bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Book of Marvels and Travels
Authors: Mandeville John
Published: December 2024

In his Book of Marvels and Travels, Sir John Mandeville describes a journey from Europe
to Jerusalem and on into Asia, and the many wonderful and monstrous peoples and practices in the East.
He tells us about the Sultan in Cairo, the Great Khan in China, and the mythical Christian prince
Prester John. There are giants and pygmies, cannibals and Amazons, headless humans and people with a
single foot so huge it can shield them from the sun . Forceful and opinionated, the narrator is by turns
bossy, learned, playful, and moralizing, with an endless curiosity about different cultures.

Written in the fourteenth century, the Book is a captivating blend of fact and fantasy,
an extraordinary travel narrative that offers some revealing and unexpected attitudes towards other
races and religions. It was immensely popular, and numbered among its readers Chaucer, Columbus, and
Thomas More. Anthony Bale's new translation emphasizes the book's readability, and his introduction and
notes bring us closer to Mandeville's medieval worldview.
Return to the Route Via Constantinople
Authors: Mandeville John
Published: December 2024

Now I return to the route via Constantinople. If one wishes to go through Turkey, one travels towards the city of Nicaea and passes through the gate of Civetot, which is extremely high up in the mountains and a mile and a half from...
A Longer Way, by Sea, to Jerusalem
Authors: Mandeville John
Published: December 2024

If one wants to travel more by sea on the approach to Jerusalem, one can go from Cyprus to the port of Jaffa by sea, as that’s the nearest harbour to Jerusalem and from there it’s only a day and a half’s travel to...
The Way From Galilee to Jerusalem Via Damascus
Authors: Mandeville John
Published: December 2024

So, since I’ve told you of many kinds of people living in the aforementioned
countries, now I’ll return to my route. Whoever wants to return from the region of
Galilee that I described shall go to the gracious city of Damascus,* that...
The Saracens’ Faith
Authors: Mandeville John
Published: December 2024

Because I have mentioned the Saracens and their lands, if you like I will now
tell you about parts of their law and their faith, according to what their book, called
al-Koran, says. Some people call that book Massap, some...
Varieties of Peoples and Countries
Authors: Mandeville John
Published: December 2024

Since I have given a description of the Holy Land and the countries thereabouts and the many routes by which to get there, and to Mount Sinai, to Babylon, and other places, now I’ll narrate and describe to you islands and various people and...
The Land of India
Authors: Mandeville John
Published: December 2024

I’ve described Ethiopia to you, from which one travels to India through many different countries. One calls it Greater India, and it is divided into three parts: that is, Greater India, an exceedingly hot region; Lesser India, a temperate region; and a third, to...
The Kingdom of Manzi
Authors: Mandeville John
Published: December 2024

One who travels from this land eastwards by the Indian Ocean must voyage for
many days until they arrive at the kingdom of Manzi;* this is the best region in India, the most pleasing and most bountiful in all things within man’s...
The Lands of the Great Khan of Cathay
Authors: Mandeville John
Published: December 2024

From the city of Chibence one crosses a large river, flowing with fresh water,
which is nearly four miles across, and that leads to the lands of the Great Khan. The
river goes through Pygmieland,* where the men are small of stature,...
Why He is Called the Great Khan
Authors: Mandeville John
Published: December 2024

As to why he is called the Great Khan, some say as follows. You know very well how the entire world was destroyed by Noah’s flood, except Noah and his wife and their children, and that Noah had three sons, Shem, Ham, and Japheth....
The Land of Persia
Authors: Mandeville John
Published: December 2024

So I have described for you the lands and kingdoms stretching from the land of Cathay to the land of Prussia and Russia, where Christian people live. Now I’ll describe other lands stretching from Cathay to the Greek Sea, where Christians live. I shall...
The Land of Prester John
Authors: Mandeville John
Published: December 2024

There are many kingdoms within the land of Prester John, from Bactria to which it is many days’ travel. This Prester John is the Emperor of India, and people call his land the isle of Pentoxoire. The Emperor Prester John possesses huge estates and...
Why He is Called Prester John
Authors: Mandeville John
Published: December 2024

I’m sure you’ve heard why this Emperor is called Prester John, but for those who don’t know I shall tell you why. There was once an Indian Emperor who was a noble and valiant prince, and he had as many Christian knights in his...
The Masnavi, Book Three
Authors: Rumi Jalal al-Din
Published: December 2024

Rumi, known in Iran and Central Asia as Mowlana Jalaloddin Balkhi, was born in 1207 in the
province of Balkh, now the border region between Afghanistan and Tajikistan. His family emigrated when
he was still a child, shortly before Genghis Khan and his Mongol army arrived in Balkh. They settled
permanently in Konya, central Anatolia, which was formerly part of the Eastern Roman Empire (Rum). Rumi
was probably introduced to Sufism originally through his father, Baha Valad, a popular preacher who also
taught Sufi piety to a group of disciples. However, the turning-point in Rumi’s life came in 1244, when
he met in Konya a mysterious wandering Sufi called Shamsoddin of Tabriz. Shams, as he is most often
referred to by Rumi, taught him the profoundest levels of Sufism, transforming him from a pious
religious scholar to an ecstatic mystic. Rumi expressed his new vision of reality in volumes of mystical
poetry. His enormous collection of lyrical poetry is considered one of the best that has ever been
produced, while his poem in rhyming couplets, the Masnavi, is so revered as the most
consummate expression of Sufi mysticism that it is commonly referred to as ‘the Qur’an in Persian’.

When Rumi died, on 17 December 1273, shortly after having ­completed his work on the
Masnavi, his passing was deeply mourned by the citizens of Konya, including the
Christian and Jewish communities. His disciples formed the Mevlevi Sufi order, which was named after
Rumi, whom they referred to as ‘Our Lord’ (Turkish ‘Mevlana’, Persian ‘Mowlana’). They are better known
in Europe and North America as the Whirling Dervishes, because of the distinctive dance that they now
perform as one of their central rituals. Rumi’s death is commemorated annually in Konya, attracting
pilgrims from all corners of the globe and every religion. The popularity of his poetry has risen so
much in recent decades that the Christian Science Monitor identified Rumi as the most
published poet in America in 1997.
The Masnavi
Authors: AL-DIN RUMI JALAL , MOJADDEDI JAWID
Published: December 2024

Prose Introduction

Pieces of wisdom are the armies of God by which He strengthens the spirits of seekers, and keeps their knowledge away from the tarnish of ignorance, their justice from the tarnish of tyranny, their generosity from the tarnish of self-display, and their...
Skirnir’s Journey
Authors: Larrington Carolyne
Published: December 2024

Freyr falls in love with a giant’s daughter whom he sees from Odin’s high-seat, Hlidskialf. According to Snorri (Edda, pp. 31–2) his love-sickness is a punishment for usurping Odin’s place, though the poem does not suggest this. Freyr’s concerned parents, Niord and Skadi,...
Harbard’s Song
Authors: Larrington Carolyne
Published: December 2024

Odin, in disguise, and Thor meet at a fjord crossing. Odin refuses to ferry Thor over the water and the two engage in a ritual exchange of insults. Harbard’s Song (Harbardzljod) is both typical and atypical of this kind of exchange...
Hymir’s Poem
Authors: Larrington Carolyne
Published: December 2024

Hymir’s Poem (Hymiskvida) is badly preserved in the manuscript, but we can fill in the gaps from Snorri. The gods decide to have a feast and compel the giant Ægir to prepare it; this may reflect Scandinavian royal practices in which the...
Loki’s Quarrel
Authors: Larrington Carolyne
Published: December 2024

Excluded from the feast at Ægir’s hall, where all the other gods except Thor are celebrating, Loki forces his way in, compels Odin to assign him a seat, and insults each of the gods and goddesses in turn—hence the title Loki’s Quarrel (...
All-Wise’s Sayings
Authors: Larrington Carolyne
Published: December 2024

Thor intercepts a dwarf who apparently, and unbeknown to Thor, is intending to marry the latter’s daughter. Thor proposes a wisdom contest in which he tests the dwarf’s knowledge of the terminology used by the different races of being for natural phenomena. The dwarf knows...
The First Poem of Helgi Hundingsbani
Authors: Larrington Carolyne
Published: December 2024

The two poems about Helgi Hundingsbani—the slayer of Hunding—and his namesake Helgi Hiorvardsson mark the beginning of the heroic poems in the Codex Regius manuscript. The relationship between the two Helgi Hundingsbani poems is unclear; it is quite likely that they represent much the same...
The Poem of Helgi Hiorvardsson
Authors: Larrington Carolyne
Published: December 2024

Helgi Hiorvardsson is a kind of doublet of Helgi Hundingsbani whose two poems surround his in the manuscript. The Poem of Helgi Hiorvardsson (Helgakvida Hiorvardssonar) follows the basic plot of the other Helgi poems, with an added prelude telling of the...
Oil and Related Chemicals
Authors: Weis Judith S.
Published: December 2024

Oil, comprised of a variety of hydrocarbons, can enter
the ocean in spectacular oil spills. The Exxon Valdez spill in Alaska was
subject to much study and attempts at remediation. The clean-up was slow and the oil polluted a
very long coastline in Prince William Sound. More recently, the Deepwater
Horizon—a deepwater blowout—caused an enormous amount of oil to spill into the Gulf
of Mexico. Dispersants were applied that caused the oil to sink to the bottom. Oil does great
damage at the surface to marine birds and mammals but, on the bottom, it can remain for a much
longer time. Oil in salt marshes sinks below the surface and can still affect burrowing animals
decades after the spill. Overall, there are fewer oil spills now than in the past.
Microplastics
Authors: Weis Judith S.
Published: December 2024

Plastics less than five millimeters in size are very
diverse and include many different polymers, chemical ingredients, shapes, sizes, densities, and
colors, and so they are a suite of contaminants with different sources, fates in the
environment, and effects. Some are made tiny (e.g., microbeads in consumer products, or
“nurdles,” which are premanufacture pellets), while most are fragments of larger items (e.g.,
clothing, tires, bottles, cups, etc.). They are found everywhere they are looked for, including
remote mountains and deep-sea trenches. They are ingested by many marine animals with varying
effects; many are later egested, but some penetrate into various tissues of the body. Because
they cannot be cleaned up, ways must be found to stop their flow into the waters.
Emerging Concerns
Authors: Weis Judith S.
Published: December 2024

This chapter discusses pollutants that have not yet been
regulated, even though much has been known about some of them for decades. These pollutants
include flame retardants—polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)—which are related to chlorinated
hydrocarbons, with bromine instead of chlorine. Likewise, the per- and polyfluoroalkyl
substances (PFAS) chemicals, about which there is alarm, are also related because they have
fluorine. These chemicals can cause serious effects, like cancer and endocrine disruption.
Pharmaceuticals have effects at low concentrations and affect aquatic species as well as humans.
Other types of pollutants are not chemicals, but nevertheless cause damage, including excessive
noise and light, both of which can cause serious harm to marine organisms.
Climate Change and Ocean Acidification
Authors: Weis Judith S.
Published: December 2024

Carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse
gases cause the atmosphere to get warmer. The ocean absorbs most of the heat and much of the
CO2. This raises the temperature of the water, which can cause glaciers and ice
sheets to melt, sea level to rise, coral reefs to bleach, fish to migrate to colder waters, and
sea turtle sex ratio become skewed toward females. The CO2 added to the water causes
its pH to get lower, or more acidic, which has its own negative effects on marine biota,
especially shell formation in mollusks. These changes can have drastic economic effects as well
as environmental ones. Reductions in fossil fuel use are essential to combat this global
problem.
Biological Pollution
Authors: Weis Judith S.
Published: December 2024

Disease-causing microbes in the water, generally from
sewage, can cause illness in swimmers and may produce aerosols that can make people sick. When
species are transported to areas where they are not native, they can be very successful,
outcompete the native species, and take over communities. These are called “invasive species.”
Many examples from different phyla of animals—fish, crabs, comb jellies) as well as seaweeds and
marsh plants—are discussed in this chapter. A common route of transfer is in the ballast water
of ships, but releases of aquarium animals and purposeful movement of a species can also lead to
invasions. Ways of treating ballast water can reduce the movement of species worldwide. Once a
species has become established it is almost impossible to eliminate it; early detection can lead
to successful elimination.
Puerto Rico under US Rule, 1898–1952
Authors: Duany Jorge
Published: December 2024

This chapter details the US colonial regime in Puerto
Rico (1898–1952). US troops invaded Puerto Rico as part of the war against Spain in July 1898,
which then became a secondary military asset to US objectives during the War of 1898. The
Foraker Act, also known as the First Organic Act, established the legal framework for a civil
government in Puerto Rico under US tutelage. During the Insular Cases judicial decisions, the US
Supreme Court deemed Puerto Rico to be subject to US sovereignty without a clear or permanent
relation to the rest of the United States. The chapter also discusses the significance of
Jones-Shafroth Act before examining Puerto Rico’s policy toward migration.
The Puerto Rican Diaspora to the United States
Authors: Duany Jorge
Published: December 2024

This chapter explores the history, demography, and
economy in connection with the Puerto Rican diaspora in the United States. It elaborates on the
shifting settlement patterns of Puerto Rican migrants for the last sixty years. After World War
II, the government’s industrialization program, Operation Bootstrap, displaced thousands of
rural workers to urban areas. The chapter then discusses the notion of Nuyoricans, return
migrants and their children, who often face the stereotype that they are less Puerto Rican than
those who remained on the Island. It also considers why Puerto Ricans remain one of the most
disadvantaged ethnic minorities in the United States.
The Puerto Rican Diaspora to the United States
Authors: Duany Jorge
Published: December 2024

This chapter tackles the Puerto Rican diaspora in the
United States with a focus on culture and politics. It starts with the National Puerto Rican Day
Parade (Desfile Puertorriqueño) in New York City as the most visible
demonstration of Puerto Rican identity in the United States. However, the US media have
traditionally represented Puerto Ricans as a social problem due to their dark skin color,
foreign language, and culture. The chapter also considers the role of religion, the Spanish and
English languages, and music within the Puerto Rican diaspora. On the other hand, the Puerto
Rican diaspora has been incorporated into US politics through numerous voluntary associations
throughout the country since the late nineteenth century.
Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist vs. placebo in a patient with end-stage kidney disease under renal replacement therapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Dawadi Sagun , Shrestha Dhan Bahadur , Oli Prakash Raj , Shtembari Jurgen , Kansakar Sajog , Paudel Suman , Pant Kailash
Published: December 2024

The number of patients living with chronic kidney diseases is increasing, and so are the patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing renal replacement therapy (RRT). While there is a common understanding that these patients face higher risks of fatal or non-fatal cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events, and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRA) have been an essential pillar in managing heart failure, their use in this subset of patients have been overshadowed due to concerns of hyperkalemia. ESRD patients under RRT have often been excluded from landmark trials.

This meta-analysis was conducted based on the PRISMA guideline after registering the protocol with PROSPERO (CRD42024499835). A database search included articles until April 2024 and relevant data extracted from the included studies. Analysis was done using RevMan web (version 5.4). A total of 15 studies among 1086 studies were included in the final analysis. Our meta-analysis revealed MRA significantly reduced all-cause mortality (OR 0.35, CI 0.23- 0.54) and cardio-vascular mortality (OR 0.37, 0.21-0.65). With some possible increase in the risk of hyperkalemia (OR 1.56, CI 1.01-2.42), with no discernible difference in the occurrence of stroke (OR 0.57, CI 0.25-1.28) or MI (OR 0.63, CI 0.08-4.72).

The utilization of MRA in patients with ESRD under dialysis is linked to improved mortality outcomes, albeit with slight concerns for hyperkalemia. While current evidence leans towards MRA usage, prospective randomized controlled trials involving a broader patient cohort are essential to establish robust guidance for MRA application in this subset of patients.
Efficacy and safety of subcutaneous golimumab in patients with rheumatoid arthritis in a sample of Syrian patients: a cohort study
Authors: Haidar Ghina , Kudsi Maysoun , Khalayli Naram
Published: December 2024

Background:

Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic inflammatory disease, affecting the joints and other organs. Several treatments have been approved for use in its management including biologics. Golimumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody that blocks the binding of TNF-alpha to its receptor, has been considered a treatment since 2013. The efficacy and safety of golimumab was reported in some studies designed as open-label trials and a few randomized controlled trials in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Objective:

To assess the efficacy and safety of subcutaneous golimumab in a sample of Syrian patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis that was un-responded to different disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs.

Methods:

100 patients with rheumatoid arthritis from the rheumatology departments were enrolled in our study. The patients were divided into two groups: 50 patients who were given subcutaneous golimumab, as a patient group, and 50 patients who were receiving conventional antirheumatic modifiers, as a control group. Side effects of golimumab and the other treatments were registered.

Results:

We found that golimumab is effective in treating patients with rheumatoid arthritis, as it achieved a significant response rate during the follow-up period, as assessed by the DAS28-ESR score. The mean DAS28-ESR at the start was 5.33 ± 0.85), and with follow-up of the patients during the study period, it decreased significantly to 3.81 after 3 months and then to 2.03 after a year. Patients achieved a significant response of 94% within the first 3 months of golimumab administration according to EULAR response criteria. The rate of remission of the disease after 1 year was 90%. There was only one side effect, which was an upper respiratory infection, in two patients (4%) after 3 months, and in only one patient (2%) after 6 months.

Conclusion:

Golimumab is effective and safe in patients with Rheumatoid arthritis
A case of SAPHO syndrome complicated by uveitis with good response to etanercept, a TNF inhibitor
Authors: Kudsi Maysoun , Shahada Zienab , Haidar Ghina , Drie Tasneem , Tarcha Raghad , Bitar Anas
Published: December 2024

Introduction and importance:

SAPHO syndrome is a rare syndrome that includes several manifestations, including synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis, and osteitis, which makes diagnosing and treating this condition a great challenge for doctors. Uveitis is a rare presentation, but SAPHO syndrome is considered a part of the spondyloarthropathies, so it seems logical to find a correlation between SAPHO and uveitis. Here, we have reported a case of SAPHO complicated with uveitis.

Case presentation:

Our patient, a 26-year-old male, was diagnosed with SAPHO syndrome due to joint and skin symptoms. His response was limited to disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, but his response was excellent to the tumor necrosis factor inhibitor (Etanercept). Even when he suffered from uveitis, treatment was effective with the drug etanercept.

Clinical discussion:

Its precise pathogenesis remains unclear; however, immune dysfunction, infection, and genetic susceptibility were considered to play a role.

Treatment aims to relieve the symptoms and protect from exacerbation of the disease. For refractory cases to conventional drugs, biotherapy is the next therapeutic option.

Conclusion:

In this case, the patient had osteoarticular and cutaneous symptoms and had uveitis, which is characterized by a good response to treatment.
Guidance for creating morally healthy organizations that remediate the experience of moral injury in healthcare: Findings from an international e-Delphi study
Authors: Morris Deborah , Dean Wendy , Webb Elanor , Wainwright Jack , Hampden Roisin , Talbot Simon
Published: December 2024

Objective

To date, research and policy directives have focused on identifying individual risk factors for moral injury, with less attention to solutions for establishing non-morally injurious cultures and practices.

Methods

Experts with academic or clinical knowledge of moral injury were recruited to a three-round e-Delphi survey exploring descriptors and characteristics of non-morally injurious organisations.

Results

Forty-nine, forty-one and thirty-nine experts responded at each round. Morally ‘healthy’, ‘congruent’ and ‘centred’ were endorsed as descriptors for non-morally injurious organisations. Consensus was also obtained on 111 characteristics and behaviours relating to organisational identity (e.g., just culture), behaviours and practices (e.g., transparency in decision-making), and self-awareness (e.g., monitoring of moral injury in workforce).

Conclusions

The findings implicate the need for a strengths-oriented, solution-focused approach to addressing moral injury. The recommendations proposed warrant evaluation and operationalisation within formal guidance.
Biochemical Pharmacology of Diabetes and its Complications: Frontiers in Therapy
Authors: Al-Madhagi Haitham
Published: December 2024

Diabetes, an intricate chronic metabolic disorder, remains constituting a substantial global health concern, claiming millions of lives each year with no definitive cure currently available to date. Left untreated, diabetes consequently leads to the development of both microvascular as well as macrovascular complications, which are major contributors to the mortality rates among diabetic individuals. The pathogenesis of these complications involves a range of biochemical pathways, including aberrant metabolic pathways, oxidative stress, advanced glycation end-products, the activation of protein kinase C and the implication of various pro-inflammatory cytokines and adipokines. Strategies such as the design of specific inhibitors and antioxidant therapy have shown promise in managing these biochemical processes. Additionally, pharmacological approaches have been explored to address the underlying mechanisms of diabetic complications, particularly the polyol pathway. In parallel, nutritional management has emerged as a key component in restoring metabolic balance and improving outcomes for individuals with diabetes. Dietary and diet interventions play a pivotal role in regulating glycemic levels, ameliorating inflammation, and supporting overall metabolic health in diabetic patients. This comprehensive review aims to shed light on the intricate biochemical basis of diabetic complications and explores the latest advancements in pharmacological and nutritional interventions for the effective control of diabetes and its associated consequences. By integrating cutting-edge research findings and practical strategies, this review seeks to provide valuable insights into the multifaceted approach required to combat the challenges posed by diabetes and enhance the quality of care for affected individuals.
The Impact of Pancreatic Fat Infiltration on Immune Environment and Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: wei Hongyun , Ren He
Published: December 2024

Pancreatic fat infiltration (PFI) is increasingly recognized as a significant factor influencing the pathophysiology of pancreatic diseases, including pancreatic cancer. This review aims to elucidate the alterations in the immune environment associated with PFI and their subsequent impact on pancreatic cancer development, progression, and treatment outcomes. Current research indicates that PFI leads to a pro-inflammatory immune milieu, characterized by increased infiltration of immune cells such as macrophages and T-cells, which may promote tumorigenesis. Furthermore, the altered immune environment due to PFI has been shown to affect the efficacy of conventional therapies and the prognosis of pancreatic cancer patients. The review also explores the implications of PFI on the effectiveness of immunotherapy, highlighting the need for tailored therapeutic strategies. By synthesizing recent findings, this review underscores the importance of considering PFI in the clinical management of pancreatic cancer and calls for further research to develop targeted interventions that address the unique challenges posed by PFI.
Beyond Do No Harm: Introduction to Green Radiology
Authors: Hecht Elizabeth M. , Margolis Daniel J. A. , Wehrli Natasha E. , Cascella Brooke , Pogorzelski Justine , Trikantzopoulos Elefterios , Hentel Keith D.
Published: December 2024

In 2021, the Human Rights Council declared that having a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment is a human right. According to the WHO, 24% of deaths are attributable to environmental health risks and are largely preventable. Current predictions show that rising emissions will be linked to an enormous healthcare burden, especially for high-risk populations and historically disadvantaged communities. The US healthcare industry accounts for nearly 18% of its GDP and is a major consumer of resources. The largest healthcare-related source of greenhouse gas emissions is from the supply chain, including pharmaceuticals, other chemicals, food, and the transportation required to mobilize them accounting for 80% of emissions, with only 20% of emissions from purchased energy and the facilities directly. As a field, radiology has historically monitored its impact in terms of radiation exposure and thermal effects but has not focused on other pollutants, greenhouse gas emissions, or waste. Although tackling large issues such as climate change and pollution seems daunting, we can start by raising awareness through education, investigation, and advocacy. In this review, we discuss a systems-based approach to addressing climate change from the federal to the local level focusing on the potential role of the radiologist.
Subscapular Tunneling to Increase the Reach of Latissimus Dorsi Myocutaneous Flap
Authors: Mubang Ronnie , Wimbiscus Mae , Sullivan Lauren , Nixon Alexander , Golinko Micheal , Panambur Bhandari
Published: December 2024

The latissimus dorsi muscle or myocutaneous flap (LDMF) has long been a mainstay in the plastic surgeon's armamentarium, serving as a versatile and reliable tool for reconstructive procedures. Tunneling the LDMF through the subscapular route increases the reach to cover defects as far as nape of the neck. In this article, we report a case of LDMF routed through a subscapular route to cover impending hardware exposure at the nape region. This article provides a comprehensive review of the subscapular tunneled LDMF technique while discussing its indications, surgical anatomy, operative technique, complications, and outcomes.
Transgender Healthcare
Authors: Sparks Payton J. , Bozigar Caden , Shah Krish V. , Wan Rou , Uryga Abigail , Nguyen Antoinette T. , Li Rena A. , Galiano Robert D.
Published: December 2024

This historical narrative presents a comprehensive historical journey delving into the diverse facets of gender identity and expression across ancient cultures. It explores these civilizations' perspectives on gender diversity, highlighting instances that challenged conventional gender norms. Transitioning to the modern era, the narrative examines the dynamic landscape of LGBTQ+ and trans movements, spotlighting influential figures whose advocacy has significantly influenced societal perceptions and advanced the rights of gender diverse individuals. Their contributions continue to shape contemporary affirming care practices. Exploring the emergence of gender-affirming surgery, the narrative highlights pioneering surgeons and original techniques employed in these transformative procedures. It shows the courage and innovation of early surgeons who laid the groundwork for contemporary practices. At the core of this historical narrative lies the pivotal role of plastic surgeons in gender-affirming care. It emphasizes the significance of a collaborative multidisciplinary approach among medical professionals to ensure comprehensive and patient-centered care for transgender individuals seeking affirming interventions. However, intertwined with this narrative are legislative barriers that have hindered progress in gender-affirming care. The narrative navigates these obstacles, highlighting their complexities and emphasizing the urgent need for sustained medical advocacy and legislative reforms to foster an inclusive healthcare landscape. Ultimately, this narrative stands as a testament to the ongoing struggle and resilience within the realm of gender-affirming care, shedding light on its profound impact on individuals' lives, emphasizing the ongoing need for compassionate, comprehensive, and inclusive healthcare practices.
Body Mass Index and Complication Rates Among Patients Undergoing Gender-Affirming Surgeries
Authors: Garwood Sarah K. , Stiles Dana , Snyder-Warwick Alison K. , Walcott Katherine , Linsenmeyer Whitney R.
Published: December 2024

Purpose

To determine the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and complication rates among patients undergoing gender-affirming surgeries (GAS).

Methods

The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database was queried from 2015 to 2021. Patients who underwent a GAS were identified using International Classification of Diseases Ninth (ICD-9) and Tenth (ICD-10) codes. Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes were organized within 6 GAS subgroups: masculinizing top, masculinizing bottom, feminizing top, feminizing bottom, head and neck, and voice procedures. BMI was classified as underweight, healthy weight, overweight, or obese classes I–III using the Center for Disease Control and Prevention ranges. Demographic data included sex, age, race, and ethnicity. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the study sample, and hierarchical logistic regression was used to examine the association between GAS, BMI, and surgical complications.

Results

Among the 6771 cases, the majority had a BMI categorized as healthy weight (33.5%) or overweight (30.5%). Smaller proportions had obesity class I (18.6%), class II (8.4%), or class III (6.2%); 1.9% were underweight. BMI was not a significant predictor of complications among those undergoing masculinizing and feminizing top surgeries or head and neck surgeries. Among participants undergoing masculinizing bottom surgery, those with class 1 obesity were 70% less likely to have surgical complications compared to those with a healthy weight. For those undergoing feminizing bottom surgeries, participants with class 1 obesity were 3.3 times more likely to have surgical complications compared to those with a healthy weight.

Conclusion

BMI is commonly used to determine GAS eligibility, yet its utility in predicting complications is uncertain. Healthcare providers should consider the patient's overall health status when assessing GAS eligibility rather than relying on BMI alone.
Determination of the multipole moments of the
JP=3−
mesons via QCD sum rules
Authors: Aliev T. M. , Bilmis S. , Savci M.
Published: December 2024

The multipole moments of the JP=3− tensor mesons are obtained using light-cone sum rules. Our results are compared with the predictions of the light-cone helicity formalism within the framework of SU(3) flavor symmetry. We observe a good agreement between the two approaches. The obtained multipole moments of tensor mesons provide deeper insights into their properties and better understanding of the strong and electromagnetic decay channels of these mesons.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Analysis of creativity at the workplace through employee empowerment
Authors: Barua Bikash , Islam MM Obaidul , Kibria Habiba , Barua Rupam
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Creativity is widely recognized as a key driver of innovation and competitive advantage in today’s dynamic business landscape. As organizations strive to foster a culture of innovation, it becomes imperative to understand the factors that enhance creativity among employees. This study aims to explore the role of employee empowerment in promoting creativity at the workplace.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used empowerment measures to determine the impact of employee empowerment on employee creativity. Creativity was also measured based on constructs reviewed in literature. An online questionnaire survey was conducted among 170 faculty members of different private universities of Bangladesh. The sample was chosen based on a convenience method. The responses were analyzed using partial least square (PLS) approach with the help of software SmartPLS.

Findings

This study comes to the conclusion that employee empowerment plays a crucial role as a forerunner to creativity at work. The configuration process is mostly accelerated and facilitated by university officials.

Research limitations/implications

Because they are statistically significant in establishing a climate for employee creativity at work, it is necessary to empirically determine the percentage impact level of the constructs of employee engagement known as “Leadership and Organizational Culture” and “Internal and External Enhancement Factors.” In addition, employee engagement is not the sole element influencing creativity at work. This suggests the need to quantify the relative influence that employee engagement has on other workplace drivers of creativity and innovation.

Practical implications

This study will help university authorities to instill management development programs to enhance their understanding about employees’ different psychological needs and expectations. Moreover, university management can find ways to implement various teacher development programs to promote growth mindset among the teachers. Organizations can leverage these insights to design and implement strategies that empower employees, leading to a more innovative and adaptable workforce.

Social implications

The implications of this research extend beyond individual organizations to society as a whole, as fostering creativity has broader implications for economic growth, productivity and overall well-being. By nurturing employee empowerment, organizations can not only enhance their competitive advantage but also contribute to societal progress through the generation of novel ideas, products and services.

Originality/value

This study was conducted on the private university faculty members to understand how the empowerment works in imparting creativity. The context of this study was educational institutions in contrast to the commercial organizations.
Unraveling the dynamics of lean manufacturing enablers on operational performance
Authors: Zaman Syed Imran , Khan Sharfuddin Ahmed , Gunasekaran Angappa , Zaman Syed Ahsan
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Lean manufacturing (LM) is essential for businesses to remain competitive in today’s global economy and to meet the needs of consumers from three separate perspectives: price, dependability and production schedules. A fundamental goal of this research is to how lean management in manufacturing organization may improve product value for the customer, address customer concerns, minimize costs and boost the firm’s profitability.

Design/methodology/approach

The extensive literature analysis identified a number of LM enablers and manufacturing industry factors that might favorably affect the organizations operational performance. Initially, 16 enablers of LM and 16 factors operational performance were identified, which were later reduced to 8 factors each. After that, Grey-DEMATEL technique was applied to investigate the relationships between the factors by categorizing elements into two groups (cause and effect) and ranking them within each category.

Findings

The results show that F4 (Work Force Development) and F7 (Six Sigma) were the key enablers of LM. Similarly, F12 (Maintain Better inventory control/optimize inventory level) and F14 (Reduce conversion cost) are the key effect factors of operational performance. It eliminates inefficiencies in the production process and internal storage requirements while retaining a high level of dependability and flexibility in response to customer demands.

Originality/value

LM has unquestionably been a popular method for improving the production efficiency of industrial sectors for the last two decades. Despite the fact that LM has helped several firms reduce waste and thereby improve a range of efficiency metrics, many businesses are still struggling to effectively transform into lean firms. While previous studies have explored LM’s significance and its influence on different aspects of organizational metrics in various industries, this research pioneers in probing into the nuanced relationship between LM enablers and OP in a critical and procedure-intensive industry.
Research on collision detection method and response strategy for Delta robots
Authors: Mei Jiangping , Ning Puxuan , Duan Yunrui , Wei Tianlin , Su Xiaochen
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The safety performance of Delta robots is particularly important. Hence, this paper aims to improve the existing method to achieve efficient and safe robots.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper designs a generalized momentum extended state observer method to estimate external torque. Meanwhile, a dynamic threshold method for current torque is designed. In addition, a segmented safety response strategy based on task space position feedforward is introduced.

Findings

Simulation and experimental results verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.

Originality/value

This paper designs a dynamic threshold collision detection method that does not require external sensors. Compared with static threshold collision detection methods, this method can avoid false alarm problems. This paper also proposes a segmented safety response strategy, which can improve the efficiency and safety of Delta robots.
The effect of family business image on brand co-creation: a moderated serial mediation model
Authors: Hoang Le Nguyen , Vinh Nguyen Thi Hong
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate whether stimulating a family business image can serve as a signal to enhance customer brand co-creation.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors tested the proposed moderated serial mediation model utilising a sample of 521 experienced online customers. Using a scenario-based approach with an experimental design, the authors investigated how the stimulation of a family business image influences customers’ co-creation activities on social media.

Findings

Stimulating a family business image plays a significant role in fostering interactions among customers who respond to this signal. Furthermore, when there is an alignment between customers’ self-concept and their perception of brand authenticity, a stronger brand contribution is established. Nonetheless, this alignment does not translate into heightened involvement in brand co-creation activities, as active participation in co-creation necessitates empowerment derived from the co-creation process.

Originality/value

By taking a co-creation viewpoint, this study empirically demonstrates how stimulating a family business image can impact different levels of brand-related involvement. It also highlights the moderating influence of self-congruence in transmitting the signal, shedding light on individual differences in brand engagement. From a practical standpoint, the distinctive nature of a family business image should be recognised as an asset that enables managers to enhance customer responses and strengthen their market position.
Charting new waters: cultivating creativity through international student mobility program
Authors: Haryokusumo Diaz , Almahendra Rangga , Nastiti Tur , Hidayat Agi Syarif
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to employ the componential theory and interactionist perspective of creativity to explore how cognitive and affective transformations foster creativity. It investigates the influence of dispositional factors (cultural intelligence, ambiguity tolerance, social awareness) and contextual factors (international learning experiences) on students’ self-efficacy and subsequently on creative process engagement (CPE). Additionally, it examines the moderating role of cultural distance in the relationship between self-efficacy and CPE.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was conducted with 1,829 Indonesian students involved in international student mobility (ISM). The hypotheses were tested using partial least square structural equation modeling.

Findings

The study found that dispositional factors (cultural intelligence, ambiguity tolerance, social awareness) and the contextual factor of international learning experience significantly enhance self-efficacy. In turn, self-efficacy significantly promotes creative process engagement. Specifically, self-efficacy fully mediates the relationships between cultural intelligence and CPE, as well as international learning experience and CPE. It also partially mediates the relationships between ambiguity tolerance and CPE, and social awareness and CPE, with both being complementary mediations. However, cultural distance did not moderate the relationship between self-efficacy and CPE.

Originality/value

This study addresses the research gap by focusing on creativity as a process in the context of ISM. By integrating a comprehensive perspective of creativity, this study provides new insights into how dispositional and contextual factors interact to shape self-efficacy and creative engagement, especially in the context of emerging economies such as Indonesia. The findings underscore the importance of self-efficacy in fostering creative engagement among university students who experience ISM and offer valuable implications for educational practices and policies aimed at enhancing creativity in higher education.
Is social media or word-of-mouth more effective in halal-based mobile application usage?
Authors: Haji Sumardi Wardah Hakimah , Musa Siti Fatimahwati Pehin Dato , Pg Hj Idris Pg Siti Rozaidah
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the different types of communication mechanisms in motivating the use of halal-based apps among Brunei Muslim students in higher education institutions abroad.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a convenience sampling procedure, 100 online structured questionnaires were accumulated from various higher education institutions abroad with a 60% response rate from Brunei Muslim students. Descriptive analysis, Binomial Logit and the Binomial Probit model were used to test different types of communication mechanisms in motivating the use of halal-based apps among Brunei Muslim students studying abroad. Demographic profiling such as gender, age, university programs and length of the program was also considered in the study.

Findings

Based on the statistical analyses, the word-of-mouth (WOM) mechanism is significant and more effective in influencing halal-based app usage among Muslim students abroad. Moreover, halal-based app usage with the combination of WOM mechanism and social media platform play a vital role in spreading halal awareness.

Research limitations/implications

The sample was taken from random higher educational institutions abroad and respondents were selected using convenience sampling. Therefore, it may not be fully representative of the population of Brunei Muslim university students studying abroad. Second, there may also be missing variables that have not been considered in the study.

Practical implications

This study generates important insights from Muslim consumers on halal-based app usage. Stakeholders can integrate halal-based apps with digital word-of-mouth and social media interfaces to promote halal awareness and halal-based app usage effectively.

Originality/value

This research adds to the current limited knowledge of halal-based app usage among Brunei Muslim university students abroad.
Absorptive capacity, organizational creativity, organizational agility, organizational resilience and competitive advantage in disruptive environments
Authors: Musa Soebowo , Enggarsyah Doddy T.P.
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This paper examines the relationships of absorptive capacity, organizational creativity and agility to organizational resilience and competitive advantage in disruptive environments and proposes modeling these relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 216 respondents out of the 300 targeted respondents (a response rate of 72%) across different industries. The questionnaire data were analyzed using structural equation modeling.

Findings

The paper provides empirical insights into how resilience is created through the interactions between absorptive capacity, organizational creativity and agility. It suggests that organizational creativity acts more as a “determinant force” in enhancing resilience in the disruptive environment, whereas organizational agility is more associated with competitive advantage. This study also shows the bi-directional relationships between organizational resilience and creativity. In a disruptive environment, an organization tends to seek new knowledge externally through its absorptive capacity to foster its creativity to build resiliency, whereas organizational resilience is also needed for the organization to promote its creativity.

Research limitations/implications

The research was conducted using cross-sectional data; thus, causality among the constructs could not be fully established.

Practical implications

The paper shows that an organization needs to build a culture of learning to enhance its absorptive capacity, creativity and resilience capabilities and sustain its competitive advantage.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills an identified need to study how absorptive capacity, organizational creativity, agility and resilience play strategic roles interactively and differently in developing a firm’s competitive advantage in a disruptive environment.