bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EIGER2 hybrid-photon-counting X-ray detectors for advanced synchrotron diffraction experiments
Authors: Donath Tilman , Šišak Jung Dubravka , Burian Max , Radicci Valeria , Zambon Pietro , Fitch Andrew N. , Dejoie Catherine , Zhang Bingbing , Ruat Marie , Hanfland Michael , Kewish Cameron M. , van Riessen Grant A. , Naumenko Denys , Amenitsch Heinz , Bourenkov Gleb , Bricogne Gerard , Chari Ashwin , Schulze-Briese Clemens
Published: June 2023

The ability to utilize a hybrid-photon-counting detector to its full potential can significantly influence data quality, data collection speed, as well as development of elaborate data acquisition schemes. This paper facilitates the optimal use of EIGER2 detectors by providing theory and practical advice on (i) the relation between detector design, technical specifications and operating modes, (ii) the use of corrections and calibrations, and (iii) new acquisition features: a double-gating mode, 8-bit readout mode for increasing temporal resolution, and lines region-of-interest readout mode for frame rates up to 98 kHz. Examples of the implementation and application of EIGER2 at several synchrotron sources (ESRF, PETRA III/DESY, ELETTRA, AS/ANSTO) are presented: high accuracy of high-throughput data in serial crystallography using hard X-rays; suppressing higher harmonics of undulator radiation, improving peak shapes, increasing data collection speed in powder X-ray diffraction; faster ptychography scans; and cleaner and faster pump-and-probe experiments.
Boron–π interactions in two 3-(dihydroxyboryl)anilinium salts analyzed by crystallographic studies and supported by the noncovalent interactions (NCI) index theoretical approach
Authors: Rivera-Segura Jacobo , Barba Victor , Hernandez-Ahuactzi Iran F. , Tlahuext Hugo
Published: June 2023

In the title compounds, 3-(dihydroxyboryl)anilinium bisulfate monohydrate, C6H9BNO2
+·HSO4
−·H2O (I), and 3-(dihydroxyboryl)anilinium methyl sulfate, C6H9BNO2
+·CH3SO4
− (II), the almost planar boronic acid molecules are linked by pairs of O—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming centrosymmetric motifs that can be described by the graph-set R
2
2(8) motif. In both crystals, the B(OH)2 group acquires a syn–anti conformation (with respect to the H atoms). The presence of the hydrogen-bonding functional groups B(OH)2, NH3
+, HSO4
−, CH3SO4
− and H2O generates three-dimensional hydrogen-bonded networks, in which the bisulfate (HSO4
−) and methyl sulfate (CH3SO4
−) counter-ions act as the central building blocks within the crystal structures. Furthermore, in both structures, the packing is stabilized by weak boron–π interactions, as shown by noncovalent interactions (NCI) index calculations.
The UAM service network: multi-objective and multi-period design for UAM airports
Authors: Boo Jeongjoon , Lee Seung Yeob , Song Byung Duk
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The next generation of mobility is arising, and various challenging mobilities have entered the limelight. One of the most exciting of these is urban air mobility (UAM), and one of its challenges is constructing effective and efficient UAM service network. This study took a quantitative approach to the problem in an effort to support and facilitate the UAM service industry.

Design/methodology/approach

This study derived a multi-objective and multi-period (MOMP) location optimization model to support strategic UAM service network design. The model, based on its long-term service plan, determines where and when to open UAM airports. In addition, this study applied a modified e-constraint algorithm to derive managerial decisions on the Pareto relationship in consideration of multiple objectives and multiple periods.

Findings

Each Pareto solution represents a different UAM service network configuration. Thus, the model can analyze the trade-offs between Pareto decisions for the UAM service network. A case study of UAM service network design in South Korea demonstrates the validity of the proposed mathematical model and algorithm.

Practical implications

The design of a UAM service network should consider various aspects. Its construction and operation would require significant investments of time, capital and people, which would redound to society over a significant span of time. The results of this study provide quantitative guidelines for derivation and analysis of various UAM service network configurations in consideration of multiple objectives and multiple periods.

Originality/value

This paper proposes MOMP optimization, which approach is suitable to the fundamental characteristics of expanding UAM service networks and their design. It is expected that the present study will make significant contributions to the efforts of those deriving and analyzing future UAM service networks.
Effect of green advertising attitude on collectivist consumer behavior: an integrative approach
Authors: Lee Joseph Lok-Man , Liu Vanessa , Cheng Calvin
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Unlike traditional products and services, customer motivation to purchase green products/services may be due to non-marketing factors, such as their personal values about health. In this study, the authors aim to propose and validate an integrative model using both advertising attitude factors and health beliefs to explain purchase intention and word of mouth in the context of green marketing. The authors focus specifically on collectivist consumers as values and social norms that tend to be more salient in driving their decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

The model was tested empirically using a survey study with 308 Chinese consumers in Hong Kong. The data were analyzed using confirmatory composite analysis (CCA) and partial least squares structural equation modeling.

Findings

All health beliefs were significant predictors of green advertising attitude. Green satisfaction fully mediates the relationship between green advertising attitude and positive word of mouth for products and services with green advertising for collectivist Chinese consumers. Meanwhile, green satisfaction partially mediates the relationship between green advertising attitude and purchase intention. In addition, green brand equity partially mediates the green advertising attitude–purchase intention/positive word of mouth link.

Practical implications

The significant impacts of health belief factors on green advertising attitude present important implications to advertising managers in terms of the use of information appeal in promoting green products/services. Green brand equity should also be developed in order to optimize green advertising effectiveness, especially in the context of collectivist customers.

Originality/value

This research is one of the first few studies investigating the mediating role of green satisfaction and green brand equity for collectivist consumer behaviors based on the health belief model (HBM).
Natural convection of a reacting hybrid nanofluid in an open porous cavity bounded by vertical wavy walls
Authors: Roy Nepal Chandra , Monira Sherajum
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the natural convection characteristics of a reacting hybrid nanofluid in an open porous cavity bounded by vertical wavy walls subject to an inclined magnetic field.

Design/methodology/approach

The physical domain of the problem is constructed using coordinate transformations, and the equations are transformed accordingly. The resulting equations are then solved using finite difference method. Numerical results for the streamlines, isotherms and isoconcentration are illustrated with varying relevant parameters.

Findings

Whatever the values of parameters, streamlines have two counter-rotating cells, and their intensities are the highest near the open end. Moreover, the maximum temperature and the minimum concentration are obtained in close proximity to the open end. The strength of streamlines is increased with increasing Rayleigh number, Frank-Kamenetskii number and Darcy number, whereas it is decreased with the increment of volume fractions of nanoparticles.

Research limitations/implications

The limitations of this study are that the model is suitable for thermal equilibrium cases and constant thermo-physical properties, while the results can predict two-dimensional flow behaviors.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, there is no study on the natural convection induced by a chemical reaction in an open cavity bounded by vertical wavy walls. The findings might be used to gather knowledge about the flow, energy and reactant distributions in an open space containing a chemical reaction.
Does AIS usage matter in SMEs performance? an empirical investigation under digital transformation revolution
Authors: Al-Okaily Manaf
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to gain empirical insights into whether accounting information systems (AIS) usage matters among Jordanian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) during the period of COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

The suggested research model in the current study is based on the extending technology acceptance model (TAM) to test the antecedents’ factors that impact on AIS usage among SMEs. To test the proposed research model, partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used.

Findings

The empirical findings revealed all postulated hypotheses were accepted exceptH3. Contrary to what is expected, the empirical outcomes confirmed that perceived compatibility does not affect the perceived usefulness of AIS, and hence, the related hypothesis was rejected.

Originality/value

The results of the current research could be beneficial to a number of managers (owners) to obtain a better understanding of the benefits of AIS success usage among Jordanian SMEs performance during crises time as the COVID-19 pandemic crisis.
Leadership style as an antecedent to effective Six Sigma implementation
Authors: Bagherian Anthony , Gershon Mark , Kumar Sunil
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The effectiveness of Six Sigma programs has varied across different industries and organizations, and leadership styles have been identified as a critical success factor for the installation of Six Sigma initiatives. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the specific elements of leadership styles that are linked with the successful deployment of Six Sigma programs in the automobile industry.

Design/methodology/approach

To conduct the study, the researchers utilized a Likert scale questionnaire with a rating system of 1–7 and a simple random sampling method. The survey was distributed to 2,325 potential participants, with 573 responses received, mostly from Germany, the United Kingdom and Sweden. Out of those responses, 260 completed questionnaires were received. The study utilized a mixed-methods research design and exploratory research approaches to investigate the implication of leadership style on the success of Six Sigma implementation. The research employed several analysis techniques, including Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and Survey methods.

Findings

Through various SEM methods, such as EFA and CFA, the study revealed two vital leadership elements: (1) the long-term success of Six Sigma depends on leadership’s support and recognition of it as an improvement strategy and (2) leadership must commit to the organization’s suppliers to ensure quality and the provision of defect-free products.

Practical implications

By incorporating the identified key elements of leadership into their strategies, organizations and researchers can ensure the sustainable implementation of Six Sigma.

Originality/value

This research presents a distinct contribution to the evaluation of leadership style components within the European automotive sector, utilizing a mixed-methods research design and incorporating a variety of descriptive statistics.
Capital as the outcome of information practices: a study of devotees and monks of a Theravada Buddhist Temple
Authors: Yerbury Hilary , Olsson Michael , Perera Pethigamage
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The outcomes of information behaviours have traditionally been conceptualised as use or effects. The adoption of a sociological stance, based on a practices approach, provides the opportunity to challenge these understandings. The non-Western setting further enhances the possibilities for conceptualising the outcomes of information practices as forms of capital.

Design/methodology/approach

This ethnographic study uses a Bourdieusian approach to investigate the information practices of diasporic devotees and monks of a Theravada Buddhist Temple in Sydney, Australia. The insider position of one researcher brought strong insights into the data, while the theoretical approach shared with the other researchers reinforced an outsider perspective.

Findings

The Temple’s online sources and personal communication with other devotees provide a diverse range of sources that devotees use in information-based cultural practices and everyday life information practices. These practices lead to outcomes that can be identified as economic, social and cultural capital. Pin or merit emerges as an important outcome of practices which is not easily accommodated by the concept of outcome, nor by Bourdieu’s categories of capital.

Originality/value

Adding to the small number of studies concerned with information practices in a spiritual context, this study shows the value of a Bourdieusian approach in identifying the outcomes of information practices as capital, but highlights the shortcomings of applying Western concepts in non-Western settings. It proposes the possibility of a new form of capital, which will need to be tested rigorously in studies in other spiritual settings.
Condominiums facing delinquency: stringent remedies from a comparative perspective
Authors: Simón-Moreno Héctor
Published: June 2023

Purpose

With the aim of monitoring the existing regulations that are applicable to community of owners facing delinquency, in view of the importance of this issue for the achievement of the Urban Agenda, the present study aims to analyse the most stringent and controversial measures available for the community of owners facing delinquency from a comparative perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

The present work addresses the recent legislative amendments that have taken place at national level in this field in several countries and analyses to what extent they have addressed the delinquency problem faced by community of owners.

Findings

The current paper shows that, in the end, legal certainty, the prospective legal and economic effects on mortgage lending and constitutional concerns are the underlying reasons behind the reluctance to implement some stringent measures to face delinquency. It also shows that recent amendments concerning alternative dispute resolution mechanisms are a missed opportunity.

Social implications

Community of owners plays a key role in cities for the achievement of the Urban Agenda, so the periodical contributions from co-owners are paramount to the proper implementation of urban regeneration, energy efficiency and accessibility policies. To this end, the paper analyses existing regulations that are applicable to community of owners facing delinquency, which may increase in the coming years due to the current socioeconomic context.

Originality/value

This paper builds on existing research and goes one step further by addressing the recent legislative amendments that have taken place recently at national level in this field. These measures may serve as an inspiration to other EU legal systems.
Do fiscal rules of local debt affect municipal off-budget activities? Analysis of various types of municipalities
Authors: Białek-Jaworska Anna , Kopańska Agnieszka Krystyna
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to determine whether local governments (LGs) use non-consolidated municipally owned companies (MOCs), excluded from public sector entities and, consequently, from sub-national debt to avoid fiscal debt limits. This paper contributes to the literature by analysing the fiscal debt rule’s impact on the off-budget municipal activities in total and separate in different types of local government units.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses difference-in-differences and the system general method of moments model with the Blundell–Bond estimator for dynamic panel data analysis of MOCs owned by 866 Polish municipalities in 2010–2018.

Findings

This paper shows that the MOCs’ revenues support limited local public debt capacity by indebtedness restrictions imposed on municipalities in 2014. As a result, less indebted municipalities have higher off-budget revenues. The tightening of fiscal rules related to sub-sovereign indebtedness increased off-budget activities, but that effect is much stronger in rural and rural–urban municipalities than in urban municipalities and big cities.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the literature by exploring the fiscal debt rule’s impact on the off-budget municipal activities in total and separate in different types of local government units. In this paper, the authors combine theories relating to private and public finance; this is a novel approach and one that is also necessary – as, in fact, the worlds of public and private actors intersect – as exemplified by the existence of MOC.
Celebrity endorsement in African context: TEARS model approach
Authors: Oteh Ogbonnaya Ukeh , Oloveze Ambrose Ogbonna , Emeruem Obianuju Linda , Ahaiwe Emmanuel Onyedikachi
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Patronage of local footwear have not been encouraging in Nigeria despite recent investments. The purpose of the study is to evaluate celebrity endorsement and customer patronage of small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) products in African context, with focus on trustworthiness, expertise, attractiveness, respect and similarity (TEARS) model.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was designed as a descriptive survey. An online structured questionnaire was applied for data collection. Cronbach Alpha and content validity were used for reliability and validity, respectively. TEARS model was used to ascertain key dimensions, and Pearson correlation coefficient and logistic regression were applied into the analysis.

Findings

The findings reveal that celebrity endorsement is not associated with patronage of local footwears, though TEARS model analysis indicates the direction of consumers rating on celebrity endorsement. Factors such as recommendation and quality impact the consumer willingness to buy local footwear.

Research limitations/implications

The small sample size calls for caution in generalization.

Practical implications

The study suggests that although the TEARs model is viable, all the dimensions are mutually exclusive. However, this depends on the characteristics of the brand. In driving patronage, managers must pay attention to personal and non-personal cues such as price, quality and source of information about their brand.

Originality/value

The originality is buttressed from the value it provides for local product production and patronage. The significant factors are indicated as key to addressing low patronage.
Achieving supply chain resilience in an era of disruptions: a configuration approach of capacities and strategies
Authors: Gaudenzi Barbara , Pellegrino Roberta , Confente Ilenia
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The COVID-19 pandemic and recent disruptive events are affecting firms’ operations and supply chain networks on a large scale, causing disturbances in supply, demand, production and logistics activities. Although supply chain resilience (SCR) research has received large attention in recent years, the purpose of this paper is to offer an original contribution by exploring how complex configurations and interactions between SCR strategies and capacities can lead to resilience.

Design/methodology/approach

This study investigates the configurations of SCR strategies and capacities using a fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis.

Findings

First, the findings reveal different SCR strategy configurations through the lens of absorptive, reactive and restorative capacities to achieve resilience. Second, this study applies the contingent resource-based view (CRBV) perspective to interpret how organizations can achieve resilience before, during and after a disruptive event. Third, it offers an analysis of different groups of organizations, based on the adoption of different SCR strategies and capacities.

Originality/value

This study identifies a set of equifinal SCR strategies and capacity configurations that can be implemented to cope with a disruptive event and lead to resilience. It also enriches the research addressing the consecutive phases of SCR investments, developing the CRBV perspective. In our results, five solutions describe organizations that invest in absorptive capacities, representing an ex ante readiness.
Leveraging data-driven decisions: a framework for building intracompany capability for supply chain optimization and resilience
Authors: Chenger Denise , Pettigrew Rachael N.
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Companies are turning to big data (BD) programs to help mitigate supply chain (SC) disruptions and risks that are increasing in frequency and severity. The purpose of this paper is to explore exactly how companies translate data into meaningful information used to manage SC risk and create economic value; an area not well researched. As companies are turning to big-data programs to help mitigate supply chain (SC) disruptions and risks that are increasing in frequency and severity, having the capability to internally integrate SC information is cited as the most critical risk to manage.

Design/methodology/approach

Information processing theory and resource-based view are applied to support capability development used to make value-based BD decisions. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with leaders in both the oil and gas industry and logistics SC partners to explore each companies’ BD transformation.

Findings

Findings illuminate how companies can build internal capability to more effectively manage SC risk, optimize operating assets and drive employee engagement.

Research limitations/implications

The oil and gas industry were early adopters of gathering BD; more studies addressing how companies translate data to create value and manage SC risk would be beneficial.

Practical implications

Guidance for senior leaders to proactively introduce BD to their company through a practical framework. Further, this study provides insight into where the maximum benefit may reside, as data intersects with other company resources to build an internal capability.

Originality/value

This study presents a framework highlighting best practices for introducing BD plus creating a culture capable of using that data to reduce risk during design, implementation and ongoing operations. The steps for producing the maximum benefit are laid out in this study.
A workflow for processing mono‐channel Chirp and Boomer surveys
Authors: Vesnaver Aldo , Baradello Luca
Published: June 2023

Acquiring seismic data with multichannel, multiple‐streamer and even multi‐componentsystems at sea provides excellent images of the Earth. However, the cost and complexity of operations prevent their use in busy areas such as ports or in sensitive environments such as lagoons. In the latter cases, mono‐channel Chirp or Boomer systems are the most viable instruments for marine surveys. The lack of multiple offsets prevents the use of standard tools for amplitude‐versus‐offset and velocity analysis, which are necessary for the lithological characterization of rocks, especially for the shallow sediments in offshore engineering. In this paper, we present a few recent techniques that exploit the traveltime and amplitude of multiple reflections to compensate for the offset limitation, including a new algorithm for the joint tomographic inversion of direct arrivals, primaries and multiples. We have developed a cost‐effective workflow for mono‐channel surveys based on a data‐driven, physically consistent philosophy that attempts to approximately extract lithological parameters, such as P velocity, anelastic absorption, acoustic impedance and even density. We applied the proposed workflow to a real field experiment and obtained a semi‐quantitative estimate for shallow sediments that can be used by offshore engineers.
Gasless laparoscopy versus conventional laparoscopy and laparotomy: A systematic review on the safety and efficiency
Authors: Shoman Haitham , Sandler Simone , Peters Alexander , Farooq Ameer , Gruendl Magdalena , Trinh Shauna , Little James , Woods Alex , Bolton William , Abioye Abubakar , Ljungman David
Published: June 2023

Background

Gasless laparoscopy (GL) emerged to overcome the clinical and financial challenges of pneumoperitoneum and is often seen as a viable option for use in resource‐limited settings as a means of saving costs and resources. This study aims to systematically review the evidence available on the safety and efficiency of GL compared with conventional laparoscopy (CL) and laparotomy.

Methods

Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, Medline, Embase, Web of Science and Cochrane databases were searched. Variables of interest were determined a priori and Covidence software was used to screen studies for inclusion without demographic preference. The quality of studies was assessed using the Cochrane Risk Assessment tool.

Results

Of the 1080 studies screened, a total of 43 studies were included. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy was by far the most studied intervention in randomised studies. In these, the mean setup time for gasless and CL was 13.14 (95% CI −0.16 to 26.44) and 12.8 (95% CI −10.86 to 36.47) minutes, respectively. The mean duration of surgery for gasless and CL was 89.39 (95% CI 77.44 to 101.34) and 72.59 (95% CI 63.44 to 81.74) minutes, respectively, and the mean length of stay was 4.25 (95% CI 2.02 to 6.48) and 4.04 (95% CI 1.72 to 6.36) days, respectively. Most reported complications were haemorrhage and infection with no assessable statistical difference.

Conclusions

Although GL seems to be a feasible approach for many general surgery interventions, the observed outcomes based on safety and efficiency are not sufficient to recommend GL as an alternative to CL or laparotomy. Larger randomised trials with a low risk of bias are warranted.
Evaluation of IgG/IgE‐binding capacity and functional properties of enzymatic hydrolysis in skimmed cow milk system
Authors: Liang Xiaona , Qian Guanlin , Yang Hui , Chen Na , Ai Zhisong , Xing Yu , Huang Wei , Xu Lingfen , Li Min , Wang Zongzhou , Zheng Yan , Yue Xiqing
Published: June 2023

Cow's milk (CM) allergy is a common food allergy that seriously impacts the growth and development of infants and children. However, CM is an important source of nutrients, and few studies focus on the effects of enzymatic hydrolysis treatment on the whole skimmed CM system. In this study, the IgG/IgE‐binding and functional properties of Alcalase‐, Protamex‐, and Flavourzyme‐treated skimmed CM (AT, PT, and FT, respectively) were systematically evaluated. The results showed that the treatment groups were mainly composed of low molecular weight (MW) peptides (<3 kDa), accounting for 94.85%–97.90%. Additionally, the IgG reactivity of these peptides was significantly lower (p < 0.05) than those of higher MW peptides (10–30 kDa and >30 kDa). The IgE reactivity of FT with higher MW peptides was the lowest among these groups, with the OD value reaching 0.089. Moreover, the total amino acid content of hydrolysates of skimmed CM (HM) increased significantly (skimmed CM, 5.94 µg/mL; AT, 123.70 µg/mL; PT: 136.20 µg/mL; FT, 988.72 µg/mL) compared to that in skimmed CM. A total of 10, 10, and 7 flavor compounds were increased in AT, PT, and FT, respectively. Furthermore, the solubility, foamability, and emulsifying ability of HM were significantly improved, being 2.17‐fold, 1.52‐fold, and 1.96‐fold higher in PT than in skimmed CM. These results lay a theoretical foundation for the development of hypoallergenic dairy products.
Delta‐radiomics‐based models for toxicity prediction in radiotherapy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Tan Daryl , Mohamad Salleh Siti Athiyah , Manan Hanani Abdul , Yahya Noorazrul
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Delta‐radiomics models are potentially able to improve the treatment assessment than single‐time point features. The purpose of this study is to systematically synthesize the performance of delta‐radiomics‐based models for radiotherapy (RT)‐induced toxicity.

Methods

A literature search was performed following the PRISMA guidelines. Systematic searches were performed in PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane and Embase databases in October 2022. Retrospective and prospective studies on the delta‐radiomics model for RT‐induced toxicity were included based on predefined PICOS criteria. A random‐effect meta‐analysis of AUC was performed on the performance of delta‐radiomics models, and a comparison with non‐delta radiomics models was included.

Results

Of the 563 articles retrieved, 13 selected studies of RT‐treated patients on different types of cancer (HNC = 571, NPC = 186, NSCLC = 165, oesophagus = 106, prostate = 33, OPC = 21) were eligible for inclusion in the systematic review. Included studies show that morphological and dosimetric features may improve the predictive model performance for the selected toxicity. Four studies that reported both delta and non‐delta radiomics features with AUC were included in the meta‐analysis. The AUC random effects estimate for delta and non‐delta radiomics models were 0.80 and 0.78 with heterogeneity, I2 of 73% and 27% respectively.

Conclusion

Delta‐radiomics‐based models were found to be promising predictors of predefined end points. Future studies should consider using standardized methods and radiomics features and external validation to the reviewed delta‐radiomics model.
A systematic review and meta‐analysis of environmental factors associated with juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Zhao Wenjia , Li Caifeng , Deng Jianghong
Published: June 2023

Objectives

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common pediatric rheumatic disease, thought to be influenced by both genetics and the environment. Identifying environmental factors associated with disease risk will improve knowledge of disease mechanisms and ultimately benefit patients. This review aimed to collate and synthesize the current evidence of environmental factors associated with JIA.

Methods

MEDLINE (Ovid), EMBASE (Ovid), Cumulative Index of Nursing and Related Health Literature (EBSCOhost), science network (WOS, Clarivate Analytics), Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Chinese Biological Medical Database were systematically searched. Study quality was rated using the Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale. Pooled estimates for each environmental factor were generated using a random‐effects, inverse‐variance method, where possible. The remaining environmental factors were synthesized in narrative form.

Results

This review includes environmental factors from 23 studies (6 cohorts and 17 case‐control studies). Cesarean section delivery was associated with increased JIA risk (pooled relative risk [RR] 1.103, 95% CI 1.033‐1.177). Conversely, maternal smoking of more than 20 cigarettes/day (pooled RR 0.650, 95% CI 0.431‐0.981) and gestational smoking (pooled RR0.634, 95% CI 0.452‐0.890) were associated with decreased JIA risk.

Conclusion

This review identifies several environmental factors associated with JIA and demonstrates the huge breadth of environmental research. We also highlight the challenges of combining data collected over this period due to limited study comparability, evolution in healthcare and social practices, and changing environment, which warrant consideration when planning future studies.
Associations of methadone and buprenorphine‐naloxone doses with unregulated opioid use, treatment retention, and adverse events in prescription‐type opioid use disorders: Exploratory analyses of the OPTIMA study
Authors: Bakouni Hamzah , McAnulty Christina , Tatar Ovidiu , Socias M. Eugenia , Le Foll Bernard , Lim Ron , Ahamad Keith , Jutras‐Aswad Didier ,   for the OPTIMA Research Group within the Canadian Research Initiative in Substance Misuse
Published: June 2023

Background and Objectives

Buprenorphine/naloxone (BUP‐NX) and methadone are used to treat opioid use disorder (OUD), yet there is insufficient evidence on the impact of doses on interventions' effectiveness and safety when treating OUD attributable to other opioids than heroin.

Methods

We explored associations between methadone and BUP‐NX doses and treatment outcomes using data from OPTIMA, a 24‐week, pragmatic, open‐label, multicenter, pan‐Canadian, randomized controlled, two‐arm parallel trial with participants (N = 272) with OUD who primarily use opioids other than heroin. Participants were randomized to receive flexible take‐home BUP‐NX (n = 138) or standard supervised methadone treatment (n = 134). We examined associations between highest BUP‐NX and methadone doses, and (1) percentage of opioid‐positive urine drug screens (UDS); (2) retention in the assigned treatment; and (3) adverse events (AEs).

Results

The mean (SD) highest BUP‐NX and methadone dose were 17.31 mg/day (8.59) and 67.70 mg/day (34.70). BUP‐NX and methadone doses were not associated with opioid‐positive UDS percentages or AEs. Methadone dose was associated with higher retention in treatment (odds ratio [OR]: 1.025; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.010; 1.041), while BUP‐NX dose was not (OR: 1.055; 95% CI: 0.990; 1.124). Higher methadone doses (70–110 mg/day) offered higher odds of treatment retention.

Discussion and Conclusion

Methadone dose was associated with higher retention, which may be related to its full µ‐opioid receptor agonism. Future research should notably ascertain the effect of pace of titration on a wide range of outcomes.

Scientific Significance

Our results extend previous findings of high doses of methadone increasing retention to be applied in our population using opioids other than heroin, including highly potent opioids.
Bayesian neural tree models for nonparametric regression
Authors: Chakraborty Tanujit , Kamat Gauri , Chakraborty Ashis Kumar
Published: June 2023

Frequentist and Bayesian methods differ in many aspects but share some basic optimal properties. In real‐life prediction problems, situations exist in which a model based on one of the above paradigms is preferable depending on some subjective criteria. Nonparametric classification and regression techniques, such as decision trees and neural networks, have both frequentist (classification and regression trees (CARTs) and artificial neural networks) as well as Bayesian counterparts (Bayesian CART and Bayesian neural networks) to learning from data. In this paper, we present two hybrid models combining the Bayesian and frequentist versions of CART and neural networks, which we call the Bayesian neural tree (BNT) models. BNT models can simultaneously perform feature selection and prediction, are highly flexible, and generalise well in settings with limited training observations. We study the statistical consistency of the proposed approaches and derive the optimal value of a vital model parameter. The excellent performance of the newly proposed BNT models is shown using simulation studies. We also provide some illustrative examples using a wide variety of standard regression datasets from a public available machine learning repository to show the superiority of the proposed models in comparison to popularly used Bayesian CART and Bayesian neural network models.
Louis Pasteur—The life of a controversial scientist with a prepared mind, driven by curiosity, motivation, and competition
Authors: Brogren Carl‐Henrik
Published: June 2023

Louis Pasteur, born December 27, 1822 in Dole, France, showed in his childhood and youth great abilities as an artistic painter; however by an age of 19, his interest changed toward science, and he moved to Paris to study chemistry and physics at École Normale Supérieure. During graduation, he initiated research on chiral crystallography and stereochemistry and got his doctorates in 1847 in both chemistry and physics. In 1848, he started as high school teacher in Dijon, but shortly after he became a deputy professor at the University of Strasbourg in chemistry and got married to the rector's daughter Marie Laurent. They had five children, of which only two survived. The family moved to Lille in 1854, where he worked as professor in chemistry and became the dean at the new Faculty of Science at the University of Lille. He initiated his famous research on fermentation in 1855. Louis Pasteur moved back to École Normale Supérieure in 1857, where a major part of his innovative research on fermentation took place ending up with the development of pasteurization in 1864. Through genius experiments, he disputed the spontaneous genesis theory and founded the basis for the germ theory, later confirmed by his enemy Robert Koch and several other research teams, which he for lifetime competed with on the cure and prevention against infectious disease causes by both bacteria such as cholera, anthrax, and virus‐induced infections as yellow fever and rabies. However, most of his experiments were done on animals since Pasteur and his colleagues at École Normale Superiére were not physicians but scientists. The first successful attenuated vaccine used in humans against rabies was, when the 9‐year‐old Joseph Meister was cured or prevented from rabies in 1885 after 13 vaccine injections done by the young pediatrician Joseph Grancher. This worldwide known intervention is both world famous and ethically criticized and disputed. The Pasteur Institute was inaugurated in 1888—now an international prestigious research institute—which has been expanded since in a network of affiliated Pasteur institutes over the whole world. There were multiple links to Danish scientists of the 19th century and to the Danish brewery industry. Most well known is the strong friendship between Louis Pasteur and the Carlsberg brewery and especially to its founder Jacob Christian Jacobsen, who was a great believer on a scientific approach to a cleaner fermentation process and better beer quality. Louis Pasteur stands as a milestone example of the fruitful outcome of scientific competition and collaboration and should therefore be remembered as an inspiration for present and future scientists.
Association between misoprostol and nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug‐induced kidney injury: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Mitsuboshi Satoru , Kotake Kazumasa , Takahashi Takeru , Sato Koji , Sakamaki Toshiyuki
Published: June 2023

Aims

Misoprostol is a prostaglandin E1 analogue that is used to prevent nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID)‐induced gastrointestinal disorders. The aim of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to evaluate whether use of misoprostol also decreases the risk of NSAID‐induced kidney injury.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials that compared misoprostol vs. placebo in an adult patient population were selected. The primary outcome was kidney injury and the secondary outcome was severe adverse events. The quality of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach.

Results

Twelve studies were eligible for inclusion. Although the rates of kidney injury and severe adverse events did not differ significantly between misoprostol and placebo, a posthoc subgroup analysis that excluded studies in which different NSAIDs were used in the misoprostol and placebo groups suggested that misoprostol may reduce the risk of NSAID‐induced kidney injury (risk difference −0.09, 95% confidence interval −0.15 to −0.03, P < .01, I2 = 87%; evidence of very low certainty).

Conclusion

There is limited evidence that misoprostol reduces the risk of NSAID‐induced kidney injury. Misoprostol possibly contributes to reducing the risk of kidney injury associated with chronic NSAID use. The findings of this meta‐analysis suggest further high‐quality clinical trials are warranted.
Intersections on the road to skills’ transferability: The role of international training, gender, and visible minority status in shaping immigrant engineers’ career attainment in Canada
Authors: Konnikov Alla
Published: June 2023

This paper focuses on the engineering profession in Canada, a regulated field with a large proportion of internationally trained professionals. Using Canadian census data, this study addresses two main questions. First, I ask whether immigrant engineers who were trained abroad are at increased disadvantage in gaining access (1) to employment in general, (2) to the engineering field, and (3) to professional and managerial employment within the field. Second, I ask how immigration status and the origin of training intersect with gender and visible minority status to shape immigrant engineers’ occupational outcomes. The results reveal that immigrant engineers who were trained abroad are at increased risk of occupational mismatch and this risk is two‐fold and intersectional. First, they are at a disadvantage to enter the engineering field. Second, those employed in the engineering field are more likely to occupy technical positions. These forms of disadvantage intensify and diversify for women and racial/ethnic minority immigrants. The paper concludes with a discussion of immigrants’ skills transferability in regulated fields from an intersectional perspective.
Clinical and preclinical evaluation of miR‐144‐5p as a key target for major depressive disorder
Authors: Wu Xiaodong , Zhang Yulong , Wang Ping , Li Xiaohui , Song Zhen , Wei Chuke , Zhang Qing , Luo Bei , Liu Zhichun , Yang Yingying , Ren Zhenhua , Liu Huanzhong
Published: June 2023

Background

Neuronal abnormalities are closely associated with major depressive disorder (MDD). Available evidence suggests a role for microRNAs (miRNAs) in regulating the expression of genes involved in MDD. Hence, miRNAs that can be potential therapeutic targets need to be identified.

Methods

A mouse model of chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) was used to evaluate the function of miRNAs in MDD. miR‐144‐5p was screened from the hippocampi of CUS mice based on sequencing results. Adenovirus‐associated vectors were used to overexpress or knockdown miR‐144‐5p in mice. BpV(pic) and LY294002 were used to determine the relationship between miR‐144‐5p target genes PTEN and TLR4 in neuronal impairment caused by miR‐144‐5p deficiency. Western blotting, immunofluorescence, ELISA immunosorbent assay, and Golgi staining were used to detect neuronal abnormalities. Serum samples from healthy individuals and patients with MDD were used to detect miR‐144‐5p levels in the serum and serum exosomes using qRT‐PCR.

Results

miR‐144‐5p expression was significantly decreased within the hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG) of CUS mice. Upregulation of miR‐144‐5p in the DG ameliorated depression‐like behavior in CUS mice and attenuated neuronal abnormalities by directly targeting PTEN and TLR4 expression. Furthermore, miR‐144‐5p knockdown in normal mice led to depression‐like behavior via inducing neuronal abnormalities, including abnormal neurogenesis, neuronal apoptosis, altered synaptic plasticity, and neuroinflammation. miR‐144‐5p deficiency‐mediated neuronal impairment was mediated by PI3K/Akt/FoxO1 signaling. Furthermore, miR‐144‐5p levels were downregulated in the sera of patients with MDD and associated with depressive symptoms. Consistently, serum exosome‐derived miR‐144‐5p levels were decreased in patients with MDD.

Conclusion

miR‐144‐5p plays a vital role in regulating neuronal abnormalities in depression. Our findings provide translational evidence that miR‐144‐5p is a new potential therapeutic target for MDD.
Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation improves gait and cortical activity in Parkinson's disease: A pilot randomized study
Authors: Zhang Heng , Cao Xing‐yue , Wang Li‐na , Tong Qing , Sun Hui‐min , Gan Cai‐ting , Shan Ai‐di , Yuan Yong‐sheng , Zhang Ke‐zhong
Published: June 2023

Objective

In this randomized, double‐blind, sham‐controlled trial, we explored the effect of 20 Hz transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) on gait impairments in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients and investigated the underlying neural mechanism.

Methods

In total, 22 PD patients and 14 healthy controls were enrolled. PD patients were randomized (1:1) to receive active or sham taVNS (same position as active taVNS group but without releasing current) twice a day for 1 week. Meanwhile, all subjects were measured activation in the bilateral frontal and sensorimotor cortex during usual walking by functional near‐infrared spectroscopy.

Results

PD patients showed instable gait with insufficient range of motion during usual walking. Active taVNS improved gait characteristics including step length, stride velocity, stride length, and step length variability compared with sham taVNS after completion of the 7‐day therapy. No difference was found in the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale III, Timed Up and Go, Tinetti Balance, and Gait scores. Moreover, PD patients had higher relative change of oxyhemoglobin in the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, pre‐motor area, supplementary motor area, primary motor cortex, and primary somatosensory cortex than HCs group during usual walking. Hemodynamic responses in the left primary somatosensory cortex were significantly decreased after taVNS therapy.

Conclusion

taVNS can relieve gait impairments and remodel sensorimotor integration in PD patients.
Dynamic evolution of the anterior cingulate‐insula network during seizures
Authors: Yang Yujiao , Chen Dong , Wang Jing , Wang Jie , Yan Zhaofen , Deng Qinqin , Zhang Liping , Luan Guoming , Wang Mengyang , Li Tianfu
Published: June 2023

Objectives

In physiological situations, the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and anterior insular cortex (AIC) are prone to coactivation. The functional connectivity and interaction between ACC and AIC in the context of epilepsy remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the dynamic coupling between these two brain regions during seizures.

Methods

Patients who underwent stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG) recording were included in this study. The SEEG data were visually inspected and quantitatively analyzed. The narrowband oscillations and aperiodic components at seizure onset were parameterized. The frequency‐specific non‐linear correlation analysis was applied to the functional connectivity. The excitation/inhibition ratio (E:I ratio) reflected by the aperiodic slope was performed to evaluate the excitability.

Results

Twenty patients were included in the study, with 10 diagnosed with anterior cingulate epilepsy and 10 with anterior insular epilepsy. In both types of epilepsy, the correlation coefficient (h2) between the ACC and AIC at seizure onset exhibited a significantly higher value than that during interictal and preictal periods (p < 0.05). The direction index (D) showed a significant increase at seizure onset, serving as an indicator for the direction of information flow between these two brain regions with up to 90% accuracy. The E:I ratio increased significantly at seizure onset, with the seizure‐onset zone (SOZ) demonstrating a more pronounced increase compared to non‐SOZ (p < 0.05). For seizures originating from AIC, the E:I ratio was significantly higher in the AIC than in the ACC (p = 0.0364).

Conclusions

In the context of epilepsy, the ACC and AIC are dynamically coupled during seizures. The functional connectivity and excitability exhibit a significant increase at seizure onset. By analyzing connectivity and excitability, the SOZ in ACC and AIC can be identified. The direction index (D) serves as an indicator for the direction of information flow from SOZ to non‐SOZ. Notably, the excitability of SOZ changes more significantly than that of non‐SOZ.