bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Age at natural or surgical menopause, all-cause mortality, and lifespan among postmenopausal women in the United States
Authors: Xing Zailing , Kirby Russell S.
Published: February 2024

Objective

This study investigated the association of age at natural menopause with or without undergoing hysterectomy and/or bilateral oophorectomy after menopause and age at surgical menopause with all-cause mortality and lifespan in postmenopausal women.

Methods

The data stemmed from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) (1999-2018) and NHANES III (1988-1994), including 14,161 postmenopausal women over 40. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate unadjusted and adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) (95% confidence intervals [CIs]). We also used Cox proportional hazard models with penalized splines to depict the association between continuous age at menopause and all-cause mortality and nonparametric regression with smoothing splines to illustrate the association between age at menopause and lifespan in deceased participants.

Results

The adjusted HRs (95% CIs) for age at natural menopause of <40, 40 to 44, and 55+ years in women without undergoing hysterectomy or bilateral oophorectomy after menopause were 1.48 (1.15-1.91), 1.16 (1.00-1.35), and 0.91 (0.77-1.07) compared with age at natural menopause of 45 to 54, respectively. The respective HRs (95% CIs) for age at surgical menopause were 1.39 (1.11-1.75), 1.09 (0.86-1.38), and 0.83 (0.53-1.32). However, no significant association was found between age at natural menopause and all-cause mortality among women undergoing hysterectomy and/or bilateral oophorectomy after menopause. When treated as continuous variables, age at natural menopause without undergoing hysterectomy or bilateral oophorectomy after menopause presented inverse and nonlinear associations with all-cause mortality, whereas age at surgical menopause was linearly inversely associated with all-cause mortality. The association between age at menopause and lifespan was linearly positive regardless of menopausal type.

Conclusion

Young age at menopause was associated with increased risks of all-cause mortality. The later menopause age was related to a longer lifespan.
Noninvasive pediatric blood pressure assessment: exploring the clinicians’ perspective
Authors: Stewart Natalie P. , Quinlan Catherine , Best Stephanie , Mynard Jonathan P.
Published: February 2024

Background

Obtaining accurate and reliable blood pressure (BP) readings in pediatric patients is challenging, given difficulties in adhering to measurement guidelines, limited device validation and variable patient cooperation. This study aimed to investigate clinicians’ perspectives surrounding noninvasive pediatric BP assessment to identify opportunities for improvement in BP technology and clinical practice.

Method

Based on an adapted version of the extended Technology Acceptance Model 2, semi-structured interviews were conducted with clinicians involved in noninvasive pediatric BP assessment in a major Australian children’s hospital. Transcripts were analyzed thematically and guided by Technology Acceptance Model 2.

Results

Clinician responses (n = 20) revealed that poor patient tolerance of BP measurement resulting from excessive cuff inflation is a major hindrance to reliable pediatric BP assessment. Clinicians described low trust in BP readings from automated devices, often relating to poor patient tolerance to cuff inflation, thereby diminishing the clinical utility of these readings in informing treatment decisions. Auscultatory measurement was regarded as more trustworthy and better tolerated, but less convenient to perform as compared with oscillometric measurement.

Conclusion

A dissonance exists between (1) low trust and clinical utility of the most common and easy-to-use BP measurement approach (automated devices), versus (2) higher trust and clinical utility, but efficiency and user-related impediments, for the auscultatory method. Based on our results, we have developed the Blood Pressure Acceptance Model, which can be used to explain and predict clinicians’ acceptance of BP technology. Further work is needed to improve the tolerability and accuracy of automated BP devices in real-world pediatric settings.
Postnatal Care: A Comparative Review of Guidelines
Authors: Giouleka Sonia , Tsakiridis Ioannis , Kostakis Nikolaos , Boureka Eirini , Mamopoulos Apostolos , Kalogiannidis Ioannis , Athanasiadis Apostolos , Dagklis Themistoklis
Published: February 2024

Importance

Postnatal care refers to the ongoing health care provision of both the mother and her offspring and contributes to the timely identification and effective management of complications in the postpartum period, to secure maternal and infant short- and long-term well-being.

Objective

The aim of this study was to review and compare the most recently published influential guidelines on postnatal care practices.

Evidence Acquisition

A comparative review of guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the World Health Organization, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, and the Public Health Agency of Canada regarding postnatal care was conducted.

Results

There is a consensus among the reviewed guidelines regarding the importance of health care provision in the postpartum period, including home visits and midwifery services, the use of telemedicine for the facilitation of communication with the patient, and the appropriate preparation for discharge, as well as the discharge criteria. All medical societies also agree on the clinical aspects that should be evaluated at each postnatal visit, although discrepancies exist with regard to the contact schedule. In addition, there is consistency regarding the management of postpartum infections, perineal pain, fecal and urinary incontinence, and physical activity guidance. Mental health issues should be addressed at each postnatal visit, according to all guidelines, but there is disagreement regarding routine screening for depression. As for the optimal interpregnancy interval, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends avoiding pregnancy for at least 6 months postpartum, whereas the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence recommends a 12-month interval. There is no common pathway regarding the recommended contraceptive methods, the nutrition guidance, and the postpartum management of pregnancy complications. Of note, the World Health Organization alone provides recommendations concerning the prevention of specific infections during the postnatal period.

Conclusions

Postnatal care remains a relatively underserved aspect of maternity care, although the puerperium is a critical period for the establishment of motherhood and the transition to primary care. Thus, the development of consistent international protocols for the optimal care and support of women during the postnatal period seems of insurmountable importance to safely guide clinical practice and subsequently reduce maternal and neonatal morbidity.

Target Audience

Obstetricians and gynecologists, family physicians

Learning Objectives

After participating in this activity, the learner should be better able to describe all the aspects of postnatal care; explain the appropriate clinical evaluation plan during the postnatal period; and assess the available postpartum care promotion techniques.
An Obstetrician-Gynecologist's Review of Hernias: Risk Factors, Diagnosis, Prevention, and Repair
Authors: Knochenhauer Hope E. , Lim Stephanie L. , Brown David A. , Darner Grant , Levinson Howard , Havrilesky Laura J. , Previs Rebecca A.
Published: February 2024

(Abstracted from Am J Obstet Gynecol 2023;229:214–221)

Ventral hernias are abnormal protrusions of organs through the abdominal wall that are commonly experienced by obstetrical and gynecologic patients. Women are more likely to undergo emergency repair of their hernias than men, which results in increased morbidity, emphasizing the unmet need for earlier diagnosis and management of ventral and incisional hernias in women.
Effects of the ARRIVE (A Randomized Trial of Induction Versus Expectant Management) Trial on Elective Induction and Obstetric Outcomes in Term Nulliparous Patients
Authors: Nethery Elizabeth , Levy Barbara , McLean Kate , Sitcov Kristin , Souter Vivienne L.
Published: February 2024

(Abstracted from Obstet Gynecol 2023;142:242–250)

A few years ago, the ARRIVE trial (A Randomized Trail of Induction Versus Expectant Management) reported that elective induction of labor at 39 weeks of gestation in low-risk nulliparous patients decreased the risk of cesarean birth and of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy compared with expectant management. This presented a possible means to decrease the high rates of cesarean delivery among this patient group.
Reducing Human Album Solution Use in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Inata Yu , Nakagami-Yamaguchi Etsuko , Hatachi Takeshi , Ito Yukie , Akamatsu Takaaki , Takeuchi Muneyuki
Published: February 2024

Introduction:

Evidence for outcome improvement is limited for using 5% human albumin solution (5% albumin) in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs). However, 5% albumin was injudiciously used in our PICU. Therefore, we aimed to decrease 5% albumin use in pediatric patients (17 years old or younger) in the PICU by 50% in 12 months to improve health care efficiency.

Methods:

We plotted the mean 5% albumin volume used per PICU admission monthly on statistical process control charts through 3 study periods: baseline period before intervention (July 2019–June 2020), phase 1 (August 2020–April 2021), and phase 2 (May 2021–April 2022). With intervention 1, education, feedback, and an alert sign on 5% albumin stocks began in July 2020. This intervention continued until May 2021, when we executed intervention 2, removing 5% albumin from the PICU inventory. We also examined the lengths of invasive mechanical ventilation and PICU stay as balancing measures across the 3 periods.

Results:

Mean 5% albumin consumption per PICU admission decreased significantly from 48.1 to 22.4 mL after intervention 1 and 8.3 mL after intervention 2, with the intervention effects persisting for 12 months. Costs associated with 5% albumin per PICU admission significantly decreased by 82%. In terms of patient characteristics and balancing measures, the 3 periods were not different.

Conclusions:

Stepwise quality improvement interventions, including the system change with the elimination of the 5% albumin inventory from the PICU, were effective in reducing 5% albumin use in the PICU with sustained reduction.
Anatomic Lung Resection Outcomes After Implementation of a Universal Thoracic ERAS Protocol Across a Diverse Healthcare System
Authors: Dyas Adam R. , Stuart Christina M. , Bronsert Michael R. , Kelleher Alyson D. , Bata Kyle E. , Cumbler Ethan U. , Erickson Crystal J. , Blum Matthew G. , Vizena Annette S. , Barker Alison R. , Funk Lauren , Sack Karishma , Abrams Benjamin A. , Randhawa Simran K. , David Elizabeth A. , Mitchell John D. , Weyant Michael J. , Scott Christopher D. , Meguid Robert A.
Published: February 2024

Objective:

We sought to evaluate how implementing a thoracic Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol impacted surgical outcomes after elective anatomic lung resection.

Summary Background Data:

The effect of implementing the ERAS Society/European Society of Thoracic Surgery (ESTS) thoracic ERAS protocol on postoperative outcomes throughout an entire healthcare system has not yet been reported.

Methods:

This was a prospective cohort study within one healthcare system (1/2019-3/2023). A thoracic ERAS protocol was implemented on 5/1/2021 for elective anatomic lung resections, and postoperative outcomes were tracked using the electronic health record and Vizient data. The primary outcome was overall morbidity; secondary outcomes included individual complications, length of stay (LOS), opioid use, chest tube duration, and total cost. Patients were grouped into pre- and post-ERAS cohorts. Bivariable comparisons were performed using independent t-test, chi-square, or Fisher’s exact tests, and multivariable logistic regression was performed to control for confounders.

Results:

There were 1,007 patients in the cohort; 450 (44.7%) were in the post-ERAS group. Mean age was 66.2 years; most patients were female (65.1%), white (83.8%), had a BMI between 18.5-29.9 (69.7%), and were ASA class 3 (80.6%). Patients in the post-implementation group had lower risk-adjusted rates of any morbidity, any respiratory complication, pneumonia, surgical site infection, arrhythmias, infections, opioid usage, ICU use, and shorter postoperative LOS (all P<0.05).

Conclusions:

Postoperative outcomes were improved after implementation of an evidence-based thoracic ERAS protocol throughout the healthcare system. This study validates the ERAS Society/ESTS guidelines and demonstrates that simultaneous multihospital implementation can be feasible and effective.
Analysis of >15 000 Solid Organ Transplant Recipients Reveals Nonanal Genitourinary HPV-related Disease as Highest Risk Predictor for Anal Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions/Anal Cancer
Authors: Freeman Matthew J. , Yang Qiuyu , Cherney-Stafford Linda , Striker Rob , Foley David P. , Al-Adra David P. , Sanger Cristina B.
Published: February 2024

Background.

Solid organ transplantation is a risk predictor for virally-mediated anal squamous intraepithelial lesions and cancer (anal disease). Precancerous squamous intraepithelial lesions can be detected by screening, and treatment may prevent cancer progression. Screening recommendations are not well defined. We aim to define prevalence and describe risk predictors for anal disease in a large population of solid organ transplant recipients.

Methods.

Retrospective single-center cohort analysis included solid organ transplant recipients cared for between 2001 and 2022 (N = 15 362). The cohort of recipients who developed anal disease was compared with those who did not. Greedy propensity score matching was performed for organ-specific recipients, and time-to-event analysis for the development of anal disease was performed in those with genitourinary human papilloma virus (HPV) disease versus those without.

Results.

Prevalence of anal disease was 0.6% (cancer 0.2%). The average years from transplant to the diagnosis of anal disease was 11.67. Anal disease was more common in women (68.5% versus 31.5%, P < 0.001), patients who had other HPV-related genitourinary diseases (40.4% versus 0.6%, P < 0.001), who were of younger age at transplant (39.62 versus 46.58, P < 0.001), and had increased years from transplant (17.06 versus 12.57, P < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, the odds of anal disease increased by 4% each year posttransplant. History of genitourinary HPV disease (odds ratio 69.63) and female sex (odds ratio 1.96) were the most significant risk predictors for anal disease.

Conclusions.

The prevalence of anal cancer among solid organ transplant recipients was equal to the general population (0.2%). Due to the low prevalence of overall disease, these data suggest that anal screenings in transplant recipients should be targeted to higher-risk subsets: female recipients farther out from transplant and patients with genitourinary HPV-related diseases.
Small-molecule-based regulation of gene expression in human astrocytes upon both positive and negative actuations of G-quadruplex control systems
Authors: Kumar M. J. Vijay , Mitteaux Jeremie , Wang Zi , Wheeler Ellery , Tandon Nitin , Jung Sung Yun , Hudson Robert H. E. , Monchaud David , Tsvetkov Andrey S.
Published: February 2024

A great deal of attention is currently being paid to strategies aiming at uncovering the biology of the four-stranded nucleic acid structure G-quadruplex (G4) via their stabilization in cells using G4-specific ligands. The conventional definition of chemical biology implies that a complete assessment of G4 biology can only be achieved through the implementation of a complementary approach involving the destabilization of cellular G4s by ad hoc molecular effectors. We report here on an unprecedented comparison of the cellular consequences of G4 chemical stabilization by pyridostatin (PDS) and destabilization by phenylpyrrolocytosine (PhpC) at both transcriptome- and proteome-wide scales in patient-derived human brain cells. Our results show that the stabilization of G4s by PDS triggers the dysregulation of many cellular circuitries, the most drastic effects originating in the downregulation of 354 transcripts and 158 proteins primarily involved in RNA transactions. In contrast, the destabilization of G4s by PhpC modulates the G4 landscapes in a far more focused manner with the upregulation of 295 proteins mostly involved in RNA transactions as well, thus mirroring the effects of PDS. Our study is the first of its kind to report on the extent of G4-associated cellular circuitries in human cells by systematically pitting the effect of G4 stabilization against destabilization in a direct and unbiased manner.
Magneto-optical anisotropies of two-dimensional antiferromagnetic
MPX3
from first principles
Authors: Rybak Miłosz , Faria Junior Paulo E. , Woźniak Tomasz , Scharoch Pawel , Fabian Jaroslav , Birowska Magdalena
Published: February 2024

Here we systematically investigate the impact of the spin direction on the electronic and optical properties of transition metal phosphorus trichalcogenides (MPX3, M=Mn, Ni, Fe; X=S, Se) exhibiting various antiferromagnetic arrangements within the 2D limit. Our analysis based on the density functional theory and versatile formalism of Bethe-Salpeter equation reveals larger exciton binding energies for MPS3 (up to 1.1 eV in air) than MPSe3 (up to 0.8 eV in air), exceeding the values of transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs). For the (Mn,Fe)PX3, we determine the optically active band-edge transitions, revealing that they are sensitive to in-plane magnetic order, irrespective of the type of chalcogen atom. We predict the anistropic effective masses and the type of linear polarization as important fingerprints for sensing the type of magnetic AFM arrangements. Furthermore, we identify the spin-orientation-dependent features such as the valley splitting, the effective mass of holes, and the exciton binding energy. In particular, we demonstrate that for MnPX3 (X=S, Se), a pair of nonequivalent K+ and K− points exists yielding the valley splittings that strongly depend on the direction of AFM aligned spins. Notably, for the out-of-plane direction of spins, two distinct peaks are expected to be visible below the absorption onset, whereas one peak should emerge for the in-plane configuration of spins. These spin-dependent features provide an insight into spin flop transitions of 2D materials. Finally, we propose a strategy for how the spin valley polarization can be realized in 2D AFM within a honeycomb lattice.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Entropy of flat space cosmologies from celestial dual
Authors: Bhattacharjee Arindam , Saha Muktajyoti
Published: February 2024

We construct a one-dimensional dual theory that effectively describes the sector of the (2+1)D flat gravity phase space near a flat space cosmology saddle labeled by definite mass and angular momentum. This Schwarzian-type action describes the dynamics of the (pseudo-)Goldstone bosons of BMS3 algebra on a circle as the symmetry is spontaneously and anomalously broken. This 1D theory, living on the celestial circle, provides the first explicit construction of a celestial dual theory in (2+1)D. We use it to calculate the semiclassical entropy of flat space cosmologies and find perfect agreement with existing literature.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Positronium Laser Cooling via the
13S−23P
Transition with a Broadband Laser Pulse
Authors: Glöggler L. T. , Gusakova N. , Rienäcker B. , Camper A. , Caravita R. , Huck S. , Volponi M. , Wolz T. , Penasa L. , Krumins V. , Gustafsson F. P. , Comparat D. , Auzins M. , Bergmann B. , Burian P. , Brusa R. S. , Castelli F. , Cerchiari G. , Ciuryło R. , Consolati G. , Doser M. , Graczykowski Ł. , Grosbart M. , Guatieri F. , Haider S. , Janik M. A. , Kasprowicz G. , Khatri G. , Kłosowski Ł. , Kornakov G. , Lappo L. , Linek A. , Malamant J. , Mariazzi S. , Petracek V. , Piwiński M. , Pospíšil S. , Povolo L. , Prelz F. , Rangwala S. A. , Rauschendorfer T. , Rawat B. S. , Rodin V. , Røhne O. M. , Sandaker H. , Smolyanskiy P. , Sowiński T. , Tefelski D. , Vafeiadis T. , Welsch C. P. , Zawada M. , Zielinski J. , Zurlo N. ,   AEḡIS Collaboration
Published: February 2024

We report on laser cooling of a large fraction of positronium (Ps) in free flight by strongly saturating the 13S−23P transition with a broadband, long-pulsed 243 nm alexandrite laser. The ground state Ps cloud is produced in a magnetic and electric field-free environment. We observe two different laser-induced effects. The first effect is an increase in the number of atoms in the ground state after the time Ps has spent in the long-lived 23P states. The second effect is one-dimensional Doppler cooling of Ps, reducing the cloud’s temperature from 380(20) to 170(20) K. We demonstrate a 58(9)% increase in the fraction of Ps atoms with v1D<3.7×104  ms−1.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Effect of nano-Al2O3 particle addition on Co–P–xAl2O3 nanocomposite plating electroplated on X65 steel
Authors: Liang Guangwei , Gao Zhiming , Deng Cheng-Man , Hu Wenbin
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to reveal the effect of nano-Al2O3 particle addition on the nucleation/growth kinetics, microhardness, wear resistance and corrosion resistance of Co–P–xAl2O3 nanocomposite plating.

Design/methodology/approach

The kinetics and properties of Co–P–xAl2O3 nanocomposite plating prepared by electroplating were investigated by electrochemical measurements, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Vickers microhardness measurement, SRV5 friction and wear tester and atomic force microscopy.

Findings

A 12 g/L nano-Al2O3 addition in the plating solution can transform the nucleation/growth kinetics of the plating from the 3D progressive model to the 3D instantaneous model. The microhardness of the plating increased with the increase of nano-Al2O3 content in plating. The wear resistance of the plating did not adhere strictly to Archard’s law. An even and denser corrosion product film was generated due to the finer grains, with a high corrosion resistance.

Originality/value

The effect of different nano-Al2O3 addition on the nucleation/growth kinetics and properties of Co–P–xAl2O3 nanocomposite plating was investigated, and an anticorrosion mechanism of Co–P–xAl2O3 nanocomposite plating was proposed.
Time-varying window-based herding detection in the non-fungible token (NFT) marketplace
Authors: De Silva Eminda Ishan , Kuruppu Gayithri Niluka , Dassanayake Sandun
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The non-fungible token (NFT) market had undergone dramatic growth and a sudden decline during 2021–2022. The market experienced a surge in prices in late 2021 and early 2022, with NFTs being sold at inflated prices. Despite this, by April 2022, the market underwent a correction, and the prices of NFTs returned to more reasonable levels. This can be a result of imitating the actions or judgments of a larger group, which is not systematically proven yet. Therefore, this study systematically investigates the applicability of herding behavior in the NFT market.

Design/methodology/approach

This research employs cross-sectional absolute deviation (CSAD) of returns and ordinary least squares (OLS) to test herding behavior with moving time windows of 10, 20 and 30 days based on the sales data collected from public interface of OpenSea between July 1, 2021 and June 30, 2022. Additionally, NFT-related keyword usage analysis is done for the detected herding periods.

Findings

As per the results of the data analyzed, herding behavior was evidenced using 10-, 20- and 30-day time windows from July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022because of media movement. The findings revealed that this behavior was present and aligned with the overall behavior of the market.

Originality/value

This study introduces CSAD to examine herding behavior patterns within the NFT market. Complementing this method, keyword count-based analysis is employed to identify the underlying causes of herding behavior. Through this comprehensive approach, this study not only uncovers the roots of herding behavior but also offers an assessment of the time windows during which it occurs, considering the plausible socioeconomic contexts that influence these trends.
Unraveling psychological dilemma among miners in the context of low-carbon transformation: an ISM-MICMAC approach
Authors: Han Shuai , Sun Tongtong , Jiskani Izhar Mithal , Guo Daoyan , Liang Xinrui , Wei Zhen
Published: February 2024

Purpose

With the rapid low-carbon transformation in China, the industrial approach and labor structure of mining enterprises are undergoing constant changes, leading to an increasing psychological dilemma faced by coal miners. This study aims to reveal the relationship and mechanism of factors influencing the psychological dilemma of miners, and to provide optimal intervention strategies for the safety and sustainable development of employees and enterprises.

Design/methodology/approach

To effectively address the complex issue of the psychological dilemma faced by miners, this study identifies and constructs five-dimensional elements, comprising 20 indicators, that influence psychological dilemmas. The relational mechanism of action of factors influencing psychological dilemma was then elucidated using an integration of interpretive structural modeling and cross-impact matrix multiplication.

Findings

Industry dilemma perception is a “direct” factor with dependent attributes. The perceptions of management response and relationship dilemmas are “root” factors with driving attributes. Change adaptation dilemma perception is a “susceptibility” factor with linkage attributes. Work dilemma perception is a “blunt” factor with both dependent and autonomous attributes.

Originality/value

The aforementioned findings offer a critical theoretical and practical foundation for developing systematic and cascading intervention strategies to address the psychological dilemma mining enterprises face, which contributes to advancing a high-quality coal industry and efficient energy development.
Understanding practices which foster inclusion: views from the top
Authors: de Largy Christine , Anderson Deirdre , Vinnicombe Susan
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aims to deepen our understanding of how inclusionary practices are used within organizations and how they satisfy specific inclusion needs.

Design/methodology/approach

We adopt a qualitative research design, reporting on data from semi-structured interviews conducted with 15 diversity and inclusion (D&I) directors/leads and using a thematic approach to analysis.

Findings

Our study expands understanding of inclusion practices, showing that they are not uniformly implemented and that practices may satisfy both needs to belong and differences valued, with interviewees prioritizing belonging. Well-being and career development are seen as important inclusion practices demonstrating support and appreciation of difference, thus as inputs, not outputs, of inclusion challenging existing assumptions. Inclusionary practices are malleable, and their impact depends critically on the leaders involved and their commitment to EDI.

Originality/value

Our study shows how practices satisfy inclusion needs and that the implementation of practices varies depending on the leaders involved.
Blockchain for data protection and cyber fraud reduction: systematic literature review and technology adoption dynamics among gen Y and Z
Authors: Suri Ankit , Sharma Yogesh , Jindal Lokesh , Sijariya Rajeev
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of blockchain technology in reducing online fraud among Gen Y and Gen Z.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a two-phase approach. Firstly, a systematic literature review is conducted to examine various aspects of blockchain technology and cyber security. Secondly, the Technology Adoption Model is used to study the adoption dynamics of blockchain-based platforms for online data exchange among 415 Gen Y and Z users.

Findings

The results indicate that efficiency and security, perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and trust have a positive effect on behavioral intention and attitude towards use. This is the first study to examine the role of blockchain technology to reduce fraud among Gen Y and Gen Z.

Originality/value

This study provides new insights into the adoption of blockchain-based platforms for online data exchange among Gen Y and Gen Z. The study highlights the critical areas of concern for the adoption of blockchain technology and provides managerial implications for fintech firms, banks, and e-commerce platforms. It is unique in its focus on the potential for blockchain technology to reduce fraud among Gen Y and Gen Z, which has not been previously explored in the literature.
Gender employment contradictions in Israeli nonprofit organizations providing social care
Authors: Livnat Inbar , Almog-Bar Michal
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This article asks how gender, ethnicity and other identities intersect and shape the employment experiences of social workers. During recent decades, governments have contracted social care to for-profit and nonprofit organizations (NPOs) globally as a part of the adaption of the neoliberal approach. Most employees in these organizations are women. However, there is a lack of knowledge about women working in social service NPOs and their unique working environments.

Design/methodology/approach

This article explores the experiences of women employed as social workers in social care NPOs in Israel regarding intersectionality. 27 in-depth interviews were conducted with women social workers working in social service NPOs. Participants reflected diversity in ethnicity, religion and full-time and part-time jobs. Thematic analysis was used.

Findings

The findings shed light on: (1) the contradiction social workers experienced between the stated values of the social care NPO and those values’ conduct, (2) intersectional discrimination among social workers from vulnerable populations and (3) the lack of gender-aware policies.

Social implications

The need to raise awareness of the social care sector and governments to those contradictions and to promote diversity through gender-aware policies and practices.

Originality/value

The article suggests a conceptualization describing gender employment contradictions in social care NPOs, discusses how the angle of intersectionality expands the understanding of the complexities and pressures exerted on social workers from minority groups and emphasizes the need for social care NPOs to acknowledge and deal with these contradictions.
Role of perceived risks and perceived benefits on consumers behavioural intention to use Buy-Now, Pay-Later (BNPL) services
Authors: Raj Vijay Amrit , Jasrotia Sahil Singh , Rai Siddharth Shankar
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Perceived risk and benefits have been proposed as crucial elements in consumers’ technology adoption intention. Therefore, this study aims to use the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2) framework, with perceived risks and benefits, to explore how they affect consumers’ Buy-Now-Pay-Later (BNPL) behavioural intention.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey was conducted among 537 users of BNPL. Partial least square structural equation modelling analysis was performed to examine the hypothesized relationships.

Findings

The study found that perceived benefits, performance expectancy, effort expectancy, habit and social influence increase consumers’ behavioural intention towards BNPL. In contrast, perceived risk reduces the consumer’s intention to use. Additionally, the study revealed that consumers’ intention towards BNPL services positively affects their usage.

Practical implications

The lack of information makes consumers hesitant to use BNPL. Therefore, marketers should optimize facilitating conditions, such as user-friendly interfaces, accessible resources and efficient customer support, which should be the business strategy of BNPL service providers to ensure a seamless user experience.

Originality/value

The research empirically investigates the effect of perceived benefits on consumer behavioural intention. This contribution is crucial because while there was speculation about benefits as a driving force to consumers’ adoption intention, there was a lack of sufficient empirical evidence to support it.
Risk governance and regulatory adjustments in the public commercial banks of OECD
Authors: Malik Muddassar
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the relationship between risk governance characteristics (chief risk officer [CRO], chief financial officer [CFO] and senior directors [SENIOR]) and regulatory adjustments (RAs) in Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development public commercial banks.

Design/methodology/approach

Using principal component analysis (PCA) and regression models, the research analyzes a representative data set of these banks.

Findings

A significant negative correlation between risk governance characteristics and RAs is found. Sensitivity analysis on the regulatory Tier 1 capital ratio and the total capital ratio indicates mixed outcomes, suggesting a complex relationship that warrants further exploration.

Research limitations/implications

The study’s limited sample size calls for further research to confirm findings and explore risk governance’s impact on banks’ capital structures.

Practical implications

Enhanced risk governance could reduce RAs, influencing banking policy.

Social implications

The study advocates for improved banking regulatory practices, potentially increasing sector stability and public trust.

Originality/value

This study contributes to understanding risk governance’s role in regulatory compliance, offering insights for policymaking in banking.
Thailand, the forgotten market for international student recruitment? A qualitative study into the strategies of regional Australian universities
Authors: Chin Daniel , van der Laan Luke , Surachartkumtonkun Jiraporn
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore how student recruitment practitioners at regional Australian universities strategise student recruitment efforts in Thailand. There is scarce research addressing regional universities, with prior studies focusing on metropolitan universities. Similarly, most prior studies have focused on high-volume markets, with little research exploring emerging markets such as Thailand.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with student recruitment practitioners from regional universities that were responsible for recruiting Thai students. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify key themes.

Findings

Regional universities lack strategic ambidexterity in their approach to recruiting international students. They viewed Thailand as requiring longer term investment and were unwilling to dedicate their limited resources towards developing this market at the expense of other markets that would yield enrolments to contribute towards short-term targets.

Practical implications

Implications are provided with relevance to the student recruitment practitioner, with strategic ambidexterity discussed.

Originality/value

The paper fills a gap in the research by exploring international student recruitment and contextualising both regional universities and Thailand as a recruitment market. This study provides useful considerations that may be relevant to other emerging markets.
The intention to adopt metaverse in Islamic banks: an integrated theoretical framework of TAM and religiosity intention model
Authors: Alshurafat Hashem , Arabiat Omar , Shehadeh Maha
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the intention to adopt the Metaverse in Islamic banks, with a particular focus on evaluating perceived usefulness, ease of use, user satisfaction and the influence of religiosity. Integrating the technology adoption model (TAM) and religiosity intention model, this study will dissect the multidimensional aspects influencing the acceptance of Metaverse technologies.

Design/methodology/approach

Surveying Islamic bank professionals in Jordan, this study used a structured questionnaire and data augmentation to analyze Metaverse adoption factors. Using partial least squares-structural equation modeling, the relationships between ease of use, usefulness, religiosity and satisfaction were explored.

Findings

The study identifies pivotal relationships among perceived usefulness, ease of use, user satisfaction and religiosity in the context of adopting metaverse technologies in Islamic banks in Jordan. Evidence highlights the dominant role of perceived usefulness and ease in influencing both intention to use and satisfaction levels. Religiosity, while not a direct influencer, plays a collaborative role, underscoring a balanced mix of technological and religious elements that will potentially shape the adoption trajectory of metaverse technologies within this specific banking sector.

Practical implications

Integrating metaverse technologies in Islamic banks necessitates balancing technological advances with Sharia compliance. The study underscores the importance of aligning user experience with religious values and fostering innovation within Islamic ethical guidelines.

Originality/value

This study uniquely integrates the TAM and religiosity-intention model to explore metaverse adoption in Islamic banks, unveiling a nuanced interplay between technology and religious values. It offers practical insights for tailoring innovations in the Islamic financial ecosystem.
Reimagining learning through AI art: the promise of DALL-E and MidJourney for education and libraries
Authors: Adetayo Adebowale Jeremy
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the potential impact of artificial intelligence (AI) image generators, specifically MidJourney and DALL-E, on education and library services. The study aims to understand how these tools can revolutionize learning experiences and library resources while also addressing the ethical considerations surrounding their use.

Design/methodology/approach

This study investigates the technical foundations of MidJourney and DALL-E, highlighting their neural network architectures. It also traces the iterative refinement of these models and examines cost, accessibility and the unique prompt-guided capabilities of DALL-E 3.

Findings

MidJourney and DALL-E show remarkable progress in generating high-quality, photorealistic images from text prompts. The iterative refinement of these models demonstrates a trend toward improved creative output and user accessibility. DALL-E 3, in particular, allows users to guide image generation through prompt modifications, offering unprecedented control over the creative process. The study identifies potential applications in personalized learning, visual communication and research support in libraries, while recognizing challenges such as cost and accessibility.

Originality/value

This research innovatively explores AI's impact on education and libraries, detailing applications in personalized learning and research while addressing legal and ethical considerations.
MultiSensory Music Drama with a student with severe/profound intellectual and multiple disabilities: A case study of teacher–researcher co‐production
Authors: Johnels Linn , Wilder Jenny , Vehmas Simo
Published: February 2024

The feasibility of a pedagogical approach—MultiSensory Music Drama (MSMD)—was investigated in collaboration with a teacher and a student with severe/profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (S/PIMD). Educational research for this group of learners is scarce, but research has suggested the potential of integrating music and multisensory storytelling to promote interactive engagement. A case study using co‐production between a teacher and researchers was conducted. The development, implementation and evaluation of MSMD lessons were performed, by carrying out the lessons, iteratively refining them through stimulated recall interviews and ratings of student engagement. The long‐term feasibility was investigated through a post‐intervention survey and a follow‐up interview. Inductive content analysis was used for data analysis. In‐depth descriptions of the implementation process are provided. The teacher found the MSMD approach useful in relation to the syllabus and motivating for the student. She reported that she had continued to use MSMD with all of her students and that several of her colleagues had started to use it as well. Our results suggest that MSMD can be a meaningful approach for practitioners working with these learners. The study also reveals aspects of professional knowledge when working with students with S/PIMD.
Asymptotics for the conditional self‐weighted M$$ M $$ estimator of GRCA(p$$ p $$) models and its statistical inference
Authors: Yao Chi , Yu Wei , Wang Xuejun
Published: February 2024

Under the ‐order generalised random coefficient autoregressive (GRCA()) model with random coefficients we propose a conditional self‐weighted estimator of . We investigate the asymptotic normality of this estimator with possibly heavy‐tailed random variables. Furthermore, a Wald test statistic is constructed for the linear restriction on the parameters. In addition, the simulation experiments are carried out to assess the finite sample performance of theoretical results. Finally, a real data analysis about the increase (%) in the number of construction projects this year over the same period of last year is provided.
Piceatannol selectively inhibited the JNK3 enzyme and augmented apoptosis through inhibition of Bcl‐2/Cyt‐c/caspase‐dependent pathways in the oxygen–glucose deprived SHSY‐5Y cell lines: In silico and in vitro study
Authors: Rajan Ravi Kumar , Ramanathan M.
Published: February 2024

JNK3, a neuronal kinase activated by stress, plays a role in stress‐induced apoptosis, leading to neuronal cell death following cerebral ischemia. This study investigates the neuroprotective effects of piceatannol (PCT) in SHSY‐5Y neuroblastoma cells after hypoxic injury and its interaction with JNK3. We analyzed the crystal coordinates, interaction energies, and amino acid interactions to determine PCT's selectivity for JNK3. The electrostatic potential was computed using density functional theory, while molecular dynamics assessed the stability and structural consistency of the JNK3‐PCT complex. We used SP600125 (SP6), a JNK3 inhibitor, as a reference compound. Additionally, we performed cell‐free JNK 1, 2, and 3 kinase assays to evaluate the isoform selectivity of PCT. Cytotoxicity and cell viability were determined by an MTT test. To assess apoptosis, we used acridine orange/ethidium bromide dual fluorescent labeling and ANNEXIN A5‐FITC flow cytometry. Western blot was used to evaluate the attenuation of JNK3 and apoptotic proteins. In silico studies revealed a stronger binding affinity between PCT and JNK3 compared to JNK1 and JNK2, which was further supported by the in vitro kinase assay. PCT‐treated cells exhibited a decrease in Cyt‐c and caspase‐3 expression and an increase in Bcl‐2 level, compared to hypoxic control (p < .001). PCT also demonstrated superior efficacy over SP6 in inhibiting JNK3 phosphorylation (p < .001). Furthermore, PCT significantly increased the expression of neuronal genes, including NgN1, neuroD2, and survivin (p < .001). In conclusion, PCT is a potential JNK3 inhibitor, since it inhibited phosphorylation and the Bcl‐2/Cyt‐C/caspase‐3‐dependent apoptotic pathway after ischemic/hypoxic insult.
Social determinants of health and health disparities in glaucoma: A review
Authors: Acuff Kaela , Wu Jo‐Hsuan , Varkhedi Varsha , Baxter Sally L.
Published: February 2024

Social determinants of health and barriers to care can significantly impact patients' access to glaucoma care and treatment, resulting in disparities within disease presentation, progression, management, and treatment outcomes. The widespread adoption of electronic health record systems has allowed researchers and clinicians to further explore these relationships, identifying factors such as race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status to be risk factors for more severe disease and lower treatment adherence. These disparities highlight potential targets for interventions to combat these disparities and improve overall patient outcomes. This article provides a summary of the available data on health disparities within glaucoma disease presentation, progression, management, treatment, and outcomes and discusses interventions to improve care delivery and outcomes among patients with glaucoma.
Temporal and spatial variability of dynamic microstate brain network in disorders of consciousness
Authors: Li Yaqian , Gao Junfeng , Yang Ying , Zhuang Yutong , Kang Qianruo , Li Xiang , Tian Min , Lv Haoan , He Jianghong
Published: February 2024

Background

Accurately diagnosing patients with the vegetative state (VS) and the minimally conscious state (MCS) reached a misdiagnosis of approximately 40%.

Methods

A method combined microstate and dynamic functional connectivity (dFC) to study the spatiotemporal variability of the brain in disorders of consciousness (DOC) patients was proposed. Resting‐state EEG data were obtained from 16 patients with MCS and 16 patients with VS. Mutual information (MI) was used to assess the EEG connectivity in each microstate. MI‐based features with statistical differences were selected as the total feature subset (TFS), then the TFS was utilized to feature selection and fed into the classifier, obtaining the optimal feature subsets (OFS) in each microstate. Subsequently, an OFS‐based MI functional connectivity network (MIFCN) was constructed in the cortex.

Results

The group‐average MI connectivity matrix focused on all channels revealed that all five microstates exhibited stronger information interaction in the MCS when comparing with the VS. While OFS‐based MIFCN, which only focused on a few channels, revealed greater MI flow in VS patients than in MCS patients under microstates A, B, C, and E, except for microstate D. Additionally, the average classification accuracy of OFS in the five microstates was 96.2%.

Conclusion

Constructing features based on microstates to distinguish between two categories of DOC patients had effectiveness.