bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Outcomes in Sebaceous Carcinoma: A Retrospective Two-Center Cohort Study
Authors: Kibbi Nour , Petric Ursa B. , El-Banna Ghida , Beaulieu Derek M. , Rajan Neil , Srivastava Divya , Aasi Sumaira Z.
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Sebaceous carcinoma (SC) is a rare, potentially recurrent, and life-threatening cutaneous malignancy that can be associated with Muir–Torre syndrome (MTS), a DNA mismatch repair-driven genodermatosis. Earlier studies examining factors associated with recurrence have focused on periocular tumors only.

OBJECTIVE

Examine outcomes of SC and identify factors associated with recurrence.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective study from 2 tertiary care centers.

RESULTS

Sixty-seven cases from 63 patients were identified, including 7 cases of MTS and 13 arising in the context of immunosuppression. Fifty-five cases (82.1%) were treated with complete circumferential peripheral and deep margin assessment (CCPDMA) methods. Five recurrences developed during the postoperative period. On univariate analysis, periocular location (odds ratio [OR] 7.6, p = .0410), and lesion size ≥2 cm (OR 9.6, p = .005) were associated with recurrence, whereas CCPDMA (OR 0.052, p = .0006) was inversely associated with recurrence. On multivariate analysis, only lesion size ≥2 cm (OR 9.6, p = .0233) and CCPDMA approaches (OR 0.052, p = .007) were significant.

CONCLUSION

Non–complete circumferential peripheral and deep margin assessment methods and large lesion size were independent risk factors predicting recurrence, whereas anatomic subtype and MTS status were not. These findings can assist in identifying SC cases that may benefit from more aggressive treatment and closer surveillance.
Refractive cataract surgery
Authors: Narang Rhea , Agarwal Ashvin
Published: November 2023

Purpose of review

The aim of this study to provide an overview of recent publications and opinions in refractive cataract surgery.

Recent findings

With the advent of intraocular lenses (IOLs) on different platforms, the surgeon has a wide arena of types of IOL to choose, depending on the patient's visual requirement. Optimization of the tear film, integrating tomography and topography devices for appropriate keratometry values, biometry, use of advanced formulas for IOL power calculation and application of newer IOLs can help achieve target refraction in cases scheduled for cataract surgery. Intraoperative aberrometry can be a useful aid for cataract surgery in postrefractive cases and can help minimize residual postoperative astigmatism.

Evolvement and rapid advancement of technology allows to impart desired refractive outcomes in most of the cases postcataract surgery. Appropriate preoperative and intraoperative factors should be considered to achieve the desired postoperative outcome.
Clinical outcomes of fetal selective reduction in dichorionic triplet pregnancies
Authors: Yang Yuezhou , Ye Xuping , Sun Xiaoxi
Published: November 2023

Background:

It is recommended to reduce triplet pregnancy containing monochorionic (MC) twins to singleton. Given that some couples with infertility are eager to retain twins, better strategy is needed to avoid obstetrical risks and satisfy their strong wish. This retrospective observational study aimed to investigate the outcomes of triplet pregnancy reduction.

Methods:

Subjects with triplet pregnancies who underwent selective reduction between 2016 and 2019 at our hospital were enrolled. A total of 66 subjects with dichorionic triplet (DCT) with MC twins and an MC singleton were divided into two groups: group A (N = 38), reduced to dichorionic diamniotic (DCDA) twins; group B (N = 28), reduced to MC diamniotic (MCDA) twins. Obstetrical and perinatal outcomes were compared between groups.

Results:

Group A had significantly lower rates of early miscarriage (0% vs 14.3%, p = 0.028), cesarean section (81.6% vs 100%, p = 0.041), and late premature delivery (21.1% vs 45.4%, p = 0.047) than group B. Significantly higher rates of full-term delivery (71% vs 36.4%, p = 0.009) and take-home baby (100% vs 78.6%, p = 0.004), and higher gestational age at delivery (median: 38 [36.9, 39.0] vs 35.8 [34.4, 37.0] weeks, p < 0.001), total neonatal weight (2899.7 ± 647.6 vs 2354.4 ± 651.8 g, p < 0.001), weight of twins (2550 vs 2350 g, p = 0.039), and weight of larger neonate in twins (2790 vs 2500 g, p = 0.045) were observed in group A compared to group B.

Conclusion:

DCT reduced to DCDA twins confers better pregnancy outcomes than into MCDA twins. This might benefit for triplet pregnancy subjects who strongly want to retain fraternal twins.
Genital elephantiasis: Surgical treatment and reconstruction
Authors: Sun Jeremy Mingfa , Yamamoto Takumi
Published: November 2023

Genital elephantiasis is a severe form of lymphedema of the groin. It is characterized by progressive enlargement and distortion of the genitals, presenting significant physical, psychological, and social challenges to the affected individuals. Although pharmacological treatment of filariasis is well-established in the medical field, the surgical management of genital elephantiasis can be varied and confusing. This review article provides an in-depth analysis of the etiology, classification, severity grading, and various effective surgical treatment and reconstructive modalities commonly employed by surgeons since the early twentieth century. We also discuss how a combination approach of ablation, soft tissue coverage, and lymphatic reconstruction is viable for treating genital elephantiasis. By examining the literature, we hope to provide insights into how surgery plays a role in the holistic management of genital elephantiasis.
Immediate Effect of Soft Lumbosacral Orthosis on Trunk Stability and Upper-Limb Functionality in Children with Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Uzun Asiye , Yakut Yavuz
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Lumbar lordosis is important for the spine and pelvis to work in harmony in providing trunk control and maintaining sagittal balance. Children with cerebral palsy (CP) have difficulties in providing trunk postural control and balance, which is critical for independence in daily living activities. This study was planned to examine the immediate effect of a lower-trunk orthosis supporting physiological lumbar lordosis on trunk control and upper-limb functionality in children with CP.

Objectives and Methods

A total of 30 children with CP, 13 diparetic, 11 hemiparetic, and 6 ataxic, 21 ambulatory (GMFCS I/II), and 9 nonambulatory (GMFCS III/IV) aged 3–16 years were included in the study. The Pediatric Functional Reach Test (PFRT) and the Seated Postural Control Measure (SPCM) were used to assess trunk control; the Pediatric Berg Balance Scale (PBBS) was used to assess balance; and the Box and Block Test (BBT) and the Nine-Hole Peg Test (9HPT) were used to evaluate upper-limb functions. All tests were performed with and without a soft lumbosacral brace. The braces were made of soft, elastic fabric with steel, and were made by the orthotic technician in four different sizes. The angle of lordosis was adjusted with steel underwires according to each child. The existing physiological lordosis of the child is supported by the brace. It is not intended to increase or decrease.

Results

In the study, the results of all evaluations with a brace were better than those without a brace (P < 0.05). No significant difference was found only in the functional part of the SPCM test (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Our study revealed that soft lumbosacral orthosis, which supports physiological lordosis, has a positive effect on trunk stability and upper-limb functionality in children with CP.

Clinical Relevance

In children’s trunk stability and upper-limb functionality studies, the use of soft lumbosacral orthosis that supports physiological lordosis can be added to rehabilitation programs and daily living activities as a support.
Is Vulvodynia Associated With an Altered Vaginal Microbiota?: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sacinti Koray Gorkem , Razeghian Hosna , Awad-Igbaria Yaseen , Lima-Silva Joana , Palzur Eilam , Vieira-Baptista Pedro , Verstraelen Hans , Bornstein Jacob
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Vulvodynia is defined as vulvar pain of at least 3 months' duration, without clear identifiable cause, which may have potential associated factors. It can have a significant impact on women's quality of life due to a combination of physical pain, emotional distress, and limited treatment options. Despite affecting a considerable number of women worldwide, the causes and underlying mechanisms of vulvodynia remain poorly understood. Given the recognized association of the vaginal microbiota with various gynecologic disorders, there has been growing interest in exploring the potential role of the vaginal microbiota in the etiology of vulvodynia. This systematic review aims to evaluate the current literature on the association between the vaginal microbiota and vulvodynia.

Material and Methods

A systematic search of multiple databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Ovid MEDLINE, was conducted to identify relevant peer-reviewed studies up to May 12, 2023. The following search terms were used across these databases: “vulvodynia,” “vestibulodynia,” “vulvar vestibulitis,” “microbiome,” “microbiota,” and “flora.”

Results

A total of 8 case-control studies were included, the quality of which was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Data extraction and synthesis were performed using a standardized protocol. In most studies, no major differences were found between the vaginal bacterial composition of women with vulvodynia and that of controls. No specific bacterial taxa were consistently associated with vulvodynia. The relationship between vaginal microbiota diversity and vulvodynia remains to be fully understood.

Conclusions

The role of vaginal microbiota in vulvodynia, if any, remains unclear. Because of the cross-sectional nature of the included studies, it is not possible to make any causal inferences. Further research, using larger and more diverse study populations and advanced sequencing techniques, is necessary to gain a better understanding of the potential relationship between the vaginal microbiota and vulvodynia.
Medical thoracoscopy for pleural diseases
Authors: So Matsuo , Chaddha Udit , Shojaee Samira , Lee Pyng
Published: November 2023

Purpose of review

The purpose of this review is to elaborate on the role of medical thoracoscopy for various diagnostic and therapeutic parietal pleural interventions. The renewed interest in medical thoracoscopy has been boosted by the growth of the field of interventional pulmonology and, possibly, well tolerated and evolving anesthesia.

Recent findings

Medical thoracoscopy to obtain pleural biopsies is established largely as a safe and effective diagnostic procedure. Recent data suggest how a pragmatic biopsy-first approach in specific cancer scenarios may be patient-centered. The current scope of medical thoracoscopy for therapeutic interventions other than pleurodesis and indwelling pleural catheter (IPC) placement is limited. In this review, we discuss the available evidence for therapeutic indications and why we must tread with caution in certain scenarios.

This article reviews contemporary published data to highlight the best utility of medical thoracoscopy as a diagnostic procedure for undiagnosed exudative effusions or effusions suspected to be secondary to cancers or tuberculosis. The potentially therapeutic role of medical thoracoscopy in patients with pneumothorax or empyema warrants further research focusing on patient-centered outcomes and comparisons with video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery.
Overlooked and Damaging Impact of Structural Racism and Implicit Bias on US Health Care
Authors: Green Sybil R. , Cross Christopher N.
Published: November 2023

Marginalized populations, including racial and ethnic minorities, have historically faced significant barriers to accessing quality health care because of structural racism and implicit bias. A brief review and analysis of past and historic and current policies demonstrate that structural racism and implicit bias continue to underscore a health system characterized by unequal access and distribution of health care resources. Although advances in cancer care have led to decreased incidence and mortality, not all populations benefit. New policies must explicitly seek to eliminate disparities and drive equity for historically marginalized populations to improve access and outcomes.
The Promise of Cancer Health Justice
Authors: Villamar Dario M. , Polite Blase N.
Published: November 2023

Disparities in outcomes and persistent barriers to adequate care in colorectal cancer are reflective of a system that has failed to achieve the ideals of health equity and health justice. In this review, we discuss that although much research has been done to improve upon gaps in screening, treatment, and supportive care in colorectal cancer, a concerted effort across multiple research, regulatory, and funding stakeholders with community-level organizations is essential in building a self-sustained system that effectively achieves health equity outcomes. We also highlight several examples of novel community-based interventions along the continuum of cancer care that demonstrate the potential of what can be accomplished when we invest in scaling up small-scale solutions to the state and national levels and offer ways in which stakeholders and the community may mutually benefit through a system of incentives, self-assessment tools, and attainable metrics.
Switching to Doravirine in cART-Experienced Patients: An Effective and Highly Tolerated Option With Substantial Cost Savings
Authors: Lanting Vincent R. , Oosterhof Piter , Ait Moha Daoud , van Heerde Roos , Kleene Marie José T. , Stalenhoef Janneke E. , de Regt Marieke J.A. , Vrouenraets Saskia M.E. , van den Berk Guido E.L. , Brinkman Kees ,   on behalf of the HIV-team OLVG
Published: November 2023

Background:

Doravirine is a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor with demonstrated efficacy as a third agent in treatment-naive and treatment-experienced people living with HIV (PLWH) in registration studies. However, limited real-world data are available.

Methods:

By searching electronic health care records, PLWH using doravirine-based regimens were selected with at least 1 year of follow-up after their first prescription. All stable PLWH who were switched to a doravirine-based regimen were included in the analysis. The primary outcome was the durability of a doravirine-based regimen 1 year after prescription. Reasons for stopping were also collected. Secondary outcomes for PLWH continuing a doravirine-based regimen after 1 year were routine laboratory assessment, body mass index, and differences in medication costs compared with their previous cART.

Results:

A total of 687 patients (92% men) were included from September 2019 to August 2022: 97.7% switched to doravirine/tenofovir/lamivudine (DOR/TDF/3TC). After 1 year, 94/687 (13.6%) PLWH stopped this therapy. The main reason for discontinuation was patient-reported adverse events in 70/687 (10.2%). Medical reasons for discontinuation included increased alanine tranaminase levels in 6/687 (0.9%), decreased estimated glomerular filtration rate in 3/687 (0.4%), and precautions after diagnosis of osteoporosis in 2/687 (0.3%) patients. Virologic failure occurred in 4/687 cases (0.6%), and 1 case demonstrated resistance mutations. The secondary outcomes demonstrated a statistically significant increase in alanine tranaminase levels and decrease in LDL-c levels. The switch to a doravirine-based regimen in the Netherlands reduced medication costs by 27%.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrated that switching to a doravirine-based regimen, mostly DOR/TDF/3TC, was highly effective and generally well tolerated, with substantial cost savings.
Extramedullary Plasmacytoma of the Retroperitoneum Detected on 18F-FDG PET/CT
Authors: Deng Yan , Deng Ying , Zhang Wei , Lei Xiaoping
Published: November 2023

Solitary retroperitoneal extramedullary plasmacytoma is a rare neoplasm. A 67-year-old man presented with abdominal pain and left leg weakness. Abdominal CT revealed a large mass in the left retroperitoneum, which demonstrated increased metabolic activity on subsequent 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging. Furthermore, the patient’s serum protein electrophoresis showed positive M-protein results. Pathological examination of the biopsied specimen confirmed the diagnosis of extramedullary plasmacytoma.
Article Factors Influencing Gender Disparities in Senior Authorship of Plastic Surgery Publications
Authors: Ngaage Ledibabari Mildred , Borrelli Mimi R. , Ketheeswaran Suvethavarshini , Shores Jaimie T.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Female plastic surgeons publish fewer and lower impact articles. To better understand how to address this gender gap, we explored the temporal trends in female senior authorship and evaluated predictive factors for female senior authorship.

Methods

A retrospective review of articles published in the 3 highest impact plastic surgery journals published from 2010 to 2020 was conducted. Trends with female senior authorship across time were analyzed with respect to study type, subspeciality, and geographical origin.

Results

Of the 5425 articles included, 13% (n = 720) had a female senior author, and female senior authorship increased across time (R = 0.84, P = 0.033). Over the decade, an increased proportion of cohort studies (R = 0.82, P = 0.045), systematic reviews (R = 0.96, P = 0.003), breast-related articles (R = 0.88, P = 0.022), and reconstruction-related articles (R = 0.83, P = 0.039) were published by female senior authors. Subspecialty and geography predicted female senior authorship; articles focused on aesthetic (odds ratio [OR] = 1.3, P = 0.046) and breast (OR = 1.7, P < 0.001) subspecialties or those originating from Canada (OR = 1.7 P = 0.019), Europe (OR = 1.5, P < 0.001), and Latin America (OR = 3.0, P < 0.001) were more likely to have a female senior author. Articles from East Asia were less likely to have female senior authors (OR = 0.7, P = 0.005).

Conclusion

Female senior authorship in plastic surgery has increased over the last decade, and the proportion of female plastic surgeons leading cohort studies and systematic reviews is increasing. Sex of the senior author is influenced by plastic surgery subspecialty and geographical origin, but article type did not impact the odds of female senior authorship.
Is nonoperative management of appendicitis inferior in the COVID-19 era?
Authors: Grimsley Emily A. , Rogers Michael P. , Janjua Haroon M. , Pietrobon Ricardo , Diaz Jose J. , Kuo Paul C. , Read Meagan D. ,   on behalf of the N3C Consortium
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Previous studies on nonoperative management (NOM) of acute appendicitis (AA) indicated comparable outcomes to surgery, but the effect of COVID-19 infection on appendicitis outcomes remains unknown. Thus, we evaluate appendicitis outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic to determine the effect of COVID-19 infection status and treatment modality. We hypothesized that active COVID-19 patients would have worse outcomes than COVID-negative patients, but that outcomes would not differ between recovered COVID-19 and COVID-negative patients. Moreover, we hypothesized that outcomes would not differ between nonoperative and operative management groups, regardless of COVID-19 status.

METHODS

We queried the National COVID Cohort Collaborative from 2020 to 2023 to identify adults with AA who underwent operative or NOM. COVID-19 status was denoted as follows: COVID-negative, COVID-active, or COVID-recovered. Intention to treat was used for NOM. Propensity score–balanced analysis was performed to compare outcomes within COVID groups, as well as within treatment modalities.

RESULTS

A total of 37,868 patients were included: 34,866 COVID-negative, 2,540 COVID-active, and 460 COVID-recovered. COVID-active and recovered less often underwent operative management. Unadjusted, there was no difference in mortality between COVID groups for operative management. There was no difference in rate of failure of NOM between COVID groups. Adjusted analysis indicated, compared with operative, NOM carried higher odds of mortality and readmission for COVID-negative and COVID-active patients.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates higher odds of mortality among NOM of appendicitis and near equivalent outcomes for operative management regardless of COVID-19 status. We conclude that NOM of appendicitis is associated with worse outcomes for COVID-active and COVID-negative patients. In addition, we conclude that a positive COVID test or recent COVID-19 illness alone should not preclude a patient from appendectomy for AA. Surgeon clinical judgment of a patient's physiology and surgical risk should, of course, inform the decision to proceed to the operating room.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic/Care Management; Level III.
Teaching Students to Write Sentences
Authors: Ritchey Kristen D. , Coker David L. , Myers Matthew C. , Zhang Fan
Published: November 2023

Being able to write a sentence is an essential part of overall writing proficiency, but this can be a challenge for many students. This article provides a systematic review of the extant literature on sentence-writing instruction. Sixteen studies designed to improve sentence writing for students who are typically achieving or have disabilities or other writing needs were reviewed. Across studies, explicit instruction, self-regulation strategies, and sentence-writing practice were associated with improvements in writing. Directions for future research and limitations in the existing knowledge base about sentence-writing instruction and interventions are described.
Reduced threat avoidance but increased stress induced approach bias in women taking oral contraceptives
Authors: Thurley Jasmin , Buades-Rotger Macià , Serfling Georg , Howaldt Thessa , Reisch Nicole , Krämer Ulrike M.
Published: November 2023

Recent research has increasingly acknowledged the impact of oral contraceptives on affective behavior and stress responses; however, the underlying mechanisms are still not well understood. Studies have previously shown that steroid hormones modulate automatic approach and avoidance behavior. Here, we thus investigated the effects of oral contraceptives on approach and avoidance behavior and whether these effects are modulated by stress. The study comprised 130 female participants, half of whom were using oral contraceptives, while the other half were not using any hormonal contraception (NC). The participants completed the Approach Avoidance Task (AAT), which measures automatic approach and avoidance behavior to socio-affective signals. The AAT was run once before and once after a stress manipulation using the Socially Evaluated Cold Pressor Test. OC users showed absent avoidance behavior to social threat signals and a stress-induced increase in approach behavior to positive social signals. The latter was found in particular in women taking androgenic acting OC, demonstrating that different OC preparations need to be taken into account in research on OC effects. However, OC and NC group did not differ in their cortisol stress response. Overall, the results suggest that OC usage impacts on approach and avoidance behavior to social signals, which might also contribute to the development of affective side effects.
The Shexiang Baoxin Pill Protects Myocardial Cells from Multiple Targets of MIRI through the PI3K/Akt/eNOS Signal Pathway
Authors: Na WEI , Siyuan LI , Yuan GAO , Zhenbing LIU
Published: November 2023

Background

Myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI) can significantly aggravate myocardial injury in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). At present, there are few effective treatments for MIRI. The Shexiang Baoxin Pill (SBP) can reduce MIRI. The PI3K/Akt/eNOS signaling pathway, inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis are all involved in the regulation of MIRI. SBP has multi-component, multi-target, and synergistic effects, but its mechanism of action on MIRI has not been reported.

Purpose

We sought to explore whether SBP exerts a protective mechanism by inhibiting the inflammatory reaction, oxidative stress, and apoptosis, reducing MIRI through the PI3K/Akt/eNOS signal pathway.

Materials and methods

Hypoxia-reoxygenation (H/R) H9c2 cardiomyocytes were used as an in vitro model of MIRI. The active components of Shexiang Baoxin pills were extracted with water. The levels of phosphorylated proteins and genes related to the PI3K/Akt/eNOS pathway were measured by Western blotting and real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR. Cell viability, apoptosis rates, and apoptosis-related proteins (Bcl-2, Bax, Caspase-3) were detected by CCK-8, flow cytometry, and Western blotting. The expression of reactive oxygen species (ROS), homocysteine (Hcy), malondialdehyde (MDA), and gp91phoxwas detected by fluorescence probe, ELISA, TBA, and Western blotting. The levels of inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-18) were measured by an ELISA method.

Results

SBP increased the cell survival rate of H/R cardiomyocytes, reduced the injury to H/R cardiomyocytes, and increased the protein phosphorylation levels of p-PI3KY607, p-AktSer473, p-eNOSSer1177, and mRNA of H/R cardiomyocytes. In addition, SBP increased the level of Bcl-2 protein and the Bcl-2/Bax ratio and decreased the apoptosis rate and Bax and Caspase-3 expression. It reduced the levels of oxidative stress indexes (ROS, HCY, MDA, and gp91phox) and inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-18) and enhanced antioxidant stress, anti-apoptosis, and an anti-inflammatory reaction. The above effects were attenuated after the inhibition of the PI3K/Akt/eNOS signal pathway.

Conclusion

We established that SBP extract inhibited oxidative stress, inflammatory response, and apoptosis through the PI3K/Akt/eNOS signal pathway and alleviated the injury of H9c2 cells induced by hypoxia-reoxygenation.
Crystal structure of polymeric bis(3-amino-1H-pyrazole)cadmium dibromide
Authors: Kuzevanova Iryna S. , Vynohradov Oleksandr S. , Pavlenko Vadim A. , Malinkin Sergey O. , Shova Sergiu , Fritsky Igor O. , Seredyuk Maksym
Published: November 2023

The reaction of cadmium bromide tetrahydrate with 3-aminopyrazole (3-apz) in ethanolic solution leads to tautomerization of the ligand and the formation of crystals of the title compound, catena-poly[[dibromidocadmium(II)]-bis(μ-3-amino-1H-pyrazole)-κ2
N
3:N
2;κ2
N
2:N
3], [CdBr2(C3H5N3)2]
n
or [CdBr2(3-apz)2]
n
. Its asymmetric unit consists of a half of a Cd2+ cation, a bromide anion and a 3-apz molecule. The Cd2+ cations are coordinated by two bromide anions and two 3-apz ligands, generating trans-CdN4Br2 octahedra, which are linked into chains by pairs of the bridging ligands. In the crystal, the ligand molecules and bromide anions of neighboring chains are linked through interchain hydrogen bonds into a two-dimensional network. The intermolecular contacts were quantified using Hirshfeld surface analysis and two-dimensional fingerprint plots, revealing the relative quantitative contributions of the weak intermolecular contacts.
Key innovation abilities on capability and the performance of women entrepreneurs: the role of entrepreneurial education and proactive personality
Authors: Maziriri Eugine Tafadzwa , Nyagadza Brighton , Chuchu Tinashe
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to ascertain the influence of innovation conviction, innovation mindset and innovation creed on the performance of women entrepreneurs in South African small and medium enterprises and their capacity for innovation. The study also examined how proactive personality and entrepreneurial education moderate the relationship between innovative capability and women entrepreneurs' performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a quantitative research design and administered a questionnaire to collect data from participants. Since there was no sampling frame available, purposive sampling, a non-probability sampling technique, was used to select suitable respondents who were identified as entrepreneurial women. Data were collected from 304 women entrepreneurs in the Gauteng province of South Africa. The data were analyzed using smart partial least squares.

Findings

The findings demonstrated that innovation conviction, innovation mindset and innovation creed have a positive impact on innovation capability. It was also discovered that innovation capability, proactive personality and entrepreneurial education all positively and significantly impact women entrepreneurs' performance. Furthermore, the results showed that entrepreneurial education and proactive personality had a positive and significant moderating effect on the nexus between innovation capability and the performance of women entrepreneurs.

Originality/value

This study will add to the body of knowledge on women's small business management and entrepreneurship in Africa, two topics that are typically ignored by academics in developing nations.
Kaleidofin
Authors: Mendonca Valerie , Sharma Supriya , Jain A. K.
Published: November 2023

Kaleidofin was co-founded in 2017 by Puneet Gupta and Sucharita Mukherjee; former CFO and CEO of IFMR (Institute for Financial Management and Research) Holdings Pvt Ltd. As part of their roles at IFMR, Gupta and Mukherjee focused on designing products and developing technology to push for financial inclusion. In their field interactions, the co-founders had an epiphany of the challenges faced by people while trying to save towards important life goals. They saw an opportunity in the large segment of financially under-served people in India and quit their jobs to start Kaleidofin. Kaleidofin was conceptualised as a digital platform that offers customised financial solutions to help customers meet their life goals. The start-up partnered with mutual fund companies for solutions on one hand and network partners (NGOs, microfinance organizations, cooperative banks) on the other for access to their existing customers.

Kaleidofin grew from 50 customers in January 2018 to 15,000 customers by March 2019. Aiming to grow to 1 million customers in the next 30 months Kaleidofin faces a dilemma about its future course. The start-up could continue to grow by expanding its current target segment which is the low-income households and preserve its vision at the risk of increasing costs. The second option would be to look at other potential target segments, such as, middle-income households and risk diluting their vision. The case study highlights the unique customer-centric model of Kaleidofin and the need for start-ups to understand the value proposition of their products/services.
Dealing with the Coronavirus: The Case of the Indian Pharma Industry
Authors: Sahay Arvind , Joshi Varuna M.
Published: November 2023

The pandemic induced lockdown lead to supply and manufacturing disruptions that were swiftly dealt with by the Indian Pharma Industry through successful industry-government collaboration. By May 2020 production was back to normal and exports were higher than the same period in May 2019. The case deals with the processes that enabled this to happen, the policy responses and the changes that happened in the period from March 2020 to August 2020.
Medplus - An Employee's Perspective
Authors: Vohra Neharika , Bhayana Chayanika , Arora Harnain , Sud Kashika
Published: November 2023

The case revolves around a critical incident that took place at an Indian pharmaceutical company, in which various stakeholders had very different perspectives regarding the nature, causes and consequences of the incident. By illustrating the contrasting perceptions of the same event, the authors have shed light on the nature of perception and perceptual processes, including cognitive biases and errors in human judgement. The case provides insights into how these manifest in the organisational context and how managers could be made more aware of them to avoid errors in judgment and make choices that are more informed.
Female leadership and ESG performance of firms: Nordic evidence
Authors: Yahya Habeeb
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to focus on the relationship between female leadership and the environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance of firms. Specifically, the study examines if firms with women as chief executive officers (CEOs) and/or board chairpersons have higher environmental and social scores.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses data on publicly listed Nordic firms in a panel regression approach to establish the relationship between female leadership and the environmental and social performance of firms.

Findings

The result of this study shows that women have a leadership characteristic that increases the weighted average of environmental (E) and social (S) performance of a firm. In particular, pillar score results indicate a positive relationship between female CEOs and the social scores of a firm but no relationship between a female board chairperson and the environmental or social scores of a firm. This implies that gender-based differences affect the CEO’s success, especially in a firm’s social performance. Further analyses show a more significant impact on the E and S performance when a woman replaces a man as CEO of a firm.

Originality/value

While prior research has explored various aspects of gender diversity in corporate leadership and its potential impact, the focus on the Nordic context in this study provides a unique perspective, given the region’s distinct business environment and societal factors. In addition, by examining the collective influence of female leaders and both female CEOs and board chairpersons separately, this study provides a nuanced understanding of how different leadership roles may impact a firm’s ESG performance.
Management of gallstone disease and chronic liver diseases during the COVID-19 outbreak in Ukraine: an ecological study
Authors: Bogomaz Volodymyr , Natrus Larysa , Ziuz Nataliia , Starodub Tetiana
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to estimate the possible impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the hospitalization and hospital mortality of the patients with gallstone disease and chronic liver diseases (CLD) in the worst pandemic period in Ukraine.

Design/methodology/approach

A retrospective comparative analysis of annual reports data of all economy subjects, which conducted economic activity in medical practice for 2019 and 2021. Data was accepted from the Ministry of Health of Ukraine, the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine (NSDC) and the State Statistics Service of Ukraine (SSSU).

Findings

The total hospitalization rates for diffuse liver disease and cholelithiasis significantly decreased during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic in Ukraine, compared to the values of 2019. At the same time, the rates of in-hospital mortality for these diseases have significantly grown. Also, various proportions of similar trends were described in other countries during the first wave of the pandemic.

Originality/value

This paper highlights the fact that regulatory restrictions and the fear of the population of referring to healthcare facilities considering the high risk of getting an infection had significant disruption to medical care for patients with gallstone disease and CLD. Improving the management of medical resources and strengthening all kinds of institutions in the healthcare system must be thought about if similar challenges appear in the future.
Research of operation mode of high-speed trains on the effect of rail wear evolution law
Authors: Qi Yayun , Wang Ruian , Cui Xiaolu , Sang Hutang , Mao Wenhui
Published: November 2023

Purpose

With the increased speed and mileage of high-speed lines, the problem of rail wear is increasing. In actual operation, a large number of abnormal wear phenomena occur on both vehicles and rails during fixed line operation; therefore, the purpose of the study is to explored the rail wear for a variety of vehicles running in mixed operation.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper used the universal mechanism multibody dynamics software to establish the CRH2 high speed train (HST) and the CRH3 HST vehicle dynamic models, respectively. The mixed running of HSTs on the effect of rail wear evolution law was analyzed. The rail wear of the two vehicles with different curve radii, different wheel diameters and different under-rail stiffness was compared and analyzed.

Findings

The result showed that the rail wear of CRH3 HST is greater than that of CRH2 HST. The rail wear in the tangent track under mixed operation conditions is 25.4% less than when CRH3 HST operated independently. When there is a 1-mm wheel diameter difference, the maximum rail wear of CRH2 HST and CRH3 HST increases by 263% and 44%, respectively. The amount of rail wear is proportional to the under-rail stiffness, and the position of the maximum wear is almost unchanged.

Originality/value

Most studies on the evolution law of rail wear are conducted for a single vehicle type and a single line. This study explored the mixed running of HSTs on the effect of rail wear evolution law.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-08-2023-0276/
The effects of working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic on work–life balance, work–family conflict and employee burnout
Authors: Khalid Afaf , Raja Usman , Malik Abdur Rahman , Jahanzeb Sadia
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Despite the extent of working from home (WFH) during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, research exploring its positive or negative effects is exceptionally scarce. Unlike the traditional positive view of WFH, the authors hypothesize that WFH during the COVID-19 pandemic has triggered work–life imbalance and work–family conflict (WFC) for employees. Furthermore, the authors suggest that work–life imbalance and WFC elicit burnout in employees.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a time-lagged design, the authors collected data in three waves during the peak of the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic to test the authors' hypotheses.

Findings

Overall, the authors found good support for the proposed hypotheses. WFH had a significant positive relationship with burnout. WFH was negatively related to work–life balance (WLB) and positively related to WFC. Both WLB and WFC mediated the effects of WFH on burnout.

Practical implications

This is one of the earliest studies to explore the harmful effects of involuntary WFH and identify the channels through which these effects are transmitted. The practical implications can help managers deal with the adverse effects of WFH during and after the COVID-19 crisis.

Originality/value

The authors' results significantly contribute to the research on WFH and burnout and present important implications for practice and future research.
From ‘United Stabilisation Fund’ to ‘International Monetary Organisation’: the Forgotten Chinese Plan and Its Contributions to the Creation of the International Monetary Fund
Authors: ZHANG SHIWEI , WANG ZHAODONG
Published: November 2023

China's function in the establishment of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank (WB) has been underrated for a long time. It is argued either that China contributed little to the establishment or that its main effort could be accredited to Arthur N. Young, an American financial advisor to the Chinese government. A close examination of bilingual archival documents challenges these arguments. In fact, the Chinese government formulated proposals of several versions and managed to have most of its claims accepted at the Bretton Woods conference. More importantly, Chinese claims surpassed their own concerns and had a broader meaning taking into account the general quests of war‐torn and undeveloped countries. Revisiting this part of history can deliver a balance to the traditional Anglo‐American‐focused narrative regarding the IMF and WB and enrich the historical context to assist our understanding of China's current pursuits and conduct in the realm of multilateral economic cooperation.
Long‐lasting mechanical hypersensitivity and CRF receptor type‐1 neuron activation in the BNST following adolescent ethanol exposure
Authors: Bertagna Natalia B. , Wilson Lisa , Bailey Connor K. , Cruz Fabio C. , Albrechet‐Souza Lucas , Wills Tiffany A.
Published: November 2023

Background

Adolescent alcohol use can produce long‐lasting alterations in brain function, potentially leading to adverse health outcomes in adulthood. Emerging evidence suggests that chronic alcohol use can increase pain sensitivity or exacerbate existing pain conditions, but the potential neural mechanisms underlying these effects require further investigation. Here, we evaluate the impact of chronic ethanol vapor on mechanical sensitivity over the course of acute and protracted withdrawal in adolescent and adult male and female mice, and its potential association with alterations in corticotropin‐releasing factor (CRF) signaling within the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST).

Methods

Adolescent and adult male and female mice underwent intermittent ethanol vapor exposure on 4 days/week for 2 weeks. Mechanical thresholds were evaluated 5 h and 7, 14, 21, and 28 d after cessation of ethanol exposure using the von Frey test. For mice with a history of adolescent ethanol exposure, brains were collected for in situ RNAscope processing after the final test. Messenger RNA expression of c‐Fos, Crfr1, and Crf in the BNST subregions was examined.

Results

Exposure to intermittent ethanol vapor induced persistent mechanical hypersensitivity during withdrawal in both adolescent and adult mice. Notably, the effect was more transient in mice exposed to ethanol during adulthood, resolving by day 28 after ethanol exposure. Furthermore, both male and female mice with a history of adolescent ethanol exposure exhibited increased activation of CRF receptor type 1 (CRFR1) neurons within the dorsolateral BNST.

Conclusions

Our results support the conclusion that intermittent ethanol exposure can induce mechanical hypersensitivity, potentially through the activation of BNST CRFR1 neurons. These findings provide a basis for future studies aimed at evaluating specific subpopulations of BNST neurons and their contribution to pain in individuals with a history of alcohol use.
Renal cortex microperfusion evaluated by laser speckle contrast imaging in an ex vivo perfused kidney model—A proof‐of‐concept study
Authors: Arildsen Maibritt Meldgaard , Thrane Lars , Staulund Jesper , Eijken Marco , Jespersen Bente , Postnov Dmitry , Al‐Mashhadi Rozh H. , Pedersen Michael
Published: November 2023

Background

Validated quantitative biomarkers for assessment of renal graft function during normothermic machine perfusion (NMP) conditions are lacking. The aim of this project was to quantify cortex microperfusion during ex vivo kidney perfusion using laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI), and to evaluate the sensitivity of LSCI when measuring different levels of renal perfusion. Furthermore, we aimed to introduce LSCI measurements during NMP in differentially damaged kidneys.

Methods

Eleven porcine kidneys were nephrectomized and perfused ex vivo. Cortex microperfusion was simultaneously monitored using LSCI. First, a flow experiment examined the relationship between changes in delivered renal flow and corresponding changes in LSCI‐derived cortex microperfusion. Second, renal cortical perfusion was reduced stepwise by introducing a microembolization model. Finally, LSCI was applied for measuring renal cortex microperfusion in kidneys exposed to minimal damage or 2 h warm ischemia (WI).

Results

Cortex microperfusion was calculated from the LSCI‐obtained data. The flow experiment resulted in relatively minor changes in cortex microperfusion compared to the pump‐induced changes in total renal flow. Based on stepwise injections of microspheres, we observed different levels of cortex microperfusion that correlated with administrated microsphere dosages (r2 = 0.95–0.99). We found no difference in LSCI measured cortex microperfusion between the kidneys exposed to minimal damage (renal cortex blood flow index, rcBFI = 2090–2600) and 2 h WI (rcBFI = 2189–2540).

Conclusions

Based on this preliminary study, we demonstrated the feasibility of LSCI in quantifying cortex microperfusion during ex vivo perfusion. Furthermore, based on LSCI‐measurements, cortical microperfusion was similar in kidneys exposed to minimal and 2 h WI.
The Roman to medieval landscape transformation at Aardenburg (southern The Netherlands) based on palynology and diatom analysis
Authors: André Coralie , de Ruijsscher Dante , De Clercq Wim , Bogemans Frieda , Van de Vijver Bart , Storme Annelies , Louwye Stephen
Published: November 2023

The region of Bruges (Flanders, Belgium) was an economic and cultural centre during the Late Middle Ages because it was connected to the North Sea via a large tidal inlet called the Zwin, along which smaller towns developed. One of these towns was Aardenburg (Zeeland, The Netherlands), which developed from a Roman castellum to become one of the important medieval towns in the hinterland of Bruges. Unfortunately, archaeological, historical and (palaeo)environmental data about the Roman to medieval evolution of the Zwin area are scarce. However, the continuous occupation of Aardenburg during the first millennium AD and its location on a Pleistocene sand ridge bordering the coastal plain provide a unique opportunity to investigate the natural dynamics of the coastal evolution and the interplay with the human impact that shaped the Zwin region before its heyday. The variable character of the depositional environments on the dynamic coastal plain makes local environmental studies essential for understanding larger patterns, which were previously reduced to a simplistic outdated model over the entire region. Palynological and diatom assemblages of two sequences in Aardenburg allow the reconstruction of the terrestrial and aquatic palaeoenvironments from the Middle Holocene to the high Middle Ages. The results reveal landscape evolution in relation to woodlands, peat bogs, coastal environments and human presence, consistent with previous regional landscape evolution. A distinct increase in marine influence during the Roman and early medieval periods, when human activities played a significant role, was followed by an increase in inland indicators from the high medieval period onwards. This evolution is in accordance with the expansion of the town and the reclamation of the coastal landscape as it evolved to become a cultural centre in the Late Middle Ages.