Selection Criteria Research Articles

Perancangan Sistem Pendukung Keputusan Pemilihan Supplier dengan Metode Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) Pada CV. Safina Abadi

The contractor industry, including CV Safina Abadi, has a significant need for selecting the right suppliers to ensure smooth project execution. Optimal supplier selection can affect various critical aspects of a construction project, such as product quality, availability, competitive pricing, service, and reputation. However, due to the numerous supplier options available, companies often face difficulties in evaluating and choosing the most suitable supplier based on their needs and criteria. Therefore, utilizing a Decision Support System (DSS) with the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) method presents an effective solution to assist companies in the supplier selection process. By employing AHP, companies can model a hierarchy of selection criteria, from main criteria down to more detailed sub-criteria. AHP further enables companies to measure and compare the relative weights of each criterion and sub-criterion, providing recommendations for the most optimal supplier based on the company's preferences and requirements. This research aims to design and implement a Decision Support System using the AHP method to assist in supplier selection for CV Safina Abadi. It is hoped that this study will contribute to improving the efficiency and effectiveness of supplier selection, thereby enhancing overall project performance in the construction industry.

Pooperacinių išvaržų gydymo naudojant tinklelį atokieji (daugiau negu penkerių metų) rezultatai: literatūros apžvalga

Introduction. Postoperative hernias occur in 10–15% of patients. Considering the increase in the incidence of complications with the number of operations it is crucial to choose the optimal surgical technique in order to control the complications rate. This literature review summarizes previous studies on the treatment of postoperative hernias with mesh, comparing complication and recurrence rates according to surgical technique and mesh position. Methods. A thorough search was conducted on the PubMed database to retrieve literature on recurrence, chronic pain, haematoma, seroma, and surgical site infections rates. The results were meticulously summarised and used to confidently compare open and laparoscopic surgical techniques, as well as “sublay” and “onlay/inlay” mesh positions in more than 5-year follow-up. Results. The analysis was conducted on five publications that met the selection criteria. The results showed that laparoscopically treated hernias had lower recurrence and chronic pain rates, but more frequent haematomas. The presence of wound infections, BMI >30, treatment of recurrent postoperative hernias, multiple fascia lesions, enterotomy, larger abdominal wall defect and longer operative time were observed to be associated with higher recurrence rates. The position of the sublay mesh is associated with less frequent seromas, surgical infections, and recurrence compared to the onlay/inlay position. Studies have reported the superiority of large-pore lightweight polypropylene multifilament mesh over the same heavyweight mesh in managing postoperative hernias. Lightweight mesh is linked to a lower risk of hernia recurrence and higher compliance with the abdominal wall. Conclusion. Laparoscopic surgery is associated with lower rates of recurrence and chronic pain, but a higher frequency of haematomas. The sublay mesh position is associated with lower rates of seromas, surgical infections, and recurrence.

Integrating Hyperspectral Reflectance-Based Phenotyping and SSR Marker-Based Genotyping for Assessing the Salt Tolerance of Wheat Genotypes under Real Field Conditions

Wheat breeding programs are currently focusing on using non-destructive and cost-effective hyperspectral sensing tools to expeditiously and accurately phenotype large collections of genotypes. This approach is expected to accelerate the development of the abiotic stress tolerance of genotypes in breeding programs. This study aimed to assess salt tolerance in wheat genotypes using non-destructive canopy spectral reflectance measurements as an alternative to direct laborious and time-consuming phenological selection criteria. Eight wheat genotypes and sixteen F8 RILs were tested under 150 mM NaCl in real field conditions for two years. Fourteen spectral reflectance indices (SRIs) were calculated from the spectral data, including vegetation SRIs and water SRIs. The effectiveness of these indices in assessing salt tolerance was compared with four morpho-physiological traits using genetic parameters, SSR markers, the Mantel test, hierarchical clustering heatmaps, stepwise multiple linear regression, and principal component analysis (PCA). The results showed significant differences (p ≤ 0.001) among RILs/cultivars for both traits and SRIs. The heritability, genetic gain, and genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variability for most SRIs were comparable to those of measured traits. The SRIs effectively differentiated between salt-tolerant and sensitive genotypes and exhibited strong correlations with SSR markers (R2 = 0.56–0.89), similar to the measured traits and allelic data of 34 SSRs. A strong correlation (r = 0.27, p < 0.0001) was found between the similarity coefficients of SRIs and SSR data, which was higher than that between measured traits and SSR data (r = 0.20, p < 0.0003) based on the Mantel test. The PCA indicated that all vegetation SRIs and most water SRIs were grouped with measured traits in a positive direction and effectively identified the salt-tolerant RILs/cultivars. The PLSR models, which were based on all SRIs, accurately and robustly estimated the various morpho-physiological traits compared to using individual SRIs. The study suggests that various SRIs can be integrated with PLSR in wheat breeding programs as a cost-effective and non-destructive tool for phenotyping and screening large wheat populations for salt tolerance in a short time frame. This approach can replace the need for traditional morpho-physiological traits and accelerate the development of salt-tolerant wheat genotypes.

Digital Twin Approach for Operation and Maintenance of Transportation System—Systematic Review

There is a growing need to implement modern technologies, such as digital twinning, to improve the efficiency of transport fleet maintenance processes and maintain company operational capacity at the required level. A comprehensive review of the existing literature is conducted to address this, offering an up-to-date analysis of relevant content in this field. The methodology employed is a systematic literature review using the Primo multi-search tool, adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The selection criteria focused on English studies published between 2012 and 2024, resulting in 201 highly relevant papers. These papers were categorized into seven groups: (a) air transportation, (b) railway transportation, (c) land transportation (road), (d) in-house logistics, (e) water and intermodal transportation, (f) supply chain operation, and (g) other applications. A notable strength of this study is its use of diverse scientific databases facilitated by the multi-search tool. Additionally, a bibliometric analysis was performed, revealing the evolution of DT applications over the past decade and identifying key areas such as predictive maintenance, condition monitoring, and decision-making processes. This study highlights the varied levels of adoption across different transport sectors and underscores promising areas for future development, particularly in underrepresented domains like supply chains and water transport. Additionally, this paper identifies significant research gaps, including integration challenges, real-time data processing, and standardization needs. Future research directions are proposed, focusing on enhancing predictive diagnostics, automating maintenance processes, and optimizing inventory management. This study also outlines a framework for DT in transportation systems, detailing key components and functionalities essential for effective maintenance management. The findings provide a roadmap for future innovations and improvements in DT applications within the transportation industry. This study ends with conclusions and future research directions.

Strategic Market Assessment for International Market Entry: A Comparative Analysis of Market Selection Criteria and Entry

This paper explores the strategic market assessment for international market entry, focusing on market selection criteria and entry strategies. It examines the factors influencing market selection, including economic stability, market size, competitive landscape, cultural compatibility, and regulatory environments. The study compares two primary international market entry strategies: alliances and acquisitions. It analyzes the benefits and challenges of each approach, particularly in managing risks and leveraging local market knowledge. The research also highlights the role of partnerships in emerging markets, where local expertise can be vital for successful market entry. Through case studies of companies such as Starbucks in China and Tata Motors' acquisition of Jaguar Land Rover, the paper illustrates how strategic market entry decisions can lead to sustainable competitive advantages. This comparative analysis offers insights for business leaders and policymakers aiming to expand into global markets.

A Complete Appraisal of Polymeric Micelle-Based Nanocarrier for Targeting Breast Cancer: Recent Strategies and Advancements

Aim/Objective: Polymeric micelle-based drug delivery systems have emerged as a beacon of hope in the challenging landscape of breast cancer therapy. This review aimed to explore the recent advancements and promising developments in the field, offering an in-depth analysis of their potential and challenges. The significance of this study lies in providing a comprehensive examination of the current advances in polymeric micelles technology, which have the potential to improve the efficiency and specificity of breast cancer therapy while minimizing adverse events. Methods: Polymeric micelles offer a revolutionary therapy by encapsulating therapeutic agents, allowing for controlled drug release and the precise targeting of malignant cells, while lowering systemic toxicity. Recent advances have focused on enhancing targeting strategies, including active and passive targeting, to increase the specificity of polymeric micelle-based therapies. A systematic review of literature was carried out using databases, like PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, which included papers published between 2010 and 2023. The selection criteria of the literature focused on the drug-loading capabilities and targeting strategies of the polymeric micelles, which could be advantageous for breast cancer treatment. Results: Clinical drug approaches leverage the versatility of micelles to co-deliver multiple agents, addressing the multifaceted nature of breast tumors and combating drug resistance. Additionally, polymeric micelles are finding applications in breast cancer diagnostics and imaging, enabling early detection and precise monitoring. The journey of polymeric micelle-based breast cancer therapy extends to formulation and engineering, preclinical and clinical studies, and confronts regulatory and commercialization challenges. However, the horizon is illuminated by emerging technologies, like personalized medicine, biomarker-driven targeting, and integration with novel therapies, promising a future where breast cancer treatment is tailored to individual patients and marked by improved efficacy and reduced side effects. Conclusion: In conclusion, this review underscores the transformative potential of polymeric micelle- based delivery systems in breast cancer therapy.

Assessing the Evidence for Nonobstetric Risk Factors for Deformational Plagiocephaly: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Plagiocephaly is defined as an asymmetrical distortion of the skull, resulting in an oblique trapezoid or parallelogram head shape. Deformational plagiocephaly (DP) is caused by forces acting on one side of the back of the head, distorting normal skull symmetry. The aims of this systematic review and meta-analysis were to critically assess the evidence for nonobstetric risk factors for DP and to make evidence-based recommendations for reducing the prevalence of DP. The selection criterion was studies reporting risk factors for DP. Case reviews, case series, expert opinions, and systematic reviews were excluded. PubMed and Web of Science were searched from August 21, 2010, to August 21, 2022. Publication bias was assessed using funnel plots. Meta-analyses were presented using forest plots. A total of 19 studies (cohort studies: n=13, 68%; case-control studies: n=5, 26%; and cross-sectional studies: n=1, 5%) with a total of 14,808 participants were included. Of the 43 investigated potential nonobstetric factors, 16 (37%) were associated with DP.Of these 16 factors, 12 (75%) had odds ratios (ORs) with 95% CIs not crossing 1: insufficient vitamin D intake (OR 7.15, 95% CI 3.77-13.54), head position preference (OR 4.75, 95% CI 3.36-6.73), bottle-only feeding (OR 4.65, 95% CI 2.70-8.00), reduced tummy time (OR 3.51, 95% CI 1.71-7.21), sleeping position (OR 3.12, 95% CI 2.21-4.39), fewer motor milestones reached by the age of 6 months (OR 2.56, 95% CI 1.66-3.96), obesity (OR 2.45, 95% CI 1.02-5.90), maternal education level (OR 1.66, 95% CI 1.17-2.37), male sex (OR 1.51, 95% CI 1.07-2.12), formula feeding (OR 1.51, 95% CI 1.00-2.27), head circumference (OR 1.22, 95% CI 1.06-1.40), and mechanical ventilation (OR 1.10, 95% CI 1.00-1.14). No evidence of publication bias was detected. This study provides a comprehensive assessment of the nonobstetric factors associated with DP and presents 11 evidence-based recommendations for reducing its prevalence. The primary limitation is that only publication bias was assessed. PROSPERO CRD42020204979; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php? ID=CRD42020204979.

Improving electrocardiographic imaging solutions: A comprehensive study on regularization parameter selection in L-curve optimization in the Atria

BackgroundIn electrocardiographic imaging (ECGI), selecting an optimal regularization parameter (λ) is crucial for obtaining accurate inverse electrograms. The effects of signal and geometry uncertainties on the inverse problem regularization have not been thoroughly quantified, and there is no established methodology to identify when λ is sub-optimal due to these uncertainties. This study introduces a novel approach to λ selection using Tikhonov regularization and L-curve optimization, specifically addressing the impact of electrical noise in body surface potential map (BSPM) signals and geometrical inaccuracies in the cardiac mesh. MethodsNineteen atrial simulations (5 of regular rhythms and 14 of atrial fibrillation) ensuring variability in substrate complexity and activation patterns were used for computing the ECGI with added white Gaussian noise from 40 dB to -3dB. Cardiac mesh displacements (1–3 cm) were applied to simulate the uncertainty of atrial positioning and study its impact on the L-curve shape. The regularization parameter, the maximum curvature, and the most horizontal angle of the L-curve (β) were quantified. In addition, BSPM signals from real patients were used to validate our findings. ResultsThe maximum curvature of the L-curve was found to be inversely related to signal-to-noise ratio and atrial positioning errors. In contrast, the β angle is directly related to electrical noise and remains unaffected by geometrical errors. Our proposed adjustment of λ, based on the β angle, provides a more reliable ECGI solution than traditional corner-based methods. Our findings have been validated with simulations and real patient data, demonstrating practical applicability. ConclusionAdjusting λ based on the amount of noise in the data (or on the β angle) allows finding optimal ECGI solutions than a λ purely found at the corner of the L-curve. It was observed that the relevant information in ECGI activation maps is preserved even under the presence of uncertainties when the regularization parameter is correctly selected. The proposed criteria for regularization parameter selection have the potential to enhance the accuracy and reliability of ECGI solutions.

Challenges related to clinical decision-making in hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence post-liver transplantation: Is there a hope?

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common liver malignancy and represents a serious cause of cancer-related mortality and morbidity. One of the favourable curative surgical therapeutic options for HCC is liver transplantation (LT) in selected patients fulfilling the known standard Milan/University of California San Francisco criteria which have shown better outcomes and longer-term survival. Despite careful adherence to the strict HCC selection criteria for LT in different transplant centres, the recurrence rate still occurs which could negatively affect HCC patients' survival. Hence HCC recurrence post-LT could predict patients' survival and prognosis, depending on the exact timing of recurrence after LT (early or late), and whether intra/extrahepatic HCC recurrence. Several factors may aid in such a complication, particularly tumour-related criteria including larger sizes, higher grades or poor tumour differentiation, microvascular invasion, and elevated serum alpha-fetoprotein. Therefore, managing such cases is challenging, different therapeutic options have been proposed, including curative surgical and ablative treatments that have shown better outcomes, compared to the palliative locoregional and systemic therapies, which may be helpful in those with unresectable tumour burden. To handle all these issues in our review.

Retrospective study on endoscopic treatment of recurrent esophageal cancer patients after radiotherapy.

Esophageal cancer poses a significant health burden globally. Endoscopic treatment has emerged as a viable option for patient ineligible for surgery or experiencing disease recurrence post-radiotherapy. Patients visiting the Department of Endoscopy at the Cancer Hospital of China Academy of Medical Sciences between March 2009 and March 2024 were retrospectively analyzed. Inclusion criteria encompassed patients with histologically confirmed esophageal cancer who had not undergone surgery, but received radiotherapy or CRT, and subsequently opted for endoscopic treatment. Data on demographics, treatment modalities, recurrence patterns, histopathological characteristics, and outcomes were collected. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS 27.0, employing Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests for data normality assessment. Out of 25 included patients, the mean age was 60.29years, with a predominance of males (88%). Most patients (64%) received chemoradiotherapy (CRT), while the rest underwent radiotherapy alone. The median follow-up duration was 50.92months, with a median recurrence time of 38.92months. Majority (56%) presented with a solitary lesion and 76% had negative margins. Histopathological analysis revealed various stages of cancer, with the most common being high-grade squamous epithelial neoplasia (64%). Survival analysis indicated a 72% overall survival rate, with 16% surviving beyond 5-year post-treatment. Approximately, 20% succumbed during the study, primarily due to non-esophageal causes (16%). Endoscopic treatment shows promise as a therapeutic option for selected esophageal cancer patients, offering favorable outcomes in terms of survival and disease control. Further prospective studies are warranted to validate these findings and optimize patient selection criteria for endoscopic interventions in esophageal cancer management.

Susceptibility Screening of HIV-1 Viruses to Broadly Neutralizing Antibodies, Teropavimab and Zinlirvimab, in People with HIV-1 Suppressed by Antiretroviral Therapy

Background: HIV envelope (env) diversity may result in resistance to broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs). Assessment of genotypic or phenotypic susceptibility to antiretroviral treatment is often performed in people with HIV-1 (PWH) and used for clinical trial screening for HIV-1 bNAb susceptibility. Optimal bNAb susceptibility screening methods are not yet clear. Methods: Phenotypic and genotypic analyses were conducted on 124 screening samples from a Phase 1b study of bNAbs teropavimab (3BNC117-LS) and zinlirvimab (10-1074-LS) administered with lenacapavir in virally suppressed PWH. Phenotypic analysis was conducted on integrated HIV-1 provirus and stimulated outgrowth virus, with susceptibility to bNAbs defined as 90% inhibitory concentration ≤2 μg/mL. The proviral DNA HIV env gene was genotyped using deep sequencing, and bNAb susceptibility predicted using published env amino acid signatures. Results: Proviral phenotypic results were reported for 109 of 124 samples; 75% (82/109) were susceptible to teropavimab, 65% (71/109) to zinlirvimab, and 50% (55/109) to both bNAbs. Phenotypic susceptibility of outgrowth viruses was available for 39 samples; 56% (22/39) were susceptible to teropavimab, and 64% (25/39) to zinlirvimab. Phenotypic susceptibilities correlated between these methods: teropavimab r = 0.82 (P<0.0001); zinlirvimab r = 0.77 (P<0.0001). Sixty-seven samples had genotypic and phenotypic data. Proviral genotypic signatures predicted proviral phenotypic susceptibility with high positive predictive value (68–86% teropavimab; 63–90% zinlirvimab). Conclusions: bNAb susceptibility was correlated among all three in-vitro assays used to determine teropavimab and zinlirvimab susceptibility in virally suppressed PWH. These findings may help refine PWH selection criteria for eligibility for future studies.

Chest tube size selection for pleural effusion: from the perspective of thoracic surgeons and pulmonologists

ABSTRACT Background The current discourse within the thoracic surgical and pulmonological communities pertains to a contentious debate over the optimal selection criteria for thoracostomy tube diameters utilized in the management of pleural effusions. A comprehensive examination of the variables that inform the clinical decision-making paradigm for the determination of appropriate chest tube calibers is imperative to enhance patient management and elevate the prognostic results. Objectives The objective of this inquiry is to elucidate the determinants that influence thoracic surgeons and pulmonologists in their selection of chest tube size for the management of pleural effusions. Methods This cross-sectional study was based on an electronic questionnaire that was sent to the targeted populations through e-mail or a professional WhatsApp. The survey assessed the considerations of chest tube size selection as well as the respective advantages, disadvantages, and potential complications related to each size. Results The conducted study encompassed participants, with a nearly even distribution between thoracic surgeons (49.1%) and pulmonologists (50.9%). Most of these practitioners are within tertiary-level medical institutions (82.1%). A preference for small-bore chest tubes (SBCT), defined as < 14 French (Fr), was indicated by 54.8% of participants. The drawbacks associated with SBCT, such as kinking (60%) and blockage (70%), influenced the decision-making process negatively, while pain was a significant factor in the selection against LBCT (64%). Ultrasound guidance was a positive influence for the selection of SBCT (55%). Complications associated with LBCT included visceral and vascular injuries (55.7%), wound infection (45.3%), re-expansion pulmonary edema (43.3%), and subcutaneous emphysema (57.5%). In contrast, malposition was a complication more commonly associated with SBCT (49.1%). Conclusion The decision regarding chest tube size was influenced by several critical factors which included the nature of pleural effusion, the volume of pleural fluid, and potential complications specific to the size of the chest tube used.

Comprehensive review of Korean Medicine registries 2015–2023

BackgroundDespite the increasing popularity of Korean Medicine (KM), its scientific evidence faces scrutiny. Instead of randomized controlled trials, registries are favored to capture the real world of KM practice due to the difficulties associated with proper control and the holistic nature of the KM approach. This review aimed to examine the KM registries in detail, identify the scope and focus of studies within this field, and assess the research trends.MethodsWe conducted a comprehensive analysis of KM registries listed in trial registration platforms, covering records from their inception until the end of 2023. The selection criteria aimed to include studies focusing on various interventions related to KM, with data extraction focusing on study characteristics and outcomes measured. The analysis utilized descriptive statistics to summarize the findings.ResultsWe identified a steady increase in registry studies (2015, one; 2023, seven). Musculoskeletal disorders were most studied (28%), aligning with patients’ demand. The involvement of 112 primary clinics and Quality of Life (QOL) as the predominant outcome in 14 (66.7%) registries demonstrates the positive impact on patient well-being and the critical role that primary clinics play in KM practice.ConclusionOur findings indicate a heightened interest and commitment to evidence-based KM practices. Future Registries should be implemented on a large scale, incorporating long-term follow-up encompassing primary clinics. This approach would enable a comprehensive evaluation of the effectiveness and safety of KM interventions, as well as offer valuable insights into the influence of KM on chronic conditions and QOL.

Computer-Aided Synthesis Planning (CASP) and Machine Learning: Optimizing Chemical Reaction Conditions.

Computer-aided synthesis planning (CASP) has garnered increasing attention in light of recent advancements in machine learning models. While the focus is on reverse synthesis or forward outcome prediction, optimizing reaction conditions remains a significant challenge. For datasets with multiple variables, the choice of descriptors and models is pivotal. This selection dictates the effective extraction of conditional features and the achievement of higher prediction accuracy. This review delineates the origins of data in conditional optimization, the criteria for descriptor selection, the response models, and the metrics for outcome evaluation, aiming to acquaint readers with the latest research trends and facilitate more informed research in this domain.

Model‐based clustering in simple hypergraphs through a stochastic blockmodel

AbstractWe propose a model to address the overlooked problem of node clustering in simple hypergraphs. Simple hypergraphs are suitable when a node may not appear multiple times in the same hyperedge, such as in co‐authorship datasets. Our model generalizes the stochastic blockmodel for graphs and assumes the existence of latent node groups and hyperedges are conditionally independent given these groups. We first establish the generic identifiability of the model parameters. We then develop a variational approximation Expectation‐Maximization algorithm for parameter inference and node clustering, and derive a statistical criterion for model selection. To illustrate the performance of our R package HyperSBM, we compare it with other node clustering methods using synthetic data generated from the model, as well as from a line clustering experiment and a co‐authorship dataset.

Perioperative outcomes of same-day discharge laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass using the MBSAQIP database.

There has been a rising trend of outpatient bariatric surgery, particularly accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and outcomes of same-day discharge laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) using the MBSAQIP database. In this retrospective study, the MBSAQIP was queried for patients undergoing non-revisional LRYGB between 2020 and 2021. Two cohorts were established: same-day discharge (SDD; length of stay = 0days) and next-day discharge (POD1; length of stay = 1day), with the latter serving as a control group. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression were employed to compare outcomes between cohorts. A total of 48,408 patients underwent LRYGB, with 1,918 (4.0%) SDD and 46,490 (96.0%) POD1. The two cohorts were similar in mean age (SDD 44.2 ± 11.3years vs POD1 44.0 ± 11.3years; p = 0.61) and female sex (SDD 83.8% vs POD1 83.1%; p = 0.43). However, the POD1 cohort had a higher preoperative body mass index (45.4 ± 7.3 vs 44.9 ± 7.3kg/m2; p < 0.01). Preoperative anticoagulation and obstructive sleep apnea were more prevalent in the POD1 group. There was no difference in overall 30-day overall complication rates (SDD 2.0% vs POD1 2.3%; p = 0.51), reintervention, reoperations, mortality, and emergency department visits between the two cohorts. Readmissions were lower in the SDD cohort (2.9% vs 4.0%; p = 0.02), whereas the need for outpatient intravenous hydration was higher in the SDD cohort (6.7% vs 3.6%; p < 0.01). This finding remained significant even after adjustment for confounders. Same-day LRYGB is safe and feasible, with comparable complication rates to next-day discharge. Notably, SDD is associated with lower readmission rate and higher need for outpatient intravenous hydration, possibly reflecting rigorous bariatric protocols and thorough patient follow-up. Further investigations are warranted to elucidate the selection criteria and optimize postoperative care for outpatient LRYGB.

Trilateral game and vertical collaboration models in a two-stage green supply chain with substitutable green products

This paper explores the trilateral game and vertical collaboration model based on Stackelberg’s (manufacturer-leadership game) and Bertrand’s game-theoretical methodology for a two-stage green supply chain where the duopolistic manufacturers and the retailer are ecologically conscious. Both manufacturers produce and sell two substitutable green products through a common retailer. The selling prices and green levels (GLs) determine the demand for both green products. A game theoretical approach is implemented in the trilateral game model, and the result shows that the manufacturer with a bigger sales volume achieves superior performance in terms of earnings. In the vertical collaboration model, a manufacturer and retailer collaborate to optimize pricing issues, GLs, and profits. Two-player games among three participants are performed for this collaboration. The results of the vertical collaboration model show that the overall profit in vertical collaboration is greater than the sum of the individual profits corresponding to two participants in the trilateral game model. Whereas, the manufacturer outside the collaboration experiences a decline in profits. Further, a selection criterion of manufacturers is also developed to maximize the overall profit of the retailer. Finally, a numerical example and a sensitivity analysis are performed to demonstrate the model’s implementation and stability.

Effect of SGLT2 inhibitors on kidney function of type 2 diabetes patients during Ramadan: A systematic review.

SGLT2 inhibitors are known for their osmotic diuretic effect, and their use by Muslim patients with type 2 diabetes during the fasting month of Ramadan may pose an increased risk of volume depletion, potentially impacting renal function. We conducted a systematic review registered on PROSPERO (registration number CRD42020204582) of studies published between 2013 and January 2023, sourced from PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. The study selection criteria included controlled studies that reported the use of SGLT2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) by fasting adult type 2 diabetes patients and provided data on creatinine or estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) as outcomes. Two prospective observational studies, encompassing a total of 359 participants, of which 197 utilized SGLT2 inhibitors, were identified. Our findings indicated that the use of SGLT2 inhibitors during Ramadan did not result in a significant alteration in eGFR. In one study by Hassanein et al., the mean changes in eGFR for the SGLT2i group, as compared to the non-SGLT2i group, were -1.2 ± 19.4 and 3.1 ± 14.8, respectively (p = 0.06). In a study by Shao et al., the least squares mean changes for eGFR in the SGLT2i group, compared to the non-SGLT2i group, were -6.0 ± 1.5 (95% CI, -8.9 to -3.1) and -4.2 ± 1.6 (95% CI, -7.3 to -1.1), respectively (p = 0.39). Despite the limited number of observational studies available, our analysis suggests that the use of SGLT2 inhibitors by type 2 diabetes patients during Ramadan does not appear to significantly impact kidney function.

Derivation of Splenic Stiffness in Subjects with Normal Liver Stiffness and No Vascular Liver Disease Using Transient Elastography with a Spleen-Dedicated Module: A Large Cross Sectional Study.

Liver and splenic stiffness measurements (LSM and SSM) are useful to predict varices and clinical decompensation in cirrhosis. SSM values are highly variable and overlapping and no guidelines exists on what constitutes normal SSM, that might limit interpretation of results. Consecutive subjects with LSM < 6 kPa and reliable SSM (FibroScan630 Expert device with spleen-dedicated module) and no vascular liver disease were analysed for significant correlations of SSM values with age, sex, BMI, portal and splenic vein diameter, splenic diameter, liver fat and diabetes. Based on timeline of SSM, subjects were randomly assigned in 70:30 ratio into derivation [n = 502] and validation subset [n = 214]. Of 7200 subjects with simultaneous reliable LSM and SSM, 715 fulfilled the selection criteria (mean age: 43.8 ± 12.8years, 67.2% male, mean BMI-26.4 ± 4.5kg/m2). The mean SSM was 22.6 ± 5.8kPa (c10-c90 percentile range: 15.2-31.3kPa) and followed the normal distribution curve. In the derivation subset, mean SSM for males was higher than female (23.06 ± 6.2vs. 21.78 ± 5.93kPa; p = 0.028). SSM value correlated with LSM (r = 0.454, p = 0.001). Mean SSM in subjects with LSM 3-4, 4.1-5 and 5.1-6kPa were 21.7 ± 5.8, 22.27 ± 5.67and 23.76 ± 5.88kPa (p value = 0.001). There was no difference in SSM based on age, BMI, diabetes and liver fat on ultrasound. Above results hold true for subjects in validation subset. SSM range in subjects with normal LSM and no vascular liver disease using spleen-dedicated module varies from 15.2 to 31.3kPa, values being higher in male and not affected by Age, BMI, spleen size, liver fat and diabetes. Our results may serve as reference point in evaluation of SSM in compensated advanced liver disease patients.

Do autism and psychopathy co-occur? A systematic review and clinical discussion.

Although the prevalence is unknown, psychopathy can be a possible co-occurring condition associated with autism especially among forensic populations. However, the relationship between these two conditions remains poorly understood. To carry out a systematic review of the available literature exploring the relationship between autism and psychopathy. A systematic literature review following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines using terms for autism and psychopathy to search the literature databases Scopus, Pubmed, Web of Science, ASSIA, APA Psych Info, Medline and EMBASE from 1980 to March 2024. For inclusion, we required that a recognised measure of autism and psychopathy or associated features of the latter had been used. Of the 4230 potential articles identified, 37 met the selection criteria. Insufficient and inconsistent methodologies for data pooling meant that a narrative analysis was used. Although there is some overlap, four broad themes emerged relating to (1) assessment and frequency of co-occurrence, (2) behavioural and neurophysiological expressions of empathy, (3) behavioural contagion effects, mirroring, mimicry and other linking mechanisms and (4) emotional face perception and theory of mind characteristics. Within these areas there are some specific differences between the two conditions. However, the research to date examining the relationship between autism and psychopathy has mostly been with children and males, carried out with non-clinical non-forensic populations, as well as using self-report measures and parental ratings. Prior research has also largely focused on looking for differences between these conditions rather than co-occurrence. This review outlines a case for considering autism and psychopathy as distinct, but potentially co-occurring conditions and highlights the need for more research into how the two conditions interact with clinical populations. There also appears to be a need for guidelines on when and how to assess psychopathy with autistic individuals and a better understanding of the therapeutic needs and factors influencing the long-term outcomes of autistic individuals who may also present with co-occurring psychopathy.