bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mortality and Causes of Death Among Individuals With Keratoconus
Authors: Meyer Jay J. , Meeks Huong , Li Kuan , Guinto Emily , Olson Randall J. 
Published: May 2024

Purpose:
The purpose of this study was to determine whether there is an increased risk of mortality among individuals with keratoconus.

Methods:
This was a retrospective, case-control study using the Utah Population Database. Cases were defined as individuals diagnosed with keratoconus from 1996 to 2020 and were matched 5:1 with controls on birth year, sex, whether born in Utah, and follow-up time in Utah. Individuals diagnosed with trisomy 21 or connective tissue disease were excluded. Main outcome measures were the all-cause and cause-specific mortality among keratoconus cases compared with matched controls. Cox regression models were used, additionally adjusting for race and ethnicity.

Results:
A total of 7847 keratoconus cases and 38,597 controls were studied in the final analyses. The mean age at index diagnosis was 43 ± 17 years, and mean age at last follow-up was 54 ± 17 years for both cases and controls. At last follow-up, 92% of cases were living compared with 91% of controls. After adjusting for covariates, there were no significant differences in all-cause mortality (P = 0.161), mortality from natural causes (0.222), or mortality from unnatural causes (P = 0.494) between cases and controls. When analyzed according to specific causes of death, keratoconus cases had a higher mortality risk from diseases of the nervous system and sense organs compared with their matching controls (hazard ratio 1.59; 95% confidence interval, 1.19–2.11; P = 0.002).

Conclusions:
There was no evidence of an increased risk of mortality among individuals with keratoconus. There may be an increased risk of death due to diseases of the nervous system and sense organs among individuals with keratoconus.
Quality Coordinators’ Perspectives on Quality Improvement in Primary Healthcare in Kosovo: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Baraku Ardita , Pavleković Gordana 
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

Aims:
This qualitative descriptive study provides insights into the experiences of quality coordinators (QCs) in primary healthcare to inform policy and practice actions and empower QCs to enhance healthcare quality.

Methods:
We conducted focus group discussions with purposefully selected QCs to understand their motivations, job experiences, factors influencing healthcare quality, and suggestions for quality improvement. Content analysis and deductive coding were used to scrutinize the responses and answer the research questions.

Results:
The QCs thought highly about their job performance and were motivated by both extrinsic and intrinsic factors. Clinical audits, collegial reviews, and managerial support positively affected QCs' performance. In contrast, a lack of managerial support, limited working hours, and changes in organizing work caused the opposite. Empowerment and external support positively influenced healthcare quality, whereas lack of resources, managerial support, or training had a negative influence. Suggestions to improve quality include the role of QCs, external supervision, and centralization of the QCs' network.

Conclusion:
Appointing QCs alone does not guarantee quality improvement. It is essential to ensure that QCs have the appropriate skills, tools, management support, and open communication channels. Further research is required to evaluate the effects of sex and age on QCs' performance.
Syndecan-1 Levels and Early Positive Fluid Balance Are Associated With Disease Severity in Acute Pancreatitis
Authors: Turunen Antti , Kuuliala Krista , Kuuliala Antti , Puolakkainen Pauli , Kylänpää Leena , Hästbacka Johanna , Lindström Outi 
Published: May 2024

ObjectiveThe aim of the study is to study fluid balance and endothelial glycocalyx degradation, reflected by syndecan-1, and heparan sulfate (HS) levels, in early stages of acute pancreatitis (AP).Materials and MethodsThis study comprised of 210 AP patients (104 mild, 53 moderately severe, 17 severe). Blood was sampled within 72 hours from the onset of symptoms, and plasma syndecan-1 and HS levels were determined using ELISA. Fluid balance up to sampling and up to 4 days was determined retrospectively from medical records.ResultsSyndecan-1 levels predicted severe AP (SAP) in receiver operating characteristic analysis [area under curve 0.699, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.546 to 0.851,P= 0.021]. Increasing AP severity was associated with higher intravenous fluid intake and lower urine output. In multivariate binary logistic regression analysis, positive fluid balance up to sampling [odds ratio (OR) 1.05 per 100 ml, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.11,P= 0.010] and higher Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score at sampling (OR 1.48, 95% CI 1.20 to 1.83,P< 0.001) were independently associated with severe AP, while syndecan-1 level was not.ConclusionsSAP is associated with high positive fluid balance in the early stages of treatment. Although increased in SAP, syndecan-1 was not independently associated with SAP when controlling for fluid balance and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score.
AHR activation accelerates the resolution of TGF-β1 induced fibroblast activation and promotes alveolar type 1 cell regeneration in alveolar organoids
Authors: Hagan Andrew S. , Williams Scott , Mathison Casey J. N. , Yan Shanshan , Nguyen Bao , Federe Glenn C. , Kuzu Guray , Siefert Joseph C. , Hampton Janice , Chichkov Victor , Barnes S. Whitney , King Frederick J. , Taylor Brandon , Walker John R. , Zhao Rui , Elliott Jimmy , Phillips Dean P. , Fang Bin , Decker Rebekah S. 
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACTRegeneration of the alveolar epithelium is necessary to restore tissue architecture and gas exchange capabilities in chronic pulmonary diseases such as fibrosing interstitial lung disease. While it is known alveolar type 2 (AT2) cells give rise to alveolar type 1 (AT1) cells to repair the alveolar epithelium after injury, methods to promote this process under pathological settings are poorly understood. Here, using a complex 3D organoid culture with TGF-β1 dependent impaired AT1 spheroid formation, we performed a high-throughput screen (HTS) with ∼16,800 compounds to identify small molecules that increase number of AT1 spheroids. Longitudinal single cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) revealed that DB-11-BE87 increased AT1 regeneration by reducing TGF-β1 induced fibroblast activation, concurrently with AHR activation in those cells. These studies highlight a novel HTS system to identify factors that can promote AT1 differentiation and suggest AHR activation as a method to counteract pathological TGF-β1 signaling in pulmonary disease.
Ambulosono-Enhanced Ankle Rotation Training Leads to Significant Gains in Balance Among Healthy Adults
Authors: Hu Bin , Raza Muhammad Farhan , Patel Dhruvil , Wasif Shahryar , Chomiak Taylor 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe ankle joint, a pivotal element in lower limb-ground interactions, plays a critical role in maintaining gait and balance. In this study, we utilized the Ambulosono device—a sensor- based, music-contingent digital tool designed to assist and monitor ankle training—to investigate the effects of ankle rotation training on functional balance. We measured the durations of the single-leg stand test (SLST) under eyes-closed conditions in a cohort of healthy young adults. Comparisons of pre- and post-training SLST durations were made between the trained and untrained legs within the same subjects. Our findings demonstrated a substantial increase in the SLST durations ipsilateral to the trained ankles, while the untrained ankles in the control legs showed no significant changes. This enhancement in balance function was observed to persist for several hours post-training.
HumanAPOEallelic variants suppress the formation of diffuse and fibrillar Aβ deposits relative to mouseApoein transgenic mouse models of Alzheimer amyloidosis
Authors: Xu Guilian , Sacilotto Patricia , Gorski Carmelina , Bali Parul , Fromholt Susan , Vo Quan , McFarland Karen N , Lu Qing , Borchelt David R , Chakrabarty Paramita 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackgroundApolipoprotein E (apoE) modulates the deposition of amyloid β (Aβ) aggregates in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in an isoform-dependent manner. In transgenic mouse models of AD-amyloidosis, replacing mouseApoealleles with humanAPOEvariants suppresses fibrillar Aβ deposits. In the PD-APP transgenic mouse model, deletion of theApoegene led to selective reduction of fibrillar deposits with increased diffuse deposits. This finding suggested that apoE may have differential effects on different types of amyloid pathology.MethodsHere, we investigated the interaction between the type of Aβ pathology in the brain and human apoE isoforms in different transgenic mouse models.ResultsIn the APPsi model that develops predominantly diffuse Aβ plaques late in life, we determined that replacing mouseApoewith humanAPOE3orAPOE4genes potently suppressed diffuse amyloid formation, with apoE3 exhibiting a greater activity relative to apoE4. Relative to apoE4, apoE3 appeared to suppress Aβ deposition in the cerebral vasculature. In a second cohort, we accelerated the deposition of diffuse Aβ pathology by seeding, finding that seeded APPsi mice harboringAPOE4orAPOE3developed equal burdens of diffuse parenchymal Aβ. Finally, in the recently developed SAA-APP model that has a mix of dense-core and fibrous Aβ plaques, we found that replacing mouse apoE with human apoE suppressed deposition significantly, with the amyloid burden following the trend ofApoe>>APOE4> APOE3∼APOE2. In the SAA-APP and seeded APPsi models, we found evidence of apoE protein associated with Aβ plaques.ConclusionsOverall, these observations demonstrate a capacity for human apoE to suppress the deposition of both diffuse and fibrillar-cored deposits, relative to mouse apoE. Notably, in the seeded paradigm, the suppressive activity of human apoE3 and apoE4 appeared to be overwhelmed. Taken together, this study demonstrates thatAPOEgenotype influences the deposition of both cored-fibrillar and diffuse amyloid.
Long-range magnetic order in
CePdAl3
enabled by orthorhombic deformation
Authors: Stekiel M. , Čermák P. , Franz C. , Meven M. , Legut D. , Simeth W. , Hansen U. B. , Fåk B. , Weber S. , Schönmann R. , Kumar V. , Nemkovski K. , Deng H. , Bauer A. , Pfleiderer C. , Schneidewind A. 
Published: May 2024

We investigate the effect of structural deformation on the magnetic properties of orthorhombic CePdAl3 in relation to its tetragonal polymorph. Utilizing x-ray and neutron diffraction, we establish that the crystal structure has the Cmcm space-group symmetry and exhibits pseudotetragonal twinning. According to density functional calculations, the tetragonal-orthorhombic deformation mechanism has its grounds in the relatively small free enthalpy difference between the polymorphs, allowing either phase to be quenched, and fully accounts for the twinned microstructure of the orthorhombic phase. Neutron diffraction measurements show that orthorhombic CePdAl3 establishes long-range magnetic order below TN=5.29(5) K characterized by a collinear, antiferromagnetic arrangement of magnetic moments. Magnetic anisotropies of orthorhombic CePdAl3 arise from strong spin-orbit coupling as evidenced by the crystal-field splitting of the 4f multiplet, fully characterised with neutron spectroscopy. We discuss the potential mechanism of frustration posed by antiferromagnetic interactions between nearest neighbors in the tetragonal phase, which hinders the formation of long-range magnetic order in tetragonal CePdAl3. We propose that orthorhombic deformation releases the frustration and allows for long-range magnetic order.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Resistance to persuasion as a maladaptive coping response to anti Covid-19 message: a protection motivation theory perspective
Authors: Boukamcha Fayçal 
Published: May 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to shed light on the protection motivation theory’s (PMT) maladaptive coping response to anti-Covid-19 preventive persuasive appeals. PMT is based on coping appraisal that may lead to either an adaptive- or a maladaptive coping response. It has been suggested that the maladaptive coping response is not sufficiently investigated and can be represented by individuals’ resistance to anti-Covid-19 persuasive messages. It has been also supposed that resistance is predicted and modeled through a set of cognitive, affective and individual factors such as information processing style, fear arousal, gender and coping self-efficacy.

Design/methodology/approach
An experiment and a survey were conducted online on a random sample of 290 individuals. The sample was divided into two groups, each of which was exposed to an anti-Covid-19 persuasive message.

Findings
The findings show that resistance to anti-Covid-19 persuasion is not directly predicted by the individual’s exposure to the message, but channeled through an affective and a cognitive process. It was also reported that resistance is predicted by both the reflective and the nonreflective information processing styles, which are in turn predicted by a high versus a low fear arousal. Fear arousal level was shown to be moderated by gender and coping self-efficacy.

Originality/value
This research brings additional insight to the PMT in so far that it highlights the maladaptive coping response through resistance to persuasion in a pandemic context.
CEO gender, critical mass of board gender diversity and ESG performance: UK evidence
Authors: Al-Shaer Habiba , Zaman Mahbub , Albitar Khaldoon 
Published: May 2024

PurposeThis study investigates the relationship between CEO leadership, gender homophily and corporate environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance. We also investigate whether it is essential to have a critical mass of women directors on the board to create a significant power of gender diversity in leadership positions.Design/methodology/approachOur study is based on firms listed on the London Stock Exchange (FTSE-All-Share) from 2011 to 2019. CEO characteristics and other board variables were collected from BoardEx, and ESG data, and other related variables were collected from Eikon database.FindingsWe find a critical mass of female directors contributes to ESG performance suggesting that token representation of female directors on boards limits their effectiveness. We do not find support for the gender homophily perspective, our findings suggest that the effectiveness of female CEOs does not depend on the existence of a critical mass of female directors. Female directors and female CEOs are less likely to be associated with ESG activities when firms experience poor financial performance. We also find that younger female CEOs have a positive impact on ESG performance. Furthermore, we find female CEOs with shorter tenure are more likely to improve ESG performance. Overall, our findings suggest a substitutional effect between having female CEOs and gender diverse boards.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the debate on gender homophily in the boardroom and how that may affect ESG practices. It also complements existing academic research on female leadership and ESG performance and has important implications for senior management and policymakers.
An empirical investigation on the use of building handover information and its quality requirements for commercial building management
Authors: Chang Janet , Parlikad Ajith 
Published: May 2024

Purpose
Global building failures, such as the Grenfell Tower fire in London, UK, emphasised the need for trustworthy building handover information for safety. However, a notable gap remains in understanding how reliable handover information can ensure the safety of occupants. This study aims to investigate the use and essential quality of handover information to understand the effects of the quality of information on the management of commercial buildings.

Design/methodology/approach
Ninety-four participants from nine organisations who regularly use handover information to manage multiple commercial buildings participated in the semi-structured interviews. Qualitative thematic coding using interview transcripts was performed to identify the utilisation of handover information and its quality requirements.

Findings
This study reveals that as-built drawings and product information are predominately used to fulfil statutory obligations, comply with the organisation’s internal policies, evaluate asset valuation and make informed decisions about capital investment and operating expenses. The quality dimensions of “accuracy”, “timeliness”, and “completeness” are preferred in combination to achieve desired outcomes.

Research limitations/implications
This study focused on using handover information in the management of commercial buildings. However, its results can offer valuable perspectives for improving its application across various sectors in the built environment.

Practical implications
The findings affirm the need for quality handover information for safety, compliance and efficient management in commercial buildings.

Originality/value
This research significantly contributes to the current knowledge of handover information in the building sector. Given the study findings, building owners are equipped to define specific handover information requirements and quality requisites.
The impact of digital platforms on the creativity of remote workers through the mediating role of explicit and tacit knowledge sharing
Authors: Bhatti Sabeen Hussain , Gavurova Beata , Ahmed Adeel , Marcone Maria Rosaria , Santoro Gabriele 
Published: May 2024

Purpose
Remote working has brought forward many challenges for employees as the phenomenon is still new for most employees across the globe. Some of these challenges may be addressed by the recent adoption of digital technologies by organizations. In this vein, our study explores the impact of digital platform capability on the creativity of employees through the mediating mechanism of explicit and tacit knowledge sharing.

Design/methodology/approach
The data were gathered from higher education institutes (HEIs) in a developing country, Pakistan which recently saw a major disruption during the Covid-19 pandemic. The proposed hypotheses were tested through Structural Equational Modeling (SEM) and the results confirmed our hypotheses.

Findings
The findings confirmed that the digital platform capabilities impact both tacit and explicit knowledge sharing among these remote employees. Likewise, the results also supported the mediating role of both explicit and tacit knowledge sharing on the creativity of these remote workers.

Originality/value
Our results are significant as they confirm the impact of digitalization on remote workers’ creativity predisposition. We thus advance the academic debate on the problems of knowledge sharing in remote working. We prove that digital capabilities outweigh the challenges created due to new forms of work driven by the pandemic. It further highlights the important areas to focus on while planning human resource policies in the new normal.
The factors impact on the cashless payment behavior: the IPA model approach
Authors: Dinh Doan Van 
Published: May 2024

Purpose
In the context of the Covid-19 pandemic and the trend in industrial development 4.0, the problem is how to conduct transactions of goods and services in the market using cashless payment in Vietnam, as in developed countries. This study aims to investigate, analyze and evaluate the factors affecting cashless payment behavior in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Design/methodology/approach
The QR codes are used for payments because many factors affect the behavior of cashless payments made using electronic payment tools, including QR code tools. To achieve this goal, this study applied behavioral theory and the importance-performance analysis (IPA) model to measure service quality based on the difference between customer opinions on the importance and performance level of service providers’ targets. Survey results were obtained from 111 people living in HCMC, Vietnam, including 47 men and 64 women, which was a survey for 15 criteria.

Findings
According to the IPA results of the first quadrant, managers should focus on allocating their resources toward improving their performance across five key criteria. These criteria are crucial for meeting customers’ expectations and include factors such as product quality, responsiveness to customer queries or complaints, delivery times, pricing and customer service. In addition, the second quadrant of the IPA highlights another set of five criteria that perform well and are essential to the success of the business. These criteria could consist of customer loyalty, employee satisfaction, profitability, market share and innovation

Originality/value
These results provide a basis for solutions and recommendations for managers to refer to and apply consistent practices. Therefore, this study examines the cashless payment in Vietnam. Empirical results offer solutions to financial technology policy, marketing policy, cashless payment services and technology, which can help managers provide online payments using QR codes and contribute to monetary policy solutions.
Study of adoption of artificial intelligence technology-driven natural large language model-based chatbots by firms for customer service interaction
Authors: Bhattacharyya Som Sekhar 
Published: May 2024

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to comprehend the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technology-driven natural large language model (LLM)-based chatbots by customers.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative research study method was conducted. This was to explore managerial perspectives towards consumer centric technology adoption of AI plus LLM-based chatbots. This was specifically for AI-driven natural LLM-based chatbots services. The author conducted conducted in-depth personal interviews with 32 experts of digital content AI + LLM chatbot services. Thematic content analysis was undertaken to analyse the data.FindingsThe advent of natural language processing tools driven by AI technology chatbots has altered human-firm interaction. The research findings indicated that the push-pull-mooring (PPM) factors captured the phenomenon in the most comprehensive way. A total of 15 key factors influencing the adoption of AI technology-driven natural LLM-based chatbots by customers during firm customer interaction were identified in this study by the author. The thematic content analysis unraveled insights regarding transformed consumer adoptions towards AI-driven LLM-based chatbots by means of the PPM framework factors.Research limitations/implicationsThe empirical research investigation contributed to the literature on the PPM theoretical framework. This was specifically in the context of adoption of AI technology-driven natural LLM-based chatbots by customers during firm customer interaction.Practical implicationsThe research study insights would help managers to restructure and reconfigure their organizational processes. This would neccessiated a shift in firm-customer interactions as demanded because of the availability of AI technology-driven natural LLM-based chatbots by customers.Originality/valueThis research study was based upon the PPM theoretical framework. This study provided a unique analysis of the altered firm customer interaction needs and requirements. This was one of the first studies that applied the framework of PPM theory regarding the adoption of AI technology-driven natural LLM-based chatbots by customers.