bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between increased systemic immune-inflammation index and postoperative delirium in older intertrochanteric fracture patients
Authors: Yan Xiaoxiao , Huang Jin , Chen Xiachan , Lin Mian
Published: April 2024

Background and purpose

The systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), a novel inflammation index derived from the counts of circulating platelets, neutrophils and lymphocytes, has been studied in the treatment of acute cancer and ischemic stroke (AIS). However, the clinical value of the SII in postoperative delirium patients has not been further investigated. The purpose of our research was to study the incidence and preoperative risk factors for postoperative delirium (POD) and verify whether the SII could serve as a potential marker for POD in older intertrochanteric fracture patients. Finally, we created a novel nomogram for predicting POD in older patients with intertrochanteric fractures.

Methods

We enrolled elderly patients with intertrochanteric fractures who underwent proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA) between February 2021 and April 2023. Univariate and multivariate logistic analyses were subsequently performed to confirm the risk factors and construct a nomogram model.Calibration curve and clinical decision curve analysis (DCA) were used to assess the model’s fitting performance. The performance of the nomogram was evaluated for discrimination, calibration, and clinical utility.

Results

A total of 293 patients were eligible for inclusion in the study, 25.6% (75/293) of whom had POD. The POD patients had higher SII values than the non-POD patients. The SII was strongly correlated with POD in older intertrochanteric fracture patients, and the optimal cutoff value was 752.6 × 109. Multivariate analysis revealed that age, diabetes, total albumin, SII > 752.6 × 109 and a CRP > 20.25 mg/L were independent risk factors for POD patients. By incorporating these 5 factors, the model achieved a concordance index of 0.745 (95% CI, 0.683–0.808) and had a well-fitted calibration curve and good clinical application value.

Conclusion

The SII is a simple and valuable biomarker for POD, and the new nomogram model can be used to accurately predict the occurrence of POD. They can be utilized in clinical practice to identify those at high risk of POD in older intertrochanteric fracture patients.
Airway and anesthesia management in tracheoesophageal fistula closure implantation: a single-centre retrospective study
Authors: Dechong Zhu , He Huang , Jigang Zhang , Cunming Liu
Published: April 2024

Objective

To review and analyze the airway and anesthesia management methods for patients who underwent endoscopic closure of tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) and to summarize the experience of intraoperative airway management.

Method

We searched the anesthesia information system of the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University for anesthesia cases of TEF from July 2020 to July 2023 and obtained a total of 34 anesthesia records for endoscopic TEF occlusion. The intraoperative airway management methods and vital signs were recorded, and the patients’ disease course and follow-up records were analyzed and summarized.

Results

The airway management strategies used for TEF occlusion patients included nasal catheter oxygen (NCO, n = 5), high-flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy (HFNC, n = 4) and tracheal intubation (TI, n = 25). The patients who underwent tracheal intubation with an inner diameter of 5.5 mm had stable hemodynamics and oxygenation status during surgery, while intravenous anesthesia without intubation could not effectively inhibit the stress response caused by occluder implantation, which could easily cause hemodynamic fluctuations, hypoxemia, and carbon dioxide accumulation. Compared with those in the TI group, the NCO group and the HFNC group had significantly longer surgical times, and the satisfaction score of the endoscopists was significantly lower. In addition, two patients in the NCO group experienced postoperative hypoxemia.

Conclusion

During the anesthesia process for TEF occlusions, a tracheal catheter with an inner diameter of 5.5 mm can provide a safe and effective airway management method.
Efficacy of supervised immersive virtual reality-based training for the treatment of chronic fatigue in post-COVID syndrome: study protocol for a double-blind randomized controlled trial (IFATICO Trial)
Authors: Tesarz Jonas , Lange Hannah , Kirchner Marietta , Görlach Axel , Eich Wolfgang , Friederich Hans-Christoph
Published: April 2024

Background

The treatment of persistent fatigue after COVID-19 infection is complex. On the one hand, it involves maintaining a sufficient level of physical and mental activity to counteract possible degenerative processes of the body and nervous system. On the other hand, physical and mental activities can also lead to worsening of symptoms. Therefore, the challenge in treating Post-COVID fatigue is to stimulate the body and central nervous system in a way that stimulates growth and improvement, but does not overtax individual physical and mental limits. Special training programs try to take these characteristics into account, but often reach their limits. A promising approach is offered by new fitness technologies based on immersive virtual realities that stimulate both body and brain while minimizing physical and psychological stress. The aim of this study is to investigate the efficacy of supervised immersive Virtual Reality (VR)-based activity training compared to conventional activity training for patients with Post-COVID-associated fatigue.

Methods

In a single centre, individually randomised, prospective, double-blind two-arm exploratory superiority trial with parallel group design, N = 100 patients with persistent fatigue after COVID-19 infection will be recruited. The intervention includes a supervised immersive neuromuscular training (12 sessions of 30 min over 6 weeks) based on a novel VR-exercise device. We will systematically compare the effects of this intervention on Post-COVID-associated fatigue with a supervised conventional activation program of comparable scope without an immersive environment. The primary outcome is the difference between groups in absolute change in the mean fatigue symptom severity measured on the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) from baseline to posttreatment assessment. Posttreatment assessment in both groups will be conducted by blinded outcome assessors. At three and six months afterwards, patients are sent self-report questionnaires for follow up. The main analysis will be based on the intention-to-treat principle.

Discussion

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first exploratory study on a supervised immersive neuromuscular training for the treatment of persistent fatigue after COVID-19 infection.

Trial registration

German register for clinical studies (ID: DRKS00032059)

Prospectively registered on June 16th 2023.

URL of trial registration:
Effectiveness and safety of mycophenolate mofetil and rituximab combination therapy for immune idiopathic myopathies
Authors: Campochiaro Corrado , Farina Nicola , De Luca Giacomo , Batani Veronica , Trignani Giorgia , Vignale Davide , Palmisano Anna , Matucci-Cerinic Marco , Dagna Lorenzo
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM) represent a rare and heterogenous group diseases, and their treatment is not fully defined yet. According to previous small case series, the combination of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and rituximab (RTX) may be effective in controlling difficult-to-treat patients. Our aim was to further explore the efficacy and safety of this combined approach in patients with IIM.

Methods

Patients with IIM treated with the RTX/MMF combination in our Center were retrospectively identified. After the start of combination therapy, the efficacy was evaluated at 12 months (T12) according the 2016 ACR/EULAR response criteria for IIM. Cardiac imaging and pulmonary function tests were used to monitor disease activity in patients with myocarditis and interstitial lung disease, respectively. Adverse events were recorded over the follow-up period.

Results

Among the 20 patients (median age 61 years; 70% female) included in the study, anti-synthetase syndrome was the most prevalent IIM subgroup (60%). At treatment start, muscle, heart, and lung were the most commonly actively affected organs. After 12 months, a moderate or major response was observed in all patients, and creatine kinase was significantly decreased (p-value = 0.012). Cardiac imaging and enzymes monitoring showed a reduction of heart inflammation, while pulmonary function tests improved in patients with lung involvement. No severe side effects were observed.

Conclusion

Our data show that combination of RTX and MMF is effective and safe in patients with severe and refractory IIM. Therefore, this combined treatment might represent a feasible approach for difficult-to-treat IIM cases.
Bioethanol production from sugarcane molasses by co-fermentation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae isolate TA2 and Wickerhamomyces anomalus isolate HCJ2F-19
Authors: Hawaz Estifanos , Tafesse Mesfin , Tesfaye Anteneh , Kiros Solomon , Beyene Dereje , Kebede Gessesse , Boekhout Teun , Groenwald Marizeth , Theelen Bart , Degefe Ayantu , Degu Sisay , Admasu Alene , Hunde Biru , Muleta Diriba
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Co-culturing is a widely used method to improve bioethanol production from biomass enriched in fermentable sugars. This study aims to produce bioethanol from sugarcane molasses by simultaneous co-fermentation of S. cerevisiae isolate TA2 and W. anomalus isolate HCJ2F-19.

Methods

Response surface methodology (RSM) based on the central composite design (CCD) was employed to optimize fermentation conditions, including mixing rate (110–150 rpm), temperature (25–35 °C), molasses concentration (25–35 obrix), and incubation time (36–72 h). The ethanol concentration was analyzed using HPLC equipped with a UV detector.

Results

The monocultureS. cerevisiae isolate TA2 produced 17.2 g.L−1 of ethanol, 0.33 g.g−1 of ethanol yield, and 0.36 g.L−1.h−1 of productivity compared to W. anomalus isolate HCJ2F that produced 14.5 g.L−1, 0.30 g.g−1 and 0.28 g.L−1.h−1 ethanol, ethanol yield, and productivity under laboratory conditions, respectively. In comparison to single cultures of S. cerevisiae TA2 and W. anomalus HCJ2F, the co-fermentation using both isolates showed an increased ethanol yield of 29% and 53% compared to the single species fermentations, respectively. The results showed that the growth of W. anomalus HCJ2F-19 and S. cerevisiae TA2 was not influenced by each other during the co-fermentation process. The one variable at a time optimization (OVAT) analysis resulted in an ethanol concentration of 26.5 g.L−1 with a specific yield and productivity of 0.46 g.g−1, 0.55 g.L−1.h−1, respectively, at pH 5.5, 25 obrix, 48 h, 150 rpm, 30 °C, 60:40 inoculum ratio, and 10% overall inoculum size. The maximum ethanol concentration of 35.5 g.L−1 was obtained by co-fermentation using the RSM-CCD tool at 30 obrix, 30 °C, 54 h, and 130 rpm.

Conclusion

The results suggested that the co-fermentation of S. cerevisiae isolate TA2 and W. anomalus isolate HCJ2F improves bioethanol production from sugar cane molasses under optimum fermentation conditions.
Training in the implementation of sex and gender research policies: an evaluation of publicly available online courses
Authors: Gompers Annika , Olivier Madeline T. , Maney Donna L.
Published: April 2024

Background

Recently implemented research policies requiring the inclusion of females and males have created an urgent need for effective training in how to account for sex, and in some cases gender, in biomedical studies.

Methods

Here, we evaluated three sets of publicly available online training materials on this topic: (1) Integrating Sex & Gender in Health Research from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR); (2) Sex as a Biological Variable: A Primer from the United States National Institutes of Health (NIH); and (3) The Sex and Gender Dimension in Biomedical Research, developed as part of “Leading Innovative measures to reach gender Balance in Research Activities” (LIBRA) from the European Commission. We reviewed each course with respect to their coverage of (1) What is required by the policy; (2) Rationale for the policy; (3) Handling of the concepts “sex” and “gender;” (4) Research design and analysis; and (5) Interpreting and reporting data.

Results

All three courses discussed the importance of including males and females to better generalize results, discover potential sex differences, and tailor treatments to men and women. The entangled nature of sex and gender, operationalization of sex, and potential downsides of focusing on sex more than other sources of variation were minimally discussed. Notably, all three courses explicitly endorsed invalid analytical approaches that produce bias toward false positive discoveries of difference.

Conclusions

Our analysis suggests a need for revised or new training materials that incorporate four major topics: precise operationalization of sex, potential risks of over-emphasis on sex as a category, recognition of gender and sex as complex and entangled, and rigorous study design and data analysis.
Case study of UAS ignition of prescribed fire in a mixedwood on the William B. Bankhead National Forest, Alabama
Authors: Craycroft John , Schweitzer Callie
Published: April 2024

Background

For at least four decades, practitioners have recognized advantages of aerial versus ground ignition for maximizing the effectiveness of prescribed fires. For example, larger areas can be ignited in less time, or ignition energy may be variously targeted over an area in accordance with the uneven distribution of fuels. The maturation of wireless communication, geopositioning systems, and unmanned aerial systems (UAS) has enhanced those advantages, and UAS approaches also provide further advantages relative to helicopter ignitions, such as reduced risk to human safety, lower operating costs, and higher operational flexibility. In a long running study at the Bankhead National Forest in northcentral Alabama, prescribed fire has been used for nearly 20 years. Most of the burns have been hand-ignited via drip torches, while some have been aerially ignited via helicopter. In March 2022, for the first time, a UAS was used to ignite prescribed fires across a landscape that included a long-term research stand. This field note relates comparisons of both fire behavior and fuel consumption metrics for the UAS-ignited burn versus previous burns on the same stand, and versus burns of other research stands in the same year.

Results

The UAS-ignited prescribed fire experienced burn effects similar to those from ground-ignited prescribed fires on the same stand in previous years, as well as those from ground-ignited prescribed fires on other stands in the same year.

Conclusion

This post hoc analysis suggests that UAS ignition approaches may be sufficient for achieving prescribed burn goals, thereby enabling practitioners to realize the advantages offered by that ignition mode.
Early prediction of chronic kidney disease based on ensemble of deep learning models and optimizers
Authors: Saif Dina , Sarhan Amany M. , Elshennawy Nada M.
Published: April 2024

Recent studies have proven that data analytics may assist in predicting events before they occur, which may impact the outcome of current situations. In the medical sector, it has been utilized for predicting the likelihood of getting a health condition such as chronic kidney disease (CKD). This paper aims at developing a CKD prediction framework, which forecasts CKD occurrence over a specific time using deep learning and deep ensemble learning approaches. While a great deal of research focuses on disease detection, few studies contribute to disease prediction before it may occur. However, the performance of previous work was not competitive. This paper tackles the under-explored area of early CKD prediction through a high-performing deep learning and ensemble framework. We bridge the gap between existing detection methods and preventive interventions by: developing and comparing deep learning models like CNN, LSTM, and LSTM-BLSTM for 6–12 month CKD prediction; addressing data imbalance, feature selection, and optimizer optimization; and building an ensemble model combining the best individual models (CNN-Adamax, LSTM-Adam, and LSTM-BLSTM-Adamax). Our framework achieves significantly higher accuracy (98% and 97% for 6 and 12 months) than previous work, paving the way for earlier diagnosis and improved patient outcomes.
Role and application of three-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography in the assessment of left and right ventricular volumes and ejection fraction: a UK nationwide survey
Authors: Corbett Liam , O’Driscoll Patrick , Paton Maria , Oxborough David , Surkova Elena
Published: April 2024

Three-dimensional echocardiography (3DE) imaging has permitted advancements in the quantification of left ventricular (LV) and right ventricular (RV) volumes and ejection fraction. We evaluated the availability of 3DE equipment / analysis software, the integration of 3DE assessment of the LV and RV in routine clinical practice, current training provisions in 3DE, and aimed to ascertain barriers preventing the routine use of 3DE for volumetric analysis. Through the British Society of Echocardiography (BSE) regional representatives’ network, echocardiographers were invited to participate in an open online survey. A total of 181 participants from echocardiography departments in the United Kingdom (UK), the majority from tertiary centres (61%), completed the 28-question survey. For 3DE quantification, 3DE-LV was adopted more frequently than 3DE-RV (48% vs 11%, respectively). Imaging feasibility was a recognised factor in 3DE RV and LV adoption. Many respondents had access to 3D probes (93%). The largest observed barriers to 3DE routine use were training deficiencies, with 83% reporting they would benefit from additional training opportunities and the duration of time permitted for the scan, with 68% of responders reporting allowances of less than the BSE standard of 45–60 min per patient (8% < 30-min). Furthermore, of those respondents who had undertaken professional accreditation, competence in 3DE was not formally assessed in 89%. This UK survey also reported good accessibility to magnetic resonance imaging (72%), which was related to overall 3DE adoption. In summary, although 3DE is now readily available, it remains underutilised. Further training opportunities, integrated formal assessment, improved adoption of BSE minimum recommended scanning times, alongside industry and societal support, may increase 3DE utilisation in routine practice.
Validating Risk Prediction Models for Multiple Primaries and Competing Cancer Outcomes in Families With Li-Fraumeni Syndrome Using Clinically Ascertained Data
Authors: Nguyen Nam H. , Dodd-Eaton Elissa B. , Corredor Jessica L. , Woodman-Ross Jacynda , Green Sierra , Gutierrez Angelica M. , Arun Banu K. , Wang Wenyi
Published: April 2024

PURPOSE

There exists a barrier between developing and disseminating risk prediction models in clinical settings. We hypothesize that this barrier may be lifted by demonstrating the utility of these models using incomplete data that are collected in real clinical sessions, as compared with the commonly used research cohorts that are meticulously collected.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Genetic counselors (GCs) collect family history when patients (ie, probands) come to MD Anderson Cancer Center for risk assessment of Li-Fraumeni syndrome, a genetic disorder characterized by deleterious germline mutations in the TP53 gene. Our clinical counseling-based (CCB) cohort consists of 3,297 individuals across 124 families (522 cases of single primary cancer and 125 cases of multiple primary cancers). We applied our software suite LFSPRO to make risk predictions and assessed performance in discrimination using AUC and in calibration using observed/expected (O/E) ratio.

RESULTS

For prediction of deleterious TP53 mutations, we achieved an AUC of 0.78 (95% CI, 0.71 to 0.85) and an O/E ratio of 1.66 (95% CI, 1.53 to 1.80). Using the LFSPRO.MPC model to predict the onset of the second cancer, we obtained an AUC of 0.70 (95% CI, 0.58 to 0.82). Using the LFSPRO.CS model to predict the onset of different cancer types as the first primary, we achieved AUCs between 0.70 and 0.83 for sarcoma, breast cancer, or other cancers combined.

CONCLUSION

We describe a study that fills in the critical gap in knowledge for the utility of risk prediction models. Using a CCB cohort, our previously validated models have demonstrated good performance and outperformed the standard clinical criteria. Our study suggests that better risk counseling may be achieved by GCs using these already-developed mathematical models.
Optimizing Postneoadjuvant Treatment in Patients With Early Breast Cancer Achieving Pathologic Complete Response
Authors: Valenza Carmine , Trapani Dario , Loibl Sibylle , Chia Stephen K.L. , Burstein Harold J. , Curigliano Giuseppe
Published: April 2024

pCR should be integrated with other prognostic factors to optimize postneoadjuvant treatments in BC.
New Daily Persistent Headache
Authors: Robbins Matthew
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVE

This article describes the clinical features, etiology, differential diagnosis, management, and prognosis of new daily persistent headache.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

New daily persistent headache has attracted renewed attention as it may arise in the setting of a COVID-19 infection. Spontaneous intracranial hypotension, particularly from CSF-venous fistulas, remains an important secondary headache disorder to consider before diagnosing new daily persistent headache. Symptomatic treatment for new daily persistent headache may include acute and preventive therapies used for migraine and tension-type headache, such as triptans, oral preventive agents, onabotulinumtoxinA, and agents that target calcitonin gene-related peptide.

ESSENTIAL POINTS

New daily persistent headache is a daily headache syndrome that starts acutely and can only be diagnosed after 3 months have elapsed and other secondary and primary headache diagnoses have been excluded. The clinical manifestations largely resemble either chronic migraine or chronic tension-type headache. The underlying cause is unknown, but it is plausible that multiple etiologies exist and that it is not a single disease entity. The prognosis is variable but often poor, and the treatment approach is largely extrapolated from the management of chronic migraine and chronic tension-type headache.
Posttraumatic Headache
Authors: Schwedt Todd J.
Published: April 2024

Objective

This article provides an overview of the epidemiology, diagnosis, clinical presentation, pathophysiology, prognosis, and treatment of posttraumatic headache attributed to mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI).

Latest Developments

The International Classification of Headache Disorders, Third Edition requires that posttraumatic headache begin within 7 days of the inciting trauma. Although posttraumatic headache characteristics and associated symptoms vary, most commonly there is substantial overlap with symptoms of migraine or tension-type headache. New insights into posttraumatic headache pathophysiology suggest roles for neuroinflammation, altered pain processing and modulation, and changes in brain structure and function. Although the majority of posttraumatic headache resolves during the acute phase, about one-third of individuals have posttraumatic headache that persists for at least several months. Additional work is needed to identify predictors and early markers of posttraumatic headache persistence, but several potential predictors have been identified such as having migraine prior to the mTBI, the total number of TBIs ever experienced, and the severity of initial symptoms following the mTBI. Few data are available regarding posttraumatic headache treatment; studies investigating different treatments and the optimal timing for initiating posttraumatic headache treatment are needed.

Essential Points

Posttraumatic headache begins within 7 days of the causative injury. The characteristics of posttraumatic headache most commonly resemble those of migraine or tension-type headache. Posttraumatic headache persists for 3 months or longer in about one-third of individuals. Additional studies investigating posttraumatic headache treatment are needed.
HERA-lding More Integration in Health? Examining the Discursive Legitimation of the European Commission's New Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority
Authors: Godziewski Charlotte , Rushton Simon
Published: April 2024

Context: Since COVID-19, the European Commission (EC) has sought to expand its activities in health through the development of a European Health Union and within it the Health Emergencies Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA).

Methods: The authors applied a discourse analysis to documents establishing HERA to investigate how the EC legitimated the creation of this institution. They focused on how it framed health emergencies, how it framed the added value of HERA, and how it linked HERA to existing EU activities and priorities.

Findings: Their analysis demonstrates that security-based logics have been central to the EC's legitimation of HERA in alignment with a “securitization of health” occurring worldwide in recent decades. This legitimation can be understood as part of the EC's effort to promote future integration in health in the absence of new competences.

Conclusions: Securitization has helped the EC raise its profile in health politically without additional competences, thereby laying the groundwork for potential future integration. Looking at the discursive legitimation of HERA sheds light not only on whether the EC is expanding its health powers but also how it strategizes to do so. HERA, while constrained, allows the EC to further deepen security-driven integration in health.
Pronoun Trouble
Authors: Boellstorff Tom
Published: April 2024

English speakers face a dilemma: the current structure of their language is exclusionary with regard to gender. This chapter suggests that radical gender inclusion is best achieved not with personalized gender pronouns, but general (also termed epicene) “they.” By examining pronouns across place and time, the chapter shows how English already marks gender only on third-person singular pronouns, and replacing these with they is feasible and effective. While there are significant disadvantages to personalized gender pronouns, there are also perils to epicene “they,” and the chapter discusses how to address these disadvantages. Using a comparative analysis and employing a decolonial perspective that decenters English, the chapter seeks to contribute to a future of radical gender inclusion and to demonstrate the power of queer anthropology to contribute to crucial contemporary debates.
When Our Tulips Speak Together
Authors: Parreñas Juno Salazar
Published: April 2024

This chapter engages such concepts as subjectivity, pronouns, essentialism, social construction, queer ecology, sociobiology, and representation by considering such life forms as tulips, apes, slime mold, starfish, bears, pigs, and bovines. It critiques the violence of heteronormativity and celebrates trans* possibilities, asexual or ace modes of reproduction, and intersex embodiments. It ultimately shows how nonhuman life forms help students and scholars of queer anthropology grasp and defy boundaries between materiality and semiotics; ontologies and epistemologies; nature and culture; as well as biology and society (biosocial approaches).
Μελέτη της γενοτοξικής και αντιγενοτοξικής δράσης εκχυλισμάτων φυσικών προϊόντων σε in vitro συνθήκες
Authors: Δορμούσογλου Μαργαρίτα
Published: April 2024

Σκοπός της παρούσας διατριβής είναι (α) η διερεύνηση των κυτταροτοξικών, γενοτοξικών και αντιγενοτοξικών ιδιοτήτων των εκχυλισμάτων που προκύπτουν από τη φλούδα του καρπού του είδους Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. και από το υπέργειο τμήμα του είδους Equisetum arvense L., μέσω εκχύλισης Soxhlet (β), ο προσδιορισμός της φυτοχημικής τους σύστασης (με τη χρήση αέριας χρωματογραφίας- φασματομετρίας μάζας/GC-MS και υγρής χρωματογραφίας υπερυψηλής πίεσης- φασματομετρία μάζας/UHPLC-MS), (γ) η ανίχνευση μετάλλων/ιχνοστοιχείων (με τη χρήση φασματομετρίας μάζας με επαγωγικά συζευγμένο πλάσμα/ICP-MS) και (δ) η εκτίμηση της αντιοξειδωτικής τους ικανότητας με την εφαρμογή των μεθόδων ABTS, DPPH και FRAP. Η κυτταροτοξική, γενοτοξική και αντιγενοτοξική δράση των εκχυλισμάτων μελετήθηκε με την εφαρμογή των μεθόδων αποκλεισμού της χρωστικής κυανού του τρυπανίου (trypan blue exclusion assay), αναστολής της κυτταροκίνησης με τη χρήση κυτταροχαλασίνης-Β (Cytokinesis Block Micronucleus assay, CBMN assay) σε καλλιέργειες ανθρώπινων λεμφοκυττάρων παρουσία/απουσία μεταβολικής ενεργοποίησης, και ηλεκτροφόρησης μοναδιαίων κυττάρων σε πήκτωμα αγαρόζης (Single Cell Gel Electrophoresis, SCGE/Comet assay) σε καλλιέργειες ανθρώπινων λεμφοκυττάρων. Σύμφωνα με τα αποτελέσματα, τα εκχυλίσματα και των δύο φυτικών ειδών ήταν κυτταροτοξικά, ενώ δεν παρουσίασαν γενοτοξικές επιπτώσεις. Αντίθετα, παρουσίασαν σημαντική αντιοξειδωτική και προστατευτική/ αντιγενοτοξική δράση έναντι γνωστών γενοτοξικών/μεταλλαξιγόνων και οξειδωτικών ενώσεων, όπως η μιτομυκίνη C (MMC), το κυκλοφωσφαμίδιο (CP) και το υπεροξείδιο του υδρογόνου (H2O2). Οι παρατηρούμενες προστατευτικές ιδιότητες των εκχυλισμάτων συνδέονται με την παρουσία φαινολικών οξέων, λιπαρών οξέων, φυτοστερολών, φλαβονοειδών καθώς και μετάλλων/ιχνοστοιχείων, όπως το κάλιο (K), το πυρίτιο (Si) και το μαγνήσιο (Mg). Τα αποτελέσματα της παρούσας διατριβής αναδεικνύουν για πρώτη φορά τις προστατευτικές ιδιότητες των φυτικών εκχυλισμάτων από τη φλούδα του καρπού του είδους Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. και από το υπέργειο τμήμα του είδους Equisetum arvense L στο γενετικό υλικό ανθρώπινων λεμφοκυττάρων σε in vitro συνθήκες.
Θεωρητική και εμπειρική διερεύνηση της σύνδεσης ιδιότυπων εμπορικών - πολιτιστικών γεγονότων με την περιφερειακή ενδογενή ανάπτυξη μέσω του τουρισμού
Authors: Φωλίνας Σωτήριος
Published: April 2024

Tο εν λόγω πόνημα θέτει ως στόχο τη θεωρητική και πρωτίστως εμπειρική διερεύνηση των ελληνικών ιδιότυπων εμπορικών-αγοραστικών γεγονότων, ως προς την ταυτότητά τους, τη σύνδεσή τους με τον τουρισμό, καθώς και με την τοπική ανάπτυξη των περιοχών που τα φιλοξενούν. Με καταβολές που χάνονται στα βάθη του χρόνου, τα ελληνικά ιδιότυπα εμπορικά γεγονότα, απαντώνται σε ένα εύρος ελληνικών πόλεων και περιοχών, προσελκύοντας αμείωτα και σταθερά, κάθε χρόνο, το ενδιαφέρον επισκεπτικών με πρόδηλα αυξημένη καταναλωτική διάθεση. Το ερευνητικό ενδιαφέρον είναι διττό και έγκειται αφενός στους λόγους βιωσιμότητας αυτών των γεγονότων ως αγορές -σε ένα ολοένα ψηφιακά μεταβαλλόμενο παγκόσμιο εμπορικό και καταναλωτικό περιβάλλον- και αφετέρου στο κατά πόσο αυτές οι διοργανώσεις αποτελούν -ή θα μπορούσαν να αποτελέσουν- εργαλεία και πόρους τουρισμο-κεντρικής ανάπτυξης για τις περιοχές φιλοξενίας. Μέσω της υλοποίηση εμπειρικής έρευνας και με τη συλλογή πρωτογενών δεδομένων, η παρούσα διατριβή επιδιώκει να καλύψει -όσο το δυνατόν αρτιότερα- επιστημονικά ερωτήματα που σχετίζονται με τα ελληνικά ιδιότυπα εμπορικά γεγονότα και πιο συγκεκριμένα, ερωτήματα που αφορούν στα αιτία για τα οποία εμφανίζουν αξιοσημείωτη επισκεπτικότητα -και κατά λογική συνέπεια, τους λόγους και το βαθμό ικανοποίησης των συμμετεχόντων- όπως επίσης και τα κίνητρα των επισκεπτών. Επιπλέον διερευνάται το περιεχόμενο αυτών των γεγονότων, καθώς και -η μείζονος σημασίας- συσχέτισή τους με προσέλκυση τουριστών. Η συγκεκριμένη διατριβή αποσκοπεί στην άμβλυνση του επιστημονικού διαλόγου, επί του πεδίου των ιδιότυπων αυτών γεγονότων, αφού ελάχιστοι έχουν ασχοληθεί επαρκώς επιστημονικά με αυτό ζήτημα, αλλά και να προσφέρει μια καταχώρηση χρήσιμης γνώσης σε κάθε ενδιαφερόμενο, είτε καθαρά ακαδημαϊκά, είτε σε πρακτικό επίπεδο. Το υλικό του κορμού αυτής της μελέτης επιμερίζεται σε δύο κύριους άξονες: την παρουσίαση και σε βάθος κατανόηση των πεπραγμένων και των ερευνών που αφορούν ανάλογα γεγονότα μέσα από τη διεθνή εμπειρία και την έκθεση της ίδια της πρωτογενούς έρευνας και των στοιχείων που προκύπτουν από αυτή καθώς και την ανάλυση και την ερμηνεία των αποτελεσμάτων αυτής. Κίνδυνοι και προοπτικές, ανεκμετάλλευτες ευκαιρίες ή κορεσμένα γεγονότα: σε ποιο βαθμό συγχρωτίζονται οι συγκεκριμένες έννοιες και όροι με τα παραδοσιακά παζάρια και μάλιστα σε σχέση με το τουριστικό φάσμα που όπως φαίνεται –και κατά γενική ομολογία- αποτελεί έναν από τους βασικούς πυρήνες των τοπικών οικονομιών και συνεπακόλουθα της εθνικής οικονομίας.
Tertiary Student Intention in Agricultural Sector Using Technology in Order to Maintain Food Security in West Java
Authors:   School of Business and Management, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Indonesia, Ulfah Halida , Furoidah Ayu , Aulia Teuku Muhammad Zahid Zuhair , Sulyani Agnesia Candra ,   Research and Innovation Management, Telkom Corporate University Centre, Indonesia, Larasati Niken
Published: April 2024

Food security is urgently needed in 2050. Facing current conditions, the agricultural industry in Indonesia no longer appeals to the younger generation, and many farmers are elderly; the challenge of limited land, human resources, and falling farmer regeneration is a global one. This study investigates the desire of tertiary students in West Java, Indonesia, to pursue a profession in agriculture. The study's goal is to identify the elements influencing tertiary students' intentions to contribute or pursue a profession in agriculture, the correlation between those factors, and the things that may boost tertiary students' desire in continuing their career in agriculture. The study will look at the effects of a student's income, land availability and ownership, the student's parents' background in a specific demographic, and the influence of contemporary agricultural technology and data. Using quantitative research design and ordinal logistic regression analysis method, the study found that the father's education, willingness lives in the village, and the data-driven agriculture variable influenced tertiary students' interest in the agricultural industry. Keywords: Agricultural sector, food security, intention, technology usage, tertiary students.
Elevating Consumer Decision Journey to Increase Consumer Loyalty in Tokopedia and Shopee for PT. SNACK LEZAT Products
Authors:   School of Business and Management, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Indonesia, Mulya Ardyanto , Wibowo Satya Aditya , Purwanegara Mustika Sufiati
Published: April 2024

Southeast Asia region's digital service growth trend is accelerating, with 60% of new digital users joining in the previous two years. This has an effect on e-commerce sales, which have risen quickly in recent years and are expected to rise further. Edible groceries in Indonesia are expected to increase with compounded annual growth rate 16.9% between 2022 - 2027. This growth is in line with the retail evolution from traditional market, modern market, to digital market PT. SNACK LEZAT is a global snack company and currently is focusing on e-commerce channels that still in an early stage of development and the sales are largely dependent on promotional periods. This research aims to identify the stages of the consumer decision journey to loyalty, so the right marketing strategy can be formulated and increase the repeat buyers to create a higher and sustained sales baseline. This research methodology was carried out using qualitative in-depth interviews and netnography. In-depth interviews were conducted with eight respondents, four of whom had purchased PT. SNACK LEZAT and four of whom had never purchased PT. SNACK LEZAT product. Netnography is carried out using the word cloud analysis based on product reviews in Shopee and Tokopedia platforms. The findings of this study reveal the expectations of each stage in consumer decisions journey to determine purchases on e-commerce platforms.
Digital learning, big data analytics and mechanisms for stabilizing and improving supply chain performance
Authors: Barhmi Aziz , Slamti Fahd , Laghzaoui Soulaimane , Rouijel Mohamed Reda
Published: April 2024

This study attempts to shed light on the nature of the contribution of digital learning orientation (DLO), as an intangible resource, to the development of the dynamic capability of supply chain data analytics powered by artificial intelligence (SCDA-AI) as well as to the moderation of its effects on the enhancement of the operational capabilities of supply chain flexibility (SCFL), supply chain resilience (SCRE) and supply chain responsiveness (SCRES) in order to stabilize and improve supply chain performance (SCPER) in times of uncertainties and disruptions. The study was based on survey data collected from 200 foreign companies based in Morocco. Respondents were mainly senior and middle managers with experience in general management and supply chain (SC). Validity and reliability analyses and hypothesis testing were carried out using structural equation modelling (SEM) with SPSS Amos. The results revealed that DLO acts as an antecedent to SCDA-AI without moderating its effects on the three operational capabilities of SCFL, SCRE and SCRES. In addition, this study provides further empirical evidence that dynamic capabilities can produce significant results in terms of stabilizing and improving performance through the generation and/or reconfiguration of operational capabilities in situations of uncertainties and disruptions.
Enhancing project quality through effective team management
Authors: Wawak Sławomir
Published: April 2024

This study aims to explore the relationship between team management and project quality, identify key contributing factors, and examine the role of employee involvement, commitment, and innovation. An empirical, cross-sectional study was conducted using an online survey to gather data from 510 respondents across various industries, projects, and experiences. Data analysis employed statistical techniques to reveal patterns and trends. Key factors contributing to project success include communication, comprehensive planning, clear roles and responsibilities, stakeholder requirements, and a supportive work environment. The significance of proper management approaches, techniques, and attitudes was also highlighted. The findings contribute to the current body of knowledge on project quality management and emphasize the need for a human-centered management approach to achieve high-quality project outcomes. This study sheds light on the pivotal role of effective team management in project quality, providing valuable insights and recommendations for project managers, team leaders, and organizations seeking to improve project performance.
Offline Returns for Online Retailers via Partnership
Authors: Nageswaran Leela , Hwang Elina H. , Cho Soo-Haeng
Published: April 2024

Online shoppers often prefer to return items to stores (i.e., “offline return”) rather than mail them back. We study a new business practice, return partnership, wherein online retailers partner with store retailers to offer offline returns. We seek to identify when return partnerships benefit both the store and online retailers. Customers choose between the online and store channels for their purchase and decide whether, and through which channel, to return an online purchase if needed. We find that store and online retailers who offer differentiated products have incentives to partner, as in the case of the return partnership between Everlane and Cost Plus World Market (formed via Happy Returns—a service provider that connects online retailers with store retailers). In this case, the online retailer’s benefit from the cost savings achieved by consolidating shipments of returned items from stores outweighs the loss associated with a high return rate. We show that, contrary to initial intuition, return partnerships may also feature retailers who offer similar products, as in the case of Amazon-Kohl’s. In this case, online customers’ migration to offline returns ensures a store retailer’s incentive to partner. However, it limits the incentive of an online retailer when the added convenience of an offline return induces more returns of online purchases. Thus, we caution that with limited differentiation in product offerings, store visits should not be too convenient for a partnership to form.

This paper was accepted by Jay Swaminathan, operations management.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2023.01291 .
Annular leukocytoclastic vasculitis: a new feature of IgA vasculitis
Authors: Belfeki Nabil , Ghriss Nouha , Kammoun Sonia , Zayet Souheil , Moini Cyrus , Terrier Benjamin
Published: April 2024

Background: Annular erythema is a rare manifestation of leukocytoclastic vasculitis. It may be associated with various drugs, infections, malignancies, or systemic diseases. Case description: A 36-year-old woman with no personal medical history presented with annular erythema with target lesions and petechial purpura. The patient had fever and joint arthralgia. A skin biopsy showed leukocytoclastic vasculitis with IgA deposits on direct immunofluorescence. The diagnosis of immunoglobulin A vasculitis with annular leukocytoclastic vasculitis was made. The patient showed global improvement with topical steroids without relapse. Conclusion: An annular variant of leukocytoclastic vasculitis is a rare manifestation of immunoglobulin A vasculitis.
Sudden cardiac arrest as first manifestation of malignant mitral valve prolapse in a young patient: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Bigdelu Leila , Bitar Zouheir , Maadarani Ossama
Published: April 2024

Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is a primary valvular disease of the mitral valve with a prevalence of 2.4% of the general population. Valve abnormalities range from simple fibroelastic deficiency of the leaflets to diffuse myxomatous degenerative changes. MVP is a usually a benign condition. However, the scattered reports of sudden cardiac death in patients with MVP in the absence of severe mitral insufficiency or coronary artery disease suggest the existence of a malignant phenotype of MVP. We report a case of a young female who survived life-threatening arrhythmias and cardiac arrest and was found to have characteristic features of the malignant phenotype of MVP and had an implantable cardioverter defibrillator as a secondary prevention.
Preliminary small-scaled thermal resistance testing of a masonry wall with enhanced electromagnetic shielding effectiveness
Authors:   Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Architecture Osijek, Vladimir Prelog St. 3, 31000 Osijek, Croatia, Vrdoljak Ivan , Krstić Hrvoje ,   Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Architecture Osijek, Vladimir Prelog St. 3, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
Published: April 2024

This study presents the preliminary results of a small-scale masonry wall thermal resistance (R-value) measurement. Two small-scale masonry walls were constructed using regular and antimony tin oxide (ATO)-containing bricks. ATO has shown potential for improving the protection against electromagnetic radiation penetration. R-values of the walls were measured using a FluxDAQ device equipped with a heat flux sensor and two temperature sensors for obtaining the heat flux and inside and outside temperatures during the measurement. Furthermore, the thermal conductivity (λ) of the bricks was measured by using the Fox200 Heat Flow Meter. Both results can be used for determining a walls’ thermal transmittance (U-value), which is often used for describing the energy losses and as a measure of a wall's energy efficiency. This research sought to investigate whether there is a correlation between the results obtained by the small-scale masonry wall and Fox200 device. Ultimately, this experiment aims to verify whether the small-scale masonry wall non-standard method described herein can provide approximately similar results to the standardised method.
Symphony of Fluid Punctum
Authors: Wuu Xuanzhuan Helle
Published: April 2024

In the summer of 2005, I moved from a working-class suburb to an urban area to attend high school. Perhaps driven by a sense of estrangement from my new living environment, the elite class, and my new neighbours, wandering the streets became my favourite after-school activity. Walking, wandering and photographing, the ambulatory state akin to that experienced by Baude-laire's flaneur, served as a shelter to store my nostalgia. From unfinished buildings and damaged spots to scaffolding, I was attracted to construction sites, finding my gaze exploring the roles they play in the urban environment.
Work in Progress
Authors: Adams Mark
Published: April 2024

Questions addressed in this project are concerned with issues of photographic representation and the ways in which, through extended walks with a camera, the medium might reflect upon the problematic coexistence of nature and a cultural progressive drive towards limitless manufacturing within the context of the broader geo-political issues that affect the planet. Specifically, the images respond to problems such as the human exploitation of natural resources, urban expansion and our reliance on fossil fuels in an era in which climate change is threatening our existence.
Conflicto y desconfianza en la Santa Liga (1571): La visión de los líderes hispánicos sobre sus aliados venecianos.
Authors: JURADO RIBA Víctor J.
Published: April 2024

La batalla de Lepanto ha sido estudiada desde aproximaciones muy diversas. Se trata de uno de los principales hitos militares del siglo XVI, una batalla que enfrentó dos enemigos antagónicos con más de 200 galeras por bando. Sin embargo, la desconfianza y recelos dentro de la Santa Liga hicieron que su funcionamiento fuera muy difícil, con incertidumbres constantes entre españoles y venecianos. En este estudio se analizará uno de los bandos, a través de correspondencia y comunicación directa entre el rey y la alta dirección hispánica de la Liga.
Beyond Boundaries: Reverend Charles Nerinckx and Sisters of Loretto at the Foot of the Cross
Authors: Stevens Annie E.
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT: This article focuses on the life and legacy of Reverend Charles Nerinckx (1761–1824), Belgian missionary and priest-founder of the Sisters of Loretto at the Foot of the Cross, on the 200th anniversary of his death. As a fugitive from Napoleonic religious suppression in his native Belgium, where he had been forced into hiding, Nerinckx developed a strong sense of Christian conscience in regard to human suffering. Among his notable contributions, he envisioned a new type of religious community in borderland Kentucky soon after his arrival there in 1805, one that allowed multiple forms of belonging, including an interracial group of oblates and a Black sisterhood.
Towards Integrated Quantum Photonic Systems in the Mid-Infrared
Authors: Currie Sebastian , Sulway Dominic , Dominguez Dario Quintero , Radulovic Marija , Palmer Quinn , Higgins Aidan , Gears Samuel , Adcock Jeremy , Silverstone Joshua
Published: April 2024

The ideal scaleable quantum optical platform must be able to generate, evolve, and detect quantum states, all with high performance. We report progress towards an integrated platform, silicon photonics in the mid-infrared, which can.
Enabling 3D Virtual Worlds in an Instant
Authors: Sankaranarayanan Aswin
Published: April 2024

A 3D display must faithfully reproduce the visual cues pertaining to vergence, accommodation, occlusion, and motion parallax. I will talk about recent work on computational display designs that enable such features in near-eye displays.
Solving and Using Optical Disorder for Biophotonic Applications
Authors: Jang Mooseok
Published: April 2024

This talk will discuss combined approaches of wavefront shaping techniques, spatial and temporal gating methods, a computational treatment of scattered light, and a disordered metasurface platform to solve and use optical disorder.
An Innovative Optical Fibre Device for Micro-Pollutants and Greenhouse Gas Monitoring Wanvisa Talataisong is a 2022 Optica Foundation Challenge Winner optica.org/FoundationChallenge
Authors: Talataisong Wanvisa
Published: April 2024

Abstract not available.