bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impella for the Management of Ventricular Septal Defect Complicating Acute Myocardial Infarction: A European Multicenter Registry
Authors: Delmas Clement , Barbosa Hélène , David Charles-Henri , Bouisset Frédéric , Piriou Pierre-Guillaume , Roubille François , Leick Juergen , Pavlov Marin , Leurent Guillaume , Potapov Evgenij V. , Linke Axel , Mierke Johannes , Lanmüller Pia , Mangner Norman
Published: November 2023

Ventricular septal defect (VSD) is a rare but severe complication of myocardial infarction (MI). Temporary mechanical circulatory support (MCS) can be used as a bridge to VSD closure, heart transplantation, or ventricular assist device. We describe the use of Impella device in this context based on a multicenter European retrospective registry (17 centers responded). Twenty-eight post-MI VSD patients were included (Impella device were 2.5 for 1 patient, CP for 20, 5.0 for 5, and unknown for 2). All patients were in cardiogenic shock with multiple organ failure (SAPS II 41 [interquantile range {IQR} = 27–53], lactate 4.0 ± 3.5 mmol/L) and catecholamine support (dobutamine 55% and norepinephrine 96%). Additional temporary MCS was used in 14 patients (50%), mainly extracorporeal life support (ECLS) (n = 9, 32%). Severe bleedings were frequent (50%). In-hospital and 1 year mortalities were 75%. Ventricular septal defect management was surgical for 36% of patients, percutaneous for 21%, and conservative for 43%. Only surgically managed patients survived (70% in-hospital survival). Type and combination of temporary MCS used were not associated with mortality (Impella alone or in combination with intra-aortic balloon pump [IABP] or ECLS, p = 0.84). Impella use in patients with post-MI VSD is feasible but larger prospective registries are necessary to further elucidate potential benefits of left ventricular unloading in this setting.
Predictive value and potential association of PET/CT radiomics on lymph node metastasis of cervical cancer
Authors: Yang Shimin , Zhang Wenrui , Liu Chunli , Li Chunbo , Hua Keqin
Published: November 2023

Objective:

Due to the information-rich nature of positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) images, the authors hope to explore radiomics features that could distinguish metastatic lymph nodes (LNs) from hypermetabolic benign LNs, in addition to conventional indicators.

Methods:

PET/CT images of 106 patients with early-stage cervical cancer from 2019 to 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. The tumor lesions and LN regions of PET/CT images were outlined with SeeIt, and then radiomics features were extracted. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) was used to select features. The final selected radiomics features of LNs were used as predictors to construct a machine learning model to predict LN metastasis.

Results:

The authors determined two morphological coefficient characteristics of cervical lesions (shape – major axis length and shape – mesh volume), one first order characteristics of LNs (first order – 10 percentile) and two gray-level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM) characteristics of LNs (GLCM – id and GLCM – inverse variance) were closely related to LN metastasis. Finally, a neural network was constructed based on the radiomic features of the LNs. The area under the curve of receiver operating characteristic (AUC-ROC) of the model was 0.983 in the training set and 0.860 in the test set.

Conclusion:

The authors constructed and demonstrated a neural network based on radiomics features of PET/CT to evaluate the risk of single LN metastasis in early-stage cervical cancer.
Solitary Neuroblastoma in the Scapula
Authors: Amiruddin Raisa , Zhuang Hongming
Published: November 2023

Majority of primary pediatric neuroblastomas occur in the abdomen, followed by posterior mediastinum. A 7-year-old girl presented worsening pain in the left shoulder, and a CT image of the chest revealed osseous destruction in the left scapula, suggestive of bone tumor. A biopsy was performed. Pathological result was consistent with neuroblastoma. A 123I scan with SPECT/CT images was performed, which showed only increased activity in the left scapula without any other foci of abnormal activity elsewhere.
LeFort III Versus Monobloc Frontofacial Advancement: A Comparative Analysis of Soft Tissue Changes
Authors: Wagner Connor S. , Cho Daniel Y. , Villavisanis Dillan F. , Kumar Satvika , Salinero Lauren K. , Barrero Carlos E. , Swanson Jordan W. , Bartlett Scott P. , Taylor Jesse A.
Published: November 2023

Introduction:

The LeFort III and monobloc are commonly used midface advancement procedures for patients with syndromic craniosynostosis with well characterized postoperative skeletal changes. However, the differential effects of these procedures on facial soft tissues are less understood. The purpose of this study was to critically analyze and compare the effects of these 2 procedures on the overlying soft tissues of the face.

Methods:

Frontal and lateral preoperative and postoperative photographs of patients undergoing monobloc or LeFort III were retrospectively analyzed using ImageJ to measure soft tissue landmarks. Measurements included height of facial thirds, nasal length and width, intercanthal distance, and palpebral fissure height and width. Facial convexity was quantified by calculating the angle between sellion (radix), subnasale, and pogonion on lateral photographs.

Results:

Twenty-five patients with an average age of 6.7 years (range 4.8-14.5) undergoing monobloc (n=12) and LeFort III (n=13) were identified retrospectively and analyzed preoperatively and 6.4±3.6 months postoperatively. Patients undergoing LeFort III had a greater average postoperative increase in facial convexity angle acuity (28.2°) than patients undergoing monobloc (17.8°, P=0.021). Patients in both groups experience postoperative increases in nasal width (P<0.001) and decreases in palpebral fissure height (P<0.001).

Conclusions:

Both subcranial LeFort III advancements and monobloc frontofacial advancements resulted in significant changes in the soft tissues. Patients undergoing LeFort III procedures achieved greater acuity of the facial convexity angle, likely because the nasion is not advanced with the LeFort III segment.
Comparison of genomic diversity between single and pooled Staphylococcus aureus colonies isolated from human colonization cultures
Authors: Raghuram Vishnu , Gunoskey Jessica J. , Hofstetter Katrina S. , Jacko Natasia F. , Shumaker Margot J. , Hu Yi-Juan , Read Timothy D. , David Michael Z.
Published: November 2023

Graphical abstract
Modeling the Effects of Formulary Exclusions: How Many Patients Could Be Affected by a Specific Exclusion?
Authors: Sydor Anne M. , Bergin Emily , Kay Jonathan , Stone Erik , Popovian Robert
Published: November 2023

Background

Drug formularies, initially designed to promote the use of cost-effective generic drugs are now designed to maximize financial benefits for the pharmacy benefit management companies that negotiate drug purchase prices. In the largest publicly available formulary, 55% of mandated substitutions are not for generic versions of the same active ingredient and/or formulation and may not be medically or financially beneficial to patients.

Methods

We modeled the effect of excluding novel agents for atrial fibrillation/venous thromboembolism, migraine prevention, and psoriasis, which all would require substitution with a different active ingredient. Using population data, market share of the two largest U.S. formularies, and 2021 prescription data, we calculated how many people could be affected by such exclusions. Using data from the published literature, we calculated how many of those individuals are likely to discontinue treatment and/or have adverse events due to a formulary exclusion.

Results

The number of people likely to have adverse events due to the exclusion could be as high as one million for atrial fibrillation/venous thromboembolism, 900,000 for migraine prevention, and 500,000 for psoriasis. The numbers likely to discontinue treatment for their condition are as high as 924,000 for atrial fibrillation/venous thromboembolism, 646,000 for migraine, and 138,000 for psoriasis.

Conclusion

Substitution with a nonequivalent treatment is common in formularies currently in use and is not without substantial consequences for hundreds of thousands of patients. Forced drug substitution results in costly increases in morbidity and mortality and should be part of the cost-benefit analysis of any formulary exclusion.
Interpretable Video-Based Tracking and Quantification of Parkinsonism Clinical Motor States
Authors: Deng Daniel , Ostrem Jill L. , Nguyen Vy , Cummins Daniel D. , Sun Julia , Pathak Anupam , Little Simon , Abbasi-Asl Reza
Published: November 2023

The ability to quantify motor symptom progression in Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients is crucial for assessing disease progression and for optimizing therapeutic interventions, such as dopaminergic medications and deep brain stimulation. Cumulative and heuristic clinical experience has identified various clinical signs associated with PD severity but these are neither objectively quantifiable or robustly validated. Video-based objective symptom quantification enabled by machine learning (ML) introduces a potential solution. However, video-based diagnostic tools often have implementation challenges due to expensive and inaccessible technology, often requiring multi-camera setups, pristine video collection protocols, or additional sensors that are impractical for conventional use. Additionally, typical “black-box” ML implementations are not tailored to be clinically interpretable, either due to complex and unintuitive algorithms or a lack of analysis on feature stability and optimality. Here, we address these needs by releasing a comprehensive kinematic dataset and developing a novel interpretable video-based framework that accurately predicts high versus low PD motor symptom severity according to MDS- UPDRS Part III metrics. This data driven approach validated and robustly quantified canonical movement features and identified new clinical insights, not previously appreciated as related to clinical severity. Our framework is enabled by retrospective, single-view, seconds-long videos recorded on consumer-grade devices such as smartphones, tablets, and digital cameras, thereby eliminating the requirement for specialized equipment. Following interpretable ML principles, our framework enforces robustness and interpretability by integrating (1) automatic, data-driven kinematic metric evaluation guided by pre-defined digital features of movement, (2) combination of bi-domain (body and hand) kinematic features, and (3) sparsity-inducing and stability-driven ML analysis with simple-to-interpret models. These elements in our design ensure that the proposed framework quantifies clinically meaningful motor features useful for both ML predictions and clinical analysis.
Comparative sensitivity of Early Cystic Fibrosis Lung Disease detection tools in school aged children
Authors: Bayfield Katie J , Weinheimer Oliver , Middleton Anna , Boyton Christie , Fitzpatrick Rachel , Kennedy Brendan , Blaxland Anneliese , Jayasuriya Geshani , Caplain Neil , Wielpütz Mark O , Yu Lifeng , Galban Craig J , Robinson Terry E , Bartholmai Brian , Gustafsson Per , Fitzgerald Dominic , Selvadurai Hiran , Robinson Paul D
Published: November 2023

Background

Effective detection of early lung disease in cystic fibrosis (CF) is critical to understanding early pathogenesis and evaluating early intervention strategies. We aimed to compare ability of several proposed sensitive functional tools to detect early CF lung disease as defined by CT structural disease in school aged children.

Methods

50 CF subjects (mean±SD 11.2±3.5y, range 5-18y) with early lung disease (FEV1≥70% predicted: 95.7±11.8%) performed spirometry, Multiple breath washout (MBW, including trapped gas assessment), oscillometry, cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) and simultaneous spirometer-directed low-dose CT imaging. CT data were analysed using well-evaluated fully quantitative software for bronchiectasis and air trapping (AT).

Results

CT bronchiectasis and AT occurred in 24% and 58% of patients, respectively. Of the functional tools, MBW detected the highest rates of abnormality: Scond82%, MBWTG RV78%, LCI 74%, MBWTG IC68% and Sacin51%. CPET VO2peak detected slightly higher rates of abnormality (9%) than spirometry (FEV1/FVC 8%, FEF25-758%, FEV12%). For oscillometry AX (14%) performed better than Rrs (2%) whereas Xrs and R5-19 failed to detect any abnormality. LCI and Scondcorrelated with bronchiectasis (r=0.55-0.64, p<0.001) and AT (r=0.73-0.74, p<0.001). MBW-assessed trapped gas was detectable in 92% of subjects and concordant with CT-assessed AT in 74%.

Conclusions

Significant structural and functional deficits occur in early CF lung disease, as detected by CT and MBW. For MBW, additional utility, beyond that offered by LCI, was suggested for Scondand MBW-assessed gas trapping. Our study reinforces the complementary nature of these tools and the limited utility of conventional oscillometry and CPET in this setting.

AUTHOR CONTRIBUTIONS

Conception and design: KB, OW, MOW, BB, TER, PG, DF, HS, PR

Acquisition, analysis and interpretation of data: KB, OW, CB, AB, RF, PG, AM, HS, BK, MOW, LY, CG, BB, TER, PR

Writing the manuscript or revising it critically for important intellectual content: KB, OW, CB, AB, RF, AM, BK, GJ, NC, PG, DF, HS, CG, MOW, BB, TER, PR

HIGHLIGHTS

In early lung disease, multiple breath washout and CT are complementary tools

MBW and CT detect more abnormality than oscillometry, CPET and spirometry

Sensitivity of MBW to detect abnormality can be increased by Scondand MBW-assessed trapped gas

GRANT SUPPORT

Australian Cystic Fibrosis Research Trust: 2018 Innovation Grant. This study was supported by grants from the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (82DZL004A1) (to OW, MOW).
Endothelial receptor proteins in acute venous thrombosis and delayed thrombus resolution in cerebral sinus vein thrombosis
Authors: Kellermair Lukas , Höfer Christoph , Zeller Matthias W.G. , Kubasta Christa , Bandke Dave , Weis Serge , Kellermair Jörg , Forstner Thomas , Helbok Raimund , Vosko Milan R.
Published: November 2023

Background and Purpose

Cerebral sinus venous thrombosis (CSVT) is a rare but life-threatening disease and its diagnosis remains challenging. Blood biomarkers, including D-Dimer are currently not recommended in guidelines. Soluble endothelial receptor proteins (sICAM-1, sPECAM-1 and sVCAM-1) have been shown to be promising diagnostic biomarkers in deep-vein-thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), however, their role in acute CSVT remains unclear.

Methods

In this bi-center, prospective study we quantified D-Dimer as well as sICAM-1, sPECAM-1 and sVCAM-1 in plasma of patients with clinically suspected CSVT managed in the neurological emergency department (ED) of a tertiary care hospital. All patients underwent cerebral magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and were followed up after 3, 6 and 12 months to detect thrombus resolution.

Results

Twenty-four out of 75 (32%) patients with clinically suspected CSVT presenting with headache to the ED were diagnosed with acute CSVT. These patients had a mean age of 45 ± 16 years and 78% were female. In patients with CSVT, mean baseline D-dimer (p<0.001) and sPECAM-1 (p<0.001) were significantly higher compared to patients without CSVT. The combination of D-Dimer and sPECAM-1 yielded the best ROC-AUC (0.994; □ < □ 0.001) with a negative predictive value of 95.7% and a positive predictive value of 95.5%. In addition, higher baseline sPECAM-1 levels (> 198ng/ml) on admission were associated with delayed venous thrombus resolution at 3 months (AUC = 0.83).

Conclusion

sPECAM-1 in combination with D-Dimer should be used to improve the diagnostic accuracy of acute CSVT and sPECAM-1 may predict long-term outcome of CSVT. Confirmatory results are needed in other settings in order to show their value in the management concept of CSVT patients.
Catalytic and non-catalytic functions of DNA polymerase kappa in translesion DNA synthesis
Authors: Sellés-Baiget Selene , Ambjørn Sara M. , Carli Alberto , Hendriks Ivo A. , Gallina Irene , Davey Norman E. , Benedict Bente , Meeusen Bob , Hertz Emil P.T. , Slappendel Laura , Semlow Daniel , Gadi Sampath A. , Sturla Shana , Nielsen Michael L. , Nilsson Jakob , Miller Thomas C. R. , Duxin Julien P.
Published: November 2023

Translesion DNA synthesis (TLS) is an essential process that allows cells to bypass lesions encountered during DNA replication and is emerging as a primary target of chemotherapy. Among vertebrate DNA polymerases, polymerase kappa (Pol() has the unique ability to bypass minor groove DNA adducts in vitro. However, Pol(is also required for cells to overcome major groove DNA adducts but the basis of this requirement is unclear. Here, we combine CRISPR base editor screening technology in human cells with TLS analysis of defined DNA lesions in Xenopus egg extracts to unravel the functions and regulations of Pol(during lesion bypass. Strikingly, we show that Pol(has two main functions during TLS, which are differentially regulated via Rev1 binding. On the one hand, Pol(is essential to replicate across minor groove DNA lesions in a process that depends on PCNA ubiquitylation but is independent of Rev1. On the other hand, via its cooperative interaction with Rev1 and ubiquitylated PCNA, Pol(stabilizes the Rev1-Pol(extension complex on DNA to allow extension past major groove DNA lesions and abasic sites, in a process that is independent of Pol(catalytic activity. Together, our work identifies catalytic and non-catalytic functions of Pol(in TLS and reveals important regulatory mechanisms underlying the unique domain architecture present at the C-terminal end of Y-family TLS polymerases.
Generation and characterization ofSema6aΔcytconditional knockout mice
Authors: Verhagen Marieke G. , van Battum Eljo Y. , van den Munkhof Marleen H. , Lemstra Suzanne , Rehberg Kati , Koutourlou Aikaterini , Jansen Klara , van der Meer Christiaan , van Kronenburg Nicky C. H. , Adolfs Youri , Pasterkamp R. Jeroen
Published: November 2023

The axon guidance molecule Semaphorin-6A (SEMA6A) plays a key role during nervous system development. SEMA6A, classically known as a ligand for Plexin-A2 and -A4, is a transmembrane protein that can also elicit signaling via its intracellular domainin vitro. However, the physiological relevance of this ‘reverse’ signaling route is largely unknown. We generated a new transgenic mouse model,Sema6aΔcytfl/fl, in which the cytosolic part of SEMA6A can be conditionally removed usingCre-recombination. UponSema6aΔcytmutation, SEMA6A can only act as a ligand andreversesignaling is perturbed. Germline deletion of SEMA6A’s intracellular part results in developmental defects in axon pathfinding and neuron migration that partially phenocopy defects observed in fullSema6aknockout mice. These defects include disorganization of the anterior commissure, piriform cortex, lateral olfactory tract, thalamocortical and corticospinal white matter tracts, and defected neuron migration in the neocortex and cerebellum. Intriguingly, the hippocampal malformation described inSema6afull knockout mice was not reproduced, suggesting a specific role for SEMA6Aforwardsignaling in hippocampal development. Our results indicate that the intracellular domain of SEMA6A is essential for proper axon targeting and neuron migration, and provide the first proof of a SEMA6Areversesignaling pathwayin vivo.
Dual regulation of SLC25A39 by AFG3L2 and iron controls mitochondrial glutathione homeostasis
Authors: Shi Xiaojian , DeCiucis Marisa , Grabinska Kariona A. , Kanyo Jean , Liu Adam , Lam Tukiet , Shen Hongying
Published: November 2023

Organelle transporters define metabolic compartmentalization and how this metabolite transport process can be modulated is poorly explored. Here, we discovered that SLC25A39, a mitochondrial transporter critical for mitochondrial glutathione uptake, is a short-lived protein under dual regulation at the protein level. Co-immunoprecipitation mass spectrometry and CRISPR KO in cells identified that mitochondrialm-AAA protease AFG3L2 is responsible for degrading SLC25A39 through the matrix loop 1. SLC25A39 senses mitochondrial iron-sulfur cluster using four matrix cysteine residues and inhibits its degradation. SLC25A39 protein regulation is robust in developing and mature neurons. This dual transporter regulation, by protein quality control and metabolic sensing, allows modulating mitochondrial glutathione level in response to iron homeostasis, opening new avenues to explore regulation of metabolic compartmentalization. Neuronal SLC25A39 regulation connects mitochondrial protein quality control, glutathione and iron homeostasis, which were previously unrelated biochemical features in neurodegeneration.
Astrocyte sensitivity to glymphatic shear stress is amplified by albumin and mediated by the interaction of sphingosine 1 phosphate with Piezo1
Authors: Ballesteros-Gomez David , McCutcheon Sean , Yang Greta L. , Cibelli Antonio , Bispo Ashley , Krawchuk Michael , Piedra Giselle , Spray David C.
Published: November 2023

Astrocyte endfeet enwrap brain vasculature, forming a boundary for perivascular glymphatic flow of fluid and solutes along and across the astrocyte endfeet into the brain parenchyma. To determine whether astrocytes may sense and respond to the shear forces generated by glymphatic flow, we examined intracellular calcium (Ca2+) changes evoked in astrocytes to brief fluid flow applied in calibrated microfluidic chambers. Shear stresses < 20 dyn/cm2failed to evoke Ca2+responses in the absence of albumin, but cells responded to shear stress below 1 dyn/cm2when as little as 5 μM albumin was present in flow medium. A role for extracellular matrix in mechanotransduction was indicated by reduced sensitivity after degradation of heparan sulfate proteoglycan. Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) amplified shear responses in the absence of albumin, whereas mechanosensitivity was attenuated by the S1P receptor blocker fingolimod. Piezo1 participated in the transduction as revealed by blockade by the spider toxin GsMTX and amplification by the chemical modulator Yoda1, even in absence of albumin or S1P. Our findings that astrocytes are exquisitely sensitive to shear stress and that sensitivity is greatly amplified by albumin concentrations encountered in normal and pathological CSF predict that perivascular astrocytes are responsive to glymphatic shear stress and that responsiveness is augmented by elevated CSF protein. S1P receptor signaling thus establishes a setpoint for Piezo1 activation that is finely tuned to coincide with albumin level in CSF and to the low shear forces resulting from glymphatic flow.

Graphical abstract

Astrocyte endfoot responds to glymphatic shear stress when albumin is present. Mechanism involves sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) binding to its receptor (S1PR), activating phospholipase C (PLC) and thereby sensitizing the response of Piezo1 to flow. Ca2+influx triggers Ca2+release from intracellular stores and further downstream signaling, thereby modulating parenchymal perfusion. Illustration created using BioRender.com
A MATLAB algorithm to automatically estimate the QT interval and other ECG parameters and validation using a machine learning approach in congenital long-QT syndrome
Authors: Tzvi-Minker Elinor , Dittmann Sven , Keck Andreas , Schulze-Bahr Eric
Published: November 2023

Objective

We present a novel MATLAB®algorithm designed to automatically estimate the QT interval as well as other parameters in digital electrocardiograms (ECGs) of patients with congenital long QT syndrome (LQTS).

Background

Normal myocardial repolarization and the QT interval (i.e., the duration from the beginning of the QRS complex to the end of the T wave) are crucial markers for arrhythmogenesis, diagnosis and monitoring of LQTS. Manual measurement is time consuming and prone to physician’s variability and potential errors, necessitating an efficient and precise automated approach.

Methods

Our algorithm implements Lepeschkin’s tangent method to determine the T-wave end and, subsequently, the QT interval. Based on this, the algorithm additionally calculates other ECG parameters and T-wave characteristics: T-peak to T-end, Twave area, T-wave duration and R-peak to T-peak amplitude ratio. The results are two-fold validated: (1) against expert measurement of the QT interval (QT_GS), as well as (2) against the algorithm results of the ECG machine used (QT_MU). Machine-learning methods are applied to investigate the accuracy of the estimated parameters by our algorithm in a cohort of 363 LQT1 patients.

Results

Estimation of T-wave end, the QT interval and other ECG parameters by our algorithm was successful in at least one of the three ECG channels in 362 out of 363 patients (99.7%). On the other hand, the ECG machine-based QT_MU algorithm could estimate the QT interval only in 245/363 (95.3%) of recordings. Individual differences between the developed MATLAB®algorithm in assessment of the QT and QT_GS were 10-fold more accurate to differences between QT_MU and QT_GS. Applying an optimizable Ensemble classifier on 30 ECG parameters extracted by our MATLAB®algorithm had an accuracy of 74.91% and area under the curve (AUC) of 0.82 in classifying LQTS patients with a prolonged QTc interval (upon QT_GS) from those with a normal QTc interval.

Conclusion

The presented MATLAB®-based algorithm offers a robust and reliable approach to automatic QT interval estimation and QTc calculation in LQTS patients, potentially improving diagnostic precision and patient management. The results suggest that integrating further ECG parameters can assist with clinical assessment of LQTS patients. Future development will focus on integration into mainstream ECG devices and broadening the applicability to other arrhythmic conditions.
Design and development of an experimental bench concept for testing of fuselage stiffened panels, using a virtual testing methodology
Authors: Kordas Panagiotis , Fotopoulos Konstantinos , Lampeas George , Karelas Evangelos , Louizos Evgenios
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Fuselage structures are subjected to combinations of axial, bending, shear and differential pressure loads. The validation of advanced metallic and composite fuselage designs against such loads is based on the full-scale testing of the fuselage barrel, which, however, is highly demanding from a time and cost viewpoint. This paper aims to assist in scaling-down the experimentation to the stiffened panel level which presents the opportunity to validate state-of-the-art designs at higher rates than previously attainable.

Design/methodology/approach

Development of a methodology to successfully design tests at the stiffened panel level and realize them using advanced, complex and adaptable test-rigs that are capable of introducing independently a set of distinct load types (e.g. internal overpressure, tension, shear) while applying appropriate boundary conditions at the edges of the stiffened panel.

Findings

A baseline test-rig configuration was developed after extensive parametric modelling studies at the stiffened panel level. The realization of the loading and boundary conditions on the test-rig was facilitated through innovative supporting and loading system set-ups.

Originality/value

The proposed test bench is novel and compared to the conventional counterparts more viable from an economic and manufacturing point of view. It leads to panel responses, which are as close as possible to those of the fuselage barrel in-flight and can be used for the execution of static or fatigue tests on metallic and thermoplastic curved integrally stiffened full-scale panels, representative of a business jet fuselage.
Assessing the awareness and perception of waqf among business owners in Gombe State, Nigeria
Authors: Abdu Musa , Lamido Abdullahi Abubakar , Jibir Adamu
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The literature about the dynamics of Muslims' awareness and perception of waqf has been generally scarce,especially in Nigeria. As renewed efforts are emerging to develop a new waqf regime in the country, this study examines this aspect in Gombe metropolis, Nigeria, with a view to identifying the key factors shaping people's perception and awareness towards waqf.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve the objective of this study, primary data were collected through a survey among 494 business owners in the Gombe metropolis. The data were then analysed using probit and Tobit regression models.

Findings

The study found that altruistic behaviour, religiosity level, educational level and young age are among the factors that determine people's perception and awareness towards donating to waqf among business owners in Gombe. Altruism and young age embolden businesspersons to recognise the effectiveness of waqf institutions in solving socioeconomic challenges.

Practical implications

The findings of this study imply that waqf has huge potential in the study area and that with well-structured, organized waqf education programmes within the business community using diverse avenues, a robust waqf sector can be developed.

Originality/value

As far as the study area and the entire Nigerian Islamic economics and finance landscape is concerned, the study has explored a novel research area. Given the infant stage of empirical studies on waqf in Nigeria, there are virtually no previous attempts to examine the awareness and perception of businesspersons towards waqf; variables that are key to the development of an effective sector.
Enhance consumer experience and product attitude in E-commerce live streaming: based on the environmental perspective
Authors: Peng Xixian , Ren Jiaqi , Guo Yutong
Published: November 2023

Purpose

E-commerce live streaming (ELS) has become a new and important shopping channel. Although previous studies have provided insightful findings on how to engage consumers in ELS, limited effort has been made to explore the role of factors of live streaming rooms. Based on the literature on space perception and the retail environment, this study aims to develop a theoretical model to examine how perceived distance and perceived depth affect consumers' affective and cognitive perceptions and then further impact product attitude in ELS.

Design/methodology/approach

This study collected 414 valid survey responses to test the proposed research model. Survey data were analyzed using partial least squares (PLS)-structural equation modeling. The PLS Multi-Group analysis (PLS-MGA) was used to test the consistency of the research model across different product types and watching durations.

Findings

The results suggest that environmental factors of a live streaming room (i.e. perceived distance and perceived depth) can impact consumers' attitudes toward the product in the live streaming via both cognitive and affective routes. These effects keep consistent across different product types and watching durations.

Originality/value

The paper focuses on the environmental perspective, which is unexplored in previous literature on ELS. It highlights the importance of the space design of live streaming rooms.
More haste, less speed: leader bottom-line mentality and employee counter-productive social cyberloafing
Authors: Zhou Yue , Chen Peiyi , Liu Qingqing , Wang Tingxi
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to explore the relationship between leader bottom-line mentality (BLM) and employee social cyberloafing behavior. Based on social exchange theory, the authors propose that leader BLM will promote employee social cyberloafing behavior via psychological contract breach, especially when employee needs for relatedness is high.

Design/methodology/approach

To test the hypotheses, the authors conducted a multi-wave, multi-source field study with 185 paired employee–leader dyads at three time points. The hypotheses were tested by Mplus with a bootstrap approach to obtain confidence intervals.

Findings

The results show that leader BLM has a positive impact on employee social cyberloafing behavior, which is mediated by psychological contract breach. In addition, employee needs for relatedness moderates this process. Specifically, when employees pertain high needs for relatedness, the influence of leader BLM will be stronger.

Practical implications

This research paper highlights the detrimental influence of leader BLM and provide directions for preventing employee cyberloafing behavior.

Originality/value

Previous studies have drawn inconsistent conclusions on the effectiveness of leader BLM, such as enhancing task performance and eliciting social undermining. This study further explores the underlying mechanism linking leader BLM to employee social cyberloafing behavior and the boundary conditions. This has subsequently provided practitioners with new perspectives regarding why employees engage in counter-productive social cyberloafing.
Ruscombe Artisan Food & Drink Ltd: business dilemmas
Authors: Mehta Anupam , Xiao Ling , Gill-Simmen Lucy
Published: November 2023

Research methodology

This case is based on primary data collected via interviews with the CEO of the company. The authors obtained the case release form to publish this case.

Case overview/synopsis

Various stakeholders, regulators, environmental activists and public awareness have increased companies’ pressure to contribute to environmental issues. However, the pressure seems to be more on large-scale companies to make progress and have an elaborate vision and goals related to environmental issues than small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

This case deals with the sustainability focus of the CEO of Ruscombe Artisan Food & Drink Ltd. (Made for Drink), an SME in the UK with a voluntary environmental impact investment proposal under consideration while having losses since 2017.

The case integrates the financial aspects and environmental considerations into this strategic investment evaluation process for making a capital investment decision. The case provides the actual financials of the company, including the income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statement of the company since its inception in 2017.

The case information enables students to comprehend and evaluate the consequences of doing a voluntary environmental capital investment project. The students will have the opportunity to apply simple capital investment methods and consider the external and less tangible environmental benefits in their final decision-making.

Complexity academic level

The case is suitable for undergraduate accounting or management modules, mainly introductory modules such as Managing Financial Resources, International Accounting, Finance, Introductory Corporate Finance, Basic Financial Literacy and Entrepreneurship.
Methodology of elastic full‐waveform inversion of multicomponent ocean‐bottom data for anisotropic media
Authors: Sethi Harpreet , Tsvankin Ilya , Shragge Jeff
Published: November 2023

Full‐waveform inversion of multicomponent data can provide an improved estimation of medium parameters using both compressional‐ and shear‐wave information. However, most earlier studies that involved a full‐waveform inversion of ocean‐bottom data are based on acoustic anisotropic or elastic isotropic approximations. Here, we consider realistic elastic anisotropic media and develop an efficient full‐waveform inversion framework for estimating model parameters. We simulate seismic wavefields using a previously developed coupled acoustic/elastic wave propagator that implements a mimetic finite‐difference method with fully staggered grids to accurately handle the fluid/solid boundary conditions. The algorithm employs a multiscale approach starting from low frequencies and incorporating higher frequency bands in the later inversion stages. We analyse the influence of different types of input data on the accuracy of the inverted anisotropy parameters for hard and soft water bottoms. The employed misfit function incorporates information from both hydrophones and ocean‐bottom geophones. Numerical examples indicate that injecting multiple data components simultaneously increases the complexity of the objective function and often degrades the quality of the estimated medium parameters. Thus, we propose a sequential strategy using a single data component at a time. Pressure (hydrophone) data alone can provide satisfactory results if long offsets (i.e., with the offset/depth ratio ≥ 3) are available. Adding the horizontal particle‐displacement or ‐velocity components increases the accuracy of the estimated shear‐wave vertical velocity () and P‐wave normal‐moveout () velocity, especially for strongly heterogeneous sub‐water‐bottom models.
A denoising method of microseismic data based on a single‐channel phase space reconstruction and independent component analysis algorithm
Authors: Meng Huijie , Zeng Huahui , Xu Xingrong , Wang Yanxiang , Liu Huan , Li Dongsheng
Published: November 2023

Estimating clean seismic signals from noisy single‐channel records is a hot research topic in the field of microseismic data processing. Due to the existence of strong random noise, the signal‐to‐noise ratio of such data is low, presenting a challenge for signal restoration. In this paper, we propose a denoising method of microseismic data based on a single‐channel phase space reconstruction and independent component analysis algorithm. Specifically, we first apply the phase space reconstruction to transform the one‐dimensional seismic signal into a high‐dimensional phase space in which signal and noise have different trajectories. We then employ independent component analysis to the reconstructed data for noise separation. Experimental results on real microseismic data verify that our proposed denoising method is useful for noise suppression and can enhance the signal‐to‐noise ratio of data, which can be further used for signal identification and event positioning in microseismic monitoring.
Exports of Fruit and Vegetables from Morocco and other Mediterranean Countries to the EU: Some Policy Recommendations from the Covid Pandemic
Authors: Santeramo Fabio G. , Lamonaca Emilia
Published: November 2023

The inward flows of fruits and vegetables in the European Union are regulated by the import regime, consisting of a system of quotas and Entry Prices. The effectiveness of this trade policy has been under investigation since the early 2000s and is (still) debated. The pandemic has offered new insights. Growth in trade of fruit and vegetables (F&V) in the Mediterranean region, especially in Morocco, slowed down during the Covid‐19 crisis. While reductions in trade of F&V are likely to be associated with shocks caused by the pandemic, the long‐lasting effects of a well‐established system of policy interventions in the sector should not be neglected. In other words, the effects of the Covid pandemic have only altered the volumes of F&V trade from Mediterranean countries. However, the continued occurrence of excess (low priced) imports of F&V from the Mediterranean region reinforces policy recommendations that point at the need to reform trade policy. The EU import regime should be simplified, by relaxing the controls on prices of imported F&V, and by negotiating off‐season import quotas. The former would shrink running costs while the latter would lower competition among EU producers and Mediterranean exporters.
Expert consensus on the relevance of intestinal microecology and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Wang Qiang , Lei Yumeng , Wang Jun , Xu Xiaojun , Wang Liang , Zhou Hao , Guo Zhi ,   Tumor and Microecology Committee of China Anti‐Cancer Association
Published: November 2023

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) affects gut microbial homeostasis, and intestinal microecology (IM) may also affect the prognosis of HSCT through multiple mechanisms. In order to further understand the key issues of the correlation between intestinal microecology and HSCT and to learn and absorb new research progress, the Tumor and Microecology Committee of China Anti‐Cancer Association organized relevant experts to discuss together and propose the “Expert Consensus on the Relevance of Intestinal Microecology and Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation” for clinicians' reference in their practical work. It is a reference for clinicians in practice and provides a basis for further in‐depth research in the field of tumor and microecology.
Comparison of outcomes in vaccinated versus unvaccinated COVID‐19 kidney transplant recipients, a single center retrospective study—Is the taboo justified?
Authors: Singh Priyamvada , Von Stein Lauren , McGowan Melissa , Nolan Annelise , Ross Adrienne , Kaur Manjit , Maxwell Molly , Ma Jianing , Peng Jing , Pesavento Todd
Published: November 2023

Introduction

We assessed differences in the post‐transplant outcomes between COVID‐19 vaccinated and unvaccinated Kidney transplant (KTx) recipients.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective, single‐center study of 400 KTx from 2/1/2021 to 4/30/2022 with 6–21 months follow‐up. Primary outcomes included differences in the incidence of post‐transplant COVID‐19, ICU admission for COVID‐19, death, and graft failure between the two groups. Secondary outcomes were inpatient floor admission, outpatient‐management, length of hospital stay during COVID‐19 admission. We also reported rejection, DGF, CMV needing treatment, and BK PCR >10 000 in baseline characteristics.

Result

70.5% (282/400) were fully vaccinated, and 29.5% (118/400) were unvaccinated. 33% (92/282) of vaccinated and 39% (46/118) of unvaccinated patients developed COVID‐19 (p‐value .03). In both groups, 16% received outpatient treatments for COVID‐19. 3% (12/282) of the vaccinated and 8% (11/118) unvaccinated were admitted to the general floors (p‐value .06), and 1% (3/282) of the vaccinated and 3.3% (4/118) of the unvaccinated patients needed admission to the ICU (p‐value .2). The length of stay was 12 days in both groups. 13/282 (4.6%) vaccinated patients and 7/118 (5.93%) unvaccinated patients died during the follow‐up period (p‐value = .3). COVID‐19 was deemed the etiology of death in 5/13 cases in the vaccinated and 3/7 in the unvaccinated. DGF, rejection, CMV requiring treatment, and BK PCR >10 000 were comparable between groups.

Conclusion

The incidence of COVID‐19 was higher in unvaccinated than in vaccinated KTx. The two groups were not statistically different for other primary outcomes, including the need for hospital admissions (outpatient, general floor, ICU), length of hospital stay, death, and graft failure.
Evaluation of manual dexterity when using a mirror of dental students and academicians with increasing professional experience
Authors: Yıldırım Yasin Aykut , Süsgün Yıldırım Zehra , Ergun Nevin
Published: November 2023

Introduction

To evaluate the manual dexterity of dentistry students and academicians when using a mirror according to increasing professional experience.

Materials and Methods

The study included 72 subjects, grouped according to professional experience 5th year dentistry students (DS) accepted as no experience—academicians with 1–4 years experience (A5L)—academicians with ≥5 years experience (A5M). Direct and indirect visualisation using the mirror was evaluated with the completion times of the O'Connor Finger Dexterity Test.

Results

The hand grip strength values of both left and right hand were found to be statistically significantly higher in all the males than in the females (p < .05). The indirect test times (ITT) using the mirror were significantly longer for males than for females (p = .001), and no significant difference was determined between the genders in the direct test times (DTT) (p > .05). For all the study participants, DTT shortened as professional experience increased (p < .05). In addition, the mean values of both DTT (p = .031) and ITT (p = .028) in the DS group were statistically significantly longer than the A5M group.

Conclusion

With increasing professional experience, manual dexterity was determined to increase, and females were found to be more successful in the direct manual dexterity tests independently of the groups. The statistical significance between the DS and A5M groups, especially in the hand dexterity test with a mirror, shows the importance of experience. The study results demonstrated that professional manual dexterity in dentistry can be developed with increasing practical application.
HyperCVAD versus pegaspargase‐containing regimens for Hispanic adults with newly diagnosed B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Lee Benjamin J. , Griffin Shawn P. , Doh Jean , Chan Alexandre , Ciurea Stefan O. , Jeyakumar Deepa , Fleischman Angela G. , Naqvi Kiran , Pannunzio Nicholas R. , O’Brien Susan , Kongtim Piyanuch
Published: November 2023

Objective

There are significant disparities in outcomes among Hispanic patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Recent studies have demonstrated favorable outcomes of pegaspargase‐containing ALL regimens (PEG‐CAR) in young adults however, outcomes in Hispanic ethnicity continue to be underreported.

Methods

We evaluated outcomes of newly diagnosed, adult B‐cell ALL Hispanic and non‐Hispanic patients consecutively treated with a PEG‐CAR or HyperCVAD between January 2011 and November 2022. The primary endpoint was event‐free survival (EFS) while secondary endpoints included cumulative incidence of relapse and overall survival (OS).

Results

Among 105 included patients, 48 (45.7%) were treated with a PEG‐CAR and 57 (54.3%) with HyperCVAD. Median age was 38 years (range, 18–75 years), 61% were Hispanic, and 35.2% had poor‐genetic risk. Hispanic patients demonstrated significantly worse 5‐year EFS with a PEG‐CAR compared to that seen with HyperCVAD (HR, 2.58; 95% CI, 1.32–5.04; p = .006) whereas non‐Hispanic patients had better outcomes with PIR (52.4% vs. 42.0%). Hispanic ethnicity (p = .015) and male sex (p = .019) were independent predictors for poor OS.

Conclusions

Hispanic patients with B‐cell ALL had worse EFS with a PEG‐CAR as compared with HyperCVAD. Future studies will aim to confirm these findings and establish a tailored treatment approach for this high‐risk population.
Plasticity occurs in a specific phenotype of neurons in the nucleus tractus solitarius of dystrophin gene‐mutated rats
Authors: Chikamoto Akitoshi , Tochinai Ryota , Sekizawa Shin‐ichi , Kuwahara Masayoshi
Published: November 2023

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a severe progressive neuromuscular disorder that causes cardiac and respiratory failure. Patients with DMD have tachycardia and autonomic nervous dysfunction at a young age, which can potentially worsen cardiorespiratory function. Therefore, we hypothesised that plasticity occurs in neurons of the cardiorespiratory brainstem nucleus (nucleus tractus solitarius [NTS]) due to DMD, thus affecting neuronal regulation because afferent information from cardiorespiratory organs changes with disease progression. Patch‐clamp experiments were performed on second‐order NTS neurons from Dmd‐mutated (Dm) rats that showed no functional dystrophin protein expression, as confirmed by immunohistochemistry. NTS neurons are classified into two electrophysiological phenotypes: one showing a delayed onset of spiking from hyperpolarised membrane potentials, namely, delayed‐onset spiking (DS)‐type neurons, and the other showing a rapid onset, namely, rapid‐onset spiking‐type neurons. Neuroplasticity mainly occurs in DS‐type neurons in Dm rats and is characterised by blunted neuronal excitability accompanied by reduced outward currents and a facilitatory effect on synaptic transmission, that is, an increased frequency of spontaneous and miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) without changes in the amplitude and an increased amplitude of tractus solitarius‐evoked EPSCs without changes in the paired‐pulse ratio. Although we cannot rule out the possibility that the neuroplastic changes observed in Dm rats were caused by dystrophin deficiency in the neurons themselves, the plasticity could be caused by cardiorespiratory deterioration and/or adaptation in DMD patients.