bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tasurgratinib in patients with cholangiocarcinoma or gastric cancer: Expansion part of the first‐in‐human phase I study
Authors: Morizane Chigusa , Ueno Makoto , Ioka Tatsuya , Tajika Masahiro , Ikeda Masafumi , Yamaguchi Kensei , Hara Hiroki , Yabusaki Hiroshi , Miyamoto Atsushi , Iwasa Satoru , Muto Manabu , Takashima Tsutomu , Minashi Keiko , Komatsu Yoshito , Nishina Tomohiro , Nakajima Takako Eguchi , Takeno Atsuchi , Moriwaki Toshikazu , Furukawa Masayuki , Sahara Takatoshi , Ikezawa Hiroki , Nomoto Maiko , Takashima Shuya , Uehara Taisuke , Funasaka Setsuo , Yashiro Masakazu , Furuse Junji
Published: October 2024

Fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs) are a highly conserved family of transmembrane receptor tyrosine kinases with multiple roles in the regulation of key cellular processes. Specific FGFR mutations have been observed in several types of cancers, including gastric carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma. Dose escalation data of 24 Japanese patients with solid tumors treated with Tasurgratinib (previously known as E7090), a potent, selective FGFR1–3 inhibitor, was reported in a phase I, first‐in‐human, single‐center study. Based on the safety, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic profiles observed in this study, the recommended dose of 140 mg once daily was selected for the expansion part (Part 2), a multicenter expansion of the dose‐finding study restricted to patients with tumors harboring FGFR gene alterations. Safety and preliminary efficacy were assessed in Part 2. Pharmacodynamic pharmacogenomic markers (serum phosphate, FGF23, and 1,25‐(OH)2‐vitamin D, circulating tumor DNA) and pharmacokinetic profiles were also evaluated. A total of 16 patients were enrolled in Part 2, six with cholangiocarcinoma and 10 with gastric cancer. The most common treatment‐emergent adverse events were hyperphosphatemia, palmar‐plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome, and paronychia. Five partial responses (83.3%) in cholangiocarcinoma patients and one partial response (11.1%) in gastric cancer patients were observed; median progression‐free survival was 8.26 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 3.84, not evaluable [NE]) and 3.25 months (95% CI 0.95, 4.86), and overall survival was 22.49 months (95% CI 6.37, NE) and 4.27 months (95% CI 2.23, 7.95), respectively, in the two groups. In conclusion, Tasurgratinib 140 mg has a tolerable safety profile with good clinical efficacy in patients with cholangiocarcinoma harboring FGFR2 gene rearrangements.
Anisotropic Specular Image‐Based Lighting Based on BRDF Major Axis Sampling
Authors: Cocco Giovanni , Zanni Cédric , Chermain Xavier
Published: October 2024

Anisotropic specular appearances are ubiquitous in the environment: brushed stainless steel pans, kettles, elevator walls, fur, or scratched plastics. Real‐time rendering of these materials with image‐based lighting is challenging due to the complex shape of the bidirectional reflectance distribution function (BRDF). We propose an anisotropic specular image‐based lighting method that can serve as a drop‐in replacement for the standard bent normal technique [Rev11]. Our method yields more realistic results with a 50% increase in computation time of the previous technique, using the same high dynamic range (HDR) preintegrated environment image. We use several environment samples positioned along the major axis of the specular microfacet BRDF. We derive an analytic formula to determine the two closest and two farthest points from the reflected direction on an approximation of the BRDF confidence region boundary. The two farthest points define the BRDF major axis, while the two closest points are used to approximate the BRDF width. The environment level of detail is derived from the BRDF width and the distance between the samples. We extensively compare our method with the bent normal technique and the ground truth using the GGX specular BRDF.
Line‐Field Confocal Optical Coherence Tomography Imaging of Psoriasis With Histopathology Correlation
Authors: Verzì Anna Elisa , Lacarrubba Francesco , Musumeci Maria Letizia , Caltabiano Rosario , Micali Giuseppe
Published: October 2024

Line‐field confocal optical coherence tomography (LC‐OCT) is a novel imaging technique for in vivo examination of the skin that has recently been introduced in the dermatologic armamentarium of non‐invasive diagnostic tools. Its usefulness in the diagnosis and treatment monitoring of some neoplastic, inflammatory, and infectious skin conditions has been demonstrated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the LC‐OCT features of psoriasis in a large number of psoriatic plaques along with their histopathologic correlation. In this retrospective study, the LC‐OCT and the corresponding histopathologic images of 100 psoriatic plaques of the trunk, upper and lower arms from 60 patients that underwent both procedures were evaluated and correlated. The following microscopic findings, typical of plaque psoriasis, were observed at both LC‐OCT and histopathology: hyperkeratosis, parakeratosis, acanthosis, papillomatosis and vascular changes, Munro microabscesses, and pustules of Kogoj. The LC‐OCT findings perfectly matched with histopathology. Our study confirms the usefulness of this new imaging technique in the non‐invasive visualization of the common diagnostic clues of psoriasis.
Pyoderma Gangrenosum Associated With Iatrogenic Interleukin 17A Blockade: A Report of Two Cases and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Magro Cynthia M. , Crowson Neil , Kalomeris Taylor , Nuovo Gerard
Published: October 2024

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare necrotizing neutrophilic dermatosis driven by monokines and cytokines elaborated by monocytes and autoreactive T cells, respectively. Th1‐mediated autoimmune disorders and myeloproliferative disease are among the potential disease associations. More recently, certain medications were implicated, including TNF‐alpha inhibitors, rituximab, and IL‐17A inhibitors, such as secukinumab, where the development of PG is held to represent a cutaneous immune adverse effect. We present two patients who developed an autoinflammatory syndrome resembling PG in the setting of drug therapy with agents exhibiting an IL‐17A inhibitory effect. The drugs were erunumab in one and secukinumab in the other. One patient received the anti‐calcitonin gene‐related peptide targeted therapy, erenumab, for migraine prophylaxis. While this drug has not been previously implicated in the development of PG, it can cause IL‐17A blockade. The other patient was on secukinumab, a monoclonal antibody that selectively targets IL‐17A. We documented a microenvironment enriched in IL‐17A, emphasizing that the blockade impacts the functionality of the receptor as opposed to a quantitative reduction in IL‐17A production by T cells. Qualitative functional IL‐17A blockade could result in a paradoxical increase in IL‐23, a pro‐inflammatory cytokine that may contribute to the influx of neutrophils pathogenetically implicated in PG.
Predictors of school attendance among children with cerebral palsy in Bangladesh
Authors: Al Imam Mahmudul Hassan , Jahan Israt , Perrins Genevieve , Muhit Mohammad , Badawi Nadia , Khandaker Gulam
Published: October 2024

Aim

To determine school attendance and its predictors among children with cerebral palsy (CP) in Bangladesh using population‐based data.

Method

This study utilized data from the Bangladesh Cerebral Palsy Register (BCPR), a population‐based register of children with CP aged less than 18 years in Bangladesh. Sociodemographic, clinical, and educational data were documented, and descriptive statistics and multivariate regression analyses were used to identify potential predictors of school attendance.

Results

Between January 2015 and January 2019, 2725 children with CP were registered into BCPR of which 1582 were school‐aged children (i.e. aged 6–18 years). The majority of those children had not attended school (73.9%); 50% (n = 239) children in Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels I to II did not attend schools. Adjusted odds ratios (OR) showed significantly higher odds of school attendance among children whose mothers had completed secondary education or higher (adjusted OR: 2.2; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.2–4.0) and received rehabilitation (adjusted OR: 2.1; 95% CI: 1.4–3.1). Conversely, lower odds of school attendance were observed among children aged 15 to 18 years (adjusted OR: 0.4; 95% CI: 0.2–0.8), those with bilateral CP (adjusted OR: 0.5; 95% CI: 0.3–0.8), GMFCS levels III to V (adjusted OR: 0.3; 95% CI: 0.2–0.5), Manual Ability Classification System levels III to V (adjusted OR: 0.5; 95% CI: 0.4–0.8), and speech impairment (adjusted OR: 0.3; 95% CI: 0.2–0.6).

Interpretation

A large number of children with CP in Bangladesh, including half of those with milder forms, do not attend schools. These findings underscore a deficiency in awareness and support, encompassing the provision of resources and trained teachers, highlighting the necessity for policy‐level changes. Sociodemographic and clinical predictors should be taken into account when devising educational programmes to enhance school attendance for children with CP in Bangladesh.
Comparison of ultrasound scanning and clinical examination for detecting insulin injection related Lipohypertrophy and construction of Lipohypertrophy classification table
Authors: Xu Hongmei , Cheng Zhengnan , Li Xiaohui , Mu Chun , Bao Di , Xing Qiuling
Published: October 2024

Aims

To explore an cost‐effective, convenient method for lipohypertrophy (LH) detection with a high detection rate, and to construct a classification table for LH, so as to provide reference for LH screening and management.

Methods

From December 2021 to November 2022, 395 hospitalized patients with diabetes from a Tianjin tertiary hospital were enrolled. The LH was detected through ultrasound scanning (USS), structured visual palpation (SVP), and ordinary visual palpation (OVP), and the detection rates were compared. A classification table for LH (LH‐LNT table) was constructed based on SVP characteristics.

Results

Under USS, SVP, and OVP, the detection of LH was 89.6%, 78.0%, and 66.6% respectively, with site detection at 92.3%, 71.2%, and 57.8% respectively, showcasing statistically significant differences among the three methods. SVP had a lower misdiagnosis rate than OVP, with upper arm and thighs being common misdiagnosed sites. LH was mostly found in the lower abdomen, flat, and soft on palpation. L1N2T1 (two soft LH on abdomen) was the main type, accounting for 35.4%.

Conclusions

SVP is useful for detecting LH and deserves clinical promotion. The LH‐LNT table constructed here effectively summarizes patient LH status, aiding doctor‐nurse–patient communication.
Recovering Anticolonialism as an Intellectual and Political Project in Education
Authors: Zembylas Michalinos
Published: October 2024

In this essay, Michalinos Zembylas revisits the tension between decolonization and other social justice projects in education scholarship, focusing in particular on the arguments for and against the notion of decolonization as land return. While different colonized communities are justifiably projecting their own political priorities in struggles against specific colonial forms of domination, Zembylas argues that education as scholarship and practice would be well served to recover the anticolonial as a shared intellectual and political project for understanding the different practices and experiences of resistance to colonialism and imperialism around the world. Anticolonial thought and praxis offer education scholars, activists, and practitioners an intellectual and political framework of connectivity and anticolonial solidarity that neither erases differences between decolonization and other political projects, nor fails to foreground community building between fields, approaches, and geographical regions. Instead of seeing different political projects as competing against one another — e.g., by considering social justice projects that do not prioritize land return as misguided or misplaced — anticolonialism seeks to theorize and act against a broad range of colonial practices and by‐products that include racism, militarism, resources exploitation, land dispossession, and so on.
Small Streams Support Beta Diversity in Neotropical Fish Assemblages in the Upper Paraná River Basin
Authors: Córdova Junior Renner Fernando da Silva , Ferreira Fabiane Silva , Pinho Henrique Lopes Ledo , Minillo Alessandro , Kashiwaqui Elaine Antoniassi Luiz , Súarez Yzel Rondon
Published: October 2024

Variation in species composition along an environmental gradient (β‐diversity) can inform our understanding of biodiversity patterns and species composition. Beta diversity can be partitioned into species contributions to beta diversity (SCBD) and local contributions to beta diversity (LCBD). While SCBD describes the variations in species composition among samples, LCBD measures the uniqueness of a biological community within a larger ecosystem. Recently developed metrics enabled the estimation of species contribution to total beta diversity (SCBD) and the contribution of individual sites to total beta diversity (LCBD). Utilising these metrics, a one‐time survey of 275 sampling points within four sub‐basins of the Upper Paraná River Hydrographic Basin (low‐flow streams, < 5 m3/s) was conducted to assess fish community composition. Our results show that limnological influences at different scales contribute to higher LCBD. However, land use and species richness were not directly linked to this outcome, suggesting that sites with fewer fish species along sub‐basins contributed to higher beta diversity. It was concluded that beta diversity is more influenced by limnological characteristics and the position of sampling sites along the longitudinal gradient than that based on variations in species composition (SCBD). Moreover, high LCBD values were even found in portions of the gradient with lower species richness. This means that small streams in the sub‐basins of the upper Paraná River are unique and are comprised of varied habitats that contribute to increasing diversity. As such, they should be seen as a target in the development of environmental policies designed to conserve their pristine condition.
From Glory to Decline: Uncovering Causes of Oak Decline in Iran
Authors: Jamali Samad , Haack Robert A.
Published: October 2024

Oak decline is a major concern in Iran. A literature search with the terms ‘Iran’ AND ‘oak’ OR ‘Quercus’ from 1963 through 2023 resulted in 635 articles with over 200 dealing specifically with oak decline. In Iran, oak decline is most severe in the Zagros forests, followed by the Arasbaran and Hyrcanian forests. Of Iran's 11 native oak species, Quercus brantii is the most affected. Several factors have been identified as contributing to oak decline in Iran. Some economic and social factors include high rural unemployment, livestock overgrazing and uncontrolled cutting of live tree branches with the wood used for firewood and foliage used as food for farm animals. These pruning wounds can serve as entry points for pathogens and attract insects. Important abiotic factors included extended drought, increasing air temperature and wind speed, and increased levels of airborne dust and heavy metals. Important pathogens identified in the early 2000s included Armillaria mellea and charcoal rot fungus (Biscogniauxia mediterranea). More recently, many other fungal pathogens (e.g., Discula quercina, Neoscytalidium dimidiatum, Obolarina persica, Paecilomyces formosus and Phaeoacremonium tuscanicum) and bacterial pathogens (e.g., Bacillus pumilus, Brenneria goodwinii, Gibbsiella quercinecans, Rahnella victoriana and Stenotrophomonas maltophilia) were found in association with declining oaks. Among the insects, severe oak defoliation has resulted from various Lepidoptera in the families Erebidae, Geometridae and Tortricidae. Similarly, several bark‐ and wood‐boring beetles in the families Buprestidae and Cerambycidae were reported from declining oaks, with the buprestid Agrilus hastulifer being one of the most common. It is hoped that this review will improve our understanding of the many factors involved in oak decline in Iran and promote the development of management strategies.
Effectiveness of a New Broadrick Flag Support for Assisting Students With the Design of an Occlusal Plane
Authors: Gerard Faustine , Dehurtevent Marion , Chai Feng , Zamorski Nathalia , Lefevre Claude
Published: October 2024

Objective

Prosthetic restorations require functional occlusal planes to ensure therapeutic success. The purpose of the present study was to develop a new Broadrick flag support for a semi‐adjustable articulator and to investigate the effectiveness of occlusal planes drawn using the Broadrick flag method by inexperienced practitioners in complex situations such as skeletal class II relationships associated with edentulous areas.

Méthodology

The Broadrick flag support was designed and manufactured by the additive technique and was adapted to the Quick Master articulator. The QR code of the manufacturing file of the Broadrick flag support is accessible to any practitioner. Thirty‐seven third‐year students (inexperienced practitioners) were randomised into two groups for drawing occlusal planes on two models either with or without the Broadrick flag method. A prosthodontic professor (experienced practitioner) drew occlusal planes on the models to serve as references. Each model was analysed using a standardised method to measure the distances between the occlusal planes drawn by experienced and inexperienced practitioners.

Résults

Only the distance measured for the right second molar of the first model with the Broadrick flag method was significantly shorter than those measured without using this method (p < 0.05, Wilcoxon test). Visual observations showed that only the second molar drawings of the inexperienced practitioners were above the drawings of the experienced practitioner.

Conclusion

The Broadrick flag method helped inexperienced practitioners to draw occlusal planes of models in complex skeletal class II relationships associated with edentulous areas with natural teeth located both anterior and posterior to them.
Social Media in Oral Health Education: A Scoping Review
Authors: Apel Zuzanna , Fagundes Nathalia Carolina Fernandes , Sharmin Nazlee , Nassar Usama , Gow Gordon , Apel Dominic , Perez Arnaldo
Published: October 2024

Background

The literature on the use of social media in oral health education has grown in recent years; however, the research activity on this topic has not been comprehensibly summarised. This scoping review aimed to map the available literature on students' and faculty's use of social media in oral health education across the platforms.

Methods

This review was guided by Arksey and O'Malley's scoping review framework and adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses extensions for scoping reviews (PRISMA‐ScR). Seven databases were searched to include literature until October 2023. Studies were included if they were published in English and focused on using social media in oral health education. Two independent reviewers screened for article eligibility and extracted the relevant data.

Results

The review included 40 articles published between January 2008 and October 2023. Most studies used quantitative approaches, did not specify the study design, were noninterventional and reported on undergraduate dental students' use of social media. Included studies centred on patterns of use, views and actual effectiveness of social media. YouTube emerged as the most frequently used platform, followed by Podcast, Facebook and WhatsApp.

Conclusions

The use of social media in oral health education was found to be useful based on direct and indirect outcome measures. However, robust research designs are required to further evaluate the impact of social media on oral health education.
The Network Structure of School Principal Resilience: Gender Differences
Authors: Chen Junjun , Toprak Mustafa , Karakus Mehmet , Kouhsari Masoumeh
Published: October 2024

The ability of school principals to demonstrate resilience enables them to effectively lead, adapt and thrive amidst the ever‐changing landscape of educational challenges and transformations. Despite its necessity, research on principal resilience remains largely underdeveloped and is still in its early stages. The current study aims to fill this gap using network analysis to examine the inter‐structural principal resilience network and gender differences in terms of network estimation, centrality indices, network stability and network comparison using a sample of 1274 principals from China. The results reveal a comprehensive understanding of the dynamic network and gender effects on school principal resilience at the dimension and item levels. It is noted that social resilience exhibits the highest strength, indicating the critical importance of social support networks and relationships. The gender analysis indicated that spiritual resilience emerged as a central dimension in the resilience network of female principals, while emotional and psychological resilience was the central dimension in the resilience network of male principals. This study advances the conceptual and practical understandings of school principal resilience by examining the interactions among different dimensions and items, thereby contributing to the maturity of knowledge production and intervention efforts in the field.
Language Development Opportunities in Curricular and Trade Books: A Content Analysis
Authors: Gibbs Anna S. , Reed Deborah K.
Published: October 2024

This content analysis explored children's fictional storybooks and informational science books to determine their differences in high‐quality text features that support oral language (OL) development. We also explored the opportunities for OL development in curricular books compared to trade books. Using systematic coding procedures, we evaluated the genre, vocabulary, syntactic variety, supportive visuals and cultural sensitivity in books from three kindergarten and Grade 1 reading curricula (n = 521) as well as a sample of commercially‐available trade books (n = 48). Descriptive information was averaged to determine the percentage of high‐quality text features included in each book type and genre. Results indicated that informational science trade books offered more opportunities for rich language experiences than their curricular counterparts or any of the fictional books. Thus, there is reason to believe that informational science trade books with high‐quality text features may promote OL development and enhance the learning of young students.
Exploring the Effects of Artificial Intelligence Application on EFL Students' Academic Engagement and Emotional Experiences: A Mixed‐Methods Study
Authors: Guo Yumeng , Wang Yongliang
Published: October 2024

As artificial intelligence (AI) gains prominence, its integration into second language (L2) /foreign language (FL) instruction has become a significant trend. Despite the considerable promise of AI for L2/FL learning, more research is still needed on its effects on student academic engagement in literature classes and the corresponding emotional experiences. This study, therefore, aimed to examine the effects of AI use on English as a foreign language (EFL) learners' academic engagement, and the emotional experience was also qualitatively explored. Students were allocated to the experimental group (N = 48), who received instruction integrated with AI, and the control group (N = 48), who received traditional instruction without AI assistance. Quantitative data were collected using an FL engagement scale, supplemented by individual semi‐structured interviews in the qualitative phase. The results indicated that integrating AI into EFL instruction has a positive effect on students' cognitive, emotional and social engagement. Moreover, the learners' emotional experiences were found to be abundant and dynamic, exerting influence on their academic engagement. This study provides valuable insights for language educators and researchers regarding integrating AI into EFL instruction.
Moving the Debate Forward: A Cross‐Sectional Study Examining Marxist and Interactionalist Perspectives of Emotional Labor in Teaching
Authors: Tsang Kwok Kuen , Zhang Ying , Li Guanyu , Song Huan
Published: October 2024

The Marxist perspective asserts that teachers' emotional labor is alienating because it is prescribed by institutional forces such as external accountability, leading to burnout. However, the interactionist perspective disagrees with this perspective; it posits that teachers possess subjectivity, such as a sense of calling, which enables them to intentionally manage their emotions to achieve self‐actualization. Thus, this study aims to contribute to the debate by examining the relationships amongst teachers' emotional labor, external accountability, sense of calling, and burnout in China. The findings reveal (1) a negative relationship between external accountability and burnout that is mediated by various forms of emotional labor and (2) a significant moderation effect of a sense of calling on the relationship between external accountability and emotional labor. The findings generally support the internationalist perspective but show that the Marxist perspective may be applicable in explaining emotional labor amongst teachers with a weak sense of calling.
The Impact of a Dialogic Intervention on a Chinese Rural Teacher and Students' Stances Towards Texts
Authors: Zhong Yiting , Davies Maree , Wilson Aaron
Published: October 2024

In language arts classrooms, dialogic teaching encourages diverse text interpretations, fostering discussions that enhance students' literacy skills like reasoning. However, adopting a dialogic stance poses challenges for both teachers and students. The study investigated the impact of a tailor‐made dialogic intervention on a Chinese rural teacher and students' stances towards texts. Chinese rural students shifted from efferent and instrumental stances to a more critical‐analytical stance, indicating a profound change in how rural students interacted with texts through exploratory talk, highlighting the potential of dialogic teaching practices to foster deep engagement with reading materials. However, after the intervention ended, the teacher reverted to a monologic approach due to limited dialogic texts and time constraints. The findings underscore the potential of dialogic teaching for engaging rural students, yet highlight the need for sustained teacher training and suitable texts. Future research should focus on cultivating and maintaining students' growth mindset effectively in rural settings.
Comparative Analysis of Bispecific Antibodies and CAR T‐Cell Therapy in Follicular Lymphoma
Authors: Morabito Fortunato , Martino Enrica Antonia , Nizzoli Maria Elena , Talami Annalisa , Pozzi Stefano , Martino Massimo , Neri Antonino , Gentile Massimo
Published: October 2024

The treatment landscape for relapsed/refractory follicular lymphoma (RR‐FL) is marked by a pivotal debate between chimeric antigen receptor T‐cell (CAR‐T) therapy and bispecific antibodies (BsAbs). While both CAR‐T therapy and BsAbs target similar immunobiology and molecular markers, their efficacy comparisons are hindered by the lack of direct clinical trial comparisons. Key trials, such as the ZUMA‐5 study, underscore axicabtagene ciloleucel (axi‐cel)'s efficacy in treating RR‐FL, achieving a 79% complete response rate with a median duration of response exceeding 3 years. Similarly, lisocabtagene maraleucel (liso‐cel) in the TRANSCEND FL study reports a 94% complete response rate, emphasizing robust outcomes in heavily pretreated patients. Among BsAbs, mosunetuzumab showed promise in the GO29781 trial, with a 62% overall response rate in heavily pretreated RR‐FL patients. Thus, CAR‐T therapy offers potential curative benefits with a single infusion. However, its efficacy is tempered by significant adverse events such as cytokine release syndrome (CRS), neurotoxicity, and cytopenias, requiring specialized management and patient monitoring. In contrast, BsAbs provide a more tolerable treatment option counterbalancing by lower response rates and frequent dosing requirements. Personalized treatment strategies are crucial because of these distinct efficacy and safety profiles. When considering cost‐effectiveness, both therapies need to be evaluated in the context of their clinical outcomes and quality of life improvements. Cost‐effectiveness considerations are essential; while CAR‐T therapies incur higher initial costs, their potential for long‐term remission may mitigate expenses associated with repeated treatments or hospitalizations. Future research into resistance mechanisms and optimal therapeutic sequencing will further refine RR‐FL management strategies.
Investigating Approaches to Controlling Item Position Effects in Computerized Adaptive Tests
Authors: Ma Ye , Harris Deborah J.
Published: October 2024

Item position effect (IPE) refers to situations where an item performs differently when it is administered in different positions on a test. The majority of previous research studies have focused on investigating IPE under linear testing. There is a lack of IPE research under adaptive testing. In addition, the existence of IPE might violate Item Response Theory (IRT)’s item parameter invariance assumption, which facilitates applications of IRT in various psychometric tasks such as computerized adaptive testing (CAT). Ignoring IPE might lead to issues such as inaccurate ability estimation in CAT. This article extends research on IPE by proposing and evaluating approaches to controlling position effects under an item‐level computerized adaptive test via a simulation study. The results show that adjusting IPE via a pretesting design (approach 3) or a pool design (approach 4) results in better ability estimation accuracy compared to no adjustment (baseline approach) and item‐level adjustment (approach 2). Practical implications of each approach as well as future research directions are discussed as well.
Creep Behavior and Fracture Mechanisms of the Dissimilar Inertia Friction Welded Joints of Deformed and Powder Metallurgy Ni‐Based Superalloys
Authors: Zhang Zixin , Zhao Qiang , Li Xiaoguang , Zhan Rui , Zhang Chunbo , Qin Feng , Liang Hang , Cui Lei , Liu Yongchang
Published: October 2024

In this research, the microstructure and precipitate characteristics of the dissimilar inertia friction welded (IFW) joints of deformed and powder metallurgy (PM) nickel‐based superalloys were studied using optical, scanning electron, and transmission electron microscopy. In addition, several creep tests were conducted. The high‐temperature mechanical properties of the IFW joints were systematically analyzed. Under the creep testing condition of 680°C, the specimens exhibited creep fracture at the thermomechanically affected zone (TMAZ) of the PM superalloys. Further, the failure lifetime is enhanced with a reduction in the applied creep loading. Owing to the IFW process, various γ′ precipitates and carbide distributions were observed in the various zones of a dissimilar IFW joint. Undissolved powder particle boundary (PPB) defects in the TMAZ of the PM superalloy initiated creep cracks under creep loading. Based on the experimental results and theoretical analysis, the creep fracture mechanisms of the dissimilar IFW joints were revealed. Thus, the findings of this study provide guidance for controlling the microstructures and properties of dissimilar deformed/PM nickel‐based superalloy IFW joints.
Notch signaling pathway suppresses mRNA expression of hexokinase 2 under nutrient‐poor conditions in U87‐MG glioma cells
Authors: Kuwabara Shuhei , Mizoguchi Takamasa , Ma Jiawei , Kanoh Tohgo , Ohta Yuki , Itoh Motoyuki
Published: October 2024

Control of nutrient homeostasis plays a central role in cell proliferation/survival during embryonic development and tumor growth. Activation of the Notch signaling pathway, a major contributor to cell–cell interactions, is a potential mechanism for cell adaptation to nutrient‐poor conditions. Our previous study also demonstrated that during embryogenesis when nutrients such as glutamine and growth factors are potentially maintained at lower levels, Notch signaling suppresses mRNA expression of hexokinase 2 (hk2), which is a glycolysis‐associated gene, in the central nervous system. However, whether and how the genetic regulation of HK2 via Notch signaling contributes to cellular adaptability to nutrient‐poor environments remains unknown. In this study, we performed gene expression analysis using a U87‐MG human glioma cell line and revealed that under conditions where both glutamine and serum were absent, Notch signaling was activated and HK2 expression was downregulated by Notch signaling. We also found that Notch‐mediated HK2 suppression was triggered in a Notch ligand‐selective manner. Furthermore, HK2 was shown to inhibit cell proliferation of U87‐MG gliomas, which might depend on Notch signaling activity. Together, our findings suggest the involvement of Notch‐mediated HK2 suppression in an adaptive mechanism of U87‐MG glioma cells to nutrient‐poor conditions.
Comparison of risk factors and mortality in veterans with HIV and those without HIV suffering first major acute cardiovascular events
Authors: Hicks William L. , Khalil Suzan , Burke Floyd W. , Ho Minh Quang , Mansi Ishak
Published: October 2024

Background

Previous studies have demonstrated that people with HIV have an increased atherosclerotic plaque vulnerability, making them more susceptible to severe cardiovascular complications. This study aimed to examine the clinical characteristics of people with HIV in comparison to people without HIV admitted to Veterans Health Administration (VHA) with their first major acute cardiovascular events (MACE) and compare their total mortality.

Methods

We used national VHA data to extract data of those admitted to VHA hospitals with MACE defined as acute myocardial infarction (AMI), acute cerebrovascular accident (CVA) or cardiac arrest during the fiscal years 2003–2021. The hazard ratio (HR) of mortality for people with HIV versus people without HIV was estimated using Cox proportional hazard regression analysis.

Results

Out of 280 311 veterans, 2510 people with HIV and 277 801 people without HIV had their first MACE during the study period. People with HIV were younger, more likely to be African American, had a lower prevalence of diabetes mellitus and hypertension, similar total cholesterol levels and a lower mean 10‐year cardiovascular risk score (25.4 in people with HIV vs. 28.7 in people without HIV). Among MACE components, people with HIV had a higher proportion of CVA (27% vs. 21.3%, p < 0.001) and cardiac arrest (13.0% vs. 8.4%, p < 0.001) but a lower incidence of AMI (62.4% vs. 72.5%, p < 0.001) than people without HIV. Additionally, people with HIV had a higher risk of total mortality (adjusted HR: 2.05, 95% confidence interval: 1.90–2.22) compared with people without HIV.

Conclusion

People with HIV experience MACE at younger ages despite lower cardiovascular risks and similar baseline cholesterol and blood pressure levels. People with HIV had higher mortality and a higher risk of having ventricular fibrillation arrest and stroke as their first MACE.
Factors Related to Dental Ergonomics Practice Among Indonesian Dentists
Authors: Setiawati Febriana , Hapsari Evania Manda , Khairinisa Safira , Novrinda Herry , Adiatman Melissa , Darwita Risqa Rina
Published: October 2024

Background

Dentists are at greater risk of work‐related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) which can be caused by repetitive movements, improper posture and long working hours. If ergonomic principles are applied in the field of dentistry, they help to prevent occupational ergonomic health hazards and provides more comfort to the dentist and patient.

Objective

To obtain information regarding dental ergonomics practice of dentists in Indonesia and its related factors.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted using a purposive sampling method via Google Form to 231 dentists in DKI Jakarta, Indonesia from November to December 2022. The questionnaire consisted of 34 items divided into five sections; socio‐demographic, job characteristics, knowledge of dental ergonomics, attitude towards dental ergonomics and the practice of dentists regarding dental ergonomics. Bivariate analysis was conducted using Pearson Chi‐square Test.

Result

76.2% dentists have poor dental ergonomics practice. There is a significant relationship (p‐value < 0.05) between the practice of dental ergonomics and age group, years of practical experience and level of knowledge.

Conclusion

Most Indonesian dentists (76.2%) still lack of dental ergonomics practice. Age, duration of work experience and ergonomic dental practice knowledge are significantly correlated.
Evaluation of the Faecal Occult Blood Test as a Screening Tool for Periodontal Disease: A Case–Control Study
Authors: Rawdhah Rasha , Mahmood Maha Sh.
Published: October 2024

Objectives

To assess the feasibility of using a faecal occult blood test (FOBT) kit as a screening tool for periodontal disease. Additionally, the study aimed to evaluate the test's sensitivity and specificity while exploring the influence of factors like age, sex and the number of teeth on its performance.

Methods

A prospective observational case–control study involving 150 participants divided into three groups on the basis of the basic periodontal examination index: healthy (n = 21), gingivitis (n = 52) and periodontitis (n = 77). Salivary occult blood tests were conducted using the Onsite FOB‐Hi Rapid Test. Descriptive and analytical statistical analyses were performed using Fisher's exact test and chi‐square tests.

Results

The FOBT kit demonstrated a sensitivity of 91% and a specificity of 100%. The number of teeth significantly influenced test results (p value = 0.021, chi‐square). Age (p value = 0.09, chi‐square) and sex (p value = 0.213, chi‐square) did not significantly impact the test's performance.

Conclusion

The FOBT kit demonstrates high sensitivity (91.3%) and specificity (100%) as a screening tool for periodontal disease. Its affordability and global availability make it suitable for detecting periodontal disease across different age groups, sexes and numbers of teeth.
Evaluation of the Effect of Antibacterial Toothpastes Containing Chlorhexidine and Amine Fluoride on Oral Flora in Patients Undergoing Orthodontic Treatment—A Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Sabuncuoğlu Fidan Alakuş , Akgün Özlem Martı , Yıldırım Ceren , Azizov Rashad , Özgürtaş Taner , Demir Pervin , Kaplan Ceren , Altun Ceyhan
Published: October 2024

Objectives

To compare the efficacy of chlorhexidine (CHX) and amine fluoride (AF) toothpastes on oral flora in fixed orthodontic treatment patients.

Methods

Thirteen patients were given toothpaste containing AF, and 12 patients were given toothpaste containing CHX. Microbial and periodontal records were taken before, 1 week, and 5 weeks after the bonding procedure. Gingival index (GI), plaque index (PI), and bleeding on probing (BOP) values were recorded by the same expert calibrated before the study. Biofilm samples were taken, and then colony counts of the samples were evaluated. Whether the variable values obtained in the groups at the time of measurement were different was examined by Nonparametric Analysis of Longitudinal Data in Factorial Experiments—Nonparametric Tests for the F1_LD_F1 design for longitudinal data.

Results

Gender distribution was similar in the study groups (χ2 = 1.944; p = 0.163). The mean age of the patients did not differ in the groups (t = 0.502; p = 0.620). In general, the variable values analysed within the scope of the study did not show significant differences between groups and time (p > 0.05). When the pairwise interactions were analysed, it was found that there was a significant difference only for PI values (F = 3.411; p = 0.035).

Conclusions

While there were no significant differences observed in BOP, GI, and S. mutans levels and changes in IgA and IgE values between toothpastes containing CHX and AF, the PI index of CHX‐containing toothpastes exhibited a notably lower level. Both AF‐ and CHX‐containing toothpastes can be used for managing biofilm, controlling bacteria, and minimising gingivitis in subjects undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment.
A Survey of Dental Hygiene Pre‐Clinic Instrumentation Selection and Sequence
Authors: Ponce Justine E.
Published: October 2024

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to assess the selection and sequence of dental hygiene instruments taught during dental hygiene pre‐clinical education in the United States.

Methods

Exempt status was received from the University of New Mexico's IRB (ID 21‐336). A survey was developed with questions to be answered involving decisions for clinical teaching and sequencing on various assessment and implementation instruments during pre‐clinic education. The instrument was 11 questions with multiple choice, ranking and short answer. A survey link was included through email invitation and successfully sent to 301 accredited dental hygiene programme directors in the United States. Results were collected and analysed through descriptive statistics.

Results

Forty‐three of the invited participants completed the survey, a 14% response rate. Almost half (n = 24) of the participants chose to teach the periodontal probe first and 19 chose the explorer. Twenty‐five participants selected they teach the sickle scalers first, 14 teach the universal curette scalers first and 4 teach the Gracey curette scalers first. All participants teach electronically powered scalers with 33 teaching after hand instrumentation and 8 before.

Conclusions

Results from this study emphasise that educators teach clinical instrumentation from professional opinion, but no attestation specifically suggests the use of evidence‐based pedagogical standards for clinical teaching. Dental hygiene programmes could benefit from further research on pre‐clinic instrument selection and sequencing as a way of standardised clinical teaching. These clinical implications could advance the science for standardised teaching of clinical instrumentation and sequencing in dental hygiene education.
Cleaning Efficacy of Toothpastes With Varying Abrasiveness—An In Vitro Investigation on Bovine Dentin
Authors: Fragapane Francesco , Pulfer Anina M. , Hamza Blend , Attin Thomas , Wegehaupt Florian J.
Published: October 2024

Objective

To determine how differences in abrasiveness (RDA) influence cleaning capabilities of toothpastes.

Methods

For this in vitro trial, 60 bovine dentin samples were prepared and divided into six groups (G1–G6; n = 10). Groups G1–G5 were arranged in order from low to high toothpaste abrasiveness (G1: RDA: 12, G2: RDA: 29, G3: RDA: 43, G4: RDA: 71, and G5: RDA: 143). Samples in group G6 were used as a negative control and later brushed with pure artificial saliva. In preparation for testing, the dentin samples were stained with a black tea mixture. The respective toothpastes were mixed with artificial saliva in a 1:2 ratio to produce a toothpaste slurry. The samples were brushed for a total of 25 min (with measurement intervals at 2‐, 5‐, 10‐, and 25‐min) using a manual toothbrush in an automated brushing machine. The cleaning efficacy of the toothpastes was determined using photographs connected to a planimeter computer program and statistically evaluated.

Results

Analysis of the median cleaning efficacy values showed that the toothpastes with a higher abrasiveness achieved a greater cleaning effect at each time point. All toothpastes showed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) in their cleaning efficacy (taking into account the median, interquartile range (IQR), minimum and maximum values) after 25 min of brushing.

Conclusions

With increasing RDA value, the cleaning efficiency of the toothpastes tested rises. However, a doubling of the RDA value does not necessarily elicit a twofold increase in cleaning effect.
Deep caries and pulp exposures management preferences in permanent teeth: A survey amongst Spanish dentists
Authors: Bailleul Laura , Ceballos Laura , Doméjean Sophie , Fuentes Victoria
Published: October 2024

Aim

To assess Spanish dentists' management preferences for deep caries removal and exposed pulps in permanent teeth.

Methodology

A web‐based open and anonymous survey was distributed by social media and a specific website for this project amongst dentists practicing in Spain. The questionnaire comprised 40 questions, divided into five sections: (1) demographic data and professional activity; (2) carious tissue removal; (3) decision‐making regarding pulp exposure; (4) direct pulp capping and (5) pulpotomy procedures in permanent teeth. Results were descriptively analysed. Logistic regression (95% CI) analyses and X2 tests were carried out.

Results

A total of 538 responses were received. Half the respondents (53.7%) preferred to perform complete caries excavation for shallow and moderate carious dentin lesions, and selective excavation to firm dentin for deep lesions (57.8%). Selective removal to soft dentin and stepwise removal were much less indicated (15.4% and 10.9%, respectively). Exposed pulps in asymptomatic teeth were treated by direct pulp capping (over 80%), decreasing in the presence of reversible pulpitis symptoms (57.1%). If irreversible pulpitis was diagnosed, a pulpectomy would be performed by 53.5% and 89.9% of the respondents in, respectively, immature and mature teeth. Pulpotomy was performed routinely only by 26.4% of the clinicians. Patients' attitudes and priorities were the most relevant criteria when performing direct pulp capping and pulpotomy, together with the history of pain and the presence of bleeding. Regarding the clinical procedure, dry cotton was preferred to obtain haemostasis and Biodentine was the material of election.

Conclusions

Caries removal preferences and management of pulp exposure by dentists practicing in Spain deviated from vital pulp treatment guidelines, mainly regarding indications and case selection. Pulp exposure was managed by direct pulp capping in asymptomatic cases, whilst immature permanent molars favoured the indication of pulpotomy when pulpitis was diagnosed. Most clinicians used hydraulic calcium silicate cement, specifically Biodentine, to perform vital pulp treatments. Postgraduate formation and continuing education in caries lesions management and vital pulp treatments were consistently related to more conservative and updated decisions.