bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impacts of adverse environmental factors on construction workers' attention allocation during hazard identification: a study of noise and heat exposure
Authors: Ouyang Yewei , Huang Guoqing , He Shiyi
Published: September 2024

Purpose

There are many safety hazards in construction workplaces, and inattention to the hazards is the main reason why construction workers failed to identify the hazards. Reasonably allocating attention during hazard identification is critical for construction workers’ safety. However, adverse working environments in job sites may undermine workers’ attention. Previous studies failed to investigate the impacts of environmental factors on attention allocation, which hinders taking appropriate measures to eliminate safety incidents when encountering adverse working environments. This study aims to examine the effects of workplace noise and heat exposure on workers’ attention allocation during construction hazard identification to fill the research gap.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applied an experimental study where a within-subject experiment was designed. Fifteen construction workers were invited to perform hazard identification tasks in panoramic virtual reality. They were exposed to three noise levels (60, 85 and 100 dBA) in four thermal conditions (26°C, 50% RH; 33°C, 50% RH; 30°C, 70% RH; 33°C, 70% RH). Their eye movements were recorded to indicate their attention allocation under each condition.

Findings

The results show that noise exposure reduced workers’ attention to hazardous areas and the impacts increased with the noise level. Heat exposure also reduced the attention, but it did not increase with the heat stress but with subjects’ thermal discomfort. The attention was impacted more by noise than heat exposure. Noise exposure in the hot climate should be more noteworthy because lower levels of noise would lead to significant changes. These visual characteristics led to poorer identification accuracy.

Originality/value

This study could extend the understanding of the relationship between adverse environmental factors and construction safety. Understanding the intrinsic reasons for workers' failed identification may also provide insights for the industry to enhance construction safety under adverse environments.
The environmental impact of the entire renovation process of urban aged residential buildings in China
Authors: Peng Zhen , Sun Qihan , Li Pei , Sun Fengjiao , Ren Shaoyang , Guan Rui
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to assess carbon emissions in urban aged residential buildings in Qingdao, Shandong Province, constructed prior to 2000, and to evaluate retrofitting and rebuilding strategies for potential carbon reduction.

Design/methodology/approach

Field investigations and literature reviews were conducted to identify key factors influencing carbon emissions, such as shape coefficient, window-to-wall ratio and envelope structure. A combination of generalization and mathematical statistical methods was used to classify buildings based on construction year, form, structural type and energy-saving goals. Cluster analysis was employed to extract six typical building models.

Findings

Results demonstrate that building form complexity positively correlates with carbon emissions per unit area, while longer lifespans reduce emission intensity. Retrofitting exhibits shorter carbon payback periods (1.62–3.92 years) than rebuilding (18.7–49.94 years), indicating superior environmental performance. Pre-1986 buildings are advised for demolition/rebuilding due to limited retrofit benefits. For 1986–1995 buildings, retrofitting is recommended if structurally viable. Post-1996 buildings favor retrofitting over new construction for its shorter payback and lower emissions, enhancing long-term carbon reduction.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the understanding of carbon emissions in urban aged residential buildings by considering various factors and providing specific recommendations for retrofitting and rebuilding strategies tailored to different construction periods. Additionally, it highlights the importance of building form complexity and remaining lifespan in determining carbon emissions, offering insights for sustainable urban development and carbon reduction initiatives.
Movement behavior of oil droplet on porous surfaces under the influence of orifice structure
Authors: Zhang Guotao , Zhang Zan , Wang Zhaochang , Sun Yanhong , Tong Baohong , Tu Deyu
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The lubricating fluid stored in the porous matrix will spontaneously exude to supplement the lubricating film in the damaged area, thus ensuring the long-term self-lubricating function of the porous surface. To reveal the repair mechanism of oil film, it is necessary to understand the flow characteristics of oil in micropores. The purpose of this study guides the design of micropore structure to realize the rapid exudation of oil to the porous surface and the rapid repair of the lubricating film.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, cylindrical orifice, convergent orifice and divergent orifice were studied. The numerical model of lubricating oil exudation in micropores was established. The distribution characteristics of oil pressure, velocity and three-phase contact line in the process of oil exudation were investigated. The effects of different orifice shapes and orifice structure parameters on the pinning and spreading characteristics of oil droplet were analyzed. Then the internal mechanisms of oil droplet formation and spread on the orifice surface were summarized.

Findings

The results show that during the process of oil exudation, the three-phase contact line of the oil drop is pinned once at the edge of the cylindrical and convergent orifice. Compared with the three orifice structures, the inlet pressure of the oil drop is low, and the oil velocity at the pinning point is stable in the divergent orifice. Resulting in favorable oil exudation. It is easier for oil droplet to depin by appropriately reducing the wall wetting angle, increasing the aperture or controlling the wall inclination angle. Ensure the self-healing and long-lasting lubrication film of porous oil-bearing surfaces.

Practical implications

The effect of pore structure on the flow behavior of lubricating fluid has always been concerned. But the mechanism by which different orifice shape affect the pinning behavior of oil droplets is not yet clear, which is crucial for understanding the self-healing mechanism of oil films on porous surfaces. It is meaningful to analyze the mechanism of oil exudation and spreading on the porous surface of oil in the special orifice, to optimize the design of the orifice structure.

Originality/value

Orifice shape has influence on internal flow field parameters. There is no report on the influence of orifice shape on the film formation process of oil seepage and diffusion from pores. The effects of different orifice shapes and orifice structure parameters on the characteristics of oil droplet pinning and diffusion were studied.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-04-2024-0118/
Analyzing the ICT and economic growth relation in OECD countries
Authors: Gökgöz Fazıl , Turan Hasan
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the relationship between information and communication technology (ICT) and economic growth in all organization for economic co-operation and development (OECD) countries.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper employs annual panel data together with fixed-effects (FE), random effects (RE), fully modified ordinary least squares (FMOLS), dynamic ordinary least squares (DOLS) and generalized method of moments (GMM) estimators for production function estimation.

Findings

The results indicate that ICTs, non-ICT (NICT) capital services and employment significantly and positively affect economic growth.

Practical implications

Information is an important driving force behind economic growth and productivity, and communication technologies have made it more accessable. Also, many countries aimed to invest in ICT to improve their economic growth and productivity. However, these investments failed to produce the expected outcome for some years and countries.

Originality/value

To our knowledge, no study examines the ICT and growth relation in all OECD countries for 2000–2018 period. We intend to fill this gap by examining whether or not the expected returns from ICT investment are achieved in all OECD countries between 2000 and 2018.
Speaking with a “forked tongue” – misalignment between user ratings and textual emotions in LLMs
Authors: Yang Yixing , Huang Jianxiong
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The study aims to provide concrete service remediation and enhancement for LLM developers such as getting user forgiveness and breaking through perceived bottlenecks. It also aims to improve the efficiency of app users' usage decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper takes the user reviews of the app stores in 21 countries and 10 languages as the research data, extracts the potential factors by LDA model, exploratively takes the misalignment between user ratings and textual emotions as user forgiveness and perceived bottleneck and uses the Word2vec-SVM model to analyze the sentiment. Finally, attributions are made based on empathy.

Findings

The results show that AI-based LLMs are more likely to cause bias in user ratings and textual content than regular APPs. Functional and economic remedies are effective in awakening empathy and forgiveness, while empathic remedies are effective in reducing perceived bottlenecks. Interestingly, empathetic users are “pickier”. Further social network analysis reveals that problem solving timeliness, software flexibility, model updating and special data (voice and image) analysis capabilities are beneficial in breaking perceived bottlenecks. Besides, heterogeneity analysis show that eastern users are more sensitive to the price factor and are more likely to generate forgiveness through economic remedy, and there is a dual interaction between basic attributes and extra boosts in the East and West.

Originality/value

The “gap” between negative (positive) user reviews and ratings, that is consumer forgiveness and perceived bottlenecks, is identified in unstructured text; the study finds that empathy helps to awaken user forgiveness and understanding, while it is limited to bottleneck breakthroughs; the dataset includes a wide range of countries and regions, findings are tested in a cross-language and cross-cultural perspective, which makes the study more robust, and the heterogeneity of users' cultural backgrounds is also analyzed.
Facilities management as moderator in improving waste separation behaviour among households
Authors: Razali Fitriyah , Daud Dzurllkanian , Choong Weng Wai , Anthony Jiram Wilson Rangga , Sulaiman Noramirah Nabilah , Raja Syamsuddin Raja Nurul Sakinah
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This research focuses on the role of facilities management (FM) elements which are people who represent the household, and process, place and technology as the FM elements. The findings of this research include a list of suggestions to improve SSI implementation based on the FM elements. A waste separation behaviour model was established based on the findings, which was then further validated by experts in related fields.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper explains how the process, place and technology elements of FM moderate and influence waste separation behaviour among households. A conceptual framework is proposed, grounded on the theory of planned behaviour (TPB), and a questionnaire survey was conducted to collect primary data from 900 eligible respondents among the residents of high-rise residential units in Malaysia’s capital city, Kuala Lumpur. SmartPLS software was used to analyse the structural equation model (SEM) of the conceptual framework developed to test the moderator’s effects.

Findings

The findings show that the process, place and technology moderators significantly and positively affected the relationship between perceived behavioural control and waste separation behaviour. Process and technology moderators significantly and positively affect the relationship between moral norms and waste separation behaviour among households. This research focuses on the role of FM elements which are people who represent the household and process, place and technology as the FM elements. The findings of this research include a list of suggestions to improve Separation at Source Initiative (SSI) implementation based on the FM elements. A waste separation behaviour model was established based on the findings, which was then further validated by experts in related fields.

Originality/value

This study implements the case of categorical moderator type and multiple constructs toward the relationships of formative indicators and contributes to knowledge regarding the analysis of moderator variables and structural equation modelling.
Systematic Review of Clinical Prediction Models for the Risk of Emergency Caesarean Births
Authors: Hunt Alexandra , Bonnett Laura , Heron Jon , Lawton Michael , Clayton Gemma , Smith Gordon , Norman Jane , Kenny Louise , Lawlor Deborah , Merriel Abi ,   the Options Study Collaborative Group
Published: September 2024

Background

Globally, caesarean births (CB), including emergency caesareans births (EmCB), are rising. It is estimated that nearly a third of all births will be CB by 2030.

Objectives

Identify and summarise the results from studies developing and validating prognostic multivariable models predicting the risk of EmCBs. Ultimately understanding the accuracy of their development, and whether they are operationalised for use in routine clinical practice.

Search Strategy

Studies were identified using databases: MEDLINE, CINAHL, Cochrane Central and Scopus with a search strategy tailored to models predicting EmCBs.

Selection Criteria

Prospective studies developing and validating clinical prediction models, with two or more covariates, to predict risk of EmCB.

Data Collection and Analysis

Data were extracted onto a proforma using the Prediction model Risk Of Bias ASsessment Tool (PROBAST).

Results

In total, 8083 studies resulted in 56 unique prediction modelling studies and seven validating studies, with a total of 121 different predictors. Frequently occurring predictors included maternal height, maternal age, parity, BMI and gestational age. PROBAST highlighted 33 studies with low overall bias, and these all internally validated their model. Thirteen studies externally validated; only eight of these were graded an overall low risk of bias. Six models offered applications that could be readily used, but only one provided enough time to offer a planned caesarean birth (pCB). These well‐refined models have not been recalibrated since development. Only one model, developed in a relatively low‐risk population, with data collected a decade ago, remains useful at 36 weeks for arranging a pCB.

Conclusion

To improve personalised clinical conversations, there is a pressing need for a model that accurately predicts the timely risk of an EmCB for women across diverse clinical backgrounds.

Trial Registration: PROSPERO registration number: CRD42023384439.
Teachers' relational competence towards students with neurodevelopmental symptoms: A microscopic relational analysis
Authors: Ewe Linda Plantin , Aspelin Jonas
Published: September 2024

Teacher–student relationships (TSRs) are key factors for at‐risk students. However, little is known regarding how TSRs are built through interactions with students with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). This study provides an in‐depth analysis of a teacher's relational competence in relation to a student with NDD symptoms. We used microscopic relational analysis to scrutinise a TSR, focusing on a brief classroom episode selected from a sample of seven video‐recorded lessons set in an elementary school. Our findings demonstrate the critical role of teachers' relational competence in nurturing positive and supportive TSRs. Teachers' relational competence manifests through continuously reading, understanding, and empathising with students. Furthermore, teachers can promote mutual understanding and respect, regulate the degree of closeness and distance, and manage the emotional indicators of ongoing TSR. We propose that such microsocial artistry is an essential part of teachers' competencies when interacting with students with NDDs.
Fasting blood glucose level and risk of all‐cause and cause‐specific mortality in peritoneal dialysis patients
Authors: Lim So Jin , Moon Ju Young , Jeong Kyung Hwan , Ko Gang Jee , Choi Yun Jin , Hwang Hyeon Seok
Published: September 2024

Background

Glycemic control is crucial in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients with diabetes. Although fasting blood glucose (FBG) is the most commonly used index to measure blood glucose levels, there is currently no evidence supporting the association between FBG level and mortality risk in PD patients.

Methods

A total of 3548 diabetic PD patients between 2002 and 2018 were enrolled from the National Health Insurance Service database of Korea. We investigated the association between FBG levels and the risk of all‐cause and cause‐specific mortality.

Results

Patients with FBG levels 80–99 mg/dL exhibited the highest survival rates, whereas those with FBG levels ≥180 mg/dL had the lowest survival rates. Compared with FBG levels 80–99 mg/dL, the adjusted hazard ratios and 95% confidence interval for all‐cause mortality significantly increased as follows: 1.02 (0.87–1.21), 1.41 (1.17–1.70), 1.44 (1.18–2.75), and 2.05 (1.73–2.42) for patients with FBG 100–124 mg/dL, FBG 125–149 mg/dL, FBG 150–179 mg/dL, and FBG ≥180 mg/dL, respectively. The risk for all‐cause mortality also showed an increasing pattern in patients with FBG levels <80 mg/L. The risk of cardiovascular death significantly increased as FBG levels exceeded 125 mg/dL. However, the risk of infection‐related and malignancy‐related deaths did not show a significant increase with increasing FBG levels.

Conclusion

There was an increase in the risk of all‐cause mortality as FBG levels exceeded 125 mg/dL in PD patients with diabetes, and the risk of cardiovascular death showed a strong correlation with FBG levels compared with other causes of death.

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Emergency delivery in case of suspected placenta accreta spectrum: Can it be predicted?
Authors: Hanulikova Petra , Savukyne Egle , Fox Karin A. , Sobisek Lukas , Mhallem Mina , van Beekhuizen Heleen J. , Stefanovic Vedran , Braun Thorsten , Paping Alexander , Bertholdt Charline , Morel Olivier ,   IS‐PAS
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The main goal of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) screening is to enable delivery in an expert center in the presence of an experienced team at an appropriate time. Our study aimed to identify independent risk factors for emergency deliveries within the IS‐PAS 2.0 database cohort and establish a multivariate predictive model.

Material and Methods

A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected PAS cases from the IS‐PAS database between January 2020 and June 2022 by 23 international expert centers was performed. All PAS cases (singleton and multiple pregnancies) managed according to local protocols were included. Individuals with emergent delivery were identified and compared to those with scheduled delivery. A multivariate analysis was conducted to identify the possible risk factors for emergency delivery and was used to establish a predictive model. Maternal outcomes were compared.

Results

Overall, 315 women were included in the study. Of these, 182 participants (89 with emergent and 93 with scheduled delivery) were included in the final analysis after exclusion of those with unsuspected PAS antenatally or who lacked information about the urgency of delivery. Gestational age at delivery was higher in the scheduled group (34.7 vs. 32.9, p < 0.001). Antenatal bleeding (OR 2.9, p = 0.02) and a placenta located over a uterine scar (OR 0.38, p = 0.001) were the independent predictive factors for emergent delivery (AUC 0.68). Ultrasound (US) markers: loss of clear zone (p = 0.001), placental lacunae (p = 0.01), placental bulge (p = 0.02), and presence of bridging vessels (p = 0.02) were more frequently documented in the scheduled group. None of these markers improved the predictive values of the model. Higher PAS grades were identified in the scheduled group (p = 0.01). There were no significant differences in maternal outcomes.

Conclusions

Antenatal bleeding and the placental location away from the uterine scar remained the most significant predictors for emergent delivery among patients with PAS, even when combining more predictive risk factors, including US markers. Based on these results, patients who bleed antenatally may benefit from transfer to an expert center, as we found no differences in maternal outcomes between groups delivered in expert centers. Earlier‐scheduled delivery is not supported due to the low predictive value of our model.
Depression of cortical neuronal activity after a low‐dose fentanyl in preterm infants
Authors: Nilsson Sofie , Tokariev Anton , Vehviläinen Timo , Fellman Vineta , Vanhatalo Sampsa , Norman Elisabeth
Published: September 2024

Aim

Opioids might be harmful to the developing brain and dosing accuracy is important. We aimed at investigating fentanyl effects on cortical activity in infants using computational re‐analysis of bedside recorded EEG signals.

Methods

Fifteen infants born at median 26.4 gestational weeks (range 23.3–34.1), with a birth weight 740 grams (530–1420) and postnatal age 7 days (5–11) received fentanyl 0.5 or 2 μg/kg intravenously before a skin‐breaking procedure or tracheal intubation, respectively. Cortical activity was continuously recorded using amplitude‐integrated electroencephalography (aEEG).  Analyses using three computational EEG features representing cortical synchrony and signal power, were conducted five minutes pre‐ and 10 minutes post the drug administration.

Results

Visual assessment of trends displayed from the EEG metrics did not indicate systematic changes. However, the magnitude of the changes in the parietal and right hemisphere signals after the dose was significantly correlated (ρ < −0.5, p < 0.05) to the EEG amplitude and frequency power level before drug administration. This effect started after 3–4 min.

Conclusion

Fentanyl, even in small doses, may affect cortical activity in the preterm brain. The effect is robustly related to the state of cortical activity prior to drug treatment, which must be taken into account when analysing the effects of sedative drugs.
Designing equity‐centered early learning assessments for today's young children
Authors: Hanno Emily C. , Portilla Ximena A. , Hsueh JoAnn
Published: September 2024

In this article, we adopt culturally relevant perspectives on developmental science that acknowledge and value the diversity of backgrounds and experiences of young children and their families to identify opportunities to advance the measurement of early childhood development. We focus on direct child assessments that can drive more equitable early learning experiences and outcomes by informing the work of educators and program‐ and system‐level decision‐makers. Specifically, we describe potential advancements in the content (what is measured), method (how assessments are conducted), and output (how data are presented) of early learning assessments. Throughout, we highlight opportunities to elevate the experiences of those who use assessment—children, families, educators, and administrators—to develop equity‐centered, engaging assessments that provide comprehensive, fair, and useful insights.
Influence of repeated implant‐abutment manipulation on the prevalence of peri‐implant diseases in complete arch restorations. A retrospective analysis
Authors: Krebs M. , Greilich L. , Weigl P. , Hess P. , Dahmer I. , Begić A.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the effects of repeated abutment manipulation on the prevalence of peri‐implant diseases.

Materials and Methods

A total of 27 edentulous patients (n = 108 implants) immediately restored with double‐crown retained implant‐supported prostheses were identified for this retrospective study. The test included the one‐abutment, one‐time care concept (n = 18 patients, n = 72 implants, OAOT) and the control abutment replacement (n = 9 patients, n = 36 implants, AR). A mixed effects model regression was conducted for the variable diagnosis (healthy, peri‐implant mucositis, and peri‐implantitis) with predictors abutment replacement (presence/absence), number of abutment replacement, category of keratinized mucosa (KM) (2 < KM ≥2 mm), and radiographic bone loss (BL).

Results

After 3–15 years (mean 10.2 ± 2.8 years), the prevalence of peri‐implant mucositis and peri‐implantitis in patients in the AR group was 11.1% and 88.9%, corresponding to 22.2% and 55.6% at the implant level, respectively. In OAOT group, none of the implants showed peri‐implant mucositis, whereas the prevalence for peri‐implantitis at patient and implant level amounted to 5.6% and 5.6%, respectively. The increased number of abutment replacements was significantly associated with the increased probability to diagnose peri‐implant mucositis and peri‐implantitis (OR: 6.13; 95% CI [2.61, 14.39]) (p < 0.001), whereas the presence of keratinized mucosa was not founded as a significant cofounder. The estimated mean BL in AR group was 1.38 mm larger than in OAOT group (p = 0.0190).

Conclusions

The OAOT concept was associated with a lower prevalence of peri‐implant diseases.
Marine spatial planning for socio‐ecological management of animal‐associated microbiomes
Authors: Busch Kathrin , Pardy Gary , King Marty , Lirette Camille , Murillo Francisco Javier , Kenchington Ellen
Published: September 2024

Biodiversity changes and habitat shifts are two phenomena substantially reshaping marine life on our present and future planet. Although those phenomena are well recognized on the macrobial level, they currently do not receive similar attention on the microbial level. Generally, microbiome diversity and function, associated with and governing the health and fitness of their host organisms, are neglected in conservation efforts. This is especially problematic as previous research has highlighted that host‐associated microbes (microbiomes) may display distribution patterns that are not only correlated with host animal biogeographies but also with other factors such as prevailing environmental conditions. Here, marine spatial planning for socio‐ecological management of animal‐associated microbiomes is discussed, using deep‐sea sponge and coral‐associated microbiomes as an example of how to incorporate microbial diversity into conservation planning. We advocate for a holistic and integrative approach to marine spatial planning that incorporates the larger habitat, the host, the microbiome, as well as the socio‐economic and cultural perspective, throughout the whole decision‐making process. A general workflow containing the needed steps to establish microbiome‐integrated marine protected areas is presented, as well as the analytical steps and results underlying the implementation of the world's first microbiome‐considered marine conservation network on the Scotian Shelf off eastern Canada.
Erforschung des therapeutischen Potenzials topischer Probiotika bei dermatologischen Erkrankungen: ein umfassender Überblick über klinische Studien
Authors: Tamer Funda , Kekilli Murat
Published: September 2024

Der Gastrointestinaltrakt kann aufgrund des Gleichgewichts zwischen den enthaltenen pathogenen, opportunistischen und nützlichen Bakterienspezies zur Regulierung systemischer Inflammationen und Hauterkrankungen beitragen. Die äußere Zufuhr nützlichen Bakterien hat neben der bekannten positiven Wirkung bei der Therapie von Erkrankungen des Verdauungstrakts auch verschiedene vorteilhafte Effekte, wie eine beschleunigte Wundheilung, die Unterdrückung von Inflammationen, ein geringeres Infektionsrisiko und einen geringeren Bedarf an Antibiotika. Es wurde berichtet, dass die orale Einnahme von Probiotika bei der Behandlung kutaner Erkrankungen wie Akne, Psoriasis und atopischer Dermatitis wirksam sein kann. Darüber hinaus kann die topische Verabreichung von Probiotika ein positives bakterielles Gleichgewicht schaffen, pathologische Zustände beseitigen und sich somit günstig auf die Therapie dermatologischer Krankheiten auswirken. Das Interesse an der Wirkung des kutanen Mikrobioms und topischer Probiotika bei der Behandlung von Hautkrankheiten hat in letzter Zeit zugenommen. Hierfür wurden 21 klinische Studien und ein Fallbericht in der PubMed‐Datenbank über die Verwendung topischer Probiotika bei dermatologischen Erkrankungen evaluiert.
An experiment on the stability of business environment perceptions in a firm survey
Authors: Islam Asif M. , Rodriguez Meza Jorge
Published: September 2024

Perception‐based survey questions have been widely employed to evaluate the business environment. In the World Bank Enterprise Surveys, such questions involve rating an element of the business environment at the end of each section of the survey instrument. They often elicit responses inconsistent with similar questions based on the firm's experience over a specific timeframe. In this study, an experiment is analysed that randomizes the placement order of the perception‐based questions either at the end of a section or at the beginning of the survey. Significant question‐order effects are uncovered for perceptions of corruption (9%–13% point) and business licencing and permits (7%–8% point) but not the other elements after accounting for a variety of factors; there are no questions‐order effects for experience‐based questions. The study recommends that analyses in these two areas validate perception‐based questions with corresponding experience‐based questions. This adds to a larger literature that emphasizes the importance of data quality and its far‐reaching economic benefits especially in guiding policy.
A Real‐World Data‐Based Analysis of Prognostic Indices as Part of Trial Eligibility Criteria in Diffuse Large B‐Cell Lymphoma Patients
Authors: Jelicic Jelena , Juul‐Jensen Karen , Bukumiric Zoran , Runason Simonsen Mikkel , Roost Clausen Michael , Ludvigsen Al‐Mashhadi Ahmed , Schou Pedersen Robert , Bjørn Poulsen Christian , Ortved Gang Anne , Brown Peter , El‐Galaly Tarec Christoffer , Stauffer Larsen Thomas
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Recent front‐line clinical trials used the International Prognostic Index (IPI) to identify trial‐eligible patients with newly diagnosed diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL). However, many IPI‐like variants with improved accuracy have been developed over the years for rituximab‐treated patients.

Methods

We assessed the impact of International Prognostic Indices on patient enrolment in clinical trials, aiming to exclude low‐risk IPI patients based on POLARIX/EPCORE DLBCL‐2 trial criteria.

Results

We identified 2877 patients in the Danish Lymphoma Registry who would have been eligible for the POLARIX trial if patients with IPI 0–1 scores were included. IPI and NCCN‐IPI assigned 33.3% and 11.9% of patients to the low‐risk group, respectively. Shorter 5‐year overall survival (91.4% vs. 97.5%), higher relapse rate (9.9% vs. 4.4%), and more deaths (16.1% vs. 4.4%) occurred in the low‐risk IPI group compared with low‐risk NCCN‐IPI group. Analyzed models failed to identify true high‐risk patients with poor prognosis. Similar results were found in the confirmatory cohort developed based on EPCORE DLBCL‐2 trial eligibility criteria.

Conclusion

True low‐risk patients are more optimal identified by NCCN‐IPI and should be excluded from front‐line clinical trials due to their excellent prognosis. However, additional high‐risk factors besides clinical prognostic models need to be considered when selecting trial‐eligible patients.
Electrophysiological (EEG) microstates during dream‐like bizarre experiences in a naturalistic scenario using immersive virtual reality
Authors: Denzer Simone , Diezig Sarah , Achermann Peter , Mast Fred W. , Koenig Thomas
Published: September 2024

Monitoring the reality status of conscious experience is essential for a human being to interact successfully with the external world. Despite its importance for everyday functioning, reality monitoring can systematically become erroneous, for example, while dreaming or during hallucinatory experiences. To investigate brain processes associated with reality monitoring occurring online during an experience, i.e., perceptual reality monitoring, we assessed EEG microstates in healthy, young participants. In a within‐subjects design, we compared the experience of reality when being confronted with dream‐like bizarre elements versus realistic elements in an otherwise highly naturalistic real‐world scenario in immersive virtual reality. Dream‐like bizarreness induced changes in the subjective experience of reality and bizarreness, and led to an increase in the contribution of a specific microstate labelled C′. Microstate C′ was related to the suspension of disbelief, i.e. the suppression of bizarre mismatches. Together with the functional interpretation of microstate C′ as reported by previous studies, the findings of this study point to the importance of prefrontal meta‐conscious control processes in perceptual reality monitoring.
Microbial transglutaminase in cashew‐based vegan cheese: an innovative approach in achieving ideal texture and meltability
Authors: PM Rohithkumar , Kumar GV Prasanna , Gaur Abhimanyu , Singh Lochan , Hossain Shamim , Alsulami Tawfiq , Rafiq Syed Mansha , Nayik Gulzar Ahmad
Published: September 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of microbial transglutaminase (MTGase) on the textural properties and meltability of vegan cheese formulated using cashew paste, tapioca starch, coconut oil, and pea protein. The parameters were evaluated at various MTGase concentrations (0.1, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, and 1%) and different incubation times (30, 60, and 90 min). A MTGase concentration of 0.25% resulted in higher meltability Index of 3.02 ± 0.14 and acceptable hardness of 3479.44 ± 14.49 g at 30 min of incubation time. However, prolonged incubation times were found to adversely affect the texture and meltability of the cheese. A similar adverse effect on texture was observed at an MTGase concentration of 0.1% at 60 and 90 min of incubation. The results revealed that lower MTGase concentrations with longer incubation times produced similar effects as higher MTGase concentrations with shorter incubation times. However, at a lower enzyme concentration of 0.1%, meltability was significantly higher (3.24 ± 0.33, P < 0.05) at 60 min of incubation compared to 90 min. The findings suggest that vegan cheese with improved texture, meltability, and sensory properties can be developed by combining cashew, tapioca starch, coconut oil, and pea protein in a ratio of 50:25:20:10, with 1% each of carrageenan and agar, and 60% water, and incubating the mixture with 0.25% MTGase for 30 min at 40 °C.
TERM BREECH DELIVERY
Authors: Bistoletti Peter , Nisell Henry , Palme Charlotte , Lagercrantz Hugo
Published: September 2024

Threehundred and sixty‐six consecutive singleton breech presentations were analyzed for clinical factors associated with fetal complications related to vaginal delivery, and for the impact of different cesarean section rates on the incidence of fetal complications.

The condition at birth of the vaginally delivered (243 cases) infants was found to correlate with maternal prepregnancy weight, and size of the fetal head.

During the period of study the cesarean section rate changed from approximately 20 per cent of term breech presentations at the beginning to almost 50 per cent at its end. This was accompanied by a decrease in the traumatic morbidity. However, at follow‐up only a small minority of those registered were found to be significantly affected. The fetal asphyxia rate was not influenced by the increased cesarean section rate. At follow‐up one of 33 infants born asphyxiated showed late psychomotor development.
ESTROGEN REGIMEN OF WOMEN WITH ENDOMETRIAL CARCINOMA
Authors: Öbrink A. , Bunne G. , Collén J. , Tjernberg B.
Published: September 2024

In order to detect a possible association between exogenous estrogens and endometrial cancer under Swedish circumstances, the previous use of estrogens among 622 cases of endometrial cancer 1974–77 has been compared with that of the average female population, represented by a randomly selected sample of 1 866 contemporaries to the cancer cases.

Among women aged 50–69 years, 6–36 months of use of ‘natural’ and/or to a much lesser extent ‘synthetic’ estrogens was equally common in the two groups. However, starting in 1976, 3–6 years of use became increasingly more common among cancer cases. Taking 1974–77 together, cancer cases had been on such a long‐term regimen more than 5 times as commonly as controls. Additional progestagen treatment was equally rare in the two groups. Tumors of estrogen users were of a significantly lower grade than those of non‐users of the same age.

While it cannot be concluded at this stage that estrogens are cocarcinogenic, the evident possibility motivates a somewhat cautious, restrictive approach to prescription. Progestagens could be added sequentially, though it is not yet verified that they abolish the association between endometrial cancer and estrogens that is now recognized by many investigators.
Fuel stores and time of day account for variation in serum metabolomes of passerine migrants stopping over
Authors: Zimin Sean V. , Zimin Anna , Shochat Eyal , Brotman Yariv , Ovadia Ofer
Published: September 2024

Migratory birds excel in phenotypic flexibility, adapting physiologically as their life histories and environments require. Discerning the metabolic processes underlying migrants' physiology, an emergent property of multiple continuous and dynamic organism–environment interactions, is therefore challenging, particularly under natural conditions. Accordingly, analyses of snapshot‐sampled serum‐circulating metabolites, versatile and readily applicable for migrating birds, have increasingly become the method of choice for such physiologic inference. However, the atemporal nature of single sampling might obscure the links between observed metabolite concentrations and the processes producing them, necessitating an analytical decoupling of focal processes from their broader biochemical background.

In the present study, we examined how variation in combined fat and muscle fuel stores, traits pivotal in migratory context, relates to the serum‐circulating metabolomes of spring‐migrating Eurasian blackcaps stopping‐over. Our analyses accounted for potential spatiotemporal influences in the form of time past night's fasting and random local conditions across three sites within the Negev Desert. We shifted the focus from compound‐level analysis of preselected metabolites towards the level of inclusive metabolome, quantifying serum‐circulating lipophilic and polar molecules via UHPLC–MS/MS untargeted metabolomic technique.

Our results indicated a general relationship between fuel stores and the metabolome, comprising 16 326 lipophilic and 6923 polar compounds, among which 918 and 44 were annotated, respectively. By applying generalized latent‐variable linear modeling (GLLVM) upon concentrations of annotated metabolites, we identified several candidate biomarkers, some novel in migratory context, notably the fuel‐associated increase in serum ceramides likely derived from circulating very low‐density lipoproteins (VLDLs). Relying on estimated metabolite links with fuel and foraging time and on modeled residual covariations among metabolites, we demonstrate fuel–metabolite associations generally consistent with higher fat‐ and lower protein mobilization in birds having greater stores and with decreased fuel utilization as ingested nutrients accumulate over time, thus introducing a novel approach for the physiological study of migrating birds.
Climate, Host Abundance and Spread: Unravelling the Drivers of Forest Pest Distributions in North America
Authors: Gougherty Andrew V. , Walters Ashley D. , Prasad Anantha , Peters Matthew P. , Matthews Stephen N. , DeMerchant Ian
Published: September 2024

Aim

Forest pathogens, insect pests and parasitic plants are among the most important disturbance agents in forested ecosystems. Understanding where pests occur and where they might occur in the future will be important for understanding their impacts on host trees, and planning for future pest outbreaks.

Location

North America.

Taxon

Insect pests, pathogens and parasitic plants of forest trees.

Methods

Here, we develop and implement a framework to predict the contemporary distributions of 26 pest species that accounts for climate, host abundance and, for non‐native species, their spread on the landscape.

Results

We show that pest distributions can be predicted primarily by climatic variables. The abundance of individual host trees had only minor explanatory power, but the summed total of host abundance frequently had greater importance—suggesting forest composition and the relative frequency of hosts and non‐hosts place strong limits on pest distributions. Non‐native pests were strongly impacted by the distance from their original discovery location in North America, which tended to interact with climate variables—suggesting most non‐native pests are not yet at equilibrium with their potential climatic ranges in North America.

Main Conclusions

This work helps to clarify the generalised controls on pest distributions and provide a framework for predicting pest distributions in future climates.
Differences in opioid prescriptions by race among U.S. older adults with a hip fracture transitioning to community care
Authors: Hayes Kaleen N. , Cupp Meghan A. , Joshi Richa , Riester Melissa R. , Beaudoin Francesca L. , Zullo Andrew R.
Published: September 2024

Background

Appropriate pain management can facilitate rehabilitation after a hip fracture as patients transition back to the community setting. Differences in opioid prescribing by race may exist during this critical transition period.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of older adult U.S. Medicare beneficiaries with a hip fracture to examine whether the receipt and dose of opioids differs between Black and White patients as they transitioned back to the community setting. We stratified beneficiaries by whether they received institutional post‐acute care (PAC). Outcomes were (1) receipt of an opioid and (2) opioid doses in the first 90 days in the community in milligram morphine equivalents (MMEs; also presented in mg oxycodone). We estimated relative rates and risk differences of opioid receipt and dose differences using Poisson and linear regression models, respectively, using the parametric g‐formula to standardize for age and sex.

Results

We identified 164,170 older adults with hip fracture (mean age = 82.7 years; 75% female; 72% with PAC; 46% with opioid use after fracture). Overall use of opioids in the community was similar between Black and white beneficiaries. Black beneficiaries had lower average doses in their first 90 days in both total cumulative doses (PAC group: 165 [95% CI −264 to −69] fewer MMEs [−248 mg oxycodone]; no PAC: 167 [95% CI −274 to −62] fewer MMEs [−251 mg oxycodone]) and average MME per days' supply of medication (PAC: −3.0 [−4.6 to −1.4] fewer MMEs per day [−4.5 mg oxycodone]; no PAC: −4.7 [−4.6 to −1.4] fewer MMEs per day [−7.1 mg oxycodone]). In secondary analyses, Asian beneficiaries experienced the greatest differences (e.g., 617–653 fewer cumulative mg oxycodone).

Conclusion

Racial differences exist in pain management for Medicare beneficiaries after a hip fracture. Future work should examine whether these differences result in disparities in short‐ and long‐term health outcomes.
Association between MASLD and increased risk of serious bacterial infections requiring hospital admission: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Mantovani Alessandro , Morandin Riccardo , Fiorio Veronica , Lando Maria Giovanna , Gaviraghi Alberto , Motta Leonardo , Gobbi Federico , Tilg Herbert , Byrne Christopher D. , Targher Giovanni
Published: September 2024

Background

Previous studies have reported an association between metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and the risk of serious bacterial infections. However, the magnitude of the risk and whether this risk varies with the severity of MASLD remains uncertain. We performed a meta‐analysis of observational studies to quantify the association between MASLD and serious bacterial infections requiring hospital admission.

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Embase from database inception to 1 April 2024, using predefined keywords to identify studies examining the risk of serious bacterial infections among individuals with and without MASLD. MASLD was diagnosed using liver biopsy, imaging or International Classification of Diseases codes. Meta‐analysis was performed using random‐effects modelling.

Results

We identified six cross‐sectional and two prospective cohort studies with aggregate data on ~26.6 million individuals. MASLD was significantly associated with higher odds of serious bacterial infections (pooled random‐effects odds ratio 1.93, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.44–2.58; I2 = 93%). Meta‐analysis of prospective cohort studies showed that MAFLD was associated with an increased risk of developing serious bacterial infections (pooled random‐effects hazard ratio 1.80, 95% CI 1.62–2.0; I2 = 89%). This risk further increased across the severity of MASLD, especially the severity of fibrosis (pooled random‐effects hazard ratio 2.42, 95% CI 1.89–2.29; I2 = 92%). These results remained significant after adjusting for age, sex, obesity, diabetes and other potential confounders. Sensitivity analyses did not modify these findings. The funnel plot did not reveal any significant publication bias.

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis shows a significant association between MASLD and an increased risk of serious bacterial infections requiring hospital admission.
Characterization of pinniped vibrissal type and number
Authors: Morgenthal Katharina , Krüger Yvonne , Rogers Tracey , Dehnhardt Guido , Hanke Frederike D.
Published: September 2024

Pinnipeds have vibrissae with which they can explore their environment. Two vibrissal parameters that differ in pinnipeds are shape and number. Regarding shape, most phocids have undulated vibrissae, whereas the vibrissae of a few phocids, all otariids and walruses are smooth. As there is disagreement with respect to which phocid vibrissae lack the undulation, we systematically collected information on vibrissal type. We have documented that all eared seals we examined, walruses, Mediterranean monk seals, bearded, and leopard seals have smooth vibrissae. All other phocids have undulated vibrissae, except for Ross seals and Hawaiian monk seals, which have partially undulated vibrissae. Moreover, we quantified and documented the existence of vibrissae from photos revealing otariids to have 20–43 mystacial vibrissae/pad, no rhinal vibrissae, 1–2 supraorbital vibrissae above each eye, and phocids to have 15–97 mystacial vibrissae/pad, 0–2 rhinal vibrissae/nostril, 1–9 supraorbital vibrissae above each eye, all averages determined from counts made from photos. Walruses have the maximum number of mystacial vibrissae amounting to 198 vibrissae/pad on average, but almost all walruses lack rhinal and supraorbital vibrissae. Vibrissae were found at the upper lip and on the lower jaw in some pinnipeds.