bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Minimally Invasive 980 nm Laser-Assisted Lipolysis and Skin Tightening on Lower Eyelids of Asian Patients
Authors: Zhang Jun , Wang Guo-Bao , Zhao Haiguang , Zhou Feng , Khan Aawrish , Gao Qiuni , Wang Tao , Qi Lili , AUNG ZIN MAR , Xu Haisong , Cui Haiyan
Published: January 2024

Objective

The present study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of minimally invasive 980 nm laser-assisted lipolysis and skin tightening in lower eyelid blepharoplasty of Asian patients.

Methods

Patients with mild and moderate degree of eyebags underwent 980 nm laser-assisted lipolysis via lower eyelid stab incision between December 2017 and December 2019. Evaluation criteria was reviewed by photographs taken preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively in accordance with guidelines of Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale, the patient's perspective from the questionnaire with the perception of reduction in eyebags size, the average perception of improvement in skin tightening, and the patient overall satisfaction, all with a score of 1 to 5 (5 being the most noticeable and very satisfied) and complications such as dyspigmentation, hematoma, prolonged edema, skin bump and thermal burn were documented as well.

Results

A total of 178 cases with 137 women and 41 men (age range from 23 to 50 years) were included. Total energy of 1200 J to 2000 J was delivered to both eyebags at 6 to 10 W. They were followed up for at least 6 months. A total of 166 patients (93.26%) revealed an improvement in Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale, with the 12 patients (6.74%) complaint no change 6 month postoperatively. Perception of improvement in eye bag protrusion scored 4.39 ± 0.59, improvement in skin tightening scored 4.42 ± 0.58 and the overall patient's satisfaction scored 4.59 ± 0.53. The patients' average recovered swelling from 4.35 ± 2.3 days. There were 5 patients (2.8%) with dyspigmentation, 3 patients (1.69%) with prolonged edema and 2 patients (1.12%) with skin bump and none of the patients had thermal burn. All of them resolve after 6 months of follow up.

Conclusion

Patients with mild to moderate degree of eyebags who resist surgery are good candidates for laser-assisted lower eyelid blepharoplasty.
Comparison of Postoperative Complications in Patients Undergoing Limb Salvage Reconstructive Surgery Based on Estimated Prevalence of Preexisting Peripheral Arterial Disease
Authors: Pekcan Asli , Roohani Idean , Stoneburner Jacqueline , Boudiab Elizabeth , O'Brien Devon , Cordero Justin J. , Carey Joseph N.
Published: January 2024

Background

Limb salvage after lower extremity (LE) trauma requires optimal blood flow for successful microsurgical reconstruction. Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) decreases LE perfusion, affecting wound healing. Patients who present with LE trauma may have undiagnosed PAD, particularly those with atherosclerotic risk factors. This study assesses outcomes after LE salvage in patients at risk for PAD.

Methods

This retrospective review evaluated patients who underwent LE reconstruction at a level 1 trauma center between 2007 and 2022. Patients with a nontraumatic mechanism of injury, missing postoperative records, and unspecified race were excluded. Demographics, flap characteristics, and postoperative complications were abstracted. The prevalence of LE PAD was calculated using a validated risk assessment tool.

Results

At our institution, 285 LE flaps performed on 254 patients were included in the study. Patients were categorized by prevalence of PAD, including 12 (4.7%) with high risk, 45 (17.7%) with intermediate risk, and 197 (77.6%) patients with low risk. The high-risk cohort had higher rates of partial flap necrosis (P = 0.037), flap loss (P = 0.006), and amputation (P < 0.001) compared with the low-risk group. Fewer high-risk patients achieved full ambulation compared with the low-risk (P = 0.005) cohort. Overall flap survival and limb salvage rates were 94.5% and 96.5%, respectively. Among the intermediate- and high-risk cohorts, only 50.9% of patients received a preoperative vascular assessment, and 3.8% received a vascular surgery consultation.

Conclusions

Peripheral arterial disease represents a reconstructive challenge to microvascular surgeons. Patients with high-risk for PAD had higher rates of partial flap necrosis, flap loss, and amputation. In the setting of trauma, emphasis should be placed on preoperative vascular assessment for patients at risk of having undiagnosed PAD. Prospective studies collecting ankle-brachial index assessments and/or angiography will help validate this study's findings.
Joint quantile disease mapping with application to malaria and G6PD deficiency
Authors: Alahmadi Hanan , van Niekerk Janet , Padellini Tullia , Rue Håvard
Published: January 2024

Statistical analysis based on quantile methods is more comprehensive, flexible and less sensitive to outliers when compared to mean methods. Joint disease mapping is useful for inferring correlation between different diseases. Most studies investigate this link through multiple correlated mean regressions. We propose a joint quantile regression framework for multiple diseases where different quantile levels can be considered. We are motivated by the theorized link between the presence of malaria and the gene deficiency G6PD, where medical scientists have anecdotally discovered a possible link between high levels of G6PD and lower than expected levels of malaria initially pointing towards the occurrence of G6PD inhibiting the occurrence of malaria. Thus, the need for flexible joint quantile regression in a disease mapping framework arises. Our model can be used for linear and nonlinear effects of covariates by stochastic splines since we define it as a latent Gaussian model. We perform Bayesian inference using the R integrated nested Laplace approximation, suitable even for large datasets. Finally, we illustrate the model’s applicability by considering data from 21 countries, although better data are needed to prove a significant relationship. The proposed methodology offers a framework for future studies of interrelated disease phenomena.
Humans can identify reward-related call types of chickens
Authors: McGrath Nicky , Phillips Clive J. C. , Burman Oliver H. P. , Dwyer Cathy M. , Henning Joerg
Published: January 2024

Humans can decode emotional information from vocalizations of animals. However, little is known if these interpretations relate to the ability of humans to identify if calls were made in a rewarded or non-rewarded context. We tested whether humans could identify calls made by chickens (
Gallus gallus
) in these contexts, and whether demographic factors or experience with chickens affected their correct identification context and the ratings of perceived positive and negative emotions (valence) and excitement (arousal) of chickens. Participants (
n
= 194) listened to eight calls when chickens were anticipating a reward, and eight calls in non-rewarded contexts, and indicated whether the vocalizing chicken was experiencing pleasure/displeasure, and high/low excitement, using visual analogue scales. Sixty-nine per cent of participants correctly assigned reward and non-reward calls to their respective categories. Participants performed better at categorizing reward-related calls, with 71% of reward calls classified correctly, compared with 67% of non-reward calls. Older people were less accurate in context identification. Older people's ratings of the excitement or arousal levels of reward-related calls were higher than younger people's ratings, while older people rated non-reward calls as representing higher positive emotions or pleasure (higher valence) compared to ratings made by younger people. Our study strengthens evidence that humans perceive emotions across different taxa, and that specific acoustic cues may embody a homologous signalling system among vertebrates. Importantly, humans could identify reward-related calls, and this ability could enhance the management of farmed chickens to improve their welfare.
Nasopharyngeal carriage rate, serotype distribution, and antimicrobial profiles of Streptococcus pneumoniae among patients with acute respiratory tract infection in Manado, North Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: Purwanto Diana Shintawati , Khoeri Miftahuddin Majid , Tafroji Wisnu , Margaretha Kaligis Stefana Helena , Wilar Rocky , Kepel Billy Johnson , Raranta Hessyani Patricia Theodora , Gaghiwu Lidia , Hammerschmidt Sven , Ervina Waode Fifin , Safari Dodi
Published: January 2024

We studied the carriage rate, distribution of serotype, and antimicrobial profile of Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumoniae) among patients with acute respiratory tract infections (ARTI) in two primary health centers and a tertiary referral hospital from 2019 to 2020 in Manado, North Sulawesi, Indonesia before 13-valent PCV (PCV13) introduction. One hundred and six of nasopharyngeal swab samples were collected from children and adult patients. Serotyping of S. pneumoniae strain was performed with sequential multiplex PCR and Quellung reaction. Antimicrobial profile was performed by the disk diffusion method. We identified thirty-one patients carried S. pneumoniae strains (29%). The S. pneumoniae carriage rate was found to be higher among children aged 2-5 years (13/32; 40.6%) than in children under 1 year (8/27; 29.6%), children and adolescents under 18 years of age (5/20; 25.0%) and adult patients (5/27; 18.5%). The distribution of serotypes varied, including 14, 18C, 19A, 23F, 19F and 35B (two strains each) and 1, 3, 6B, 6C, 31, 9V, 15C, 16F, 17F, 23A, 35F (one strain each) and non-typeable (9/31; 29%). We found S. pneumoniae isolates were susceptible to vancomycin (30/31; 97%), chloramphenicol (29/31; 94%), clindamycin (29/31; 94%), erythromycin (22/31; 71%), azithromycin (22/31; 71%), tetracycline (14/31; 45%), penicillin (11/31; 35%), and sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim (10/31; 32%). This study provides supporting baseline data on distribution of serotype and antimicrobial profile of S. pneumoniae among patients with ARTI before PCV13 introduction in Manado, North Sulawesi, Indonesia.
Periodic superradiance in an Er:YSO crystal
Authors: Hara Hideaki , Han Junseok , Imai Yasutaka , Sasao Noboru , Yoshimi Akihiro , Yoshimura Koji , Yoshimura Motohiko , Miyamoto Yuki
Published: January 2024

We observed periodic optical pulses from an Er:YSO crystal during irradiating with a continuous-wave excitation laser. We refer to this phenomenon as “periodic superradiance.” This periodicity can be understood qualitatively by a simple model, in which a cyclic process of a continuous supply of population inversion and a sudden burst of superradiance is repeated. The excitation power dependences of peak interval and the pulse area can be interpreted with our simple model. In addition, the linewidth of superradiance is much narrower than an inhomogeneous broadening in a crystal. This result suggests that only Er3+ ions in a specific environment are involved in superradiance.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Straintronics with single-layer
MoS2
: A quantum Monte Carlo study
Authors: Huang Y. , Manzoor M. , Brndiar J. , Milivojevic M. , Štich I.
Published: January 2024

Using state-of-the-art quantum Monte Carlo (QMC) methods, we study straintronic properties of a single MoS2 monolayer. 2D MoS2 is a quintessential straintronic material for which many experiments have been performed. First, we determine the equilibrium atomic structure which is not known experimentally and is strictly needed to correctly determine the straintronic properties. That enables us to precisely analyze the quasiparticle band gaps for any applied biaxial strain, which we describe by a bivariate paraboloid function of lattice constant and internal structural parameter. Using the fixed-node QMC calculations fitted by analytical formulas, we localize the following excited state crossings between the direct, K→K, and indirect Γ→X and K→K/2 excitations. Based on this highly accurate many-body treatment, we predict a gauge factor of 136 meV/% for the K→K transition and a fairly narrow window of ≈2.8% from compressive to mildly tensile strains, accounting for only

≈

0.3

 eV band gap change maintaining the direct character of the gap. Consequently, we suggest that, compared to other 2D materials, such as phosphorene, there is only a limited straintronic tuneability in this material often studied for its straintronic properties. QMC results are compared to results of standard DFT modeling, which reveal insights into the corresponding inaccuracies and therefore open a window for educated use of rapid DFT approaches.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Thermodynamic limit of spin systems on random graphs
Authors: Searle Amy , Tindall Joseph
Published: January 2024

We utilize the graphon—a continuous mathematical object which represents the limit of convergent sequences of dense graphs—to formulate a general, continuous description of quantum spin systems in thermal equilibrium when the average coordination number grows extensively in the system size. Specifically, we derive a closed set of coupled nonlinear Fredholm integral equations which governs the properties of the system. The graphon forms the kernel of these equations, and their solution yields exact expressions for the macroscopic observables in the system in the thermodynamic limit. We analyze these equations for both quantum and classical spin systems, recovering known results and providing analytical solutions for a range of more complex cases. We supplement this with controlled, finite-size numerical calculations using Monte Carlo and tensor network methods, showing their convergence towards our analytical results with increasing system size.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
How knowledge sharing affects career adaptability: roles of knowledge depth, self-efficacy and reflective thinking
Authors: Xu Shiyong , Yu Jia , Zhou Jinyi
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Drawing on the social cognitive model of career self-management (CSM model) and deep learning theory, the authors' study aims to investigate the effect of knowledge sharing on career adaptability and explore how and when this effect occurs. The authors proposed a moderated sequential-mediation model linking knowledge sharing, knowledge depth, self-efficacy and career adaptability, moderated by reflective thinking.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used a field survey involving 611 employees working in different enterprises in China to test the authors' predictions. For supplementary validation, the authors conducted a scenario-based experiment with a distinct sample of 148 employees from Chinese enterprises. The authors used hierarchical regression analysis, ANOVA analysis and moderated sequential-mediation analysis to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The results indicated a positive effect of knowledge sharing on career adaptability, sequentially mediated through knowledge depth and self-efficacy. Additionally, reflective thinking strengthened the positive effect of knowledge sharing on knowledge depth and further moderated the sequential mediating effect.

Originality/value

Previous research has predominantly focused on the perspective that individuals act as “recipients” from the environment in developing career adaptability. Instead, the authors adopt a “giving” perspective by investigating the influence of knowledge sharing on career adaptability, which advances the existing knowledge on the predictors of career adaptability.
Human factors and cyber-security risks on the railway – the critical role played by signalling operations
Authors: Thron Eylem , Faily Shamal , Dogan Huseyin , Freer Martin
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Railways are a well-known example of complex critical infrastructure, incorporating socio-technical systems with humans such as drivers, signallers, maintainers and passengers at the core. The technological evolution including interconnectedness and new ways of interaction lead to new security and safety risks that can be realised, both in terms of human error, and malicious and non-malicious behaviour. This study aims to identify the human factors (HF) and cyber-security risks relating to the role of signallers on the railways and explores strategies for the improvement of “Digital Resilience” – for the concept of a resilient railway.

Design/methodology/approach

Overall, 26 interviews were conducted with 21 participants from industry and academia.

Findings

The results showed that due to increased automation, both cyber-related threats and human error can impact signallers’ day-to-day operations – directly or indirectly (e.g. workload and safety-critical communications) – which could disrupt the railway services and potentially lead to safety-related catastrophic consequences. This study identifies cyber-related problems, including external threats; engineers not considering the human element in designs when specifying security controls; lack of security awareness among the rail industry; training gaps; organisational issues; and many unknown “unknowns”.

Originality/value

The authors discuss socio-technical principles through a hexagonal socio-technical framework and training needs analysis to mitigate against cyber-security issues and identify the predictive training needs of the signallers. This is supported by a systematic approach which considers both, safety and security factors, rather than waiting to learn from a cyber-attack retrospectively.
Forestry offsets under China’s certificated emission reduction (CCER) for carbon neutrality: regulatory gaps and the ways forward
Authors: Xu Shengqing
Published: January 2024

Purpose

As a typical nature-based solution to climate change, forestry carbon sinks are vital to achieving carbon neutrality in China. However, regulations in China are insufficient to promote the development of carbon offset projects in forestry. This study aims to identify the regulatory obstacles impeding the development of forestry offsets under China’s certified emission reduction (CCER) and explore ways to improve the regulatory system.

Design/methodology/approach

This study conducts a qualitative analysis using a normative legal research method. This study conducted a synthetic review of national and local regulatory documents to gain insights into the regulatory landscape of forestry offsets in China. The main contents and characteristics of these documents are illustrated. Furthermore, related secondary literature was reviewed to gain further insight into forestry offset regulations and to identify significant gaps in China’s CCER regulation.

Findings

Forestry offset regulations under the CCER are characterized by fragmentation and a relatively lower legally binding force. There is no systematic institutional arrangement for forestry offset development, impeding market expectations and increasing transaction costs. The main challenges in China’s regulation of forestry carbon sinks include entitlement ambiguity, complicated rules for registration and verification, a lack of mechanisms for incentives, risk prevention and biodiversity protection.

Originality/value

Forestry carbon sinks’ multiple environmental and social values necessitate their effective development and utilization. This study assessed forestry offset regulations in China and proposed corresponding institutional arrangements to improve forestry carbon sink regulations under the CCER.
Examining the white and dark sides of digitalisation effects on corruption: unveiling research patterns and insights for future research
Authors: Boța-Avram Cristina
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to review the current literature on the positive and negative effects of digitalisation in preventing corruption. It analyses existing research patterns and provides recommendations for future studies.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper employed bibliometric analysis and systematic review to scrutinise 190 papers from the Web of Science database from 2000 to 2023. Biblioshiny on R Studio was used for advanced bibliometric analysis to determine publication dynamics, influential journals, publications and impactful authors and a three-field plot to analyse relationships among countries, keywords and journals.

Findings

This study provides a bibliometric analysis of the past and actual developments in the field related to the effects of digitalisation on corruption. Based on the systematic literature review on a sample of the 50 most influential articles, this study identified background theories employed, the primary research methodologies adopted and valuable insights into both the positive and negative aspects of the impact of digitalisation on corruption.

Originality/value

This study provides an extended overview of the effects of digitalisation on corruption and advances new avenues for further research related to this field. The white and dark sides of the effects of digitalisation on corruption are highlighted. Furthermore, the study identifies the need for further research in this field to gain a more in-depth understanding of the nexus between digitalisation and corruption.
A study of cultural distance, eWOM and perceived risk in shaping higher education students' destination image and future travel plan
Authors: Yang Xia , Mohammad Jihad , Quoquab Farzana
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to predict the effect of cultural distance, perceived risk and electronic word of mouth (eWOM) on higher education institutes' students' destination image. In addition, it examines the mediating role of destination image in relation to students' travel intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey was employed to collect data from 200 graduate and postgraduate students. The partial least squares was employed to analyse the hypothesised relationships.

Findings

The results of this study found support for the positive effect of cultural distance and eWOM on destination image. Additionally, the mediating effect of destination image was also supported.

Originality/value

This research confirms the vital role of destination image as an antecedent of students' future intention to visit the destination. Moreover, this study contributes to marketing theory by predicting the critical drivers of higher education students' destination image and discussing their applications in the education sector.
The effects of polarisation on trust in government: evidence from Ethiopia
Authors: Gebrihet Hafte Gebreselassie , Mwale Martin Limbikani
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of polarisation on trust in government.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use the ordered probit technique to model trust as a function of polarisation and various control variables. The authors apply the instrumental variables approach to address potential endogeneity in polarisation, using ethnic diversity as an instrument.

Findings

The results reveal that an increase in polarisation reduces trust in central government. However, trust in local government is non-responsive to this polarisation. The estimations controlled for government performance, and the authors found a positive association between government performance and trust in government, which, however, does not alter the relationship between polarisation and trust in government.

Practical implications

In ethnically polarised nations, policymakers should consider decentralisation measures. This can help sustain trust and development support, particularly in regions where citizens prioritise ethnicity over nationality.

Social implications

The social implications of this research underscore the importance of promoting trust in government to foster social cohesion and stability, particularly in ethnically diverse societies.

Originality/value

The authors find that increased ethnic polarisation reduces trust in the central government, particularly among those prioritising their ethnicity over nationality. This adds a non-performance dimension to government trust literature, suggesting that policies focusing solely on performance may yield limited results. The research extends beyond central government trust to include local governments. Unlike central government, local government trust remains tied to performance attributes unaffected by polarisation. Hence, investing resources through local governments is a viable strategy for enhancing citizen support while mitigating polarisation’s adverse effects.
Strengths use support and knowledge sharing: mediating roles of work engagement and knowledge self-efficacy
Authors: Matsuo Makoto
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the influence of perceived supervisor support (PSS) for strengths use on knowledge sharing (KS) intentions, mediated through work engagement and knowledge self-efficacy, based on the job demand-resources theory and the broaden and build theory.

Design/methodology/approach

Structural equation modeling and bootstrap analyses were performed to examine the research model using data derived from a two-wave questionnaire survey of 162 employees from five health-care organizations.

Findings

The results indicate that PSS for strengths use promoted KS intentions fully mediated through work engagement and subsequently through knowledge self-efficacy. However, there was no direct relationship between PSS for strengths use and KS intention.

Originality/value

The contribution of this research to the literature on KS is to find the effectiveness of a strengths-based approach in promoting KS intentions across boundaries and identifying mediating factors that link PSS for strengths use to KS intentions.
Drivers of wood decay in tropical ecosystems: Termites versus microbes along spatial, temporal and experimental precipitation gradients
Authors: Wijas Baptiste J. , Flores‐Moreno Habacuc , Allison Steven D. , Rodriguez Luciana Chavez , Cheesman Alexander W. , Cernusak Lucas A. , Clement Rebecca , Cornwell Will K. , Duan Elizabeth S. , Eggleton Paul , Rosenfield Marc V. , Yatsko Abbey R. , Zanne Amy E.
Published: January 2024

Models estimating decomposition rates of dead wood across space and time are mainly based on studies carried out in temperate zones where microbes are dominant drivers of decomposition. However, most dead wood biomass is found in tropical ecosystems, where termites are also important wood consumers. Given the dependence of microbial decomposition on moisture with termite decomposition thought to be more resilient to dry conditions, the relative importance of these decomposition agents is expected to shift along gradients in precipitation that affect wood moisture.

Here, we investigated the relative roles of microbes and termites in wood decomposition across precipitation gradients in space, time and with a simulated drought experiment in tropical Australia. We deployed mesh bags with non‐native pine wood blocks, allowing termite access to half the bags. Bags were collected every 6 months (end of wet and dry seasons) over a 4‐year period across five sites along a rainfall gradient (ranging from savanna to wet sclerophyll to rainforest) and within a simulated drought experiment at the wettest site. We expected microbial decomposition to proceed faster in wet conditions with greater relative influence of termites in dry conditions.

Consistent with expectations, microbial‐mediated wood decomposition was slowest in dry savanna sites, dry seasons and simulated drought conditions. Wood blocks discovered by termites decomposed 16–36% faster than blocks undiscovered by termites regardless of precipitation levels. Concurrently, termites were 10 times more likely to discover wood in dry savanna compared with wet rainforest sites, compensating for slow microbial decomposition in savannas. For wood discovered by termites, seasonality and drought did not significantly affect decomposition rates.

Taken together, we found that spatial and seasonal variation in precipitation is important in shaping wood decomposition rates as driven by termites and microbes, although these different gradients do not equally impact decomposition agents. As we better understand how climate change will affect precipitation regimes across the tropics, our results can improve predictions of how wood decomposition agents will shift with potential for altering carbon fluxes.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Levi's and Lalaland.ai collaboration crisis
Authors: Maiolo Lila
Published: January 2024

Levi Strauss & Co., a popular fashion label commonly known as Levi's, was involved in a crisis situation in March 2023 as a result of their partnership with Lalaland.ai, an artificial intelligence (AI) company. The partnership was created with the intention of using AI‐generated models to show more diversity in Levi's modelling. However, the brand received intense backlash and criticism following the partnership's announcement for cheapening diversity by failing to use real models. In the format of a case study, this paper describes the situation and evaluates Levi's crisis response in this relevant and dynamic dilemma.
The clinical efficacy and safety of granulocyte and monocyte adsorptive apheresis in patients with Crohn's disease: A multicenter retrospective pilot study
Authors: Ueno Nobuhiro , Saito Seisuke , Sato Masahiro , Sugiyama Yuya , Kobayashi Yu , Murakami Yuki , Sugimura Kohjiro , Sasaki Takahiro , Sakatani Aki , Takahashi Keitaro , Tanaka Kazuyuki , Serikawa Shinya , Ando Katsuyoshi , Kashima Shin , Muto Momotaro , Inaba Yuhei , Moriichi Kentaro , Tanabe Hiroki , Okumura Toshikatsu , Fujiya Mikihiro
Published: January 2024

Introduction

A remission induction therapy of granulocyte and monocyte adsorptive apheresis (GMA) was given to patients with Crohn's disease (CD). However, establishing an appropriate treatment strategy for GMA in patients with CD remains unclear.

Methods

This study evaluated the clinical efficacy and subsequent clinical progression after GMA in patients with CD who underwent GMA in seven independent institutions in Japan from 2010 to 2023.

Results

Sixteen patients were enrolled. The overall remission and response rates were 25.0% and 68.8%, respectively. All patients responding to GMA received biologics that were continuously used and 36.4% of patients remained on the same biologics 52 weeks after GMA. Notably, all patients who continued the same biologics had previously experienced a loss of response to biologics.

Conclusion

GMA may exhibit effectiveness even in cases with refractory CD. Moreover, it represents a potential novel therapeutic option for refractory CD with loss of response to biologics.
Exploring factors associated with self‐rated health in individuals with diabetes and its impact on quality of life: Evidence from the Survey of Health, Ageing, and Retirement in Europe
Authors: Brückner Rosa Marie , Schönenberg Aline , Wientzek Rebecca , Schreiber Mandy , Prell Tino
Published: January 2024

Background

Self‐rated health (SRH), a measure of self‐reported general health, is a robust predictor of morbidity and mortality in various populations, including people with diabetes. Diabetes is negatively associated with SRH and quality of life (QoL). Little is known about how people with diabetes rate their health and which aspects influence the rating. Also, the predictive value of SRH on future QoL has not yet been evaluated.

Methods

We analyzed data from 46 592 participants of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE). Using linear regression, we aimed to determine which sociodemographic, socioeconomic, medical, social, mental, and health behavior factors determine SRH in people with diabetes. In addition, we analyzed the predictive value of SRH on future QoL using the generalized estimating equations procedure.

Results

We determined that country, current job situation, hospitalization, pain, polypharmacy, memory, eyesight, activities of daily living, number of chronic diseases, and depression are all linked to SRH. Together these variables explained 38% of the SRH's variance, whereas depression, pain, and memory had the greatest influence on SRH of people with diabetes. We also found that SRH independently predicted future QoL, supported by a regression coefficient of β = −1.261 (Wald chi‐square test, χ2 = 22.097, df = 1, p < .05).

Conclusions

As SRH is linked to future QoL, we conclude that incorporating SRH assessment into medical evaluations can help health care professionals gaining a more comprehensive understanding of an individual's health trajectory and supporting patients to enhance their QoL.

image
Egg‐sensitised infants have elevated CD4+ effector memory T regulatory cells from birth
Authors: Gamez Cristina , Leffler Jonatan , Clark Sharon , Corscadden Karli , Prescott Susan L. , Palmer Debra J. , Strickland Deborah
Published: January 2024

Background

IgE‐mediated sensitisation to egg is common in infants. In some cases, the processes leading to egg sensitisation are established in early life, even before introduction to solid foods. The underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood.

Methods

We performed detailed immune cell phenotyping of peripheral blood mononuclear cells and determined in vitro cytokine responses following allergen specific and non‐specific immune stimulation. To determine if unique immune profiles were linked to early‐life egg sensitisation, we compared 92 infants at 4–6 months of age, with (EggCAP+, n = 41) and without (EggCAP−, n = 51) early egg sensitisation. Additionally, 47 cord blood samples were analysed. For a subset of participants (n = 39), matching cord blood mononuclear cells were assessed by flow cytometry to establish the impact of IgE sensitisation on immune developmental trajectories.

Results

EggCAP+ infants were found to exhibit a unique immune phenotype characterised by increased levels of circulating CD4+ T regulatory cells (Treg), CD4+ effector memory (EM) Treg and increased expression of the IgE receptor, FcεR1, on basophils. The increased CD4+ EM Treg profiles were already present in cord blood samples from EggCAP+ infants. A general Th2‐skewing of the immune system was observed based on increased IL‐13 production following phytohemagglutinin stimulation and by comparing immune developmental trajectories, EggCAP+ infants displayed an expansion of basophils and reduced levels of CD4− T cells compared to EggCAP− infants.

Conclusions

Immunological profiles associated with egg sensitisation are detectable in infant circulation at 4–6 months of age and at birth. Understanding the immune mechanisms underlying early‐life sensitisation could provide important insights for future food allergy prevention strategies.
Differences in segmental fat accumulation patterns by sex and ethnicity: An international approach
Authors: Wong Arden K. , Asatiani Ketevan , Chávez‐Manzanera Emma , Elmer David J. , Heymsfield Steven B. , Hong Sangmo , Ilesanmi‐Oyelere Lilian , Kagawa Masaharu , Klobucar Sanja , Obeid Omar A. , Plotnikoff Ronald C. , Sardinha Luís B. , Sloughter J. McLean , Silva Analiza M. , Shultz Sarah P.
Published: January 2024

Excess fat on the body impacts obesity‐related co‐morbidity risk; however, the location of fat stores affects the severity of these risks. The purpose of this study was to examine segmental fat accumulation patterns by sex and ethnicity using international datasets. An amalgamated and cross‐calibrated dataset of dual x‐ray absorptiometry (DXA)‐measured variables compiled segmental mass for bone mineral content (BMC), lean mass (LM), and fat mass (FM) for each participant; percentage of segment fat (PSF) was calculated as PSFsegment = (FMsegment/(BMCsegment + LMsegment + FMsegment)) × 100. A total of 30 587 adults (N = 16 490 females) from 13 datasets were included. A regression model was used to examine differences in regional fat mass and PSF. All populations followed the same segmental fat mass accumulation in the ascending order with statistical significance (arms < legs < trunk), except for Hispanic/Latinx males (arms < [legs = trunk]). Relative fat accumulation patterns differed between those with greater PSF in the appendages (Arab, Mexican, Asian, Black, American Caucasian, European Caucasian, and Australasian Caucasian females; Black males) and those with greater PSF in the trunk (Mexican, Asian, American Caucasian, European Caucasian, and Australasian Caucasian males). Greater absolute and relative fat accumulation in the trunk could place males of most ethnicities in this study at a higher risk of visceral fat deposition and associated co‐morbidities.
Feasibility, accuracy, and usability analysis of MapAML, a first‐in‐class app for integrated diagnosis in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Moyen Thaís B. , Tomaz Victoria , Campregher Paulo V.
Published: January 2024

Performing a comprehensive diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is complex and involves the integration of clinical information, bone marrow morphology, immunophenotyping, cytogenetic, and molecular analysis, which can be challenging to the general hematologist. The aim of this study was to evaluate the usability and accuracy of MapAML, a smartphone app for integrated diagnosis in AML, created to aid the hematologist in its clinical practice. App performance was evaluated in dedicated sessions, in which 21 hematologists or fellows in hematology performed an integrated diagnosis of deidentified real‐world clinical AML cases, first without and posteriorly with MapAML use. Diagnosis accuracy increased after MapAML utilization, with the average score going from 7.08 without app to 8.88 with app use (on a scale from 0 to 10), representing a significant accuracy improvement (p = .002). Usability evaluation was very favorable, with 81% of users considering the app very or extremely simple to use. There was also a significant increase in confidence to perform a complete and accurate diagnosis in AML after app use, with 61.9% of the participants willing to use the app in their clinical practice. In this study, MapAML increased accuracy with excellent usability for integrated diagnosis in AML.
Fatigue limit estimation of metals based on the thermographic methods: A comprehensive review
Authors: Zaeimi Mohammad , De Finis Rosa , Palumbo Davide , Galietti Umberto
Published: January 2024

Infrared thermography has been under review in the last 30 years due to its versatility and potential in the detection of the thermal signature associated with intrinsic energy phenomena due to dissipative processes, specifically those relying on mechanical fatigue. Nowadays, it is a well‐established technique that can support mechanical and structural engineers to implement a damage‐tolerant design, assess the residual life, and finally characterize the fatigue behavior of materials. The aim of this work is to review all thermography‐based approaches and procedures for fatigue limit estimation by rapid tests, drawing considerations on the applicability of thermal methods in fatigue assessment of mechanical components, proposing the capabilities of different thermal indices in fatigue assessment, and discussing the pros and cons of each method as well as the open points. On one hand, this review intends to sum up what has already been done in the field; on the other hand, it provides a guideline to direct new researches toward issues that should be resolved or understood.
Preparation method investigation and structure identification by XRD and Raman techniques for A2B2O7 composite oxides
Authors: Zhang Shijing , Xu Junwei , Lu Chengxin , Ouyang Rumeng , Ma Jiamei , Zhong Xusheng , Fang Xiuzhong , Xu Xianglan , Wang Xiang
Published: January 2024

A2B2O7 oxides comprise four subcrystalline phase structures, which include the layered perovskite, pyrochlore, disordered defect fluorite, and rare‐earth C‐type structures. Herein, a series of A2B2O7 oxides have been synthesized using simple methods, and the X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopic characteristics of their subcrystalline phase structures are systematically summarized. It was found that the rA/rB ratio can be used to correctly determine the subcrystalline phase structure of the A2B2O7 oxides when the A‐site ions are rare‐earth ions. Although the A‐site ions are the main‐group metal ions, the rA/rB ratio cannot be used to accurately determine probably due to f electrons. Raman spectroscopy proves to be the most effective method for determining the subcrystalline phase structure, which is followed by XRD. The characteristic Raman spectral bands of disordered defect fluorites are closely related to their B‐site ion oxides with fluorite phase structures. For these A2B2O7 oxides with rA/rB ratios located at the edge value possessing the same elemental composition, different subcrystalline phase structures have been prepared by adopting different synthesis methods and calcination temperatures. The crystal phase of A2B2O7 oxides comprising two types of subcrystalline structures with a lower disorder degree is more stable at high temperatures.
Individual differences in executive function affect learning with immersive virtual reality
Authors: Lawson Alyssa P. , Mayer Richard E.
Published: January 2024

Background

Immersive virtual reality (IVR) is a new technology that could motivate learners, but also could contain distracting elements that increase cognitive demands on learners. In contrast, learning with conventional media, such as a narrated slideshow could be less motivating, but also less distracting.

Objectives

This experiment investigates: (1) in what situations executive function and working memory capacity play a role in learning in IVR and a slideshow lesson and (2) whether people learn science content better with IVR or with a narrated slideshow lesson.

Method

Participants watched a lesson on ocean acidification either using a head‐mounted display IVR device or a pre‐recorded narrated slideshow lesson. A week later, they took a test on this material and completed tasks to assess executive function and working memory capacity.

Results and Conclusion

On a post‐test, there was no difference between IVR and slideshow lessons, but there were differences in the role of executive function in learning with these two media. For students learning in IVR, executive function correlated significantly with post‐test scores, such that learners with stronger executive function did better on the posttest than those with weaker executive function, while for students learning with a slideshow lesson, executive function and working memory capacity did not correlate significantly with posttest scores. This research indicates that it is important to understand how a learner's attentional controls impact their understanding when using IVR for learning.
European expert consensus statement on the systemic treatment of alopecia areata
Authors: Rudnicka L. , Arenbergerova M. , Grimalt R. , Ioannides D. , Katoulis A. C. , Lazaridou E. , Olszewska M. , Ovcharenko Y. S. , Piraccini B. M. , Prohic A. , Rakowska A. , Reygagne P. , Richard M. A. , Soares R. O. , Starace M. , Vañó‐Galvan S. , Waskiel‐Burnat A.
Published: January 2024

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune form of non‐scarring hair loss. It is usually characterized by limited areas of hair loss. However, the disease may progress to complete scalp and body hair loss (alopecia totalis, alopecia universalis). In patients with alopecia areata hair loss significantly impacts the quality of life. Children and adolescents with alopecia areata often experience bullying, including physical aggression. The disease severity evaluation tools used in clinical practice are: the Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) score and the Alopecia Areata Scale (AAS). A SALT score equal to or greater than 20 constitutes a commonly accepted indication for systemic therapy in alopecia areata. When using the AAS, moderate to severe alopecia areata should be considered a medical indication for systemic treatment. Currently, the only two EMA‐approved medications for alopecia areata are baricitinib (JAK 1/2 inhibitor) for adults and ritlecitinib (JAK 3/TEC inhibitor) for individuals aged 12 and older. Both are EMA‐approved for patients with severe alopecia areata. Other systemic medications used off‐label in alopecia areata include glucocorticosteroids, cyclosporine, methotrexate and azathioprine. Oral minoxidil is considered an adjuvant therapy with limited data confirming its possible efficacy. This consensus statement is to outline a systemic treatment algorithm for alopecia areata, indications for systemic treatment, available therapeutic options, their efficacy and safety, as well as the duration of the therapy.
Bargaining power in the market for intellectual property: Evidence from licensing contract terms
Authors: Kankanhalli Gaurav , Kwan Alan
Published: January 2024

We study a novel database of intellectual property (IP) licensing agreements sourced from filings made by publicly listed corporations, a large fraction of which firms (initially) disclose with redacted terms. In contrast to the benchmark that IP quality alone determines the pricing of IP, we argue that bargaining power between licensing counterparties plays a critical role in explaining several patterns in observed royalty rates. Licensors with differentiated technology and high market power charge higher royalty rates, while larger‐than‐rival licensees pay lower royalty rates. Licensors command premium royalty rates for contract exclusivity, especially in competitive markets. Finally, we employ this framework and setting to understand the pricing implications of nondisclosure: licensors redact payment terms when they transact at lower royalty rates, consistent with preserving bargaining power for future negotiations. Our findings offer a new explanation for innovator secrecy and have several practical takeaways for transfer pricing and patent litigation.