bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The counterfeit degree certificate: application of blockchain technology in higher education in India
Authors: Jha Sanjay Kumar 
Published: May 2022

Purpose
In this work-in-progress, the application of blockchain technology (BT) in higher education in India – involving academic institutions, students and verifiers – in the wake of fake degrees (racket) being issued at a large scale from universities across the country is being investigated. This paper considers providing new methods of database system in education, and implementing the new BT in education can increase transparency and security in the education system.

Design/methodology/approach
This study used interview methodology (asking interview participants a series of informal questions to obtain knowledge).

Findings
Private and public sector organizations have many challenges to overcome in synchronizing and aligning their digital transformation efforts to enable the network effects to take hold. India’s policymakers, civil society leaders, senior business leaders and entrepreneurs are building strong clusters to help the country be the leader of the next era of the internet as a platform that helps transform human affairs for the benefit of the citizens. Executives can contribute to the digital ecosystem by creating open and collaborative cultures where knowledge and innovation are shared with the industry for the benefit of the masses and, more so, to establish quality and communication standards. They also can contribute by staying open to change, embracing digital adoption and transformation within their management models and infrastructure. It is time for institutions to rethink their processes and governance structures to become more agile and innovative players. The success of a harmonious digital identity ecosystem relies on staying ahead of the organization’s digital curve. As a first step to provide better quality in the provision of public services, Secure Key Technologies’ blockchain-based ecosystem (securekey.com) allows multiple partners to strengthen the authentication and provides identity attribute validation as a fabric of trust and as a solid foundation to embrace a new digital era. Secure Key Technologies’ vision for the future of digital identities redefines the ways both consumers and businesses approach identity verification and the sharing of key personal information. The challenges identified in the education system be it the difficulty in authenticating certifications and documents, tracking intellectual property and in accessibility can be better managed through blockchain implementation.

Originality/value
Digital certificates produced using blockchains are the most secure and efficient method being adopted by many countries across the globe (Grech and Camilleri, 2017). Tamper-proof blockchain records consist of three components or layers: the first contains the signed hash of the content, the second contains all the data and images and the third is the presentation and styling of the data. The verification process is relatively simple; the hash of the recipient is compared to the hash stored on the blockchain if they match the document is verified.
A moderated-mediation model of individual learning and commitment: evidence from healthcare industry in India (part II)
Authors: Somaskandan Karthikeyan , Arulandu Savarimuthu , Parayitam Satyanarayana 
Published: May 2022

Purpose
This study aims to empirically examine the relationship between individual learning, organizational learning and employee commitment in the context of health-care industry.

Design/methodology/approach
A survey instrument was distributed, and data was collected from 346 employees in the health-care industry in the Southern part of India. Hayes’s PROCESS macros were used to test the mediation, moderated moderated-mediation hypotheses.

Findings
The results reveal organizational learning as a mediator in the relationship between individual learning and continuance commitment, normative commitment and affective commitment moderate the relationship between organizational learning and continuance commitment and three-way interaction between organizational learning, normative commitment and affective commitment to influence continuance commitment of employees.

Research limitations/implications
As with any survey-based research, the present study suffers from the problems associated with self-report measures: common method bias and social desirability bias. However, the authors attempted to minimize these limitations by following appropriate statistical techniques.

Practical implications
The study suggests that managers in work organizations need to promote a climate for enhancing learning so that employees remain committed to completing their job and contribute to organizational effectiveness. The results highlight the importance of all three dimensions of organizational commitment: affective, normative and continuance.

Originality/value
This study provides new insights in understanding complex interactions between three dimensions of commitment in contributing to organizational performance. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the multilayered model showing three-way interactions between three dimensions of organizational commitment is the first of its kind and is a novel idea.
A comparative analysis testing Werner's theory of complex life cycles
Authors: Richardson Emily L. , White Craig R. , Marshall Dustin J. 
Published: May 2022

Abstract

A popular theoretical model for explaining the evolution of complex life cycles (CLCs) was provided by Earl Werner. The theory predicts the size at which an individual should switch stages to maximise growth rate relative to mortality rate across the life history.

Werner's theory assumes that body size does not change during the transition from one phase to another (e.g. from larva to adult)—a key assumption that has not been tested systematically but could alter the predictions of the model.

We quantified how growth rate and mass change across larval stages and metamorphosis for 105 species of fish, amphibians, insects, crustaceans and molluscs. Across all taxonomic groups, we found support for Werner's assumption that growth rates are maintained or increase around transitions. We found that changes in growth and mass were greatest during metamorphosis, and change in growth correlated with development time. Importantly, most species either gained or lost mass when switching to a new stage—a direct contradiction of Werner's assumption. When we explored the consequences of energy loss and gain in a numerical model, we found that individuals should switch stages at a larger and smaller size, respectively, relative to what Werner's standard theory predicts.

Our results suggest that while there is support for Werner's assumption regarding growth rates, mass changes profoundly alter the timing of transitions that are predicted to maximise fitness, and therefore the original model omits an important component that may contribute to the evolution of CLCs. Future studies should test for conditions that alter the costs of transitions, so that we can have a better understanding of how mass loss or gain affects fitness.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Sulfasalazine exacerbates angiotensin II‐induced cardiac remodelling by activating Akt signal pathway
Authors: Chen Chen , Zhang Xiyu , Zheng Cuiting , Gao Zhenqiang , Jiang Xi , Bai Yunfei , Meng Yan 
Published: May 2022

AbstractA thorough understanding of the pathological process underlying hypertension‐induced cardiac remodelling may help in prevention and treatment of heart failure. Angiotensin II (AngII) results in cardiac fibrosis and hypertrophy partly through activation of inflammation, which increases the fibroblasts and promotes extracellular matrix production. Sulfasalazine (SASP) has evident anti‐inflammatory effects and pharmacological functions on autoimmune disease. The roles of SASP in the cardiac remodelling remain unknown. In this study, we established AngII‐induced cardiac remodelling mice model and then treated with SASP. Blood pressure, cardiac pump function and pathological changes of cardiac remodelling were analysed in these mice. To explore the mechanism, phosphorylated Akt was detected in vivo and vitro. In this study, we found that SASP aggravated cardiac dysfunction, hypertrophy and fibrosis after AngII infusion. In addition, SASP activated Akt in AngII‐remodelled mouse hearts and cardiac cells. Our findings indicate that independent of anti‐inflammatory property, SASP exacerbates AngII‐induced cardiac remodelling by activation of Akt signalling pathway.
Lung cancer as a predominant feature in a patient with Peutz–Jeghers syndrome: Case report
Authors: Fostira Florentia , Fountzilas Elena , Papadopoulou Kyriaki , Karaiskos Theodoros , Mpatsi Ourania , Pastelli Nikoleta , Mountzios Giannis , Konstantopoulou Irene , Fountzilas George 
Published: May 2022

AbstractPeutz–Jeghers syndrome (PJS) is characterized by mucocutaneous pigmentation and gastrointestinal hamartomatous polyposis, which can lead to intussusception. PJS patients face high lifetime risks for various cancer types, with the majority of patients being diagnosed with tumors along the gastrointestinal tract. Herein, we present the case of a 34‐year‐old man who carried a germline STK11 pathogenic variant, while lacking the cardinal features of PJS syndrome. Interestingly, he was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma despite being a never‐smoker. Tumor testing revealed clinically relevant molecular alterations, including the known germline pathogenic variant STK11, a KRAS somatic pathogenic variant, and FGFR3 gene amplification. Treatment with standard chemotherapy and immunotherapy did not have a clinical benefit. Due to clinical deterioration, the patient deceased 18 months after his initial diagnosis prior to having the chance for targeted therapy. Identification of rare hereditary cancer syndromes and the respective presence of tumor biomarkers can provide important alternatives to targeted treatments, including immunotherapy in patients with tumors unresponsive to conventional treatment protocols. This case highlights that although only a small proportion of lung cancer diagnoses will be due to hereditary predisposition, STK11 germline carriers should be under close surveillance for early detection of lung cancer.
Rapid changes in illegally manufactured fentanyl products and prices in the United States
Authors: Kilmer Beau , Pardo Bryce , Pujol Toyya A. , Caulkins Jonathan P. 
Published: May 2022

AbstractBackground and aimsSynthetic opioids, mostly illegally manufactured fentanyl (IMF), were mentioned in 60% of United States (US) drug overdose deaths in 2020, with dramatic variation across states that mirrors variation in IMF supply. However, little is known about IMF markets in the United States and how they are changing. Researchers have previously used data from undercover cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine purchases and seizures to examine how their use and related harms respond to changes in price and availability. This analysis used US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) data to address two questions: (i) “To what extent does IMF supply vary over time and geography?” and (ii) “What has happened to the purity‐adjusted price of IMF?”MethodsWe developed descriptive statistics and visualizations using data from 66 713 observations mentioning IMF and/or heroin from the DEA's System to Retrieve Information from Drug Evidence (STRIDE; now STARLIMS) from 2013 to 2021. Price regressions were estimated with city‐level fixed effects examining IMF‐only powder observations with purity and price information at the low‐to‐medium wholesale level (>1 g to ≤100 g; n = 964).ResultsFrom 2013 to 2021, the share of heroin and/or IMF observations mentioning IMF grew from near zero to more than two‐thirds. The share of heroin observations also containing IMF grew from <1% to ~40%. There is important geographic variation: in California, most IMF seizures involved counterfeit tablets, whereas New York and Massachusetts largely involved powder formulation. The median price per pure gram of IMF powder sold at the >10 to ≤100 g level fell by more than 50% from 2016 to 2021; regression analyses suggested an average annual decline of 17% (P < 0.001). However, this price decline appears to have been driven by observations from the Northeast.ConclusionsSince 2013, the illegally manufactured fentanyl problem in the United States has become more deadly and more diverse.
Editorial: liver and kidney injury from remdesivir—an issue not as much as its purpose
Authors: Vuppalanchi Shireesha , Vuppalanchi Raj 
Published: May 2022

LINKED CONTENTThis article is linked to Wong et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16894 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16932
Genetic relationship between superovulatory response traits and carcass traits in Japanese Black cattle
Authors: Zoda Atsushi , Kagawa Rino , Obinata Rui , Urakawa Manami , Oono Yoshio , Ogawa Shinichiro , Uemoto Yoshinobu , Satoh Masahiro 
Published: May 2022

AbstractWe estimated the genetic correlations between superovulatory response traits and carcass traits in Japanese Black cattle. As regards the superovulatory response traits in cows, we analyzed the phenotypic records of the total number of embryos and oocytes (TNE) and the number of good embryos (NGE) collected from 1532 donors between 2008 and 2018. As regards the carcass traits in fattened animals, we analyzed the phenotypic records for cold carcass weight, rib eye area, rib thickness, subcutaneous fat thickness, estimated yield percent, and marbling score for 1448 progenies derived from 596 donors and slaughtered between 2004 and 2020. Variance components were estimated using single‐trait and two‐trait animal models and the restricted maximum likelihood approach. The estimated genetic correlations with the carcass traits ranged from −0.05 to 0.04 for TNE and from −0.14 to 0.04 for NGE, and their standard errors ranged from 0.10 to 0.14. These results imply that the genetic relationship between the superovulatory response traits in Japanese Black donor cows and the carcass traits in their fattened progenies was weak to negligible. Therefore, we concluded that selecting donors with superior genetic ability for superovulatory responses would not have antagonistic effects on carcass performance in their fattened progenies.
Blood transfusion in haematology: A qualitative exploration of patients’ and healthcare professionals’ perceptions
Authors: Volkmer Brittannia , Lorencatto Fabiana , Stanworth Simon J. , Hirani Shashivadan P. , Francis Jill J. 
Published: May 2022

AbstractObjectivesRepeated blood transfusions are indicated for the management of patients with cancer or blood disorders. Patients’ perceptions about transfusions may be associated with decision‐making and coping, which has been under‐explored in the haematology context. This study therefore aimed to explore haematology transfusion patients’ and HCPs’ perceptions of blood transfusion, drawing on theory and previously identified themes of transfusion perceptions.DesignSemi‐structured interview study with 14 adult blood transfusion patients and 14 HCPs (consultants, registrars, nurses) at two UK haematology units.MethodsPatient‐ and HCP‐tailored topic guides were developed based on themes of blood transfusion perceptions identified in a systematic review: ‘Health benefits’, ‘Safety/risk’, ‘Negative emotions’, ‘Alternatives’ ‘Decision making’ and ‘Necessity’. Transcripts were analysed using deductive and thematic analysis. Patient and HCP themes were compared using triangulation methods. Conceptual models (one for patients, one for HCPs) specific to haematology portraying the association between themes were developed.ResultsFindings for patients and HCPs converged with transfusion reported as beneficial for patients, who were largely involved in the decision‐making. Both groups also reported concerns about transfusion, including iron‐overload, allergic reactions and challenges to deliver transfusions in time‐pressurized services. Themes in the conceptual models included patient ‘Burden’ of receiving repeated transfusions and ‘Supportive relationships’, reflective of patients’ positive interactions with other patients and HCPs in the haematology unit.ConclusionDespite the challenges for patients receiving repeated transfusions, convergent perceptions suggest a shared understanding of patients’ transfusion experiences. Identified challenges could inform ways to improve transfusion services and patients’ experiences.
The long‐term impact of bloodstream infections on patient and graft survival following kidney transplantation
Authors: Eviatar Naamany , Dafna Yahav , Nadav Mizrahi , Tzzipy Shochat , Eytan Mor , Hefziba Green 
Published: May 2022

AbstractBackgroundThere are limited data on the impact of bloodstream infections (BSI) following kidney transplantation (KT) on long term patient outcome.MethodsThis was a retrospective parallel‐cohort study. We included 123 consecutive KT recipients who were admitted with a first episode of BSI between January 2007 and December, 2016. They were matched with 225 KT recipients who did not have BSI. Multivariate regression analysis with BSI as time‐dependent covariate was used for the effect of BSI on graft loss, all‐cause mortality and long‐term graft function (defined by the slope of mean serum creatinine level).ResultsDuring a median follow‐up of 89.4 months, post‐transplant BSI was independently associated with all‐cause mortality (HR 5.56, 95% CI 3.07–10.09, P < .0001) and graft failure (HR‐2.82, 95% CI 1.40–5.64, P = .003) after adjustment for potential confounders. This association remained irrespective of the source of infection or pathogen, but became nonsignificant when appropriate antibiotic therapy was administrated. Baseline kidney function was independently associated with graft failure. Recipients with BSI had lower baseline kidney function; however, the BSI episode had no influence on the slope of change in serum creatinine over time.ConclusionBSI after KT was associated with long‐term adverse outcome. This effect was mitigated by the early administration of appropriate antibiotics.
Improving radiographic diagnosis of pulpo‐periodontal complications in primary molars by training: Application in education and clinical research
Authors: Muller‐Bolla Michèle , Joseph Clara , Innes Nicola , Aïem Elody , Lopez Serena , Juwara Lamin , Velly Ana Miriam 
Published: May 2022

AbstractIntroductionThe objective of this study was to assess an original learning intervention to train students and paediatric dentistry teachers in radiographic diagnostic accuracy of pulpo‐periodontal complications in primary molars.Materials and MethodsThe learning intervention was based on 250 different randomly ordered radiographs of primary molars within three quizzes (A, B and C) for 5 sessions (S): quiz A (50 X‐rays), B and C (100 X‐rays) were, respectively, completed in S1 to assess the extent of agreement with 5 experts' diagnoses, in S2 and S3 (B at days 8 and 23) and in S4 and S5 (C at days 90 and 105). During S1 and at the end of S3 and S5, the participants (48 students and 16 teachers) were informed of correct diagnoses. A satisfaction questionnaire was completed by all the students. Alongside the descriptive analyses, generalised linear mixed model (GLMM) analyses assessed the odds of participants' correct diagnosis over the study duration.ResultsAt S1, the odds of diagnostic accuracy among students were significantly lower than those among the teachers. After receiving feedback at S1, GLMM analyses showed that among all the participants, accuracy improved over time with the odds of correct diagnoses higher in S2‐5 than in S1; and there were similar increases across sessions between teachers and students, except in S3, where the improvement among teachers tended to be greater than that among the students. All students were satisfied though one‐third reported that quizzes with 100 radiographs felt too long.ConclusionThe online case‐based learning was a good training format for dental education.
Influence of students' self‐directed learning on situational interest: A prospective randomised study
Authors: Jaffar Maryam Sayed , Marei Hesham , Rathan Ramya , Ayoub Ashraf 
Published: May 2022

AbstractIntroductionEvaluate the effectiveness of a newly developed interactive 3D head and neck software package on students' situational interest and knowledge acquisition.Material and MethodsA prospective randomised controlled study was carried out on two groups of dental students, 25 each. The study group “A” received education on head and neck anatomy using an interactive 3D software package. The same content was delivered to the students in group B via the standard PowerPoint presentation. The same lecturer delivered the educational modules over 80 min. Throughout the course of learning, the students completed a situational interest questionnaire, every 20 min. At the end of the session, each participant completed a knowledge acquisition test.ResultsWilcoxon signed‐rank sum test showed a clear difference in the pattern of situational interest between the two groups; a statistically significant drop in the interest in the head and neck was noted amongst the students after 40 min in group B (p < .05). An opposite pattern was detected amongst the students in group A. No statistically significant differences were detected in the knowledge acquisition between the two groups.ConclusionThe 3D software package of the head and neck anatomy has augmented the students' situational interest and improved their knowledge acquisition. However, further research is required to evaluate students' perception and experience of its use before it is widely generalised in universities and educational institutes.
Pharmacogenomics for the efficacy and side effects of antihistamines
Authors: Li Liqiao , Liu Runqiu , Peng Cong , Chen Xiang , Li Jie 
Published: May 2022

AbstractAntihistamines, especially H1 antihistamines, are widely used in the treatment of allergic diseases such as urticaria and allergic rhinitis, mainly for reversing elevated histamine and anti‐allergic effects. Antihistamines are generally safe, but some patients experience adverse reactions, such as cardiotoxicity, central inhibition and anticholinergic effects. There are also individual differences in antihistamine efficacy in clinical practice. The concept of individualized medicine has been deeply rooted in people's minds since it was put forward. Pharmacogenomics is the study of the role of inheritance in individual variations in drug response. In recent decades, pharmacogenomics has been developing rapidly, which provides new ideas for individualized medicine. Polymorphisms in the genes encoding metabolic enzymes, transporters and target receptors have been shown to affect the efficacy of antihistamines. In addition, recent evidence suggests that gene polymorphisms influence urticaria susceptibility and antihistamine therapy. Here, we summarize current reports in this area, aiming to contribute to future research in antihistamines and clinical guidance for antihistamines use in individualized medicine.