bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ChatGPT: high-tech plagiarism awaits academic publishing green light. Non-fungible token (NFT) can be a way out
Authors: Mohammadzadeh Zahra , Ausloos Marcel , Saeidnia Hamid Reza
Published: May 2023

Purpose

ChatGPT from OpenAI is an amazing example of machine learning technology. This technology has now become an important issue for high-tech plagiarism concern. Indeed, there are many concerns about using this tool, perhaps using other technologies to make ChatGPT safer. Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) may be a way out. This paper aims to discuss such an alternative.

Design/methodology/approach

To preventing with high-tech plagiarism created by the ChatGPT tool two ways can help schools, universities and scientific centers to prevent academic plagiarism: first, by banning ChatGPT and adjusting teaching styles, and second, by using detecting AI-produced content. In this viewpoint, the authors suggest a third way that can be a way out.

Findings

NFTs technology has the ability to add a non-fungibility feature to any digital object (image, text or video). Therefore, any text produced by artificial intelligence tools can be given a specific NFT code. With this work, the authors add a feature to texts produced by artificial intelligence, that is, the non-fungibility feature.

Originality/value

In this viewpoint, how and why NFTs may be a usefully added value in preventing acts of high-tech plagiarism on ChatGPT is discussed.
Understanding the psychology of workplace bullies: the impact of Dark Tetrad and how to mitigate it
Authors: Khan Hira Salah ud din , Cristofaro Matteo , Chughtai Muhammad Salman , Baiocco Silvia
Published: May 2023

Purpose

How do dark personality traits impact workplace bullying (WB)? How can organizations mitigate it? This study aims to explore the relationship between the Dark Tetrad (DT) (narcissism, psychopathy [PY], Machiavellianism and sadism [SM]) and WB, proposing the mediation role of moral disengagement (MD) and the moderation role of emotional stability (ES).

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed mediated-moderation model was tested on 404 employees working in the hospitality sector in Pakistan. Data have been analyzed through regression analysis and PROCESS macros to test the study’s hypotheses.

Findings

PY, Machiavellianism and SM positively relate to WB and MD mediates this relationship. A high level of ES reduces the intensity of the mediated influence of PY, Machiavellianism and SM on WB.

Practical implications

Developing targeted policies and practices (e.g. personality tests to build a good psychological architecture of the firm) and reviewing processes that support the moral justification of antisocial conduct can be beneficial for limiting WB. In addition, meditation, mindfulness training and supporting trust and cooperation within organizations can increase the mitigating effect of ES and, in turn, reduce WB.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study that explicitly verifies a mediated-moderation model on DT-WB while proposing a further explanation (i.e. mediation of MD) and a novel solution (i.e., moderation by ES).
Personal interest, supervisory and research community support and dropout intentions among Finnish PhD candidates
Authors: Cornér Solveig , Tikkanen Lotta , Anttila Henrika , Pyhältö Kirsi
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study aims to advance the understanding on individual variations in PhD candidates’ personal interest in their doctorate and supervisory and research community support, and several individual and structural attributes potentially having an impact on the profiles.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors explored the interrelationship between personal interest – social support profiles, and nationality, gender, research group and study status and the risk of dropping out. A total of 768 PhD candidates from a research-intensive university in Finland responded to a modified version of the cross-cultural doctoral experience survey. Latent profile analysis was used to explore the individual variations in PhD candidates’ interest and support from the supervisor and research community.

Findings

Three distinctive PhD interest-social support profiles were detected; the high interest–high support profile (74.4%, n = 570), the high interest–moderate support profile (18.2%, n = 140) and the moderate interest–moderate support profile (7.4%, n = 56). The profiles exhibited high to moderate levels of research, development and instrumental interest. Individuals in the high interest–moderate support and in the moderate interest–moderate support profiles were more prone to consider dropping out from their PhD than in the high interest–high support profile.

Originality/value

The results indicate that by cultivating PhD candidates’ interest and providing sufficient supervisory and the research community offers a means for preventing candidates from discontinuing their doctorate. Hence, building a supportive learning environment that cultivates a PhD candidate’s personal interest is likely to reduce high dropout rates among the candidates.
Assessment of pedestrian-vehicular interaction at un-signalized intersections to measure the delay caused by crossing pedestrian on platoon vehicles
Authors: AlKheder Sharaf , Alkandari Ahmad , Aladwani Bader , Alkhamees Wasan
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study aims to validate a model for estimating platoon delay due to pedestrian crossing for use in Kuwait City.

Design/methodology/approach

The model was modified slightly for the scenario used in Kuwait, in which the presence of raised crosswalk meant that all incoming traffic would slow down automatically. Using video footage to observe the site, several variables were collected, and a model was used to calculate the delays suffered by the vehicles because of pedestrian crossing. The model was validated using the actual footage and manual observation to measure the delays.

Findings

The model showed a good match fit to the observed data, as the average delays differed by 22.5% between the two methods. Following the comparison, a sensitivity analysis was made on three variables: the acceleration rate, deceleration rate, as well as the pedestrian walking time. The analysis has shown that deceleration rate has approximately twice the effect on the model than the acceleration rate has. It has also shown that the pedestrian walking time has a major effect on the model, in an almost one-to-one correlation. A 50% change of the pedestrian walking time is associated with approximately 50% change in the model’s output delay.

Originality/value

A model for estimating platoon delay because of pedestrian crossing was validated for use in Kuwait City. The model was modified slightly for the scenario used in Kuwait, in which the presence of raised crosswalk meant that all incoming traffic would slow down automatically.
Reflow profiling with the aid of machine learning models
Authors: Lai Yangyang , Park Seungbae
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a method to quickly set the heating zone temperatures and conveyor speed of the reflow oven. This novel approach intensely eases the trial and error in reflow profiling and is especially helpful when reflowing thick printed circuit boards (PCBs) with bulky components. Machine learning (ML) models can reduce the time required for profiling from at least half a day of trial and error to just 1 h.

Design/methodology/approach

A highly compact computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model was used to simulate the reflow process, exhibiting an error rate of less than 1.5%. Validated models were used to generate data for training regression models. By leveraging a set of experiment results, the unknown input factors (i.e. the heat capacities of the bulkiest component and PCB) can be determined inversely. The trained Gaussian process regression models are then used to perform virtual reflow optimization while allowing a 4°C tolerance for peak temperatures. Upon ensuring that the profiles are inside the safe zone, the corresponding reflow recipes can be implemented to set up the reflow oven.

Findings

ML algorithms can be used to interpolate sparse data and provide speedy responses to simulate the reflow profile. This proposed approach can effectively address optimization problems involving multiple factors.

Practical implications

The methodology used in this study can considerably reduce labor costs and time consumption associated with reflow profiling, which presently relies heavily on individual experience and skill. With the user interface and regression models used in this approach, reflow profiles can be swiftly simulated, facilitating iterative experiments and numerical modeling with great effectiveness. Smart reflow profiling has the potential to enhance quality control and increase throughput.

Originality/value

In this study, the employment of the ultimate compact CFD model eliminates the constraint of components’ configuration, as effective heat capacities are able to determine the temperature profiles of the component and PCB. The temperature profiles generated by the regression models are time-sequenced and in the same format as the CFD results. This approach considerably reduces the cost associated with training data, which is often a major challenge in the development of ML models.
Intensive specialised multi‐family therapy for multi‐stressed families: Therapeutic alliance as predictor for effectiveness
Authors: van Beek Yolanda , Hessen David , Levelt Lisa , Beijer Daniëla , Rijnberk Corine , Maras Athanasios , Overbeek Mathilde M.
Published: May 2023

The effectiveness of intense specialised multi‐family therapy (ISMFT) for 111 multi‐stressed families, and the therapeutic alliance as a possible predictor of outcome, were examined. A repeated measures design was used, where changes in all ISMFT phases (preparation, multi‐family therapy and follow‐up) were assessed and compared for both mothers and fathers. Evidence was found for improved family functioning after the therapy period, which was maintained at 3 months follow‐up, although the multi‐stressed families still functioned in the problematic range. The therapy did however not decrease parenting stress, or did so only temporarily. Observations of the therapeutic alliance with the System for Observing Family Therapy Alliances (SOFTA) scales indicated that high therapist engagement was related to positive therapy outcomes, both at the start of therapy and later. High family engagement also predicted therapy effectiveness, but only at the start of therapy. The present study shows that solution‐focused multi‐family therapy at least seems to provide the first step in alleviating problems in multi‐stressed families.
Why some hotels get it right and others don't: Perspective of situational crisis communication theory towards crisis response strategies
Authors: Chaskar Amrita , Upadhyay Shalini
Published: May 2023

As the victims of the COVID‐19 pandemic, hotels depend on effective crisis leadership to respond to the crisis. Despite its significance, limited studies have accentuated the role of crisis leadership in an organization's intention to engage in effective crisis response. To fill this gap, this study examines the hotels' crisis responses in a Victim crisis cluster based on the intention to respond using Situational Crisis Communication Theory (SCCT). The findings reveal Denial along with Bolstering strategies to be prominent. The findings offer theoretical and practical implications to tourism and hospitality research by illustrating the role of crisis leadership for an effective crisis response during an unprecedented crisis, especially during the victim type crisis.
Geoforensic search to crime scene: Remote sensing, geophysics, and dogs
Authors: Ruffell Alastair , Rocke Benjamin , Powell Neil
Published: May 2023

In the absence of surface indications of burial sites, law enforcement or humanitarian organizations are faced with the difficult task of focusing large‐scale ground searches to a manageable excavation area. A geoforensic‐based survey may exclude parts of the landscape for reasons such as diggability or viewshed analysis but leave areas still too large for invasive exploration. This work examines how drone‐based remote sensing, geophysics, and search dogs may be combined to narrow such searches. Here, we ask the reader to consider two examples where forensic geomorphology and land use provided a range of possible burial locations. Following this is a multi‐proxy approach to similar dilemma, with a search‐to‐scene case study using remote sensing (drone photography), geophysics, ground probes, and search dogs. This approach is not presented as a definitive guide, but serves as an example of the conjunctive use of well‐studied methods to approach a common problem in geoforensics.
Effect of various pretreatments of potato on the cooking and texture properties of the developed potato–rice noodle
Authors: Shi Congzhen , Wei Zhencheng , Zhang Yan , Deng Yuanyuan , Liu Guang , Li Ping , Zhao Zhihao , Zhou Pengfei , Luo Lijuan , Luo Leyi , Tang Xiaojun , Zhang Mingwei
Published: May 2023

In order to ascertain optimal potato pretreatment strategy for potato–rice noodle processing, the effect of partial substitution of rice flour with potatoes processed by various pretreatment on rice noodle quality was determined. In this study, raw potato flour (RPF), cooked potato flour (CPF), potato pulp (PP), mashed potato (MP), and rice flour (RF) were prepared. The physicochemical and pasting properties of RF sample, RPF + RF, PP + RF, CPF + RF, and MP + RF blends were investigated relative to their noodle quality. The results indicated that compared to RF, CPF + RF, and MP + RF blends, RPF + RF and PP + RF blends exhibited a lower degree of starch damage, solubility, and breakdown viscosity, as well as higher relative crystallinity, final, and setback viscosity, which are favorable to quality of noodles. Therefore, the noodles made from RPF + RF and PP + RF showed the most desirable cooking quality and texture. In summary, high damaged starch content and excessive amylose content were detrimental to noodle making. Consequently, our research revealed that RPF/pulp (ungelatinized potato materials) blended with rice flour can be employed to produce decent potato–rice noodles.

Practical Application

Cooked potato flour is main processing method of commercial potato flour and widely used in potato staple food industry. However, the results of our study show that raw potato flour and potato pulp are more suitable for processing of potato–rice noodle than cooked potato flour and mashed potato and can significantly improve the quality of rice noodle. This provides new ideas and insights for the preprocessing of raw potato in the potato staple food industry and the quality improvement of rice noodle.

Highlights

The physicochemical properties of potatoes changed with various pretreatments.

Excessive amylose content and starch damage were detrimental to noodle making.

Partial substitution of rice flour with raw potato flour/pulp improved rice noodle quality.

Raw and ungelatinized potato material is preferable for potato–rice noodle making.
Toward absolute abundance for conservation applications: Estimating the number of contributors via microhaplotype genotyping of mixed‐DNA samples
Authors: Shi Yue , Dick Cory M. , Karpan Kirby , Baetscher Diana , Henderson Mark J. , Sethi Suresh A. , McPhee Megan V. , Larson Wesley A.
Published: May 2023

Molecular methods including metabarcoding and quantitative polymerase chain reaction have shown promise for estimating species abundance by quantifying the concentration of genetic material in field samples. However, the relationship between specimen abundance and detectable concentrations of genetic material is often variable in practice. DNA mixture analysis represents an alternative approach to quantify specimen abundance based on the presence of unique alleles in a sample. The DNA mixture approach provides novel opportunities to inform ecology and conservation by estimating the absolute abundance of target taxa through molecular methods; yet, the challenges associated with genotyping many highly variable markers in mixed‐DNA samples have prevented its widespread use. To advance molecular approaches for abundance estimation, we explored the utility of microhaplotypes for DNA mixture analysis by applying a 125‐marker panel to 1179 Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) smolts from the Sacramento‐San Joaquin Delta, California, USA. We assessed the accuracy of DNA mixture analysis through a combination of mock mixtures containing DNA from up to 20 smolts and a trophic ecological application enumerating smolts in predator diets. Mock DNA mixtures of up to 10 smolts could reliably be resolved using microhaplotypes, and increasing the panel size would likely facilitate the identification of more individuals. However, while analysis of predator gastrointestinal tract contents indicated DNA mixture analysis could discern the presence of multiple prey items, poor and variable DNA quality prevented accurate genotyping and abundance estimation. Our results indicate that DNA mixture analysis can perform well with high‐quality DNA, but methodological improvements in genotyping degraded DNA are necessary before this approach can be used on marginal‐quality samples.
High density and proximity of CD8+T cells to tumor cells are correlated with better response to nivolumab treatment in metastatic pleural mesothelioma
Authors: Yin Yuting , Sakakibara Rie , Honda Takayuki , Kirimura Susumu , Daroonpan Pissacha , Kobayashi Masashi , Ando Kohei , Ujiie Hideki , Kato Tatsuya , Kaga Kichizo , Mitsumura Takahiro , Nakano Ryoji , Sakashita Hiroyuki , Matsuge Shinichi , Ishibashi Hironori , Akashi Takumi , Hida Yasuhiro , Morohoshi Takao , Azuma Miyuki , Okubo Kenichi , Miyazaki Yasunari
Published: May 2023

Background

The efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in pleural mesothelioma has recently been established. The response to ICIs can be predicted by quantitative analysis of cells and their spatial distribution in the tumor microenvironment (TME). However, the detailed composition of the TME in pleural mesothelioma has not been reported. We evaluated the association between the TME and response to ICIs in this cancer.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 22 pleural mesothelioma patients treated with nivolumab in different centers was performed using surgical specimens. Four patients had a partial response to nivolumab (response group) and 18 patients had stable or progressive disease (nonresponse group). The number of CD4, CD8, FoxP3, CK, and PD‐L1 positive cells, cell density, and cell‐to‐cell distance were analyzed by multiplex immunofluorescence.

Results

PD‐L1 expression did not differ significantly between the response and nonresponse groups. The density of total T cells and of CD8+ T cells was significantly higher in the response than in the nonresponse group. CD8+ T cells were more clustered and located closer to tumor cells, whereas regulatory T cells were located further from tumor cells in the response than in the nonresponse group.

Conclusions

High density and spatial proximity of CD8+ T cells to tumor cells were associated with better response to nivolumab, whereas the proximity of regulatory T cells to tumor cells was associated with worse response, suggesting that the distinct landscape of the TME could be a potential predictor of ICI efficacy in pleural mesothelioma.
Mid‐life leukocyte telomere length and dementia risk: An observational and mendelian randomization study of 435,046 UK Biobank participants
Authors: Liu Rui , Xiang Meiruo , Pilling Luke C. , Melzer David , Wang Lihong , Manning Kevin J. , Steffens David C. , Bowden Jack , Fortinsky Richard H. , Kuchel George A. , Rhee Taeho G. , Diniz Breno S. , Kuo Chia‐Ling
Published: May 2023

Telomere attrition is one of biological aging hallmarks and may be intervened to target multiple aging‐related diseases, including Alzheimer's disease and Alzheimer's disease related dementias (AD/ADRD). The objective of this study was to assess associations of leukocyte telomere length (TL) with AD/ADRD and early markers of AD/ADRD, including cognitive performance and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) phenotypes. Data from European‐ancestry participants in the UK Biobank (n = 435,046) were used to evaluate whether mid‐life leukocyte TL is associated with incident AD/ADRD over a mean follow‐up of 12.2 years. In a subsample without AD/ADRD and with brain imaging data (n = 43,390), we associated TL with brain MRI phenotypes related to AD or vascular dementia pathology. Longer TL was associated with a lower risk of incident AD/ADRD (adjusted Hazard Ratio [aHR] per SD = 0.93, 95% CI 0.90–0.96, p = 3.37 × 10−7). Longer TL also was associated with better cognitive performance in specific cognitive domains, larger hippocampus volume, lower total volume of white matter hyperintensities, and higher fractional anisotropy and lower mean diffusivity in the fornix. In conclusion, longer TL is inversely associated with AD/ADRD, cognitive impairment, and brain structural lesions toward the development of AD/ADRD. However, the relationships between genetically determined TL and the outcomes above were not statistically significant based on the results from Mendelian randomization analysis results. Our findings add to the literature of prioritizing risk for AD/ADRD. The causality needs to be ascertained in mechanistic studies.
Accelerated replicative senescence of ataxia‐telangiectasia skin fibroblasts is retained at physiologic oxygen levels, with unique and common transcriptional patterns
Authors: Haj Majd , Levon Amit , Frey Yann , Hourvitz Noa , Campisi Judith , Tzfati Yehuda , Elkon Ran , Ziv Yael , Shiloh Yosef
Published: May 2023

The genetic disorder, ataxia‐telangiectasia (A‐T), is caused by loss of the homeostatic protein kinase, ATM, and combines genome instability, tissue degeneration, cancer predisposition, and premature aging. Primary fibroblasts from A‐T patients exhibit premature senescence when grown at ambient oxygen concentration (21%). Here, we show that reducing oxygen concentration to a physiological level range (3%) dramatically extends the proliferative lifespan of human A‐T skin fibroblasts. However, they still undergo senescence earlier than control cells grown under the same conditions and exhibit high genome instability. Comparative RNA‐seq analysis of A‐T and control fibroblasts cultured at 3% oxygen followed by cluster analysis of differentially expressed genes and functional enrichment analysis, revealed distinct transcriptional dynamics in A‐T fibroblasts senescing in physiological oxygen concentration. While some transcriptional patterns were similar to those observed during replicative senescence of control cells, others were unique to the senescing A‐T cells. We observed in them a robust activation of interferon‐stimulated genes, with undetected expression the interferon genes themselves. This finding suggests an activation of a non‐canonical cGAS‐STING‐mediated pathway, which presumably responds to cytosolic DNA emanating from extranuclear micronuclei detected in these cells. Senescing A‐T fibroblasts also exhibited a marked, intriguely complex alteration in the expression of genes associated with extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. Notably, many of the induced ECM genes encode senescence‐associated secretory phenotype (SASP) factors known for their paracrine pro‐fibrotic effects. Our data provide a molecular dimension to the segmental premature aging observed in A‐T patients and its associated symptoms, which develop as the patients advance in age.
Board interlocks, career prospects and corporate social responsibility
Authors: Vo Lai Van , Le Huong Thi Thu , Kim Youngbin
Published: May 2023

This paper investigates how director career concerns affect the relation between board interlocks and corporate social responsibility (CSR). We first document that firms with central or well‐connected boards of directors tend to invest more in CSR. We then show that the positive relation between board connectedness and CSR is significantly more pronounced for firms whose directors' future careers would benefit more from CSR, such as those with better corporate governance, firms with larger investments in research and development or firms with high product market threats. Our findings suggest that director career concerns play an important role in the board of directors' decision on CSR investments.
Seasonal changes in the scrotal skin histology in relation to thermoregulation and testosterone level in camel and buffalo bull
Authors: Ahmed Shakil , Qureshi Anas Sarwar , Usman Muhammad , Rehan Sarmad , Deeba Farrah , Ateeq Muhammad Khalil , Younus Muhammad , Naeem Muhammad Ahsan , Umar Zaima , Taseer Muhammad Sulman Ali
Published: May 2023

This study was conducted to compare the scrotal skin dynamics of camel and buffalo bulls regarding thermoregulation, season and testosterone. Scrotal skin and blood samples (n = 8 each) were collected during breeding (October to March) and non‐breeding seasons (April to August). Tissue slides were prepared by the paraffin embedding technique followed by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and were analysed by ImageJ®. Relative humidity and temperature were recorded in different seasons to calculate the thermal humidity index (THI). Serum testosterone level was estimated through radioimmunoassay (RIA). The data were analysed by applying ANOVA, the THS test was used as a post‐ANOVA interface and the correlation coefficient was also calculated among season, testosterone and skin parameters. The results showed that skin thickness, season and THI were negatively correlated with testosterone levels. In the neck, body and apex, the papillary layer was thicker in buffalo bull compared to camel bull during the breeding season; however, the reticular layer followed a reverse trend in the apex when THI was low. In the scrotal neck during the non‐breeding season, hair follicle (HF) length and density were recorded high in camel bull compared to buffalo bull when THI was elevated. The density of HF followed the otherwise trend in the apex during the breeding season. The density of SG was found highest in all regions of camel bull as compared to buffalo bull and showed direct relation with THI. To conclude, this study delineates how the histo‐dynamics of scrotal skin varies and accommodate itself with testosterone and THI over the different season in camel and buffalo.
Up to the maximum—testosterone dose‐dependent effects on anabolic and androgen responsive tissues in orchiectomized rats
Authors: Derwand Daniel , Zierau Oliver , Thieme Detlef , Keiler Annekathrin Martina
Published: May 2023

Background

Despite the high number of synthetic androgenic–anabolic steroids, testosterone is still misused for doping in amateur and professional sports.

However, only few studies investigated the dose–response effects of testosterone beyond its physiological concentrations and in over 90 years of research, no saturation dosage has been experimentally described for exogenous testosterone administration.

Objectives

We want to elucidate the physiological and pathophysiological effects of supra‐physiological testosterone application and close this gap in testosterone dose–response data.

Materials and methods

Male orchiectomized rats were treated with different testosterone doses ranging from 0.1 to 50 mg/kg body weight for 3 weeks. Several physiological endpoints (e.g., body weight, organ and muscle weight, muscle strength, muscle fiber size) were examined during and after the termination of the treatment with an adjusted Hershberger assay, open‐field‐test, and (immuno‐)histologic.

Results

The wet weights of androgen responsive organs (penis, prostate, seminal vesicle) showed a significant increase in a dose‐dependent manner. Histological evaluation of the prostate showed a significant higher percentage of KI67 positive prostate nuclei in the highest dosage group and an increasing hyperplasia with increasing testosterone administered. A significant anabolic effect was only observed in Levator ani wet weight, and to minor degree for the cardiac muscle. Regarding other skeletal muscles (Musculus soleus and Musculus gastrognemicus), no significant testosterone effects were observed. We showed a significant increasing dosage–response effect for testosterone in androgen responsive organs with saturation at the two highest concentration of 10 and 50 mg/kg body weight.

Discussion and conclusion

The dose‐dependent androgenic effects of testosterone were well observable and the anabolic effects on muscle tissue were visible although to a lesser degree, without the support of aerobic exercise and a protein rich diet. Future studies should investigate a combinatorial effect of testosterone and training. Nevertheless, with the chosen range of applied testosterone, we showed a saturation of testosterone effects in prostate, seminal vesicle, penis, and Levator ani.
Iatrogenic ureteral injury during colorectal surgery has a significant impact on patient outcomes: a French multicentric retrospective cohort study
Authors: Sérénon Victor , Rouanet Philippe , Charleux‐Muller Diane , Eveno Clarisse , Poirot Karine , Trilling Bertrand , Benoist Stéphane , Manceau Gilles , Panis Yves , Alves Arnaud , Kartheuser Alex , Venara Aurélien , Pocard Marc , Sabbagh Charles , Laforest Anaïs , Lakkis Zaher , Badic Bogdan , Chau Amélie , Christou Niki , Beyer‐Berjot Laura , Dumont Frederic , Germain Adeline , Valverde Alain , Duchalais Emilie , Ouaissi Mehdi , Benhaim Leonor , Collard Maxime , Tuech Jean‐Jacques , Buscail Etienne , Mege Diane ,   the French Research Group of Rectal Cancer Surgery (GRECCAR)
Published: May 2023

Aim

The long‐term urological sequelae after iatrogenic ureteral injury (IUI) during colorectal surgery are not clearly known. The aims of this work were to report the incidence of IUI and to analyse the long‐term consequences of urological late complications and their impact on oncological results of IUI occurring during colorectal surgery through a French multicentric experience (GRECCAR group).

Method

All the patients who presented with IUI during colorectal surgery between 2010 and 2019 were retrospectively included. Patients with ureteral involvement needing en bloc resection, delayed ureteral stricture or noncolorectal surgery were not considered.

Results

A total of 202 patients (93 men, mean age 63 ± 14 years) were identified in 29 centres, corresponding to 0.32% of colorectal surgeries (n = 63 562). Index colorectal surgery was mainly oncological (n = 130, 64%). IUI was diagnosed postoperatively in 112 patients (55%) after a mean delay of 11 ± 9 days. Intraoperative diagnosis of IUI was significantly associated with shorter length of stay (21 ± 22 days vs. 34 ± 22 days, p < 0.0001), lower rates of postoperative hydronephrosis (2% vs. 10%, p = 0.04), anastomotic complication (7% vs. 22.5%, p = 0.002) and thromboembolic event (0% vs. 6%, p = 0.02) than postoperative diagnosis of IUI. Delayed chemotherapy because of IUI was reported in 27% of patients. At the end of the follow‐up [3 ± 2.6 years (1 month–13 years)], 72 patients presented with urological sequalae (36%). Six patients (3%) required a nephrectomy.

Conclusion

IUI during colorectal surgery has few consequences for the patients if recognized early. Long‐term urological sequelae can occur in a third of patients. IUI may affect oncological outcomes in colorectal surgery by delaying adjuvant chemotherapy, especially when the ureteral injury is not diagnosed peroperatively.
Development and validation of a nomogram model to predict primary graft dysfunction in patients after lung transplantation based on the clinical factors
Authors: Qin Jianan , Hu Chunxiao , Cao Xiaodong , Gao Jian , Chen Yuan , Yan Meiqiong , Chen Jingyu
Published: May 2023

Background

Primary graft dysfunction (PGD), a significant complication that can affect patients' prognosis and quality of life, develops within 72 h post lung transplantation (LTx). Early detection and prevention of PGD should be given special consideration. The purpose of this study was to create a clinical prediction model to forecast the occurrence of PGD.

Methods

We collected information on 622 LTx patients from Wuxi People's Hospital from 2016 to 2020 and used the data to construct the prediction model. Information on 224 patients from 2021 to June 2022 was used for external validation. We used LASSO regression for variable screening. A nomogram was developed for model presentation. Distinctness, fit, and calibration were used to evaluate the performance of the model.

Results

Subjects with respiratory failure, who received fresh frozen plasma, donor age, donor gender, donor mechanism of death, donor smoking, donor ventilator use time, and donor PaO 2/FiO 2 ratio were independent predictor variables for the occurrence of PGD. The area under the curve of the nomogram was .779. The Hosmer‐Lemeshow test showed a good model fit (P = .158). The calibration curve of the nomogram is fairly close to the ideal diagonal. Moreover, the decision curve analysis revealed a positive net benefit of the model. External validation also confirmed the reliability of the model.

Conclusions

The nomogram of PGD based on clinical risk factors in postoperative LTx patients was established with high reliability. It provides clinicians and nurses with a new and effective tool for early prediction of PGD and early intervention.
Opioid‐related policy changes: Experiences and perspectives from people who use opioids to manage non‐cancer chronic pain
Authors: Haines Sarah , Savic Michael , Nielsen Suzanne , Carter Adrian
Published: May 2023

Introduction

People who use prescription opioids to manage non‐cancer chronic pain are particularly vulnerable to opioid‐related policy change. This study aims to better understand what prescription opioids provide this population, what concerns they have in the context of new and changing opioid policies, such as the recently implemented prescription drug monitoring program in Victoria, Australia, their experiences of prescription opioid use, chronic pain and what they would like their healthcare to look like.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 30 people who use opioids to manage chronic non‐cancer pain.

Results

Prescription opioids played an important role in supporting quality of life and mental health. However, experiences of stigma and lack of empathy from healthcare providers were common. Participants sought accurate information about their medications and expressed a desire for shared decision‐making in healthcare.

Discussion and Conclusion

Prescription opioids can play an important role in pain management as well as social and psychological functioning for people living with non‐cancer chronic pain. Opioid‐related policy changes to medication availability need to consider the potential impacts that reducing, limiting or discontinuing opioids may have on this population. Including the voices of people who use prescription opioids to manage non‐cancer chronic pain in respectful, compassionate and meaningful ways.
Factors associated with hepatitis C treatment uptake among females of childbearing age in New South Wales, Australia: A population‐based study
Authors: Valerio Heather , Alavi Maryam , Marshall Alison D. , Hajarizadeh Behzad , Amin Janaki , Law Matthew , Tillakeratne Shane , George Jacob , Degenhardt Louisa , Grebely Jason , Matthews Gail V. , Dore Gregory J.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Females of childbearing age with hepatitis C virus (HCV) face increased marginalisation with intersecting, sex‐specific barriers to direct acting antiviral (DAA) therapy. We assessed the factors associated with uptake of DAA therapy among females of childbearing age, including those with evidence of recent drug dependence.

Methods

HCV notifications in New South Wales, Australia (1995–2017) were linked to opioid agonist therapy (OAT), hospitalisations, incarcerations, perinatal, HIV notifications, deaths and prescription databases. Recent drug dependence was defined as hospitalisation due to injectable drugs or receipt of OAT occurring in the DAA era (2016–2018). Logistic regression was used to analyse factors associated with DAA uptake among females of childbearing age (18–44), including those with recent drug dependence.

Results

Among 57,467 people with evidence of chronic HCV in the DAA era (2016–2018), 20,161 (35%) were female, including 33% (n = 6563/20,161) of childbearing age (18–44). Among all females of childbearing age (n = 6563) and those with evidence of recent drug dependence (n = 2278/6563, 35%), DAA uptake was lower among those who had given birth in the DAA era (vs. no birth record, all females of childbearing age; aOR: 0.74, 95% CI 0.61, 0.89; those with recent drug dependence; aOR 0.69, 95% CI 0.51, 0.93) and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples (all females of childbearing age; aOR 0.81, 95% CI 0.71, 0.93; those with recent drug dependence aOR 0.75, 95% CI 0.62, 0.90).

Conclusion

Females of childbearing age should be considered a key population for DAA therapy. Enhancing antenatal and postnatal HCV care may be critical in the pursuit towards elimination.
A predatory mite that suppresses Diaphorina citri populations on plants with pollen and oviposition sites
Authors: Kalile Milena O. , Cardoso André C. , Pallini Angelo , Fonseca Morgana M. , Ferreira‐Junior Tarciso A. , Janssen Arne
Published: May 2023

The Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Psyllidae), is the major citrus pest worldwide because it can transmit the bacteria associated with citrus greening disease (huanglongbing, HLB). The most common management strategy of this pest is chemical control, but this often results in pest resistance and threatens the sustainability of the citrus culture. There is therefore need for sustainable control strategies such as biological control. Previous experiments showed that the predatory mite Amblyseius herbicolus Chant (Acari: Phytoseiidae) is able to develop and reproduce on D. citri eggs. Here, we studied the population dynamics of this pest on plants with and without A. herbicolus on isolated orange jasmine plants, Murraya paniculata (L.) Jack (Rutaceae), an important host plant of the pest. Predatory mites were released 1 week before the release of D. citri and were provided with twines with pollen as oviposition sites and food source, respectively, to maintain populations of A. herbicolus in the absence of the pest. Densities of adults and nymphs of D. citri on plants with predators were about 85% lower than on plants without predators, showing that A. herbicolus is a potential biocontrol agent of D. citri. However, the stage structure of the D. citri populations at the end of the experiment did not differ significantly between control plants and plants with predators. This led us to investigate whether the predator attacked other stages besides eggs. Indeed, predators were able to feed and reproduce on first and second instar nymphs of D. citri, but not on instars 3–5. Concluding, the release of A. herbicolus with alternative food and oviposition sites can reduce infestations of D. citri. We suggest that field experiments should be done in areas where HLB occurs to test whether releases of this predator limit the spread of this devastating disease.
Mesenchymal stromal cells and CAR‐T cells in regenerative medicine: The homing procedure and their effective parameters
Authors: Kolahi Azar Hanieh , Imanpour Aylar , Rezaee Hanieh , Ezzatifar Fatemeh , Zarei‐Behjani Zeinab , Rostami Mohammadreza , Azami Mahmoud , Behestizadeh Nima , Rezaei Nima
Published: May 2023

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)‐T cells are two core elements in cell therapy procedures. MSCs have significant immunomodulatory effects that alleviate inflammation in the tissue regeneration process, while administration of specific chemokines and adhesive molecules would primarily facilitate CAR‐T cell trafficking into solid tumors. Multiple parameters affect cell homing, including the recipient's age, the number of cell passages, proper cell culture, and the delivery method. In addition, several chemokines are involved in the tumor microenvironment, affecting the homing procedure. This review discusses parameters that improve the efficiency of cell homing and significant cell therapy challenges. Emerging comprehensive mechanistic strategies such as non‐systemic and systemic homing that revealed a significant role in cell therapy remodeling were also reviewed. Finally, the primary implications for the development of combination therapies that incorporate both MSCs and CAR‐T cells for cancer treatment were discussed.
Multiplant Location Involving Resource Allocation
Authors: Feng Xin
Published: May 2023

Recently, a multisource, raw material allocation form of Weber's classic single‐facility location problem was rediscovered and recognized for its significance in contemporary planning and decision‐making. This variation of the Weber problem investigates the location of a production plant while permitting the selection of each required raw material source. This article reviews the Weber problem with an emphasis on its extension to incorporate multiple facilities. The only formulated multiplant Weber problem involving resource allocation remains unsolved due to its complexity. An effective approach integrating GIS processing (i.e., the Voronoi diagram and vector‐based overlay) with the classic optimization algorithm (i.e., the Weiszfeld algorithm) is developed to address raw material sourcing in the process of siting facilities. The implementation relies entirely on open‐source Python packages, making the work reproducible, replicable, and expandable. Application findings demonstrate that the utility and computational efficiency of the proposed method to tackle this challenging problem are superior to those of the most advanced commercial optimization software.
Success rate of permanent teeth pulpotomy using bioactive materials: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Silva Emmanuel J. N. L. , Pinto Karem P. , Belladonna Felipe G. , Ferreira Claudio M. A. , Versiani Marco A. , De‐Deus Gustavo
Published: May 2023

Background

The results of vital pulp treatments in permanent teeth have been encouraging. Currently, pulpotomy treatment for permanent teeth primarily utilizes mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) as the dressing material, followed by calcium hydroxide. While other calcium‐silicate‐based cements have been suggested for pulpotomy, there is a limited number of studies evaluating their long‐term effectiveness.

Objectives

The objective of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to evaluate the success rate of pulpotomies performed on permanent teeth, comparing the use of ProRoot MTA with that of calcium hydroxide and other bioceramic materials.

Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted in several electronic databases, including PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase and Science Direct until December 2022. The search was guided by PICOS criteria, including only randomized clinical trials (RCTs) that evaluated the success rate of pulpotomy treatments in permanent teeth using ProRoot MTA in comparison to calcium hydroxide and other bioceramic materials. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the RoB‐2 tool to evaluate the risk of bias, and relevant data were extracted and analysed in RevMan software 5.3 using fixed‐effect models. The GRADE tool was used to determine the overall quality of evidence.

Results

The initial search retrieved 1072 studies and, after eliminating duplicates, 677 studies were screened and 28 studies were considered for eligibility. In the final selection process, 16 studies were included in the systematic review, with 10 being determined as having a high risk of bias. Pulpotomy showed an overall mean success rate of 92% after 1 year. The meta‐analysis indicated a significantly higher success rate for pulpotomies utilizing MTA in comparison with calcium hydroxide, while no significant difference was seen between MTA and calcium‐enriched mixture (CEM) or Biodentine. The GRADE assessment revealed an overall low level of evidence for the included studies.

Discussion

Most randomized controlled trials exhibited a significant absence of control over confounding factors.

Conclusions

This systematic review and meta‐analysis demonstrate that pulpotomy is a highly effective treatment for managing permanent teeth. The results indicate that the success rate of pulpotomy using ProRoot MTA is significantly higher than when using calcium hydroxide. However, the certainty of evidence supporting these findings is low, and there is a need for well‐designed RCTs to assess the long‐term outcomes of pulpotomy using newer bioceramic materials.

Registration

This systematic review was registered in the PROSPERO database (registration number CRD42023393970).
Risk factors for malignancy and serious infection in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Tassone Daniel , Basnayake Chamara , Wright Emily , Lust Mark , Kamm Michael A. , Niewiadomski Ola , Schulberg Julien , Flanagan Emma , Samyue Tamie , Fry Stephanie , Malcolm Ruth , Stanley Annalise , Thompson Alexander J. , Connell William R. , Ding Nik S.
Published: May 2023

Background

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are at increased risk of malignancy and infection compared to the general population.

Aims

We aim to identify risk factors for malignancy or serious infection in our IBD cohort.

Methods

Patients with IBD from a single tertiary referral centre were included. Demographic and clinical details, including immunosuppressant exposure, were collected and medical records retrospectively screened for adverse events, including malignancy or infection requiring hospitalisation. Logistic regression was used to evaluate risk factors for adverse events.

Results

Five hundred and forty‐nine patients with IBD (340 Crohn disease (CD) and 209 ulcerative colitis (UC)) were studied. Forty‐eight malignancies, including 39 (81.3%) non‐melanoma skin cancers, 3 (6.3%) haematologic malignancies and 6 (15.4%) solid‐organ malignancies, were identified, and 92 cases of serious infection were detected. IBD duration (odds ratio (OR) = 1.08; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.03–1.13) and ileocolonic CD (OR = 4.96; 95% CI = 1.13–21.71) were associated with increased odds of overall cancer. Compared with patients not previously exposed to the given class of immunosuppression assessed, the development of overall malignancy was not higher with thiopurine exposure (OR = 1.00; 95% CI = 0.50–2.24) or anti‐tumour necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) exposure (OR = 0.78; 95% CI = 0.37–1.64). Similarly, compared with patients not exposed, infection risk was not affected by thiopurine (OR = 0.74; 95% CI = 0.46–1.20) or anti‐TNF exposure (OR = 0.60; 95% CI = 0.38–0.95).

Conclusions

Factors including ileocolonic CD and increasing IBD duration were associated with higher malignancy risk in this cohort. Compared with non‐exposure, patients exposed to thiopurines were not at increased risk of malignancy or serious infection. Similarly, patients exposed to anti‐TNF treatment did not experience increased rates of malignancy or serious infection compared to patients not exposed to this treatment.
How therapeutic advances have transformed the medical landscape: a primer for clinicians
Authors: Ghinea Narcyz , Lipworth Wendy , Kerridge Ian , Zalcberg John R.
Published: May 2023

Novel medicines are entering the market rapidly and are increasingly being used alone or in combination to treat illnesses of every sort. While transforming the lives of many patients, these new therapies have also forced us to reconsider the way we evaluate, use and fund medicines. This article offers a primer to help practitioners understand how the therapeutic landscape is changing and how this might impact the evidence generation, access to interventions, patient experience and quality of care.