bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Appraisal of hand value of denim fabrics
Authors: Ahirwar Meenakshi , Behera Bijoya Kumar 
Published: April 2023

Purpose
Denim fabric has become a wardrobe staple due to its versatility to be worn in a variety of fashions. This paper aims to study denim fabrics to understand their unique hand by developing a hand evaluation system using computational method. Also, the effect of various washes was studied on the hand and surface morphology of denim fabrics.

Design/methodology/approach
Five different denim samples were manufactured with various washing treatments. The Kawabata Evaluation System was used to measure the low stress mechanical properties. Computation method was used to develop hand equations using multiple regression technique in the MS Excel software. The correlation coefficient analysis was done to determine the authenticity of the developed equations. Five primary hand attributes such as softness, smoothness, fullness, flexibility and stretchability were shortlisted by a panel of judges that influence the fabric handle.

Findings
The correlation coefficient between subjective and computational total hand values with thermal properties and without thermal properties was 0.88 and 0.85, respectively. The enzymatic wash fabric has the highest total hand value followed by the acid, bleach and stone-washed fabrics.

Originality/value
Although the hand evaluation system is available for conventional textiles like suiting and shirting fabrics, the method to predict fabric hand of non-conventional textiles such as denim fabrics remains an unexplored topic. The stresses acting on denim fabrics are completely different. Therefore, to the best of the author’s knowledge, a novel attempt has been made in this research work to develop a computational model to predict the total hand value of denim fabrics.
Additive manufacturing of flame retardant polyamide 12 with high mechanical properties from regenerated powder
Authors: Yu Suzhu , Tan Aloysius , Tan Wei Ming , Deng Xinying , Tan Cher Lin , Wei Jun 
Published: April 2023

Purpose
This paper aims to develop flame-retardant (FR) polyamide 12 (PA12) nanocomposite from regenerated powder via selective laser sintering (SLS), an additive manufacturing technique.

Design/methodology/approach
First, the morphology, processibility, thermal and mechanical properties of PA12 regenerated powder, consisting of 50 wt% new and 50 wt% recycled powder, as well as corresponding printed specimens, were evaluated to characterize the effects of previous SLS processing. Second, flame-retardant PA12 was developed by incorporating both single and binary halogen-free flame retardants into the regenerated powder.

Findings
It was found that the printed specimens from regenerated powder had much higher tensile and impact properties compared to specimens made from new powder, which is attributed to better particulate fusion and coalescence realized in higher temperature SLS printing. The effect of FRs on thermal, mechanical and flame retardant properties of the PA12 composites/nanocomposites was investigated systematically. It was found that the nanoclay, as a synergist, improved both flame-retardant and mechanical properties of PA12. UL94 standard rating of V-0 was achieved for the printed nanocomposite by incorporating 1 wt% nanoclay into 15 wt% phosphinates FR. Moreover, on average, the tensile and impact strength of the nanocomposite were increased by 26.13% and 17.09%, respectively, in XY, YZ and Z printing orientations as compared to the equivalent flame retardant composite with 20 wt% of the phosphinates FR.

Originality/value
This paper fulfills the need to develop flame retardant parts via SLS technology with waste feedstock. It also addresses the challenge of developing flame retardant materials without obviously compromising the mechanical properties by making use of the synergistic effect of nanoclay and organic phosphinates.
Luxury yachting in the Fiji Islands: a stakeholders' perspective
Authors: Gupta Vikas , Roy Hiran 
Published: April 2023

PurposeThis study explored the experiences and perceptions of stakeholders concerning luxury yachting in the Fiji Islands. It also revealed the facilities provided on luxury yachts, significant challenges faced by stakeholders in the yachting business, major luxury yacht operators and the safety measures in place for the patrons/consumers of luxury yachting.Design/methodology/approachIt employed an exploratory qualitative methodology that incorporated 16 in-depth semi-structured face-to-face interviews with stakeholders in the luxury yachting businesses via contact with superyacht agents. The interview participants for this research were selected based on a non-random sampling technique in the major marinas of the Fiji Islands (i.e. Port Denarau Marina, Copra Shed Marina, Savusavu, Royal Suva Yacht club, and Vuda marina).FindingsResults revealed that the services/facilities provided on luxury yachts are state-of-the-art; however, there is a need to integrate luxury yachting with more personalized, creative, unique and innovative experiences. Findings also suggest the need for government funding for the redevelopment/renovation of some ports and provide skill-based training for yacht employees.Originality/valueThis study contributes to filling some of the gaps in the luxury yachting literature in Fiji and sheds light on stakeholders' perceptions of the amenities offered at marinas and ports, significant challenges in the yachting industry and safety measures in place for patrons.
Australia's gambling epidemic: The role of Covid‐19 support payment
Authors: Adabor Opoku 
Published: April 2023

AbstractCovid‐19 exposed the whole world to numerous challenges ranging from health to economic recession. Nevertheless, it also impeded gambling activities. Here, we consider the relationship between Covid‐19 support payment and gambling. Gambling is considered leisure for many game players but leads to multiple social and economic harms. This has led to a growing body of literature examining the factors that influence gambling. This paper contributes to this strand of the literature by utilizing the ordinary least square and instrumental variable approach to investigate if Covid‐19 support payment is a driver of gambling. We utilize a wide range of gambling measures and different forms of Covid‐19 support payment. Our findings show that Covid‐19 support payment is positively associated with gambling. Our results also suggest a stronger effect for male gamblers and online gamblers compared to female gamblers and gamblers who gambled at the venue.
Acidophilic methanotrophs: Occurrence, diversity, and possible bioremediation applications
Authors: Hwangbo Myung , Shao Yiru , Hatzinger Paul B. , Chu Kung‐Hui 
Published: April 2023

AbstractMethanotrophs have been identified and isolated from acidic environments such as wetlands, acidic soils, peat bogs, and groundwater aquifers. Due to their methane (CH4) utilization as a carbon and energy source, acidophilic methanotrophs are important in controlling the release of atmospheric CH4, an important greenhouse gas, from acidic wetlands and other environments. Methanotrophs have also played an important role in the biodegradation and bioremediation of a variety of pollutants including chlorinated volatile organic compounds (CVOCs) using CH4 monooxygenases via a process known as cometabolism. Under neutral pH conditions, anaerobic bioremediation via carbon source addition is a commonly used and highly effective approach to treat CVOCs in groundwater. However, complete dechlorination of CVOCs is typically inhibited at low pH. Acidophilic methanotrophs have recently been observed to degrade a range of CVOCs at pH < 5.5, suggesting that cometabolic treatment may be an option for CVOCs and other contaminants in acidic aquifers. This paper provides an overview of the occurrence, diversity, and physiological activities of methanotrophs in acidic environments and highlights the potential application of these organisms for enhancing contaminant biodegradation and bioremediation.
Canonical and extra‐telomeric functions of telomerase: Implications for healthy ageing conferred by endurance training
Authors: Denham Joshua 
Published: April 2023

AbstractTelomerase preserves genomic integrity by maintaining and protecting the telomeres. Seminal findings from 1985 revealed the canonical role of telomerase and motivated investigations into potential therapeutic strategies to combat one of the hallmarks of ageing—telomere attrition. Since then, the field of telomere biology has rapidly expanded, with telomerase serving essential roles in cancer and cell development through its canonical function. However, telomerase also exerts critical extra‐telomeric functions through its protein (telomerase reverse transcriptase, TERT) and RNA components (telomerase RNA component, TERC). Telomerase re‐activation or ectopic expression promotes survival and permits unlimited proliferation in tumours and healthy non‐malignant cells. TERT gene therapies improve health and lifespan in ageing mice and mouse models of age‐related diseases. The extra‐telomeric functions of telomerase are critical to ageing. These include protection against oxidative stress, orchestration of chromatin modifications and transcription, and regulation of angiogenesis and metabolism (e.g. mitochondrial function and glucose control). Given these biological functions are key adaptations to endurance training and the recent meta‐analytical findings that indicate exercise up‐regulates TERT and telomerase, a comprehensive discussion on the implications of the canonical and extra‐telomeric roles of telomerase is warranted. This review highlights the therapeutic benefits of telomerase‐based treatments for idiopathic and chronic diseases that are linked to ageing. Discussion on the canonical and extra‐telomeric roles of telomerase are presented, followed by a detailed summary of the evidence on how exercise influences telomerase. Finally, the potential cell signalling underpinning the exercise‐induced modulation of telomerase are discussed with directions for future research.
Gonadotropin axis and semen quality in young Swiss men after cannabis consumption: Effect of chronicity and modulation by cannabidiol
Authors: Zufferey Fanny , Buitrago Elina , Rahban Rita , Senn Alfred , Stettler Eric , Rudaz Serge , Nef Serge , Donzé Nicolas , Thomas Aurélien , Rossier Michel F. 
Published: April 2023

AbstractBackgroundWhile cannabis is the most widely used recreational drug in the world, the effects of phytocannabinoids on semen parameters and reproductive hormones remain controversial. Cannabinoid receptors are activated by these compounds at each level of the hypothalamus–pituitary–gonadotropic axis.ObjectivesTo assess the impact of the consumption of Δ‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol on semen parameters, as well as on male reproductive hormone and endocannabinoid levels, in a cohort of young Swiss men.Materials and methodsThe individuals in a Swiss cohort were divided according to their cannabis consumption. In the cannabis user group, we determined the delay between the last intake of cannabis and sample collection, the chronicity of use and the presence of cannabidiol in the consumed product. Urinary Δ‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol metabolites were quantified via gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Blood phytocannabinoids, endocannabinoids and male steroids were determined via liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry, and other hypothalamus–pituitary–gonadotropic axis hormones were determined via immunoassays. Semen parameters such as sperm concentration and motility were recorded using computer‐assisted sperm analysis.ResultsAnandamide, N‐palmitoyl ethanolamide, androgens, estradiol and sex hormone binding globulin levels were all higher in cannabis users, particularly in chronic, recent and cannabidiol‐positive consumers. Gonadotropin levels were not significantly different in these user subpopulations, whereas prolactin and albumin concentrations were lower. In addition, cannabis users had a more basic semen pH and a higher percentage of spermatozoa with progressive motility. However, the two latter observations seem to be related to a shorter period of sexual abstinence in this group rather than to the use of cannabis.ConclusionsBecause both cannabidiol and Δ‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol are frequently used by men of reproductive age, it is highly relevant to elucidate the potential effects they may have on human reproductive health. This study demonstrates that the mode of cannabis consumption must be considered when evaluating the effect of cannabis on semen quality.
Higher mean cerebral oxygen saturation shortly after extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation in patients who regain consciousness
Authors: Mandigers Loes , den Uil Corstiaan A. , Belliato Mirko , Raemen Hannelore , Rossi Eleonora , van Rosmalen Joost , Rietdijk Wim J. R. , Melis Joo‐Ree , Gommers Diederik , van Thiel Robert J. , dos Reis Miranda Dinis 
Published: April 2023

AbstractIntroductionIn cardiac arrest, cerebral ischemia and reperfusion injury mainly determine the neurological outcome. The aim of this study was to investigate the relation between the course of cerebral oxygenation and regain of consciousness in patients treated with extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR). We hypothesized that rapid cerebral oxygenation increase causes unfavorable outcomes.MethodsThis prospective observational study was conducted in three European hospitals. We included adult ECPR patients between October 2018 and March 2020, in whom cerebral regional oxygen saturation (rSO2) measurements were started minutes before ECPR initiation until 3 h after. The primary outcome was regain of consciousness, defined as following commands, analyzed using binary logistic regression.ResultsThe sample consisted of 26 ECPR patients (23% women, Agemean46 years). We found no significant differences in rSO2values at baseline (49.1% versus 49.3% for regain versus no regain of consciousness). Mean cerebral rSO2values in the first 30 min after ECPR initiation were higher in patients who regained consciousness (38%) than in patients who did not regain consciousness (62%, odds ratio 1.23, 95% confidence interval 1.01–1.50).ConclusionHigher mean cerebral rSO2values in the first 30 min after initiation of ECPR were found in patients who regained consciousness.
Anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor therapy and retinal non‐perfusion in diabetic retinopathy: A meta‐analysis of randomised trials
Authors: Nanji Keean , Sarohia Gurkaran S. , Xie Jim , Patil Nikhil S. , Phillips Mark , Zeraatkar Dena , Thabane Lehana , Guymer Robyn H. , Kaiser Peter K. , Sivaprasad Sobha , Sadda Srinivas R. , Wykoff Charles C. , Chaudhary Varun 
Published: April 2023

AbstractPurposeRetinal non‐perfusion (RNP) is fundamental to disease onset and progression in diabetic retinopathy (DR). Whether anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor (anti‐VEGF) therapy can modify RNP progression is unclear. This investigation quantified the impact of anti‐VEGF therapy on RNP progression compared with laser or sham at 12 months.MethodsA systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were performed; Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE and CENTRAL were searched from inception to 4th March 2022. The change in any continuous measure of RNP at 12 months and 24 months was the primary and secondary outcomes, respectively. Outcomes were reported utilising standardised mean differences (SMD). The Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool version‐2 and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) guidelines informed risk of bias and certainty of evidence assessments.ResultsSix RCTs (1296 eyes) and three RCTs (1131 eyes) were included at 12 and 24 months, respectively. Meta‐analysis demonstrated that RNP progression may be slowed with anti‐VEGF therapy compared with laser/sham at 12 months (SMD: −0.17; 95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.29, −0.06; p = 0.003; I2 = 0; GRADE rating: LOW) and 24‐months (SMD: −0.21; 95% CI: −0.37, −0.05; p = 0.009; I2 = 28%; GRADE rating: LOW). The certainty of evidence was downgraded due to indirectness and due to imprecision.ConclusionAnti‐VEGF treatment may slightly impact the pathophysiologic process of progressive RNP in DR. The dosing regimen and the absence of diabetic macular edema may impact this potential effect. Future trials are needed to increase the precision of the effect and inform the association between RNP progression and clinically important events.PROSPERO RegistrationCRD42022314418.
L‐carnitine alleviates cardiac microvascular dysfunction in diabetic cardiomyopathy by enhancing PINK1‐Parkin‐dependent mitophagy through the CPT1a‐PHB2‐PARL pathways
Authors: Li Su , Liu Muyin , Chen Jinxiang , Chen Yuqiong , Yin Ming , Zhou You , Li Qiyu , Xu Fei , Li Youran , Yan Xiaopei , Xia Yan , Chen Ao , Lu Danbo , Li Chenguang , Shen Li , Chen Zhangwei , Qian Juying , Ge Junbo 
Published: April 2023

AbstractAimTo explore the beneficial effects of L‐carnitine on cardiac microvascular dysfunction in diabetic cardiomyopathy from the perspectives of mitophagy and mitochondrial integrity.MethodsMale db/db and db/m mice were randomly assigned to groups and were treated with L‐carnitine or a solvent for 24 weeks. Endothelium‐specific PARL overexpression was attained via adeno‐associated virus serotype 9 (AAV9) transfection. Adenovirus (ADV) vectors overexpressing wild‐type CPT1a, mutant CPT1a, or PARL were transfected into endothelial cells exposed to high glucose and free fatty acid (HG/FFA) injury. Cardiac microvascular function, mitophagy, and mitochondrial function were analyzed by immunofluorescence and transmission electron microscopy. Protein expression and interactions were assessed by western blotting and immunoprecipitation.ResultsL‐carnitine treatment enhanced microvascular perfusion, reinforced endothelial barrier function, repressed the endothelial inflammatory response, and maintained the microvascular structure in db/db mice. Further results demonstrated that PINK1‐Parkin‐dependent mitophagy was suppressed in endothelial cells suffering from diabetic injury, and these effects were largely alleviated by L‐carnitine through the inhibition of PARL detachment from PHB2. Moreover, CPT1a modulated the PHB2‐PARL interaction by directly binding to PHB2. The increase in CPT1a activity induced by L‐carnitine or amino acid mutation (M593S) enhanced the PHB2‐PARL interaction, thereby improving mitophagy and mitochondrial function. In contrast, PARL overexpression inhibited mitophagy and abolished all the beneficial effects of L‐carnitine on mitochondrial integrity and cardiac microvascular function.ConclusionL‐carnitine treatment enhanced PINK1‐Parkin‐dependent mitophagy by maintaining the PHB2‐PARL interaction via CPT1a, thereby reversing mitochondrial dysfunction and cardiac microvascular injury in diabetic cardiomyopathy.
Population pharmacokinetic modelling of fibrinogen in patients with congenital or acquired—chronic or acute—hypofibrinogenaemia
Authors: Colom Helena , Blasi Annabel , Montoro Bruno , Arévalo Angel‐Guillermo , Cendrós Josep Maria , Sabaté Antoni 
Published: April 2023

AimsFibrinogen is the key substrate for coagulation. Fibrinogen pharmacokinetics (PK) after single doses of fibrinogen concentrate (FC), using modelling approaches, has only been evaluated in congenital afibrinogenaemic patients. The aims of this study are to characterize the fibrinogen PK in patients with acquired—chronic (cirrhosis) or acute—hypofibrinogenaemia (critical haemorrhage), showing endogenous production. Influencing factors of differences on the fibrinogen PK between subpopulations will be identified.MethodsA total of 428 time–concentration values from 132 patients were recorded. Eighty‐two out of 428 values were from 41 cirrhotic patients administered with placebo and 90 out of 428 were from 45 cirrhotic patients that were given FC, 161 out of 428 values were from 14 afibrinogenaemic patients and 95 out of 428 values were from 32 severe acute trauma haemorrhagic patients. A turnover model that accounted for endogenous production and exogenous dose was fitted using NONMEM74. The production rate (Ksyn), distribution volume (V), plasma clearance (CL) and concentration yielding to 50% of maximal fibrinogen production (EC50) were estimated.ResultsFibrinogen disposition was described by a one‐compartment model with CL and V values of 0.0456 L·h−1 and 4.34 L·70 kg−1, respectively. Body weight was statistically significant in V. Three different Ksyn values were identified that increased from 0.00439 g·h−1 (afibrinogenaemia), to 0.0768 g·h−1 (cirrhotics) and 0.1160 g·h−1 (acute severe trauma). EC50 was of 0.460 g·L−1.ConclusionsThis model will be key as a support tool for dose calculation to achieve specified target fibrinogen concentrations, in each of the studied populations.
Moving towards social dentistry: How do dentists perceive the Montreal‐Toulouse model?
Authors: Homa Fathi , Jacqueline Rousseau , Christophe Bedos 
Published: April 2023

AbstractObjectivesThis study aimed to understand the perspectives of dentists towards the Montreal‐Toulouse model, an innovative approach that encompasses person‐centredness and social dentistry. This model invites dentists to take three types of actions (understanding, decision‐making, intervening) on three overlapping levels (individual, community, societal). This study aimed to understand (a) How dentists perceived the Montreal‐Toulouse model as a framework for the practice of dentistry and (b) What parts of this model they were ready to adopt in their own practice.MethodsA qualitative descriptive study was conducted based on semi‐structured interviews with a sample of dentists in the Province of Quebec, Canada. A combination of maximum variation and snowball sampling strategies was employed and 14 information‐rich participants were recruited. The interviews were conducted and audio‐recorded through Zoom and lasted approximately 1 h and a half. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed through a combination of inductive and deductive coding.ResultsThe participants explained they valued person‐centred care and tried to put the individual level of the Montreal‐Toulouse model into practice. However, they expressed little interest in the social dentistry aspects of the model. They acknowledged not knowing how to organize and conduct upstream interventions and were not comfortable with social and political activism. According to them, advocating for better health‐related policies, while a noble act, ‘was not their job’. They also highlighted the structural challenges that dentists face in fostering biopsychosocial approaches such as the Montreal‐Toulouse model.ConclusionsTo promote the Montreal‐Toulouse model and empower dentists to address social determinants of health, an educational and organizational ‘paradigm shift’ towards social accountability might be necessary. Such a shift requires curricular modifications and reconsidering traditional teaching approaches in dental schools. Moreover, dentistry's professional organization could facilitate dentists' upstream actions through proper resource allocation and openness to collaboration with them.