bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Criteria Weights on Medical Equipment Selection
Authors: Marolla Ignacio M.
Published: December 2024

Selecting optimal medical equipment is a complex decision involving multiple criteria. This study aimed to assess the sensitivity of equipment selection outcomes to variations in both offer parameters and criteria weights in the context of a magnetic resonance imaging scanner selection where the analytic hierarchy process was used. The analysis involves a 2-pronged approach: (1) systematically modifying parameters of the winning offer to assess rank stability and (2) conducting a Monte Carlo simulation to evaluate the impact of varying criteria weights on the final ranking. Results indicated that although the winning offer generally maintained its rank, weight assignment, parameters variability, data preprocessing, and threshold definition exerted significant influence. These findings underscore the importance of conducting comprehensive sensitivity analyses to mitigate decision risks in medical equipment selection.
Child Maltreatment Data After Implementation of Hospital-Wide Protocol and Utilization of Sexual Assault Forensic Examiners for Child Maltreatment Cases
Authors: Morrissey Kirsten , Dawson Kaylin , Ata Ashar , Waxman Michael
Published: December 2024

Background

Child maltreatment is a significant global health concern with significant morbidity and mortality. Sexual assault forensic examiners (SAFEs) provide a valuable skill set and may be utilized in child maltreatment evaluations.

Aim

The purpose of the study was to describe patient characteristics and trends after implementation of a hospital-wide standardized child maltreatment protocol including forensic examiners in child maltreatment cases.

Methods

Data from January 2017 through December 2022 were retrospectively collected and reviewed on all children under 18 years old who had a child maltreatment evaluation after initiation of a standardized child maltreatment screening process and protocol incorporating SAFE forensic evaluations at a tertiary care Level 1 trauma center.

Results

From January 2017 through December 2022, there were 764 child maltreatment evaluations of 742 total patients completed, with 763 (99.9%) evaluations completed by a trained SAFE. There were 378 examinations (49%) completed in children under 2 years old, 281 (37%) in children 2 years old until the 10th birthday, and the remaining 105 (14%) in children 10 years and older. The overall number of cases increased since the initiation of standardized screening and protocol from 68 cases in 2017 to 158 cases in 2022, with peak of 167 cases in 2020.

Conclusion

SAFE-trained providers can be successfully incorporated in the multidisciplinary evaluation of child maltreatment patients and can add invaluable education, forensic documentation, and standardization of practice in the care of this vulnerable population.
Improving the quality of self-collected swab specimens for the detection of Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae in a clinical setting
Authors: McDonald Mia , Orser Lauren , Watson Catherine , Grayson Marie-Odile , Trudeau Dominique , McMillan Kim , O'Byrne Patrick
Published: December 2024

Background:

The practice of patient self-collected swab specimens for Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Chlamydia trachomatis is supported in the literature.

Local problem:

Health care providers observed that patients sometimes performed their self-swabs incorrectly resulting in cancelled or invalid specimens.

Methods:

The clinic's outdated visual aids were replaced with new visual aids. The goal was to improve health care provider proficiency in providing the health teaching and to reduce the clinic's number of cancelled or invalid swab specimens. Staff evaluated the visual aids using an online pretest and post-test survey. The percentage of invalid swabs was calculated before and after project implementation.

Intervention:

The posters were designed and printed. In-person teaching on the project and using the new visual aids was provided.

Results:

There was no change in the reported proficiency of staff in providing health teaching for self-collected swab specimens. There was a reduction in staff observed self-swabbing errors. Three percent of rectal swabs were reported as invalid in the 2 weeks before project implementation, and 1.4% of rectal swabs were invalid in the 2 weeks after.

Conclusions:

Providing patient health teaching using verbal instructions combined with visual diagrams can improve patients' ability to retain health information.
Quality Improvement Project
Authors: Zidek Stephanie , Hackett Robin , Bigott Veronica
Published: December 2024

Implementing a personalized professional growth pathway in a nurse residency program at a Midwest health system aimed to enhance newly licensed nurse satisfaction and retention. Replacing the traditional evidence-based practice project with the “Professional Growth Pathway” tailored to nurses' interests and career goals resulted in a 93% retention rate at program completion, surpassing the national average. This innovative approach fosters individual development, aiding recruitment and retention efforts amidst staffing challenges.
Remodeling tumor-associated macrophages in the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Chen Shuzhen , Li Shiyao , Wang Hongyang
Published: December 2024

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) actively interact with the tumor microenvironment (TME). The dynamic communication between TAMs and the TME is closely associated with tumorigenesis, progression, metastasis, and drug resistance. With the development of single-cell sequencing, specific TAMs have been identified, and their roles in the TME were explored. With the development of an understanding of the interactions between TAMs and the TME, targeting TAMs has become a new treatment strategy for cancer therapy because of their high plasticity. In this review, we highlight strategies for remodeling TAMs based on targeting specific genes involved in regulating TAM phenotypes, blocking the crosstalk between TAMs and the TME, and targeting abnormal metabolic pathways. Moreover, we provided perspectives on the translational potential of targeting TAMs for cancer treatment, which could shed light on TAM-based therapeutic strategy in the future.
Morphologic Characteristics Seen in High-grade Serous Ovarian Carcinoma Metastases in Postneoadjuvant Chemotherapy Resections
Authors: Lepe Marcos , Mejia Emily , Bu Yifan , Hecht Jonathan L.
Published: December 2024

The morphologic features of metastatic high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy have not been described. We conducted a 1-year retrospective, single-institution review of pretreatment biopsy and posttreatment metastases in cases of HGSOC treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Two gynecologic pathologists and 1 pathology resident reviewed 11 cases looking for 6 morphologic features. We correlated these features with patient information on HRD abnormalities (HRD score, germline, and/or somatic BRCA mutations). When compared with the pretreatment biopsies of metastases taken at the time of diagnosis, the postneoadjuvant, treated metastases had unique morphologic findings, such as cytoplasmic vacuolization, cellular enlargement with eosinophilic cytoplasm, macro-nucleoli, cellular discohesion, and micropapillary architecture with abundant psammoma bodies. Metastases were also morphologically different from the primary site in the postneoadjuvant resection specimens.
Walthard Cell Nests/Transitional Cell Metaplasia in Distal Fallopian Tubes and Pelvic Peritoneum Derived From Reserve Cells
Authors: Jo Uiree , Sung Chang Ohk , Kim Kyu-Rae
Published: December 2024

Transitional cell metaplasia (TCM) resembling benign urothelium is commonly seen around the distal fallopian tube and/or neighboring mesothelial surface; however, its histogenesis remains largely unknown. We observed the emergence of a cytokeratin (CK) 17-positive reserve cell layer in early TCM foci beneath the tubal epithelium, leading us to hypothesize that TCM could be derived from reserve cells. To elucidate the histogenetic process of TCM, we analyzed the histomorphologic features and immunoprofiles for CK17, CK5/6, p63, GATA-3, estrogen receptor (ER), and androgen receptor (AR) in TCM foci arising in the tubal epithelium (31 foci) and pelvic mesothelium (35 foci). Overall, the histologic features and immunoprofiles of TCM in the tubal epithelium and pelvic mesothelium were similar, but distinct differences appeared during TCM development. A single-layered CK17-expressing reserve cells became apparent beneath the tubal epithelium, and the CK17 expression disappeared as these cells multiplied. In contrast, a short segment of normal mesothelium next to the tubo-peritoneal junction expressed CK17 even before the emergence of a single-layered reserve cells beneath the mesothelium, suggesting a potential reserve/stem cell function within the mesothelium itself. Then, the single-layered cells in both areas multiplied and differentiated to display urothelial characteristics, including nuclear grooves and clear cytoplasm. Strong CK5/6, p63, and GATA-3 expression appeared in the single-layered reserve cell stage and was maintained thereafter to the fully differentiated TCM. AR was expressed in both normal tubal epithelium and pelvic mesothelium, and the intensity of AR and ER were reciprocal during the entire histogenetic process of TCM in most reserve cell-derived populations (98.5%), AR expression being significantly stronger than ER. The histogenesis of TCM was initiated from the emergence of reserve cells beneath the tubal epithelium and pelvic mesothelium, which then multiplied and differentiated into urothelium. AR might have an important role during the histogenesis of TCM.
Surgical Correction of Unicoronal Synostosis: Fronto-orbital Distraction versus Calvarial Switch
Authors: Mellgren Jonas , Liang Ce , Buzi Costantino , Profico Antonio , Khonsari Roman H. , Säljö Karin , Moazen Mehran , Kölby Lars
Published: December 2024

Background:

There is a need for a new, less invasive surgical option for unicoronal synostosis (UCS). The aim of this study was to compare the resulting morphology and symmetry in patients with UCS following fronto-orbital distraction (FOD) or calvarial switch (CS).

Methods:

79 patients with isolated UCS operated between 2005 and 2021 were analyzed. Follow-up was until 3 years of age. Angles describing orbital dystopia (ODA) and the anterior cranial fossa deviation and cant (ACFD and ACFC, respectively) were measured. Key linear dimensions, cranial cavities, and indices were calculated.

Results:

66 patients were included (14 in the FOD group and 52 in the CS group). The 3-year follow-up revealed significant improvement in all angles in both groups, with significant superiority in ODA correction following FOD (median improvement of 5.7 degrees as compared with 3.3 degrees after CS). Additionally, nasal and orbital volumes tended to be smaller, especially following CS; however, FOD resulted in a smaller absolute difference in orbital volume. Asymmetry in the orbital, nasal, and sphenoid regions also improved at the 3-year follow-up in both groups, although FOD resulted in complete normalization of the affected orbital shape and significantly improved overall asymmetry relative to that observed in the CS group.

Conclusions:

This study found that FOD achieves superior overall symmetry, as well as better shape correction of the cranium, as compared with CS, while also being less invasive. These findings suggest FOD as a safe and effective alternative to correct UCS and possibly the preferred surgical method.
“Fine-tuning on AI-driven Video Analysis through Machine Learning; development of an automated evaluation tool of facial palsy.”
Authors: Kimura Takeichiro , Narita Keigo , Oyamada Kohei , Ogura Masahiko , Ito Tomoyasu , Okada Takashi , Takushima Akihiko
Published: December 2024

Backgrounds:

Establishment of quantitative, objective evaluation tool for facial palsy has been a big issue for clinicians and researchers, and in an era of artificial intelligence, AI-driven video analysis can be considered a reasonable solution for this long-discussed issue. We introduced facial keypoint detection, which detects facial landmarks with 68 points, but existing models had been organized almost solely with images of healthy individuals and low accuracy was presumed in the prediction of asymmetric faces of facial palsy patients.

The accuracy of existing model was assessed through applying it to the movies of 30 facial palsy patients. Qualitative review clearly showed its insufficiency; prone to detect patients’ faces as symmetric, and unable to detect closure of the eyes. Thus, we decided to enhance the model through machine learning process of annotation (fine-tuning).

Methods:

1181 images extracted from the movies of 196 patients were enrolled in the training, and these images underwent manual correction of 68 keypoints. The annotated data was integrated into the previous model with a stack of two Hourglass networks combined with Channel Aggregation Block.

Results:

The post-annotation model showed improvement in normalized mean error from 0.026 to 0.018, and also qualitatively keypoint detection on each facial unit revealed improvements.

Conclusion:

Our strict control of the inter- and intra-annotator variability successfully fine-tuned the presenting model, and we consider our new model as one of promising solutions for objective assessment of facial palsy.
Campylobacter fetus subspecies fetus; an unforeseen cause of abortion in Regional Australia.
Authors: Owusu-Ansa Immanuella , Ramadas Manjeera , Jacob Nikhitha , Ayeni Femi E.
Published: December 2024

Campylobacter fetus (C.fetus) subspecies fetus, a gram-negative bacterium, is an established cause of abortion and infertility in cattle, sheep and goats. Human infections have been rarely reported. In contrast to TORCH infections, this campylobacter species is hardly recognised as a cause of abortion in humans. Since 1947 after the first case report in France, there have only been 11 reported cases in pregnant women worldwide and no published reports in Australia, pregnant or otherwise. The case in this study was compared to the first reported infection of C.fetus in 1947 to raise awareness and educate doctors and midwives, subsequently impacting prenatal and antenatal counselling in these regions.  A Venn diagram was constructed to highlight the similarities between this and the index case. Some differences included the time of onset of symptoms to the time of abortion, the choice of antibiotics by both treating teams and the presentation of sepsis. On the other hand, similarities included the clinical state of the patient post-abortion and the all-important history of exposure to farm animals that suffered recent deaths on the farms of both patients.
U-73122, a phospholipase C inhibitor, impairs lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus virion infectivity
Authors: Mizuma Keita , Hashizume Mei , Urata Shuzo , Shindo Keiko , Takashima Ayako , Mizuta Satoshi , Iwasaki Masaharu
Published: December 2024

Lassa virus (LASV) is an Old World (OW) mammarenavirus that causes Lassa fever, a life-threatening acute febrile disease endemic in West Africa. Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) is a worldwide-distributed, prototypic OW mammarenavirus of clinical significance that has been largely neglected as a human pathogen. No licensed OW mammarenavirus vaccines are available, and the current therapeutic option is limited to the off-label use of ribavirin, which offers only partial efficacy. This situation underscores the urgent need to develop novel antivirals against human pathogenic mammarenaviruses. Previously, we showed that afatinib, a pan-ErbB tyrosine kinase inhibitor, inhibited multiple steps of the life cycles of OW LASV and LCMV, as well as the New World Junín virus vaccine strain Candid#1. In the present study, we investigated the inhibitory effect of U-73122, a phospholipase C inhibitor that acts downstream of ErbB signalling, on LCMV multiplication. U-73122 inhibited WT recombinant (r) LCMV multiplication in cultured cells. Preincubation of cell-free LCMV virions with U-73122 resulted in impaired virion infectivity. U-73122 also inhibited the infection of rLCMVs expressing heterologous viral glycoproteins, including the vesicular stomatitis Indiana virus (VSIV) glycoprotein, whereas WT VSIV infection was not affected by U-73122 treatment. Our results show the novel bioactivity of U-73122 as an LCMV inhibitor and indicate the presence of a virion-associated molecule that is necessary for virion infectivity and can be exploited as a potential antiviral drug target against human pathogenic mammarenavirus infections.
gaftools: a toolkit for analyzing and manipulating pangenome alignments
Authors: Pani Samarendra , Dabbaghie Fawaz , Marschall Tobias , Söylev Arda
Published: December 2024

Linear reference genomes are ubiquitously used in genomics research, despite known biases associated with their use. In recent years, there has a been a shift towards using graph-based reference genomes to address some of these biases, which has required new algorithms and file formats to be developed. This has created the need to develop new tools capable of utilizing these formats and performing operations similar to those carried out by traditional methods.In this paper we present “gaftools”, a multi-purpose tool that introduces several utilities for processing graph alignments in GAF format. Gaftools enables users to index and sort alignments, with graph ordering serving as a necessary step for the sorting process. Additionally it allows users to view subsets of alignments and perform realignment using the wavefront alignment algorithm, among other useful features. Many of these functionalities are inspired by SAMtools, which provide similar operations for linear genomes, while gaftools adapts and extends them for pangenomes.

Availability

gaftools is available under MIT license athttps://github.com/marschall-lab/gaftools.
Gravitational wave signatures of first-order phase transition in two-component dark matter model
Authors: Ayazi Seyed Yaser , Hosseini Mojtaba , Rouzbehi Rouzbeh
Published: December 2024

Here, we consider a classically scale-invariant extension of the Standard Model (SM) with two-component dark matter (DM) candidates, including a Dirac spinor and a scalar DM. We probe the parameter space of the model, constrained by relic density and direct detection, and investigate the generation of gravitational waves (GWs) produced by an electroweak first-order phase transition. The analysis demonstrates that there are points in the parameter space, leading to a detectable GW spectrum arising from the first-order phase transition, which is also consistent with the DM relic abundance and direct detection bounds. These GWs could be observed by forthcoming space-based interferometers such as the Big Bang Observer, Decihertz Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory, and Ultimate-Decihertz Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Operational excellence in African markets: unveiling its drivers, processes and impacts through a mixed-methods approach
Authors: Kharub Manjeet , Sony Michael , Gupta Himanshu , McDermott Olivia
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study is to explore the concept of operational excellence (OPEX) in the context of African businesses. It seeks to identify the main themes, topics and trends within the OPEX discourse and to uncover emerging areas and potential directions for future research. By emphasizing the unique challenges and opportunities in African markets, this study aims to broaden the understanding of OPEX and its applicability in diverse business environments.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative analyses. Using topic modeling and text analytics, the study examines a range of scholarly literature and social media content. The methodology involves a meticulous extraction and analysis of data from peer-reviewed journals, alongside an exploration of themes emerging from social media, blogs and forums. This approach allows for a comprehensive understanding of OPEX trends in both academic and practical contexts.

Findings

The study reveals that OPEX in African businesses is intricately linked with innovation, strategic leadership, cultural dynamics, global market integration and data analytics. Key findings include the importance of integrating cultural understanding into operational strategies, the role of adaptive leadership in navigating the African market and the necessity of aligning operational processes with global trends, innovations and data-driven insights. The research also highlights the unique challenges African firms face, such as balancing local and global business practices, leveraging cultural diversity for competitive advantage and harnessing the power of data analytics for OPEX.

Originality/value

This research contributes original insights into the understanding of OPEX in African business contexts, an area that has been relatively under-explored in existing literature. It offers a novel perspective by integrating academic and practical viewpoints, thereby providing a more holistic understanding of OPEX. The findings have significant implications for both business leaders and researchers, offering strategic directions for firms operating in or with African markets and suggesting new avenues for academic inquiry in the field of OPEX.
An insight of financial literacy and artificial intelligence to mitigate behavioral biases: a bibliometric and systematic review analysis using SPAR-4-SLR
Authors: Annu  , Tripathi Ravindra
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The study explores new aspects of financial investment management with technological involvement, providing detailed knowledge for future research. It identifies gaps in the literature and summarizes key research topics, utilizing a precise data collection framework.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is structured using systematic and bibliometric analysis with the antecedents, decisions, outcome-theories, context, and methods (ADO-TCM) framework. Data from Scopus and Web of Science were filtered based on Q1, Q2, social sciences citation index (SSCI) and Australian Business Deans Council (ABDC) criteria, resulting in 128 articles majorly emphasizing the last ten years. The “R” package facilitated bibliometric analysis, starting with data cleaning and import into Biblioshiny for effective results interpretation.

Findings

The study found that artificial intelligence detects and mitigates biases in investment decisions through rigorous pattern analysis, including social and ethical biases. The ADO-TCM framework revealed emerging theories, such as robo-advisory theory, offering new directions in behavioral finance for researchers and practitioners. The top authors and articles highlighted existing work in financial management.

Originality/value

The study’s originality is highlighted by its use of unique frameworks for data collection (SPAR-4-SLR) and interpretation (ADO-TCM).
Unraveling threats in parasocial relationships: a study on social media influencers
Authors: Farivar Samira , Wang Fang , Turel Ofir
Published: December 2024

Purpose

With growing concerns about users’ well-being on social media, research stresses the importance of threat appraisals as a crucial first step in motivating self-protective actions. This study, in view of the prevalence of parasocial relationships between followers and social media influencers, aims to unravel the complex dynamics of followers’ threat perceptions within these relationships. Specifically, it examines how factors such as perceived self-efficacy to disengage and the positive affect of social media use influence threat appraisals.

Design/methodology/approach

A theoretical model is proposed based on appraisal theory to examine the impact of parasocial relationships on threat perception in engagement. It is empirically tested with data from 186 Instagram users.

Findings

The study reveals an overall positive relationship between parasocial relationships and perceived threat. This relationship is moderated by followers’ perception of self-efficacy to disengage – followers with a high sense of self-efficacy to disengage experience a decrease in threat perception as their parasocial relationships strengthen, whereas followers with a low sense of self-efficacy to disengage report an increase in threat perception with higher levels of parasocial relationships. This interplay is pronounced when followers experience average or below-average levels of positive affect on social media but diminishes when the positive affect is high.

Originality/value

This work contributes insights into social media influencers, threat appraisal dynamics and digital well-being research. Bridging a critical gap in existing knowledge, the study identifies the pivotal roles of followers’ self-efficacy to disengage and positive affect in shaping their threat appraisals toward parasocial relationships with social media influencers. This not only advances theoretical frameworks but also enhances our understanding of the nuanced dynamics of user reactions to parasocial engagements. Our findings offer practical insights for researchers, practitioners and platform developers aiming to cultivate healthy and responsible social media engagement in the digital era, ultimately contributing to individual well-being.
Artificial intelligence adoption and revenue growth in European SMEs: synergies with IoT and big data analytics
Authors: Ardito Lorenzo , Filieri Raffaele , Raguseo Elisabetta , Vitari Claudio
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The conventional notion that adopting Artificial Intelligence (AI) positively affects firm performance is often confronted with various examples of failures. In this context, large-scale empirical evidence of the economic performance implications of adopting AI is poor, especially in the context of Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs). Drawing upon the Resource-Based View and the Digital Complementary Asset literature, we assessed whether the adoption of AI affects SMEs’ revenue growth.

Design/methodology/approach

First, we examine the relationship between the adoption of AI and SMEs’ revenue growth. Second, we assess whether AI complements the Internet of Things (IoT) and Big Data Analytics (BDA). We use firm-level data from the European Commission in 2020 on 11,429 European SMEs (Flash Eurobarometer 486).

Findings

Among the key findings, we found that ceteris paribus, the adoption of AI positively affects SMEs’ revenue growth and, in conjunction with IoT and BDA, appears to be even more beneficial.

Originality/value

Our results suggest that AI fosters SME growth, especially in combination with IoT and BDA. Thus, SME managers should be aware of the positive impacts of investments in AI and make decisions accordingly. Likewise, policymakers are aware of the positive effects of SMEs’ reliance on AI, so they may design policies and funding schemes to push this digitalization of SMEs further.
FinTech and CO2 emission: evidence from (top 7) mobile money economies in Africa
Authors: Coffie Cephas Paa Kwasi , Yeboah Frederick Kwame , Emuron Abraham Simon Otim , Ahiabenu Kwami
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The impact of FinTech in sub-Saharan Africa has primarily been limited to financial inclusion. Contrarily, this study aims to deviate from this norm to estimate how FinTech affects carbon emissions in the subregion. This provides policy recommendations for FinTech regulators, service providers and practitioners to consider optimal products and services that reduce carbon emissions.

Design/methodology/approach

A balanced panel data set from 2009 to 2020 is used and estimated with the fully modified ordinary least squares estimator after checking for cross-sectional dependence, unit root, stationarity and cointegration.

Findings

Results from the estimation suggest a negatively significant relationship between financial technology and carbon emissions in these countries. However, domestic credit to the private sector revealed a statistically insignificant relationship with carbon emissions for the same period. Further, foreign direct investment reduces carbon emissions but gross domestic product and trade openness increase carbon emissions in these countries.

Originality/value

The impact of FinTech in sub-Saharan Africa has primarily been limited to financial inclusion. Contrarily, this study deviates from this norm and estimates how FinTech affects carbon emissions in the subregion.
Pricing decisions and fairness concerns: supply chain power structures
Authors: Han Bing , Chi Tianze , Hu Fangjie , Wang Mengjun
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This paper divides the dyadic supply chain into three power structures according to the relative channel power of the supply chain members and consequently examines the optimal supply chain pricing decisions when both suppliers and retailers are concerned with fairness issues.

Design/methodology/approach

Three models are constructed, namely the Stackelberg game model with the supplier as the leader, the Nash game model with the balance of power and another Stackelberg game model with the retailer as the leader. The equilibrium solutions are solved, and their results are analyzed.

Findings

The retail price of a product increases with an increase in the fairness concerns of the leader in a supply chain in which the supplier or retailer is the leader, while the fairness concerns of the member with less channel power have no effect on the retail price. In a power-balanced supply chain, both suppliers and retailers increase their retail prices as their fairness concerns increase. The relative size of the members’ fairness concerns affects member profits and total supply chain profits.

Originality/value

The main contributions are as follows: First, this paper proposes a new approach to studying supply chain pricing strategy, considering fairness concerns and power structure. Secondly, three game models are constructed. The Nash equilibrium solution is introduced to study the fairness of supply chain participants in pricing decisions and overall supply chain profitability. Finally, the supply chain management theory is expanded by this study on pricing decisions and supply chain performance.
Leveraging green artificial intelligence for green competitive advantage: testing a mediated moderation model
Authors: Salehzadeh Reza , Javani Maliheh , Esmailian Hassan
Published: December 2024

Purpose

In today’s competitive business landscape, organizations are increasingly recognizing the strategic advantage of implementing sustainable practices to gain a competitive edge. This study aims to investigate the effect of green artificial intelligence (AI) on achieving a green competitive advantage, examining the mediating roles of green organizational learning, green product innovation and green process innovation. Additionally, the research explores the moderating role of perceived green climate in the relationship between green AI and these mediating factors.

Design/methodology/approach

This research examined companies in Isfahan, Iran, that have varying levels of artificial intelligence adoption within their business processes. The target population consisted of 148 senior managers from these companies. This study uses structural equation modeling to examine the proposed model.

Findings

Green AI positively impacted green organizational learning and green process innovation but not green product innovation. In addition, the results showed that green organizational learning, green product innovation and green process innovation had positive effects on green competitive advantage. Finally, the results showed that the perceived green climate did not play a moderating role in the relationship between green AI and these mediating factors.

Practical implications

Organizations should prioritize green AI initiatives, foster a culture of green learning and invest in green innovation to achieve sustainable growth and outpace competitors in the environmentally conscious marketplace.

Originality/value

This study positions itself at the forefront of research on green AI and green competitive advantage. It offers a unique framework by examining the combined effects of green AI, green learning and both product and process innovation on achieving a sustainable competitive advantage.
Screening study of hydroxytyrosol metabolites from in vitro fecal fermentation and their interaction with intestinal barrier repair receptor AhR
Authors: Song Yuqing , Li Mengting , Liu Jingle , Wang Juan , Zhou Aimei , Cao Yong , Duan Shan , Wang Qun
Published: December 2024

Olive oil polyphenol hydroxytyrosol (HT) significantly repairs intestinal barrier function, but its absorption in the stomach and small intestine is limited. The metabolites of unabsorbed HT that reach the colon are crucial, yet their effects on colonic microbiota and intestinal barrier repair remain unclear. This study utilized in vitro simulated digestion and colonic fecal fermentation to investigate HT's digestion and fermentation. Results indicated that 79.25% of HT potentially reached the colon intact. Further 16S rDNA, targeted, and untargeted metabolomics analyses showed that HT can be decomposed by colonic microbiota, producing aromatic hydrocarbon metabolites and regulating gut microbiota structure. It promotes the growth of gut microbiota, such as Bacteroides, Faecalibacterium, Klebsiella, and Lachnospira, which degrade HT. Additionally, HT's intervention conversely affected the production of tryptophan‐derived metabolites and short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Subsequently, computer‐simulated molecular docking technology was used to simulate the binding affinity between HT metabolites and derived metabolites and the intestinal barrier repair‐related receptor aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). Indole‐3‐acetic acid, indole‐3‐acetaldehyde, skatole, kynurenine, and homovanillic acid could tightly bind to the amino acid residues of the AhR receptor, with binding energies all ˂−6.0 kcal/mol, suggesting that these metabolites may enhance the intestinal barrier function through the AhR signaling pathway.
Genetic diversity, genotyping and evolutionary history of the global population of Orthotospovirus tomatomaculae genomic segments
Authors: Siampour Majid , Noorbakhsh Sajedeh , Izadpanah Keramatollah
Published: December 2024

Tomato spotted wilt virus (Orthotospovirus tomatomaculae; TSWV) is a destructive pathogen that affects over 1000 plant species worldwide. To elucidate its evolutionary mechanisms, genetic diversity and emergence timeline, we examined around 100 TSWV isolates with complete genome sequences available in GenBank. This study also included the complete genome of a TSWV isolate, IRP4, which has recently been implicated in an outbreak affecting greenhouse‐grown bell peppers in Iran. Pairwise genetic divergence analysis revealed varying levels of genetic differences among TSWV RNA segments. Phylogenetic and sequence analysis determined that the global TSWV population consists of three major groups based on each of the three RNA segments (L, M, and S). Results suggested multiple introductions of the virus into different regions, indicating that the geographical origin of the isolates is not the sole factor determining their phylogenetic grouping. The large incongruences observed in the phylogeny of the TSWV segments and the analysis of genetic diversity patterns highlight extensive reassortment events in TSWV. As a result, 11 genotypes were identified within the TSWV population. The Iranian IRP4 isolate, along with nine other isolates from Europe, Asia, and South America shared a common genotype designated L3‐M1‐S1. This suggests that this potentially reassortant genotype has undergone long‐distance intercontinental movement. Similar to IRP4, the majority of TSWV isolates with the L3‐M1‐S1 genotype were also obtained from pepper, suggesting a potential role of the host plant in the evolution of this genotype. Furthermore, temporal analysis suggests that the existing population of TSWV, circulating between 1996 and 2023, originated from a common ancestor that existed 107–284 years ago. The population size of TSWV experienced a significant expansion for 10–15 years since 1980 and then remained constant until recently.
Single‐centre retrospective review of dupilumab‐induced ocular surface disease in an Australian adult cohort with moderate‐to‐severe atopic dermatitis
Authors: Arasu Alexis , Awad Andrew , Tran Vanessa , Ross Gayle
Published: December 2024

Treatment and management outcomes or patients with atopic dermatitis has significantly improved with the inclusion of dupilumab into the pharmaceutical benefits scheme, as a safe and effective treatment. Ocular surface disease remains one of the most frequent adverse events seen with dupilumab, and impacts quality of life and can interrupt treatment. This retrospective review aims to further characterise the experience and risk factors of dupilumab‐induced ocular surface disease to inform management and support long‐term use for patients, improving overall treatment outcomes.
Towards standardization of person‐reported outcomes (PROs) in pediatric diabetes research: A consensus report
Authors: Barnard‐Kelly Katharine , Marrero David , de Wit Maartje , Pouwer Frans , Khunti Kamlesh , Hermans Norbert , Pierce Jessica S. , Laffel Lori , Holt Richard I. G. , Battelino Tadej , Naranjo Diana , Fosbury Jacqueline , Fisher Lawrence , Polonsky William , Weissberg‐Benchell Jill , Hood Korey K. , Schnell Oliver , Messer Laurel H. , Danne Thomas , Nimri Revital , Skovlund Soren , Mader Julia K. , Sherr Jennifer L. , Schatz Desmond , O'Neill Simon , Doble Emma , Town Marissa , Lange Karin , de Beaufort Carine , Gonder‐Frederick Linda , Jaser Sarah S. , Liberman Alon , Klonoff David , Elsayed Nuha A. , Bannuru Raveendhara R. , Ajjan Ramzi , Parkin Christopher , Snoek Frank J.
Published: December 2024

Background

Diabetes ranks among the most common chronic conditions in childhood and adolescence. It is unique among chronic conditions, in that clinical outcomes are intimately tied to how the child or adolescent living with diabetes and their parents or carers react to and implement good clinical practice guidance. It is widely recognized that the individual's perspective about the impact of trying to manage the disease together with the burden of self‐management should be addressed to achieve optimal health outcomes. Standardized, rigorous assessment of behavioural and mental health outcomes is crucial to aid understanding of person‐reported outcomes alongside, and in interaction with, physical health outcomes. Whilst tempting to conceptualize person‐reported outcomes as a focus on perceived quality of life, the reality is that health‐related quality of life is multi‐dimensional and covers indicators of physical or functional health status, psychological well‐being and social well‐ being.

Methods

In this context, this Consensus Statement has been developed by a collection of experts in diabetes to summarize the central themes and lessons derived in the assessment and use of person‐reported outcome measures in relation to children and adolescents and their parents/carers, helping to provide a platform for future standardization of these measures for research studies and routine clinical use.

Results

This consensus statement provides an exploration of person‐reported outcomes and how to routinely assess and incorporate into clincial research.
Lateralization‐specific adaptation in auditory cortical evoked potentials: Comparison with frequency‐specificity
Authors: İlhan Barkın , Kurt Saliha , Bolay Yavuz , Ungan Pekcan
Published: December 2024

‘Opponent channels model’ (OCM) is the widely accepted model for cortical representation of sound lateralization. Stimulus‐specific ‘release from adaptation’ (RFA) in cortical responses has been used in previous studies to test the predictions of this model. However, these attempts were shown to be prone to confounds of spurious responses such as those to auditory motion and sound onset. The present study aims to determine whether a multiple‐adaptor RFA algorithm could be employed for relatively confound‐free quantification of the population response of lateralization‐specific auditory cortical neurons, and provide useful data for estimation of the OCM hemifield tuning curves. Two experiments were conducted on 12 volunteers with normal hearing. In Exp.1, quadruple tone pips of either low or high frequency were presented as adaptor, followed by a single tone pip of either frequency as probe. In Exp.2, tone pips were replaced with dichotic click train pips with left‐leading and right‐leading interaural time difference (ITD). Frequency‐ and ITD‐specific RFA in cortical responses N1 and P2 was quantified using global field magnitude difference between ERPs to mismatched and matched adaptor‐probe pairs.

RFA level measured was lower for ITD mismatch than frequency mismatch. Nonetheless, it allowed measurement of ITD‐specific cortical neurons' population response, without any spurious response confound. We proposed a method for extraction of ITD‐specific response magnitude from the N1 response to a lateralized sound. Using it, one can reliably measure the activity of lateralization‐specific cortical neurons, i.e. elicited by moderate ITD changes. This allows estimation of hemifield tuning curves in OCM using ERP data.
Input Tariff Cuts and the Spatial Distribution of Skilled Labor: Evidence From China
Authors: Liu Wenhan , Xiao Wei , Qin Zhilong
Published: December 2024

As China's economy advances toward high‐quality development, how to promote the rational spatial distribution of skilled labor to achieve sustainable regional economic growth has become an urgent issue. This study utilizes microdata from the 2000–2015 Chinese census and tariff data from China covering the same period to empirically regress input tariff cuts on changes in the proportion of skilled labor in cities. The results show that for every 1% decrease in input tariffs, the proportion of skilled labor in cities increases by 0.78%, accounting for 15.22% of the spatial distribution of skilled labor. Mechanism analysis indicates that input tariff cuts facilitate technological progress and subsequently increase skilled labor demand. From an equilibrium perspective, increased skilled labor demand attracts skilled worker inflows, thereby increasing the proportion of skilled labor in cities. Additionally, input tariff cuts have a more significant impact on cities with low trade costs, a high historical proportion of skilled labor, and high labor market flexibility. These findings provide favorable evidence of the micro‐level impact of input tariff cuts on regional skilled labor markets, offering important policy insights into how developing countries similar to China can optimize the spatial distribution of skilled labor through input tariffs.
Papillary and ductal patterns of mesonephric‐like adenocarcinomas are often overlooked: a retrospective revaluation of over 1000 endometrial carcinomas
Authors: Akbari Ardalan , Pors Jennifer , Lum Amy , Leung Samuel , Cochrane Dawn , Jamieson Amy , McAlpine Jessica , Kommoss Stefan , Huvila Jutta , Huntsman David , Talhouk Aline , Singh Naveena , Gilks C Blake , Hoang Lynn
Published: December 2024

Aims

Mesonephric‐like adenocarcinoma (MLA) of the endometrium is often a diagnostic challenge, due to its morphological resemblance to other more common Müllerian neoplasms. This study aimed to retrospectively identify overlooked MLA in a large endometrial carcinoma cohort, using a combination of immunohistochemistry (IHC), morphology and KRAS sequencing.

Methods and results

IHC was conducted on 1094 endometrial carcinomas, identifying 16 potential MLA cases based on GATA3+ and/or TTF1+ and ER− staining patterns, which subsequently underwent detailed histological review, KRAS sequencing and ProMisE molecular classification. Of the IHC screen‐positive cases, one was positive for both GATA3 and TTF1, nine were positive for GATA3 only and six were positive for TTF1 only. All IHC screen‐positive cases were POLE wild‐type. All five tumours in the NSMP category showed morphological features of MLA, while the three MMRd and eight p53abn tumours did not show MLA morphology. The five cases diagnosed as MLA on review were all originally diagnosed as low‐grade endometrioid adenocarcinoma probably because of rare morphological patterns, being predominantly papillary or ductal. Four of the five cases harboured a KRAS mutation.

Conclusion

This study highlights the importance of a comprehensive diagnostic approach for accurately identifying endometrial MLA and for pathologists to be aware of papillary and ductal patterns in endometrial carcinoma assessment. Further exploration into the molecular landscape of MLA is essential for refining diagnostic criteria and developing targeted therapies.
Nucleases: From Primitive Immune Defenders to Modern Biotechnology Tools
Authors: Hernandez Frank J.
Published: December 2024

The story of nucleases begins on the ancient battlefields of early Earth, where simple bacteria fought to survive against viral invaders. Nucleases are enzymes that degrade nucleic acids, with restriction endonucleases emerging as some of the earliest defenders, cutting foreign DNA to protect their bacteria hosts. However, bacteria sought more than just defence. They evolved the CRISPR‐Cas system, an adaptive immune mechanism capable of remembering past invaders. The now‐famous Cas9 nuclease, a key player in this system, has been harnessed for genome editing, revolutionising biotechnology. Over time, nucleases evolved from basic viral defence tools into complex regulators of immune function in higher organisms. In humans, DNases and RNases maintain immune balance by clearing cellular debris, preventing autoimmunity, and defending against pathogens. These enzymes have transformed from simple bacterial defenders to critical players in both human immunity and biotechnology. This review explores the evolutionary history of nucleases and their vital roles as protectors in the story of life's defence mechanisms.
Tolerance during 29 days of conventional dosing with cimetidine, nizatidine, famotidine or ranitidine
Authors: Nwokolo C. U. , Smith J. T. L. , Gavey C. , Sawyerr A. , Pounder R. E.
Published: December 2024

Twenty‐four‐hour intragastric acidity and 24‐h plasma gastrin concentration were measured on four occasions in six groups of eight healthy male subjects. Each group was studied before dosing, and on days 1, 15 and 29 of dosing with a standard regimen of an H2‐receptor antagonist (cimetidine 800 mg node, nizatidine 300 mg node, famotidine 40 mg node, ranitidine 150 mg node, ranitidine 150 mg b.d., or ranitidine 300 mg node). On the first day of dosing, each regimen using an H2‐antagonist caused a significant decrease of intragastric acidity and a significant rise of plasma gastrin concentration. Continued dosing with each Hi‐antagonist resulted in a significant attenuation of the effect on intragastric acidity, which was most noticeable overnight, but no significant change of plasma gastrin concentration. When grouped together, median integrated nocturnal acidity for the 48 subjects was 485, 35, 67 and 117 mmol. h/L for days 0, 1, 15 and 29, respectively, associated with a median nocturnal integrated plasma gastrin concentration of 46, 72, 79 and 73 pmol. h/L.

The study demonstrates that a degree of tolerance develops during continued dosing with all available H2‐receptor antagonists, and that this phenomenon occurs during sustained elevation of plasma gastrin concentration.