bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does the concept of residential college offset the effects of socioeconomic status on university students' academic performance?
Authors: Gui Ping Ping , Alam Gazi Mahabubul , Hassan Aminuddin Bin
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This comparative study aims to examine the role of Socio-Economic Status (SES) on the academic performance of university students who hold both the status of Residential College (RC) and non-RC. The study further investigates whether the RC is able to offset the effects of SES on students' learning performance to ensure education equity and inclusion in China.

Design/methodology/approach

Data are collected through a questionnaire given to RC and non-RC students enrolled in three public universities in China. A quasi-experimental design is implemented to investigate the potential correlation, if any, between SES, RC and academic performance.

Findings

The results reveal that SES influences academic performance of RC students. Furthermore, the findings strongly suggest that RCs negatively moderate the effect of SES on academic performance.

Research limitations/implications

This study examines RCs within a specific type of university in China, which may limit the generalizability of findings. Additionally, it uses a quasi-experimental method and relies solely on quantitative data, which may also introduce limitations.

Practical implications

Provided in this study is evidence that RCs can be an innovative way to bolster inclusive and equitable quality education for students from diverse backgrounds in China.

Originality/value

This study enriches the existing literature by exploring the relationships between RC, SES and academic performance in China. In addition, it provides significant references to whether RC can fulfill students' education equity and inclusion.
The performance distribution and managerial skill of passive funds: evidence from the Korean market
Authors: Lee Jaeram , Lee Changjun
Published: October 2023

This study investigates the performance distribution of passive funds in the Korean market and compares it with the performance distribution of active funds. The key findings are as follows, first, the performance distribution of passive funds has a thicker tail compared to that of active funds. There are passive funds that achieve outstanding performance, and both the false discovery rate (FDR) analysis and simulation analysis suggest that their outperformance is driven by managerial skill rather than luck. Second, passive fund performance is more persistent compared to active fund performance. Third, investors are less responsive to passive fund performance compared to active fund performance. The fund flow-performance relationship is significantly positive for active funds but not for passive funds. This implies that investors may not recognize the managerial skills of passive funds.
Effect of the drag coefficient on the performance of vertical porous baffles in a sloshing tank
Authors: Bhandiwad Mallikarjun S. , Dodamani B.M. , M.D. Deepak
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The present work involves analytical and experimental investigation of sloshing in a two-dimensional rectangular tank including the effect of porous baffles to control and/or reduce the wave motion in the sloshing tank. The purpose of this study is to assess the analytical solutions of the drag coefficient effect on porous baffles performance to track free surface motion variation in the sloshing tank by comparison with experimental shake table tests under a range of sway excitation.

Design/methodology/approach

The linear second-order ordinary differential equations for liquid sloshing in the rectangular tank were solved using Newmark’s beta method and obtained the analytical solutions for liquid sloshing with dual vertical porous baffles of full submergence depths in a sway-oscillated rectangular tank following the methodology similar to Warnitchai and Pinkaew (1998) and Tait (2008).

Findings

The porous baffles significantly reduce wave elevation in the varying filled levels of the tank compared to the baffle-free tank under the range of excitation frequencies. It is observed that the Reynolds number-dependent drag coefficient for porous baffles in the tank can significantly reduce the sloshing elevations and is found to be effective to achieve higher damping compared to the porosity-dependent drag coefficient for porous baffles in the sloshing tank. The analytical model’s response to free surface elevation variations in the sloshing tank was compared with the experiment’s test results. The analytical results matched with shake table test results with a quantitative difference near the first resonant frequency.

Research limitations/implications

The scope of the study is limited to porous baffles performance under range sway motion and three different filling levels in the tank. The porous baffle performance includes Reynolds number dependent drag coefficient to explore the damping effect in the sloshing tank.

Originality/value

The porous baffles with low-level porosities in the sloshing tank have many engineering applications where the first resonant mode of sloshing in the tank is more important. The porous baffle drag coefficient is an important parameter to study the baffle’s damping effect in sloshing tanks. Hence, obtained analytical solution for liquid sloshing in the rectangular tank with Reynolds number as well as porosity-dependent drag coefficient (model 1) and porosity-dependent drag coefficient porous baffles (model 2) performance is discussed. The model’s test results were validated using a series of shake table sloshing experiments for three fill levels in the tank with sway motion at various excitation frequencies covering the first four sloshing resonant modes.
Monetary policy in a small open economy with non-separable government spending
Authors: Troug Haytem , Sabaj Ernil
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Despite being a flexible tool that can address several macroeconomic issues, Dynamic Stochastic General Equilibrium (DSGE) models have been rarely used to analyse the interaction between monetary and fiscal policy until the post-financial crisis, leaving a gap in the analysis of how government consumption affects the transmission mechanism of monetary policy. This motivates this paper to analyse how government consumption affects the dynamics of a small open economy, once the former is included in a non-separable form to the utility function. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this issue has not been addressed by the literature, and the authors aim to do so in this paper.

Design/methodology/approach

A standard New Keynesian model for a small open economy is used to allow for the presence of non-separable government consumption in the utility function. The model is supported by panel regressions.

Findings

The inclusion of Government consumption dampens the transmission mechanism of monetary policy. The degree of openness dampens the crowding out effect of fiscal policy to monetary policy, as the exchange rate channel empowers it. Empirical estimates for 35 OECD countries support the theoretical findings of the model.

Originality/value

The effect of government consumption on the transmission mechanism of MP has not been addressed in the literature. This paper contributes to the literature by addressing this issue.

Highlights:

• The inclusion of Government consumption dampens the transmission mechanism of monetary policy.

• The degree of openness alleviates the crowding out effect of fiscal policy to monetary policy, as the exchange rate channel empowers it.

• Empirical estimates for 35 OECD countries support the theoretical findings of the model.
To be a cyborg or not: exploring the mechanisms between digital literacy and neural implant acceptance
Authors: Toker Kerem , Afacan Fındıklı Mine , Gözübol Zekiye İrem , Görener Ali̇
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This research aims to reveal the working principles of the decision mechanism that affects the use of neural implant acceptance and to discuss the leading role of digital literacy in this mechanism. In addition, it aimed to examine the theoretical connections of the research model with the conservation of resources (COR) and technology acceptance model (TAM) theories in the discussion.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors collected data from 300 individuals in an organization operating in the health sector and analyzed the data in the Smart Partial Least Squares (PLS) 3.3.3. This way, the authors determined the relationships between the variables, the path coefficients and the significance levels.

Findings

The study has found that strong digital literacy skills are linked to positive emotions and attitudes. Additionally, maintaining a positive mindset can improve one's understanding of ethics. Ethical attitudes and positive emotions can also increase the likelihood of adopting neural implants. Therefore, it is crucial to consider both technical and ethical concerns and emotions when deciding whether to use neural implants.

Originality/value

The research results determined the links between the cognitive, emotional and ethical factors in the cyborgization process of the employees and gave original insights to the managers and employees.

Highlights

Determination of antecedents that affect individuals' acceptance of neural implant use.

Application to 300 individuals working in a health organization.

Path analysis using the least squares method via Smart PLS 3.3.3

Significant path coefficients among digital literacy, positive emotions, attitude, ethical understanding and acceptance of neural implant use.
Entrepreneurial support organization (ESO) narratives and transitional entrepreneurship in Detroit
Authors: Lucas Allison , Mitra Rahul
Published: October 2023

Purpose

To understand how narratives used by entrepreneurial support organizations (ESOs) in Detroit's growing entrepreneurial ecosystem shape transitional entrepreneurs' social reality. We offer theoretical and practical insights to elicit critical support, formulate policies and programs and guide ongoing empirical examination of transitional entrepreneurship.

Design/methodology/approach

We adopt a multi-case study approach, looking at two ESOs in Detroit: one focused on promoting high-growth entrepreneurship and securing financial capital for technology entrepreneurs, the other focused on promoting everyday entrepreneurship (especially among underserved communities) and amassing a more diverse array of resources. We conduct a thematic analysis of organizational texts and interview data with ESO leaders.

Findings

ESO narratives shape Detroit's transitional entrepreneurs by constructing entrepreneurs' social identity, orienting them to the ecosystem and envisioning a collective future in which transitional entrepreneurs are key.

Originality/value

This study offers insight into the definition of transitional entrepreneurs by extending existing conceptions by highlighting the role of institutional actors, like ESOs, and the narratives they adopt in shaping opportunities and challenges for transitional entrepreneurs. Moreover, we push the boundaries of transitional entrepreneurship, including technology start-up entrepreneurs in the definition and call attention to the role of transitional entrepreneurs in post-industrial cities by showcasing their role in community and urban development.
Kuwait's circular prototype mosque design: a history and comprehensive evaluation
Authors: Alajmi Mohammed N. , Al-Haroun Yousef , Alshaheen Rua , Al-Nafisi Mohammed
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This study evaluates the architectural status of circular prototype mosques in Kuwait. The argument is that the once dominant and powerful image of mosques is now merely a repetitive reproduction through the prototype scheme. The study focuses on the circular prototype design, which has been constructed in many of Kuwait's recent residential areas. It evaluates qualitatively the worshipers' experiences of these mosques.

Design/methodology/approach

The research methodology is qualitative. The main question is how well the circular prototype mosques are received by worshipers and local communities. Various research methods were used, including walk-through survey and group interview with worshipers and semi-structured interview with key informants in Public Authority for Housing Welfare and Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs. Purposive sampling was chosen to select for key informants. Time-location sampling was selected for worshipers' group interview.

Findings

Circular prototype presents several weaknesses. The community did not receive the circular design well as it deviates from the traditional and modern rectangular mosque design prevalent in Kuwait. This research highlights the importance of considering traditional design principles, community preferences and functional requirements while designing a mosque. It also emphasizes the need for an extensive evaluation of prototype designs to identify potential weaknesses before proceeding with the final design.

Social implications

It is recommended that future mosque design projects in Kuwait consider traditional design principles; community preferences; and financial, functional and sustainability requirements. In addition, the findings of this study can be used to inform future mosque design projects in Kuwait and to ensure that they are functional, cost-effective and well received by the community.

Originality/value

This research provides an informative and comprehensive analysis of Kuwait's prototype mosque designs from the 1950s to the present day. It focuses on the current circular prototype, critically examining its advantages and disadvantages. This research is the first to evaluate the history and design improvements over the years. As such, this research offers invaluable information to those interested in Kuwait's religious architecture and cultural history.
Stories worth sharing – why do people spread news online?
Authors: Rosu Maria-Magdalena , Cosmoiu Ana-Maria , Ianole-Calin Rodica , Cornoiu Sandra
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The insidious proliferation of online misinformation represents a significant societal problem. With a wealth of research dedicated to the topic, it is still unclear what determines fake news sharing. This paper comparatively examines fake and accurate news sharing in a novel experimental setting that manipulates news about terrorism.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors follow an extended version of the uses-and-gratification framework for news sharing, complemented by variables commonly employed in fake news rebuttal studies.

Findings

Logistic regression and classification trees revealed worry about the topic, media literacy, information-seeking and conservatism as significant predictors of willingness to share news online. No significant association was found for general analytical thinking, journalism skepticism, conspiracy ideation, uses-and-gratification motives or pass-time coping strategies.

Practical implications

The current results broaden and expand the literature examining beliefs in and sharing of misinformation, highlighting the role of media literacy in protecting the public against the spread of fake news.

Originality/value

This is, to the authors’ knowledge, the first study to integrate a breadth of theoretically and empirically driven predictors of fake news sharing within a single experimental framework.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/OIR-12-2022-0693
Environmental catastrophes and organizational ambidexterity: lessons from the Covid-19 experience
Authors: Hasan Md Kamrul , D'Souza Derrick
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Taking an organizational perspective, this paper aims to understand how organizations respond to such strong and concurrent societal effects, and to answer the question, “How should researchers conceptualize the symbiotic relationship between society and business during a catastrophic societal event?”

Design/methodology/approach

The authors highlight through numerous examples, the impact of COVID-19 on society is well-evidenced in the research. They also draw on such evidence of the effects of catastrophic societal events like COVID-19 to support the appropriateness of this conceptualization.

Findings

The authors found that organizations that use both short- and long-term activities concurrently are better able to tackle the concurrent short- and long-term effects of catastrophic events like COVID-19.

Originality/value

The authors use ambidexterity theory, supported by evidence derived from organizational responses to COVID-19, to offer a new and more comprehensive conceptualization that frames the concurrent and interrelated short-term and long-term organizational response to a catastrophic societal event. Further, they highlight the importance of studying such organizational responses in the context of the organization’s referent groups.
Analysis of the relationship among Industry 4.0 technologies, sustainable manufacturing practices and organizational sustainable performance using structural equation modelling
Authors: Harikannan N. , Vinodh S. , Antony Jiju
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to discuss the construction of a structural measurement model utilizing structural equation modelling (SEM) to confirm the link between Industry 4.0 technologies, sustainable manufacturing practices and organizational sustainable performance. Relationship among the paradigm has yet to be fully investigated, necessitating a more conceptual and empirical examination on what impact they have on organizational sustainable performance when used together.

Design/methodology/approach

Industry 4.0 and sustainable production practices aim to progress a company's business competitiveness, forming sustainable development that benefits manufacturing companies. The aim of the study is to analyze the relationship between constructs that lead to operational excellence in firms that use Industry 4.0 technologies and sustainable manufacturing techniques. Experts from diverse automotive industries, who are applying both Industry 4.0 and sustainable manufacturing practices, provided data for the study.

Findings

Statistical estimations (hypotheses) are created to substantiate the measurement model that has been developed. The structural model was analysed, and the findings were discussed. The statistical estimate is either approved or rejected based on the findings. According to the conclusions of this study, strong link exists between Industry 4.0 technologies and sustainable manufacturing practices that affect organizational sustainable performance environmentally, economically and socially.

Practical implications

The research was conducted in the framework of automobile component manufacturing companies in India. The outcomes of the study are practically feasible.

Originality/value

The authors' novel contribution is the construction of a structural model with Industry 4.0 technologies and sustainable manufacturing practices into account.
Magnetotelluric images of the medium enthalpy Bakreswar geothermal province within a granitic gneissic complex, Eastern Indian Peninsula
Authors: Singh Roshan K. , Weckmann Ute , Srivastava Shalivahan
Published: October 2023

The Bakreswar geothermal province represents a medium enthalpy geothermal system with its Bakreswar and Tantloie hot springs. It lies within the Chotanagpur Granite Gneissic Complex in the eastern part of the Indian Peninsula. The province has a high heat flow and a high geothermal gradient of 90°C/km. Magnetotelluric data from 95 sites in a frequency range of 10 kHz–10 Hz were acquired over the Bakreswar geothermal province to obtain an electrical conductivity model and map the geothermal reservoir with its fluid pathways and related geological structures. Subsurface conductivity models obtained from three‐dimensional inversions of the Magnetotelluric data exhibit several prominent anomalies, which are supplemented by gravity results. The conductivity model maps three features which act as a conduit (a) a northwest–southeast trending feature, (b) an east–west trending feature to the south of the northwest–southeast trending feature (which lies 1 km north of the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation fault marked by previous studies) and (c) shallow conducting features close to Bakreswar hot spring. The northwest–southeast trending feature coincides with the boundary of the high‐density intrusive block. This northwest–southeast trending feature provides the pathway for the meteoric water to reach a maximum depth of 2.7 km, where it gets heated by interacting with deep‐seated structures and then it rises towards the surface. The radiogenic process occurring within the granites of Chotanagpur Granite Gneissic Complex provides the heat responsible for heating the meteoric water. The northwest–southeast and east–west trending features are responsible for the transport of meteoric water to deeper depths and then towards the shallow regions of the Earth. The near surface features close to the Bakreswar hot spring are responsible for carrying the water further towards the hot spring. The resistivity of these structures plotted as a function of salinity and temperatures for saline crustal fluids suggests the involvement of meteoric water. Further, applying Archie's law to this resistivity suggests that the conduit path has a porosity greater than 10%. This study successfully maps the anomalous structures which might foster the migration of geothermal fluid in Bakreswar geothermal province.
Hauptpersonalrat der Lehrerinnen: Article 88 GDPR and the Interplay between EU and Member State Employee Data Protection Rules
Authors: Abraha Halefom H.
Published: October 2023

On 30 March 2023, the European Court of Justice ruled for the first time on the interpretation of Article 88 GDPR, which gives Member States the power to provide for more specific rules on employee data processing. In response to a request from the Administrative Court of Wiesbaden (Hauptpersonalrat der Lehrerinnen) concerning the live streaming of video classes, the CJEU found the German law regulating personal data processing in the employment context to be incompatible with the GDPR. This note examines the far‐reaching implications of the ruling, not least given that similar provisions have been enacted at the state and federal levels in Germany as well as in several other Member States. It further identifies guidelines for the appropriate use of Article 88. Notably, national laws making use of Article 88 GDPR must provide normative content that is distinct from, but compatible with, the GDPR.
Clinical application of blood purification in polymyositis/dermatomyositis
Authors: Jia Jieting , Meng Defang , Zhang Xuexiang , Lai Nalin , Zhou Beibei , Wei Hua , Li Xiaocong
Published: October 2023

Introduction

We investigated the clinical efficacy and safety of blood purification technology in patients with polymyositis/dermatomyositis.

Methods

In a study of 22 patients, 10 cases received blood purification treatment (5 cases received plasma exchange, 5 cases received plasma HA280 immunoadsorption), and 12 cases served as the control group. A 3‐month follow‐up was conducted to compare the clinical manifestations and laboratory examination.

Results

Symptoms and signs of patients in treatment group were significantly improved, and the hormone usage was lower than the control group. For patients with normal creatine kinase level and ferritin level below three times the upper limit of normal, there was a positive correlation between their N/L values and MDAAT scores.

Conclusion

The results of this study suggest that blood purification therapy, including plasma HA280 immunoadsorption and plasma exchange, is an effective and safe treatment for patients with polymyositis/dermatomyositis, offering assistance in reducing hormone usage in the long‐term.
The effect of privacy regulation on the data industry: empirical evidence from GDPR
Authors: Aridor Guy , Che Yeon‐Koo , Salz Tobias
Published: October 2023

Utilizing a novel dataset from an online travel intermediary, we study the effects of the EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The opt‐in requirement of GDPR resulted in a 12.5% drop in the intermediary‐observed consumers, but the remaining consumers are trackable for a longer period of time. Our findings imply that privacy‐conscious consumers exert privacy externalities on opt‐in consumers, making them more predictable. Consistent with this finding, the average value of the remaining consumers to advertisers has increased, offsetting some of the losses from consumer opt‐outs.
Mitochondrial phylogenomics of the Australian scribbly gum moth Ogmograptis (Lepidoptera: Bucculatricidae) and an examination of deep‐level relationships within Lepidoptera
Authors: Cameron Stephen L.
Published: October 2023

Larval feeding by the moth genus Ogmograptis (Bucculatricidae: Lepidoptera) creates one of the most iconic features of the Australian bush—the ‘scribbles’ found on smooth‐barked Eucalyptus. The taxonomic history of Ogmograptis has been challenging, with members of the genus being initially described in four different genera representing three different superfamilies. While prior phylogenetic analysis has placed Ogmograptis within the Bucculatricidae, these findings were not strongly supported and there was poor resolution of the early diverging, non‐Apoditrysia superfamilies that Ogmograptis has been assigned to by different authors. As a consequence, the unique larval biology of scribbly moths cannot yet be interpreted in an evolutionary context. Phylogenomic analysis of whole mitochondrial (mt) genome data for Ogmograptis, related non‐Apoditrysia and taxa representing the superfamily‐level diversity of the order strongly supports its placement within the Bucculatricidae, a monophyletic Gracillarioidea and a clade of Gracillarioidea + Yponomeutoidea that was sister to the Apoditrysia. The hypermetamorphic larval development in Ogmograptis can thus be interpreted as an elaboration of the ancestral pattern of the clade Gracillarioidea + Yponomeutoidea that has specialised for phellogen/callus feeding within the bark. The utility of mt genomes for deep‐level phylogenetic study of the Lepidoptera is reviewed against prior multi‐locus and nuclear phylogenomic datasets. Mt phylogenomic analyses are sensitive to analytical methods and the inclusion versus exclusion of high‐variability data partitions for deep‐level relationships, already shown to be uncertain by multi‐locus or nuclear phylogenomic analyses, in particular relationships between apoditrysian and obtectomeran superfamilies. While mt genomes are ideal for examining the relationships of rare, physically small or difficult to collect taxa such as Ogmograptis, due to the low technical hurdles to collecting whole genomes, continued attention to the analytical sensitivities of phylogenies that use this data source is needed to reliably advance our understanding of deep lepidopteran evolution.
Exploring the role of an artificial intelligence chatbot on appendicitis management: an experimental study on ChatGPT
Authors: Gracias Dylan , Siu Adrian , Seth Ishith , Dooreemeah Dilshad , Lee Angus
Published: October 2023

Background

Appendicitis is a common surgical condition that requires urgent medical attention. Recent advancements in artificial intelligence and large language processing, such as ChatGPT, have demonstrated potential in supporting healthcare management and scientific research. This study aims to evaluate the accuracy and comprehensiveness of ChatGPT's knowledge on appendicitis management.

Methods

Six questions related to appendicitis management were created by experienced RACS qualified general surgeons to assess ChatGPT's ability to provide accurate information. The criteria of ChatGPT answers' accuracy were compared with current healthcare guidelines for appendicitis and subjective evaluation by two RACS qualified General Surgeons. Additionally, ChatGPT was then asked to provide five high level evidence references to support its responses.

Results

ChatGPT provided clinically relevant information on appendicitis management, however, was inconsistent in doing so and often provided superficial information. Further to this, ChatGPT encountered difficulties in generating relevant references, with some being either non‐existent or incorrect.

Conclusion

ChatGPT has the potential to provide timely and comprehensible medical information on appendicitis management to laypersons. However, its issue of inaccuracy in information and production of non‐existent or erroneous references presents a challenge for researchers and clinicians who may inadvertently employ such information in their research or healthcare. Therefore, clinicians should exercise caution when using ChatGPT for these purposes.
Surgical tricks of handling a needle and grasping forceps during laparoscopic percutaneous extraperitoneal closure (LPEC) for pediatric inguinal hernia
Authors: Sugimoto Takuya , Yoshimoto Kazuhiko , Tahara Kazunori , Uchida Koshi
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Laparoscopic percutaneous extraperitoneal closure (LPEC) is an alternative to open repair for pediatric inguinal hernias; however, its application for boys remains controversial. In this study, we developed a technique to enhance the safety and feasibility of LPEC.

Material and Surgical Technique

In our technique, forceps are used to pull up the peritoneum ahead on the route, creating a space between the peritoneum and structures, including gonadal vessels and vas deferens. This potentially decreases the risk of perioperative injury of these structures. This technique also allows the needle to pass on the shortest course around the inguinal ring without crossing the vas deferens, possibly lowering the likelihood of injury and preventing excessively high ligation of the vaginalis process.

Discussion

Our technique diversifies the LPEC methods, thereby augmenting the feasibility and safety of the procedure.
The prognosis and risk factors for patients with complex karyotype myelodysplastic syndrome undergoing allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Shimomura Yoshimitsu , Komukai Sho , Kitamura Tetsuhisa , Tachibana Takayoshi , Kurosawa Shuhei , Itonaga Hidehiro , Tsukamoto Shokichi , Doki Noriko , Katayama Yuta , Ito Ayumu , Sawa Masashi , Ueda Yasunori , Nakamae Hirohisa , Nawa Yuichiro , Tanaka Masatsugu , Arai Yasuyuki , Ota Shuichi , Kataoka Keisuke , Nishida Tetsuya , Kanda Junya , Fukuda Takahiro , Atsuta Yoshiko , Ishiyama Ken
Published: October 2023

Allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCT) is the curative treatment for myelodysplastic syndrome with a complex karyotype (CK‐MDS). However, only a few studies have been limited to patients with CK‐MDS undergoing allogeneic HCT. This study aimed to identify the risk factors for patients with CK‐MDS undergoing allogeneic HCT. We included 691 patients with CK‐MDS who received their first allogeneic HCT. The overall survival (OS) was the primary end‐point, estimated using the Kaplan–Meier method. Prognostic factors were identified using a Cox proportional hazards model. The 3‐year OS was 29.8% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 26.3–33.3). In the multivariable analysis, older age (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.44, 95% CI: 1.11–1.88), male sex (HR: 1.38, 95% CI: 1.11–1.71), poor haematopoietic cell transplant comorbidity index (HR: 1.47, 95% CI: 1.20–1.81), red blood cell transfusion requirement (HR: 1.58, 95% CI: 1.13–2.20), platelet transfusion requirement (HR: 1.85, 95% CI: 1.46–2.35), not‐complete remission (HR: 1.55, 95% CI: 1.16–2.06), a high number of karyotype abnormality (HR: 1.63, 95% CI: 1.18–2.25) and monosomal karyotype (HR: 1.49, 95% CI: 1.05–2.12) were significantly associated with OS. Thus, the 3‐year OS of allogeneic HCT was 29.8% in patients with CK‐MDS, and we identified risk factors associated with poor OS.
Frequency and outcomes of obinutuzumab‐induced thrombocytopenia
Authors: Ng Jun Yen , Joshi Maansi , Choi Philip
Published: October 2023

Obinutuzumab is a third‐generation anti‐CD20 monoclonal antibody widely used in the treatment of B‐lymphoproliferative disorders but infrequently associated with severe thrombocytopenia, which can be life‐threatening. The pathophysiology is unclear, but platelet clearance can be extremely rapid (usually within 24 h). In a retrospective case series, we have identified four cases among 149 recipients of obinutuzumab‐containing chemotherapy regimens between 2015 and 2022 treated for haematological malignancies in Canberra, Australia (frequency 2.7%). We illustrate four cases of obinutuzumab‐induced thrombocytopenia with a review of the literature. Research is required to identify the pathophysiology and improve early recognition and management of the condition in the context of multiagent chemotherapy.
Quantitative easing effectiveness: Evidence from Euro private assets
Authors: Kirikos Dimitris G.
Published: October 2023

Proponents of quantitative easing (QE) unconventional policy have rather overstated some evidence that structural time series models do not predict long‐term asset prices and yields as well as naive random walk forecasts, implying that predictions of price reversals cannot be profitable and, therefore, that QE effects are not transitory. Indeed, in this work we present evidence that naive models do not outperform structural vector autoregressive and Markov switching models in out‐of‐sample forecasting of corporate bond yields purchased by the European Central Bank, when the information set includes base money growth. It turns out that structural time series models provide additional information regarding the likelihood of price reversals, thus motivating investors to offset the effects of QE interventions if they perceive unconventional monetary policy regimes as temporary.
The best of both worlds: Blending cutting‐edge research with clinical processes for a productive exome clinic
Authors: Sullivan Jennifer A. , Spillmann Rebecca C. , Schoch Kelly , Walley Nicole , Alkelai Anna , Stong Nicholas , Shea Patrick R. , Petrovski Slavè , Jobanputra Vaidehi , McConkie‐Rosell Allyn , Shashi Vandana
Published: October 2023

Genomic medicine has been transformed by next‐generation sequencing (NGS), inclusive of exome sequencing (ES) and genome sequencing (GS). Currently, ES is offered widely in clinical settings, with a less prevalent alternative model consisting of hybrid programs that incorporate research ES along with clinical patient workflows. We were among the earliest to implement a hybrid ES clinic, have provided diagnoses to 45% of probands, and have identified several novel candidate genes. Our program is enabled by a cost‐effective investment by the health system and is unique in encompassing all the processes that have been variably included in other hybrid/clinical programs. These include careful patient selection, utilization of a phenotype‐agnostic bioinformatics pipeline followed by manual curation of variants and phenotype integration by clinicians, close collaborations between the clinicians and the bioinformatician, pursuit of interesting variants, communication of results to patients in categories that are predicated upon the certainty of a diagnosis, and tracking changes in results over time and the underlying mechanisms for such changes. Due to its effectiveness, scalability to GS and its resource efficiency, specific elements of our paradigm can be incorporated into existing clinical settings, or the entire hybrid model can be implemented within health systems that have genomic medicine programs, to provide NGS in a scientifically rigorous, yet pragmatic setting.
Effect of argon plasma abutment activation on soft tissue healing: RCT with histological assessment
Authors: Canullo Luigi , Donato Antonacci , Savadori Paolo , Radovanovic Sandro , Iacono Roberta , Rakic Mia
Published: October 2023

Objective

To assess the peri‐implant soft tissue profiles between argon plasma treatment (PT) and non‐treated (NPT) healing abutments by comparing clinical and histological parameters 2 months following abutment placement.

Materials and Methods

Thirty participants were randomly assigned to argon‐plasma treatment abutments group (PT) or non‐treated abutments (NPT) group. Two months after healing abutment placement, soft peri‐implant tissues and abutment were harvested, and histological and clinical parameters including plaque index, bleeding on probing, and keratinized mucosa diameter (KM) were assessed. Specialized stainings (hematoxylin–eosin and picrocirious red) coupled with immunohistochemistry (vimentin, collagen, and CK10) were performed to assess soft tissue inflammation and healing, and the collagen content keratinization. In addition to standard statistical methods, machine learning algorithms were applied for advanced soft tissue profiling between the test and control groups.

Results

PT group showed lower plaque accumulation and inflammation grade (6.71% vs. 13.25%, respectively; p‐value 0.02), and more advanced connective tissue healing and integration compared to NPT (31.77% vs. 23.3%, respectively; p = 0.009). In the control group, more expressed keratinization was found compared to the PT group, showing significantly higher CK10 (>47.5%). No differences in KM were found between the groups.

Significance

PT seems to be a promising protocol for guided peri‐implant soft tissue morphogenesis reducing plaque accumulation and inflammation, and stimulating collagen and soft tissue but without effects on epithelial tissues and keratinization.
Accuracy of autonomous robotic surgery for dental implant placement in fully edentulous patients: A retrospective case series study
Authors: Li Ping , Chen Jiahao , Li An , Luo Ke , Xu Shulan , Yang Shuo
Published: October 2023

Objectives

This study evaluated the accuracy of dental implant placement using the robotic computer‐assisted implant surgery (r‐CAIS) technology in fully edentulous patients.

Materials and Methods

Fully edentulous and terminal dentition patients were enrolled for r‐CAIS technology. Based on the cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) examination, a customized positioning marker and a preoperative surgical plan were created before surgery. During the implant surgery, the implant osteotomy and placement were automatically performed using an autonomous robotic surgery system under the surgeon's supervision. A postoperative CBCT scan was used to determine the discrepancies between the planned and placed implants.

Results

Ten patients with 59 implants underwent autonomous robotic surgery. No adverse surgical events occurred. The deviations of global coronal, global apical, and angular were 0.67 ± 0.37 mm (95% CI: 0.58–0.77 mm), 0.69 ± 0.37 mm (95% CI: 0.59–0.78 mm), and 1.27° ± 0.59° (95% CI: 1.42°–1.11°), respectively.

Conclusions

The autonomous r‐CAIS technology proved an accurate surgical approach for implant placement in fully edentulous patients due to the control of the angular deviation. Autonomous robotic surgery seems promising as an accurate technology for treating fully edentulous patients. However, further trials are required to provide more hard clinical evidence.
Prioritizing conservation efforts based on future habitat availability and accessibility under climate change
Authors: Liang Jie , Wang Wanting , Cai Qing , Li Xin , Zhu Ziqian , Zhai Yeqing , Li Xiaodong , Gao Xiang , Yi Yuru
Published: October 2023

The potential for species to shift their ranges to avoid extinction is contingent on the future availability and accessibility of habitats with analogous climates. To develop conservation strategies, many previous researchers used a single method that considered individual factors; a few combined 2 factors. Primarily, these studies focused on identifying climate refugia or climatically connected and spatially fixed areas, ignoring the range shifting process of animals. We quantified future habitat availability (based on species occurrence, climate data, land cover, and elevation) and accessibility (based on climate velocity) under climate change (4 scenarios) of migratory birds across the Yangtze River basin (YRB). Then, we assessed species’ range‐shift potential and identified conservation priority areas for migratory birds in the 2050s with a network analysis. Our results suggested that medium (i.e., 5–10 km/year) and high (i.e., ≥ 10 km/year) climate velocity would threaten 18.65% and 8.37% of stable habitat, respectively. Even with low (i.e., 0–5 km/year) climate velocity, 50.15% of climate‐velocity‐identified destinations were less available than their source habitats. Based on our integration of habitat availability and accessibility, we identified a few areas of critical importance for conservation, mainly in Sichuan and the middle to lower reaches of the YRB. Overall, we identified the differences between habitat availability and accessibility in capturing biological responses to climate change. More importantly, we accounted for the dynamic process of species’ range shifts, which must be considered to identify conservation priority areas. Our method informs forecasting of climate‐driven distribution shifts and conservation priorities.
Human neural stem cells
Authors: Wang Yu‐Kai , Yu Juan , Zhang Ting‐Ting , Ma Ai‐Jin , Hao Jie , Chen Yue‐Jun , Liu Chang‐Mei , Liu Yan , Wang Chang‐Lin , Zhai Pei‐Jun , Xiang Andy Peng , Li Tian‐Qing , Tang Tie‐Shan , Chen Hong , Bao Xin‐Jie , Wang Yan‐Lin , He Wen‐Yan , Fan Jing , Teng Zhao‐Qian , Wang Liu , Zhou Jia‐Xi , Fu Bo‐Qiang , Fu Yu Vincent , Feng Lin , Cao Jia‐Ni , Liang Ling‐Min , Wang Lei , Zhou Qi , Zhang Yu , Hu Bao‐Yang , Zhao Tong‐Biao
Published: October 2023

‘Human neural stem cells’ jointly drafted and agreed upon by experts from the Chinese Society for Stem Cell Research, is the first guideline for human neural stem cells (hNSCs) in China. This standard specifies the technical requirements, test methods, test regulations, instructions for use, labelling requirements, packaging requirements, storage requirements, transportation requirements and waste disposal requirements for hNSCs, which is applicable to the quality control for hNSCs. It was originally released by the China Society for Cell Biology on 30 August 2022. We hope that publication of the guideline will facilitate institutional establishment, acceptance and execution of proper protocols, and accelerate the international standardization of hNSCs for clinical development and therapeutic applications.
Precision medicine in regulatory decision making: Biomarkers used for patient selection in European Public Assessment Reports from 2018 to 2020
Authors: Bakker Elisabeth , Starokozhko Viktoriia , Kraaijvanger Jet W. M. , Heerspink Hiddo J. L. , Mol Peter G. M.
Published: October 2023

Biomarkers can guide precision medicine in clinical trials and practice. They can increase clinical trials' efficiency through selection of study populations more likely to benefit from treatment, thus increasing statistical power and reducing sample size requirements or study duration. We performed a narrative synthesis to explore biomarker utilization for patient selection to guide precision medicine trials in marketing authorization dossiers of centrally approved medicines in Europe between 2018 and 2020 and analyzed in‐depth those that eventually included biomarkers in the medicines' indications. From 119 eligible products, 26 included a biomarker in the indication, of which most were oncology products (n = 15). Included biomarkers were often known from literature or from previously approved products in the European Union or the United States. Additionally, 52 dossiers mentioned one or more biomarkers for patient selection in their clinical efficacy and safety information. Although these were not always included in the medicines' indication, they were often implicitly embedded in condition definitions adopted from clinical guidelines or practice. In 15 out of the 26 medicines with a biomarker‐guided indication, only biomarker‐positive populations were included in the main clinical studies supporting the marketing authorization. These studies were mostly randomized controlled trials or single‐arm trials; only two products were studied for multiple indications in an innovative basket trial. Definitions of biomarkers could be subject of debate and needed adaptation after post hoc analyses requested by the assessment committee in four cases, stressing the importance of thorough justification of these definitions to include the right population for an optimal benefit–risk balance, enabling precise medicine.
Family‐based consent and motivation for familial organ donation in Bangladesh: An empirical exploration
Authors: Siraj Md. Sanwar
Published: October 2023

The government of Bangladesh approved the human organ transplantation law in 1999 and updated it in 2018. This legislation approved both living‐related donor and posthumous organ transplantation. The law only allows family members to legally donate organs to their relatives. The main focus of this study was to explore how Bangladeshis make donation decisions on familial organs for transplantation. My ethnographic fieldwork with forty participants (physicians and nurses, a healthcare administrator, organ donors, recipients, and their relatives) disclosed that the organ donation decision was family‐based. An assessment of the relationship between religion, culture, and biomedicine leads to the conclusion that deciding on donating organs to relatives is primarily family‐based and is perceived to be steeped in Islamic ethical principles and religious cultural tradition. The family‐based consent and motivation for donor‐recipient pair organ transplantation strengthen an altruistic environment for the family and act as the moral and legal authority that ensures ethical healthcare outcomes for Bangladeshis.
Technologies for whole‐cell modeling: Genome‐wide reconstruction of a cell in silico
Authors: Kaizu Kazunari , Takahashi Koichi
Published: October 2023

With advances in high‐throughput, large‐scale in vivo measurement and genome modification techniques at the single‐nucleotide level, there is an increasing demand for the development of new technologies for the flexible design and control of cellular systems. Computer‐aided design is a powerful tool to design new cells. Whole‐cell modeling aims to integrate various cellular subsystems, determine their interactions and cooperative mechanisms, and predict comprehensive cellular behaviors by computational simulations on a genome‐wide scale. It has been applied to prokaryotes, yeasts, and higher eukaryotic cells, and utilized in a wide range of applications, including production of valuable substances, drug discovery, and controlled differentiation. Whole‐cell modeling, consisting of several thousand elements with diverse scales and properties, requires innovative model construction, simulation, and analysis techniques. Furthermore, whole‐cell modeling has been extended to multiple scales, including high‐resolution modeling at the single‐nucleotide and single‐amino acid levels and multicellular modeling of tissues and organs. This review presents an overview of the current state of whole‐cell modeling, discusses the novel computational and experimental technologies driving it, and introduces further developments toward multihierarchical modeling on a whole‐genome scale.