performing affective memory work for solidarity
Authors: Kang Yena
Published: October 2023

As various racial justice movements emerged under the “Black Lives Matter” slogan after George Floyd’s murder in May 2020, artist Monyee Chau posted a piece with the slogan #YellowPerilSupportsBlackPower on her Instagram page. The artwork, which depicted a yellow tiger, symbolizing Asians, and a black panther, symbolizing Black Americans, ignited Asian activism in support of Black Americans. In this study, I conceptualize #YellowPerilSupportsBlackPower movement as digital activism and analyze how Asian Americans project their “Asianness” to advocate for the Black community. In particular, I focus on Asian participants’ mediated memory work via Instagram to support the Black community. By identifying three types of affective memory work, I conclude that this affective memory work plays a key role in the legitimizing process through which Asian Americans produce affective ties with the Black community to build a multiracial identity that reaches beyond color lines.
Experimental investigation of hydrogen combustion in a single cylinder PFI engine
Authors: Buzzi L , Biasin V , Galante A , Gessaroli D , Pesce F , Tartarini D , Vassallo A , Scalabrini S , Sacco N , Rossi R
Published: October 2023

The simultaneous reduction of Green-House Gases (GHG) and criteria pollutants is the main target of current Internal Combustion Engines (ICE) development. Hydrogen (H2) fueling is one of the best options available in both regards, as it does not emit tailpipe CO2 as well as significantly abates all criteria pollutants already at engine-out level. However, optimizing hydrogen combustion in order to exploit the fuel proprieties at best is a challenging task due to the very particular properties of the fuel. In fact, H2 combustion in ICE promotes a very clean, fast and complete combustion process, with extremely low HC, CO, and PM engine-out emissions stemming only from lubricant oil. The usage of lean-boosted and EGR-diluted combustion strategies can significantly contribute to raise the brake thermal efficiency and lower the NOx emission to extremely low levels. To this end, the Authors tested a 0.5 L single cylinder engine featuring an optimized PFI layout and dedicated piston bowl profile for a retrofitted Diesel operating as H2 monofuel, in SI mode. In this paper, the authors discuss the effect of the main engine parameters, extensively investigated by means of Design of Experiments (DoE) techniques, as well as the effect of dilution and EGR to promote clean and efficient hydrogen combustion, in order to recommend the most effective practices.
Conformity to Masculinity Norms and Mental Health Outcomes Among Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Two-Spirit, and Queer Men and Non-Binary Individuals
Authors: Cooper Sarah , Péloquin Tristan , Lachowsky Nathan J. , Salway Travis , Oliffe John L. , Klassen Benjamin , Brennan David J. , Houle Janie , Ferlatte Olivier
Published: October 2023

Homophobia and biphobia negatively impact the mental health of gay, bisexual, trans, Two-Spirit, and queer men and non-binary individuals (GBT2Q) and sexual and gender minority men, but little is known about the impact of gender-related oppression. The current study examines the impact of pressure to conform to masculine norms in Canada-based GBT2Q individuals. Specifically, the associations between (a) gender expression and pressure to be masculine and (b) pressure to be masculine and depression, anxiety, and self-rated mental health were investigated. Drawing from an online national cross-sectional survey of 8,977 GBT2Q individuals and sexual and gender minority men living in Canada aged 15 years or older, 56.4% ( n = 5,067) of respondents reported experiencing pressure to conform to masculine norms. Respondents were more likely to report masculine pressure if they were younger than 30 years, described their gender expression as fluid, identified their sexuality as queer, were an ethnoracial minority, and were trans. Pressure to be masculine was associated with increased odds of depression, anxiety, and reporting poor or fair mental health. The current study provides evidence of the detrimental impact of pressure to conform to masculine norms on the mental health of gay, bisexual, trans, Two-Spirit, and queer men and non-binary peoples.
Sleep disorders as both risk factors for, and a consequence of, stroke: A narrative review
Authors: Mayer-Suess Lukas , Ibrahim Abubaker , Moelgg Kurt , Cesari Matteo , Knoflach Michael , Högl Birgit , Stefani Ambra , Kiechl Stefan , Heidbreder Anna
Published: October 2023

Background and purpose:

Sleep disorders are increasingly implicated as risk factors for stroke, as well as a determinant of stroke outcome. They can also occur secondary to the stroke itself. In this review, we describe the variety of different sleep disorders associated with stroke and analyze their effect on stroke risk and outcome.

Methods:

A search term-based literature review (“sleep,” “insomnia,” “narcolepsy,” “restless legs syndrome,” “periodic limb movements during sleep,” “excessive daytime sleepiness” AND “stroke” OR “cerebrovascular” in PubMed; “stroke” and “sleep” in ClinicalTrials.gov) was performed. English articles from 1990 to March 2023 were considered.

Results:

Increasing evidence suggests that sleep disorders are risk factors for stroke. In addition, sleep disturbance has been reported in half of all stroke sufferers; specifically, an increase is not only sleep-related breathing disorders but also periodic limb movements during sleep, narcolepsy, rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder, insomnia, sleep duration, and circadian rhythm sleep–wake disorders. Poststroke sleep disturbance has been associated with worse outcome.

Conclusion:

Sleep disorders are risk factors for stroke and associated with worse stroke outcome. They are also a common consequence of stroke. Recent guidelines suggest screening for sleep disorders after stroke. It is possible that treatment of sleep disorders could both reduce stroke risk and improve stroke outcome, although further data from clinical trials are required.
Fertility transition of Han and ethnic minorities in China: A tale of convergence and variation
Authors: Jin Yongai , Hu Wenbo , Wang Donghui
Published: October 2023

China's large and diverse population exhibits interethnic variations in fertility, socioeconomic status, and culture. This study comprehensively analyzes data from multiple population censuses and qualitative interviews to identify fertility transition dynamics among ethnic groups in China. Taken together, the quantitative and qualitative results reveal a rapid decline in total fertility rates among both Han and ethnic minorities and a trend of convergence across different ethnic groups over the past few decades; in addition, the findings also show significant heterogeneity within ethnic minority populations. Our analysis sheds further light on the crucial role of social context and macro-level factors in shaping individuals’ reproductive behaviors. The results offer insights into how policies may address low fertility rates in China.
Surgical Repair of a Left Main Coronary Artery to Right Ventricle Fistula in a Neonate
Authors: Meshulami Noy , Kaushik Shubhi , Pastuszko Peter , Murthy Raghav
Published: October 2023

We describe the case of a newborn male with a large fistula from the left main coronary artery to the right ventricle. This case illustrates a rare congenital coronary artery fistula and its successful surgical management in the neonatal period.
Understanding Blockchain Technology Adoption in Operation and Supply Chain Management of Pakistan: Extending UTAUT Model With Technology Readiness, Technology Affinity and Trust
Authors: Zhang Qingyu , Khan Salman , Khan Safeer Ullah , Khan Ikram Ullah
Published: October 2023

This paper aims to investigate the behavioral intention to adopt blockchain technology (BC) in Pakistan’s operation and supply chain management. A conceptual framework is developed by extending the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model, incorporating technology readiness, technology affinity, and trust. The model was empirically examined using 198 responses from an online survey directed by a Pakistan operation and supply chain professionals. The proposed model is tested using Smart PLS. The empirical results suggest that BC adoption is positively influenced by facilitating condition, social influence, effort expectancy, technology readiness, and technology affinity, while performance expectancy and trust negatively influence BC to adopt. This research contributes to the advancement and stimulation of blockchain technology acceptance behavior in supply chains and significant managerial implications that could be more meaningful for developing economies.
The Effect of Livestreaming Esports Media on Viewer Satisfaction, Flow Experience, and Media Loyalty
Authors: Huang Yihan , Kim Daehwan , Ko Yong Jae
Published: October 2023

Electronic sports (esports) have become one of the fastest-growing forms of new media. As a result, esports livestreaming media is a necessary medium for connecting viewers and esports livestreams. Drawing on the media richness theory, the purpose of the current study was to explore how livestreaming media attributes and viewers’ individual characteristics (esports involvement) influence the viewer’s experience (satisfaction and flow experience) and media loyalty. The results of a latent moderated structural equations (LMS) modeling analysis using a total of 568 viewers revealed that informativeness and convenience significantly influenced viewer satisfaction and flow experience, which in turn influenced media loyalty. Interestingly, interactivity was found to be a more important attribute for viewer satisfaction and flow experience among highly involved viewers while informativeness was an important attribute for less involved viewers. Furthermore, viewer satisfaction is pivotal in establishing media loyalty for less involved viewers, while flow experience is key for highly involved viewers. The findings of this research have theoretical implications for the literature on esports media and media consumption experiences and offer managers effective strategies for developing esports media loyalty.