bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Effectiveness of a 3-Step Versus a 6-Step Hand Hygiene Technique: A Randomized Controlled Cross-over Study
Authors: Chen Nuo , Li Yan , He Wenbin , Chen Xiaoyan , Cheng Fan , Cheng Xiaolin , Zhou Weilong , Tan Yibin , Wu Wenwen , Wu Lingling , Qiao Fu , Feng Bilong , Wang Ying
Published: September 2024

Background

The aim of this study is to assess the clinical effectiveness of the 3-step hand hygiene (HH) technique (3-HT) compared with the 6-step HH technique (6-HT; World Health Organization 6-step technique) using an alcohol-based hand rub.

Methods

A randomized controlled crossover trial was conducted from November to December 2023 in 10 wards of a tertiary A-level hospital according to CONSORT guidelines. The 240 healthcare workers (HCWs) were randomly divided into the 3-HT intervention group or the 6-HT control group. The trial was conducted in 2 stages, and the effectiveness of each indicator in the 2 groups was compared after a washout period of 2 weeks.

Results

Compared with the 6-HT, the 3-HT has demonstrated significant superiority in all indicators of HH compliance as well as the accuracy rate of HH practices. The total HH median times for the 3-HT and 6-HT were 16.00 (interquartile range, 15.00–20.00) and 32.50 (30.00–40.00) seconds, respectively (P < .05). The reduction factors for bacterial colony-forming unit counts did not differ and the colony-forming unit counts were not significantly different. Bacillus, Staphylococcus, and Micrococcus were detected before and after the use of hand rubs. HCWs preferred the 3-HT over the 6-HT. There were no significant difference in healthcare-associated infections rate between the 2 techniques.

Conclusions

The 3-HT was significantly superior to the 6-HT in terms of the HH eligibility rate, compliance, and HH time. The safety and feasibility of the 3-HT were verified by assessing microorganism count.
Colletotrichum species causing Glomerella leaf spot and apple bitter rot in the southeastern United States exhibit disparities in relative frequency, morphological phenotype, and QoI sensitivity
Authors: Johnson Kendall , Douglas Rachel Kreis , Bradshaw Michael , Brannen Phillip , Jurick II Wayne , Villani Sara M.
Published: September 2024

Glomerella leaf spot (GLS), Glomerella fruit rot (GFR) and apple bitter rot (ABR), caused by Colletotrichum spp. are amongst the most devastating apple diseases in the southeastern United States. While several species have been identified as causal pathogens of GLS, GFR, and ABR, their relative frequency and fungicide sensitivity status in the southeastern U.S. is unknown. In total, 381 Colletotrichum isolates were obtained from symptomatic leaves and fruit from 18 conventionally managed apple orchards and two baseline populations in western North Carolina and Georgia in 2016 and 2017. Multilocus DNA sequence analysis revealed that C. chrysophilum was the predominant cause of GLS and GFR, and C. fioriniae was the causal agent of ABR. Baseline and commercial populations of Colletotrichum spp. were evaluated for sensitivity to pyraclostrobin and trifloxystrobin and no statistical differences in sensitivity between the two species were observed for conidial germination. However, EC50 values were significantly lower for C. fioriniae compared to C. chrysophilum for both fungicides regarding mycelial inhibition. Isolates recovered from commercial orchards revealed that 5 populations of C. chrysophilum and 1 population of C. fioriniae had reduced sensitivity to trifloxystrobin, and 1 C. fioriniae population had reduced sensitivity to pyraclostrobin via conidial germination assays. The cytb gene for 27 isolates of C. fioriniae, C. chrysophilum, and C. fructicola with different QoI sensitivities revealed the G143A mutation in a single isolate of C. chrysophilum with insensitivity to both fungicides. Results of these studies suggest that two Colletotrichum spp. predominantly cause GLS and ABR in the southeastern U.S. and that a reduction in sensitivity to some QoI fungicides may be responsible for control failures. This study also provides basis for monitoring shifts in QoI sensitivity in Colletotrichum spp. causing disease on apple in the southeastern U.S.
Enhancing an Experience-Based Patient-Initiated Mistreatment Training
Authors: Fraley Luke , Sheffield Virginia , Houchens Nathan
Published: September 2024

Problem

Mistreatment of health care workers and learners by patients and their families is prevalent at all levels of training. This mistreatment has negative consequences and disproportionately affects women and historically marginalized and excluded groups.

Approach

The authors designed and piloted a preliminary practice-based curriculum consisting of a discussion of literature, a framework for responding to mistreatment in the moment, and interactive simulated mistreatment encounters with trained patient actors. Feedback was generally positive, but participants consistently requested greater diversity in the representation of mistreatment. Using funds from the Josiah Macy Jr. Foundation Catalyst Award for Transformation in Graduate Medical Education, the authors expanded and improved the curriculum to meet the needs of a diverse population of learners. Effectiveness of the curriculum was measured using pre- and post-curriculum surveys.

Outcomes

The curriculum was delivered over multiple sessions from January 2022 to March 2024 with grant-funded interventions starting in January 2024. Participants included medical students, house officers, and faculty, and 678 participants completed pre-curriculum surveys. Upon implementation of grant-funded interventions, post-curriculum surveys showed improvements in respondents’ self-reported plan to use skills demonstrated in the session (4.76 to 4.85, P = .006) and plan to address mistreatment with their teams moving forward (4.75 to 4.81, P = .045).

Next Steps

All health care workers and learners deserve to feel safe, respected, and welcome in their work and in training. The foundation of this curriculum will support expansion to meet the needs of all patient-facing health care workers and learners at the pilot institution and beyond.
Characterizing the Use of Time-Limited Trials in Patients With Acute Respiratory Failure: A Prospective, Single-Center Observational Study
Authors: Moy Joy X. , Law Anica C. , Stalter Lily N. , Peliska Michael D. , Palmer Geralyn , Hanlon Bret M. , Mortenson Sean , Viglianti Elizabeth M. , Wiegmann Douglas A. , Kruser Jacqueline M.
Published: September 2024

IMPORTANCE:

A time-limited trial (TLT) is a collaborative plan among clinicians, patients, and families to use life-sustaining therapy for a defined duration, after which the patient’s response informs whether to continue care directed toward recovery or shift the focus toward comfort. TLTs are a promising approach to help navigate uncertainty in critical illness, yet little is known about their current use.

OBJECTIVES:

To characterize TLT use in patients with acute respiratory failure (ARF).

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS:

Prospective 12-month observational cohort study at an U.S. academic medical center of adult ICU patients with ARF receiving invasive mechanical ventilation for greater than or equal to 48 hours.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES:

Primary exposure was TLT participation, identified by patients’ ICU physician. Patient characteristics, care delivery elements, and hospital outcomes were extracted from the electronic medical record.

RESULTS:

Among 176 eligible patients, 36 (20.5%) participated in a TLT. Among 18 ICU attending physicians, nine (50%) participated in greater than or equal to 1 TLT (frequency 0–39% of patients cared for). Median TLT duration was 3.0 days (interquartile range [IQR], 3.0–4.5 d). TLT patients had a higher mean age (67.4 yr [sd, 12.0 yr] vs. 60.0 yr [sd, 16.0 yr]; p < 0.01), higher Charlson Comorbidity Index (5.1 [sd, 2.2] vs. 3.8 [sd, 2.6]; p < 0.01), and similar Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score (9.6 [sd, 3.3] vs. 9.5 [sd, 3.7]; p = 0.93), compared with non-TLT patients. TLT patients were more likely to die or be discharged to hospice (80.6% vs. 42.1%; p < 0.05) and had shorter ICU length of stay (median, 5.7 d [IQR, 4.0–9.0 d] vs. 10.3 d [IQR, 5.5–14.5 d]; p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE:

In this study, approximately one in five patients with ARF participated in a TLT. Our findings suggest TLTs are used primarily in patients near end of life but with substantial physician variation, highlighting a need for evidence to guide optimal use.
Controlled Burn: Managing the “Forest Fire” of Leaving a Professional Identity in Medical Education
Authors: McMains Kevin C. , Durning Steven J. , Meyer Holly S.
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

Professional identity formation is central to physicians' identity over their full careers. There is little guidance within military service on how to leave careers as clinician educator faculty in graduate medical education programs. The objective of our study was to explore how leaving this community of practice (COP) affects a clinician educator's professional identity.

Methods:

We used reflexive thematic analysis with Communities of Practice as a sensitizing construct. Fifteen semi-structured interviews were conducted among active-duty clinician educators at the point of their retirement from the military. Interview questions focused participants' lived experiences as clinician educators and professional identity changes leading to and resulting from the decision to retire.

Results:

We found the clinician educators' journey through a time of professional transition led to three connected themes: Loss Precedes Growth, Fallow Season—Liminal Space, and New Growth.

Discussion:

The experiences of military clinician educators retiring from active duty demonstrate how leaving one COP emanates across a range of professional identities. In addition, the decision to leave a professional COP can lead to a sense of disloyalty to that community. Normalizing this transition in a way that honors the community's values offers the opportunity to enable the decision to retire. Understanding retirement as a process that first involves identity loss, followed by the discomfort of a liminal space before achieving new growth creates the opportunity to engage in rituals that celebrate the service of departing community members, releasing them to grow into new identities.
Discontinuation of Cardiac Devices at or Near an Adult Patient’s End of Life
Authors: McClung John Arthur , Frishman William H. , Aronow Wilbert S.
Published: September 2024

Advances in medical technology have begun to blur the lines between life and death as well as the lines between appropriate and inappropriate therapy. This review addresses the charged issue of the management of cardiac devices at or near the end of a patient’s life, provides a summary of prior and current opinion with some historical context, and attempts to provide some modest guidance as to how to approach the various options to the patient’s best advantage. Modalities to be addressed include indwelling electronic devices, the left ventricular assistance device, and extracorporeal mechanical oxygenation, and includes available outcome data as well as ethical analysis from a number of commentators. The expected further increase in technical sophistication of these devices is expected to render the various aspects of device deactivation more and more complex over the course of the next few years such that careful attention to and knowledge about this issue will continue to be more and more necessary.
Development of Hand Skills Testing Methodology for O&P Curriculum
Authors: Roach Meghan , Sherman Jeremy
Published: September 2024

Introduction

In orthotics and prosthetics education, there is a need for objective means of tracking and assessing hand skills development. These specialized skills are essential for clinicians when fabricating and modifying patients’ devices but are not learned in the same manner as theoretical knowledge. This research is the foundational step in designing and implementing a Hand Skills Test (HST) methodology and rubric within the context of the Baylor College of Medicine’s Orthotics and Prosthetics program. This study addresses the challenge of objectively evaluating students’ hand skills acquisition and competency, which is a key component of clinical education.

Methods

Trials were administered at the onset and conclusion of participants’ first year at the program. Five tasks common in the field were selected: metal bending, riveting, plastic flaring, foam skiving, and plastic polishing. Rubrics were designed to assess the task products. After reviewing the grading process, revisions were made to increase efficiency, testing content validity, and interrater reliability.

Results

Rubric revision increased grader percent agreement minimally. Percent agreements for all evaluations were in the upper 80s, which is within the acceptable range. Participants’ HST minimum scores increased, and the variance of scores decreased scores between trials 1 and 2. The results follow expected trends, lending credibility to this assessment tool.

Conclusions

This research is the preliminary phase of the study, which will collect testing data for the Baylor College of Medicine’s Orthotics and Prosthetics program cohorts through 2029. Future investigations will examine trends in hand skill development during participants’ time at the program. The goal of this project is to create an assessment tool to help identify how these specialized skills are learned and refined.

Clinical Relevance

By better assessing and understanding the acquisition of hand skills, orthotics and prosthetics clinical education can be enhanced to best meet learners’ needs.
From Design to Clinical Translation: Unraveling Orthotist Perspectives on 3D Printed Accommodative Insoles
Authors: Carranza Christina , Nickerson Kimberly , Gagnon Leo , Muir Brittney C.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Custom accommodative insoles have become the gold standard for managing plantar pressures and reducing ulceration risk in persons with diabetes. With advances in 3D-printing technologies, methods of fabricating 3D-printed accommodative insoles have emerged. Clinician feedback is imperative to developing a 3D-printed accommodative insole that meets clinical needs and is more effective than the current standard of care (SoC).

Objective

The aim of this study was to inform the development of 3D-printed accommodative insoles by gaining clinician perspective on insole requirements and application of the digital workflow for seamless translation into the clinical setting.

Study Design

This article is a qualitative study.

Materials and Methods

Four focus groups with a total of 16 orthotists were held, prompting discussions on the current SoC accommodative insole and other 3D-printed insoles we have developed. Sessions were recorded and transcribed, and main themes were derived from transcriptions.

Results

Review and analysis of the transcripts resulted in four main themes: 1) reimbursement, 2) durability, 3) effectiveness, and 4) workflow application in clinic.

Conclusions

The responses showed areas to focus improvements on the 3D-printed insole design and ways to ease the transition into a clinical setting. Clinician support is crucial in the adoption of a new device to clinical practice. Their feedback is essential to ensuring the item meets the clinical needs and the workflow is not disruptive to the clinical setting.

Clinical Relevance

Understanding clinician perspective on current SoC disadvantages and shortcomings, areas for improvement in the 3D-printed insole fabrication, and what is feasible in clinic appointments will help inform insole design and aid in translating new 3D-printing technology to clinical care for improved patient outcomes.
A spontaneous rupture of a simple renal cyst complicated by hemorrhagic shock: a case report
Authors: Taouihar S. , Dergamoun H. , Bouabdallaoui A. , Hadzin Y. , El Gdaouni A. , Haddari FZ. , El Mekkaoui A. , Benlenda O. , Ziouziou I. , Nassik H.
Published: September 2024

Introduction and importance:

The spontaneous and non-traumatic rupture of renal cysts is a rare clinical condition, which can lead to hemorrhagic shock. In this paper, the authors report a case of spontaneous rupture of a renal cyst and discuss the main features of this condition.

Case report:

A 21-year-old patient presented urgently with hemorrhagic shock with no history or evidence of trauma. Physical examination revealed a swollen left lumbar fossa on palpation. Abdominal CT revealed an abundant retroperitoneal hematoma. Resuscitation measures were urgently initiated to ensure hemodynamic stabilization, followed by a hemostasis nephrectomy. The patient was stabilized, and subsequent postoperative recovery proceeded without complications. He was sent home on the seventh day following his admission.

Discussion:

Spontaneous retroperitoneal hemorrhages may stem from various pathologies, including simple renal cysts, and frequently manifest with Lenk’s triad. Wunderlich syndrome, an infrequent manifestation of such hemorrhages, necessitates prompt recognition and hemodynamic stabilization, with potential treatment including embolization or surgical intervention.

Conclusion:

Although simple renal cysts are generally asymptomatic, they can lead to serious complications such as hemorrhage that could be life-threatening without appropriate medical intervention. The treatment involves performing an emergency nephrectomy for hemostasis, along with implementing resuscitation measures.
Knowledge, attitude, and practice of patients, health care practitioners, and road-traffic safety regulators on patients’ return to driving policy after recovery from musculoskeletal disorders
Authors: Okafor Udoka Chris Arinze , Akinbo Sunday Rufus , Odebiyi Daniel Oluwafemi , Oghumu Saturday Nicholas
Published: September 2024

Background:

Returning to driving is a major concern for many individuals who had developed the driving skill before injury or disease. This study evaluated the knowledge, attitude, and practice of patients, health care practitioners, and road-traffic safety regulators on patients’ return to driving policy after recovery from musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).

Methods:

The study was a cross-sectional design. Participants were aged 18–80 years and comprised patients recovering from MSDs, health care practitioners, and road-traffic safety regulators. Questionnaires were distributed to patients who were managed for MSDs, health care practitioners involved in the management of MSDs, and road-traffic safety regulators. Questionnaires seeking relevant information on knowledge, attitude, and practice of patients’ return to driving for each category of participants were distributed in this wise: 320 questionnaires to patients, 355 to health care practitioners, and 300 to road-traffic safety regulators. Descriptive statistics of frequency and percentages were used to summarize the data, while χ2 was used to analyze associations among variables at P < 0.05.

Results:

The health care practitioners’ knowledge of return to driving policy after MSDs was fair (125, 41.8%); however, with a good practice score (259, 86.6%). Both the health care practitioners and road-traffic safety regulators had positive attitudes. The patients exhibited poor knowledge (122, 60.7%), negative attitude (126, 62.4%), and poor practice (160, 79.6%) toward return to driving regulation (P= 0.0001). One hundred seventy-four (58.2%) of the health care practitioner respondents reported determining patients’ return to driving after MSDs, while 137 (68.2%) patient respondents recommended health care practitioners and road-traffic safety regulators collaboration in patient’s return to driving.

Conclusions:

Return to driving policy after recovery from MSDs is a collaborative effort hinged on health care practitioners’ evaluation and a driving retest by the road-traffic safety regulators. Health care practitioners and road-traffic safety regulators have good to fair knowledge of patients return to driving policy, while patients have poor knowledge and negative attitudes to return to driving.
Study of the Diagnostic Accuracy Between the Position of the Articular Disc According to Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Arthroscopy Findings for Temporomandibular Disorders
Authors: Fernandez-Ferro Martin , Fletcher Lily Margaret , Calderón-Cruz Beatriz , Silva-Priegue Noelia , Fernández-Herrerín-Álvarez Juan , Fernández-Sanromán Jacinto
Published: September 2024

The aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate the diagnostic accuracy between the position of the disc in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) according to findings on magnetic resonance (MRI) imaging and the position of the disc depending on the “roofing” in arthroscopic evaluation in patients who underwent arthroscopy for a temporomandibular disorder (TMD). This relationship was analyzed in 298 patients diagnosed with internal derangements. The concordance between the 2 methods was evaluated using the κ coefficient. A significant agreement was observed between the findings in MRI and roofing in arthroscopy with an excellent concordance between the variables (κ=0.83, P<0.05). This indicates that both diagnostic methods are equally valid in the precise description and evaluation of the disc position for patients with a TMD undergoing arthroscopy.
Exploring 3D Printed Implants With Anti-Dropout Function to Overcome Time Constraints in Acute Orbital Fractures for Patient-Specific Implants
Authors: Park Dong Ha , Lee Jun Suk , Jung Yeon Kyo , Lim Hyoseob
Published: September 2024

Orbital wall reconstruction and implant insertion are crucial procedures for temporarily replacing the orbital walls in cases of significant fractures. Traditional methods using planar orbital implants have faced challenges owing to their flat shape, which increases the risk of dislocation from improper cuts and necessitates the use of screws in the orbital rim. This study aims to improve outcomes by employing customized 3-dimensional implants, thereby reducing complications and risk of dislocation resulting from external shock or implant weight postinsertion. This prospective study included 12 Korean individuals diagnosed with facial fractures (orbital wall injuries). Surgeries were performed on 12 patients, and follow-up CT scans were conducted on 10 of them. Therefore, the authors could only address the results for the 10 patients. The authors used bioactive glass ceramics and medical-grade poly-e-caprolactone to 3D print personalized implants, completing the manufacturing process in an average of 4.6 days. Computed tomography scans guided measurements of orbital volumes and exophthalmos. After surgery, we found that the difference values for bone orbital volumes (<0.1 mL) and exophthalmos (<1 mm except one) decreased compared with presurgery values. Independent t tests and Pearson correlation analysis revealed no significant changes between normal and affected sides in both phases. However, R-values increased in the postsurgery phase. Patients monitored postsurgery at 2 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months showed no complications. The 3D-printed patient-specific implants, customized to individual fracture shapes and featuring distinct implants and locking parts with notches, effectively restore bony orbital volumes and reduce exophthalmos. They have been proven feasible and applicable for reconstructing acute orbital wall fractures.
The Dieffenbach Flap for Reconstruction of Auricular Defects After Mohs Micrographic Surgery
Authors: Niksic Amor , Bennett Anne , Basagaoglu Berkay , Nissan Michael E. , Thornton James F.
Published: September 2024

Auricle reconstruction is a challenging problem in plastic surgery due to the ear’s prominent location, complex anatomy, and limited local tissue availability. The Dieffenbach flap, a folded postauricular flap, offers a viable flap for reconstruction of larger ear defects. Although the technique has been well defined in previous literature, there are few studies evaluating its outcomes and complications. The authors conducted a retrospective review of patients who underwent auricle reconstruction with the Dieffenbach flap by a single surgeon between 2016 and 2022. Data collection included demographics, medical history, cancer type, defect characteristics, postoperative care, outcomes, and complications. Univariable analyses using the Fischer exact test assessed the association between risk factors (smoking, anticoagulation use, and age) and complication rates, with P ≤ 0.05 considered statistically significant. A total of 40 patients were included in this study, with a mean age of 67.6 and a male prevalence of 77.5%. The mean defect size was 6.5 cm2, with most defects located on the superior helix. The most common complication was postoperative cellulitis (3 patients, 7.5%), followed by contour abnormality that required revision surgery (2 patients, 5.0%). History of smoking had a statistically significant association with complications (P = 0.013). Use of anticoagulants, or older age (defined as >70 years), had no significant association with complication risk. The Dieffenbach flap remains a reliable method for reconstruction of various auricle defects. It is low maintenance, well tolerated by patients, and involves minimal donor site morbidity without the need for cartilage.
NEK9 ablation rewires docetaxel resistance through induction of ERK-mediated cancer cell pyroptosis
Authors: Ansari Shamima Azma , Mohanty Sibasish , Mohapatra Pallavi , Rath Rachna , Muduli Dillip , Majumdar Saroj Kumar Das , Swain Rajeeb K. , Dash Rupesh
Published: September 2024

Docetaxel alone or in combination with other drugs is the most common chemotherapy regimen for several neoplasms including advanced OSCC. Unfortunately, chemoresistance leads to relapse and continued tumor growth. It is therefore important to explore the causative factors for docetaxel resistance. In this study, we performed a CRISPR-based kinome screening that identified Never In Mitosis Gene-A Related Kinase-9 (NEK9) as a major player of docetaxel resistance in OSCC, prostate, and pancreatic cancer lines. NEK9 expression was upregulated in tumor samples of chemotherapy non-responders compared to responder OSCC patients. Our validation data suggests selectively knocking out NEK9 sensitizes cancer cells to docetaxel. Mechanistically, we found that ablation of NEK9 induces DNA damage, activating ERK(p-T202/Y204) that leads to Gasdermin-E mediated Cancer Cell pyroptosis. The in-vitro kinase activity assay identified fostamatinib as a potent inhibitor of NEK9. The xenograft data suggest that fostamatinib restores docetaxel sensitivity and facilitates a significant reduction of tumor burden. Overall, our data suggests a novel combination of fostamatinib and docetaxel needs further clinical investigation in advanced OSCC.
Mosaic loss of chromosome Y characterizes late-onset rheumatoid arthritis and contrasting associations of polygenic risk score based on age at onset.
Authors: Uchiyama Shunsuke , Ishikawa Yuki , Ikari Katsunori , Honda Suguru , Hikino Keiko , Tanaka Eiichi , Kamatani Yoichiro , Gono Takahisa , Genovese Giulio , Kuwana Masataka , Terao Chikashi
Published: September 2024

Objectives: mosaic chromosomal alterations (mCAs) increase with age and are associated with age-related diseases. The association between mCAs and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), particularly late-onset rheumatoid arthritis (LORA), has not been explored. Methods: mCAs were detected in peripheral blood samples from two independent Japanese datasets (Set 1:2,107 RA cases and 86,998 controls; Set 2:2,359 RA cases and 86,998 controls). The associations between mCAs and RA were evaluated in each dataset using logistic regression models and meta-analysis. In each dataset, we evaluated the effect sizes of mosaic loss of Y (mLOY) and polygenic risk score (PRS) of RA in males and subsequently performed a meta-analysis. The interaction between mLOY and PRS was assessed. These models were applied separately to RA, LORA, and young-onset RA (YORA). Results: mLOY increased significantly in LORA (OR=1.43, P=0.0070). We observed a negative association between mLOY and YORA (OR=0.66, P=0.0034). On the other hand, we found consistently negative associations of autosomal mCAs or mosaic loss of X (mLOX) with RA, LORA, and YORA. The effect sizes of PRS were lower for LORA than for YORA. mLOY with a high cell fraction strengthened the association between PRS and LORA (P=0.0036), whereas the association with YORA was independent of mLOY. Conclusion: LORA was characterised by the presence of a high burden of mLOY. The observed interaction between mLOY and PRS in LORA, but not in YORA, supports different gene-environment interactions between the subsets. These data suggest that distinct pathophysiological mechanisms underlie the development of LORA and YORA.
Trans-Ancestry GWAS of Hot Flashes Reveals Potent Treatment Target and Overlap with Psychiatric Disorders
Authors: Werwath Kathryn E. , Lawn Rebecca B. , Salem Madeleine T. , Li Tayden , Mitchell Brittany L. , Shen Hanyang , Gordon Scott D. , Kung Benson , Stafford Ciera , Vemuri Mytilee , Ratanatharathorn Andrew , Meijsen Joeri , Shadyab Aladdin H. , Kooperberg Charles , Koenen Karestan C. , Crandall Carolyn J. , Martin Nicholas G. , Duncan Laramie E.
Published: September 2024

Background

Most women experience hot flashes (hot flushes) during the menopause transition. Menopausal hot flashes typically persist for years. For a sizeable minority of women, hot flashes are severe and substantially impairing. It is worthwhile to further investigate the genetic underpinnings of hot flashes.

Method

We conducted the largest trans-ancestry genome-wide association study (GWAS) of hot flashes available to date (N=149,560). We used self-assessment of hot flashes in the Nurses’ Health Study, Nurses’ Health Study II, Women’s Health Initiative, and Queensland Institute of Medical Research samples (total n=42,489). In one sample (UK Biobank, n=107,071) direct assessment of hot flashes was not available, so menopausal hormone therapy was used as a proxy variable. We estimated the heritability of hot flashes and genetic correlations with psychiatric phenotypes using linkage disequilibrium score regression (LDSR).

Results

In component analyses and our trans-ancestry meta-analysis, the top locus was on chromosome 4 in the neurokinin 3 receptor gene (TACR3, position 104,556,732, trans-ancestryp=7.2×10−41). A second novel locus was identified (LINC02428, p=3.5×10−8). Gene results implicatedTACR3, GRID1, NUDT4, andPHF21B. Using the hot flash GWAS meta-analysis (n=42,489; i.e., no proxy variable), SNP heritability was estimated:h2liab=.08 (h2SNP=.04,se=.02). Genetic correlations were statistically significant between hot flashes and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD,rg=0.25,p=0.01), schizophrenia (rg=0.17,p=0.02), and depression (rg=0.21,p=0.01).

Discussion

These genomic findings are consistent with independent, robust basic science research which led to a novel treatment for hot flashes, namely, neurokinin 3 receptor antagonists. This new class of hot flash drugs blocks the receptor (neurokinin 3 receptor) coded for by the top locus for hot flashes (TACR3). This GWAS of hot flashes provides an uncommonly clear example of how GWAS findings can point to potent treatment targets for complex brain phenotypes. We also found that the proxy variable (menopausal hormone therapy) pointed to the same target (TACR3), and that exclusively intronic and intergenic variants signaled this target.
Stabilization of U
5f2
configuration in
UTe2
through U
6d
dimers in the presence of Te2 chains
Authors: Christovam Denise S. , Sundermann Martin , Marino Andrea , Takegami Daisuke , Falke Johannes , Dolmantas Paulius , Harder Manuel , Gretarsson Hlynur , Keimer Bernhard , Gloskovskii Andrei , Haverkort Maurits W. , Elfimov Ilya , Zwicknagl Gertrud , Andreev Alexander V. , Havela Ladislav , Bordelon Mitchell M. , Bauer Eric D. , Rosa Priscila F. S. , Severing Andrea , Tjeng Liu Hao
Published: September 2024

We investigate the topological superconductor candidate UTe2 using high-resolution valence-band resonant inelastic x-ray scattering at the U M4,5 edges. We observe atomiclike low-energy excitations that support the correlated nature of this unconventional superconductor. These excitations originate from the U 5f2 configuration, which is unexpected since the short Te2-Te2 distances exclude Te2 being 2−. By utilizing the photoionization cross-section dependence of the photoemission spectra in combination with band structure calculations, we infer that the stabilization of the U 5f2 configuration is due to the U 6d bonding states in the U dimers acting as a charge reservoir. Our results emphasize that the description of the physical properties should commence with a 5f2 ansatz.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Propulsion of a chiral swimmer in viscoelastic fluids
Authors: Kobayashi Takuya , Molina John J. , Yamamoto Ryoichi
Published: September 2024

Microswimmers often use chirality to generate translational movement from rotation motion, exhibiting distinct behaviors in complex fluids compared to simple Newtonian fluids. However, the underlying mechanism remains incompletely understood. In this study, we elucidate the precise mechanisms underlying the distinct behaviors of microswimmers in Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluids. We show that the enhanced speed of chiral swimmers is attributed to the Weissenberg effect induced by normal stress differences resulting from chiral flows. Additionally, we identify swimmer-specific normal stress differences in a viscoelastic fluid and demonstrate that swimming speed varies depending on whether the swimmer acts as a pusher or a puller. Moreover, we investigate the hydrodynamic interactions between a pair of chiral squirmers. When the squirmers are aligned parallel (perpendicular) to their swimming axis, they tend to separate (approach). These findings deepen our comprehension of the rheological properties of viscoelastic fluids containing microswimmers, promising advancements in various applications.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Historical high prices and seasoned equity offerings: evidence from China
Authors: Xia Yu , Guo Shuxin
Published: September 2024

Purpose

We are the first to investigate the relationship between seasoned equity offerings (SEOs) and anchoring on historical high prices in China.

Design/methodology/approach

We use the ratio of the recent closing price to its historical high in the previous 12–60 months (anchoring-high-price ratio) to study its impact on the market timing of SEOs.

Findings

Empirical results show that the anchoring-high-price ratio significantly and positively affects the probability of additional stock issuances. Contrary to the USA market, the Chinese stock market reacts negatively to the SEOs at historical highs. Moreover, the anchoring-high-price ratio exacerbates the negative effect of announcements and leads to long-term underperformance. Finally, we investigate the impact of the anchoring-high-price ratio on a company’s capital structure, showing that the additional issuance anchoring on historical highs reduces the company’s leverage ratio in the long run. Overall, our findings support the anchoring theory and can help understand better the anchoring behavior of managers and the company’s decision on additional stock issuances.

Originality/value

We are the first to use the anchoring-high-price ratio to study the timing of SEOs. We find that the anchoring-high-price ratio positively affects the probability of SEOs. Unlike the USA, the Chinese stock market reacts negatively to SEOs at high prices. SEOs anchoring on historical highs reduce a firm’s leverage ratio in the long run. Finally, our results support the anchoring theory.
The impact of leadership behaviors on organizational innovative performance and learning in AI-driven Industry 5.0 environments
Authors: Alshaibani Elham , Bakir Ali , Al-Atwi Amer
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Our aim was to elucidate how leaders’ behaviors may impact innovation and organizational learning in a fast-changing, human-centric and sustainability responsive AI-driven Industry 5.0 environment.

Design/methodology/approach

An unsystematic narrative review of relevant literature was conducted focusing on the influence of leadership behaviors on innovation and learning in Industry 5.0 environment.

Findings

We found that leadership behaviors that align with Industry 5.0 demands and values must emphasize collaboration, empathy, and continuous learning. The translation of leaders’ actions into desired outcomes requires a psychologically safe work environment, ensuing team cohesion, empowering team members, promoting a learning culture, engendering trust, and vision and goal alignment.

Research limitations/implications

Being aware of leadership qualities required in Industry 5.0 environment, characterized by machine–human collaboration, sustainable innovations, and continuous learning, enables organizations to focus their recruitment efforts on leaders’ characteristics that align with this environment. It also helps them design suitable leaders’ training and development programs. This study requires further expansion and empirical testing to validate the proposed model.

Originality/value

There is a plethora of studies on leadership in various contexts; however, there is very little research on the type of leadership that maybe effective in the fast changing and AI-driven Industry 5.0 environment. The findings of this paper shed light on such a leadership.
Moderating effects of country-level institutional quality and cultural dimensions on CSR-stock price crash risk relationship: a meta-analysis study
Authors: Ali Waris , Wilson Jeffrey , Al-Kwifi Osama Sam , ElAlfy Amr
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study uses meta-analysis to examine the relationship between corporate sustainability reporting (CSR) and stock price crash risk (SPCR) and to discern the moderating effects of country-level institutional quality and cultural dimensions on this link.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used mean correlation coefficients to test the relationship between CSR and SPCR and meta-regressions to test the moderating effects. The analysis considers 65 effect sizes from 24 empirical studies.

Findings

The results showed that CSR reduces the chances of SPCR. The inverse relationship between CSR and SPCR is stronger in masculine, high power distance and long-term oriented cultures and is less pronounced in individualistic, uncertainty avoidance and indulgent cultures. The inverse relationship is also stronger in countries where high-quality institutions exist.

Research limitations/implications

This study is based on correlation coefficient analysis and excludes studies publishing only regression results. Furthermore, it provides guidance to lessen SPCR. Findings suggest that such initiatives may mitigate the risk of stock price crashes for firms. Through meta-analysis, this research investigates the correlation between environmental, social and governance (ESG) disclosure and stock price crash occurrences, offering insights with significant implications for the European financial landscape and globally.

Originality/value

This is a pioneer meta-analysis that investigates the link between CSR and SPCR and the moderating effects of country-level institutional quality and cultural dimensions. Our study sheds light on the potential impact of promoting a sustainable and responsible business environment in Europe through comprehensive ESG disclosure under the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD).
Does official development assistance (ODA) cause the Dutch disease in developing countries
Authors: Nguyen Phuc Hien , Nguyen Viet Dung , Le Thi Kim Xuyen , Nguyen Van Cuong , Nguyen Van Minh
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate whether official development assistance (ODA) inflows to developing countries (lower-middle and low income) can cause the symptoms of Dutch disease or not.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applies the methodology of dynamic panel data estimation with a one-step system generalized methods of moment (GMM) for the sample of 59 developing countries from 2001 to 2019.

Findings

The results indicate that ODA (as a percentage of gross domestic product (GDP)) rises by 1%, the real effective exchange rate (REER) appreciates by 0.252%. This finding reveals that these selected developing countries have faced the symptoms of Dutch disease. The countries with the higher ODA ratio have a higher effect of the Dutch disease, and the managed floating exchange rate regime is the lowest impacted, when compared to the fixed and flexible exchange rate.

Practical implications

The selected countries are recommended to use ODA inflows right and efficiently. These ODA inflows should be invested in productive sectors or support for production rather than in consumption. The managed float exchange rate regime is applied to reduce the symptom of Dutch disease for the selected countries. The good cooperation of monetary and fiscal policies is important to absorb the huge ODA inflow and sterilize the adverse effects of the disease.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the literature and empirical of the Dutch disease. An adverse effect of the huge ODA inflow to the developing countries appreciated of the real exchange rate and caused the symptom of the dutch disease.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-12-2022-0777
Economic growth and sustainable development: evidence from OIC countries
Authors: Ul Haq Inzamam , Huo Chunhui , Saba Irum
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the dynamic relationship between economic growth and sustainable development, integrating the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) in 22 Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member countries across income groups.

Design/methodology/approach

Using annual data between 1990 and 2022, the authors apply the cross-correlation coefficient (CCC) approach of Narayan et al. (Economic Modeling, 2016, 53, 388–397) to examine the lead/lag relationship between GDP per capita and sustainable development. This study further validates the findings through a panel Granger causality test and a fixed panel regression model.

Findings

This research provides evidence of a U-shaped EKC for only 1 out of 22 (5%) OIC countries. For 13 out of the 22 (59%) OIC countries, increasing income growth is expected to enhance sustainable development in the future. The results show that as income levels rise, there will be a more significant decline in sustainable development for high-income OIC countries in the future than for both middle-income groups, contradicting the EKC hypothesis. The findings from the panel Granger causality and panel regression models also support the CCC results.

Originality/value

This study proposes a reverse version of the EKC hypothesis and contributes to the literature on economic growth and environmental sustainability. With increasing economic growth, the results can assist OIC member governments and policy-makers in designing tailored policies and practical measures for future sustainable development.
Bridging the health literacy gap through AI chatbot design: the impact of gender and doctor cues on chatbot trust and acceptance
Authors: Jin Eunjoo , Ryoo Yuhosua , Kim WooJin , Song Y. Greg
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Notwithstanding their potential benefits especially for individuals with low health literacy, users are still somewhat skeptical about the reliability of healthcare chatbots. The present study aims to address this challenge by investigating strategies to enhance users’ cognitive and emotional trust in healthcare chatbots. Particularly, this study aims to understand the effects of chatbot design cues in increasing trust and future chatbot use intention for low health literacy users.

Design/methodology/approach

We conducted two experimental studies with a final sample of 327 (Study 1) and 241 (Study 2). Three different chatbots were developed (Chatbot design: Bot vs Male-doctor vs Female-doctor). Participants were asked to have a medical consultation with the chatbot. Participants self-reported their health literacy scores. The PROCESS model 7 was used to analyze the hypotheses.

Findings

The results showed that the female-doctor cues elicited greater cognitive and emotional trust, whereas the male-doctor cues only led to greater cognitive trust (vs bot-like cues). Importantly, this study found that users’ health literacy is a significant moderating factor in shaping cognitive and emotional trust. The results indicated that both the female and male-doctor cues’ positive effects on cognitive trust were significant for those with lower levels of health literacy. Furthermore, the positive effect of the female-doctor cues on emotional trust was also significant only for those whose health literacy level was low. The increased cognitive and emotional trust led to greater future intention to use the chatbot, confirming significant moderated mediation effects.

Originality/value

Despite the strong economic and educational benefits of healthcare chatbots for low health literacy users, studies examining how healthcare chatbot design cues affect low health literate users surprisingly remained scarce. The results of this study suggest that healthcare chatbots can be a promising technological intervention to narrow the health literacy gap when aligned with appropriate design cues.
Subjective well-being perceptions of Portuguese Public Relations practitioners: a gender and stages of life analysis
Authors: Cunha Maria João , Cruz Carla , Belim Célia
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This research aims to explore perceptions of subjective well-being (SWB) in public relations (PR) practitioners, focusing on dimensions of job satisfaction, networking, relationships and work–life balance, while addressing the under-researched area of gender and age – related to stages of life – disparities in SWB within the PR industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing a mixed-methods sequential explanatory design, this study utilised a survey, followed by semi-structured interviews to investigate SWB among PR professionals in Portugal, considering gender and stages of life differences.

Findings

Using a gendered and stages of life lens, this study found nuanced perceptions of SWB among Portuguese PR professionals. Older women showed higher emotional well-being but lower work evaluations than men, while young professionals exhibited less gender disparities in SWB. Men reported greater job satisfaction, emphasising passion, while women faced challenges like work overload and valued recognition. Gender differences were seen in networking, with men favouring teamwork and women valuing friendships for career advancement. Work–life balance issues, especially among older women, related to mental health.

Originality/value

This study contributes to filling the research gap regarding SWB in the PR industry, particularly in Portugal, offering insights into gender and stages of life dynamics that influence SWB perceptions, thereby informing strategies for enhancing well-being and productivity in PR workplaces.
Optimisation of soft camel cheese production coagulated with green carob extract using response surface methodology: Yield, physicochemical, microbial, sensorial, and rheological properties
Authors: Omrani Abir , Sboui Amel , Hannachi Hédia , Hamouda Maha , Dbara Mohamed , Hammadi Mohamed , Khorchani Touhami , Maqsood Sajid
Published: September 2024

This study addresses the processing limitations of camel milk for production of textured camel milk cheese by utilising the green carob extract (GCE) as a novel coagulant. The response surface methodology was employed to assess the impact of GCE on the cheese quality parameters. Maximal soft camel cheese yield (24.1%) was achieved using 12% (v/v) of GCE, coagulation at 53.6°C, and incubation time of 9 h 52 min. Compositional analysis revealed the richness of soft camel cheese in dry matter (33.8 ± 81.61%), carbohydrates (3.66 ± 0.45%), and calcium (632.83 ± 68.43 mg/100 g). The addition of GCE enhanced the cheese's flavour and texture.