bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pedagogical agent positioning in external videos improves English academic presentation proficiency in desktop virtual reality settings
Authors: Li Xiaofei , Lan Yu‐Ju , Pi Zhongling , Qi Grace Yue , Grant Scott , Sun Jinmei
Published: October 2024

English academic presentation (EAP) is an indispensable skill set of academic communication for university students. With the rapid development of desktop virtual reality (DVR), its application in language learning is worth exploring. The present study aimed to examine whether there is an improvement and difference in students' EAP by learning from the DVR with an in‐video pedagogical agent (PA) or an out‐of‐video PA. Adopting a between‐subject experimental design, a total of 64 students were randomly assigned to one of two group conditions depending on whether the PA was inside or outside the lecture video embedded in DVR. Participants' EAP performance, attention allocation and behavioural patterns were measured and analysed. As hypothesized, t‐tests, repeated ANOVA and lag sequence analysis showed that the participants who learned from the DVR with an out‐of‐video PA showed better learning performance, less attention allocation on content and more frequent behavioural patterns than those with an in‐video PA. Overall, our findings suggest that in a VR educational environment of video lectures, instructors should consider using an out‐of‐video PA to increase their social presence and improve students' learning experience.

Practitioner notes

What is already known about this topic

EAP is an indispensable skill set of academic communication for university students.

PA is an effective social cue in video lectures to promote learning.

VR has been widely applied in language learning.

What this paper adds

Reveals the relationship between the PA's positioning and the learners' EAP performance and deepens the understanding of the PA's positioning in video lectures of a DVR learning environment.

Provides empirical analysis of natural eye‐tracking during the video learning in DVR scene and EAP data during the experimental condition.

Students who learned from the DVR with an out‐of‐video PA showed better learning performance, less attention allocation on content and more frequent behavioural patterns than those with an in‐video PA.

Implications for practice and/or policy

Designers are encouraged to use DVR with an out‐of‐video PA to enhance students' social presence and learning experience.
Exploring the developmental changes in and the relationship between resilience and anxiety and depression in older gastric cancer survivors: A latent growth mixture model and random intercept cross‐lagged panel model analysis
Authors: Guo Yinning , Wang Ting , Miao Xueyi , Ding Lingyu , Zhu Hanfei , Zhao Kang , Xu Ting , Tang Chulei , Xu Xinyi , Xu Qin
Published: October 2024

Objectives

This study aims to investigate the independent and joint trajectories of resilience, anxiety, and depression symptoms and research the interaction between older gastric cancer survivors' resilience and anxiety–depression during the period of 1 year after surgery.

Methods

The participants were 381 older gastric cancer survivors, with a mean age of 69 years. Resilience, anxiety, and depression symptoms were assessed immediately after surgery, and at 3, 6, and 12 months post‐surgery, respectively. A longitudinal design was employed to capture the dynamic changes in resilience, anxiety, and depression levels among older gastric cancer survivors post‐surgery. Latent growth mixture model and random intercept cross‐lagged panel model were used to analyse the trajectories of resilience and anxiety–depression and the interaction between them.

Results

Two latent trajectories were identified for the resilience, four latent trajectories were identified for the anxiety, and five latent trajectories were identified for the depression, respectively, with three joint trajectories identified: gradual‐increasing resilience, gradual‐decreasing anxiety, and depression group (10.0%); gradual‐decreasing resilience, gradual‐increasing anxiety, and depression group (21.2%); and rapid‐growth resilience, rapid‐decline anxiety, and depression group (68.8%). Resilience among older gastric cancer survivors exhibits significant bidirectional and negative predictive effects on anxiety and depression.

Conclusions

Individual differences in resilience, anxiety, and depression trajectories exist among older gastric cancer survivors, with heterogeneous joint progression patterns, and the relationship between resilience and anxiety–depression appears bidirectional. More sophisticated intervention programmes tailored to the unique characteristics of the relevant trajectories are necessary to enhance resilience and mitigate the risk of anxiety and depression.
Minimally Invasive Sinus Augmentation: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sirinirund Benyapha , Rodriguez Betancourt Amanda B. , Scaini Riccardo , Wu Yu‐Chang , Chan Hsun‐Liang
Published: October 2024

Aim

Technology improvement and a better understanding of sinus anatomy and wound healing in the past decade have allowed the development of minimally invasive surgical techniques. This systematic review focused on identifying and describing these techniques for vertical and lateral sinus augmentation (VSA and LSA).

Materials and Methods

Electronic and hand search were conducted to screen the literature published from January 2003 to May 2024. The selected studies had to include detailed techniques for minimally invasive SA. Data extraction included the study types, sample size, technique/instrument details, and outcome measurements.

Results

A total of 36 articles (27 VSA, 8 LSA with an additional 1 article included both procedures) with 2732 sinus augmentation met the inclusion criteria. Minimally invasive VSA includes the use of modified rotary instruments with stopper, balloon, hydraulic pressure, digital planning, endoscope, and operating microscope. These techniques aim for conservative flap reflection, precise sinus window preparation, and/or controlled sinus membrane elevation. Most of the selected studies (n = 15) did not report the incidence of sinus membrane perforation.

Conclusion

Within the limitations of this review, minimally invasive VSA and LSA achieved sufficient sinus augmentation and implant success with the potential advantages of reduced surgical complications and morbidity. Comparative studies with defined outcomes are encouraged to further validate these useful minimally invasive techniques for SA.
An audit and feedback‐based intervention to improve diabetes management in the year after transfer to adult type 1 diabetes care: A multi‐center quasi‐experimental study
Authors: Shulman Rayzel , Zenlea Ian , Ivers Noah , Austin Peter C. , Li Ping , Clarson Cheril , Landry Alanna , Harrington Jennifer , Mukerji Geetha , Palmert Mark R. , Parsons Janet , Punthakee Zubin , Shah Baiju R.
Published: October 2024

Aim

To test whether an audit and feedback‐based intervention improved HbA1c 12 months after transfer to type 1 diabetes adult care.

Methods

Multi‐centre, quasi‐experimental pre‐post study of an AF‐based intervention targeting paediatric diabetes teams, which encouraged the implementation of an evidence‐informed structured transition process at five paediatric diabetes centres in Ontario, Canada. Participants entered the study at their final paediatric visit. A parallel control cohort was ascertained using population‐based administrative datasets. The primary outcome was HbA1c 12 months after transfer. The main exposure was the study period: pre‐implementation (June 2018–May 2019); early‐implementation (June 2019–September 2020); and late‐implementation (October 2020–September 2021). Multivariable linear regression models were fit separately in each cohort.

Results

There were 449 and 2844 individuals in the intervention and control cohorts, respectively. Twelve months after transfer, participants in the late‐implementation intervention cohort had an HbA1c that was, on average, 0.41% lower than participants in the pre‐implementation period (p = 0.016). Among the control cohort, there was no significant difference in the HbA1c 12 months after transfer between study periods.

Conclusions

We found an effect of the intervention on glycaemic management one year following transfer to adult care. Future work will focus on refining and testing the effectiveness of the intervention in an expanded number of study sites and in collaboration with adult diabetes care providers.
Ultrastructural Perspectives on the Biology and Taphonomy of Tonian Microfossils From the Draken Formation, Spitsbergen
Authors: Fadel Alexandre , Lepot Kevin , Bernard Sylvain , Addad Ahmed , Riboulleau Armelle , Knoll Andrew H.
Published: October 2024

Silicified peritidal carbonates of the Tonian Draken Formation, Spitsbergen, contain highly diverse and well‐preserved microfossil assemblages dominated by filamentous microbial mats, but also including diverse benthic and/or allochthonous (possibly planktonic) microorganisms. Here, we characterize eight morphospecies in focused ion beam (FIB) ultrathin sections using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X‐ray absorption near‐edge structure (XANES) spectromicroscopy. Raman and XANES spectroscopies show the highly aromatic molecular structure of preserved organic matter. Despite this apparently poor molecular preservation, nano‐quartz crystallization allowed for the preservation of various ultrastructures distinguished in TEM. In some filamentous microfossils (Siphonophycus) as well as in all cyanobacterial coccoids, extracellular polysaccharide sheaths appear as bands of dispersed organic nanoparticles. Synodophycus microfossils, made up of pluricellular colonies of coccoids, contain organic walls similar to the F‐layers of pleurocapsalean cyanobacteria. In some fossils, internal content occurs as particulate organic matter, forming dense networks throughout ghosts of the intracellular space (e.g., in Salome svalbardensis filaments), or scarce granules (in some Chroococcales). In some chroococcalean microfossils (Gloeodiniopsis mikros, and also possibly Polybessurus), we find layered internal contents that are more continuous than nanoparticulate bands defining the sheaths, and with a shape that can be contracted, folded, or invaginated. We interpret these internal layers as the remains of cell envelope substructures and/or photosynthetic membranes thickened by additional cellular material. Some Myxococccoides show a thick (up to ~ 0.9 μm) wall ultrastructure displaying organic pillars that is best reconciled with a eukaryotic affinity. Finally, a large spheroid with ruptured wall, of uncertain affinity, displays a bi‐layered envelope. Altogether, our nanoscale investigations provide unprecedented insights into the taphonomy and taxonomy of this well‐preserved assemblage, which can help to assess the nature of organic microstructures in older rocks.
Redox Gradient Shapes the Chemical Composition of Peatland Microbial Communities
Authors: Milesi Vincent P.
Published: October 2024

The response of soil carbon to climate change and anthropogenic forcing depends on the relationship between the physicochemical variables of the environment and microbial communities. In anoxic soils that store large amounts of organic carbon, it can be hypothesized that the low amount of catabolic energy available leads microbial organisms to minimize the energy costs of biosynthesis, which may shape the composition of microbial communities. To test this hypothesis, thermodynamic modeling was used to assess the link between redox gradients in the ombrotrophic peatland of the Marcell Experimental Forest (Minnesota, USA) and the chemical and taxonomic composition of microbial communities. The average amino acid composition of community‐level proteins, called hereafter model proteins, was calculated from shotgun metagenomic sequencing. The carbon oxidation state of model proteins decreases linearly from −0.14 at 10 cm depth to −0.17 at 150 cm depth. Calculating equilibrium activities of model proteins for a wide range of chemical conditions allows identification of the redox potential of maximum chemical activity. Consistent with redox measurements across peat soils, this model Eh decreases logarithmically from an average value of 300 mV at 10 cm depth, close to the stability domain of goethite relative to Fe2+, to an average value of −200 mV at 150 cm, within the stability domain of CH4 relative to CO2. The correlation identified between the taxonomic abundance and the carbon oxidation state of model proteins enables predicting the evolution of taxonomic abundance as a function of model Eh. The model taxonomic abundance is consistent with the measured gene and taxonomic abundance, which evolves from aerobic bacteria at the surface including Acidobacteria, Proteobacteria, and Verrumicrobia, to anaerobes at depth dominated by Crenarchaeota. These results indicate that the thermodynamic forcing imposed by redox gradient across peat soils shapes both the chemical and taxonomic composition of microbial communities. By providing a mechanistic understanding of the relationship between microbial community and environmental conditions, this work sheds new light on the mechanisms that govern soil microbial life and opens up prospects for predicting geochemical and microbial evolution in changing environments.
Congruent Long‐Term Declines in Carbon and Biodiversity Are a Signature of Forest Degradation
Authors: Betts Matthew G. , Yang Zhiqiang , Gunn John S. , Healey Sean P.
Published: October 2024

Recent global policy initiatives aimed at reducing forest degradation require practical definitions of degradation that are readily monitored. However, consistent approaches for monitoring forest degradation over the long term and at broad scales are lacking. We quantified the long‐term effects of intensive wood harvest on above‐ground carbon and biodiversity at fine resolutions (30 m2) and broad scales (New Brunswick, Canada; 72,908 km2). Model predictions for above‐ground biomass were highly correlated with independent data (r = 0.77). After accounting for carbon stored in wood products, net CO2 emissions from forests for the region from 1985 to 2020 were 141 CO2e Tg (4.02 TgCO2e year−1; 32% of all reported emissions). We found strong positive correlations between locations with declines in above‐ground carbon and habitats for old‐forest bird species, which have lost > 20% habitat over 35 years. High congruence between biodiversity and forest carbon offers potential for policy incentives to conserve both objectives simultaneously and slow rates of forest degradation. These methods could be used to track forest degradation for managed forest regions worldwide.
Evaluation of a Question Prompt List About Cardiovascular Disease Risk and Prevention After Hypertensive Pregnancy: A Pilot Study
Authors: Dhakal Smita , Rankin Bethany , Assaf Taryn , Baker Jane , Chisick Laura , Colella Tracey , Dayan Natalie , Dobbins Maureen , Grace Sherry , Gundy Serena , McCarthy Sheila O'Keefe , Meng Ziran , Murray‐Davis Beth , Neil‐Sztramko Sarah , Nerenberg Kara , Sia Winnie , Smith Graeme , Timofeeva Maria , Gagliardi Anna R.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The aim of this study was to pilot test a question prompt list (QPL) about cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk reduction after hypertensive pregnancy (HDP).

Methods

In a prospective cohort study of adult women who had HDP given the QPL before and surveyed after a physician visit, we assessed perceived person‐centred care, self‐efficacy for self‐management, perceived self‐management and QPL feasibility.

Results

Twenty‐three women participated: 57% of diverse ethno‐cultural groups, 65% < 40 years of age and 48% immigrants. Most scored high for person‐centred care (mean 4.1 ± 0.2/5); and moderately for self‐efficacy (mean 7.4 ± 0.6/10) and self‐management (mean 3.1 ± 0.3/5). Most appreciated QPL design and reported QPL benefits: helped them to prepare for the visit and know what to ask; increased confidence to ask questions, knowledge of the link between HDP and CVD and lifestyle behaviours to reduce CVD risk. Most reported that physicians were receptive to discussing QPL questions.

Conclusion

Women appreciated the QPL and knowledge about self‐management was high but self‐efficacy for or perceived self‐management was moderate. It appears feasible to share a QPL with ethno‐culturally diverse women who can share it with physicians to facilitate discussions about post‐pregnancy HDP‐related CVD risk.

Patient or Public Contribution

This study involved women who experienced HDP and engaged ethno‐culturally diverse women with lived experience of HDP as study advisors in all stages of the research.
Fluoride Concentrations in Different Brands of Toothpaste Marketed in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Vellappally Sajith , Naik Sachin , Al Kheraif Abdulaziz Abdulah , Alayadi Haya , Alageel Omar , Alsarani Majed M. , Ramadoss Ramya , Thomas Nebu George , Alateek Mohammed , Anil Sukumaran
Published: October 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the concentrations of total fluoride (TF), total soluble fluoride (TSF) and ionic fluoride (IF) in various toothpaste brands marketed in Saudi Arabia and compare them with the labelled values.

Methods

Twenty toothpaste brands were randomly selected from supermarkets and hypermarkets in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. For each brand, two samples from different production batches were purchased and labelled as sample 1 and sample 2. TF and TSF were determined chemically, while IF was measured with fluoride electrodes. The measured fluoride concentrations were compared with the labelled values and the recommended 1000–1500 ppm range for effective caries prevention.

Results

In total, 40 toothpaste samples were analysed (20 from each of two batches). For TF, six toothpastes in sample 1 exceeded the standard limit of 1500 ppm, with a range of 2102–2462 ppm, while nine in sample 2 surpassed the limit, ranging from 1538 to 1846 ppm. Conversely, eight toothpastes in sample 1 and two in sample 2 were below the minimum recommended level of 1000 ppm, with ranges of 308–923 ppm and 615–923 ppm, respectively. The TSF ranged from 924 to 2157 ppm in sample 1 and 923–2154 ppm in sample 2. The IF varied from 615 to 2462 ppm in sample 1 and 308–2154 ppm in sample 2.

Conclusions

Most toothpaste brands had fluoride levels within the recommended concentration range. However, a significant number exhibited fluoride levels either below the minimum effective dose or exceeding the maximum recommended limit. Fluoride variance in toothpaste demands awareness for dentists and public health to guide optimal caries prevention.
Adolescents' chronotype and its association with obesity‐related outcomes: The EHDLA study
Authors: Duarte Junior Miguel Angelo , Mesas Arthur Eumann , Chen Sitong , Mello Júlio B. , Olivares‐Arancibia Jorge , Memon Aamir Raoof , Yáñez‐Sepúlveda Rodrigo , Bao Ran , Smith Lee , López‐Gil José Francisco
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study aimed to assess associations between chronotype and obesity‐related indicators in a sample of Spanish adolescents.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study used data from The Eating Healthy and Daily Life Activities (EHDLA) Study, which included a representative sample of adolescents from Spain. A total of 820 adolescents (54.7% girls) aged 12–17 years were included in the analyses. The adolescents' chronotype was determined using the Morningness/Eveningness Scale in Children. Obesity‐related indicators included body mass index, waist circumference, waist‐to‐height ratio, triceps and medial calf skinfolds, sum of skinfolds, and body fat percentage. Generalized linear models were used to examine the relationship between the Morningness‐Eveningness score and chronotype status and the above‐mentioned obesity‐related indicators in adolescents. All analyses were adjusted for sex, age, socioeconomic status, sleep duration, physical activity, sedentary behaviour, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, and energy intake.

Results

The morningness chronotype was associated with higher abdominal obesity (odds ratio [OR] = 1.67, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.12 to 2.50; p = 0.001), waist‐to‐height ratio (unstandardized beta coefficient [B] = 0.01, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.05; p = 0.029) and skinfold calves (B = 1.04 95% CI 0.24 to 1.94; p = 0.011), compared with the intermediate chronotype.

Conclusion

Adolescents with a morningness chronotype may be more prone to abdominal obesity than their counterparts with an intermediate chronotype. Effective intervention‐related approaches can be applied to those with a morningness chronotype.
Recent advances in basic research on prostate cancer: Where we are heading?
Authors: Obinata Daisuke , Yamada Yasutaka , Sumiyoshi Takayuki , Tanegashima Tokiyoshi , Watanabe Ryuta , Kobayashi Hiroaki , Ito Daisuke , Urabe Fumihiko ,   the Japanese Young Urologist Basic Research Collaboration
Published: October 2024

In the over 80 years since androgens were found to play a pivotal role in prostate cancer (PCa) progression, androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) has been a cornerstone in treating advanced PCa. Castration‐resistant PCa persists, however, with some of these tumors evolving to androgen receptor (AR)‐independent forms like neuroendocrine PCa. The development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to PCa is therefore crucial. This review provides an overview of recent basic research in PCa, focusing on two main areas: PCa cells and their tumor microenvironments. The first section describes current knowledge on the intricate mechanisms of AR signaling pathways, emphasizing the roles of coactivators and chromatin state alterations in gene regulation. Genomic analyses have revealed recurrent mutations and copy number alterations critical for precision medicine. Liquid biopsy has become a promising tool for real‐time tumor monitoring, identifying genetic alterations in circulating‐tumor DNA or extracellular vesicles. The second section describes the tumor microenvironment of PCa, highlighting its immunosuppressive landscape and the potential of combining ADT with immunotherapy. Advanced techniques, including single‐cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics offer insights into cellular heterogeneity and interactions within the tumor microenvironment, paving the way for novel therapeutic strategies. Integration of these diverse research areas will provide a comprehensive understanding of the current state and future directions of PCa research, underscoring the importance of personalized medicine and the dynamic nature of cancer treatment strategies.
Association between temperature and air pollutants with atrial fibrillation presentations to emergency departments
Authors: Dawson Luke P. , Ball Jocasta , Wilson Andrew , Emerson Lance , Voskoboinik Aleksandr , Nehme Ziad , Horrigan Mark , Kaye David , Stub Dion
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Understanding the impact of environmental exposures on disease incidence is important for environmental guidelines, health services management, and advising patients. We aimed to assess the relationship between daily mean temperature and common pollutants with atrial fibrillation (AF) presentations to emergency departments (EDs).

Methods

The study included consecutive adult patients presenting with AF to EDs from 1/1/2014 to 31/12/2020 with linkage to hospital and emergency discharge diagnosis data. A time series quasi‐Poisson regression with a distributed lag nonlinear model was fitted to assess the association between AF with mean air temperature and five common pollutants, overall and according to sex and region, with adjustment for season, day of the week, long‐term trend, and co‐pollutants.

Results

In 82 575 AF presentations to EDs during the study period, mean (standard deviations [SD]) (SD) age was 69.6 (SD 14.7) years and 50.7% were female. AF presentations were associated with elevated levels of Particulate Matter (PM) 2.5 (≥57.7 µg/m3) and nitrous dioxide (NO2) (≥16.5 parts per billion), but not mean air temperature or other pollutants (carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide, or ozone). The attributable fraction of AF presentations relating to above optimal NO2 and PM 2.5 levels was 7.24% and 3.81% resulting in 854 and 450 annual excess AF presentations, respectively.

Conclusions

High levels of NO2 and PM 2.5 are associated with increased risk of AF presentations to EDs. These findings have important implications for environmental policies and advice to patients susceptible to AF presentations to EDs, especially in regions with higher baseline levels of PM 2.5 or NO2.
Device dislodgement and embolization associated with a new leadless pacemaker
Authors: Bahbah Ali , Sengupta Jay , Witt Dawn , Zishiri Edwin , Abdelhadi Raed , Zakaib John , Hauser Robert
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Currently, there are two approved single chamber leadless pacemakers (LP) in the United States (US), Micra VR™; approved since 2016 and AVEIR VR™; approved in 2022. A potential complication of LPs is dislodgement and/or embolization (D/E) during or after implant. According to the IDE trials, there appears to be a significant difference in D/E rates between the two LPs that have different fixation mechanisms; Micra uses nitinol tines, while AVEIR uses an active screw helix. The aim of this study was to determine if the AVEIR VR LP has continued to exhibit D/E in the United States since it was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in April 2022.

Methods

The FDA Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database was searched for US D/E reports communicated by the manufacturers of both LP devices. For AVEIR VR we reviewed reports from approval till December 2023, and for Micra VR we looked at reports from approval to April 2024. Excluded were reports based on information indirectly obtained from registries, journals, social media, or volunteers. Total number of US implants was acquired from the manufacturers' product performance reports.

Results

During a period of 21 months, 5990 AVEIR VR implants had been registered in the United States, of which 53 (0.88%) encountered D/E both during and after the procedure. More D/E (32; 60.4%) occurred during the implantation procedure, with device release problems being the most prominent procedural issue involved with these events. Within a 8‐year period, 72 237 Micra VR implants have been registered in the United States, of which 211 (0.29%) showed D/E. The rate of D/E since the US approval of both devices was significantly higher for AVEIR VR compared to Micra VR (0.88% vs 0.29%; p < .0001).

Conclusion

AVEIR VR implants may be complicated by dislodgement with or without embolization. Currently, the estimated incidence is about 0.9%, which is significantly higher than Micra VR. Fixation issues and separation problems of the device from the delivery catheter appear to be responsible for most of these D/E events.
The benefits and accuracy of real‐time continuous glucose monitoring in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes attending a summer camp
Authors: Kondo Tatsuya , Senokuchi Takafumi , Morinaga Jun , Miyashita Azusa , Yano Mayumi , Takeda Haruo , Nishida Kenro , Kubota Naoto
Published: October 2024

Aims/Introduction

This study evaluated the usability, satisfaction, and accuracy of a real‐time continuous glucose monitoring (rt‐CGM) in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D) attending a summer camp.

Materials and Methods

Seven children and adolescents with T1D (camper) and 31 of healthcare providers (HCPs) participating in a 2‐day summer camp in Kumamoto, Japan were enrolled. The usability and satisfaction were evaluated by tailored questionnaire. The accuracy of rt‐CGM was evaluated using self‐monitoring of blood glucose (BG) and sensor glucose (SG) values before or after (off camp) and during (on camp) the camp.

Results

The score of the usefulness of rt‐CGM showed 3.29 ± 0.90 in campers and 4.23 ± 0.87 in HCPs (P = 0.017). The degree of recommendation score for rt‐CGM was 3.29 ± 1.11 in campers and 4.23 ± 0.79 in HCPs (P = 0.013). Time in range (TIR) off camp was 45.9% and that on camp was 57.0%. Time above range (TAR) off camp was 53.4% and that on camp was 42.4%. The mean absolute relative difference (MARD) off camp was 19.7% ± 25.2%, whereas that on camp was 16.0% ± 14.8% (P = 0.367). Clinically acceptable zones of the error grid analyses were approximately 96% in total.

Conclusions

Rt‐CGM exhibited higher usability and recommendation scores in HCPs than those in campers. This may be related to relatively lower accuracy in rt‐CGM. Overall usability and recommendation are clinically satisfactory, but due to relatively low accuracy, no decision should be made based on a single, non‐verified SG value alone.
Retrospective database study on risk factors for diabetic retinopathy and diabetic kidney disease in Japanese patients with diabetes mellitus
Authors: Yamada Kota , Ohsugi Mitsuru , Ito Yuichiro , Uchida Hiroki , Lee Takumi , Ueki Kohjiro
Published: October 2024

Aims/Introduction

This study aimed to investigate the risk factors for diabetic retinopathy (DR) and diabetic kidney disease (DKD) in Japanese patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). Identifying these factors could provide insights into the shared and distinct mechanisms contributing to these complications in the diabetic population.

Materials and Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis using the J‐DREAMS (Japan Diabetes compREhensive database project based on an Advanced electronic Medical record System) database, which is directly linked to electronic medical records. The study included Japanese people aged 18 years and older with diabetes, who were registered at a referral center between December 1, 2015, and March 31, 2021, and had simultaneous measurements of serum creatinine and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c). The presence or absence of DR and DKD was determined for 8,794 and 8,770 patients, respectively. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify risk factors, considering patient characteristics, comorbid conditions, and laboratory data as explanatory variables.

Results

Common risk factors for both DR and DKD included hypertension, anemia, diabetic neuropathy, cerebrovascular disease, chronic heart failure, low serum albumin levels, and elevated HbA1c. The contributions of age, duration of DM, and body mass index (BMI) differed between the DR and DKD groups.

Conclusions

In addition to poor glycemic control and hypertension, anemia, low serum albumin, cerebrovascular disease, and heart failure were identified as independent common risk factors for DR and DKD, suggesting the existence of cardio‐renal anemia syndrome in patients with DM.
Implementation of bedside handover that includes patients or carers in hospital settings: A systematic review
Authors: Maher Amy , Hsu Henry , Ebrahim Mohamed Eftal Bin Mohamed , Vukasovic Matthew , Coggins Andrew
Published: October 2024

Objective

Increasing complexity in healthcare systems necessitates effective handover. While a universal structure is often recommended, many frameworks do not include the patient. A systematic review was completed examining outcomes following handover that included patients or carers using a realist‐orientated paradigm.

Methods

The research group used Covidence™ software and followed PRISMA guidelines. A librarian‐led search of Embase, Medline, PsycINFO and SCOPUS yielded 5,790 relevant studies for screening. Included studies reported on peer‐reviewed studies that assessed qualitative or quantitative outcomes resulting from patient‐centred handover. To assess quality, we used the McMaster Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). Patient‐orientated and quantitative outcomes are reported descriptively. For qualitative outcomes, we employed a deductive analytical approach. Braun and Clarke's steps were followed to develop themes with group work used to clarify and discuss the various codes. Heterogenous reporting precluded meta‐analysis.

Results

Thirty studies were eligible (10 mixed methods; 11 quantitative; 9 qualitative) with variable quality and scope. Most studies related to nursing‐led bedside handover and originated in Anglophone countries. Positive effects were reported for patient satisfaction, engagement, autonomy and effective information exchange. Providers reported a positive experience but also barriers to implementation, cognitive load and reducing compliance over time. There were contradicting findings for patient‐orientated outcomes including falls risk. Publication bias may have led to under reporting of negative trials. There was limited reporting on physician‐led handovers that included patients.

Conclusions

Patient‐centred handover was associated with self‐reported benefits for patients and providers but potential advantages over conventional handover could be undermined by barriers such as time, implementation challenges and a perceived increase in staff workload.
The Effect of Preformed Anatomic Provisional Restorations on Peri‐Implant Mucosal Dimensions with Immediate Tooth Replacement Therapy
Authors: Saito Hanae , Song Seung Jun , Rubin Jamie , Tarnow Dennis P. , Chu Stephen J.
Published: October 2024

Objective

Immediate Tooth Replacement Therapy (ITRT) has become popular due to its ability to reduce treatment time and provide immediate esthetic results. However, long‐term challenges, such as mid‐facial recession and labial bone resorption, have been reported. Anatomic temporary cylinders (ATC), which allow for efficient fabrication of provisional transitional restorations in the esthetic zone, were designed to mimic the natural emergence profile and guide mucosal tissue healing. This study examines the effect of ATCs on the fabrication of provisional restorations compared to conventional non‐anatomic temporary cylinders (CTCs) in terms of peri‐implant mucosal preservation and stability in patients undergoing ITRT using the dual‐zone grafting technique.

Materials and Methods

Parameters evaluated were peri‐implant mucosal tissue thickness (PIMTT), Pink Esthetic Score (PES), and radiographic outcomes, including labial plate dimension (LPD).

Results

The use of ATCs resulted in a statistically significant increase in PIMTT compared to CTCs, suggesting better preservation of peri‐implant mucosal architecture. Additionally, the ATC group exhibited a positive change in LPD, although this difference was not clinically significant.

Conclusions

The findings indicate that ATCs may offer advantages in maintaining peri‐implant mucosal stability, contributing to the esthetic and functional outcomes of implant‐supported restorations. Further long‐term studies are needed to validate these preliminary results.

Clinical Significance

The use of anatomic temporary cylinders (ATC) in immediate tooth replacement therapy (ITRT) demonstrated improved peri‐implant mucosal tissue thickness, suggesting enhanced maintenance of peri‐implant mucosal architecture. This can contribute to healthier and more esthetic outcomes while potentially reducing the risk of complications such as mid‐facial recession.
Optimizing Resin Infiltration Procedure in Molar Incisor Hypomineralization Lesions
Authors: Torres Carlos Rocha Gomes , Pereira Talita Portela , Effenberger Susanne , Borges Alessandra Bühler
Published: October 2024

Objective

This article aims to describe a new technique for predicting the results of resin infiltration procedure in molar incisor hypomineralization lesions, named Infiltration Monitoring by Transillumination. The technique involves the use of transillumination together with ethanol application during the steps of lesion body opening and resin penetration. It provides color contrast that enhances the removal of the less porous surface layer and controls the effectiveness of resin infiltration within the lesion.

Clinical Considerations

The clinical procedure presented illustrates the steps involved in the resin infiltration procedure for color masking of molar incisor hypomineralization lesions in anterior teeth, highlighting the use of transillumination both for monitoring the lesion body opening step and the resin infiltration process.

Conclusions

The monitoring with transillumination during the ethanol test can assist the removal of the enamel external layer over the lesion, necessary to expose the inner porosity to be infiltrated, in a very precise and conservative way. In addition, it can effectively help to determine the moment when the infiltrant resin has fully penetrated the lesion.

Clinical Significance

The Infiltration Monitoring by Transillumination technique offers the possibility to precisely control the infiltration procedure in molar incisor hypomineralization lesions, thereby improving the predictability of the esthetic outcome.
Development and inequality: A long‐run view
Authors: Gallardo‐Albarrán Daniel , Moatsos Michail
Published: October 2024

We provide a comprehensive review of the literature on the drivers of long‐run development and inequality, and new datasets for their study. Three distinct elements emerge in the 10 articles of this special issue that broadly characterize the field. First, development should be understood from a multidimensional perspective and when considering long‐run patterns a wide array of indicators must be used, ranging from material living standards to health, education, and gender. Second, the construction of widely used development metrics has to be critically reviewed to arrive at more accurate narratives of how the world developed. Third, the drivers of development and global inequalities are best analyzed and understood from a long‐term perspective. Some sweeping trends with major consequences for countries and regions alike took many years to unfold, such as the emergence of the modern state, or the implementation of large‐scale education reforms. In sum, this special issue shows that global inequalities are the result of long‐term persistent forces that have operated through periods of decades (and centuries), involving institutional change, demographic processes, and cultural persistence (among others). A better understanding of patterns and explanatory factors of development over the long term is key to tackle current‐day challenges for development and inequality.
The AOFOG recommendations on human papillomavirus vaccination in the Asia‐Pacific region
Authors: Tse Ka Yu , Tan Ai Ling , Subedi Kirtipal , Pervin Shahana , Gupta Krishnendu , Tjokroprawiro Brahmana Askandar , Woo Yin Ling , Wilailak Sarikapan , Ochiai Kazunori , Lumbiganon Pisake , Padolina Christia
Published: October 2024

Cervical cancer remains a disease burden in Asia. The Asia and Oceania Federation of Obstetrics and Gynecology envisages a need to produce a set of recommendations on the implementation of human papilloma virus vaccination program for both lower‐middle‐income countries (LMICs) and high‐income countries (HICs), with an attempt to harmonize the practices yet allow flexibility to cater for different cultures, religions, needs and background of individual countries/cities. International guidelines and literature were sought, and recommendations were made in seven selected areas, including (i) the target groups for vaccination, (ii) the doses of vaccination including the use of single‐dose vaccination, (iii) the types of vaccines, (iv) suggestions for special populations including those with previous HPV infection, human immunodeficiency virus carriers, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning/queer group, (v) inter‐changeability and the need of revaccination/booster, (vi) novel technologies and vaccines, and (vii) public education.
Trends of minimally invasive surgery in the primary treatment of cervical cancer
Authors: Baba Tsukasa
Published: October 2024

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS), including laparoscopic and robot‐assisted procedures, has rapidly advanced in the treatment of gynecologic malignancies worldwide. However, its adoption and insurance coverage in AOFOG countries remain limited, particularly for advanced uterine and ovarian cancers. This limitation poses a challenge to the widespread use of MIS, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive evaluation of its role and the skills required by gynecologic oncologists to ensure safe and effective treatment. Furthermore, the Laparoscopic Approach to Cervical Cancer trial significantly impacted perceptions of MIS, revealing higher recurrence rates and inferior overall survival for minimally invasive radical hysterectomy (MIS‐RH) compared to abdominal radical hysterectomy. Subsequent studies confirmed these findings, raising questions about the suitability of MIS‐RH, particularly in centers with limited experience. Key issues affecting MIS outcomes include surgical expertise and tumor spillage prevention. As the landscape of cervical cancer treatment evolves, the integration of radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immune therapies has challenged the traditional reliance on surgical monotherapy. There also exists ongoing debate over the optimal use of MIS in primary treatment and salvage surgery for cervical cancer to refine MIS techniques and explore their role in preserving fertility and managing residual disease post‐chemoradiotherapy. For ensuring MIS as a viable treatment option, it is continuously necessary accumulating real‐world data and reassessing surgical strategies to balance efficacy, safety, and patient preferences.
Lingering shadows of childhood corporal punishment: Family trajectories across decades
Authors: Luo Mengsha
Published: October 2024

Objective

Corporal punishment is the most common form of violence against children worldwide. This study adopts a life course perspective to examine associations between childhood corporal punishment and distinct multi‐decade family trajectories from young adulthood to middle adulthood in China. Specifically, it examines how childhood parental punishment shapes later family life course trajectory patterns, incorporating partnership, marriage, and fertility outcomes, and considers different sources of punishment (maternal and paternal) and potential gender differences (sons and daughters).

Background

Accumulating evidence reveals that corporal punishment is not only unnecessary as a disciplinary technique but also harmful to children. This evidence has led to a worldwide movement to eliminate any non‐accidental use of physical force against children. However, previous research often assesses isolated family outcomes without considering family development as a dynamic and interconnected process, resulting in an ambiguous understanding of childhood corporal punishment's long‐reaching influence on unfolding family pathways.

Results

Results uncovered both stability and diversity in Chinese family trajectories, with the majority following stable marital norms. Experiencing childhood corporal punishment increased the odds of an early unstable trajectory characterized by divorce and remarriage. Moreover, the implications of childhood paternal punishment appeared more wide‐ranging than maternal punishment in terms of sorting into normative versus atypical family trajectory patterns. Childhood maltreatment also overrides influences of child gender, similarly impacting future family trajectories across genders.

Conclusion

This research highlights the profoundly disruptive effects of corporal punishment on family development throughout the lifespan, carrying important implications for fostering healthier and more resilient families.
Changes in soil organic carbon stocks and mineralization following the replacement of secondary evergreen broadleaf forests with tea (Camellia sinensis L.) plantations
Authors: Zhang Shaobo , Lv Junyan , Li Yongfu , Zhang Lan , Hu Qiang , Li Zhenzheng , Yang Xing , Li Jiao , Wu Tieniu , Mao Yihu , Zhang Liping , Han Wenyan , Yan Peng , Li Xin
Published: October 2024

Tea plantation ecosystems have a strong potential to sequester carbon (C) and reduce CO2 emissions. However, the effects of different tea planting periods on soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks and mineralization and related mechanisms are unclear. To address this knowledge gap, we investigated the effects of replacing evergreen broadleaf forests with tea plantations on SOC stocks and mineralization rates by examining alterations in SOC pools and composition, microbial community composition, functional genes related to C‐cycling and enzyme activities. The SOC content in forest, 30‐, 50‐ and 100‐year‐old tea plantations were 1.91%, 2.37%, 2.87% and 3.69%, respectively, in the 0–20 cm soil depth (100‐year‐old > 50‐year‐old > 30‐year‐old > forest). Cumulative CO2–C emissions increased by 38.1% (114 mg C kg−1 soil), 49.9% (157 mg C kg−1 soil), and 100.2% (171 mg C kg−1 soil) compared to forest soil (228 mg C kg−1 soil) after tea had been grown for 30, 50 and 100 years, respectively; however, cumulative CO2 emissions did not differ significantly between the 30‐ and 50‐year‐old plantations. The rate of SOC mineralization was positively related to particulate organic carbon (POC), water‐soluble organic carbon (WSOC), microbial biomass C (MBC), and O‐alkyl C contents, as well as β‐glucosidase/cellobiohydrolase activities and GH48/cbhI abundance; by contrast, the SOC mineralization rate was negatively correlated with the aromatic C content. More importantly, bacteria and fungi related to SOC mineralization, such as WPS‐2 and Acidobacteria, and Sordariomycetes, Tremellomycetes, Mortierellomycetes and Agaricomycetes, respectively, had high relative abundances. Our results indicate that replacing forests with tea plantations enhanced both SOC stocks and mineralization rates and that this effect was positively correlated with tea cultivation time. We reveal that an increased length of the tea planting period was conducive to increasing SOC stocks, and mitigating C losses in tea plantation soils is crucial for establishing an ecologically low‐C tea plantation system.
Macroeconomic Impact of Oil Shocks: A Large-Scale Bayesian SVAR Approach in South Korea
Authors: Arsalane Salima , Kim Young Min
Published: October 2024

This study employs a Large-Scale Bayesian Vector Autoregression (LS-BVAR) model to examine the impact of oil price shocks on South Korea's economy using monthly data spanning from January 2001 to September 2023. The analysis includes key macroeconomic variables such as industrial production, inflation, interest rates, money supply, exchange rates, imports, exports, and foreign direct investment (FDI) abroad. Our findings indicate that while oil supply shocks have limited effects on these variables, both oil aggregate demand shocks and oil-specific demand shocks significantly impact the Korean economy. The study's findings highlight the importance of leveraging global demand that could potentially boost the economic growth of the country.
Daily Engine Performance Trending Using Common Flight Regime Identification
Authors: Mallamo Declan P. , Azarian Michael H. , Pecht Michael G.
Published: October 2024

Accurate flight regime identification is critical for enhancing aircraft efficiency and safety. Traditionally, predictive models for aircraft operation have relied on complex, black-box machine learning techniques that lack transparency. This study introduces a more interpretable approach by leveraging the New Comprehensive Modular Aero-Propulsion System Simulation (N-CMAPSS) dataset and combining expanding window classification, voting schemes, and spectral clustering to detect distinct flight regimes. The method applies elastic registration to align time-shifted patterns and functional principal component analysis (FPCA) to reduce dimensionality, capturing core dynamics across flight regimes. These transformed features are fed into a genetic algorithm (GA)-assisted orthogonal matching pursuit (OMP) for sparse feature selection. Through evolutionary selection, crossover, and mutation, the most informative features are identified, enabling accurate predictions while maintaining transparency. This method outperforms more complex models in certain test cases, offering a balance between accuracy and interpretability that is essential for predictive maintenance and safety applications.