bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The board gender diversity imitation game: Uncovering the resistant boards that refuse to play
Authors: Mateos de Cabo Ruth , Gimeno Ricardo , Gabaldón Patricia , Grau Pilar
Published: February 2024

Research question/issue

This study examines the influence of group behavior on board gender diversity and identifies obstacles to its diffusion. It investigates whether boards are influenced by group behavior in determining their gender composition and explores barriers that impede the diffusion process.

Research findings/insights

Analyzing a network of over 18,000 US‐listed boards observed over 20 years, we find a pattern of mimetic behavior, whereby boards imitate the proportion of women on boards (WoB) among their directly tied boards. We also identify resistant firms with low representation of women on their boards. Our findings suggest that, among those boards, there are heavily male‐dominated boards resisting the appointment of women, even when surrounded by women directors among their tied boards. The diffusion of board gender diversity is slowed down by these resistant boards, hindering the overall progress in increasing gender diversity within the board network.

Theoretical/academic implications

This research contributes insights into group behavior and resistance in board gender diversity. Adopting a network theory lens, our study sheds light on interactions between firms and their connected companies in terms of imitation practices. Drawing on social identity theory, we highlight the significance of the resistance to increasing women's representation exhibited by some boards.

Practitioner/policy implications

Resistant boards, despite group pressure, slow down the diffusion of board gender diversity within the network, leading to overall stagnation. Understanding the sources of resistance allows an exploration of alternative measures to promote diversity without rigid mandates.
Resting strain analysis to identify myocardial ischemia in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease
Authors: Tsartsalis Dimitrios , Dimitroglou Yannis , Kalompatsou Argyro , Koukos Markos , Patsourakos Dimitrios , Tolis Elias , Tzoras Spiros , Petras Dimitrios , Tsioufis Costas , Aggeli Constantina
Published: February 2024

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with higher incidence of cardiovascular death. Screening for coronary artery disease in asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic patients is challenging.

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the incremental value of resting deformation analysis in predicting positive results for myocardial ischemia during stress transthoracic echocardiography in patients with end‐stage CKD.

Methods

Sixty‐one patients (mean age: 62.3 ± 11.8, 65.7% men) with end‐stage CKD were included in the study. Patients underwent a resting transthoracic echocardiogram and a dobutamine stress contrast echo (DSE) protocol. Positive results of DSE were defined as stress‐induced left ventricular (LV) wall motion abnormalities.

Results

The study cohort had normal or mildly impaired systolic function: mean LV ejection fraction (EF) was 49.2% (±10.4) and mean LV global longitudinal strain (GLS) was 14.4% (±4.5). Half of our population had impaired left atrial (LA) strain: mean LA reservoir, conduit, and contractile reserve were 24.1% (±12.6), 10.6% (±5.9), and 13.6% (±9.2), respectively. DSE was positive for ischemia in 55.7%. A significant negative association with DSE results was found for LV EF, LV GLS and the conduit phase of LA strain. Both LV and LA dimensions showed positive correlation with presence of ischemia in DSE. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that LV GLS was independently associated with DSE (p = 0.007), after controlling for covariates, with high diagnostic accuracy.

Conclusion

Resting LV deformation could predict positive results during DSE, thus may be useful to better identify renal patients who might benefit from coronary artery screening.
A rare etiology of frequent ventricular ectopy: Embolic complication of a venous iliac stent to the right ventricle
Authors: Sanchez Christy , Torres Christian , Ujueta Francisco , Mandava Sri , Tolentino Alfonso , Titano Joseph J. , LaPietra Angelo , Mihos Christos G.
Published: February 2024

Peripheral venous stent migration is an exceedingly rare complication of endovascular stenting. In this clinical vignette, we present a case of a 74‐year‐old male with a history of endo‐venous laser ablation therapy of the right greater saphenous vein complicated with an occlusion requiring a left iliac vein stent. The patient presented to the clinic months after the procedure with complaints of palpitations. Multimodality imaging revealed a stent that had become dislodged and was now located in the right ventricle, trapped within the tricuspid valve apparatus.
Life‐history connections to long‐term fish population trends in a species‐rich temperate river
Authors: Nagy Andrew J. , Freeman Mary C. , Irwin Brian J. , Wenger Seth J.
Published: February 2024

Fishes exhibit a diverse range of traits encompassing life‐history strategies, feeding behaviours and spawning behaviours. These traits mediate fish population responses to changing environmental conditions such as those caused by anthropogenic stressors. The Conasauga River, located in northwestern Georgia and southeastern Tennessee, USA, hosts a diverse assemblage of over 75 species of freshwater fish, some of which are locally or regionally endemic, and many of which are imperilled. Annual monitoring data have shown population declines in multiple fish species of conservation concern in the Conasauga River since at least the 1990s, raising the possibility that other taxa could be declining as well. We quantified temporal changes in fish communities at six shoal sites sampled annually in most years from 1996 to 2022, and asked whether species traits hypothesized to underlie population vulnerability to environmental alteration were correlated with species‐specific trends for 32 taxa. We estimated that total counts of fish in annual samples declined by ~2% per year, although declines were uneven among species and generally greater for less abundant taxa. Tests for species traits corresponding to temporal population trends provided evidence that crevice‐spawning minnows and smaller‐bodied taxa had steeper declines compared with broadcast spawners and larger, longer‐lived, more fecund taxa. Lower abundance, reliance on a particular habitat feature, and life‐history traits that may limit population resilience to disturbance may all prove useful for identifying riverine fishes at particular risk of future population decline.
First episode psychosis caregiver perspectives on motivational interviewing for loved ones training: A qualitative study
Authors: Ipekci Bediha , Thibeau Heather , Barnard Emily , Keshavan Matcheri S. , Bye Akansha Vaswani , Kline Emily R.
Published: February 2024

Background

Past research has found that family involvement in psychosis treatment leads to better patient outcomes. Thus, caregiver communication skills training can be a viable approach to reducing caregiver stress and increasing self‐efficacy and communication.

Aim

The purpose of this qualitative study was to describe family caregivers' perceptions of changes in themselves and their family member with psychosis following their participation in Motivational Interviewing in Loved Ones (MILO), a brief four to five‐hour psychoeducational intervention for caregivers.

Methods

Sixty‐three participants in the MILO trials provided written qualitative responses to the prompt, “Since learning the ideas and techniques in this course, what is the most significant change you noticed in yourself, your family, or your relationships?” Responses were collected immediately following MILO participation and 12 weeks later. Qualitative themes were identified through an iterative consensus process.

Results

Most participants reported positive changes in multiple domains of their lives. Major themes included: (1) Changes in Self, (2) Changes in Relationships, (3) Changes in Mindset, (4) Use of MILO Skills, and (5) Challenges.

Conclusion

Qualitative results support and add context to the previously reported quantitative results from this study. MILO is a promising family intervention that positively influenced family environment and communication in pilot trials. Adaptations of MILO for families outside of a highly educated North American context should be considered.
Addressing the gap of early intervention for eating disorders in primary health care
Authors: Radunz Marcela , Pritchard Luke , Steen Eloisa , Williamson Paul , Wade Tracey D.
Published: February 2024

Aim

Only one in four individuals with eating disorders (EDs) seek help, with many barriers to treatment‐seeking present. Placing an early intervention model in primary mental health care settings is one approach to reducing these barriers. To date, only one model (emerge‐ED) has been evaluated in the literature.

Methods

We aimed to replicate findings from the initial emerge‐ED evaluation. We report on treatment outcomes in a new cohort and their views on barriers to treatment‐seeking. We then examine how this early intervention model in primary health care has evolved to overcome the barriers to treatment delivery cited by health professionals in the initial evaluation.

Results

Eighty participants commenced treatment between July 2020 and March 2022 and completed a mean of 8.98 sessions, 70 (87.5%) completed >1 sessional measure on ED cognitions and behaviours, but only 31% (n = 24) completed lengthier assessments. Findings replicated initial emerge‐ED outcomes, with small to moderate effect size decreases in the ED sessional measure at 70 days since treatment commencement for cognitions (d = .63) and ED behaviours (d = .09., .69). The most cited barrier by participants was “belief that my problem is not bad enough”, reflective of denial of illness. Lastly, to overcome barriers to treatment delivery clinicians had to deviate from treatment protocols and work collaboratively with other healthcare providers.

Conclusions

Our findings replicated the initial emerge‐ED evaluation and highlight the importance of considering primary health care settings as an essential site in delivering early intervention services for EDs.
Mutualisms drive plant trait evolution beyond interaction‐related traits
Authors: Burin Gustavo , Campbell Laura C. E. , Renner Susanne S. , Kiers E. Toby , Chomicki Guillaume
Published: February 2024

Mutualisms have driven the evolution of extraordinary structures and behavioural traits, but their impact on traits beyond those directly involved in the interaction remains unclear. We addressed this gap using a highly evolutionarily replicated system – epiphytes in the Rubiaceae forming symbioses with ants. We employed models that allow us to test the influence of discrete mutualistic traits on continuous non‐mutualistic traits. Our findings are consistent with mutualism shaping the pace of morphological evolution, strength of selection and long‐term mean of non‐mutualistic traits in function of mutualistic dependency. While specialised and obligate mutualisms are associated with slower trait change, less intimate, facultative and generalist mutualistic interactions – which are the most common – have a greater impact on non‐mutualistic trait evolution. These results challenge the prevailing notion that mutualisms solely affect the evolution of interaction‐related traits via stabilizing selection and instead demonstrate a broader role for mutualisms in shaping trait evolution.
IGFBP‐rP1 is a potential therapeutic target in androgenic alopecia
Authors: Zhou Lijuan , Hu Ruiming , Sheng Youyu , Wang Xuchao , Qi Sisi , Zhao Jun , Miao Ying , Zhao Ying , Xu Feng , Wu Wenyu , Lu Zhongfa , Yang Qinping
Published: February 2024

The available interventions for androgenic alopecia (AGA), the most common type of hair loss worldwide, remain limited. The insulin growth factor (IGF) system may play an important role in the pathogenesis of AGA. However, the exact role of IGF binding protein‐related protein 1 (IGFBP‐rP1) in hair growth and AGA has not been reported. In this study, we first found periodic variation in IGFBP‐rP1 during the hair cycle transition in murine hair follicles (HFs). We further demonstrated that IGFBP‐rP1 levels were lower in the serum and scalp HFs of individuals with AGA than in those of healthy controls. Subsequently, we verified that IGFBP‐rP1 had no cytotoxicity to human outer root sheath cells (HORSCs) and that IGFBP‐rP1 reversed the inhibitory effects of DHT on the migration of HORSCs in vitro. Finally, a DHT‐induced AGA mouse model was created. The results revealed that the expression of IGFBP‐rP1 in murine HFs was downregulated after DHT treatment and that subcutaneous injection of IGFBP‐rP1 delayed catagen occurrence and prolonged the anagen phase of HFs in mice with DHT‐induced AGA. The present work shows that IGFBP‐rP1 is involved in hair cycle transition and exhibits great therapeutic potential for AGA.
Stakeholder perception towards a machine‐learning‐based digital platform for detection and management of autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Kohli Manu , Kar Arpan Kumar , Sinha Shuchi , Kohli Swati
Published: February 2024

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects approximately 1% of the population, presenting a significant healthcare challenge due to limited resources, particularly a shortage of clinicians, which impedes timely ASD detection and management in children. This study investigates stakeholder viewpoints regarding the effectiveness of integrating machine learning (ML) into the information and communications technology (ICT) platform for ASD detection and intervention. Primary stakeholders, including parents and clinicians, provide first hand experiences with this technology during and after the COVID‐19 pandemic. The research identifies critical technology adoption factors by synthesizing stakeholder input based on user experiences, technology design, technology utility, and its impact. Additionally, the study gathers insights from potential investors interested in assistive technologies. Stakeholders unanimously acknowledge the pivotal role of technology in enhancing current ASD detection and management. However, their attitudes toward technology adoption exhibit divergent trends during and after the COVID‐19 pandemic. The study highlights a shift toward a technology‐enabled, human‐centred framework, which gained prominence post‐pandemic. Various factors contributing to this shift in stakeholder perspective were identified, including caregiver stress, technostress, and pandemic‐induced environmental factors affecting stakeholders’ stress levels and motivating them to shift towards a human‐centric model. Stakeholders emphasize the paramount importance of human‐centred approaches in ASD detection and intervention, with technology serving as an empowering tool. Stakeholders also highlight the imperative ethical and legal considerations to foster trust and enhance the adoption of ML‐based technology. Consequently, future research should delve into stakeholder perspectives within the framework of fairness, accountability, transparency, and ethics (FATE) to ensure these technologies’ responsible development and implementation.
Exploring deep learning techniques for illuminance estimation
Authors: Vélez Bedoya Jairo Iván , González Bedia Manuel , Ossa Luis Fernando Castillo , Arango‐López Jeferson , Díaz‐Arancibia Jaime
Published: February 2024

In recent years, deep learning techniques had a revolutionary impact on several domains, including computer vision and image processing. This research paper focuses on exploring deep learning methods to achieve precise illuminance estimation, which holds significant importance in applications such as augmented reality, virtual reality, and photography. However, accurately estimating illuminance in complex scenes continues to pose challenges due to the intricate interplay between light sources, objects, and surfaces. The results of extensive experimentation demonstrate the immense potential of deep learning techniques in illuminance estimation. These techniques exhibit promising accuracy and robustness, enabling them to handle diverse scenarios effectively. The valuable insights derived from this study can serve as a guiding framework for future research endeavours and contribute to the development of efficient and precise methodologies for illuminance estimation across a wide range of practical applications.
Detection of NADH and NADPH levels in vivo identifies shift of glucose metabolism in cancer to energy production
Authors: Potapova Elena V. , Zherebtsov Evgenii A. , Shupletsov Valery V. , Dremin Viktor V. , Kandurova Ksenia Y. , Mamoshin Andrian V. , Abramov Andrey Y. , Dunaev Andrey V.
Published: February 2024

Profound changes in the metabolism of cancer cells have been known for almost 100 years, and many aspects of these changes have continued to be actively studied and discussed. Differences in the results of various studies can be explained by the diversity of tumours, which have differing processes of energy metabolism, and by limitations in the methods used. Here, using fluorescence lifetime needle optical biopsy in a hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) mouse model and patients with HCC, we measured reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) and reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) in control liver, and in HCC tumours and their adjacent regions. We found that NADH level (mostly responsible for energy metabolism) is increased in tumours but also in adjacent regions of the same liver. NADPH level is significantly decreased in the tumours of patients but increased in the HCC mouse model. However, in the ex vivo tumour slices of mouse HCC, reactive oxygen species production and glutathione level (both dependent on NADPH) were significantly suppressed. Thus, glucose‐dependent NADH and NADPH production in tumours changed but with a more pronounced shift to energy production (NADH), rather than NADPH synthesis for redox balance.
Microstructural damage assessment in alloy 617M near high cycle fatigue threshold at elevated temperature
Authors: Kale Sandeep , Thawre M. M. , Peshwe D. R. , Nagesha A. , Sarkar Aritra , Dandekar Tushar R.
Published: February 2024

High cycle fatigue (HCF) behavior of Ni superalloy 617M is investigated at 973 K and R‐ratio −1 on a resonance‐based fatigue testing system at 85 Hz frequency. The alloy experiences an abrupt drop in fatigue life within a narrow domain of 2.5–5 MPa near its fatigue strength at 320 MPa. Electron microscopy and diffraction techniques were employed to thoroughly analyze the nominal fatigue damage. The characterization revealed the significance of precipitation of secondary phases M23C6, Ti (C, N), and γ′ phase in dictating the HCF strength of the alloy. Cyclic loading at high temperature causes γ‐matrix hardening and secondary phase precipitation synergistically strengthening the material beyond its yield strength. Conjunctively, dynamic strain aging was also seen to play a major role in the evolution of fatigue damage. The work highlights the collective contribution of γ′‐phase precipitation, carbides, and dynamic strain aging and their influence on the HCF behavior of alloy 617M.
A comparative study of several life prediction models based on the critical plane approach for fretting fatigue crack initiation
Authors: Shu Yiliang , Yang Guangxue , Liu Zhiming , Hu Weigang
Published: February 2024

To reasonably forecast the crack initiation characteristics of fretting fatigue, this study evaluates the accuracy of several damage models. The existing experimental and simulation investigations are compared, noting the similarities and differences in the crack initiation location, crack orientation angle, and crack initiation life predicted by various damage models. It is crucial to employ a reasonable and reasonable damage prediction model of fretting crack initiation life, as fretting fatigue, a phenomenon of mechanically fastened connecting parts, can considerably reduce the fretting fatigue life of the components. This paper compares the fatigue damage prediction models of fretting fatigue specimens under partial slip conditions, and it will help researchers understand the benefits and drawbacks of various damage models and give them the knowledge and foundation to select the more reasonable fretting fatigue damage model.
Effect of energy input on fatigue crack growth behavior of titanium alloy Ti6Al4V made by WAAM‐CMT
Authors: El Hassanin Andrea , Campatelli Gianni , Sepe Raffaele , Silvestri Alessia Teresa , Squillace Antonino
Published: February 2024

This work deals with the investigation and characterization of Ti6Al4V parts produced with an intriguing manufacturing process belonging to the Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) family: the Cold Metal Transfer technology (CMT). Wall‐shaped parts were produced according to different process parameters, namely the wire feed speed and voltage–current combinations, leading to different energy inputs. The parts were characterized in terms of surface morphology, microhardness, microstructure, tensile properties, and fatigue crack growth. The results suggested that the investigated deposition parameters led to similar results. Moreover, the mechanical and fatigue crack growth behavior was in line with parts of the same alloy produced through other manufacturing routes, whereas the microstructure type was the result of the fast cooling of the molten material. Finally, considering the simple system adopted to avoid oxidation during the deposition stage, the results suggested that CMT is a promising manufacturing technique for titanium alloy semifinished parts.
Long‐term safety and efficacy outcomes of valoctocogene roxaparvovec gene transfer up to 6 years post‐treatment
Authors: Symington Emily , Rangarajan Savita , Lester Will , Madan Bella , Pierce Glenn F. , Raheja Priyanka , Robinson Tara M. , Osmond Dane , Russell Chris B. , Vettermann Christian , Agarwal Suresh K. , Li Mingjin , Wong Wing Yen , Laffan Michael
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Valoctocogene roxaparvovec uses an adeno‐associated virus serotype 5 (AAV5) vector to transfer a factor VIII (FVIII) coding sequence to individuals with severe haemophilia A, providing bleeding protection.

Aim

To assess safety and efficacy of valoctocogene roxaparvovec 5‒6 years post‐treatment.

Methods

In a phase 1/2 trial, adult male participants with severe haemophilia A (FVIII ≤1 IU/dL) without FVIII inhibitors or anti‐AAV5 antibodies received valoctocogene roxaparvovec and were followed for 6 (6 × 1013 vg/kg; n = 7) and 5 (4 × 1013 vg/kg; n = 6) years. Safety, including investigation of potential associations between a malignancy and gene therapy, and efficacy are reported.

Results

No new treatment‐related safety signals emerged. During year 6, a participant in the 6 × 1013 vg/kg cohort was diagnosed with grade 2 parotid gland acinar cell carcinoma; definitive treatment was uncomplicated parotidectomy with lymph node dissection. Target enrichment sequencing of tumour and adjacent healthy tissue revealed low vector integration (8.25 × 10−5 per diploid cell). Integrations were not elevated in tumour samples, no insertions appeared to drive tumorigenesis, and no clonal expansion of integration‐containing cells occurred. During all follow‐ups, >90% decreases from baseline in annualised treated bleeds and FVIII infusion rates were maintained. At the end of years 6 and 5, mean FVIII activity (chromogenic assay) was 9.8 IU/dL (median, 5.6 IU/dL) and 7.6 IU/dL (median, 7.1 IU/dL) for the 6 × 1013 and 4 × 1013 vg/kg cohorts, respectively, representing proportionally smaller year‐over‐year declines than earlier timepoints.

Conclusions

Valoctocogene roxaparvovec safety and efficacy profiles remain largely unchanged; genomic investigations showed no association with a parotid tumour.
Knowledge gaps in health‐related quality of life research performed in children with bleeding disorders – A scoping review
Authors: Huisman Elise J. , Mussert Caroline , Bai Guannan , Raat Hein , Cnossen Marjon H.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Bleeding disorders (BDs) may influence health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) in children and caregivers. Measuring HRQoL gives insight into domains requiring support and provides an opportunity to evaluate the effects of novel therapies.

Aim

To gain insight in the current body of literature on HRQoL in children with BDs in order to identify knowledge gaps for research and further development of this field.

Methods

Scoping review.

Results

We included 53 articles, describing studies mainly performed in Europe and North–America (60.4%) and mostly within the last ten years. Only 32% studies included children <4 years. Almost all studies (47/53, 88.7%) were performed in boys with haemophilia, pooling haemophilia A and B (n = 21) and different disease severities (n = 20). Thirteen different generic and five disease‐specific HRQoL‐questionnaires were applied; all questionnaires were validated for haemophilia specifically. Six (11,3%) combined generic and disease‐specific questionnaires. Self‐reports were most frequently applied (40/53, 75.5%), sometimes combined with proxy and/or parent‐reports (17/53, 32.1%). Eleven studies used a reference group (20.8%). Statistical analyses mostly consisted of mean and SD (77.4%).

Conclusion

HRQoL‐research is mainly performed in school‐aged boys with haemophilia, treated in developed countries. Pitfalls encountered are the pooling of various BDs, subtypes and severities, as well as the application of multiple generic questionnaires prohibiting comparison of results. More attention is needed for broader study populations including other BDs, young children, feminine bleeding issues and platelet disorders, as well as the use of HRQoL as an effect‐measurement tool for medical interventions, and more thorough statistical analysis.
Drivers of compositional turnover in narrow‐ranged and widespread dragonflies and damselflies in Africa
Authors: Basel Ashleigh M. , Simaika John P. , Samways Michael J. , Midgley Guy F. , Latombe Guillaume , MacFadyen Sandra , Hui Cang
Published: February 2024

We aim to explore what processes dominate community assembly of dragonflies (Odonata: Anisoptera) and damselflies (Odonata: Zygoptera) by differentiating the environmental and geographical drivers behind compositional turnover of narrow‐ranged versus widespread species. In this way, we further aim to describe patterns of species incidence and compositional turnover to expand upon the body of knowledge related to understanding biodiversity patterns and processes.

We explored species turnover of dragonflies and damselflies separately, using zeta diversity to measure compositional turnover among multiple assemblages.

Narrow‐ranged and widespread species within each suborder showed similar drivers. Specifically, both narrow‐ranged and widespread dragonflies show rapid turnover with small shifts in annual mean temperature, temperature seasonality and annual precipitation, whereas for damselflies, the major driver for turnover is distance between sites followed by climatic variables. Our results therefore show that odonate turnover is largely driven by climate, although the limited dispersal capabilities of damselflies also influences community assembly.

Climate change could cause major changes in composition of odonates, presenting a challenge for conservation planning in Africa as species assemblages that were previously conserved may no longer be protected if their ranges shift outside protected areas. For damselflies, adaptation is a major concern, and with their limited dispersal capabilities and climate sensitivity, they may not be able to migrate effectively in response to changing climate conditions. The underlying assembly processes do not differ considerably for narrow‐ranged and widespread species within each suborder, suggesting that conservation planning tailored to each suborder may be sufficient in Africa.
Final irrigation with bioglass solution in regenerative endodontic procedure induces tissue formation inside the root canals, collagen maturation, proliferation cell and presence of osteocalcin
Authors: de Paula Kiani dos Santos , dos Reis‐Prado Alexandre Henrique , de Jesus Witalo Pereira , Goto Juliana , de Arantes Lara Cancella , Verçosa Marina , Cintra Luciano Tavares Angelo , Ervolino Edilson , Szawka Raphael Escorsim , Crovace Murilo Camuri , de Mesquita Ricardo Alves , Benetti Francine
Published: February 2024

Aim

To evaluate the influence of an experimental solution of cobalt‐doped F18 bioactive glass (F18Co) on tissue repair following regenerative endodontic procedure (REP) in rat molars.

Methodology

The F18Co solution was prepared at a ratio of 1:5 F18Co powder to distilled water. The right or left upper first molars of 12 Wistar rats were used, where the pulps were exposed, removed, and irrigated with 2.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), followed by 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) (5 min each). Subsequently, the molars were divided into two groups (n = 6): REP‐SS and REP‐F18Co, where they received a final irrigation (5 min) with saline solution (SS) or F18Co solution, respectively. Then, intracanal bleeding was induced, and the tooth was sealed. Untreated molars were used as controls (n = 3). At 21 days, the rats were euthanized, and the specimens were processed for analysis of mineralized tissue and soft tissue formation inside the root canal using haematoxylin‐eosin. The presence and maturation of collagen were evaluated by Masson's trichrome and picrosirius red staining. Immunolabelling analyses of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and osteocalcin (OCN) were performed. The data were submitted to the Mann–Whitney U‐test (p < .05).

Results

There was a similar formation of mineralized tissue in thickness and length in REP‐SS and REP‐F18Co groups (p > .05). Regarding the presence of newly formed soft tissue, most specimens of the REP‐F18Co had tissue formation up to the cervical third of the canal, whilst the REP‐SS specimens showed formation up to the middle third (p < .05), and there was higher maturation of collagen in REP‐F18Co (p < .05). The number of PCNA‐positive cells found in the apical third of the root canal was significantly higher in the F18Co group, as well as the OCN immunolabelling, which was severe in most specimens of REP‐F18Co, and low in most specimens of REP‐SS.

Conclusion

The final irrigation with F18Co bioactive glass solution in REP did not influence mineralized tissue formation but induced soft tissue formation inside the root canals, with higher collagen maturation, and an increase in PCNA‐positive cells and OCN immunolabelling.
Internal auditing's role in preventing and detecting fraud: An empirical analysis
Authors: Bonrath Annika , Eulerich Marc
Published: February 2024

Internal auditing plays a pivotal role in preventing and detecting fraudulent activities. However, the orientation and role of internal auditing in dealing with fraud risk can vary significantly across different companies. This study examines the relationship between the internal audit function (IAF) and fraud, providing new insights into the current practices of internal auditing. Using a survey dataset comprising responses from 275 Chief Audit Executives across Germany, Switzerland and Austria, we investigate factors that correlate with an increased propensity for IAFs to engage in fraud prevention and detection. Our findings suggest that a robust corporate governance environment significantly influences the extent to which the IAF is involved in preventing and detecting fraud. Shedding light on the positioning of internal auditing between management and the audit committee with respect to fraud, our results show that increased IAF involvement with management positively affects the level of activities to prevent and detect fraud, while increased IAF involvement with the audit committee has the opposite effect. Furthermore, we find that the propensity of IAFs to engage in fraud prevention and detection increases when the IAF applies technology‐based auditing techniques for risk identification. Our results have implications for building appropriate protection against the steadily increasing risk of fraud within organizations, while holistically addressing the ambiguity regarding the responsibility for preventing and detecting fraud.
Patterns and determinants of multidimensional poverty and welfare interventions: Towards evidence‐based poverty‐alleviation policies in Hong Kong
Authors: Peng Chenhong , Chang Qingsong , Wang Julia Shu‐Huah , Yeung Cheuk Yui , Yip Paul S. F.
Published: February 2024

This study examines the patterns and determinants of multidimensional poverty and related welfare interventions in Hong Kong. These patterns unveil which dimension or combinations of dimensions contribute the most to multidimensional poverty. These results are useful in informing poverty‐alleviation policies as they help to identify who should be targeted and which welfare transfer programme(s) should be enhanced. Data were drawn from the first wave (2015) of the Hong Kong Panel Survey for Poverty Alleviation (N = 1458). A latent‐class analysis revealed four types of multidimensional poverty: severely deprived, housing‐led poor, socially and status excluded and neighbourhood poor. A multinomial logistic regression was conducted and identified distinctive determinants of the four types of poverty. The groups that require paramount attention from policymakers are older adults over age 70, households with members with disabilities or chronic diseases and households with five or more members. The assessment of the coverage and intensity of cash and in‐kind transfers showed that the coverage of cash transfers for the severely deprived and housing transfers for the housing‐led poor was inadequate. The approach proposed in this study exemplifies ways to transform multidimensional poverty research into evidence‐based policymaking.
Acculturation of Chinese international students in the US: Does sojourner status really matter?
Authors: Zeng Liwen
Published: February 2024

Drawing upon the conceptual framework of ‘the sojourner’ in Siu's (American Journal of Sociology 58, 1952 and 34) work, this study employed semi‐structured in‐depth interviews with 59 Chinese international students and visiting scholars to investigate how their plans to return to China might shape their acculturation experiences in the United States (US). Those interviewed expressed a range of plans, including an immediate return to China, a postponed return, an undecided return and a clear refusal to return. Except for Chinese visiting scholars who were determined sojourners, a majority of the students interviewed regularly negotiated and adjusted their decisions to return based on their experiences in the US. By further exploring the post‐migration experiences of those who expressed some intention to sojourn, this study identifies four types of sojourning mentality, including (1) exploratory, (2) pragmatic, (3) disillusioned and (4) detached. Each type was found to distinctively influence and interplay students' experiences with acculturation and acculturative stress.
Impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on provision of interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery services in Australia: a review of Medicare claims data
Authors: Sritharan Hari P. , Bhat Aditya , Chia Justin , Allahwala Usaid K. , Bhindi Ravinay
Published: February 2024

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has significantly impacted healthcare service provision worldwide. There is limited information on changes in invasive cardiovascular services during the pandemic, particularly in Australia.

Aim

We sought to assess temporal trends on the use of interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery services before and following the COVID‐19 pandemic in Australia.

Methods

Medicare Benefits Schedule items data from the Australian Government Services Australia on outpatient and private hospital interventional cardiology procedures (coronary angiogram, percutaneous coronary intervention and transcatheter aortic valve implantation) and cardiac surgery procedures (coronary artery bypass grafting [CABG] and surgical valve replacement, repair and annuloplasty) were analysed from March 2019 to 2021. This was superimposed on monthly COVID‐19 case data obtained from the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care epidemiology reports.

Results

A sustained reduction in CABG (−10.1%) and surgical valve intervention (−11.1%) was appreciated from March 2019–2020 to March 2020–2021, in the first year of the COVID‐19 pandemic. During this period, an overall increase (+25.9%) in the use of transcatheter aortic valve implantation was observed. Following the initial period of mandated isolation in March–April 2020, a reduction in coronary angiography (−29.1%) and percutaneous coronary intervention (−19.5%) was observed in comparison to March–April 2019; however, this was largely attenuated over time.

Conclusions

The COVID‐19 pandemic has resulted in reductions in the use of interventional cardiology and cardiac surgery services, with cardiac surgery most affected. However, an increase in uptake of transcatheter aortic valve implantation has been observed during the pandemic. This may have implications for future planning and resource allocation in the aftermath of the pandemic.
Ultrafast laser ablation of tungsten carbide: Quantification of threshold range and interpretation of feature transition
Authors: Zhang Xiong , Wang Chunjin , Cheung Benny C. F. , Mi Gaoyang , Wang Chunming
Published: February 2024

Tungsten carbide was manufactured by picosecond laser in this study. Shapes of the ablated craters evolved from parabolic‐like (less than 10 pulses) to Gaussian‐like (more than 500 pulses) as the pulse number increased. The shape changes were closely associated with the discontinuous diameter expansion of ablated crater. To explain these phenomena, two thresholds were identified: an upper threshold of 0.129 J/cm2 and a lower threshold of 0.099 J/cm2. When the laser energy exceeded the upper threshold, ablation occurred under the laser‐energy‐dominated mode. When the laser energy fell between the upper and lower thresholds, ablation occurred under the cumulative‐effect‐dominated mode. The transition of ablation mode contributed to the diameter expansion and shape change. In addition, elemental composition varied significantly at the ablated crater and heat‐affected zone (HAZ), which were related to the degrees of reactions that occurred at different distances from the laser. Finally, surface hardness decreased from base material (32.52 GPa) to edge of crater (11.59 GPa) due to the escape of unpaired interstitial C atoms from the grain boundaries.
Maternal history of Alzheimer's disease predisposes to altered serum cholesterol levels in adult offspring
Authors: Liang Yuehui , Deng Ming‐Gang , Jian Qinghong , Liu Mingwei , Fang Kui , Chen Shuai
Published: February 2024

Controversial findings regarding the association between serum cholesterol levels and Alzheimer's disease (AD) have been identified through observational studies. The genetic basis shared by both factors and the causality between them remain largely unknown. The objective of this study is to examine the causal impact of maternal history of AD on changes in serum cholesterol levels in adult offspring. By retrieving genetic variants from summary statistics of large‐scale genome‐wide association study of maternal history of AD (European‐based: Ncase = 27 696, Ncontrol = 260 980). The causal association between genetically predicted maternal history of AD and changes in serum cholesterol levels in adult offspring was examined using the two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR) method. Causal impact estimates were calculated using single‐nucleotide polymorphisms in both univariable MR (UMR) and multivariable MR (MVMR) analyses. Additionally, other approaches, such as Cochran's Q test and leave‐one‐out variant analysis, were employed to correct for potential biases. The results of UMR presented that genetically predicted maternal history of AD was positively associated with hypercholesterolemia (OR = 1.014; 95% CI: 1.009–1.018; p < 0.001), total cholesterol (OR = 1.29; 95% CI: 1.134–1.466; p < 0.001) and low‐density lipoprotein (OR = 1.525; 95% CI: 1.272–1.828; p < 0.001) among adult offspring. Genetic predisposition for maternal history of AD to be negatively associated with high‐density lipoprotein (OR = 0.889; 95% CI: 0.861–0.917; p < 0.001). The MVMR analysis remained robust and significant after adjusting for diabetes and obesity in offspring. Sufficient evidence was provided in this study to support the putative causal impact of maternal history of AD on the change of serum cholesterol profile in adult offspring. In clinical practice, priority should be given to the detection and monitoring of cholesterol levels in individuals with a maternal history of AD, particularly in the early stages.

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Theorizing White heteropatriarchal supremacy, marriage fundamentalism, and the mechanisms that maintain family inequality
Authors: Letiecq Bethany L.
Published: February 2024

In this article, I draw upon critical feminist and intersectional frameworks to delineate an overarching orientation to structural oppression and unequal power relations that advantages White heteropatriarchal nuclear families (WHNFs) and marginalizes others as a function of family structure and relationship status. Specifically, I theorize that marriage fundamentalism, like structural racism, is a key structuring element of White heteropatriarchal supremacy. Marriage fundamentalism can be understood as an ideological and cultural phenomenon, where adherents espouse the superiority of the two‐parent married family. But it is also a hidden or unacknowledged structural mechanism of White heteropatriarchal family supremacy that is essential to the reproduction and maintenance of family inequality in the United States. Through several examples, I demonstrate how—since colonization—marriage fundamentalism has been instantiated through laws, policies, and practices to unduly advantage WHNFs while simultaneously marginalizing Black, Indigenous, immigrant, mother‐headed, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning (LGBTQ+) families, among others. I conclude with a call for family scientists to further interrogate how marriage fundamentalism reproduces family inequality in American family life and to work toward its dismantling. A deeper understanding of how these complex and often covert mechanisms of structural oppression operate in family life is needed to disrupt these mechanisms and advance family equality and justice.
Voice Work, Upward Influence during Change ‘When Time is of the Essence’
Authors: Jaser Zahira
Published: February 2024

This paper explores when and how middle managers (MMs) convey voice to the top during strategic change, when they do not have the time for lengthy persuasive upward influence tactics such as issue‐selling. I investigate this phenomenon through a 33‐month study of a risk management team in a large bank as it tried to overhaul its risk management systems and culture, after catastrophic money laundering scandals. I make three contributions. First, I complement the issue‐selling literature by theorizing voice work as the purposeful efforts made by middle and lower managers to pass challenges from the bottom to the top during change. These efforts are grouped into three sets of moves: relational, reflexive and skip level. Second, I contribute to the voice literature by explaining when MMs decide to speak up through relational moves (balancing and integrating) and how they shape their voice message through reflexive moves (preparing and refining). Lastly, I refine our understanding of skip level voice by defining skip level moves (overriding and reinforcing), introducing nuance into how lower managers’ voice can strengthen or destabilize MMs. Voice work ultimately enriches our processual understanding of voice as a dynamic phenomenon worked on by multiple layers of management. Theory is built by amalgamating literatures on voice and on MMs’ upward influence, and by analysing them through the sociological lens of work.
Phytocannabinoids and gingival inflammation: Preclinical findings and a placebo‐controlled double‐blind randomized clinical trial with cannabidiol
Authors: Jirasek Petr , Jusku Alexandr , Frankova Jana , Urbankova Marketa , Diabelko Daniel , Ruzicka Filip , Papouskova Barbora , Chytilova Karin , Vrba Jiri , Havlasek Jakub , Langova Katerina , Storch Jan , Voborna Iva , Simanek Vilim , Vacek Jan
Published: February 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to: (1) evaluate the anti‐inflammatory effects of cannabidiol (CBD) on primary cultures of human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) and (2) to clinically monitor the effect of CBD in subjects with periodontitis.

Background

The use of phytocannabinoids is a new approach in the treatment of widely prevalent periodontal disease.

Materials and Methods

Cannabinoid receptors were analyzed by western blot and interleukin production detected using enzyme immunoassay. Activation of the Nrf2 pathway was studied via monitoring the mRNA level of heme oxygenase‐1. Antimicrobial effects were determined by standard microdilution and 16S rRNA screening. In the clinical part, a placebo‐control double‐blind randomized study was conducted (56 days) in three groups (n = 90) using dental gel without CBD (group A) and with 1% (w/w) CBD (group B) and corresponding toothpaste (group A – no CBD, group B – with CBD) for home use to maintain oral health. Group C used dental gel containing 1% chlorhexidine digluconate (active comparator) and toothpaste without CBD.

Results

Human gingival fibroblasts were confirmed to express the cannabinoid receptor CB2. Lipopolysaccharide‐induced cells exhibited increased production of pro‐inflammatory IL‐6 and IL‐8, with deceasing levels upon exposure to CBD. CBD also exhibited antimicrobial activities against Porphyromonas gingivalis, with an MIC of 1.5 μg/mL. Activation of the Nrf2 pathway was also demonstrated. In the clinical part, statistically significant improvement was found for the gingival, gingival bleeding, and modified gingival indices between placebo group A and CBD group B after 56 days.

Conclusions

Cannabidiol reduced inflammation and the growth of selected periodontal pathogenic bacteria. The clinical trial demonstrated a statistically significant improvement after CBD application. No adverse effects of CBD were reported by patients or observed upon clinical examination during the study. The results are a promising basis for a more comprehensive investigation of the application of non‐psychotropic cannabinoids in dentistry.