bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Green Cystoscopy: Does Minimizing the Use of Drapes Increase Infection Rates?
Authors: Melnyk Alexandra I. , Mowers Erin E. , Janmey Isabel , Meyn Leslie A. , Woods Noe , Moalli Pamela
Published: November 2024

Importance

The U.S. health care system has an enormous carbon footprint made worse by the escalating use of single-use supplies. Emerging evidence suggests that smaller surgical fields (“green” draping) may represent a safe alternative to traditional draping.

Objectives

The aim of the study was to determine if the proportion of cases treated for culture-proven urinary tract infection (UTI) within 2 weeks of operating room cystoscopy after the green draping protocol implementation is noninferior to preprotocol cases. Secondary objectives included risk factors for UTI and waste and cost savings.

Study Design

A pre-post implementation noninferiority study was performed from 2021 to 2023 in a urogynecology division at an academic medical center. The green draping protocol eliminated the use of top drapes, leg drapes, and gowns; blue towels were permitted per the surgeon’s discretion. All minor cystoscopy cases were included.

Results

The cohort included 240 patients. Treatment of culture-proven UTI in the green cohort was noninferior to the preprotocol group (9 [7.5%] vs 7 [5.8%], P < 0.05). The odds of a culture-proven UTI were higher with history of recurrent UTI (odds ratio = 7.02), interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (odds ratio = 4.33), and older age (odds ratio per 5-year increase = 1.21). Approximately $1,403.92 (2023 USD) was saved, and 165 pounds of waste was diverted from the landfill.

Conclusions

A green draping protocol is noninferior to standard draping with respect to rates of postoperative culture-positive UTIs. Clinicians may use a smaller operating room field to decrease the carbon footprint without compromising quality of care.
Assessing Pharmacokinetics and Safety of Therapeutic Alpha-1-Microglobulin in First-in-Human Kidney Transplantation: A Noncomparative Open-Label Multiple-Dose Phase 1b Study
Authors: Nordström Johan E. A. , Wennberg Lars M. , Nowak Greg , Larsson Tobias E. , Thuresson Sara J. , Reusch Michael
Published: November 2024

Background.

RMC-035 is a modified version of alpha-1-microglobulin, an endogenous protein developed as a renoprotective agent. Its intended use is to reduce the risk of irreversible loss of kidney function in cardiac surgery patients and to reduce delayed graft function in kidney transplant recipients. This first-in-human study aimed to evaluate the pharmacokinetics and safety of RMC-035 in kidney transplant recipients.

Methods.

Eight living-donor kidney transplant recipients were included in 2 dose cohorts. The study drug RMC-035 was administered starting with the first dose during transplantation. Four additional doses were administered once daily following transplantation. In the first cohort, all 5 doses of RMC-035 were equal, whereas in the second cohort, the last 3 doses were doubled. Safety monitoring, laboratory tests, and pharmacokinetic measurements were performed according to protocol for 4 d post-transplantation and during the 90-d follow-up period.

Results.

All 5 administrations of the study drug were completed in 5 out of 8 treated participants. Pharmacokinetic concentrations were approximately dose proportional, and AUC0–24h decreased between the first and fifth doses, reflecting improved kidney function and RMC-035 renal clearance over time. No accumulation was observed between the administrations. No clinically significant changes were observed in the hematological or biochemical laboratory parameters, electrocardiogram findings, or vital signs. A total of 22 treatment-emergent adverse events (AEs) were reported in 6 subjects. Mild and transient AEs suggestive of infusion-related reactions, such as chills, were reported in 5 patients. There was a clinically significant reduction in serum creatinine levels, reflecting post-transplant improvement in kidney function.

Conclusions.

Based on the safety data obtained from 8 subjects in the 2 dose cohorts treated with RMC-035, the drug was considered safe. Safety and AE profiles were in line with expectations of the target population, and infusion-related reactions were short-lived and manageable. Dose-limiting toxicity signals were not observed.
Unveiling Nucleosome Dynamics: A Comparative Study Using All-Atom and Coarse-Grained Simulations Enhanced by Principal Component Analysis
Authors: MOULICK ABHIK GHOSH , Patel Rutika , Onyema Augustine Chimezie , Loverde Sharon
Published: November 2024

This study investigates nucleosome dynamics using both all-atom and coarse-grained (CG) molecular dynamics simulations, focusing on the SIRAH force field. Simulations are performed for two nucleosomal DNA sequences, ASP and Widom-601, over six microseconds at physiological salt concentrations. Comparative analysis of structural parameters, such as groove widths and base pair geometries, reveals good agreement between atomistic and CG models, though CG simulations exhibit broader conformational sampling and greater breathing motion of DNA ends. Principal component analysis (PCA) is applied to DNA structural parameters, revealing multiple free energy minima, especially in CG simulations. These findings highlight the potential of the SIRAH CG force field for studying large-scale nucleosome dynamics, offering insights into DNA repositioning and sequence-dependent behavior.
Sticky enzymes: increased metabolic efficiency via substrate-dependent enzyme clustering
Authors: Martínez-Calvo Alejandro , Zhou Jello , Zhang Yaojun , Wingreen Ned S.
Published: November 2024

Coclustering of subsequent enzymes in a pathway can accelerate the processing of metabolic intermediates, with benefits including increased pathway fluxes, reduced toxicity, and sensitive branch-point regulation. While the optimal organization of such clusters has been explored theoretically, little is known about how to achieve such organization inside cells. Here we propose that phase-separating enzymes can self-organize into nearly-optimally sized and spaced clusters, provided that their “stickiness” is regulated by local substrate availability. In a nutshell, enzyme clusters only form when and where they are needed to process substrate. We study a mathematical model that implements this scheme for simple metabolic pathways, including all thermodynamic constraints. We find that pathway fluxes can be increased by 50 to 1000-fold and toxic metabolites can be decreased by 10 to 100-fold, at realistic enzyme densities. Finally, we discuss how enzyme “stickiness” could be allosterically regulated. This study presents a self-organization strategy that goes beyond current paradigms for natural and engineered enzyme clusters, and thus represents a motivating challenge to the fields of synthetic biology and metabolic engineering.
Stick of Sticks: Structural Features of the Amyloidogenic Peptide-DNA Complex
Authors: Arzamastsev G.A. , Zabrodskaya Y.A. , Garmay Yu.P. , Ivanova N.S. , Vinogradova D.S. , Arutyunyan A.V. , Verlov N.A. , Burdakov V.S. , Baymukhametov T.N. , Konevega A.L. , Ivankov O.I. , Gorshkova E.Yu. , Egorov V.V.
Published: November 2024

The search for peptides that can specifically bind to regulatory regions in DNA is a necessary step for creating drugs that can regulate gene expression. The work studies the peculiarities of binding of a model peptide, which carries an ionic self-complementary motif and is capable of forming amyloid-like fibrils, with model double-stranded DNA. The stoichiometric ratios of the components of the complex were found using the retardation method in agarose gel. Using microscale thermophoresis, it was shown that the peptide in the oligomeric amyloid-like state is capable of binding to model 45-bp double-stranded DNA, with a micromolar equilibrium dissociation constant. Using electron and atomic force microscopy, the morphology of peptide-DNA complexes was studied; using dynamic light scattering and nanoparticle tracking analysis, as well as small-angle neutron scattering, the spatial parameters of the resulting DNA-peptide complexes were characterized. Molecular dynamics simulations showed that the arginine side chains of the peptide are prone to interact with guanine nitrogenous bases. It was shown that the formation of peptide-dsDNA complexes interferes with the operation of restriction endonucleases that have guanine-cytosine pairs in the recognition center, which is consistent with the results of prediction of interaction sites obtained using computer modeling. The results of the work can be used in the development of peptides capable of interacting with functional regions of DNA, as well as in the development of new carriers for transfection of DNA constructs.
Revealing the Microscopic Mechanism of Elementary Vortex Pinning in Superconductors
Authors: Chen C. , Liu Y. , Chen Y. , Hu Y. N. , Zhang T. Z. , Li D. , Wang X. , Wang C. X. , Lu Z. Y. W. , Zhang Y. H. , Zhang Q. L. , Dong X. L. , Wang R. , Feng D. L. , Zhang T.
Published: November 2024

Vortex pinning is a crucial factor that determines the critical current of practical superconductors and enables their diverse applications. However, the underlying mechanism of vortex pinning has long been elusive, lacking a clear microscopic explanation. Here, using high-resolution scanning tunneling microscopy, we studied single vortex pinning induced by point defect in layered FeSe-based superconductors. We found the defect-vortex interaction drives low-energy vortex bound states away from EF, creating a “mini” gap that effectively lowers the system energy and enhances pinning. By measuring the local density of states, we directly obtained the elementary pinning energy and estimated the pinning force via the spatial gradient of pinning energy. The results are consistent with bulk critical current measurement. Furthermore, we showed that a general microscopic quantum model incorporating defect-vortex interaction can naturally capture our observation. It suggests that the local pairing near pinned vortex core is actually enhanced compared to unpinned vortex, which is beyond the traditional understanding that nonsuperconducting regions pin vortices. Our study thus unveils a general microscopic mechanism of vortex pinning in superconductors and provides insights for enhancing the critical current of practical superconductors.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Marketing agility during deep uncertainty using a sensemaking perspective: the performance influence of digitization and government intervention in retail healthcare
Authors: Eckstein Gary , Shrestha Anup , Russo Fiona
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Community pharmacies are critical healthcare providers facing unprecedented trading conditions during deep uncertainty. As such, this study aims to inform scholars and practitioners about the efficiency of marketing agility in enhancing firm performance while considering the mediating roles of government interventions and digitization.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual framework is constructed and validated. Six hypotheses are tested using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), with 254 responses attained via a questionnaire.

Findings

Marketing agility facilitated firm performance and digitization. However, findings elucidate the impact of government involvement and underscore the necessity for re-evaluating conventional metrics for firm performance amid deep uncertainty.

Originality/value

The efficacy of marketing agility has been acknowledged amidst deep uncertainty, yet more research is needed within the retail healthcare sector. This research addresses this gap.
Meaningful app-work? Exploring meaningful work experiences of food delivery couriers in Poland
Authors: Pieczka Aneta , Miszczyński Miłosz
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The rise of app-based work in the gig economy, particularly within the food delivery sector, challenges traditional employment paradigms and raises questions about the potential for achieving meaningful work experiences. This study explores whether such work can be considered meaningful for food delivery couriers in Poland.

Design/methodology/approach

This research adopts a qualitative, case-study approach, conducting 30 in-depth interviews with food delivery couriers in Poland. The study investigates how these workers perceive the meaningfulness of their work, focusing on the interplay between subjective and organisational aspects of their work.

Findings

The findings reveal that despite the precarious nature of app-based work, couriers often find meaningful experiences through perceived autonomy, gamified control and the physical demands of their job. The study highlights the dual nature of app work, where the same elements that contribute to worker engagement and a sense of independence also perpetuate exploitation and job insecurity.

Research limitations/implications

The study’s reliance on a convenience sample of 30 interviews conducted via social media may not represent the broader population of food delivery couriers. Future research should expand the sample size and include a more diverse range of participants to improve generalisability.

Practical implications

The insights from this study can inform platform designers and policymakers to create more supportive environments for gig workers. Enhancing algorithmic transparency, providing better social protections and implementing fair gamification strategies can help mitigate the negative aspects of gig work and improve job satisfaction.

Social implications

The study underscores the need for regulatory changes to ensure minimum guaranteed earnings and health and safety provisions for gig workers. By fostering a supportive and transparent work environment, the gig economy can better contribute to worker well-being and social equity.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the limited body of literature on meaningful work within the gig economy, particularly focusing on food delivery couriers in Poland. It provides new insights into how workers create and perceive meaningful work in a highly digitised and algorithmically managed environment.
A combined approach of design for Six Sigma, generic product development process and ergonomics-safety philosophy to reduce musculoskeletal disorder problems
Authors: Parvez Md Shohel , Saha Palash
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to decrease musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) problems using a combined approach including design for Six Sigma, generic product development process, and ergonomic-safety philosophies.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 550 students voluntarily participated in this study. Kolmogorov–Smirnov and t-tests were used to analyze the collected anthropometry. A cause-and-effect diagram, Pareto’s chart, a brainstorming session, and a priority matrix were also used to extract the 22 design parameters of the product. Moreover, Cronbach’s alpha values were determined to verify the validity of qualitative and quantitative data.

Findings

Results showed that students are at a high risk of developing MSD issues. The most serious MSD problems among the students were neck pain (74%), back pain (73%), muscle and joint pain (67%), knee pain (57%), leg pain (54%), etc. Besides, all anthropometrics of males are higher than females except Hip Breadth. Among 12 anthropometries, two measurements and one measurement showed statistical significance at p < 0.01 and p < 0.05, respectively. Six design parameters of the mounted desktop (Seat Height, Desk Height, Seat to Desk Clearance, Seat Width, Seat Depth, and Backrest Height) are the most crucial design parameters to design and develop the product.

Practical implications

The proposed design of the mounted desktop can be used in different tertiary educational institutes to reduce MSDs among students.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first attempt that introduces a combined approach to reduce MSD issues by applying Six Sigma, a generic product development process, and ergonomics-safety philosophy to design and measurement of 22 design parameters of mounted desktop for university students.
Windows of opportunity for unrelated diversification: a patent data analysis of the field of neurotechnology
Authors: Khunakornbodintr Sirinant , Lv Ping , Hain Daniel Stefan
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the potential of low-income countries to mitigate technological lock-ins by exploiting windows of opportunity (WOOs). Given their inherent inclination toward path dependency, these countries often face challenges in diversifying beyond their established technological trajectories. We examine the pivotal role of adopting shorter cycle times of technologies (CTTs) in opening technological WOO, triggering unrelated diversification and accelerating technological catch-up.

Design/methodology/approach

Using fixed-effect regression models, we analyze country-level patent data within the neurotechnology domain from 1995 to 2021 – a period marked by significant technological change since 2010. Our focus lies in comparing diversification and catch-up trends between low-income and high-income countries, while evaluating the performance of CTT.

Findings

Our findings reveal that as low-income countries increase their knowledge complexity (KC), they tend to be locked into existing technological paths. To mitigate lock-in risks, they can strategically adopt technologies with shorter CTTs. These technologies act as catalysts, opening up technological WOOs and stimulating unrelated diversification. KC presents a double-edged sword in the catch-up process, but unrelated diversification can eliminate this dilemma.

Practical implications

Our study introduces the KC-CTT framework, proposing practical strategies to enhance and sustain countries’ competitive advantages.

Originality/value

Diversification and catch-up emerge from two separate bodies of literature but present a conceptual overlap. This research bridges the gap between the two literatures by investigating the impact of CTT as their predictor variable.
Social protection comparison across the world: a study of fiscal, structural and institutional performance discrepancies
Authors: Ul Mustafa Ahmed Raza , Ul-Haq Jabbar , Dahri Nisar Ahmed , Mahesar Rameez Ali
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Social protection states the public-mandated (strategies and programmes) to address the vulnerability and risk among poor and near-poor households. Social protection must not only help people meet their basic needs but also contribute to the long-term well-being and broader societal goals of equity, social justice and empowerment. The role of social protection in achieving these goals has not been adequately documented. This paper examines the performance of the social protection mechanism from the perspective of the regional structural and institutional performance indicators. Social protection outlay dynamics are synthesized in the structural and institutional conducts.

Design/methodology/approach

A world regional comparability is made by considering the panel dataset for the time interval 1995–2020. In empirics, the unconditional and conditional ranks are constructed, and regression analyses are made subject to (1) the fiscal constraint of social protection, (2) structural performance indicators and (3) the institutional performance indicators of the targeted regions across the globe. The fully modified-ordinary least square (FM-OLS) method is used to construct the ranks.

Findings

The rank analysis demonstrates that the developed regions (i.e. Europe, Central Asia and North America) have relatively good welfare standards and fiscal capacity for social protection drives compared to the developing/underdeveloped regions (i.e. Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia). The structural/institutional performance indicators have shown their significance in determining/utilizing their budget for social protection and maintaining welfare standards. Interestingly, most developed regions are relatively reluctant to maintain the structural/institutional performance for the determination/execution of the funds for social protection as compared to the developing and underdeveloped regions.

Practical implications

In policy discourse, this research suggests that governments must make some market operations to enhance their regions’ structural and institutional performance to get better outcomes of social protection spending in the form of attractive welfare standards.

Originality/value

Multiple studies have been done considering the social protection dynamics at nano, micro and macro levels, while this study considered the mega dataset across the globe to analyse the social protection dynamics in consideration of structural and institutional performances.
Unpacking the association between social media use and support for unlawful behaviors in protests: a study in Hong Kong
Authors: Xia Chuanli , Shen Fei
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Existing research has shown the role of social media in facilitating general protest participation. However, there is a noticeable gap in understanding the dynamics related to explicitly unlawful behaviors during protests, which have become increasingly prominent in recent times. Drawing upon the communication mediation model (O-S-O-R model), this study proposes a moderated mediation model to delineate specific mechanisms under which social media use influences individuals' support for unlawful behaviors in protests.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey of 1,121 Hong Kong residents was conducted in the context of the 2019 Hong Kong Anti-Extradition Law Amendment Bill Movement to test the theoretical model.

Findings

Obtaining political information on social media has a dual effect on support for unlawful behaviors in protests. On one hand, social media use increases individuals' political knowledge, which is reinforced by frequent political discussions on social media. This enhanced political knowledge tends to reduce the likelihood of supporting unlawful behaviors in protests. On the other hand, acquiring political information on social media can also generate increased anger toward politics, potentially leading to a more supportive attitude toward unlawful behaviors in protests.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the expanding field of research on digital activism by revealing the intricate mechanisms by which social media usage shapes support for unlawful behaviors in protests. It also expands our understanding of explicit unlawful behaviors within protests as a distinct form of political behavior.
Interorganizational systems without hierarchy: immunization information systems
Authors: Yang Alan , Edberg Dana
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The 2020–2021 COVID-19 pandemic spurred change across multiple healthcare industries. This study explores how managing vaccination data in the United States of America required cooperation among many different organizations necessitated by an emergency response. We studied how individual states interacted with the federal government to address the need for vaccination-related information during the pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 11 interviews were conducted with individuals responsible for collecting vaccination data and reporting it to the US Federal Government. Seven of those individuals were directors of USA jurisdictional Immunization Information Systems (IIS). Archival data were also combined with the interview responses to inform the analysis and development of guidelines.

Findings

States across the USA had different ways of tracking and storing immunization data that was heavily influenced by state-level and federal legislation. The lack of a universal patient identifier made cross-state patient identification difficult. Federal requirements for reporting dictated much of how the different state-level entities collected, stored and reported data.

Practical implications

This study highlights the importance of data interoperability and data sharing by exploring how a loosely coupled set of entities without direct top-down control or a profit motive can govern data effectively. Our analysis provides greater clarity about the interactions between different stakeholders in a complex system.

Originality/value

This study presents primary interviews of 11 individuals, each responsible for tracking and reporting immunization information. Analysis of the data expands existing research on IIS on data sharing, system interoperability and dynamic pandemic responses.
A novel ranking method in data envelopment analysis: a real case on Chinese banking industry
Authors: Nematizadeh Maryeh , Amirteimoori Alireza , Kordrostami Sohrab , Khoshandam Leila
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to address the lack of discrimination between fully efficient decision-making units in nonparametric efficiency analysis models by introducing a new ranking technique that incorporates contextual variables.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed method combines Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) and Ordinary Least Squares (OLS). First, DEA evaluates the partial efficiency of each unit, considering all inputs and only one output. Next, OLS removes the influence of contextual variables on the partial efficiencies. Finally, a ranking criterion based on modified partial efficiencies is formulated. The method is applied to data from 100 Chinese banks, including state-owned, commercial and industrial institutions, for the year 2020.

Findings

The ranking results show that the top six positions are assigned to highly esteemed banks in China, demonstrating strong alignment with real-world performance. The method provides a comprehensive ranking of all units, including nonextreme efficient ones, without excluding any. It resolves infeasibility issues that arise during the ranking of efficient units and ensures uniqueness in efficiency scores, leading to a more reliable and robust ranking process. Contextual variables exerted a greater influence on the first partial efficiency compared to the second. Notably, Total Capital Adequacy (TCA) significantly impact bank efficiency.

Originality/value

This study introduces a novel ranking method that effectively integrates contextual variables into DEA-based efficiency analysis, addressing limitations of existing methods. The practical application to Chinese banks demonstrates its utility and relevance.
Understanding use continuance of social networking sites in organizations from employees’ perspectives: multicontextual contrasts between Canada and Cote d’Ivoire
Authors: Kaba Bangaly
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Limited research has espoused a comparative perspective to study social networking sites’ (SNS) use continuance despite most of them being abandoned after initial adoption. Most existing empirical works have been undertaken in western contexts, and they do not consider country-origin influence. Thus, they are of little benefit to global and transnational organizations. Awareness of countries’ similarities and contrasts provides the basis for understanding people’s behaviors in cross-cultural contexts, which can be crucial to ensuring technology acceptance and success, especially in multinational organizations. Our research aims to explain why and how people use SNSs sustainably in the workplace through a model and comparative study.

Design/methodology/approach

The theoretical framework was developed to integrate and extend two major behavioral adoption and technology use models in explaining SNS use continuance. This paper collected data through a survey and analyzed it using structural equation modeling through partial least squares (PLS).

Findings

One major contribution of this study is to highlight that the users in selected countries are driven strongly by subconscious factors rather than traditional factors based on the system attributes and users’ perceived rationality of continuing to use SNSs.

Research limitations/implications

This paper recommends that the model in this study be tested in other technology environments to evaluate the external validity of the research study. The research was based on an unspecified platform, but each SNS may have its own singularities that should merit further consideration.

Originality/value

This paper will contribute to the literature by integrating and extending two major theoretical frameworks and espousing a cross-national perspective.
Resources collection strategy of emergency materials based on evolutionary game model in complex network
Authors: Guohua Qu , Rudan Xue
Published: November 2024

Purpose

In recent years, the frequency of emergencies, such as natural disasters and public health crises, has markedly increased globally. These occurrences have introduced new challenges to national public security systems and emergency management capabilities. Post-disaster humanitarian logistic operations involve the collection of emergency relief resources to mitigate the impact of disasters in affected areas. Effective coordination among governments, enterprises and charities is essential to enhance the efficiency of these operations. This study employs evolutionary game theory to explore the strategic interactions and behavioral patterns among these key stakeholders during the collection of emergency materials.

Design/methodology/approach

A tripartite evolutionary game model involving governments, enterprises and charities is developed. Subsequently, to validate the theoretical findings, a scale-free network is constructed for the purpose of numerical simulations. As this network evolves, both the edges between nodes and the strategy choices of the nodes also change. Numerical simulations are conducted using the network to examine the sensitivity of factors influencing strategic choices among game stakeholders.

Findings

According to the model simulation results, penalties significantly influence government regulation strength, while enterprise philanthropic behavior is mainly affected by penalties, profit transfer benefits and trust loss. For charities, strategic choices are primarily driven by penalties, tax subsidies, illegal operation benefits and charitable costs. The findings provide a theoretical basis for governments, enterprises and charities to select the sensible strategy.

Originality/value

Our study establishes a dynamic network of edges and nodes evolving over time to analyze the strategic evolutionary paths of governments, enterprises and charities from a micro perspective. The results assist governments, enterprises and charities in making more strategic decisions.
Role of mucous cells in the defence system of the cnidarian Actinia equina (Linnaeus, 1758): The keystone of evolution
Authors: Alesci Alessio , Marino Sebastian , Miller Anthea , Giliberti Angelo , Rigano Gabriele , Giuffrè Letterio , Fernandes Jorge M. O. , Savoca Serena , Capillo Gioele
Published: November 2024

Cnidarians are the first phylum of metazoans to exhibit a functional mucus layer. In evolution, mucous cells perform the classical secretory function of mucus and act as sentinels for external insults, particularly in mammals. However, this topic has not been much analysed in the lower metazoans. This study aims to investigate the role of mucous cells in Actinia equina (Anthozoa, Hexacorallia) (Linnaeus, 1758) by using confocal microscopy and bioinformatics. The results show colocalization of Toll‐like receptor 2 (TLR2) and Mucin2 (MUC2) on these cells, suggesting a crosstalk between defence response and mucus secretion in cnidarians. Furthermore, the presence of TLR2 on the surface of mucous cells suggests their involvement in host defence responses, as occurs in vertebrates. Moreover, through in silico analysis, we confirmed the presence of orthologous genes for the tested antibodies, providing additional evidence to support our results from an evolutionary perspective. These data suggest that mucous cells play a defensive role throughout evolution, helping us understand how these cells have developed and adapted across phylogenesis. This information also provides new insights into the defensive strategies of invertebrates and clarifies their evolutionary history.
A Phase 2 Study of PEGylated Recombinant Human Growth Hormone for 52 Weeks in Short Children Born Small for Gestational Age in China
Authors: Luo Xiaoping , Hou Ling , Zhong Yan , Zhao Sha , Chen Xiaobo , Dong Qian , Du Hongwei , Lu Honghua , Yang Yu , Wu Xian , Luo Feihong , Chen Ruoqian , Xu Zhuangjian , Ma Yaping , Song Wenhui , Feng Mei , Gu Xuefan , Qiu Wenjuan
Published: November 2024

Objective

Children born small for gestational age (SGA) are at increased risk of health issues. This study evaluated the efficacy, safety and optimal dose of PEGylated‐recombinant human growth hormone (PEG‐rhGH) in these children.

Design

In this multicentre, randomised, open‐label, Phase 2 trial conducted at nine clinical sites in China, patients were randomised 1:1 to receive subcutaneous injections of PEG‐rhGH at 0.1 mg/kg/week (low dose) or 0.2 mg/kg/week (high dose) for 52 weeks.

Patients

Ninety‐six children were born SGA.

Measurements

The primary endpoint was the change in height standard deviation score (HT‐SDS) at Week 52.

Results

At Week 52, the change in HT‐SDS in the high‐ and low‐dose groups was 0.923 ± 0.352 (p < 0.0001) and 0.511 ± 0.336 (p < 0.0001), respectively (least‐squares means difference, 0.410; 95% confidence interval 0.270–0.551; p < 0.0001). Height velocity (9.94 ± 1.55 vs. 8.37 ± 1.50 cm/year) was also significantly higher in the high‐dose than in the low‐dose group (p < 0.0001). Change in insulin‐like growth factor (IGF)‐1 SDS was 1.867 ± 1.747 and 1.168 ± 1.193 in the high‐ and low‐dose groups, respectively (p = 0.0189). IGF‐1/IGF binding protein‐3 and bone maturity were improved in both groups at Week 52. Most treatment‐emergent adverse events were mild to moderate; the safety profile was similar in both groups.

Conclusions

PEG‐rhGH at either dose for 52 weeks was effective and well tolerated in children born SGA. Patients in the high‐dose group achieved greater improvement in HT‐SDS than in the low‐dose group.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials. gov identifier: NCT02375620
CustomSketching: Sketch Concept Extraction for Sketch‐based Image Synthesis and Editing
Authors: Xiao Chufeng , Fu Hongbo
Published: November 2024

Personalization techniques for large text‐to‐image (T2I) models allow users to incorporate new concepts from reference images. However, existing methods primarily rely on textual descriptions, leading to limited control over customized images and failing to support fine‐grained and local editing (e.g., shape, pose, and details). In this paper, we identify sketches as an intuitive and versatile representation that can facilitate such control, e.g., contour lines capturing shape information and flow lines representing texture. This motivates us to explore a novel task of sketch concept extraction: given one or more sketch‐image pairs, we aim to extract a special sketch concept that bridges the correspondence between the images and sketches, thus enabling sketch‐based image synthesis and editing at a fine‐grained level. To accomplish this, we introduce CustomSketching, a two‐stage framework for extracting novel sketch concepts via few‐shot learning. Considering that an object can often be depicted by a contour for general shapes and additional strokes for internal details, we introduce a dual‐sketch representation to reduce the inherent ambiguity in sketch depiction. We employ a shape loss and a regularization loss to balance fidelity and editability during optimization. Through extensive experiments, a user study, and several applications, we show our method is effective and superior to the adapted baselines.
Digital Garment Alteration
Authors: Eggler A. M. , Falque R. , Liu M. , Vidal‐Calleja T. , Sorkine‐Hornung O. , Pietroni N.
Published: November 2024

Garment alteration is a practical technique to adapt an existing garment to fit a target body shape. Typically executed by skilled tailors, this process involves a series of strategic fabric operations—removing or adding material—to achieve the desired fit on a target body. We propose an innovative approach to automate this process by computing a set of practically feasible modifications that adapt an existing garment to fit a different body shape. We first assess the garment's fit on a reference body; then, we replicate this fit on the target by deriving a set of pattern modifications via a linear program. We compute these alterations by employing an iterative process that alternates between global geometric optimization and physical simulation. Our method utilizes geometry‐based simulation of woven fabric's anisotropic behavior, accounts for tailoring details like seam matching, and incorporates elements such as darts or gussets. We validate our technique by producing digital and physical garments, demonstrating practical and achievable alterations.
VRTree: Example‐Based 3D Interactive Tree Modeling in Virtual Reality
Authors: Wu Di , Yang Mingxin , Liu Zhihao , Tu Fangyuan , Liu Fang , Cheng Zhanglin
Published: November 2024

We present VRTree, an example‐based interactive virtual reality (VR) system designed to efficiently create diverse 3D tree models while faithfully preserving botanical characteristics of real‐world references. Our method employs a novel representation called Hierarchical Branch Lobe (HBL), which captures the hierarchical features of trees and serves as a versatile intermediary for intuitive VR interaction. The HBL representation decomposes a 3D tree into a series of concise examples, each consisting of a small set of main branches, secondary branches, and lobe‐bounded twigs. The core of our system involves two key components: (1) We design an automatic algorithm to extract an initial library of HBL examples from real tree point clouds. These HBL examples can be optionally refined according to user intentions through an interactive editing process. (2) Users can interact with the extracted HBL examples to assemble new tree structures, ensuring the local features align with the target tree species. A shape‐guided procedural growth algorithm then transforms these assembled HBL structures into highly realistic, finegrained 3D tree models. Extensive experiments and user studies demonstrate that VRTree outperforms current state‐of‐the‐art approaches, offering a highly effective and easy‐to‐use VR tool for tree modeling.
𝒢‐Style: Stylized Gaussian Splatting
Authors: Kovács Áron Samuel , Hermosilla Pedro , Raidou Renata G.
Published: November 2024

We introduce 𝒢‐Style, a novel algorithm designed to transfer the style of an image onto a 3D scene represented using Gaussian Splatting. Gaussian Splatting is a powerful 3D representation for novel view synthesis, as—compared to other approaches based on Neural Radiance Fields—it provides fast scene renderings and user control over the scene. Recent pre‐prints have demonstrated that the style of Gaussian Splatting scenes can be modified using an image exemplar. However, since the scene geometry remains fixed during the stylization process, current solutions fall short of producing satisfactory results. Our algorithm aims to address these limitations by following a three‐step process: In a pre‐processing step, we remove undesirable Gaussians with large projection areas or highly elongated shapes. Subsequently, we combine several losses carefully designed to preserve different scales of the style in the image, while maintaining as much as possible the integrity of the original scene content. During the stylization process and following the original design of Gaussian Splatting, we split Gaussians where additional detail is necessary within our scene by tracking the gradient of the stylized color. Our experiments demonstrate that 𝒢‐Style generates high‐quality stylizations within just a few minutes, outperforming existing methods both qualitatively and quantitatively.
Using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) to understand glucose control in women with obesity during pregnancy
Authors: Price Sarah A. , Lewin Alice , Nankervis Alison , Barmanray Rahul
Published: November 2024

In women with obesity but without diabetes, the factors driving poor pregnancy outcomes are inadequately understood. This study explores glucose as a potential mediator of adverse pregnancy outcomes in women with obesity. A two‐arm observational study was conducted in a single maternity hospital in Melbourne, Australia. Thirty‐eight women without diabetes, 20 of normal weight (BMI 20–24.9 kg/m2) and 18 with obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m2), wore a continuous glucose monitor and had anthropometry and blood samples collected in early, mid and late pregnancy. Subjects who developed gestational diabetes were excluded prior to analysis. Groups were compared with respect to patient‐day mean glucose, mean blood glucose, daytime and nighttime glucose AUC, post‐prandial glucose AUC, HOMA‐IR and QUICKI. Five subjects developed gestational diabetes and were excluded from the analysis. Compared to controls (n = 19), women with obesity (n = 14) had significantly higher PDMG (p < .001), daytime and nighttime glucose AUC (p < .01) and post‐breakfast glucose AUC (p < .001 and p = .043) and post‐dinner glucose AUC (p < .001) in early and mid‐pregnancy. Mean plasma glucose and post‐lunch glucose AUC were only higher in women with obesity in early pregnancy (p = .009 and p < .001, respectively). In mid and late pregnancy, HOMA‐IR was significantly higher (p < .05) and QUICKI (p < .01) significantly lower in the women with obesity compared to controls. Most parameters that used to assess glycaemic control in pregnancy demonstrated significantly higher plasma glucose in women with obesity compared to controls. This supports the hypothesis that glucose is a mediator of adverse pregnancy outcomes in women with obesity.
Successful diagnosis of small gastrointestinal stromal tumor using modified mucosal incision‐assisted biopsy with a cold snare
Authors: Ando Yoshitaka , Sakurai Toshiyuki , Saruta Masayuki
Published: November 2024

Watch a video of this article.
Perinatal care in the earthquake disaster of the century: Nurses’ and midwives’ experiences
Authors: Özkan Asibe , Acar Zehra , Çömezoğlu Esra
Published: November 2024

Aim

To determine the experiences of nurses and midwives providing perinatal care in an earthquake area.

Background

On February 6, 2023, two earthquakes measuring 7.8 and 7.6 magnitudes struck Turkey, affecting a large area. It is crucial for perinatal care to be rapidly organized, provided under the most suitable conditions, and delivered by qualified health professionals. Understanding the post‐disaster experiences of nurses and midwives is crucial to addressing this issue.

Method

This is a qualitative study using phenomenological methodology with 8 nurses and 12 midwives in the earthquake‐affected area. Personal information and semistructured interview forms were used for data collection. Content analysis was used for data analysis.

Results

Participants had a mean age of 33.75 years. The experiences of nurses and midwives were grouped into five themes: emotions experienced, challenges encountered, problems in perinatal services, coping mechanisms, and recommendations. The emotions experienced theme encompasses both positive and negative emotions. The challenges encountered theme includes challenging environmental conditions, organizational issues, problems with medical supplies and drugs, and being a victim of the earthquake. The problems in perinatal services theme includes pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum services. The coping mechanism's theme encompasses problem‐focused and emotion‐focused coping strategies. The recommendations theme includes education and awareness, preparedness for disasters, and sustainable services.

Implications for nursing/midwifery and health policy

Nurses and midwives working in the earthquake‐affected area experienced numerous physical and psychological challenges and encountered difficulties in delivering health services. A disaster education course including simulated disaster drills and practice can be integrated into the education system. Strengthening healthcare facilities against disasters and raising awareness among the community are crucial.
Hypothyroidism in a Psychiatric Outpatient Population of People With Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Chester Verity , Cherukat Medha , Smith Nicholas , Patteril Elizabeth , Sawhney Indermeet , Zia Asif , Alexander Regi
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Hypothyroidism is a chronic health condition which causes physical, cognitive and psychiatric symptoms. The prevalence of hypothyroidism in adults with intellectual disabilities is under researched.

Method

Hypothyroidism was examined among 463 patients within an outpatient intellectual disability psychiatric team. Clinic records were utilised for this study, including sociodemographic, psychiatric and physical health diagnoses.

Results

Among the 463 patients, 43 (9%) had hypothyroidism. Compared to those without hypothyroidism, the hypothyroid group were significantly older, more likely to be female, and had increased rates of high cholesterol, diabetes, Down's Syndrome and dementia.

Discussion

Rates of hypothyroidism within this cohort of patients with intellectual disabilities were high (9%). The results suggest hypothyroidism in intellectual disability should be the focus of prospective research, in larger, more representative samples. This study indicates a need for increased awareness of, and resources for hypothyroidism in health services.
Comparison of the ability between dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry and bioelectrical impedance analysis for diagnosing low skeletal muscle mass and sarcopenia in patients with chronic liver disease
Authors: Tamura Yuki , Saeki Chisato , Kanai Tomoya , Kiryu Sachie , Nakano Masanori , Oikawa Tsunekazu , Torisu Yuichi , Saruta Masayuki , Tsubota Akihito
Published: November 2024

Background and Aim

Sarcopenia and osteoporosis adversely impact the clinical outcomes of patients with chronic liver disease (CLD). The Japan Society of Hepatology (JSH) sarcopenia criteria utilize bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) for assessing muscle mass rather than dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA), which can simultaneously diagnose these comorbidities. We investigated the correlations and interchangeability between the appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMI) values determined using BIA and DXA and evaluated the diagnostic ability of DXA for sarcopenia and osteosarcopenia in patients with CLD.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 173 patients with CLD. Sarcopenia was defined as low ASMIBIA according to the JSH and Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia (AWGS) criteria (ASMIBIA cutoff) or low ASMIDXA according to the AWGS criteria (ASMIDXA cutoff) and low handgrip strength. For women, a provisional cutoff value was set for ASMIDXA using the ASMIBIA cutoff (ASMIDXA‐altered cutoff).

Results

We found that ASMIBIA and ASMIDXA were significantly correlated (r = 0.921; P < 0.001). The Bland–Altman plots demonstrated substantial agreement between ASMIBIA and ASMIDXA, with a mean difference of 0.0116 kg/m2. The prevalence rates of sarcopenia and osteosarcopenia diagnosed using the ASMIBIA cutoff were 26.0% and 17.3%, respectively. The kappa coefficients for the prevalence of sarcopenia and osteosarcopenia were 0.759 and 0.775 between ASMIBIA cutoff and ASMIDXA cutoff and 0.780 and 0.806 between ASMIBIA cutoff and ASMIDXA‐altered cutoff, respectively.

Conclusions

The utilization of DXA can facilitate the comprehensive assessment and management of musculoskeletal comorbidities in patients with CLD.