bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accelerating the variational quantum eigensolver using parallelism
Authors: Mineh Lana , Montanaro Ashley
Published: April 2023

Quantum computers are getting larger and larger, but device fidelities may not be able to keep up with the increase in qubit numbers. One way to make use of a large device that has a limited gate depth is to run many small circuits simultaneously. In this paper we detail our investigations into running circuits in parallel on the Rigetti Aspen-M-1 device. We run two-qubit circuits in parallel to solve a simple instance of the Hubbard model using the variational quantum eigensolver (VQE). We present results for running up to 33 circuits in parallel (66 qubits), showing that with the use of error mitigation techniques it is possible to make use of, and gain a real-time speedup from, parallelisation on current quantum hardware. We obtain a speedup by 18× for exploring the VQE energy landscape, and by more than 8× for running VQE optimisation.
Lithium aluminum alloy anodes in Li-ion rechargeable batteries: Past developments, recent progress, and future prospects
Authors: Zheng Tianye , Boles Steven T
Published: April 2023

Aluminum metal has long been known to function as an anode in lithium-ion batteries owing to its capacity, low potential, and effective suppression of dendrite growth. However, seemingly intrinsic degradation during cycling has made it less attractive throughout the years compared to graphitic carbon, silicon-blends, and more recently lithium metal itself. Nevertheless, with the recent unprecedented growth of the lithium-ion battery industry, this review aims to revisit aluminum as an anode material, particularly in light of important advancements in understanding the electrochemical lithium-aluminum system, as well as the growth of activity in solid-state batteries where cell designs may conveniently mitigate problems found in traditional liquid cells. Furthermore, this review culminates by highlighting several non-trivial points including: 1) Prelithiatied aluminum anodes, with β-LiAl serving as an intercalation host, can be effectively immortal, depending on formation and cycling conditions; 2) the common knowledge of aluminum having a capacity of 993 mAh g-1 is inaccurate and attributed to kinetic limitations, thus silicon and lithium should not stand alone as the only ‘high-capacity’ candidates in the roadmap for future lithium-ion cells; 3) replacement of Cu current collectors with Al-based foil anodes may simplify lithium-ion battery manufacturing and has important safety implications due to the galvanic stability of Al at high potentials vs. Li/Li+. Irrespective of the type of Li-ion device of interest, this review may be useful for those in the broader community to enhance their understanding of general alloy anode behavior, as the methodologies reported here can be extended to non-Al anodes and consequently, even to Na-ion and K-ion devices.
Selective liquid directional steering enabled by dual-scale reentrant ratchets
Authors: Sun Jing , Qin Xuezhi , Song Yuxin , Xu Zhenyu , Zhang Chao , Wang Wei , Wang Zhaokun , Wang Bin , Wang Zuankai
Published: April 2023

Achieving well-controlled directional steering of liquids is of great significance for both fundamental study and practical applications, such as microfluidics, biomedicine, and heat management. Recent advances allow liquids with different surface tensions to select their spreading directions on a same surface composed of macro ratchets with dual reentrant curvatures. Nevertheless, such intriguing directional steering function relies on 3D printed sophisticated structures and additional polishing process to eliminate the inevitable microgrooves-like surface deficiency generated from printing process, which increases the manufacturing complexity and severally hinders practical applications. Herein, we developed a simplified dual-scale structure that enables directional liquid steering via a straightforward 3D printing process without the need of any physical and chemical post-treatment. The dual-scale structure consists of macroscale tilt ratchet equipped with a reentrant tip and microscale grooves that decorated on the whole surface along a specific orientation. Distinct from conventional design requiring the elimination of microgrooves-like surface deficiency, we demonstrated that the microgrooves of dual-scale structure play a key role in delaying or promoting the local flow of liquids, tuning of which could even enable liquids select different spreading pathways. This study provides a new insight for developing surfaces with tunable multi-scale structures, and also advances our fundamental understanding of the interaction between liquid spreading dynamics and surface topography.
Cardiovascular outcomes in hepatitis C virus infected patients treated with direct acting antiviral therapy: a retrospective multi-institutional study
Authors: Wu Victor Chien-Chia , Huang Chien-Hao , Wang Chun-Li , Lin Meng-Hung , Kuo Ting-Yu , Chang Chih-Hsiang , Wu Michael , Chen Shao-Wei , Chang Shang-Hung , Chu Pao-Hsien , Wu Cheng-Shyong , Lin Yu-Sheng
Published: April 2023

Background

Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is associated with increased cardiovascular risks. We aimed to investigate the impact of direct acting antiviral (DAA) on HCV-associated cardiovascular events.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, patients with the diagnosis of chronic HCV were retrieved from multi-institutional electronic medical records, where diagnosis of HCV was based on serum HCV antibody and HCV–RNA test. The patients eligible for analysis were then separated into patients with DAA treatment and patient without DAA treatment. Primary outcomes included acute coronary syndrome, heart failure (HF), venous thromboembolism (VTE), stroke, cardiovascular death, major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE), and all-cause mortality. Outcomes developed during follow-up were compared between DAA treatment and non-DAA treatment groups.

Results

There were 41 565 patients with chronic HCV infection identified. After exclusion criteria applied, 1984 patients in the DAA treatment group and 413 patients in the non-DAA treatment group were compared for outcomes using inverse probability of treatment weighting. Compared to patients in non-DAA treatment group, patients in DAA treatment group were associated with significantly decreased HF (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.65, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.44–0.97, P = 0.035), VTE (HR: 0.19, 95% CI: 0.07–0.49, P = 0.001), MACE (HR: 0.73, 95% CI 0.59–0.92, P = 0.007), and all-cause mortality (HR: 0.50, 95% CI: 0.38–0.67, P < 0.001) at 3-year follow-up.

Conclusions

Chronic HCV patients treated with DAA experienced lower rates of cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality than those without treatment. The reduction of VTE was the most significant impact of DAA treatment among the cardiovascular outcomes.
Association Between 24-Hour Movement Behavior and Cognitive Function in Brazilian Middle-Aged and Older Adults: Findings From the ELSA-Brasil
Authors: Feter Natan , de Paula Danilo , dos Reis Rodrigo Citton P , Alvim Matos Sheila Maria , Barreto Sandhi Maria , Duncan Bruce Bartholow , Schmidt Maria Inês
Published: April 2023

Background and Objectives

The relationship between 24-hr movement behavior and specific domains of cognitive function is unclear. The purpose of this study was to identify the joint association of daily time spent in light (light-intensity physical activity [LPA]) and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), sedentary behavior (SB), and sleep with cognitive function in middle-aged and older adults.

Research Design and Methods

Cross-sectional data from Wave 3 (2017–2019) of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health were analyzed. The study included adults aged 41–84 years old. Physical activity was assessed using a waist-worn accelerometer. Cognitive function was examined using standardized tests to assess memory, language, and Trail-Making test. Global cognitive function score was calculated by averaging domain-specific scores. Compositional isotemporal substitution models were performed to identify the association between the reallocation of time spent in LPA, MVPA, sleep, and SB with cognitive function.

Results

Participants (n = 8,608) were 55.9% female (mean age 58.9 [8.6] years). Reallocating time from SB to MVPA was associated with higher cognitive function: Reallocating 15 min to MVPA by reducing 5 min from each other behavior was associated with increased odds of better cognitive function in both insufficient (<7 hr/day; odds ratio [OR]: 0.64; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.54–0.77) and sufficient (≥7 hr/day; OR: 0.62; 95% CI: 0.58–0.67) sleep groups. Among those with insufficient sleep, reallocating time to MVPA and sleep from SB was associated with higher global cognitive performance.

Discussion and Implications

Small reductions in SB and increments in MVPA were associated with higher cognitive function in middle-aged and older adults.
Locating humanity in crimes against humanity
Authors: Schwöbel-Patel Christine
Published: April 2023

Sinja Graf, The Humanity of Universal Crime: Inclusion, Inequality, and Intervention in International Political Thought (Oxford University Press 2021)
Business as unusal: a materialist critique of international criminal justice
Authors: Graf Sinja
Published: April 2023

Christine Schwöbel-Patel, Marketing Global Justice: The Political Economy of International Criminal Law (Cambridge University Press 2021)
If Your Adolescent Has Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Evans Dwight L. , Benton Tami D. , Ellison Katherine
Published: April 2023

If Your Adolescent Has Bipolar Disorder: An Essential Resource for Parents provides a definitive guide to understanding and getting effective help for adolescents with bipolar disorder. The guide is primarily designed for parents and other adults in contact with teenagers with bipolar disorder. Most current scientific expertise available today has been combined with no-nonsense, hands-on advice from parents who have faced their children’s bipolar disorder. The scientific expertise ranges between the newest treatments and medications and the latest research findings on bipolar disorder. If Your Adolescent Has Bipolar Disorder aims to provide information and tools parents need to aid teenagers to achieve the best possible outcome in coping with their condition.
Introduction
Authors: Evans Dwight L. , Benton Tami D. , Ellison Katherine
Published: April 2023

This chapter introduces the concept of bipolar disorder found in adolescents. It defines bipolar disorder as a mood disorder of a potentially harmful variety of ordinary course of shifting attitudes and behavior. The disorder mostly consists of some degree of mania and alternates with cycles of depression or pervasive sadness. The chapter cites the increased demand for mental health care professionals, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic triggered traumas, frustrations, and social isolation. It suggests parents seek help with professional diagnosis and treatment if their child is suspected to have bipolar disorder. After all, bipolar disorder could potentially get worse when left undiagnosed and untreated.
Helping at Home
Authors: Evans Dwight L. , Benton Tami D. , Ellison Katherine
Published: April 2023

This chapter cites the difference that care at home can make for children recovering from bipolar disorder. It covers the risk factors and protective factors that contribute and defend to the course of bipolar disorder. According to some scientists, the relationship, behavior, serenity, and structure of a home and family could enormously influence the child’s mental health. While medication and psychotherapy can often help children through their condition, support at home can do much more, especially under the consideration of peace, sleep, predictability, and strength. The chapter highlights the importance of availability and communication. It also tackles the mood-lifting benefits of exercise.
Finding a Provider
Authors: Evans Dwight L. , Rynn Moira A. , Ellison Katherine
Published: April 2023

This chapter tackles the importance of finding a provider. It acknowledges that US mental health care is underutilized due to the lack of identification of these illnesses, affordable treatments, insurance coverage, and available providers. Most of the hardships in acquiring mental health care correlate to their disproportionately affecting people of color and families with low incomes and the lingering stigma both within their communities and within the medical system. Some of the suggestions for finding care for children include checking national referral services, consulting with primary care provider, and establishing a relationship the adolescent’s behavioral health provider. The chapter explains the trend of digital care and telepsychiatry following the COVID-19 pandemic. It looks into the options of health insurance and parity since mental health care can be costly.
The Backbone of Treatment: Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
Authors: Falk Avital , Bennett Shannon , Rozenman Michelle , Mohatt Justin , Bergman R. Lindsey
Published: April 2023

“The Backbone of Treatment: Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)” details the core, most important treatment ingredient in reducing compulsions and improving functioning. This chapter provides practical skills and clinical examples to guide clinicians on how to use and apply ERP. By practicing ERP with patients, first in session and then generalizing to daily life with at-home practice, anxiety or discomfort may increase. However, with repeated practice over time, anxiety and distress will decrease and/or the patient will learn the critical skill of tolerating the anxiety or discomfort. The repeated practice of exposure is key to success, and intensive treatment builds in the opportunity for frequent and guided ERP. The intensive treatment model allows patients to engage in ERP for multiple hours a day and/or multiple times a week with a therapist. This chapter provides practice advice, guidance, and troubleshooting on how to use ERP in an intensive treatment model.
Cognitive Skills in Intensive Treatment
Authors: Falk Avital , Bennett Shannon , Rozenman Michelle , Mohatt Justin , Bergman R. Lindsey
Published: April 2023

“Cognitive Skills” provides practical guidelines for implementing cognitive restructuring and cognitive coping in an intensive treatment model. Learning how to shift cognitions to more realistic thought patterns is a central component of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This chapter provides clinical examples and tools for application of cognitive skills; however, while cognitive work is a core element of CBT, intensive treatment does not rely on a significant increase in cognitive practice. The additional hours per week should be spent focused on exposure and response prevention (ERP), and cognitive skills can support this work.
Scalp Blocks
Authors: Formanek Arthur
Published: April 2023

Scalp blocks have multiple indications, including acute and chronic pain. It is also used to treat some types of headaches. These blocks are especially useful in cases of craniotomies in general and awake craniotomies in particular. They are invaluable especially when combined with sphenopalatine ganglion blocks, as the latter blocks the pain sensations from the dura as well. This facilitates the intraoperative neurological monitoring of the awake patient without administration of excessive mind-altering medications. To perform a scalp block, a total of six nerves are blocked bilaterally. While unilateral scalp block is theoretically possible, it is usually insufficient because of the need for Mayfield pinning. Values of a scalp block include hemodynamic stability after pinning, skin incision, and closure, as well as reduction of pain and opioid consumption in the early postoperative period. Complications from scalp block are rare, but it can be difficult to differentiate them from the neurological complications related to the disease or surgery. Potential complications include seizures from local anesthetic toxicity, trigeminal cardiac reflex activation, or the development of temporary fascial palsy after auriculotemporal injection. Local anesthetic toxicity is always a risk due to the high vascularity of the scalp, and the concomitant injection by the surgeon of epinephrine-containing local anesthetics.
Inguinal Hernia Repair
Authors: Blankenship Derek , Cahan Mitchell , Angaramo Gustavo
Published: April 2023

Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair originated in the early 1990s. Surgical repair of these hernias is one of the most performed surgical procedures in the world. In the United States, approximately 800,000 inguinal herniorrhaphies are performed annually. High recurrence rates, morbidity, and prolonged recovery have led to a gradual evolution in the way surgeons approach the problem of inguinal hernia repair. This chapter will highlight the technical details, pitfalls, and literature results of tension-free prosthetic repairs and tissue-suture repairs. In addition, the chapter will take an in-depth look at groin anatomy related to inguinal hernia repair, preemptive measures such as peri- and postoperative gabapentinoids, infiltration of local anesthetics, and how therapeutic ultrasound-guided nerve blocks can decrease the inflammatory cascade, lessen central sensitization, and halt the development of chronic postsurgical pain (CPSP).
Hand Injury and Digit Reimplantation
Authors: Matos Jennifer , Wilson Sylvia H.
Published: April 2023

Hand trauma can have devastating long-term consequences on a patient’s quality of life as well as their ability to care for themselves and their family. This is especially true when upper extremity trauma is combined with digit amputation. Although acute operative management will minimize the tissue’s ischemic time, anesthetic management may also impact graft survival. Perineural brachial plexus catheters may also improve patient outcomes through sympathetic blockade, resulting in vasodilation and improved graft perfusion. Regional anesthesia may provide further benefits by reducing the risk of chronic postsurgical pain. Conversely, compartment syndrome is a significant risk for patients with forearm trauma. While regional anesthesia techniques have not been shown to mask compartment syndrome, vigilance by all medical team members and constant communication are essential for early detection to decrease morbidity and mortality.
Regional Anesthesia for Bunionectomy
Authors: Abraham Daniel
Published: April 2023

A hallux valgus deformity, or a bunion, is a relatively common and painful condition that involves the big toe. It is easily diagnosed and initially treated with conservative measures. Subsequent steps involve surgical correction in the operating room. While a number of anesthetic options exist for this surgery, this chapter highlights the use of regional anesthesia for a bunionectomy. The use of peripheral nerve blocks at the level of the lateral and medial malleoli, also known as an ankle block, can be performed using a landmark approach and/or with ultrasound guidance. Additional blocks can be performed distally, and the level of the forefoot. The chapter discusses bunion diagnosis, treatment, surgical, and anesthetic management.
Double joystick technique – a modified method facilitates operation of Gartlend type-Ⅲ supracondylar humeral fractures in children
Authors: Li Guangyao , Cheng Xiqing , Zhang Jingye , Sun Yun , Cao Zhiyuan , Liu Yourao
Published: April 2023

Gartland type-Ⅲ supracondylar humerus fracture (SCHF) is a severe lesion with the feature of difficult reduction. Due to the high failure rate of traditional reduction, a more practical and safer method is needed. This retrospective study aimed to explore the effectiveness of the double joystick technique during the closed reduction of children with type-III fractures. Forty-one children with Gartland type-Ⅲ SCHF underwent closed reduction and percutaneous fixation using the double joystick technique at our hospital between June 2020 and June 2022, and 36 (87.80%) patients were successfully followed up. The affected elbow was evaluated by the joint motion, radiographs, and Flynn’s criteria then contrasted with the contralateral elbow at the last follow-up. A group of 29 boys and seven girls with an average age of 6.33 ± 2.68 years. The mean time of surgery and hospital stay was 26.61 ± 7.51 min and 4.64 ± 1.23 days, respectively. After a mean follow-up of 12.85 months, the average Baumann angle was 73.43 ± 3.78°, although the average carrying angle (11.33 ± 2.17°), flexion angle (143.03 ± 5.15°), and extension angle (0.89 ± 3.23°) of the affected elbow were less than those of the contralateral elbow (P < 0.05), the mean range of motion difference between two sides is only 3.39 ± 1.59°, with no complications. Furthermore, 100% of patients recovered satisfactorily, with excellent outcomes (91.67%) and good outcomes (8.33%). The double joystick technique is a safe and effective method that facilitates the closed reduction of Gartland type-Ⅲ SCHF in children without raising the risk of complications.
Multidisciplinary care for patients with HCC: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Seif El Dahan Karim , Reczek Annika , Daher Darine , Rich Nicole E. , Yang Ju Dong , Hsiehchen David , Zhu Hao , Patel Madhukar S. , Bayona Molano Maria del Pilar , Sanford Nina , Gopal Purva , Parikh Neehar D. , Yopp Adam C. , Singal Amit G.
Published: April 2023

Background:

Given the complexity of managing HCC, professional society guidelines advocate multidisciplinary care (MDC) for patients with HCC. However, implementation of MDC programs requires a significant investment of time and resources. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to enumerate potential benefits of MDC for patients with HCC.

Methods:

We conducted a search of the PubMed/MEDLINE and EMBASE databases and national conference abstracts to identify studies published after January 2005 that reported early-stage presentation, treatment receipt, or overall survival among patients with HCC, stratified by MDC status. We calculated pooled risk ratios and HRs for clinical outcomes according to MDC receipt using the DerSimonian and Laird method for random effects models.

Results:

We identified 12 studies (n = 15,365 patients with HCC) with outcomes stratified by MDC status. MDC was associated with improved overall survival (HR = 0.63, 95% CI: 0.45–0.88); however, its association with curative treatment receipt was not statistically significant (risk ratio = 1.60, 95% CI: 0.89–2.89) and pooled estimates were limited by high heterogeneity (I
2 > 90% for both). Studies (n = 3) were discordant regarding an association between MDC and time-to-treatment initiation. MDC was associated with early-stage HCC (risk ratio = 1.60, 95% CI: 1.12–2.29), suggesting possible referral bias contributing to improved outcomes. Limitations of studies also included risk of residual confounding, loss to follow-up, and data preceding the availability of immune checkpoint inhibitors.

Conclusion:

MDC for patients with HCC is associated with improved overall survival, underscoring the likely benefit of managing patients with HCC in a multidisciplinary care setting.
Estimating Changes in Glomerular Filtration Rate With Fluorescein Isothiocyanate-Sinistrin During Renal Replacement Therapy
Authors: Chan Goldia , Pino Christopher J. , Johnston Kimberly A. , Humes H. David
Published: April 2023

Excreted exclusively by the kidneys, fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-sinistrin can be used to measure glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and is detectable transdermally. Determination of changes in native kidney GFR (NK-GFR) in patients with acute kidney injury, particularly during continuous renal replacement therapy, improves clinical decision-making capability. To test feasibility of measuring changes in NK-GFR during CRRT with FITC-sinistrin, in vitro circuits (n = 2) were utilized to simultaneously clear FITC-sinistrin by removal of ultrafiltrate at varying rates, simulating kidney function, and by dialysis at a constant rate. Clearance calculated by fluorescence-measuring devices on the circuit showed good agreement with clearance calculated from assay of fluid samples (R
2 = 0.949). In vivo feasibility was studied by dialyzing anesthetized pigs (n = 3) and measuring FITC-sinistrin clearance during progression from normal, to unilaterally, then bilaterally nephrectomized. FITC-sinistrin clearance was reduced in vitro, when ultrafiltrate was decreased or with successive nephrectomies in vivo. Transdermal readers showed 100% sensitivity in detecting a decrease in NK-GFR in pigs with a bias of 6.5 ± 13.4% between transdermal-derived GFR (tGFR) and plasma-measured methods determining proportional changes in clearance. Clearance of FITC-sinistrin by dialysis remained consistent. In patients receiving a constant dialysis prescription, transdermal measurement of FITC-sinistrin can detect relative changes in NK-GFR.
INTRODUCTION OF BREAST IMPLANTS THROUGH THE ABDOMINAL ROUTE - ANALYSIS OF A COHORT
Authors: Álvarez-Trejo Héctor , Dorado-Hernández Emmanuel , Jimenez-Pavón Karla Elizabeth , Cuevas-Gutierrez Rubén , Romero-Algara Enrique , Rodríguez-García Francisco , Torres-Salazar Quitzia Libertad
Published: April 2023

Background:

Simultaneous breast reshaping and abdominoplasty offer patients the opportunity to undergo body reshaping in a single surgical time (one anesthesia, one incision). In Latin America, abdominal implant placement is a minimally used technique, probably because there is little evidence about its efficacy and safety. Our study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of implant placement through the abdominal route.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort was analyzed, including 350 records of patients who underwent abdominal breast implants from 2013 to 2021 with a minimum follow-up of one year. The procedure was performed under epidural anesthesia.

Results:

No intraoperative complications were reported. After a minimum of 12-month follow-up, complications were detected in 5% of the cases; the most frequent was asymmetry (4.6%), followed by abdominal migration and one case of symmastia. During the follow-up period, no capsular contracture was detected in any case. A satisfaction percentage of 98.1% was obtained. The only independent factor associated with complication was a distance from the sternal notch to the (nipple-areola complex) NAC > 21.

Conclusions:

In this case series, mammoplasty with abdominal implant placement was an effective and safe procedure, with reduced risk of infection or capsular contracture, and no scarring in or near the breasts, for patients with properly selected comorbidities.

LEVEL EVIDENCE:

III
Forecasting Blood Supply in Chinese Major Cities by Fractional Grey Prediction Model and Linear Regression Model
Authors: Lin Feng , He Xu , Zhang Huifang , Liu Zhong , Huang Yi
Published: April 2023

Background and Objectives

The aim of this study is to predict the quantity of blood donations in major Chinese cities from 2023 to 2026. Blood is a scarce and perishable resource, and its availability in a particular area depends on the amount of blood donated in that area. Therefore, it is essential for healthcare providers and policymakers to have accurate predictions of future blood donation quantities in order to plan for transfusion treatments and operations. This study aims to provide insights into the future blood supply and allocation in major Chinese cities.

Methods

We used a combination of linear regression and fractional grey prediction models to predict blood donation quantities in major Chinese cities from 2023 to 2026. The models were developed based on historical data of blood donation quantity, resident population, and gross domestic production. We compared the predicted values from the models to cross-check the consistency of the predictions. When they were not consistent, the predictions based on the recent historical data were chosen. We cross-checked the predictions with historical data to assess their accuracy.

Results

We found that the predicted future donation quantity in major Chinese cities from 2023 to 2026 would be around 20 ± 3U per 1000 persons, and the models suggested that these predictions were credible in at least half of the cities examined. We also observed a slightly larger differential order of the grey prediction model in the cities of northeast China compared to the rest of the cities. Furthermore, we found that the reliability of the predictions varied, with over half of the cities showing consistent predictions and others showing inconsistent or unreliable results.

Conclusion

Our findings provide important insights for healthcare providers and policymakers to plan for blood supply and allocation in the future. However, the reliability of the predictions varied, indicating the need for updating historical data to improve the accuracy and reliability of prediction models. We also find that in northeast of China, the blood donation quantity might be bias from 20U per 1000 persons after 2026, according to the differential order of the fractional grey prediction model. Overall, our study highlights the importance of accurate predictions of blood donation quantities for effective healthcare planning and resource allocation.
How pop-ups drive online sales: moderating effects of online promotions
Authors: Liu Yahui , Zheng Hualu , Yang Shuai , Wang Junjie
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine how the effect of pop-ups on an omnichannel brand’s subsequent online sales is moderated by the brand’s online price and premium promotions, paid search and popularity signaling.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a difference-in-differences approach, this study appraises variations in two similar Chinese apparel brands’ online sales before and after one of the brands’ implementations of its pop-ups and how the brand’s online promotions modify the pop-ups’ effect.

Findings

Unique, interactive pop-ups boost brands’ subsequent online sales. Online price promotions negatively moderate the effect; online premium promotions and paid search positively moderate it. Moreover, the product’s popularity diminishes the extent to which a pop-up stimulates online demand. These findings can be partially generalized to other categories, such as utilitarian products.

Practical implications

Only certain online strategies enhance the effect of pop-ups on brands’ online sales, so practitioners should strategically select appropriate promotion combinations when they operate pop-ups and allocate resources across channels. In addition, the moderating influence of online promotions on pop-ups depends on the type of product being promoted.

Originality/value

Pop-ups offer proven abilities to deliver sensory experiences to online shoppers, reinforce brand awareness and loyalty and boost online sales. This study extends prior research by examining how various online promotions moderate pop-ups’ effects.
Understanding intention of Gen Z Indians to visit heritage sites by applying extended theory of planned behaviour: a sustainable approach
Authors: Sujood  , Siddiqui Samiha , Bano Naseem , Al Rousan Ramzi
Published: April 2023

Purpose

In 2019, Generation Z (Gen Z) accounted for 32% of the world population, as per the report by Bloomberg, Gen Z in India is world's largest with 472 million people, still there is very limited research conducted to explain their intention to visit heritage sites. This paper aims to report the findings of an empirical research focussing on Gen Z Indians' intention to visit heritage sites by applying theory of planned behaviour (TPB) with two additional constructs, i.e. environmental concern (EC) and environmental friendly activities (EFA).

Design/methodology/approach

As a fundamental theoretical framework, the TPB model is used. Data consists of responses of 434 Gen Z Indians which were collected through online questionnaires. Using structural equation modelling (SEM) technique, the measurement and structural model were tested with the help of AMOS 22 and SPSS 25 software.

Findings

The results of SEM indicate that the hypothesized relationships between attitude (AT), subjective norms (SN), EC, EFA and intention to visit heritage sites were all supported. However, perceived behavioural control (PBC) did not influence intention.

Research limitations/implications

The study's findings have substantial practical implications for organizations/travel companies that primarily deal in heritage sites. The findings of this study contribute to the body of knowledge about intention to visit heritage sites. As the study focuses mostly on Gene Z Indians, it is difficult to extrapolate the findings to other countries.

Originality/value

This paper will help the researchers and practitioners to understand the Gen Z Indians' intention of visiting heritage sites. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first study that predicts intention of Gen Z Indians to visit heritage sites.
Community living older adults’ appraisal of future health and care needs: a cross-sectional study
Authors: van het Bolscher-Niehuis Marian , Jansen-Kosterink Stephanie , Vollenbroek-Hutten Miriam
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Efficacious self-management at older ages requires the ability to make an accurate appraisal of one’s current and future health situation. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to explore how community living older adults, with different self-perceived health status, appraise their future health status and their future health-care and housing needs.

Design/methodology/approach

The study population, 555 community living older adults, aged 65–75, completed a questionnaire for self-screening of their general health status.

Findings

The results show that over 70% of the older adults, even many of those who perceive their own health status to be “poor” or “fair” and those who are “frail”, do not expect deterioration in their physical or mental health nor extra health-care or housing needs within the next half year. In addition, a substantial part of the respondents, particularly those who perceive their general health as less favourable, tend to have a “wait-and-see” attitude and want to live their life day-to-day.

Practical implications

Community living older adults may not always be able or motivated to monitor their own health condition and prepare themselves for changing needs. Supporting older adults by motivating and teaching them to monitor their condition and overcome barriers to engage in pro-active coping can help older adults to manage the negative consequences of ageing while they have still sufficient resources available.

Originality/value

The findings of this study can help health-care professionals to tailor the support of older adults’ self-management.
Characterization, identification and life prediction of acoustic emission signals of tensile damage for HSR gearbox housing material
Authors: Yibo Ai , Yuanyuan Zhang , Hao Cui , Weidong Zhang
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This study aims to ensure the operation safety of high speed trains, it is necessary to carry out nondestructive monitoring of the tensile damage of the gearbox housing material in rail time, yet the traditional tests of mechanical property can hardly meet this requirement.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study the acoustic emission (AE) technology is applied in the tensile tests of the gearbox housing material of an high-speed rail (HSR) train, during which the acoustic signatures are acquired for parameter analysis. Afterward, the support vector machine (SVM) classifier is introduced to identify and classify the characteristic parameters extracted, on which basis the SVM is improved and the weighted support vector machine (WSVM) method is applied to effectively reduce the misidentification of the SVM classifier. Through the study of the law of relations between the characteristic values and the tensile life, a degradation model of the gearbox housing material amid tensile is built.

Findings

The results show that the growth rate of the logarithmic hit count of AE signals and that of logarithmic amplitude can well characterize the stage of the material tensile process, and the WSVM method can improve the classification accuracy of the imbalanced data to above 94%. The degradation model built can identify the damage occurred to the HSR gearbox housing material amid the tensile process and predict the service life remains.

Originality/value

The results of this study provide new concepts for the life prediction of tensile samples, and more further tests should be conducted to verify the conclusion of this research.
Impact of the type of cooker‐stretcher on chemical, rheological and microstructural properties of low‐moisture mozzarella cheese analogue
Authors: Masotti Fabio , Cattaneo Stefano , Stuknytė Milda , Ribolzi Luca Aldo , De Noni Ivano
Published: April 2023

In this work, we carried out the curd plasticisation of part‐skim low‐moisture Mozzarella cheese analogue (LMMCA) through a continuous dipping‐arms cooker‐stretcher or a batch twin‐screw extruder. The chemical composition of LMMCA samples obtained with the two machines was not statistically significant. During refrigerated storage (8°C), samples processed with the cooker‐stretcher showed higher hardness values and were slightly less proteolysed. Hydrolysis of para‐casein proceeded at the same rate in LMMCA samples made with the two systems. We observed similar microstructures by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Under adopted processing conditions, both treatments allowed to obtain LMMCA samples with stable hardness values up to 50 days.
What roles matter? An explorative study on bullying and cyberbullying by using the eye‐tracker
Authors: Menabò Laura , Skrzypiec Grace , Slee Phillip , Guarini Annalisa
Published: April 2023

Background

Bullying and cyberbullying are serious public health concerns that involve more roles beyond the bully and the victim (pro‐bullies, defenders, bystanders). However, students often perceive the phenomena as dyadic.

Aim

The purpose was to examine students' perceptions of different roles when observing bullying and cyberbullying scenes combining implicit (attention by using the eye‐tracker) and explicit (verbal reports) measures.

Sample

We included 50 Italian students (aged 10–11).

Methods

Students watched 12 drawings of different types of bullying and cyberbullying while their gaze was tracked, and subsequently described each drawing verbally. We ran repeated measure ANOVAs to compare attentional indexes (fixation count, visit count and total fixation duration) in observing roles and Cochran's Q test to evaluate differences in the verbal identification of roles.

Results

Overall, the victim and bully were the most observed and identified roles in every type of bullying and cyberbullying scenario. Concerning the other roles, a discrepancy was observed between the implicit and explicit measures since although it was greatly identified, the pro‐bully received less attention, and while the bystander received great attention, it was mentioned less. Finally, the defender was more observed and identified in physical bullying and cyberbullying.

Conclusions

Our study points out for the first time the dyadic perception of the phenomena among adolescents using implicit and explicit measures and sheds light on differences among the roles in different forms of bullying. Further research including the eye‐tracker would be worthwhile given the possibility of exploring the phenomena from different perspectives.
Clinical and radiographic peri‐implant tissue changes for implants restored with convex or concave abutment shapes: A 3‐year randomized controlled trial
Authors: Koutouzis Theofilos , Ali Abdulaziz , AlRubaie Mohammed
Published: April 2023

Objectives

The aim was to evaluate peri‐implant tissue levels over a 3‐year period for implants connected to either convex or concave final abutments at the time of implant placement.

Materials and Methods

In this randomized, double‐masked, controlled clinical study, 28 patients with one missing maxillary premolar were assigned to receive one single implant with a permanent abutment of either convex (CONVEX Group) or concave (CONCAVE Group) emergence shape at the time of implant placement. Clinical and radiographic data were collected at the time of implant placement (IP), final prosthesis delivery (PR), 12 months (FU‐1), and 36 months (FU‐3) following implant placement.

Results

At the FU‐3 13 patients were available from the CONCAVE Group (n = 13) and eleven from the CONVEX Group (n = 11). The mean change in buccal peri‐implant mucosa position (MP) from IP to FU‐3 was −0.54 ± 0.93 mm for the CONVEX Group and − 0.53 ± 0.87 mm for CONCAVE Group (p = .98). The amount of bone remodeling above the implant platform from IP to FU‐3 was −0.69 ± 0.48 mm for the CONVEX Group and −0.16 ± 0.22 mm for the CONCAVE Group (p = .005).

Conclusion

The study failed to support the hypothesis that abutment macro‐design has an effect on buccal peri‐implant mucosa margin position over time.
The evolution of the Swedish market model
Authors: Sanandaji Nima , Ström Viktor , Esmaeilzadeh Mouna , Esmaeilzadeh Saeid
Published: April 2023

Sweden historically pioneered many aspects of a modern market economy, hosting the first known share company, the first European credit notes, and the first central bank. Anders Chydenius's booklet Den nationella vinsten (The National Gain) was printed in 1765, 11 years before Adam Smith's The Wealth of Nations. Sweden was early in extending to women the rights to pursue professions and own businesses. Today, Sweden and its Nordic neighbours evince an unusual combination of high taxes and some of the freest economies in the world. Another characteristic feature is long‐standing trust, which facilitates investment and cooperation. It also allows for decentralised decision‐making, a characteristic feature of Nordic business management. Sweden's unusual high‐trust culture significantly affects economic activity.
An orthodontic tooth brushing technique to enhance oral hygiene in patients wearing fixed orthodontic appliances: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mei Li , Kang Austin , Jin Carrol , Farella Mauro
Published: April 2023

Background

An effective tooth brushing technique is essential in maintaining oral hygiene, especially for patients wearing fixed orthodontic appliances. Traditional tooth brushing techniques are mainly designed for the general population without orthodontic appliances, which may not account for the oral condition of orthodontic patients due to the increased biofilm formation. The aim of this study was to design an orthodontic tooth brushing technique and compare its effectiveness with the traditional modified Bass technique.

Methods

Sixty patients wearing fixed orthodontic appliances were included in this two‐arm paralleling randomized controlled trial. Thirty patients were assigned to the modified Bass technique group and 30 patients were assigned to the orthodontic tooth brushing technique group. The orthodontic tooth brushing technique involved a biting motion on the head of toothbrush in order to place the toothbrush bristles behind the archwires and around the brackets. Plaque index (PI) and gingival index (GI) were used to assess oral hygiene. Outcome measurements were taken at baseline and 1 month after the intervention.

Results

The new orthodontic tooth brushing technique significantly reduced PI (average PI reduction = 0.42 ± 0.13), especially in the gingival (0.53 ± 0.15) and interproximal (0.52 ± 0.18) areas (p < 0.05 for all). No significant reduction was found for the GI (p > 0.05 for all).

Conclusion

The new orthodontic tooth brushing technique showed a promising result in reducing PI in patients wearing fixed orthodontic appliances.
A rapid and flexible microneutralization assay for serological assessment of influenza viruses
Authors: Rumfelt Kalee E. , Fitzsimmons William J. , Truscon Rachel , Monto Arnold S. , Martin Emily T. , Lauring Adam S.
Published: April 2023

Background

Serological responses from influenza vaccination or infection are typically measured by hemagglutinin inhibition (HAI) or microneutralization (MN). Both methods are limited in feasibility, standardization, and generalizability to recent strains. We developed a luciferase MN (LMN) assay that combines the advantages of the conventional MN assay with the ease of the HAI assay.

Methods

Sera were obtained from the HIVE study, a Michigan household cohort. Reverse genetics was used to generate recombinant influenza viruses expressing the hemagglutinin and neuraminidase of test strains, all other viral proteins from an A/WSN/1933 backbone, and a NanoLuc reporter. Serum neutralization of luciferase‐expressing targets was quantified as a reduction in light emission from infected cells. Neutralization titers were measured for cell‐ and egg‐adapted versions of A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 and A/Singapore/INFIMH‐16‐0019/2016 and compared to HAI titers against egg‐grown antigens.

Results

Three hundred thirty‐three sera were collected from 259 participants between May 2016 and July 2018. Sampled participants were 7–68 years of age, and >80% were vaccinated against influenza. HAI and LMN titers were correlated for A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 (ρ = 0.52, p ≤ 0.01) and A/Singapore/INFIMH‐16‐0019/2016 (ρ = 0.79, p ≤ 0.01). LMN titers were lower for cell strains compared to egg strains (A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 mean log2 fold change = −2.66, p ≤ 0.01 and A/Singapore/INFIMH‐16‐0019/2016 mean log2 fold change = −3.15, p ≤ 0.01).

Conclusions

The LMN assay was feasible using limited sample volumes and able to differentiate small antigenic differences between egg‐adapted and cell‐derived strains. The correspondence of these results with the commonly used HAI confirms the utility of this assay for high‐throughput studies of correlates of protection and vaccine response.
UPPER GASTROINTESTINAL ENDOSCOPY IN OCTOGENARIANS
Authors: Safe A F , Owens D
Published: April 2023

A retrospective study of upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (GIE) in 217 octogenarians performed over a two‐year period in a district general hospital was carried out. It showed that upper GIE in octogenarians is as safe and easy as in other age groups, and provides more useful information. Patients were referred mainly by the geriatricians for elective endoscopy, reflecting the growing recognition of the value of elective upper GIE in the very elderly.

The incidence of peptic ulcer disease as a cause of upper GI bleeding was much less than previously reported. Thirty‐nine patients with upper GI haemorrhage had an endoscopy within 24 hours. We believe that this helps to identify patients with a high risk of mortality and those who might benefit from early surgery. Eighty per cent of the patients had one or more associated diseases, but there were no complications from endoscopy. We would like to emphasise that there is no contraindication for upper GIE in very elderly patients.
MALIGNANT MELANOMA — A REVIEW: EARLY DIAGNOSIS IS THE KEY
Authors: Higgins E , du Vivier A
Published: April 2023

The face of malignant melanoma is changing. The incidence is rising, and the disease is tending to affect a younger age group. Publicity about the disease is intense, and the trend is towards earlier diagnosis. Early diagnosis is essential, as the only effective treatment remains surgical excision, which is curative for thin lesions.
A CASE OF SYNCHRONOUS BILATERAL SEPARATE PRIMARY MALE BREAST CARCINOMAS
Authors: Deacock S J , Ohri S K
Published: April 2023

Breast carcinoma in the male is uncommon, but to find a case of bilateral synchronous primary separate carcinomas is extremely rare. We report on the management of such a case, illustrating current concepts in therapy. This case highlights the fact that, as in the female, bilateral breast carcinomas can occur in the male and the attending surgeon should remain vigilant at all times when treating unilateral disease.