bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From overlap to distinction: disentangling the concepts of terrorism financing and money laundering
Authors: Honga Irish Scheel , Gikonyo Constance , Asaala Evelyne
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to address the existing gap in the anti-money laundering/counter-financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) regime and explore the possibility and effectiveness of disentangling the nexus between the two concepts.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach undertaken is doctrinal legal research by employing rigorous analysis of the legal terms of terrorism financing and money laundering.

Findings

Upon analysis, the study confirms that the two concepts are distinct; there is a slight overlap in the methods of acquisition of funds for both terrorists and money laundering; however, the purpose and intention of the two are totally separate and therefore creates a need for singular approach in tackling the two concepts. Enhanced collaboration between states and increased financial technologies will aid in better tackling of the two menaces.

Research limitations/implications

The research is limited to a desk review approach.

Practical implications

The study confirms the argument that the AML/CFT approach is ineffective in tackling money laundering and terrorism financing.

Originality/value

This paper delves into a deeper analysis of money laundering and terrorism financing and provides a nuanced understanding of the differences between the two terms.
Virtual communities of practice: nurturing teacher-coordinators’ well-being amidst stress and crisis
Authors: Schrire Odelia Orit , Kirchner Kathrin , Ipsen Christine , Tsybulsky Dina
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This longitudinal study investigated the ways in which virtual communities of practice (VCoPs) can support the well-being of teachers in managerial roles during stressful changes and crises. Specifically, it examined the experiences of these educators to better understand how VCoPs contribute to sustaining well-being in the face of challenges.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative study methodology was utilized, consisting of three rounds of interviews with seven teacher-coordinators, coupled with content analysis to discern patterns and insights. A multidimensional model was then applied to pinpoint the associations between the community’s characteristics and the different approaches implemented by these teacher-coordinators to address stress and crises.

Findings

The analysis revealed a range of coping strategies within the VCoPs for handling stress and crises. Participation in virtual spaces was shown to foster in-depth, rich discussions. The multidimensional model captures how social, emotional and cognitive factors can help teacher coordinators navigate challenges.

Originality/value

This study contributes to a broader understanding of the well-being of educational staff, especially in managerial roles, by exploring the subtle dynamics of a VCoP. The findings highlight the impact of the community on teacher-coordinators' well-being in routine, stressful and crisis situations. These insights can provide valuable guidance for educational practitioners and policymakers to enhance the resilience of the education system to diverse challenges.
Do generation Z students read? Reading habits of the students of Dhaka University
Authors: Islam Md. Anwarul , Muna Jannatul Islam
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The proliferation of digital tools and instant access to information has diversified reading habits among Generation Z (Gen Z) students. The primary objective of this study is to examine the reading habits of Gen Z students at Dhaka University.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey questionnaire method was employed to collect data from 354 university students. We collected research data through printed questionnaires, and randomly selected students to answer survey questions. A total of 500 printed questionnaires were distributed to the seminar library, university hall library and Dhaka University library. Additional efforts made to engage students in classrooms.

Findings

Students prefer printed materials, particularly fiction and enjoy reading at home. The majority have emerged as dormant readers and prefer using mobile phones for reading. Hobbies and interests have been identified as significant influencers in shaping reading habits. Promoting a reading culture, improving access to books, integrating technology, expanding fiction collections, creating engaging content and tailoring outreach strategies are key steps to enhancing the reading habits of the Gen Z students in Bangladesh.

Social implications

These findings provide valuable guidance for policymakers and educators seeking to foster effective reading habits among students by aligning strategies with their preferences and needs.

Originality/value

This study offers original insights into the reading habits of Gen Z students at Dhaka University, focus on enhancing library collections, particularly in fiction literature, addresses challenges such as space constraints and reflects innovative approaches to fostering improved reading habits among students.
Accounting for credit card rewards programmes: the perceptions of managers and experts
Authors: Brink Sophia , Steenkamp Gretha , Odendaal Aletta
Published: November 2024

Purpose

International Financial Reporting Standard (IFRS) 15 required credit card rewards programmes (CCRPs) to reconsider their accounting practices. While Brink and Steenkamp (2023a, 2023b) developed a theoretical accounting model for CCRP transactions after the effective date of IFRS 15, this model should be validated and finalised as an accounting framework. Thus, the purpose of the present paper was to examine the validity of Brink and Steenkamp’s (2023b) model by interviewing CCRP managers and obtaining the opinions of experts in the field, and then develop a framework for accounting for CCRP transactions after the effective date of IFRS 15.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative exploratory approach within an interpretive paradigm was applied. Fifteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with South African CCRP managers, after which the Delphi technique (with 22 experts) was used. All data collected were analysed using thematic analysis, after which the CCRP accounting framework was finalised.

Findings

The study confirmed parts of the theoretical model, updated the model for what was evident in practice (e.g., not identifying interest as a relevant revenue stream, not differentiating between an open-loop and closed-loop structure and not including interest in the interchange fee) and improved the model by including alternative accounting treatments and additional guidance (e.g., to determine how the CCRP transaction should be viewed and to determine the value of award credits without an observable value).

Practical implications

The CCRP accounting framework provides practical guidelines for CCRP accounting and will assist managers of CCRPs in their decision-making processes and the application of judgement.

Originality/value

The study developed a CCRP accounting framework embedded in a decision tree and included all possible alternatives for accounting for CCRP transactions, which is a novel contribution to the field.
The professionalization of a national sport organization as event hosting legacy
Authors: Choi Kyu Ha , Leopkey Becca
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The role of a national sport organization (NSO) is prominent when a country hosts a mega-sporting event since the organization is responsible for athlete preparation and coordinating with other organizations to ensure successful hosting. This research examines the impact of hosting a mega-sporting event on the professionalization of an NSO and its consequences on the sport, using the case of the Korea Ice Hockey Association (KIHA).

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilizes a qualitative single-case study approach grounded in an interpretivist perspective. Data for this study included semi-structured interviews with key individuals (n = 16) and archival materials.

Findings

The findings indicate that hosting a mega-sporting event was a strong catalyst for the professionalization of the KIHA. KIHA underwent changes in its organizational structures and processes, human resources and interorganizational linkages, all of which contributed to significant transformations in the sport during the event preparation period.

Originality/value

The study elucidates how hosting can lead to increased professionalization and its subsequent impact on the sport. However, the current case demonstrates that the KIHA overlooked certain impacts of professionalization (e.g. internal conflicts and neglected parts of the sport) that should be enacted in order to further the sport’s development. Therefore, NSOs and event stakeholders must carefully assess their sport’s environment and attributes.
Does diversity matter? Explaining the effects of team diversity on team performance using data from a student’s business simulation game
Authors: Zumkley Marvin , Sage Felix , de Dios Panal Stefan , Prinz Joachim
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine the impact of different diversity criteria (age and gender) on team performance using a business simulation game, where performance is operationalized by market valuation (Tobin’s Q) and profitability (cumulative net income).

Design/methodology/approach

The authors collected data of a business simulation game at a German public university (128 student groups and 645 individuals). Using multiple linear regression models, they investigated the impact of the different diversity criteria on team performance.

Findings

The authors found no significant effects of gender diversity on market valuation and profitability. However, the results of this study indicate a positive relationship between age diversity and both performance variables.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the debate on the relationship between diversity and team performance by using data from a business simulation game. This study adds value by considering different diversity factors, objective performance indicators and the endogeneity of team formation (the seminar leaders randomly assign students to teams) which has not been applied in similar studies yet. Because of the setting of a simulated business game, the results could also be applied to the real economy where we observe working teams every day.
What drives the overall technical efficiency of farm businesses in the Wheatbelt of Western Australia? Analysis of persistent and transient efficiencies in the presence of firm effects
Authors: West Steele C. , Mugera Amin W. , Kingwell Ross S.
Published: November 2024

This study enhances our comprehension of the performance of farm businesses in Western Australia by estimating persistent and transient technical efficiency measures in the presence of firm‐level effects. The analysis is based on a balanced panel data set of 54 farm businesses from the years 2002 to 2011. We employ Kumbhakar et al.'s (2014, Journal of Productivity Analysis, 41, 321) model to estimate persistent efficiency and firm effects separately, as well as Kumbhakar's and Heshmati's (1995, American Journal of Agricultural Economics, 77, 660) model where these two factors are confounded. Furthermore, we investigate the factors that influence transient and persistent technical efficiency. Our findings reveal that failing to differentiate between persistent technical efficiency and firm effects underestimates the estimates of persistent and overall technical efficiency. This underestimation may result in misguided policy recommendations for improving the technical performance of farm businesses. We also find that persistent efficiency dominates overall technical efficiency. The significant determinants of persistent overall technical efficiency include the regional rainfall zone where a farm business is located, the managerial competency of the farm operator denoted by their age and off‐farm activities. Off‐farm income plays a crucial role in determining transient technical efficiency.
Recreational reading as a leisure activity: Perspectives from Georgian and Finnish hearing and deaf students
Authors: Gviniashvili Zhuzhuna
Published: November 2024

The benefits of recreational reading for academic success are clear. However, the full potential of recreational reading for socialisation and well‐being remains untapped by young readers. Studies of young readers' recreational reading intentions and perceived barriers to translating intentions into reading are scarce. Deaf and hard‐of‐hearing students have been particularly excluded from research on leisure reading. Using a mixed methods approach, this study investigates Finnish and Georgian students' attitudes towards leisure reading and the relationship between their reading intentions and actual reading. Students' engagement in recreational reading is assessed through a quantitative survey, while their attitudes and intentions towards reading are revealed through focus group interviews. The results of this study suggest that students generally have positive attitudes towards reading, regardless of their country of origin and degree of hearing loss. Furthermore, the analysis reveals a wide range of barriers to reading, the most common of which are long school days, large amounts of homework, limited free time and preferences for other leisure activities. Some speculative findings from this study will be used as a basis for further research, focusing on reading during COVID‐19.
No practice effect on the classification accuracy of the response time concealed information test
Authors: Lukács Gáspár , Matsuda Izumi
Published: November 2024

The Response Time Concealed Information Test can reveal that a person recognizes a relevant item (probe, e.g., a murder weapon) among other, irrelevant items (controls), based on slower responses to the probe compared to the controls. A previous study (Lukács, 2022, JARMAC) analyzed the data of 14 experiments and demonstrated that classification accuracy is increased by increased test length (i.e., increased number of trials included in the analysis). However, that study left the important question open whether prior practice (whose trials are not included in the analysis) influences the classification accuracy of subsequent testing (i.e., subsequent trials included in the analysis). Reanalyzing the same data from the 14 experiments (comprising 2223 individual tests), we show that different sections of the test (each with the same number of trials), such as the first and second half of each examined test, do not differ substantially in their classification accuracy. The main implications for real‐life application are that, at least up to about 600 trials, prior practice does not affect subsequent tests' results, and the number of examined relevant items or their order of presentation may be freely chosen without compromising the method's validity.
Evaluation of interferents in sampling materials for analysis of post‐explosion residues (explosive emulsion/ANFO) using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC/MS)
Authors: Logrado Lúcio Paulo Lima , Braga Jez Willian Batista
Published: November 2024

Chemical analysis aimed at identifying post‐explosion residues is critical for investigating crimes or accidents involving explosives, establishing it as a vital area of forensic chemistry. In general, only trace amounts remain in samples analyzed for this purpose, making the presence of interferents a constant concern. Therefore, understanding the materials used from collection to sample preparation is essential for this type of analysis. This study focuses on organic contaminants in collection and laboratory materials analyzed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS), complementing a previous study by Mauricio et al. (2020), which addressed inorganic contaminants in materials used for similar purposes in ion chromatography (IC). No prior studies have specifically investigated the potential organic interferences introduced by various materials commonly used in forensic laboratories for sample pre‐processing, storage, and evidence collection in this context. Plastic films, bottle caps, disposable gloves, syringes, swabs, disposable cups, plastic tubes, and plastic pipettes were examined. GC/MS analyses revealed that certain materials, particularly syringe plungers, gloves, and plastic films, can interfere with the detection of post‐explosion residues from explosive emulsions and ANFO (ammonium nitrate‐fuel oil). These findings emphasize the importance of evaluating materials for potential interferences prior to sample collection and processing to minimize contamination risks. This study provides significant insights into how commonly used laboratory materials can impact forensic analysis, thereby enhancing the reliability of post‐explosion residue analysis and supporting more accurate forensic investigations.
Antibiotic beads found with a skeletal example of complications from a hip replacement
Authors: Alexander Alexia , Smith Alexander J. , Connor Melissa A.
Published: November 2024

During maceration, a string of beads was found near the surgically modified right os coxa and femur of the remains of a 55‐year‐old woman donated to the Forensic Investigation Research Station at Colorado Mesa University. The remains were initially used in the study of decomposition of human remains, and then macerated to clean the skeleton. Documentation on this decedent noted three separate “hip replacement” surgeries, but no other details. The surgical modifications include significant alterations to the right os coxa and femur consistent with a Girdlestone procedure, generally used to treat an infected hip replacement unresponsive to other treatment. In this procedure, the surgeon removes the femoral head, and in this case, also the portion of the replacement in the os coxa. In this individual, a portion of the proximal femur was reflected, possibly to reduce contact with the os coxa. The beads are consistent with antibiotic beads, used to treat the infection that likely necessitated the Girdlestone procedure. Both the operation and the inclusion of the antibiotic beads are unusual and are potentially useful in the identification process.
Locus coeruleus vulnerability to tau hyperphosphorylation in a rat model
Authors: Omoluabi Tamunotonye , Hasan Zia , Piche Jessie E. , Flynn Abeni R. S. , Doré Jules J. E. , Walling Susan G. , Weeks Andrew C. W. , Benoukraf Touati , Yuan Qi
Published: November 2024

Post‐mortem investigations indicate that the locus coeruleus (LC) is the initial site of hyperphosphorylated pretangle tau, a precursor to neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) found in Alzheimer's disease (AD). The presence of pretangle tau and NFTs correlates with AD progression and symptomatology. LC neuron integrity and quantity are linked to cognitive performance, with degeneration strongly associated with AD. Despite their importance, the mechanisms of pretangle tau‐induced LC degeneration are unclear. This study examined the transcriptomic and mitochondrial profiles of LC noradrenergic neurons after transduction with pseudophosphorylated human tau. Tau hyperphosphorylation increased the somatic expression of the L‐type calcium channel (LTCC), impaired mitochondrial health, and led to deficits in spatial and olfactory learning. Sex‐dependent alterations in gene expression were observed in rats transduced with pretangle tau. Chronic LTCC blockade prevented behavioral deficits and altered mitochondrial mRNA expression, suggesting a potential link between LTCC hyperactivity and mitochondrial dysfunction. Our research provides insights into the consequences of tau pathology in the originating structure of AD.
Biologics and airway remodeling in asthma: early, late, and potential preventive effects
Authors: Varricchi G. , Poto R. , Lommatzsch M. , Brusselle G. , Braido F. , Virchow J. C. , Canonica G. W.
Published: November 2024

Although airway remodeling in severe and/or fatal asthma is still considered irreversible, its individual components as a cause of clinical symptoms and/or lung function changes remain largely unknown. While inhaled glucocorticoids have not consistently been shown to affect airway remodeling, biologics targeting specific pathways of airway inflammation have been shown to improve lung function, mucus plugging, and airway structural changes that can exceed those seen with glucocorticoids. This superiority of biologic treatment, which cannot be solely explained by insufficient doses or limited durations of glucocorticoid therapies, needs to be further explored. For this field of research, we propose a novel classification of the potential effects of biologics on airway remodeling into three temporal effects: early effects (days to weeks, primarily modulating inflammatory processes), late effects (months to years, predominantly affecting structural changes), and potential preventive effects (outcomes of early treatment with biologics). For the identification of potential preventive effects of biologics, we call for studies exploring the impact of early biological treatment on airway remodeling in patients with moderate‐to‐severe asthma, which should be accompanied by a long‐term evaluation of clinical parameters, biomarkers, treatment burden, and socioeconomic implications.
Short‐course subcutaneous treatment with birch pollen allergoids greatly improves symptom and medication scores in birch allergy
Authors: Mösges Ralph , Raskopf Esther , Klimek Ludger , Pfaar Oliver , Zielen Stefan , Xenofontos Elena , Decker Lea , Neuhof Christian , Rybachuk Anna , Acikel Cengizhan , Sahin Hacer , Allekotte Silke , del Pozo Collado Sandra , Subiza José Luis , Casanovas Miguel , Cuevas Mandy
Published: November 2024

Background

Subcutaneous immunotherapy has emerged as an effective option for treating allergic diseases. Here, we assessed the clinical impact of the mannan‐conjugated birch pollen polymerized allergoid T502 in birch pollen‐induced allergic rhinoconjunctivitis.

Methods

In this prospective, randomized, double‐blind placebo‐controlled phase III trial, 298 birch pollen–allergic adult patients were treated across 28 trial sites in Germany. Patients received either placebo or 23,000 mTU T502 subcutaneously over five pre‐seasonal visits. Efficacy was assessed by comparing the combined symptom and medication score (CSMS) between placebo and T502 during the peak birch pollen season 2022. Safety, tolerability and immunologic effects were also analyzed.

Results

During the peak birch pollen season, the median CSMS of the T502 group was reduced by 33% (p = 0.002) compared to placebo. The median daily symptom score and daily medication score were reduced by 30.4% (p < 0.001) and 56.3% (p = 0.045), respectively. Health related quality of life improved as reflected by reduction of RQLQ values by 31.5% (p < 0.0001). Production of Bet v 1 sIgG4 and Bet v 1 sIgG increased up to 6.2‐fold and 3‐fold respectively in the T502 group (p < 0.0001). The sIgE/sIgG4 ratio was strongly reduced in the T502 group at V7 (−62.9%, p < 0.0001).

No fatalities nor serious adverse events were reported. In total, 16 systemic allergic reactions occurred (Grade I/II).

Conclusions

Treatment with T502 significantly reduced symptoms and medication need in rhinoconjunctivitis patients. The treatment is well tolerated and safe.
Neurocognitive functioning remained unchanged in adults with phenylketonuria: Report of a 15‐year follow‐up
Authors: Feldmann Reinhold , Leberer Eva Philippa , Fromm Juliane , Och Ulrike , Weglage Josef , Rutsch Frank
Published: November 2024

Aim

The long‐term prognosis of treated phenylketonuria (PKU) is a controversial issue. A controlled long‐term study was performed to assess the neuropsychological outcome in adult patients with early treated PKU.

Methods

We investigated 27 patients aged 34–55 years (median age: 47 years) and 19 healthy controls, matched for age and socio‐economic status. Patients and controls were assessed for their full‐scale IQ (FSIQ), attention and information‐processing abilities. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain was performed in all patients. Neuropsychological assessments and MRI were repeated at a 15‐year follow‐up.

Results

In the entire interval of 15 years, cognitive performance of patients and controls remained unchanged. Older adult patients showed poorer cognitive performance at all assessment times compared to young adult patients and controls. Cognitive performance showed no correlation to MRI results. FSIQ, however, was significantly correlated with blood phenylalanine levels in the adolescent years of adult patients older than 47 years.

Conclusion

Cognitive performance in adult patients with early treated PKU does not seem to deteriorate in a 15 years interval. Neuropsychological assessment revealed constant modest neurocognitive impairment in patients older than 47 years. This seems to refer to an early relaxation of diet that was recommended when the older patients were adolescents.
Recurrent laryngeal nerve lymph node dissection with subcomplete sealing using advanced bipolar energy device in minimally invasive esophagectomy
Authors: Hayashi Masato , Fujita Takeshi , Matsushita Hisayuki
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) palsy is a complication that must be avoided during esophagectomy. While RLN injury is thought to be caused by thermal spread from electric devices, electric devices are useful to avoid bleeding. When dissecting lymph nodes around RLNs, to seal small vessels, we use subcomplete technique with advanced bipolar. We describe our surgical technique, termed the subcomplete sealing technique, in RLN lymph node dissection.

Materials and Surgical Technique

The first step is to perform blunt dissection with forceps on both sides of the esophageal branch near the right RLN. A distance of at least 2 mm from the RLN was preferred. Sealing with advanced bipolar often causes tissue shrinkage, pulling the RLN near the device. To prevent this, sealing should be stopped before reaching completion. Although the sealing was not complete, it was sufficient to seal the small vessels. After subcomplete sealing, the sealed tissues were dissected using laparoscopic scissors. The lymph nodes around left RLN are dissected in the same manner.

Discussion

A total of 76 patients received esophagectomy with the subcomplete technique. Grade IIIa RLN palsy occurred in three cases (3.95%). Over Grade IIIb RLN palsies did not occur. This subcomplete sealing technique can assist surgeons in performing RLN lymph node dissection without bleeding and increasing the rate of RLN palsy.
Identifiability analysis of the fixed‐effects one‐parameter logistic positive exponent model
Authors: González Jorge , Bazán Jorge , Curi Mariana
Published: November 2024

In addition to the usual slope and location parameters included in a regular two‐parameter logistic model (2PL), the logistic positive exponent (LPE) model incorporates an item parameter that leads to asymmetric item characteristic curves, which have recently been shown to be useful in some contexts. Although this model has been used in some empirical studies, an identifiability analysis (i.e., checking the (un)identified status of a model and searching for identifiablity restrictions to make an unidentified model identified) has not yet been established. In this paper, we formalize the unidentified status of a large class of fixed‐effects item response theory models that includes the LPE model and related versions of it. In addition, we conduct an identifiability analysis of a particular version of the LPE model that is based on the fixed‐effects one‐parameter logistic model (1PL), which we call the 1PL‐LPE model. The main result indicates that the 1PL‐LPE model is not identifiable. Ways to make the 1PL‐LPE useful in practice and how different strategies for identifiability analyses may affect other versions of the model are also discussed.
Regularized Bayesian algorithms for Q‐matrix inference based on saturated cognitive diagnosis modelling
Authors: Jin Yi , Chen Jinsong
Published: November 2024

Q‐matrices are crucial components of cognitive diagnosis models (CDMs), which are used to provide diagnostic information and classify examinees according to their attribute profiles. The absence of an appropriate Q‐matrix that correctly reflects item‐attribute relationships often limits the widespread use of CDMs. Rather than relying on expert judgment for specification and post‐hoc methods for validation, there has been a notable shift towards Q‐matrix estimation by adopting Bayesian methods. Nevertheless, their dependency on Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) estimation requires substantial computational burdens and their exploratory tendency is unscalable to large‐scale settings. As a scalable and efficient alternative, this study introduces the partially confirmatory framework within a saturated CDM, where the Q‐matrix can be partially defined by experts and partially inferred from data. To address the dual needs of accuracy and efficiency, the proposed framework accommodates two estimation algorithms—an MCMC algorithm and a Variational Bayesian Expectation Maximization (VBEM) algorithm. This dual‐channel approach extends the model's applicability across a variety of settings. Based on simulated and real data, the proposed framework demonstrated its robustness in Q‐matrix inference.
CRCI2NA inaugural symposium: A meeting on tumor and immune ecosystems
Authors: Guen Vincent J. , André‐Grégoire Gwennan , Beauvillain Céline , Boury Frank , Chauvet Morgane , Dupuy Aurore M. M. , Fonteneau Jean‐François , Gagne Katia , Gavard Julie , Gomez‐Bougie Patricia , Grasset Eloïse , Jardine Jane , Lamoureux François , Laurent‐‐Blond Mélanie , Letouzé Éric , Macé Yanis , Maurice Sandrine , Pecqueur Claire , Pouliquen Daniel , Rbah‐Vidal Latifa , Pellat‐Deceunynck Catherine , Juin Philippe P.
Published: November 2024

The CRCI2NA inaugural symposium, a meeting on tumor and immune ecosystems, took place in the vibrant and picturesque city of Nantes. The meeting gathered world‐renowned experts in cancer biology and immunology. It showcased the most advanced science on mechanisms driving cellular heterogeneity, plasticity, and signaling in normal and cancer cellular ecosystems, which contribute to cancer development, progression, and therapeutic resistance. Recent developments in cancer immunotherapy and anti‐tumor strategies were also discussed to collectively assess new therapeutic vulnerabilities to defeat cancer.
Depression in children: Impact of the father companionship and peer relationship
Authors: Feng Xing , Ding Ding , Lu Di
Published: November 2024

Reasons for the increased incidence of depression in Chinese children remain poorly understood. Therefore, this study explored the influence of paternal companionship and peer relationships on depression in children based on OLS method using data reported by 2498 children from China (children Mage 10.7; 52.1% girls). We found that both variables could alleviate depression among children, but the effect of peer relationships was significantly greater than that of paternal companionship. This conclusion remains robust after considering gender, age and family structure. Heterogeneity studies have found that paternal companionship significantly impact boys, while peer relationships significantly impact girls. Mechanism analysis demonstrated that both factors can indirectly alleviate depression in children by regulating anxiety. Our research results emphasize the importance of increasing paternal companionship and peer relationships to alleviate depression in children.
Influence of Lateral Hard‐Tissue Grafting on Peri‐Implant Health or Disease: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Begić Amira , Schwarz Frank , Obreja Karina , Dahmer Iulia , Recktenwald Julie , Parvini Puria , Ramanauskaite Ausra
Published: November 2024

Aim

To investigate the influence of lateral hard‐tissue grafting performed simultaneously to implant placement on peri‐implant health or disease.

Materials and Methods

A total of 299 patients exhibiting 897 implants placed either simultaneously with lateral bone grafting using a bovine bone mineral with or without adjunctive native collagen membrane (n = 131/269 patients/implants; LatGr group) or at pristine bone sites without lateral bone grafting (n = 168/628 patients/implants; NoGr group) were enrolled in this cross‐sectional analysis. Clinical outcomes (i.e., modified plaque index (mPI), bleeding on probing (BOP), probing depth (PD), mucosal recession (MR)), keratinized mucosa (KM), and the frequency of peri‐implant disease were evaluated. Univariate and multiple ordinal regression analyses with mixed effects were conducted to identify factors associated with peri‐implant disease.

Results

After a mean follow‐up period of 59.47 ± 24.66 months, mPI, BOP, and KM values were significantly higher in the control group, whereas no difference between the groups was found for PD and MR. Peri‐implantitis was diagnosed in 31.30% of patients and 13.4% of implants in the LatGr group, and in 32.74% of patients and 24.8% of implants in the NoGr group. The corresponding values for peri‐implant mucositis at the patient and implant level in the LatGr and NoGr groups were 29.77% and 29.0%, and 26.19% and 28.5%, respectively. Implants of the LatGr group were associated with a significantly lower chance to be affected by peri‐implant disease (OR = 0.69, 95%‐CI: (−0.72, −0.03), p = 0.032). The presence of plaque at implant sites and smoking significantly correlated with peri‐implant disease (OR = 2.92, 95%‐CI: (2.11, 4.03), p < 0.001 and OR = 0.22; 95%‐CI: (0.06, 0.84), p = 0.027, respectively).

Conclusions

Lateral hard‐tissue grafting performed simultaneously with implant placement demonstrated comparable peri‐implant tissue health to pristine bone sites without lateral bone grafting.
Effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Targeting Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex and Orbitofrontal Cortex on Somatic Symptoms in Patients With Major Depressive Disorder: A Randomized, Double‐Blind, Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Shi Shuxiang , Huang Haijing , Zhang Mengke , Chen Yiming , Yang Weichieh , Wang Fan , Kong Shuqi , Zhou Ni , Wei Zheyi , Chen Shentse , Lyu Dongbin , Wu Chenglin , Huang Qinte , Zhang Qinting , Hong Wu
Published: November 2024

Aim

There is a lack of research on transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) for the treatment of somatic symptoms in major depressive disorder (MDD) and the suitable stimulating brain region. We investigated the efficacy of tDCS targeting the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) versus orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) on depressive somatic symptoms and somatic anxiety in patients with MDD and aimed to identify the appropriate stimulating brain regions.

Methods

In this randomized, double‐blind, sham‐controlled study, a total of 70 patients diagnosed with MDD were randomly allocated into DLPFC group, OFC group, and Sham group. Subjects participated in 2 weeks of 10 primary interventions and subsequently 2‐week maintenance interventions weekly (20 min, 2 mA).

Results

The DLPFC group showed a more significant improvement in somatic symptoms compared to the Sham group at week 2. At the maintenance and follow‐up stages, the DLPFC group outperformed the Sham and OFC groups, but the difference with the Sham group was not significant. Neither active group demonstrated superiority over the Sham group in improving depression and anxiety.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the tDCS targeting DLPFC may be a potentially effective therapeutic target for alleviating somatic symptoms in patients with MDD.
Recurrence rates after strictureplasty for small bowel Crohn's disease remain high in the era of biologics
Authors: Nasasra A. , Morrison T. E. M. , Luberto A. , Carvello M. , Williams K. J. , Davies J. , Spinelli A. , Mehta A. M. , Warusavitarne J. H.
Published: November 2024

Aim

Despite advancements in therapeutic options for Crohn's disease (CD), strictureplasty is a mainstay bowel‐preserving technique for small bowel CD. We sought to audit international practice across three high‐volume centres since the widespread use of biologic medication.

Methods

A retrospective audit was performed for all strictureplasties undertaken for small bowel CD, over a 15‐year period (2006–2021), in three high‐volume centres in the United Kingdom and Italy. Primary endpoints were clinical recurrence and reoperation for recurrence.

Results

In all, 123 patients were included; 58% were men, 25% smoked and 60% had previous abdominal surgery for CD. Median age was 40 years (interquartile range 30–52 years), mean body mass index 22 (15–31) and median disease duration 138 months (81–255 months). 42% had been treated with biologics preoperatively. In total 338 strictureplasties were performed in 123 patients, with a median of two per patient (interquartile range 1–3). Complications occurred in 35%, with 8% scoring Clavien–Dindo Grade 3. There were no Grade 4/5 complications. Postoperative biologic treatment was administered to 84/123 patients (68.3%). Median follow‐up was 54 months. 41/123 patients (33.3%) developed clinical recurrence. Reoperation for recurrent stricturing was performed in 26/123 patients (21%). Clinical recurrence and reoperation rates were significantly higher in patients who continued to smoke after their index surgery.

Conclusion

Strictureplasty remains a safe and effective surgical treatment for small bowel CD. Recurrence and reoperation rates remain high, regardless of postoperative biologic therapy. Smoking significantly increases the risk of recurrence.
Prognostic Nomogram for Predicting Survival in Asian Patients With Small‐Cell Lung Cancer: A Comprehensive Population‐Based Study and External Verification
Authors: Xia Yuanli , Qu Jingjing , Wang Yufang , Zhu Yanping , Zhou Jianying , Zhou Jianya
Published: November 2024

Background

The incidence of small cell lung cancer (SCLC) among Asian patients is on the rise. Nevertheless, there remains a deficiency in precise prognostic models tailored to the specific needs of this patient population. It is imperative to develop a novel nomogram aimed at forecasting the prognosis of Asian SCLC patients.

Methods

The SEER database supplied data on 661 Asian SCLC patients, who were then divided into training and internal validation sets through a random selection process. In addition, we identified 212 patients from a Chinese medical institution for the purpose of creating an external validation cohort. To forecast survival, we employed both univariate and multivariate analyses. The performance of our nomogram was assessed through calibration plots, the concordance index (C‐index), and decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

Five independent prognostic factors were determined and integrated into the nomogram. C‐index values for the training and internal validation cohorts were 0.774 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.751–0.797) and 0.731 (95%CI = 0.690–0.772), respectively. In the external validation cohort, the C‐index is 0.712 (95% CI = 0.655–0.7692). Calibration curves demonstrated highly accurate predictions. When compared to the AJCC staging system, our model exhibited improved net benefits in DCA. Furthermore, the risk stratification system effectively differentiated patients with varying survival risks.

Conclusion

We have created a novel nomogram for predicting the survival of Asian patients with SCLC. This nomogram has been subjected to external validation and has shown its superiority over the conventional TNM staging system. It offers a more precise and reliable means of forecasting the prognosis of Asian SCLC patients.
A Novel Scale for Diagnosis of Pulmonary Ground‐Glass Nodules: A Multicenter and Ambispective Cohort Study
Authors: Yu Minhao , Cheng Yalin , Wen Tao , Zhang Liming , Wei Xiubo , Wang Yonghong , Du Jiang , Xie GuangKe , Bi Lei
Published: November 2024

Background

A screening tool was devised to aid the diagnosis and treatment of ground‐glass nodules (GGNs).

Methods

The current ambispective cohort study included retrospective collation of 20 variables synthesizing a patient's clinical characteristics, serum tumor markers, and CT results, which allowed division into noninvasive (benign, atypical adenomatous hyperplasia, and adenocarcinoma in situ) and invasive (minimally invasive and invasive adenocarcinomas) tumors to build a prediction nomogram and GGN screening scale. The model was verified internally. A prospective cohort of patients was randomly divided by envelope method into those assessed by the GGN screening scale and those assessed via CT values. The diagnostic efficiencies were compared to allow external verification of the model.

Result

A total of 223 patients with 225 GGNs were recruited into the retrospective cohort between January 2021 and December 2022. Multivariable analysis showed sex, diameter, air bronchogram, and vessel convergence sign to be independent factors for prediction of noninvasive and invasive GGNs. Internal verification showed the model had a sensitivity of 70.7% and specificity of 75.0% with the Youden index at 0.457 and area under the curve (AUC) of 0.793 (95% CI: 0.734–0.852). Calibration curves indicated good internal stability (p = 0.357). Between January 2023 and March 2023, 147 patients with 148 GGNs were recruited into the prospective cohort. External verification showed the model had a sensitivity of 92.4% and specificity of 40.0% with the Youden index at 0.324 and AUC of 0.678 (95% CI: 0.509–0.847). Calibration curves indicated good external stability (p = 0.088). The scale was shown to have a sensitivity of 75.00%, specificity of 37.50%, positive predictive value of 91.53%, negative predictive value of 14.29%, and accuracy of 71.25%.

Conclusion

The GGN screening scale has high sensitivity and accuracy, making it suitable for diagnosis of GGNs.
A museum of international standard in Patna, India: The predicament of loss and revival
Authors: Bharadwaj Akash
Published: November 2024

This essay locates the creation of the Bihar Museum within the context of emerging international and transnational aspirations, especially in the post‐liberalization era, and the regional space of Bihar and its political economy. It argues that this positioning, where the museum is supposed to cater to both the regional and the transnational, or the local and the global, presents opportunities as well as challenges. In other words, the state's branding of its identity through the museum creates what James Clifford called the predicament of culture: a chronotopic imagination that speaks of both loss and revival. The essay posits that the new Bihar Museum creates an anticipation of a grand Bihari identity that seems imminent but is never fully realized.
An Exploration of the Co‐Occurrence of Hallucinations and Suicidal Mental Imagery Among Psychiatrically Hospitalised Adolescents at High Risk for Suicide
Authors: Thompson Elizabeth C. , Visser Katherine , Nail Margaret , Lawrence Hannah R. , Hunt Jeffrey , Wolff Jennifer C.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Adolescents with psychosis‐spectrum symptoms are at particularly high risk for suicide, however, little is known about how suicidal cognitions manifest in this population. Suicidal cognitions can occur as verbal thoughts and/or mental images of suicide, and mental images may be indicative of a higher risk for suicidal behaviours. Suicidal mental imagery could be a salient and important suicide‐related risk factor for adolescents with hallucinations in particular, however, the co‐occurrence of these phenomena has yet to be studied. In a sample of psychiatrically hospitalised adolescents, we hypothesize that hallucinations will be associated with increased suicidal mental imagery and suicide attempts.

Methods

This chart review study included data from 219 adolescents admitted to a psychiatric inpatient unit. Adolescents completed an assessment battery probing hallucinations, suicidal cognitions, and suicide attempts.

Results

Adolescents with past‐month hallucinations had higher rates of past‐week suicidal verbal thoughts and suicidal mental imagery, but not suicide attempts, compared to those without hallucinations. Adolescents with hallucinations reported a younger onset of suicidal mental imagery, and they endorsed more frequent imagery. Past‐month hallucinations were significantly and positively associated with suicidal mental imagery, beyond the effects of internalising symptoms. Suicidal mental imagery was positively associated with past‐week suicide attempts, but past‐month hallucinations were not.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that hallucinations are linked to suicidal mental imagery, an important yet under‐studied risk factor for suicidal behaviour. These data highlight the need for more research exploring suicidal mental imagery among high‐risk adolescents experiencing hallucinations to inform suicide risk assessment and intervention.
Mechanical properties of MoW–HfN surrogate cermet fuel for nuclear thermal propulsion
Authors: Mudd James F. , Watts Jeremy , Rosales Jhonathan , Wilkerson Ryan P. , Taylor Brian , Fahrenholtz William , Hilmas Gregory , Graham Joseph
Published: November 2024

The mechanical performance of MoW‐HfN, a surrogate cermet for MoW‐UN Nuclear Thermal Propulsion (NTP) fuel, was characterized from room temperature to 1600°C. The modulus of elasticity and flexure strength were obtained from four‐point bend tests. Those tests revealed a loss of stiffness with increasing temperature and systematic increase in ultimate strength up to about 1400°C. This was followed by loss of ultimate strength and the onset of plastic deformation, attributed to the increased ductility of the MoW matrix above 1400°C. Chevron notch tests show that failure originates from features with a critical flaw size of ∼30 εm, which is comparable to the mean particle size of the ceramic phase. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and Williamson–Hall (WH) analysis suggest that residual stress may contribute to the observed strength‐versus‐temperature behavior.
Toward a Conceptual Model of Academic Translation Competence
Authors: Károly Krisztina
Published: November 2024

Different cultures have distinct conceptions of knowledge and ways of defining, generating and communicating knowledge. Therefore, multilingualism in academia has been shown to be instrumental in preserving the various systems of knowledge, equality of opportunity in science and enhancing the international competitiveness of scholars whose native language is not the lingua franca. The actors of translation and the strategies they work with (domestication and foreignisation) play a unique role in this, as their decisions may foster or hinder linguistic and epistemic diversity. Despite its pronounced significance, however, relatively little is known about the stereotypical competences required for academic translation. As translation in science is not merely a philological issue, this conceptual study follows a consilient approach and integrates the outcomes of research from several disciplines and research perspectives to propose a theory‐based, multi‐componential model of academic translation competence as a macrocompetence. Based on the model, a conceptual definition of the construct of academic translation competence is provided to identify what exactly is to be observed and measured for its study and to generate preliminary hypotheses related to the construct. The study has implications not only for the theory, practice and training of academic translation but also for the disciplinary training of researchers.