bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laparoscopic-assisted full-sized liver transplantation with magnetically fast portal vein anastomosis: an initial cohort study
Authors: Liu Xue-Min , Li Yu , Feng Zhe , Zhang Xiao-Gang , Wang Shan-Pei , Xiang Jun-Xi , Liu Si-Nan , Guo Kun , Hou Jing-Jing , Shi Ai-Hua , Zhang Xu-Feng , Lyu Yi
Published: May 2024

Background:

Some cases of laparoscopic-assisted liver transplantation (LA-LT) with utilization of reduced-size grafts has been reported. The authors here introduced successful utilization of LA-LT with whole liver grafts and magnetic portal vein anastomosis.

Methods:

Eight patients with liver cirrhosis were included for LA-LT using donor organs after cardiac death. The surgical procedures included purely laparoscopic explant hepatectomy and whole-liver graft implantation via the midline incision. After explant removal, the whole-liver graft was then placed in situ, and a side-to-side cavo-caval anastomosis with 4–5 cm oval opening was performed. The magnetic rings were everted on the donor and recipient portal vein, respectively, and the instant attachment of the two magnets at the donor and recipient portal vein allowed fast blood reperfusion, followed by continuous suturing on the surface of the magnets.

Results:

The median operation time was 495 (range 420–630). The median time of explant hepatectomy and inferior vena cava anastomosis was 239 (range 150–300) min and 14.5 (range 10–19) min, respectively. Of note, the median anhepatic time was 25 (range 20–35) min. All the patients were discharged home with no major complications after more than 12 months follow-up.

Conclusion:

LA-LT with full-size graft is feasible and utilization of magnetic anastomosis would further simplify the procedure.
Socioeconomic Influence on Physical Therapist Student Financial Literacy, Self-Efficacy, Stress, and Anxiety
Authors: Mulligan Edward P. , Pabian Patrick S. , Dickson Tara
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students have considerable educational debt upon graduation with suspected low levels of financial literacy, limited financial self-efficacy, and elevated stress and anxiety. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationships between financial knowledge, financial anxiety, financial stress, and financial self-efficacy with socioeconomic determinants in DPT students.

Subjects:

Five hundred seventy-eight DPT students, surveyed through a cross-sectional sample of convenience.

Methods:

Participants responded to a 40-item demographic questionnaire providing a self-assessment of their current financial literacy, financial self-efficacy, financial anxiety, financial stress, and level of general social support. Pairwise correlations were used to determine the relationship between independent variables and composite scores on self-assessment tools. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to predict financial knowledge, self-efficacy, anxiety, stress, and social support by socioeconomic indicators and educational debt status.

Results:

While there was a moderate, positive association between presence of debt and financial self-efficacy and financial anxiety for all students (r = .55), there was no statistically significant difference in financial knowledge, self-efficacy, anxiety, stress, or social support for students based on race/ethnicity. There was a negligible to weak correlation between financial knowledge, financial self-efficacy, and level of financial anxiety based on age, race/ethnicity, gender, socioeconomic background, debt load, risk tolerance, and retirement reflection. When subjected to multiple regression analysis, the level of education-related debt could explain a large proportion of the variance in multiple measures, including financial self-efficacy, anxiety, and stress. Economic background explained a large proportion of variance in the general social support students felt.

Discussion and Conclusion:

We found a strong, positive correlation between the presence of debt and financial stress and anxiety for all DPT student respondents. While there is no difference in financial literacy and self-efficacy based on race and ethnic background, there is a moderate correlation between self-efficacy and financial anxiety for all students. Education on strategies to manage debt load may reduce both factors.
Performance of race-neutral eGFR equations in patients with decompensated cirrhosis
Authors: Fallahzadeh Mohammad Amin , Allegretti Andrew S. , Nadim Mitra K. , Mahmud Nadim , Patidar Kavish R. , Cullaro Giuseppe , Saracino Giovanna , Asrani Sumeet K.
Published: May 2024

The 2021 Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration equation [CKD-EPI 2021] is a race-neutral equation recently developed and rapidly implemented as a reference standard to estimate glomerular filtration rate(GFR). However, its role in cirrhosis has not been examined especially in low GFR. We analyzed the performance of CKD-EPI 2021 compared to other equations with protocol-measured GFR (mGFR) in cirrhosis. We analyzed 2090 unique adult patients with cirrhosis undergoing protocol GFR measurements using iothalamate clearance from 1985 to 2015 when listed for liver transplantation at Baylor University in Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas. Using mGFR as a reference standard, the CKD-EPI 2021 was compared to CKD-EPI 2012, Modification of Diet in Renal Disease-4, Modification of Diet in Renal Disease-6, Royal Free Hospital, and GFR Assessment in Liver disease overall and in certain subgroups (ascites, mGFR ≤ 30 mL/min/1.73 m2, diagnosis, Model for End-Stage Liver Disease and gender). We examined bias (difference between eGFR and mGFR), accuracy (p30: eGFR within ± 30% of mGFR) and agreement between eGFR and mGFR categories. CKD-EPI 2021 had the second lowest bias across the entire range of GFR after GFR Assessment in Liver disease (6.6 vs. 4.6 mL/min/1.73 m2, respectively, p < 0.001). The accuracy of CKD-EPI 2021 was similar to CKD-EPI 2012 (p30 = 67.8% vs. 67.9%, respectively) which was higher than the other equations (p < 0.001). It had a similar performance in patients with ascites, by diagnoses, Model for End-Stage Liver Disease subgroups, by gender, and in non-Black patients. However, it had a relatively higher overestimation in mGFR ≤ 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 than most equations (18.5 mL/min/1.73m2, p < 0.001). Specifically, 64% of patients with mGFR ≤ 30 mL/min/1.73m2 were incorrectly classified as a less severe CKD stage by CKD-EPI 2021. In Blacks, CKD-EPI 2021 underestimated eGFR by 17.9 mL/min/1.73 m2, which was higher than the alternate equations except for Royal Free Hospital (p < 0.001). The novel race-neutral eGFR equation, CKD-EPI 2021, improves the GFR estimation overall but may not accurately capture true kidney function in cirrhosis, specifically at low GFR. There is an urgent need for a race-neutral equation in liver disease reflecting the complexity of kidney function physiology unique to cirrhosis, given implications for organ allocation and dual organ transplant.
A randomized trial of ‘fresh start’ text messaging to improve return to care in people with HIV who missed appointments in South Africa
Authors: Njuguna Christine , Long Lawrence , Mistri Preethi , Chetty-Makkan Candice , Maughan-Brown Brendan , Buttenheim Alison , Schmucker Laura , Pascoe Sophie , Thirumurthy Harsha , O’Connor Cara , Mutyambizi Chipo , Mutasa Barry , Rees Kate
Published: May 2024

Objective:

Treatment interruptions are a barrier to successful antiretroviral therapy (ART). ‘Fresh start messages’, which leverage significant days on the calendar (e.g., new year, public holiday) in order to prompt action, have the potential to encourage people with HIV (PWH) to return to care. We evaluated a ‘fresh start’ intervention (text messages) to increase return to care in PWH who had missed their last appointment.

Design:

A three arm 1 : 1:1 individual randomised controlled trial.

Methods:

We randomized adults in Capricorn District who had missed ART appointments by >28 days to: no text message; unframed messages (fresh start not mentioned); or framed messages (fresh start mentioned). Randomization was stratified by treatment interruption duration and across two holidays (Youth Day, Mandela Day). The primary outcome was an ART-related clinic visit at ≤45 days of the first message.

Results:

9143 participants were randomised. For Youth Day, 1474 and 1468 were sent unframed and framed messages respectively, with 13.4% sent these messages having an ART visit vs. 11.9% not sent a message [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.2; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.0–1.4, P-value = 0.075]. For Mandela Day, 1336 and 1334 were sent unframed and framed messages respectively, with 6.7% sent these messages having an ART-related clinic visit vs. 5.4% not sent a message (aOR 1.2; 95% CI: 1.0–1.6; P-value = 0.100).

Conclusions:

Low-cost text messages sent around a ‘fresh start’ date may increase the likelihood that patients who miss appointments return to care. This study suggests the potential of text messaging for motivating return to care.
Is Polyetheretherketone an Effective Alloplastic Material in Comparison to Titanium in Calvarial Reconstruction
Authors: McGinnity-Hamze Gráinne , Hatamleh Muhanad M.
Published: May 2024

Introduction and Aim:

Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and titanium (Ti) cranioplasty implants ideal outcomes are good esthetics, long-term stability, and protection of the fragile brain tissue. However, it is unclear whether PEEK implants can offer an equal alternative to Ti implants. This work aimed to critically review papers and case series published on both Ti and PEEK Cranioplasty regarding complications, clinical outcomes, ease of use, esthetics, manufacture and availability, cost and time-saving factors, postoperative quality of life (QOL), as well as their suitability for the fronto-orbito region reconstruction.

Methods:

PubMed database was sourced for published literature in the period 2007 to the end of 2023; a further manual search for articles was carried out on the reference lists of each paper.

Results:

A total of 48980 papers were found during the initial search, but only 33 articles met the inclusion criteria. A total of 6023 cranial implants, with 3879 being Ti and 1205 PEEK. Titanium was the material of choice in over 64.4% of cases; however, Ti has been in application for many years compared to PEEK. Out of the 33 papers, there was 27 retrospective cohort/analysis/case series and reviews: 1 meta-analysis, 2 systematic reviews and 3 randomized control trials. Four articles commented on the QOL, 15 on esthetics, 7 discussed cost and time-saving without measurable variables, and 7 articles looked explicitly at the complex fronto-orbito region, of which 49% were primary 1-stage surgical reconstructions, 54% were reconstructed with PEEK and 7% Ti (CAD/CAM).

Conclusion:

There is no absolute consensus for the preference of either material, however, in the fronto-orbito region, PEEK is the material of choice for ease of use, esthetics, and time-saving. However, there are no long-term studies on PEEK cranioplasty, and fewer in comparison with Ti implants. Further research is required in this field. No reliable or measurable data was found to determine the QOL, esthetics, cost, or time-saving elements.
Red line the red line: Optimizing emergency medicine physicians and surgeons collaborative roles on trauma teams
Authors: Givens Melissa , Holcomb John B.
Published: May 2024

It has long been the standard for surgical and EM teams to both be present upon patient arrival and work together for the sickest trauma patients, yielding improved outcomes. It is important to dismantle divisive perceptions, confront system constraints, and promote new strategies that optimize the engagement of trauma team members. The focus should be on the patient, whose injury care starts with prevention and extends seamlessly through prehospital, hospital and rehabilitation.

The authors address several myths that impact collaborative teamwork among emergency medicine physician and surgeons.

Leaders, especially at GME sites, need to foster collaborative relationships, rather than adversarial. The red line mentality is a divisive construct that should be dismantled.
Clinical Implications and Risk Factors of Dilatation of Remnant Pancreatic Duct at 1 Year after Pancreatoduodenectomy: A Prospective, Japanese, Multicenter, Observational Cohort Study (DAIMONJI Study)
Authors: Narita Masato , Hatano Etsuro , Kitamura Koji , Terajima Hiroaki , Kitagawa Hirohisa , Mitsuoka Eisei , Machimoto Takafumi , Morita Satoshi , Nishitai Ryuta , Masui Toshihiko ,   for the Kyoto University Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery (KUHBPS) Group
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

To determine the precise frequency of main pancreatic duct (MPD) dilatation within the remnant pancreas at 1 year after pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) and its clinical implications, a prospective multicenter cohort study was performed in patients without MPD dilatation before PD (registry number: UMIN000029662).

STUDY DESIGN:

Between October 2017 and July 2020, patients with an MPD diameter less than 3 mm who were planned to undergo PD for periampullary lesions at 21 hospitals were enrolled. The primary endpoints were frequency of MPD dilatation at 1 year after PD, and the relationship between MPD dilatation and pancreatic endo- and exocrine function, nutritional status, and fatty liver. Secondary endpoints were risk factors for MPD dilatation at 1 year after PD and time-course change in MPD diameter.

RESULTS:

Of 200 registered patients, 161 patients were finally analyzed. Pancreatic fistula was the most frequent complication (76; 47.2%). MPD dilatation (MPD > 3 mm) at 1 year after PD was seen in 35 patients (21.7%). Pancreatic exocrine function, assessed by steatorrhea, was significantly impaired in patients with MPD dilatation. However, endocrine function, nutrition status, and fatty liver development were comparable between the 2 groups. In multivariate analysis, the serum total protein level 7.3 g/dL or more was an independent predictor for MPD dilatation at 1 year after PD (odds ratio 3.12, 95% CI 1.31 to 7.15). A mean MPD diameter significantly increased at 6 months after PD and kept plateau thereafter.

CONCLUSIONS:

MPD dilatation at 1 year after PD was seen in 21.7% of patients and significantly associated with exocrine function impairment but not with endocrine function, nutrition status, or development of fatty liver.
Impact of health systems interventions in primary health settings on type 2 diabetes care and health outcomes among adults in West Africa: a systematic review
Authors: Bondzie Eugene Paa Kofi , Amarteyfio Kezia , Jahan Yasmin , Afun Nana Efua Enyimayew , Agyekum Mary Pomaa , Tapsoba Ludovic , Balabanova Dina , Mirzoev Tolib , Ayepong Irene
Published: May 2024

Type 2 diabetes is ambulatory care sensitive and adequate outpatient primary care supported by strong functional health systems can reduce avoidable complications and related mortality. A large body of published evidence exists on pharmacological agents and non-pharmacological interventions for the management of type 2 diabetes. However, the evidence on health systems’ ability to support patients’ primary care needs, especially in West Africa, where non-communicable disease (NCD) is an increasingly important part of the disease burden is uncertain. This systematic review explores the current published evidence on health systems interventions to support primary health facilities for type 2 diabetes care and impact on health outcomes, service access and quality in West Africa. The World Health Organization health systems building blocks and other post building blocks health systems frameworks guided our search and analysis. Only three pilot studies, including two randomized controlled trials and one pre-post study, met all our first inclusion criteria. However, we included 12 other studies which did not meet all the inclusion criteria but reported on a health system intervention for complete analysis: (The criteria were expanded to include studies conducted outside primary care settings. The rationale was that findings from such studies may influence primary care. Also, non-randomized control trials were later included). Our results showed that interventions with significant impact on glycemic control, treatment adherence, health literacy, and other associated outcomes addressed intersections between the individual health system blocks/areas. Thus, four cross-cutting themes related to the building blocks were found during analysis. The first theme was on interventions targeting the availability of trained health workers and the quality of their services; the second was on interventions targeting institutional infrastructure and resources for management; the third was on interventions targeting leadership and organizational culture and; the fourth was interventions targeting relationships among stakeholders. A fifth theme highlighting patients and family empowerment for type 2 diabetes control was also found in most of the interventions.

Conclusion

These findings confirm that the rising burden of non-communicable diseases in West Africa, particularly type 2 diabetes, can be tackled by strong functional primary healthcare systems.
Cost-Effectiveness of Platelet Function Testing in Dual Antiplatelet Therapy Decision-Making after Intracranial Aneurysm Treatment with Flow Diversion
Authors: Wadhwa Aryan , Ramirez-Velandia Felipe , Mensah Emmanuel , Salih Mira , Enriquez-Marulanda Alejandro , Young Michael , Taussky Philipp , Ogilvy Christopher S.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) use is the standard of practice after flow diversion (FD) for intracranial aneurysms (IAs). Yet, no consensus exists in the literature regarding the optimal regimen. Certain institutions utilize various platelet function testing (PFT) to asses patient responsiveness to DAPT. Clopidogrel is the most commonly prescribed drug during DAPT, yet up to 52% of patients can be non-responders justifying PFT. Additionally, prices vary significantly among antiplatelet drugs, often further complicated by insurance restrictions. We aimed to determine the most cost-effective strategy for deciding DAPT regimens for patients after ICA treatment.

Methods

A decision tree with Monte Carlo simulations was performed to simulate patients undergoing various three-month postoperative DAPT regimens. Patients were either universally administered aspirin alongside Clopidogrel, Ticagrelor, or Prasugrel without PFT, or administered one of the former thienopyridine medications based on platelet reactivity unit (PRU) results after Clopidogrel. Input data for the model were extracted from the current literature, and the willingness-to-pay threshold (WTP) was defined as $100,000 per QALY as per standard practice in the US. The baseline comparison was with universal Clopidogrel DAPT without any PFT. Probabilistic and deterministic sensitivity analyses were performed to evaluate the robustness of the model.

Results

PFT-Prasugrel was the most cost-effective regimen compared to universal Clopidogrel, with a base-case incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of $-35,255 (cost $2336.67, effectiveness 0.85). PFT-Ticagrelor (ICER $-4,671; cost $2,995.06, effectiveness 0.84), universal Prasugrel (ICER $5,553; cost $3,097.30, effectiveness 0.84), and universal Ticagrelor (ICER $75,969; cost $3,801.36, effectiveness 0.84) were all more cost-effective than treating patients with universal Clopidogrel (cost $3,041.77, effectiveness 0.83). These conclusions remain robust in probabilistic and deterministic sensitivity analyses.

Conclusion

The most cost-effective strategy for DAPT after FD for intracranial aneurysms is administering PFT-Prasugrel alongside aspirin. The cost of PFT is strongly justified and recommended when deciding patient-specific DAPT regimens.
Robust inducible gene expression in intracellularListeria monocytogenes in vivo
Authors: Pham Huong Giang , Tran Kiet N. , Gomelsky Larissa , Roy Tathagato , Gigley Jason P. , Gomelsky Mark
Published: May 2024

Attenuated strains of the intracellular pathogenListeria monocytogenescan deliver genetically encoded payloads inside tumor cells.L. monocytogenespreferentially accumulates and propagates inside immune-suppressed tumor microenvironments. To maximize the payload impact in tumors and minimize damage to healthy tissues, it is desirable to induce payload synthesis when bacteria are eliminated from the healthy tissues but are grown to high numbers intratumorally. Here, we have engineered a tightly controlled gene expression system for intracellularL. monocytogenesinducible with a cumin derivative, cumate. Upon cumate addition, expression of a reporter gene is increased inL. monocytogenesgrowingin vitroby 80-fold, and in intracellularL. monocytogenesin murine tumors by 10-fold. This study demonstrates the feasibility of activating gene expression in intracellular bacteria in live animals using an edible inducer. The system is expected to enhance the efficacy and safety of the attenuatedL. monocytogenesstrains as antitumor payload delivery bacterial drones.
WITHDRAWN: SYNERGISM OF BACTERIOPHAGE AND ANTIBIOTICS IN THE REDUCTION OFPseudomonas aeruginosaBIOFILM
Authors: Timilsina Sudip , Karna Suruchi , Napit Rajindra , Upadhyaya Elisha , Malla Rajani
Published: May 2024

Withdrawal Statement

The authors have withdrawn this manuscript because of some fundamental errors in the article. Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as reference for the project. If you have any questions, please contact the corresponding author.
Data-driven brain atrophy staging in spinocerebellar ataxia type 3
Authors: Baumeister Hannah , Schaprian Tamara , Wegner Philipp , Ferreira Monica , Kuegler David , Franca Marcondes Cavalcante , Rezende Thiago Junqueira Ribeiro de , Martinez Alberto Rolim Muro , Jiang Hong , Grobe-Einsler Marcus , Koyak Berkan , Önder Demet , van de Warrenburg Bart , van Gaalen Judith , Durr Alexandra , Coarelli Giulia , Synofzik Matthis , Schöls Ludger , Giunti Paola , Garcia-Moreno Hector , Öz Gülin , Joers James M. , Timmann Dagmar , Jacobi Heike , de Vries Jeroen , Barker Peter , Ratai Eva-Maria , Reetz Kathrin , Infante Jon , Hübener-Schmid Jeannette , Klockgether Thomas ,   ESM MRI study group, DANCER/DELCODE, Berron David , Faber Jennifer
Published: May 2024

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3) is the most common autosomal dominant ataxia worldwide. First targeted gene therapy trials have started, offering the intriguing scenario of preventive treatment. SCA3 is associated with progressive regional brain atrophy that starts before clinical manifestation. We aimed to identify the spatiotemporal progression pattern of brain atrophy of SCA3 with a focus on early disease stages.

T1-weighted MRI scans of 300 SCA3 mutation carriers and 317 controls were analyzed. Subtype and Stage Inference (SuStaIn) was used to identify the sequence of volume loss across selected brain regions.

We observed one distinct sequence of brain atrophy events in SCA3 without evidence for the existence of alternative cascades. Atrophy started in the most caudal parts of the brainstem. Almost all preataxic SCA3 mutation carriers clustered in the first atrophy stages. Certainty of sequence estimation was highest for early atrophy stages with prominent involvement of the pons and cerebellar white matter.

Brain atrophy in SCA3 follows a clear and distinct sequence ascending from the lower brainstem with an early involvement of white matter. Knowledge of this sequence might support the stratification of SCA3 mutation carriers with an imminent clinical onset for early interventions.
Recurrent SARS-CoV-2 spike mutations confer growth advantages to select JN.1 sublineages
Authors: Wang Qian , Mellis Ian A. , Bowen Anthony , Kowalski-Dobson Theresa , Valdez Riccardo , Katsamba Phinikoula S. , Shapiro Lawrence , Gordon Aubree , Guo Yicheng , Ho David D. , Liu Lihong
Published: May 2024

The recently dominant SARS-CoV-2 Omicron JN.1 has evolved into multiple sublineages, with recurrent spike mutations R346T, F456L, and T572I, some of which exhibit growth advantages, such as KP.2. We investigated these mutations in JN.1, examining their individual and combined effects on immune evasion, ACE2 receptor affinity, and in vitro infectivity. F456L increased resistance to neutralization by human sera, including those after JN.1 breakthrough infections, and by RBD class-1 monoclonal antibodies, significantly altering JN.1 antigenicity. R346T enhanced ACE2-binding affinity, without a discernible effect on serum neutralization. Individually, R346T and T572I modestly enhanced infectivity of each pseudovirus. Importantly, expanding sublineages such as KP.2 containing R346T, F456L, and V1104L, showed similar neutralization resistance as JN.1 with R346T and F456L, suggesting V1104L does not appreciably affect antibody evasion. Our findings illustrate how certain JN.1 mutations confer growth advantages in the population and could inform the design of the next COVID-19 vaccine booster.
The ABCF ATPase New1 resolves translation termination defects associated with specific tRNAArgand tRNALysisoacceptors in the P site
Authors: Turnbull Kathryn , Paternoga Helge , von der Weth Esther , Egorov Artyom A. , Pochopien Agnieszka A. , Zhang Yujie , Nersisyan Lilit , Margus Tõnu , Johansson Marcus J.O. , Pelechano Vicent , Wilson Daniel N. , Hauryliuk Vasili
Published: May 2024

The efficiency of translation termination is determined by the nature of the stop codon as well as its context. In eukaryotes, recognition of the A-site stop codon and release of the polypeptide are mediated by release factors eRF1 and eRF3, respectively. Translation termination is modulated by other factors which either directly interact with release factors or bind to the E-site and modulate the activity of the peptidyl transferase center. Previous studies suggested that theSaccharomyces cerevisiaeABCF ATPase New1 is involved in translation termination and/or ribosome recycling, however, the exact function remained unclear. Here, we have applied 5PSeq, single-particle cryo-EM and readthrough reporter assays to provide insight into the biological function of New1. We show that the lack of New1 results in ribosomal stalling at stop codons preceded by a lysine or arginine codon and that the stalling is not defined by the nature of the C-terminal amino acid but rather by the identity of the tRNA isoacceptor in the P-site. Collectively, our results suggest that translation termination is inefficient when ribosomes have specific tRNA isoacceptors in the P-site and that the recruitment of New1 rescues ribosomes at these problematic termination contexts.
Certified Randomness in Tight Space
Authors: Fyrillas Andreas , Bourdoncle Boris , Maïnos Alexandre , Emeriau Pierre-Emmanuel , Start Kayleigh , Margaria Nico , Morassi Martina , Lemaître Aristide , Sagnes Isabelle , Stepanov Petr , Au Thi Huong , Boissier Sébastien , Somaschi Niccolo , Maring Nicolas , Belabas Nadia , Mansfield Shane
Published: May 2024

Reliable randomness is a core ingredient in algorithms and applications ranging from numerical simulations to statistical sampling and cryptography. The outcomes of measurements on entangled quantum states can violate Bell inequalities, thus guaranteeing their intrinsic randomness. This constitutes the basis for certified randomness generation. However, this certification requires spacelike separated devices, making it unfit for a compact apparatus. Here we provide a general method for certified randomness generation on a small-scale application-ready device and perform an integrated photonic demonstration combining a solid-state emitter and a glass chip. In contrast to most existing certification protocols, which in the absence of spacelike separation are vulnerable to loopholes inherent to realistic devices, the protocol we implement accounts for information leakage and is thus compatible with emerging compact scalable devices. We demonstrate a two-qubit photonic device that achieves the highest standard in randomness, yet is cut out for real-world applications. The full 94.5-h-long stabilized process harnesses a bright and stable single-photon quantum-dot-based source, feeding into a reconfigurable photonic chip, with stability in the milliradian range on the implemented phases and consistent indistinguishability of the entangled photons above 93%. Using the contextuality framework, we certify private randomness generation and achieve a rate compatible with randomness expansion secure against quantum adversaries.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Identifying university librarians’ readiness to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) for innovative learning experiences and smart library services: an empirical investigation
Authors: Shahzad Khurram , Khan Shakeel Ahmad , Iqbal Abid , Javeed Asfa Muhammed Din
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to identify the university librarians’ readiness to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) for innovative learning experiences and smart library services.

Design/methodology/approach

Quantitative research design followed by a survey method was applied. Data were collected from 174 professional librarians of 58 university libraries in Punjab province, Pakistan.

Findings

The findings of the study revealed that the adoption of AI enhances innovative learning. The results displayed that AI adoption assists librarians in the provision of smart library services to end users.

Originality/value

The study has offered practical recommendations in light of the evidence-based data for the efficient adoption and sustainability of AI applications in university libraries for innovative learning and smart library services. It contributes to the theoretical understanding by expanding the existing knowledge base. It offers managerial insights and has a societal impact. The study has provided a framework based on the empirical findings for efficiently adopting AI tools in academic settings for the provision of innovative learning experiences and sustainable smart library services.
Liberalization, financial performance and key strategic choices: some empirical evidence from energy companies
Authors: Iovino Felicetta , Koufopoulos Dimitrios N. , Maielli Giuliano , Meredith Richard
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the impact and the link between some key strategic choices and financial performance of energy companies. In fact, in the light of the European energy directives and the related ransformations, it is interesting to analyze how much the financial performance of electricity and gas companies affects some choices related to some main characteristics of companies, and thus their active role.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses data collected from Amadeus, a database from Bureau Van Dyck, to create a sample consisting of an unbalanced panel of annual period series from 2009 to 2017. The sample includes all the electricity and gas limited retailer companies registred in two countries, Italy and the UK. The used method and post-estimations include probit models and as post-estimation marginal effects and matrices of correlation.

Findings

Results identify asset turnover (sales revenue/total assets), efficiency of invested capital, as the key drivers of the strategic decisions analyzed (that is being part of a group of companies, the business chosen, the type of country and if they are companies operating in more than one phase). Age, size and headquarter of company are also significant when they are included in a larger model as control variables.

Originality/value

The combination of the analysis of two of the largest European electricity and gas retail markets and inclusion of financial values as performance measures are key contributions of this paper.
A review of cutting tool life prediction through flank wear monitoring
Authors: Das Monojit , Naikan V.N.A. , Panja Subhash Chandra
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to review the literature on the prediction of cutting tool life. Tool life is typically estimated by predicting the time to reach the threshold flank wear width. The cutting tool is a crucial component in any machining process, and its failure affects the manufacturing process adversely. The prediction of cutting tool life by considering several factors that affect tool life is crucial to managing quality, cost, availability and waste in machining processes.

Design/methodology/approach

This study has undertaken the critical analysis and summarisation of various techniques used in the literature for predicting the life or remaining useful life (RUL) of the cutting tool through monitoring the tool wear, primarily flank wear. The experimental setups that comprise diversified machining processes, including turning, milling, drilling, boring and slotting, are covered in this review.

Findings

Cutting tool life is a stochastic variable. Tool failure depends on various factors, including the type and material of the cutting tool, work material, cutting conditions and machine tool. Thus, the life of the cutting tool for a particular experimental setup must be modelled by considering the cutting parameters.

Originality/value

This submission discusses tool life prediction comprehensively, from monitoring tool wear, primarily flank wear, to modelling tool life, and this type of comprehensive review on cutting tool life prediction has not been reported in the literature till now. The future suggestions provided in this review are expected to provide avenues to solve the unexplored challenges in this field.
Digital transformation of SMEs in times of uncertainty: effectuation perspective
Authors: Chen Shenglong , Cai Jiannan , Bogatyreva Karina , Quansah Ewuradjoa
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) increasingly implement digitalization in uncertain business environments. However, a dearth exists in the entrepreneurship literature for understanding the decision-making logic of digitalization as a management issue. Drawing on the effectuation theory, this study aims to explore the relationships between effectuation dimensions and SMEs’ digitalization.

Design/methodology/approach

Using quantitative data collected from 345 Chinese SMEs through questionnaires, the authors conducted the principal component analysis and hierarchical linear regression analysis.

Findings

The results highlight significant positive relationships between the four effectuation elements – experimentation, affordable loss, flexibility and precommitment – and SMEs’ digitalization. Moreover, this research considers the environmental conditions as moderators and reveals that environmental dynamism and complexity associated with high uncertainty negatively moderate the effects of effectuation on SMEs’ digitalization.

Practical implications

SMEs embarking on digitalization should constantly experiment to determine optimal strategies while contemplating their affordable losses. Flexibility should also be maintained to discard unproductive tactics and redirect to other viable options. Additionally, precommitments can reduce the risk that SMEs encounter in digitalization process. While the effectuation principles consolidate the likelihood of a successful digitalization, this research recommends that entrepreneurs should carefully consider their possible application in uncertain environments.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the entrepreneurship literature by theoretically clarifying the decision-making mechanism of digitalization and extends the application of effectuation to this context by illuminating the influences of effectuation principles on SMEs’ digital transformation. The identification of negative moderating effects of environmental uncertainty also augments an academic criticism about uncertainty creating the conditions for effectuation.
Exploring volunteers' emotional reactions to a potential transition from a non-profit organisation towards a social enterprise
Authors: Forgács-Fábián Sára , Takács Sándor , Anand Amitabh
Published: May 2024

Purpose

By focussing on the anticipated emotional reactions of volunteers and drawing on theories of motivation and identity, this study investigates how volunteers react to different options of the entrepreneurial model of Amigos for Children Foundation (ACF). The paper proposes a hypothetical model for volunteer’s emotional reactions to potential business model changes. We suggest the relative importance of intrinsic motivational factors, professional identity and attitudes towards business organisations as mediating variables. ACF works exclusively with university students as volunteers, so their specific characteristics may limit some of the conclusions and propositions of this qualitative research, but public policy consequences of supporting similar entrepreneurial transitions can be generally relevant.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the qualitative analysis of semi-structured interviews with volunteers of ACF, a Hungarian non-profit organisation, we explore the challenges of transitioning into a social enterprise.

Findings

Previous research showed controversial results about the impact of pay on the motivations of volunteers. For a non-profit organisation that would like to utilise the competencies of its volunteers, introducing a market-based service may mean additional financial resources and the potential loss of human resources. Understanding the moderating factors of volunteers' reactions might help build better theories for managing the non-profit-social enterprise transition and designing public policies to support scaling up the impact of successful social purpose organisations.

Originality/value

For practitioners, the research underlines the importance of participatory mechanisms in volunteer management. By managing transitions better, non-profit organisations can expand their social impact by acquiring more financial resources through market-based activities closely related to their original activities and keeping their volunteers. The study elucidates the relevance of the crowding-out effect and indicates some hypothetical moderating variables influencing its potential degree.
Impact of forensic accounting on fraud detection and prevention: a case of firms in Pakistan
Authors: Naz Iram , Khan Saleh Nawaz
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to assess the effectiveness of forensic accounting techniques to prevent and detect fraudulent activities in firms in Pakistan.

Design/methodology/approach

A descriptive research approach has been adopted in this study. Primary data has been collected through structured questionnaires distributed to professionals from investigating firms, professional bodies and field researchers. The independent variables that were analyzed included fraud investigation, litigation support and dispute resolution, whereas the dependent variables were fraud detection and prevention. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences has been used for data analysis to derive objective results.

Findings

This research reveals that forensic accounting techniques such as fraud investigation, litigation support and dispute resolution have a positive impact on fraud detection and prevention in Pakistani firms.

Practical implications

Firms should train staff on forensic accounting techniques, implement fraud risk management and anti-corruption policies, conduct regular financial statement audits and develop a whistleblower protection program to encourage employees to report fraudulent activities. The government should develop regulations and guidelines to promote the use of forensic accounting in firms.

Originality/value

This study is covering the gap in literature on financial fraud and forensic accounting practices concerning emerging economies such as Pakistan. This study can serve as a valuable resource for firms and policymakers to strengthen their fraud prevention efforts and build a more robust culture of financial integrity.
Determinants of relationship termination intentions and their evolution: a two time-lag approach
Authors: Wen Tianhao , Ha Hong-Youl
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Vertical business-to-business (B2B) relationship models are dynamic and depend on economic and relational constructs. However, it remains unclear how relationship termination intentions evolve across the mature and final stages of the B2B relationship cycle, particularly in the hospitality sector. Thus, this study investigates the dynamics of B2B relationship termination mechanisms.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use a two time-lag interval method to provide insights into how these two variables (relational satisfaction and partner trust) mediate (e.g. strengthen or weaken) the relationship between social dependence and relationship termination intentions over time.

Findings

The authors demonstrate that relational satisfaction is not directly linked to relationship termination intentions across B2B relationship stages. However, our findings show that social dependence and partner trust are both key determinants of relationship termination intentions over time. Based on the mature and final stages of a B2B relationship cycle, these results suggest that researchers must understand the theoretical mechanism of B2B relationships and the roles key constructs play in determining how these relationships conclude.

Originality/value

This study is novel in capturing the evolution of B2B relationship stages. This research presents the first collection of ample evidence on the manifestation of relationship termination in the transition from social dependence to reduced partner trust.
Simulation of coupled elasticity problem with pressure equation: hydroelastic equation
Authors: Hooshyarfarzin Baharak , Abbaszadeh Mostafa , Dehghan Mehdi
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The main aim of the current paper is to find a numerical plan for hydraulic fracturing problem with application in extracting natural gases and oil.

Design/methodology/approach

First, time discretization is accomplished via Crank-Nicolson and semi-implicit techniques. At the second step, a high-order finite element method using quadratic triangular elements is proposed to derive the spatial discretization. The efficiency and time consuming of both obtained schemes will be investigated. In addition to the popular uniform mesh refinement strategy, an adaptive mesh refinement strategy will be employed to reduce computational costs.

Findings

Numerical results show a good agreement between the two schemes as well as the efficiency of the employed techniques to capture acceptable patterns of the model. In central single-crack mode, the experimental results demonstrate that maximal values of displacements in x- and y- directions are 0.1 and 0.08, respectively. They occur around both ends of the line and sides directly next to the line where pressure takes impact. Moreover, the pressure of injected fluid almost gained its initial value, i.e. 3,000 inside and close to the notch. Further, the results for non-central single-crack mode and bifurcated crack mode are depicted. In central single-crack mode and square computational area with a uniform mesh, computational times corresponding to the numerical schemes based on the high order finite element method for spatial discretization and Crank-Nicolson as well as semi-implicit techniques for temporal discretizations are 207.19s and 97.47s, respectively, with 2,048 elements, final time T = 0.2 and time step size τ = 0.01. Also, the simulations effectively illustrate a further decrease in computational time when the method is equipped with an adaptive mesh refinement strategy. The computational cost is reduced to 4.23s when the governed model is solved with the numerical scheme based on the adaptive high order finite element method and semi-implicit technique for spatial and temporal discretizations, respectively. Similarly, in other samples, the reduction of computational cost has been shown.

Originality/value

This is the first time that the high-order finite element method is employed to solve the model investigated in the current paper.
Role perception and professional identity development of municipal police recruits in British Columbia
Authors: Hossain Md Asif
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The study aimed to address how recruits perceive their roles and develop professional identities during in-classroom and in-field training.

Design/methodology/approach

This study explored the professional identity formation process by analysing asynchronous surveys with recruits from 13 municipal police departments in British Columbia, Canada. The participants were surveyed twice: after classroom-based training following Block I at the British Columbia Police Academy (BCPA) and after their departmental field training following Block II.

Findings

The analysis revealed that police recruits lacking public safety experience transformed their occupation and lifestyle. The training at the police academy helped develop recruits' muscle memory as they applied their knowledge to the situation through hands-on practice. Moreover, teamwork at the police academy and during field training allowed recruits to form their police identity. The study was conducted between 2020 and 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic, thus revealing how the recruits learnt effectively whilst facing continuous challenges and adjusting.

Research limitations/implications

This study relied solely on the respondents' language in text-based answers; therefore, it was not possible to ask follow-up questions or seek clarification. Consequently, several inputs were excluded from the analysis. This would not have been the case if a quantitative method, where answers can be selected accurately, had been used.

Originality/value

This study demonstrates that police recruits acquire diverse competencies and skill sets through rigorous formal requirements, nuanced informal aspects and comprehensive training at the BCPA and during field training, all of which pivotal in shaping their professional identities.