bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Metformin Eliminates Lymphedema in Mice by Alleviating Inflammation and Fibrosis: Implications for Human Therapy
Authors: Wei Miaomiao , Wang Liangliang , Liu Xin , Deng Yaping , Yang Sanhong , Pan Wenjie , Zhang Xiaoshan , Xu Guangchao , Xiao Shune , Deng Chengliang 
Published: February 2024

Background:
Secondary lymphedema is a chronic, disabling disease affecting more than 50% of patients with cancer and lacking effective pharmacologic treatment even for early to middle disease stages. Metformin reportedly exerts anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic effects and is safe, with minimal side effects. The authors investigated the role of metformin in lymphedema mouse models and examined underlying molecular mechanisms.

Methods:
Male C57BL/6 mice (6 to 8 weeks old; n = 15/group) received metformin (300 mg/kg/day) by gavage on day 3 after lymphedema surgery; saline and sham groups were administered the same volume of saline. Hindlimb circumference and tail volume were monitored every 2 days. On day 28, samples were collected for histologic assessment, Western blotting, and reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis of inflammation, fibrosis, and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) expression. AMPK activity was assayed in patients with secondary lymphedema (International Society of Lymphology stage II) and controls following strict inclusion criteria.

Results:
Compared with the saline group, the metformin group exhibited hindlimb circumference and tail volume reduced by 469.70% and 305.18%, respectively, on day 28. Dermal thickness was reduced by 38.27% and 72.57% in the hindlimbs and tail, respectively. Metformin decreased CD4+ T-cell infiltration by 19.73%, and decreased expression levels of interleukin-4, interleukin-13, interleukin-17, and transforming growth factor–β1. In addition, it lowered collagen I deposition by 33.18%. Compared with the saline group, the number of lymphatic vessels increased by 229.96% in the metformin group. Both the saline group mice and patients with lymphedema showed reduced AMPK activity; metformin increased p-AMPK expression by 106.12%.

Conclusion:
Metformin alleviated inflammation and fibrosis and increased lymphangiogenesis in lymphedema mouse models by activating AMPK signaling.

Clinical Relevance Statement:
Metformin provides preliminary evidence as a potential therapeutic option for lymphedema.
Pluvicto-Induced 18F-PSMA PET Bone Flare
Authors: Wang Xiaofei , Martin Daniel , Hogan Thomas , Veselicky Kenneth 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
A 79-year-old man with a history of metastatic prostate cancer was initially treated with Eligard and switched to relugolix in 2021. The 2022 bone scan presented superscan and extensive osseous metastatic lesions; some had intense PSMA uptake on the initial PSMA PET scan without nodal or visceral metastatic lesions. We treated him with Pluvicto and relugolix. The intermediate PSMA scan demonstrated prominent bone marrow PSMA uptake. However, PSA decreased 58.5%. We hypothesized that the patient might have a bone flare. The final PSMA scan confirmed our hypothesis. Based on our knowledge, this is the first case of Pluvicto-induced bone flare.
Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen PET/CT Detection of Prostate Cancer Metastasis to Thyroid and Cricoid Cartilages
Authors: Eichhorn Joshua , Nelson Nadia , Raichandani Surbhi , Sesler Aaron , Palot Manzil Fathima Fijula 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) PET/CT has revolutionized the imaging of prostate cancer. Historically, prostate cancer metastasis to thyroid and cricoid cartilages was thought to be exceedingly rare, with only a few reported cases in the literature. Prostate cancer metastasis to the laryngeal cartilages was detected in 4 of 221 patients who underwent imaging with 18F-PSMA (Pylarify) or 68Ga-PSMA (Illuccix) PET/CT for initial staging of high-risk prostate cancer or restaging evaluation in the setting of biochemical recurrence from April 2022 through October 2023. The increased sensitivity and specificity of PSMA PET/CT allow for the detection of previously occult metastatic disease.
Rotation of a Part of the Composite Flap for Simultaneous Gonion Reduction and Malar Augmentation During Rhytidectomy in Asians
Authors: Han Chung Hee 
Published: February 2024

Background
The desired facial shape that Asians aim to achieve through plastic surgery differs from that of westerners.

Objectives
The author facilitates facial volume deflation by using the rotation of a part of the composite flap to the malar area resulting in volumetric augmentation during rhytidectomy; simultaneously, a volumetric reduction was implemented in the gonion.

Methods
Extended deep plane rhytidectomy with the rotation of a part of the composite flap was performed in 49 patients, whereas extended deep plane rhytidectomy without the rotation of a part of the composite flap was performed in 20 patients. For the results, the satisfaction survey of the surgery was conducted in all patients and by 2 surgeons during a follow-up visit 12 months later. To assess the surgical outcome objectively, the author used the Allergan photometric midface volume deficit scale to measure the midface volume. The midface contour and degree of projection were analyzed using lateral view photographs of the patients. The measurement of segment CM (distance between the lateral canthus and mouth corner) and segment MA (distance from segment CM to the most protruding malar area) was performed.

Results
The patients who underwent extended deep plane rhytidectomy with the rotation of a part of the composite flap reported higher overall satisfaction and achieved more favorable results, as evaluated by the 2 aesthetic surgeons (P < 0.05). The scores on the Allergan photometric midface volume deficit scale showed a significant increase before and after the surgery in both groups (P < 0.05), also as evaluated by the 2 aesthetic surgeons. However, the change in scores was found to be higher in the extended deep plane rhytidectomy with the rotation of a part of the composite flap group. The midface contour and degree of projection showed an increase of 20.6% on the right face and 22.7% on the left face, respectively (P < 0.001).

Conclusion
Using the rotation of a part of the composite flap during rhytidectomy resulted in overall satisfactory outcomes for all patients. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that the use of this surgical method is beneficial and effective.
Three-dimensional checkerboard spin structure on a breathing pyrochlore lattice
Authors: Dronova Margarita G. , Petříček Václav , Morgan Zachary , Ye Feng , Silevitch Daniel M. , Feng Yejun 
Published: February 2024

The standard approach to realize a spin-liquid state is through magnetically frustrated states, relying on ingredients such as the lattice geometry, dimensionality, and magnetic interaction type of the spins. While Heisenberg spins on a pyrochlore lattice with only antiferromagnetic nearest-neighbor interactions are theoretically proven disordered, spins in real systems generally include longer-range interactions. The spatial correlations at longer distances typically stabilize a long-range order rather than enhancing a spin-liquid state. Both states can, however, be destroyed by short-range static correlations introduced by chemical disorder. Here, using disorder-free specimens with a clear long-range antiferromagnetic order, we refine the spin structure of the Heisenberg spinel ZnFe2O4 through neutron magnetic diffraction. The unique wave vector (1,0,12) leads to a spin structure that can be viewed as alternatively stacked ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic tetrahedra in a three-dimensional checkerboard form. Stable coexistence of these opposing types of clusters is enabled by the bipartite breathing pyrochlore crystal structure, leading to a second-order phase transition at 10 K. The diffraction intensity of ZnFe2O4 is an exact complement to the inelastic scattering intensity of several chromate spinel systems which are regarded as model classical spin liquids. Our results challenge this attribution, and suggest instead of the six-spin ring mode, spin excitations in chromate spinels are closely related to the (1,0,12) type of spin order and the four-spin ferromagnetic cluster locally at one tetrahedron.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Gluelump masses and mass splittings from SU(3) lattice gauge theory
Authors: Herr Jannis , Schlosser Carolin , Wagner Marc 
Published: February 2024

We compute gluelump masses and mass differences using SU(3) lattice gauge theory. We study states with total angular momentum up to J=3, parity P=+,−, and charge conjugation C=+,−. Computations on four ensembles with rather fine lattice spacings in the range from 0.040 to 0.093 fm allow continuum extrapolations of gluelump mass differences. We complement existing results on hybrid static potentials with the obtained gluelump masses, which represent the limit of vanishing quark-antiquark separation. We also discuss the conversion of lattice gluelump masses to the renormalon subtracted scheme, which is e.g. important for studies of heavy hybrid mesons in the Born-Oppenheimer approximation.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Antecedents of students' intention to be sustainable accountants: evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Ratnaningsih Stephana Dyah Ayu , Ghozali Imam , Harto Puji 
Published: February 2024

PurposeThe paper aims to examine Indonesian accounting students’ intention to become sustainable accountants (ISAs) using a modified theory of reasoning action model.Design/methodology/approachPrimary data were collected from 239 respondents from five reputable universities in Semarang, Indonesia, using a structured questionnaire. A random sampling technique was employed and used in selecting respondents. The data were then analyzed using smart PLS (version 3.2.9) to obtain the final results.FindingsThe results show university sustainability (US) and attitudes toward sustainability (ATS) affect students' intentions to become ISAs. Knowledge has no direct correlation with students' intention to become ISAs. Path analysis shows a significant correlation between US and students' knowledge, attitudes and intentions regarding sustainability.Originality/valueThis is different from previous studies, which only focused on factors influencing students' intentions to pay attention to sustainability. This study focuses on prospective accountants because, in the future, they will be the technical executors of reporting using path analysis. This study further analyzes the relationship between existing antecedent variables. The results show that sustainability at the university is a variable that can influence all other variables.
The impact of subjective consumer knowledge on consumer behavioral loyalty through psychological involvement and perceived service quality: sports clubs
Authors: Hu Jianping , Ye Xinjiang , Gu Shengyu 
Published: February 2024

PurposeThe study advances an enhanced model encompassing psychological involvement, denoted as the psychological continuum model (PCM) and perceived customer service quality as intermediaries in the association between subjective customer knowledge (SCK) and behavioral loyalty. The purpose of this study is to assess the mediating role of psychological engagement and consumers' perceived service quality in the relationship between SCK and behavioral loyalty among members of nonprofit sports service organizations. Additionally, the study aims to examine the impact of membership duration on the relationship between consumer knowledge and behavioral loyalty.Design/methodology/approachThe study used a quantitative research design, and primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire from 527 members of nonprofit Chinese sports clubs who were selected using a simple random sampling technique. A 5-point Likert scale questionnaire was developed to measure all constructs in the intended research model. The suitability of the measurement model was analyzed by performing confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to analyze the data using AMOS-24.FindingsThe results of the overall direct effect indicate a significant influence of subjective knowledge on perceived service quality, perceived service quality significantly and positively influences psychological engagement; psychological engagement was found to be an important predictor of consumer behavioral loyalty.Originality/valueThe results offer information for nonprofit sports club (NPSC) managers who seek to increase the attractiveness and retention of their clubs' members by establishing the importance of subjective consumer knowledge.
Industry 4.0 as an enabler of sustainability for small and medium enterprises
Authors: Santos André de Mendonça , Becker Adriano Machado , Ayala Néstor Fabian , Sant’Anna Ângelo Márcio Oliveira 
Published: February 2024

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to investigate the potential impact of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) digital technologies on promoting sustainability in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within developing economies such as Brazil. Additionally, we present a comprehensive framework that consolidates this correlation.Design/methodology/approachQualitative research was conducted through semi-structured interviews with leaders of SMEs to identify the specific challenges in achieving sustainability. Additionally, interviews were conducted with technology provider firms to evaluate the existing solutions available to SMEs. The interview results were analyzed, and technological solutions were proposed through a focus group session involving four experts in I4.0. These proposed solutions were then compared with the offerings provided by the technology providers. Based on this, a second round of meetings was conducted to gather feedback from the SMEs.FindingsThe findings of this study confirm the feasibility of implementing I4.0 and sustainable practices in SMEs. However, it is crucial to tailor the technologies to the specific circumstances of SMEs. The study presents propositions on how specific applications of technology can address the economic, environmental and social demands of SMEs. Furthermore, a framework is proposed, emphasizing the integration of smart technologies as essential components across sustainability dimensions.Originality/valueThis study makes a significant contribution to the current body of literature as it pioneers the examination of the relationship between I4.0 technologies and sustainability, focusing specifically on SMEs in a developing country context.
Sustainability drivers of fast-moving consumer goods supply chains: a multi-method study
Authors: Prashar Anupama , Sunder M. Vijaya 
Published: February 2024

PurposeThis study responds to the calls from the literature on identifying interactions among the sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) drivers, which influence focal firms’ SSCM decisions. It also determines how the effect of SSCM drivers differs across the upstream and downstream supply chains (SCs) entities of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCGs) companies.Design/methodology/approachWe employ a multi-method design encompassing three studies: study 1 (multiple-case study), study 2 (quantitative survey), and study 3 (multiple-criteria decision-making or MCDM modeling).FindingsThe results show that the external drivers such as customer pressure, competition, and supplier pressure and internal drivers such as top management commitment interact to influence the adoption of SSCM practices, and this interaction is diverse across upstream and downstream SC entities of the FMCG sector. The study provides empirical evidence of relationships among the SSCM drivers, which influence SSCM decisions.Originality/valueUnderstanding these interactions will help managers derive strategies to manage the overall SSCM ecosystem and recognize the multiplier effects of upstream to downstream and vice versa.
Occupational health risk assessment of PC production-caused pollution based on damage assessment and cyclic mitigation model
Authors: Dong Zhiyu , Qin Ruize , Zou Ping , Yao Xin , Cui Peng , Zhang Fan , Yang Yizhou 
Published: February 2024

PurposeThe occupational health risk associated with the production of prefabricated concrete components is often overlooked. This paper will use a damage assessment and cyclic mitigation (DACM) model to provide individualized exposure risk assessment and corresponding mitigation management measures for workers who are being exposed.Design/methodology/approachThe DACM model is proposed based on the concept of life cycle assessment (LCA). The model uses Monte-Carlo simulation for uncertainty risk assessment, followed by quantitative damage assessment using disability-adjusted life year (DALY). Lastly, sensitivity analysis is used to identify the parameters with the greatest impact on health risks.FindingsThe results show that the dust concentration is centered around the mean, and the fitting results are close to normal distribution, so the mean value can be used to carry out the calculation of risk. However, calculations using the DACM model revealed that there are still some work areas at risk. DALY damage is most severe in concrete production area. Meanwhile, the inhalation rate (IR), exposure duration (ED), exposure frequency (EF) and average exposure time (AT) showed greater impacts based on the sensitivity analysis.Originality/valueBased on the comparison, the DACM model can determine that the potential occupational health risk of prefabricated concrete component (PC) factory and the risk is less than that of on-site construction. It synthesizes field research and simulation to form the entire assessment process into a case-base system with the depth of the cycle, which allows the model to be continuously adjusted to reduce the occupational health damage caused by production pollution exposure.
Inequality beneath the surface: a Belgian case study on structural discrimination in the workplace and the role of organizational structure, culture and policies
Authors: De Coninck David , Verhulst Laure 
Published: February 2024

PurposeThe context of a long-standing research tradition, discrimination has emerged as a critical factor contributing to inequalities within the labor market. While existing studies have primarily focused on overt discrimination during the recruitment and selection process, influenced by biases, attitudes, or stereotypes, there remains a significant knowledge gap regarding discrimination within the workplace and its underlying structural dimensions. This article aims to address this gap by examining the impact of organizational culture, structure and policies on workplace discrimination, with a particular emphasis on women and ethnic minorities.Design/methodology/approachUtilizing a case study strategy centered around a Belgian branch of a multinational professional service agency, data was gathered through ten semi-structured in-depth interviews conducted with employees representing various organizational levels.FindingsThe findings reveal that organizational culture, structure and policies may pose inherent risks in perpetuating discrimination throughout individuals' professional trajectories. Furthermore, it becomes apparent that, albeit often unconscious, these elements exhibit biases against women and ethnic minorities.Social implicationsGiven the unintentional nature of structural discrimination, it is crucial to foster increased awareness and understanding of these dynamics.Originality/valueThe originality of this research article lies in its focus on addressing a critical knowledge gap in the existing research tradition on discrimination in the labor market. While previous studies have primarily concentrated on overt discrimination during recruitment and selection, this article delves into the often overlooked area of discrimination within the workplace itself. It explores the intricate interplay of organizational culture, structure and policies in perpetuating discrimination, particularly against women and ethnic minorities. By utilizing a case study approach within a multinational professional service agency in Belgium, the research uncovers hidden biases and unconscious elements contributing to structural discrimination. This emphasis on understanding unintentional discrimination adds a novel dimension to the discourse on workplace inequalities.
The impact of the knowledge economy on the financing constraints of firms: within and between country effects
Authors: Mertzanis Charilaos , Houcine Asma 
Published: February 2024

PurposeThis study employs firm-level data to evaluate how the knowledge economy impacts the financing constraints of businesses across 106 low- and middle-income nations, focusing on the influence of technological transformation on corporate financing choices.Design/methodology/approachThe research centers on privately held, unlisted firms and examines the distinct effects of knowledge at both the within-country and between-country levels using a panel dataset. Rigorous sensitivity and endogeneity analyses are conducted to ensure the reliability of the findings.FindingsThe findings indicate that greater levels of the knowledge economy correlate with reduced financing constraints for firms. However, this effect varies depending on the location within a country and across different geographical regions. Firms situated in larger urban centers and more innovative regions reap the most significant benefits from the knowledge economy when seeking external funding. Conversely, firms in smaller cities, rural areas and regions characterized by structural and institutional inefficiencies in knowledge generation experience fewer advantages.Originality/valueThe impact of knowledge exhibits variability not only within and among countries but also between poor and affluent developing nations, as well as between larger and smaller countries. The knowledge effect on firms' access to external finance is influenced by factors such as financial openness and development, educational quality, technological absorption capabilities and agglomeration conditions within each country.
SMEs’ innovation and government support during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Nguyen Hang Thu , Vu Tra Thi Dan , Nguyen Hiep Manh , Nguyen Dung Bui Phuong 
Published: February 2024

PurposeThere is a need for research examining how governments and firms responded to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. This study investigates the interdependence between governments and innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) during the pandemic in relation to the dynamic capabilities and resource dependence theories.Design/methodology/approachWe use World Bank survey data collected immediately before and after the COVID-19 outbreak and a generalized structural equation model to examine the mediating role of government support in the relationship between firm innovation, resilience and survival.FindingsInnovative SMEs exhibited higher resilience and a better chance of survival during the pandemic, partly due to attracting more government support.Originality/valueThis study offers a novel understanding of the government’s role in supporting innovative SMEs during the pandemic. The findings have implications for how government support policies can limit the deadweight effect and the substitution effect.