bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphological and Quantitative Parametric MRI Follow-up of Cartilage Changes Before and After Intra-articular Injection Therapy in Patients With Mild to Moderate Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Tschopp Marcel , Pfirrmann Christian W.A. , Brunner Florian , Fucentese Sandro F. , Galley Julien , Stern Christoph , Sutter Reto , Catanzaro Sabrina , Kühne Nathalie , Rosskopf Andrea B.
Published: February 2024

Background

Intra-articular injections are routinely used for conservative treatment of knee osteoarthritis (OA). The detailed comparative therapeutic effects of these injections on cartilage tissue are still unclear.

Objective

The aim of this study was to detect and compare knee cartilage changes after intra-articular injection of glucocorticoid, hyaluronic acid, or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to placebo using quantitative (T2 and T2* mapping) and morphological magnetic resonance imaging parameters in patients with mild or moderate osteoarthritis.

Materials and Methods

In a double-blinded, placebo-controlled, single-center trial, knees with mild or moderate osteoarthritis (Kellgren-Lawrence grade 1–3) were randomly assigned to an intra-articular injection with 1 of these substances: glucocorticoid, hyaluronic acid, PRP, or placebo. Cartilage degeneration on baseline and follow-up magnetic resonance imaging scans (after 3 and 12 months) was assessed by 2 readers using quantitative T2 and T2* times (milliseconds) and morphological parameters (modified Outerbridge grading, subchondral bone marrow edema, subchondral cysts, osteophytes).

Results

One hundred twenty knees (30 knees per treatment group) were analyzed with a median patient age of 60 years (interquartile range, 54.0–68.0 years). Interreader reliability was good for T2 (ICC, 0.76; IQR, 0.68–0.83) and T2* (ICC, 0.83; IQR, 0.76–0.88) measurements. Morphological parameters showed no significant changes between all groups after 3 and 12 months. T2 mapping after 12 months showed the following significant (P = 0.001–0.03) changes between groups in 6 of 14 compartments: values after PRP injection decreased compared with glucocorticoid in 4 compartments (complete medial femoral condyle and central part of lateral condyle) and compared with placebo in 2 compartments (anterior and central part of medial tibial plateau); values after glucocorticoid injection decreased compared with placebo in 1 compartment (central part of medial tibial plateau). No significant changes were seen for T2 and T2* times after 3 months and T2* times after 12 months. No correlation was found between T2/T2* times and Kellgren-Lawrence grade, age, body mass index, or pain (Spearman ρ, −0.23 to 0.18).

Conclusions

Platelet-rich plasma injection has a positive long-term effect on cartilage quality in the medial femoral compartment compared to glucocorticoid, resulting in significantly improved T2 values after 12 months. For morphological cartilage parameters, injections with glucocorticoid, PRP, or hyaluronic acid showed no better effect in the short or long term compared with placebo.
Lactobacillus juensis sp. nov. and Lactobacillus rizhaonensis sp. nov., isolated from the gut of honeybee (Apis mellifera)
Authors: Jiang Cheng-Shan , Gu Chun Tao
Published: February 2024

Four lactic acid bacteria, designated F690T, F697, F790T and F769-2, were isolated from the gut of honeybee (Apis mellifera). Results of 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis indicated that strains F690T and F697 were phylogenetically related to the type strains of Lactobacillus kimbladii, Lactobacillus laiwuensis, Lactobacillus kullabergensis and Lactobacillus huangpiensis, having 99.1–99.6 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities; and that strains F790T and F769-2 were most closely related to the type strain of Lactobacillus melliventris, having 99.2–99.3 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities. The phylogenies based on concatenated pheS, rpoA, gyrB, hsp60, recA, rpoB and tuf sequences and based on whole genome sequences were identical to that based on 16S rRNA gene sequences. Strains F690T and F697 exhibited the highest average nucleotide identity (ANI; 92.1–93.2 %), digital DNA–DNA hybridization (dDDH; 50–50.1 %) and average amino acid identity (AAI; 94.9–95.1 %) values with L. kimbladii Hma2NT. Strains F790T and F769-2 had the highest ANI (93.1–94 %), dDDH (54.4 %) and AAI (94.4–94.7 %) values with L. melliventris Hma8NT. Based upon the data obtained in the present study, two novel species, Lactobacillus juensis sp. nov. and Lactobacillus rizhaonensis sp. nov., are proposed and the type strains are F690T (=JCM 36259T=CCTCC AB 2023131T) and F790T (=JCM 36260T=CCTCC AB 2023132T), respectively.
Reclassification of Allomuricauda and Muricauda species as members of the genus Flagellimonas Bae et al. 2007 and emended description of the genus Flagellimonas
Authors: Novoa Eduardo A. Molinari , Deshmukh Umakant Bhoopati , Oren Aharon
Published: February 2024

The recently proposed genus Allomuricauda Deshmukh and Oren 2023 is illegitimate because it includes the type species of the genera Flagellimonas Bae et al. 2007 and Spongiibacterium Yoon and Oh 2012, contravening Rule 51b(1) of the International Code of Nomenclature of Prokaryotes. As Flagellimonas Bae et al. 2007 is the earlier described genus, we here reclassify 36 species earlier described as belonging to the illegitimate genus Muricauda as species of Flagellimonas. We also present an emended description of the genus Flagellimonas.
Diplopoda in the world fossil record
Authors: Álvarez Rodríguez Michelle , Riquelme Francisco , Patricio Miguel A. Hernández , Cupul-Magaña Fabio
Published: February 2024

We present a comprehensive catalog with an updated database of the fossil record of Diplopoda in the world. Taxonomic data was collected from descriptions and reports published from 1854 to the present. We also include new records from the Lower Miocene Mexican amber, counting 83 unknown fossil inclusions, with the first records of the orders Polyxenida, Platydesmida, and Julida, as well as the families Sphaeriodesmidae and Trichopolydesmidae within Polydesmida. According to our results, Diplopoda comprises 217 fossil records from the Middle Silurian to Upper Pleistocene, representing three subclasses, six superorders, 25 orders, one superfamily, 54 families, 90 genera, and 156 fossil species. To date, no fossils of the order Siphonocryptida have been reported. The fossil record extends over three geological eras: the Paleozoic, with 156 records; the Mesozoic, with 51; and the Cenozoic, with 77. The fossil preservation includes 87 impressions, 68 compressions, 108 amber inclusions, and 19 ichnites. Thus, this catalog allows us to estimate the size and taxonomic composition of Diplopoda in the fossil record worldwide.
Data-driven discovery of gene expression markers distinguishing pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia subtypes
Authors: Nourbakhsh Mona , Tom Nikola , Schrøder Lassen Anna , Brasch Lind Petersen Helene , Kristoffer Stoltze Ulrik , Wadt Karin , Schmiegelow Kjeld , Tiberti Matteo , Papaleo Elena
Published: February 2024

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), the most common cancer in children, is overall divided into two subtypes, B-cell precursor ALL (B-ALL) and T-cell ALL (T-ALL), which have different molecular characteristics. Despite massive progress in understanding the disease trajectories of ALL, ALL remains a major cause of death in children. Thus, further research exploring the biological foundations of ALL is essential. Here, we examined the diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic potential of gene expression data in pediatric patients with ALL. We discovered a subset of expression markers differentiating B- and T-ALL:CCN2,VPREB3,NDST3,EBF1, RN7SKP185, RN7SKP291, SNORA73B, RN7SKP255, SNORA74A, RN7SKP48, RN7SKP80, LINC00114, a novel gene (ENSG00000227706), and 7SK. The expression level of these markers all demonstrated significant effects on survival of the patients, comparing the two subtypes. We also discovered four expression subgroups in the expression data with eight genes driving separation between two of these predicted subgroups. A subset of the 14 markers could separate B- and T-ALL in an independent cohort of patients with ALL. This study can enhance our knowledge of the transcriptomic profile of different ALL subtypes.
Implementing remote monitoring for COVID-19 patients in primary care
Authors: Holtz Svea , Köhler Susanne M. , Chabiera Peter Jan , Dauletbaev Nurlan , Deutsch Kim , Oftring Zoe , Lawin Dennis , Niekrenz Lukas , Euler Teresa , Gloeckl Rainer , Koczulla Rembert , Rohde Gernot , Dreher Michael , Vogelmeier Claus F. , Kuhn Sebastian , Müller Beate Sigrid
Published: February 2024

Background

In Germany, most patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are treated in an outpatient setting. To improve assessments of the health status of COVID-19 outpatients, various remote monitoring models have been developed. However, little information exists on experiences acquired with remote monitoring in an outpatient setting, particularly from a patient perspective. The aim of our ‘COVID-19@home’ study was therefore to implement and evaluate an app-based remote monitoring concept for acute and post-acute COVID-19-patients in primary care. In this paper, we focus on the patients’ evaluation of our remote monitoring approach.

Methods

Patients with acute COVID-19 measured heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and body temperature daily for 28 days. Patients with post-acute COVID-19 determined the same parameters for 12 weeks, supplemented by lung parameters and daily step count. The data were documented using the ‘SaniQ’ smartphone app. COVID-19 symptoms were assessed daily using an app-based questionnaire. Patients’ GPs could access the data on the ‘SaniQ Praxis’ telemedicine platform. We used an app-based questionnaire consisting of 11 questions presented with a 4-point Likert scale to evaluate patient satisfaction. Data were analyzed descriptively.

Results

Of the 51 patients aged 19-77 years that participated in the study, 42 completed the questionnaire. All patients rated home monitoring as ‘very good’ or ‘rather good’ and were able to integrate the measuring processes into their daily routines. Overall, 93% would recommend the app and the measuring devices to their family and friends. About 60% felt that their COVID-19 treatment had benefited from home monitoring. Only few patients were unsettled by the app and use of the measuring devices. During the course of the study, the implementation process was optimized.

Conclusions

The use of remote monitoring in COVID-19 patients is feasible and was evaluated positively by most study patients. However, it is difficult to imagine how general practices could cope with monitoring patients with acute diseases without any further organizational support. Future research should address cost-effectiveness and changes in such clinical outcomes as hospitalization and mortality.
The dimensionality of the Death Anxiety Inventory-Revised in Colombian-aged adults
Authors: Campo-Arias Adalberto , Reyes-Rojas Monica , Ceballos-Ospino Guillermo Augusto
Published: February 2024

The Death Anxiety Inventory-Revised (DAI-R) is a relatively new instrument to quantify anxiety about death in different contexts. However, the dimensionality in the elderly population is unknown. The study aimed to corroborate the dimensionality of the DAI-R among Colombian-aged adults. A psychometric study was conducted with the participation of 100 aged adults (M=68.82, SD=4.82; 52% were male gender). This scale has 17 items, grouped into four dimensions or factors, and a dichotomous answer pattern. Dimensionality was tested using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and goodness-of-fit indicators were computed. The CFA showed unacceptable goodness-of-fit indicators, and the four-dimensional structure of the DAI-R was rejected. In conclusion, the DAI-R has an unsatisfactory four-dimensional structure among Colombian-aged adults. Further research should corroborate this finding with a large sample size.
Validation of an ICD-code-based case definition for psychotic illness across three health systems
Authors: Deo Anthony J. , Castro Victor M. , Baker Ashley , Carroll Devon , Gonzalez-Heydrich Joseph , Henderson David C. , Holt Daphne J. , Hook Kimberly , Karmacharya Rakesh , Roffman Joshua L. , Madsen Emily M. , Song Eugene , Adams William G. , Camacho Luisa , Gasman Sarah , Gibbs Jada S. , Fortgang Rebecca G. , Kennedy Chris J. , Lozinski Galina , Perez Daisy C. , Wilson Marina , Reis Ben Y. , Smoller Jordan W.
Published: February 2024

Background and Hypothesis

Early detection of psychosis is critical for improving outcomes. Algorithms to predict or detect psychosis using electronic health record (EHR) data depend on the validity of the case definitions used, typically based on diagnostic codes. Data on the validity of psychosis-related diagnostic codes is limited. We evaluated the positive predictive value (PPV) of International Classification of Diseases (ICD) codes for psychosis.

Study Design

Using EHRs at three health systems, ICD codes comprising primary psychotic disorders and mood disorders with psychosis were grouped into five higher-order groups. 1,133 records were sampled for chart review using the full EHR. PPVs (the probability of chart-confirmed psychosis given ICD psychosis codes) were calculated across multiple treatment settings.

Study Results

PPVs across all diagnostic groups and hospital systems exceeded 70%: Massachusetts General Brigham 0.72 [95% CI 0.68-0.77], Boston Children’s Hospital 0.80 [0.75-0.84], and Boston Medical Center 0.83 [0.79-0.86]. Schizoaffective disorder PPVs were consistently the highest across sites (0.80-0.92) and major depressive disorder with psychosis were the most variable (0.57-0.79). To determine if the first documented code captured first-episode psychosis (FEP), we excluded cases with prior chart evidence of a diagnosis of or treatment for a psychotic illness, yielding substantially lower PPVs (0.08–0.62).

Conclusions

We found that the first documented psychosis diagnostic code accurately captured true episodes of psychosis but was a poor index of FEP. These data have important implications for the development of risk prediction models designed to predict or detect undiagnosed psychosis.
Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: 2023 Year in Review
Authors: Awasthi Raghav , Mishra Shreya , Grasfield Rachel , Maslinski Julia , Mahapatra Dwarikanath , Cywinski Jacek B. , Khanna Ashish K. , Maheshwari Kamal , Dave Chintan , Khare Avneesh , Papay Francis A. , Mathur Piyush
Published: February 2024

Background

The infodemic we are experiencing with AI related publications in healthcare is unparalleled. The excitement and fear surrounding the adoption of rapidly evolving AI in healthcare applications pose a real challenge. Collaborative learning from published research is one of the best ways to understand the associated opportunities and challenges in the field. To gain a deep understanding of recent developments in this field, we have conducted a quantitative and qualitative review of AI in healthcare research articles published in 2023.

Methods

We performed a PubMed search using the terms, “machine learning” or “artificial intelligence” and “2023”, restricted to English language and human subject research as of December 31, 2023 on January 1, 2024. Utilizing a Deep Learning-based approach, we assessed the maturity of publications. Following this, we manually annotated the healthcare specialty, data utilized, and models employed for the identified mature articles. Subsequently, empirical data analysis was performed to elucidate trends and statistics.Similarly, we performed a search for Large Language Model(LLM) based publications for the year 2023.

Results

Our PubMed search yielded 23,306 articles, of which 1,612 were classified as mature. Following exclusions, 1,226 articles were selected for final analysis. Among these, the highest number of articles originated from the Imaging specialty (483), followed by Gastroenterology (86), and Ophthalmology (78). Analysis of data types revealed that image data was predominant, utilized in 75.2% of publications, followed by tabular data (12.9%) and text data (11.6%). Deep Learning models were extensively employed, constituting 59.8% of the models used. For the LLM related publications,after exclusions, 584 publications were finally classified into the 26 different healthcare specialties and used for further analysis. The utilization of Large Language Models (LLMs), is highest in general healthcare specialties, at 20.1%, followed by surgery at 8.5%.

Conclusion

Image based healthcare specialities such as Radiology, Gastroenterology and Cardiology have dominated the landscape of AI in healthcare research for years. In the future, we are likely to see other healthcare specialties including the education and administrative areas of healthcare be driven by the LLMs and possibly multimodal models in the next era of AI in healthcare research and publications.
Tissue-specific and endogenous protein labeling with split fluorescent proteins
Authors: Ligunas Gloria D. , Paniagua German , LaBelle Jesselynn , Ramos-Martinez Adela , Shen Kyle , Gerlt Emma H. , Aguilar Kaddy , Nguyen Alice , Materna Stefan C. , Woo Stephanie
Published: February 2024

The ability to label proteins by fusion with genetically encoded fluorescent proteins is a powerful tool for understanding dynamic biological processes. However, current approaches for expressing fluorescent protein fusions possess drawbacks, especially at the whole organism level. Expression by transgenesis risks potential overexpression artifacts while fluorescent protein insertion at endogenous loci is technically difficult and, more importantly, does not allow for tissue-specific study of broadly expressed proteins. To overcome these limitations, we have adopted the split fluorescent protein system mNeonGreen21-10/11(split-mNG2) to achieve tissue-specific and endogenous protein labeling in zebrafish. In our approach, mNG21-10is expressed under a tissue-specific promoter using standard transgenesis while mNG211is inserted into protein-coding genes of interest using CRISPR/Cas-directed gene editing. Each mNG2 fragment on its own is not fluorescent, but when co-expressed the fragments self-assemble into a fluorescent complex. Here, we report successful use of split-mNG2 to achieve differential labeling of the cytoskeleton genestubb4bandkrt8in various tissues. We also demonstrate that by anchoring the mNG21-10component to specific cellular compartments, the split-mNG2 system can be used to manipulate protein function. Our approach should be broadly useful for a wide range of applications.
Drug inhibition and substrate alternating flipping mechanisms of human VMAT2
Authors: Wei Feiwen , Liu Huihui , Zhang Wei , Wang Jufang , Zhang Yanqing
Published: February 2024

Vesicular monoamine transporters (VMAT1/2) are responsible for loading and packaging monoamine neurotransmitters into synaptic vesicles, including serotonin (5-HT), dopamine (DA), norepinephrine, and histamine. Dysregulation of VMAT2 within the central nervous system can lead to schizophrenia, mood disorders, and Parkinson’s disease, due to the imbalances of these monoamine neurotransmitters. Medications such as tetrabenazine (TBZ) and valbenazine (VBZ) targetting VMAT2 are approved for treating chorea associated with Huntington’s disease and Tardive Dyskinesia. Our cryo-EM studies and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations on VMAT2 bound to drug inhibitors (TBZ and VBZ) and substrates (5-HT and DA), unveil the inhibition mechanism of VMAT2, alternating flipping mechanism of substrates during loading, translocation, and release, as well as the interplay between protonation of crucial acidic residues and substrate release. These findings enhance the understanding of VMAT-mediated monoamine neurotransmitter transport, fostering drug development for neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders, with a specific emphasis on VMATs.
DVL1variants and C-terminal deletions have differential effects on craniofacial development and WNT signaling
Authors: Tophkhane Shruti S. , Gignac Sarah J. , Fu Katherine , Verheyen Esther M. , Richman Joy M.
Published: February 2024

Robinow Syndrome (RS) is a rare disease characterized by craniofacial malformations and limb shortening linked with mutations in seven WNT pathway genes. Our objective was to investigate the functional effects of frameshift mutations the intracellular adaptor protein, Dishevelled (DVL1;c.1519ΔT, p.Trp507Glyfs*142) on chicken craniofacial development. Misexpression of wt (wt) or mutant hDVL1variants in vivo caused upper beak shortening (wtDVL1n=8/14;DVL11519ΔT12/13). At early stages of development, theDVL11519ΔTinhibited frontonasal mass narrowing, chondrogenesis, and proliferation. To test whether the phenotypes were caused due to the abnormal C-terminal peptide inDVL11519ΔT, we designed two additional constructs. TheDVL11519*(DVL1507*) retains first 30 amino acids of the C-terminus whileDVL11431*(DVL1477*) removes the entire C-terminus.DVL11519*injected embryos had normal beaks whileDVL11431*caused high mortality and the phenotypes were like theDVL11519ΔT. In frontonasal micromass cultures, bothDVL11519ΔTandDVL11431*inhibited skeletogenesis while theDVL11519*resembled wtDVL1andGFPcultures. In luciferase assaysDVL11519ΔT,DVL11519*andDVL11431*weakly activated the WNT canonical and non-canonical JNK-PCP pathways compared to wtDVL1. Furthermore, we observed that variant DVL1507*fsis stalled in the nucleus similar to hDVL1477*, possibly due to the abnormal C-terminus interfering with the nuclear export sequence. wtDVL1 and DVL1507*were distributed in nucleus and the cytoplasm. Our RS-DVL11519ΔTavian model recapitulates the broad face and jaw hypoplasia and demonstrates defects in both branches of WNT signaling. This is the first study to clarify the role of abnormal C-terminus in ADRS and to recognize the importance of an uncharacterized C-terminal sequence.

Summary Statement

Functional and biochemical studies on chicken embryos with the Robinow syndrome (RS)DVL1variant demonstrate defects in skeletogenesis and both branches of WNT signaling. This is the first study to establish a link between the RS facial defects and the mutated C-terminal sequence. We identified first 30 amino acids of theDVL1C-terminus are sufficient for normal development.
Collective polaritonic effects on chemical dynamics suppressed by disorder
Authors: Pérez-Sánchez Juan B. , Mellini Federico , Giebink Noel C. , Yuen-Zhou Joel
Published: February 2024

We present a powerful formalism, disordered collective dynamics using truncated equations (d-CUT-E), to simulate the ultrafast quantum dynamics of molecular polaritons in the collective strong coupling regime, where a disordered ensemble of N≫106 molecules couples to a cavity mode. Notably, we can capture this dynamics with a cavity hosting a single molecule with ∼Nbins electronic states, where Nbins≪N is the number of bins discretizing the disorder distribution. Using d-CUT-E we conclude that strong coupling, as evaluated from linear optical spectra, can be a poor proxy for polariton chemistry. For highly disordered ensembles, total reaction yield upon broadband excitation is identical to that outside of the cavity, while narrowband excitation produces distinct reaction yields solely due to differences in the initial states prepared prior to the reaction.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Decomposing large unitaries into multimode devices of arbitrary size
Authors: Arends Christian , Wolf Lasse , Meinecke Jasmin , Barkhofen Sonja , Weich Tobias , Bartley Tim J.
Published: February 2024

Decomposing complex unitary evolution into a series of constituent components is a cornerstone of practical quantum information processing. While the decomposition of an n×n unitary into a product of 2×2 subunitaries (which can for example be realized by beam splitters and phase shifters in linear optics) is well established, we show how for any m>2 this decomposition can be generalized into a product of m×m subunitaries (which can then be realized by a more complex device acting on m modes). If the cost associated with building each m×m multimode device is less than constructing with m(m−1)2 individual 2×2 devices, we show that the decomposition of large unitaries into m×m submatrices is more resource efficient and exhibits a higher tolerance to errors, than its 2×2 counterpart. This allows larger-scale unitaries to be constructed with lower errors, which is necessary for various tasks, not least boson sampling, the quantum Fourier transform, and quantum simulations.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Emergent leadership in agile software development teams: leader identification through network analysis and aggregation approaches
Authors: Tabassum Marya , Raziq Muhammad Mustafa , Sarwar Naukhez
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Agile project teams are self-managing and self-organizing teams, and these two characteristics are pivotal attributes of emergent leadership. Emergent leadership is thus common in agile teams – however, how these (informal) emergent leaders can be identified in teams remains far from understood. The purpose of this research is to uncover techniques that enable top management to identify emergent agile leaders.

Methodology/design

We approached six agile teams from four organizations. We employ social network analysis (SNA) and aggregation approaches to identify emergent agile leaders.

Design/methodology/approach

We approached six agile teams from four organizations. We employ SNA and aggregation approaches to identify emergent agile leaders.

Findings

Seven emergent leaders are identified using the SNA and aggregation approaches. The same leaders are also identified using the KeyPlayer algorithms. One emergent leader is identified from each of the five teams, for a total of five emergent leaders from the five teams. However, two emergent leaders are identified for the remaining sixth team.

Originality/value

Emergent leadership is a relatively new phenomenon where leaders emerge from within teams without having a formal leadership assigned role. A challenge remains as to how such leaders can be identified without any formal leadership status. We contribute by showing how network analysis and aggregation approaches are suitable for the identification of emergent leadership talent within teams. In addition, we help advance leadership research by describing the network behaviors of emergent leaders and offering a way forward to identify more than one emergent leader in a team. We also show some limitations of the approaches used and offer some useful insights.
Clothing image attribute editing based on generative adversarial network, with reference to an upper garment
Authors: Wang Wei-Zhen , Xiao Hong-Mei , Fang Yuan
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Nowadays, artificial intelligence (AI) technology has demonstrated extensive applications in the field of art design. Attribute editing is an important means to realize clothing style and color design via computer language, which aims to edit and control the garment image based on the specified target attributes while preserving other details from the original image. The current image attribute editing model often generates images containing missing or redundant attributes. To address the problem, this paper aims for a novel design method utilizing the Fashion-attribute generative adversarial network (AttGAN) model was proposed for image attribute editing specifically tailored to women’s blouses.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed design method primarily focuses on optimizing the feature extraction network and loss function. To enhance the feature extraction capability of the model, an increase in the number of layers in the feature extraction network was implemented, and the structure similarity index measure (SSIM) loss function was employed to ensure the independent attributes of the original image were consistent. The characteristic-preserving virtual try-on network (CP_VTON) dataset was used for train-ing to enable the editing of sleeve length and color specifically for women’s blouse.

Findings

The experimental results demonstrate that the optimization model’s generated outputs have significantly reduced problems related to missing attributes or visual redundancy. Through a comparative analysis of the numerical changes in the SSIM and peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) before and after the model refinement, it was observed that the improved SSIM increased substantially by 27.4%, and the PSNR increased by 2.8%, serving as empirical evidence of the effectiveness of incorporating the SSIM loss function.

Originality/value

The proposed algorithm provides a promising tool for precise image editing of women’s blouses based on the GAN. This introduces a new approach to eliminate semantic expression errors in image editing, thereby contributing to the development of AI in clothing design.
Nexus among green intellectual capital, green information systems, green management initiatives and sustainable performance: a mediated-moderated perspective
Authors: Riaz Adil , Cepel Martin , Ferraris Alberto , Ashfaq Khurram , Rehman Shafique Ur
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Sustainability issues are crucial in today’s competitive environment. The integration of technology plays a vital role in the attainment of sustainability objectives. The study aims to investigate the relationship between green intellectual capital (IC), green information systems (IS), green management initiatives (GMI) and green technology adoption in light of natural resource-orchestration theory (ROT). Moreover, digital technology adoption mediates between green IC, green IS, GMI and sustainable performance. Finally, digital transformation strategy is used as a moderator between green technology adoption and sustainable performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 484 managers from automobile manufacturing companies was used in this study to evaluate the proposed relationships using the Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) methodology.

Findings

Findings reveal that green IC, green IS and GMI significantly influence green technology adoption. Besides, green technology adoption plays a crucial role in improving sustainable performance. Moreover, green technology adoption significantly mediates between green IC, green IS, GMI and sustainable performance. Finally, a digital transformation strategy significantly strengthens the relationship between green technology adoption and sustainable performance.

Practical implications

The organizations need green technology adoption to address environmental concerns, respond to consumer demand, achieve cost savings and comply with government regulations. Besides, in decision-making, organizations must focus on green IC, green IS, GMI, green technology adoption and digital transformation strategy to boost sustainable performance.

Originality/value

The originality of this study lies in its use of the natural ROT as a framework to examine the impact of multiple green resources on green technology adoption, leading to sustainable performance. Digital transformation strategy is used as a moderator between green technology adoption and sustainable performance. This study provides a comprehensive and integrated perspective on the subject with empirical evidence and relevant insights, contributing to the advancement of the field.
Digital tendencies in public libraries in Balochistan, Pakistan: issues and challenges
Authors: Jabeen Munazza , Aslam Sanila , Zareef Muhammad , Zaman Farzana
Published: February 2024

Purpose

In the digital age, public libraries are facing numerous challenges, and the Balochistan public libraries are no exception. This study aimed to identify current digital trends adopted by the public libraries in Balochistan and to find out about challenges and potential solutions regarding digital trends from library users.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative study was carried out and data were collected through the survey method, employing a structured questionnaire. The target population consisted of 17,953 users of 17 public libraries in Balochistan. A sample of 510 users both male and female was selected by using random sampling technique from the target population.

Findings

The analysis revealed that patrons of public libraries are dissatisfied with the services offered, as they now require access to new digital trends such as fast Internet, download facilities, unlimited content on numerous resources, Wi-Fi, online reference services, universal accessibility and user-friendly interfaces. Unfortunately, public libraries in Balochistan are still lagging in terms of development. The study recommended that public libraries in Balochistan should develop and implement digital services, increase access to digital resources, hire professional librarians, professional development and collaborate with other libraries.

Originality/value

The study’s findings can assist in improving public library services and granting patrons access to current information and resources in Balochisthan and other developing countries. This study’s originality stems from its use of a quantitative survey approach to gather data from 17 public libraries in Balochisthan and provide a comprehensive view of the digital challenges they face. The study’s focus on digital tendencies is relevant in today’s world, where technology is rapidly changing the way, we access and consume information.
Role of product advantage in shaping product outcome: a hybrid review
Authors: Kalro Hitesh , Joshipura Mayank
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study examines current dynamics, consolidates current knowledge, elicits trends, identifies and analyzes primary research clusters, offers future directions, and develops an integrated framework for Product Advantage (PA) research.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the SCOPUS database, this study applied bibliometric analysis (208 articles) and conducted content analysis on the 35 curated articles selected using a combination of bibliographic coupling and the most cited articles.

Findings

This study presents the field’s publication trends, most relevant authors, articles, journals, and knowledge structures. It identifies six primary research themes and four major clusters using the thematic map and bibliographic coupling. Marketing and PA, New Product Development (NPD) and PA, Product Innovation and PA, and New product speed and PA are the main clusters. Finally, this study offers directions for future research and provides an integrated framework for PA research.

Practical implications

By developing an ADO framework of PA, the study offers key insights into how PA shapes product outcomes and identifies key antecedents of PA. Firms must focus on firm factors such as market and technological orientation; product factors, such as development time and pre-announcement proficiency; external factors, such as competition; and environmental factors, such as competitive intensity and technological turbulence. It enables firms to create products with high PA, shaping product outcomes and contributing to their competitive advantage.

Originality/value

This is the first study to conduct a two-stage sequential hybrid review of quality articles on PA. It offers an Antecedents-Decisions-Consequences (ADO) framework based on significant studies and offers cluster-wise directors for future research.
“It's kind of preventative maintenance”: social capital and policing in rural schools
Authors: Spencer Dale C. , Ricciardelli Rosemary , Hepburn Taryn
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to examine the expectations, challenges and tensions officers describe while engaged with public schools to demonstrate that officers engage with students in public schools in a conscious, goal-oriented process to establish and maintain useful relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

Data collection involved 104 semi-structured interviews (including follow up interviews) and 31 focus groups, conducted between 2014 and 2018 with police officers working in rural areas of a province in Atlantic Canada.

Findings

Utilizing the concept of social capital, we analyze practices of investments alongside the understanding of rurality as socially interconnected and the rural school as a particular site of interconnectedness for police officers. We demonstrate how, while accumulating social capital, officers face role tension and fundamental barriers when trying to integrate into rural school communities.

Originality/value

By demonstrating the specificities of building social capital in schools and community environments in a rural setting, we contribute to understandings regarding the unique opportunities and challenges faced by police in rural schools in integrating effectively into schools and responding to youth-specific problems.
Addressing the gap in information security: an HR-centric and AI-driven framework for mitigating insider threats
Authors: Thite Mohan , Iyer Ramanathan
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Despite ongoing reports of insider-driven leakage of confidential data, both academic scholars and practitioners tend to focus on external threats and favour information technology (IT)-centric solutions to secure and strengthen their information security ecosystem. Unfortunately, they pay little attention to human resource management (HRM) solutions. This paper aims to address this gap and proposes an actionable human resource (HR)-centric and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven framework.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper highlights the dangers posed by insider threats and presents key findings from a Leximancer-based analysis of a rapid literature review on the role, nature and contribution of HRM for information security, especially in addressing insider threats. The study also discusses the limitations of these solutions and proposes an HR-in-the-loop model, driven by AI and machine learning to mitigate these limitations.

Findings

The paper argues that AI promises to offer many HRM-centric opportunities to fortify the information security architecture if used strategically and intelligently. The HR-in-the-loop model can ensure that the human factors are considered when designing information security solutions. By combining AI and machine learning with human expertise, this model can provide an effective and comprehensive approach to addressing insider threats.

Originality/value

The paper fills the research gap on the critical role of HR in securing and strengthening information security. It makes further contribution in identifying the limitations of HRM solutions in info security and how AI and machine learning can be leveraged to address these limitations to some extent.
Uncovering phenotypic changes of luxS‐mediated acid tolerance in Cronobacter malonaticus
Authors: Wang Yuhang , Ling Na , Li Zongyang , Cheng Bin , Nie Zhixiang , Zeng Haiyan , Ye Yingwang
Published: February 2024

Cronobacter spp. are high acid resistance pathogens classified as Class A pathogens in powdered infant formula. Herein, we investigated the function of Cronobacter luxS in acid response. Results showed that luxS significantly increased the resistance to acid, demonstrating bacterial survival, bacterial morphology and biofilm formation. Furthermore, LuxS might enhance acid response by mediating the up‐regulation of 5‐methyltetrahydropteroyltriglutamate–homocysteine S‐methyltransferase and homocysteine S‐methyltransferase and the down‐regulation of methionine adenosyltransferase in the quorum sensing pathway. Therefore, the quorum sensing pathway mediated by luxS is the key control target for Cronobacter survival in acidic environments.
Developing a clamshell thoracotomy training model to support hybrid teaching in simulation‐based education
Authors: Roche Adam F , Voborsky Miroslav , Meighan Victoria , O'Connor Gerard , Eppich Walter J , Condron Claire M
Published: February 2024

Objective

Thoracotomy is an acute, time‐sensitive procedure. Simulation‐based education provides a safe‐learning platform to learn these techniques under close supervision.

Methods

We used the spiral model and concepts of functional fidelity to guide the evolutionary design and fabrication of a hybrid thoracotomy simulator.

Results

This model simulates a clamshell thoracotomy that physically integrates with bespoke manikins and adds a high‐fidelity technical skills element to immersive team‐based simulation training.

Conclusions

We describe the creation of a thoracotomy simulation model that allows trainees to practice these techniques in a safe‐learning environment.
Red pandas with different diets and environments exhibit different gut microbial functional composition and capacity
Authors: LU Yunwei , ZHANG Liang , LIU Xu , LAN Yue , WU Lixia , WANG Jiao , WU Kongju , YANG Chaojie , LV Ruiqing , YI Dejiao , ZHUO Guifu , LI Yan , SHEN Fujun , HOU Rong , YUE Bisong , FAN Zhenxin
Published: February 2024

The red panda (Ailurus fulgens) is a distinctive mammal known for its reliance on a diet primarily consisting of bamboo. The gut microbiota and overall health of animals are strongly influenced by diets and environments. Therefore, conducting research to explore the taxonomical and functional variances within the gut microbiota of red pandas exposed to various dietary and environmental conditions could shed light on the dynamic complexities of their microbial communities. In this study, normal fecal samples were obtained from red pandas residing in captive and semi‐free environments under different dietary regimes and used for metabolomic, 16S rRNA, and metagenomic sequencing analysis, with the pandas classified into four distinct cohorts according to diet and environment. In addition, metagenomic sequencing was conducted on mucus fecal samples to elucidate potential etiological agents of disease. Results revealed an increased risk of gastrointestinal diseases in red pandas consuming bamboo shoots due to the heightened presence of pathogenic bacteria, although an increased presence of microbiota‐derived tryptophan metabolites appeared to facilitate intestinal balance. The red pandas fed bamboo leaves also exhibited a decrease in gut microbial diversity, which may be attributed to the antibacterial flavonoids and lower protein levels in leaves. Notably, red pandas residing in semi‐free environments demonstrated an enriched gut microbial diversity. Moreover, the occurrence of mucus secretion may be due to an increased presence of species associated with diarrhea and a reduced level of microbiota‐derived tryptophan metabolites. In summary, our findings substantiate the influential role of diet and environment in modulating the gut microbiota of red pandas, offering potential implications for improved captive breeding practices.
Environmental DNA metabarcoding of freshwater fish in Malaysian tropical rivers using short‐read nanopore sequencing as a potential biomonitoring tool
Authors: Munian Kaviarasu , Ramli Farah Farhana , Othman Nursyuhada , Mahyudin Nur Aina Amira , Sariyati Nur Hartini , Abdullah‐Fauzi Nurfatiha Akmal Fawwazah , Haris Hidayah , Ilham‐Norhakim Mohd Lokman , Abdul‐Latiff Muhammad Abu Bakar
Published: February 2024

The approach of combining cost‐effective nanopore sequencing and emerging environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding could prove to be a promising tool for biodiversity documentation, especially in Malaysia. Given the substantial funding constraints in recent years, especially in relation to the country's biodiversity, many researchers have been limited to conduct restricted research without extended monitoring periods, potentially hindering comprehensive surveys and could compromise the conservation efforts. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the application of eDNA metabarcoding on freshwater fish using short reads generated through nanopore sequencing. This assessment focused on species detection in three selected rivers within the Endau Rompin Landscape in Malaysia. Additionally, the study compared levels of species detection between eDNA metabarcoding and conventional sampling methods, examined the effectiveness of primer choice, and applied both metabarcoding and shotgun sequencing to the eDNA approach. We successfully identified a total of 22 and 71 species with an identification threshold of >97% and >90%, respectively, through the MinION platform. The eDNA metabarcoding approach detected over 13% more freshwater fish species than when the conventional method was used. Notably, the distinction in freshwater fish detection between eDNA primers for 12S rRNA and cytochrome oxidase I was insignificant. The cost for eDNA metabarcoding proved to be more effective compared to conventional sampling with cost reduction at 33.4%. With favourable cost‐effectiveness and increased species detection, eDNA metabarcoding could complement existing methods, enhance holistic diversity documentation for targeted habitats and facilitate effective conservation planning.
Alterations in epidermal stem cells within the pilosebaceous unit in atrophic acne scars
Authors: Kim Dong Hyo , Yoon Ji Young , Lee Jun Hyo , Suh Dae Hun
Published: February 2024

Background

Atrophic acne scarring is a common sequela of inflammatory acne, causing significant problems for affected patients. Although prolonged inflammation and subsequent aberrant tissue regeneration are considered the underlying pathogenesis, the role of epidermal stem cells, which are crucial to the regeneration of pilosebaceous units, remains unknown.

Objectives

To examine the changes occurring in epidermal stem cells in atrophic acne scars.

Methods

Changes in collagen, elastic fibre and human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐DR expression were analysed in normal skin and inflammatory acne lesions at days 1, 3 and 7 after development. The expression of epidermal stem cell markers and proliferation markers was compared between normal skin and mature atrophic acne scar tissue.

Results

In acne lesions, inflammation had invaded into pilosebaceous units over time. Their normal structure had been destructed and replaced with a reduced amount of collagen and elastic fibre. Expression of stem cell markers including CD34, p63, leucine‐rich repeat‐containing G protein‐coupled receptor (LGR)6 and LGR5, which are expressed in the interfollicular epidermis, isthmus and bulge of hair follicles, significantly decreased in atrophic acne scar tissue compared to normal skin. Epidermal proliferation was significantly reduced in scar tissue.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that as inflammatory acne lesions progress, inflammation gradually infiltrates the pilosebaceous unit and affects the resident stem cells. This disruption impedes the normal regeneration of the interfollicular epidermis and adnexal structures, resulting in atrophic acne scars.
Tempering senses of superiority: The virtue of magnanimity in democracies
Authors: Kim Juman
Published: February 2024

Recent years have witnessed growing concerns about mutual disrespect and civic enmity among democratic citizens. Ordinary people often find themselves in a particularly adversarial condition in which they shamelessly disregard their opponents and hold them in contempt, and vice versa. Each tends to assert their superiority while appearing to be impudent to one another. Instead of simply calling for mutual respect—deliberative or agonistic—this article aims to understand why people are prone to treating their opponents with disrespect in such an impassioned situation and how to temper the pleasing sense of superiority while redirecting its very motivational power toward better ends. Drawing primarily from Aristotle's Rhetoric, my account of magnanimity shows that the magnanimous can better manage to interact with their opponents, retaining their sense of superiority necessary for active political participation while at once preventing themselves from the downward spiral of the politics of impudence.