bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antecedents of entrepreneurial intention in an international business environment: a gender comparison
Authors: González-Ramos M. Isabel , Guadamillas Fátima , Ortiz Beatriz , Donate Mario J.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to analyse the influence of contextual factors, such as educational, relational and structural support, on psychological dimensions of entrepreneurship – self-confidence and risk-taking propensity – , and their impact on Entrepreneurial Intention (EI). Further, a gender comparison is conducted on an international sample and analyses the moderating effect of family antecedents (an entrepreneurial parent) on the relationship between relational support and self-confidence and risk-taking propensity.

Design/methodology/approach

We test the research hypotheses using a validated questionnaire in an international context through a survey submitted to 406 professionals from Spain, China and Latin-American countries, who had received entrepreneurial education and completed their studies at least two years beforehand.

Findings

The results show significant gender differences in self-confidence and risk-taking propensity, particularly when the antecedents are educational and structural support to start a business, and we also find differences when we consider an entrepreneurial family member (father, mother) as a moderator in the relationship between relational support and self-confidence, and risk-taking propensity.

Practical implications

The findings shed new light on the overall picture regarding factors contributing to EI and provide valuable implications for the design of entrepreneurship education measures and policies to promote entrepreneurship in a global context.

Originality/value

As a novelty, this paper considers an international sample of professionals, including personal and psychological aspects as potential determinants of EI (in addition to traditional contextual factors), and also an analysis of the effects of entrepreneurial family members on the relational aspects of entrepreneurship that can affect psychological aspects of potential entrepreneurs. It also includes a gender comparison for the hypothesized model.
Multi-family offices: investment management under a behavioral approach
Authors: Fortunato Graziela , Bergallo Alexia , Bastos Sérgio Augusto Pereira , Brandão Luiz Eduardo
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study presents a policy template for managing investment portfolios for the multi-family office (MFO) business that incorporates elements of behavioral finance to outline how managers and clients are subject to heuristics and cognitive biases, even in a specific and differentiated environment. The policy for proper portfolio management is grounded in interactivity, dynamism, quality of communication and the relationship between the manager and the client.

Design/methodology/approach

This study presents a policy framework for managing investment portfolios within the MFO sector that integrates behavioral finance principles to highlight how managers and clients are influenced by heuristics and cognitive biases, even in a particular and differentiated environment. This perspective is a defining feature of the study’s originality.

Findings

This approach foreshadows the manager as an educator, presents practical recommendations about behavior and improves the process of decision-making and knowledge regarding their clients’ motivations. That will make managers better at serving and educating them, promoting long-term sustainability.

Originality/value

This study presents a policy template for managing investment portfolios for the MFO business that incorporates elements of behavioral finance to outline how managers and clients are subject to heuristics and cognitive biases, even in a specific and differentiated environment. These elements make this article original.
A review on the germaneness of libraries in sustaining information technology services: rethinking towards futuristic strategies implementation
Authors: Odularu Oluwayemi IbukunOluwa
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This review paper examines the germaneness of libraries in sustaining information technology services, rethinking towards implementing futuristic strategies and the significant sustainability factors related to information technology (IT) services, identifying gaps in the existing studies and suggesting future areas of research work.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted a systematic literature review (SLR), in which 81 articles were identified and utilised for the paper. The inclusion and exclusion research design was used for the study.

Findings

The role of libraries in sustaining information technology services is increasingly crucial as they evolve into dynamic IT hubs, addressing the growing digital needs of users. This transformation involves integrating advanced technologies like cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT) and machine learning to enhance access and usability of information. Libraries support academic research and education by offering extensive digital archives and research databases, thereby fostering innovation and learning. They also play a vital role in community engagement by providing digital literacy programs and IT training, thus bridging the digital divide. Embracing sustainable IT practices and adapting to technological advancements ensure that libraries remain relevant and effective. However, these initiatives require significant investment in infrastructure and continuous staff training. The results highlight the complexity of maintaining sustainable library IT services and support an active, cooperative, and user-centred strategy.

Research limitations/implications

Despite the importance of libraries in providing IT services, there is a lack of research on the germaneness of libraries in sustaining IT services (DSpace, 2022). The number of research publications on these topics has grown since the late 1990s and is increasing. However, contrary to the vast number of research publications, there are few literature reviews on libraries’ sustainability and information technology. Moreover, little is known about the germaneness of libraries in sustaining IT services.

Originality/value

Libraries’ roles in sustaining IT services and implementing futuristic strategies underscore their evolving importance in contemporary society. Libraries are not just centres of learning but are integral to community development, technological advancement and social inclusion. Rethinking and innovating their approach to IT services, libraries continue to serve as vital hubs of development and engagement, significantly benefiting communities worldwide. Furthermore, by addressing a significant research issue, creating creative solutions, stressing teamwork and supporting an all-encompassing strategy for maintaining library IT services. It is a stimulant for more study and cooperative initiatives to achieve sustainable library and information science development.
To be or not to be included in the S&P 500: cost of debt implications
Authors: Faulkner Matthew , Frost Tracie , Ivanov Stoyu I.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

We examine the changes in a firm’s cost of debt after it is included in or removed from the S&P 500. The extant literature on index composition focuses on the cost of equity and lacks an understanding of the impacts on a firm’s cost of debt capital upon inclusion in or removal from a major stock market index. Therefore, we address the following question: Does a firm’s cost of debt change around its inclusion in or removal from the S&P 500?

Design/methodology/approach

We develop two hypotheses based on the research question and use univariate and multivariate fixed-effects analyses to test them. Furthermore, to ensure robustness and address endogeneity concerns, we employ a matched control sample difference-in-difference statistical framework.

Findings

Inclusion in the S&P 500 lowers a firm’s cost of debt by 0.145% and 0.200%, on average, in the six- and three-month periods after inclusion. Furthermore, after a firm is removed from the index, a firm’s cost of debt increases on average 0.380% and 0.260% in the six- and three-month periods in the post-inclusion period when compared to the pre-inclusion period.

Originality/value

This study contributes novel insights into the cost of debt and index composition literature. It provides insights for academics, investors, creditors, corporate managers and index selection committees.
The role of education for alleviating poverty incidence in Egypt: urban-rural analysis
Authors: Abdelsalam Mamdouh Abdelmoula M.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study explores the relevance of education in reducing poverty in Egypt's rural and urban areas.

Design/methodology/approach

The study applies the logistic model to Analyse Household Income Expenditure survey data.

Findings

The results indicate that spending on education in urban regions is higher than in rural areas. Second, the percentage of illiteracy in rural areas is higher than in urban areas. Third, educational spending is significantly inversely related to poverty across various geographical regions of Egypt. Fourthly, the more educated the head of the family is, the less likely the family is to fall into poverty. Finally, the potential for education to alleviate poverty in rural areas is more significant than in urban regions of Egypt.

Research limitations/implications

The suggested approach should be applied on data from different countries.

Practical implications

The paper suggests worthy policy recommendations for policy makers in Egypt.

Social implications

Results of the study worthy as it emphases the role of education in the society.

Originality/value

Based on microdata analysis, the study compares the potential role of education in combating poverty in Egypt's urban and rural areas. Thus, it can be used as a decision-support tool for policymakers.
Critically reflecting on and through creative practice in doctoral education: a collaborative autoethnography of journey mapping
Authors: Kipp Amy , Currie Reinders Kathryn , Buchnea Amanda , Duran Rosa , Bishop Allison , Hawkins Roberta , Heidebrecht Dave , Kakar Nealob , Thomson Lyndsey , Tremblay Naty
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to present journey mapping as a creative practice that can be used to “do doctoral education differently”, specifically, in a way that supports the wellbeing of doctoral students and centres students often excluded in post-secondary planning and program development. It understands journey mapping through the lens of feminist care ethics, critical and decolonizing disability studies, theories of Indigenous relationality, systems thinking, and action-oriented approaches.

Design/methodology/approach

Using collaborative autoethnography, it critically analyses authors’ experiences of a journey mapping process initiated by students in a new interdisciplinary doctoral program in Ontario, Canada. For this study, the authors invited all students currently enrolled in the program and the Program Director to share their reflections on their experiences with journey mapping as a creative practice. They then conducted collaborative data analysis, working together to identify common themes, experiences and tensions which arose throughout the journey mapping process.

Findings

The study analysis positions journey mapping as a creative practice of collective memory, which can facilitate connection, healing and change. It suggests that this practice can be used to resist problematic ideals of individualism, and competition within academia, by offering a process through which graduate students can build community, advocate for programmatic changes, and move towards individual and collective wellbeing.

Originality/value

Drawing on the lived experiences in an interdisciplinary doctoral program, this paper brings together work that explores student experience and creative practice in graduate education with the practice of journey mapping, to highlight the possibilities and tensions of using this approach. In the changing landscape of doctoral education, practices that centre students’ voices and support student wellbeing must be developed, and the resources needed to support such practices better understood.
Disclaimer dynamics in mutual fund: prospect theory and investment experience perspective
Authors: Dam Leena B. , Kulkarni Medha
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Prospect theory suggests that investors’ investment choices are influenced by expected outcomes as well as subjective sensitivities of losses and gains. Statutory disclaimers of mutual funds refer to how asset management companies (AMCs) communicate important legal information to investors. This study explored how prospect theory mediates the relationship between statutory disclaimers and investors’ decisions, with a focus on how investors’ experience in the field might influence this dynamic. This study aims to examine whether investor experience could moderate the relationship between familiarity with prospect theory and investment choices.

Design/methodology/approach

This study involved 268 participants. Data were analyzed using PLS-SEM.

Findings

The findings indicate that simply being familiar with prospect theory does not significantly affect investment decisions when statutory disclaimers are involved. However, investment experience plays a critical role in how investors apply prospect theory in their decision-making. This suggests that seasoned investors might use prospect theory in a different way compared to less experienced investors when considering investment decisions influenced by statutory disclaimers. AMCs may design creative disclaimers for investors according to their level of receptivity.

Originality/value

Combination of prospect theory and investment experience offers a fresh perspective, highlighting the complex interactions between regulatory factors and investor behavior.
Using natural language processing to identify emergency department patients with incidental lung nodules requiring follow‐up
Authors: Moore Christopher L. , Socrates Vimig , Hesami Mina , Denkewicz Ryan P. , Cavallo Joe J. , Venkatesh Arjun K. , Taylor R. Andrew
Published: January 2025

Objectives

For emergency department (ED) patients, lung cancer may be detected early through incidental lung nodules (ILNs) discovered on chest CTs. However, there are significant errors in the communication and follow‐up of incidental findings on ED imaging, particularly due to unstructured radiology reports. Natural language processing (NLP) can aid in identifying ILNs requiring follow‐up, potentially reducing errors from missed follow‐up. We sought to develop an open‐access, three‐step NLP pipeline specifically for this purpose.

Methods

This retrospective used a cohort of 26,545 chest CTs performed in three EDs from 2014 to 2021. Randomly selected chest CT reports were annotated by MD raters using Prodigy software to develop a stepwise NLP “pipeline” that first excluded prior or known malignancy, determined the presence of a lung nodule, and then categorized any recommended follow‐up. NLP was developed using a RoBERTa large language model on the SpaCy platform and deployed as open‐access software using Docker. After NLP development it was applied to 1000 CT reports that were manually reviewed to determine accuracy using accepted NLP metrics of precision (positive predictive value), recall (sensitivity), and F1 score (which balances precision and recall).

Results

Precision, recall, and F1 score were 0.85, 0.71, and 0.77, respectively, for malignancy; 0.87, 0.83, and 0.85 for nodule; and 0.82, 0.90, and 0.85 for follow‐up. Overall accuracy for follow‐up in the absence of malignancy with a nodule present was 93.3%. The overall recommended follow‐up rate was 12.4%, with 10.1% of patients having evidence of known or prior malignancy.

Conclusions

We developed an accurate, open‐access pipeline to identify ILNs with recommended follow‐up on ED chest CTs. While the prevalence of recommended follow‐up is lower than some prior studies, it more accurately reflects the prevalence of truly incidental findings without prior or known malignancy. Incorporating this tool could reduce errors by improving the identification, communication, and tracking of ILNs.
Suicidal thoughts and behaviors among gender‐minority adolescents in the emergency department
Authors: Mesznik Kara , King Cheryl A. , Horwitz Adam , Webb Michael , Barney Bradley J. , Hoffmann Jennifer A. , Brent David , Grupp‐Phelan Jacqueline , Chernick Lauren S.
Published: January 2025

Objective

Gender‐minority youth, whose gender identity differs from their sex assigned at birth, have elevated suicide risk compared to cisgender youth, yet few studies examine their suicide risk in the emergency department (ED). Our objectives were to determine the prevalence of and assess risk and protective factors associated with prior suicide attempt (SA) and recent suicide ideation (SI) among gender‐minority adolescents in the ED.

Methods

We conducted a secondary analysis of gender‐minority adolescents in the Emergency Department Screening for Teens at Risk for Suicide (ED‐STARS) multicenter, random‐series prospective cohort study. Prior SA and recent SI were based on the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale and Ask Suicide‐Screening Questions, respectively. We conducted Firth's logistic regressions to assess risk and protective factors associated with prior SA and recent SI.

Results

Of 6641 adolescent participants in ED‐STARS, 280 (4.2%) identified as gender minority. Of the gender minorities, 72% presented with a nonpsychiatric complaint, 37% admitted to a prior SA, and 25% reported recent SI. Prior SA was associated with the number of self‐harm methods in the prior 12 months (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.5, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.3–1.9), sexual minority (aOR 5.0, 95% CI 2.5–10.6), and mother's history of prior SA (aOR 3.6, 95% CI 1.5–9.2). Recent SI was associated with hopelessness (aOR 4.2, 95% CI 1.5–13.9), lower positive affect (aOR 0.9, 95% CI 0.8–1.0), sexual minority (aOR 8.3, 95% CI 2.5–37.8), five or more self‐harm events in the prior 12 months (aOR 4.9, 95% CI 2.1–11.6), and number of illicit drug classes (aOR 1.9, 95% CI 1.2–3.2).

Conclusions

Among gender‐minority ED adolescent patients, one in three experienced a SA prior to the ED visit. One in four endorsed SI within 2 weeks of the ED visit. The identified risk and protective factors among gender‐minority adolescents may inform future ED‐based efforts to detect and reduce suicide risk.
Emergency department utilization by youth before and after firearm injury
Authors: Kemal Samaa , Cash Rebecca E. , Michelson Kenneth A. , Alpern Elizabeth R. , Samuels‐Kalow Margaret
Published: January 2025

Background

Emergency department (ED) visits may serve as opportunities for firearm injury prevention and intervention efforts. Our objective was to determine ED utilization by youth before and after firearm injury.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study of ED encounters by youth (0–18 years old) with firearm injury from eight states using the 2019 State ED and Inpatient Databases. Our primary outcome was an ED encounter (1) 90 days before or (2) 90 days after index injury. We used generalized estimating equations, accounting for hospital clustering, to determine associations between ED utilization and ED type (pediatric vs. general), youth age, sex, race and ethnicity, urbanicity, and insurance status.

Results

We identified 1035 ED encounters for firearm injury (median [IQR] age 17 (15–18) years, 85.3% male, 63.3% non‐Hispanic Black, 68.6% publicly insured, 90.5% living in a metropolitan area, 52.8% general ED). In the 90 days before an index injury, 12.8% of youth had an ED encounter; of these, 68.2% occurred in general EDs, and 18.2% were for trauma. In the 90 days after an index injury, 22.1% of youth had an ED encounter; of these, 50.0% occurred in general EDs, and 22.6% were for trauma. We found no significant association between ED type and ED utilization patterns. Few youths changed ED type across longitudinal encounters.

Conclusions

Youth have high rates of ED utilization before and after firearm injury. Half of firearm‐injured youth receive their emergency care exclusively in general EDs. Implementing firearm injury prevention and intervention efforts in all ED settings is critical.
A 37‐Year Retrospective Analysis Reveals a High Rate of Cutaneous Angiosarcoma of the Scalp in Okinawa, Japan
Authors: Ohira Aoi , Utsumi Daisuke , Awazawa Ryoko , Yagi Nobutake , Awazawa Tsuyoshi , Yamaguchi Sayaka , Yanagi Teruki , Takahashi Kenzo
Published: January 2025

Angiosarcoma (AS) is a rare, aggressive malignancy originating from vascular or lymphatic endothelial cells. Despite its severity, little is known about its epidemiology, and no geographical regions have previously been identified as having an exceptionally high incidence. We retrospectively analyzed medical records spanning 37 years (1987–2023) in Okinawa, Japan, identifying 135 cases of AS that were used to calculate its incidence. This incidence was compared to global data to highlight significant regional differences. Factors related to patients' survival were also assessed. The age‐adjusted incidence of AS of the scalp in Okinawa was 4.1 per million per year (mpy; 2015 Japanese model population) or 2.0 per mpy (2000 US standard population), significantly higher than the global data, including in the United States (about eightfold higher) and mainland Japan (about fourfold higher). The estimated five‐year survival for patients with AS of the scalp in Okinawa was 9.2%. Multivariate analysis identified surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy as significant factors associated with patient survival. This study provides the first evidence of a significantly higher incidence rate of AS of the scalp in Okinawa. Given its rarity, further research is crucial to uncover the epidemiological, genetic, and environmental factors driving this cancer.
A roadmap to sustainable management of commercial medicinal and aromatic plants, fungi, and lichens in Nepal
Authors: Smith‐Hall Carsten , Pyakurel Dipesh , Treue Thorsten , Pouliot Mariève , Ghimire Suresh , Timoshyna Anastasiya , Meilby Henrik
Published: January 2025

Thousands of plants, fungi, and lichen species are traded every year. Although sustainable use is critical for livelihoods and biodiversity conservation, insufficient data prevent detailed sustainability assessments for most species. How can the sustainability of trade in such data‐deficient species be enhanced? We considered a country‐level example of 300 medicinal and aromatic plant, fungus, and lichen species traded in tens of thousands of tons worth tens of millions of US dollars in and from Nepal annually. Past interventions have not ensured sustainable trade, leaving species vulnerable to commercial harvesting and threatening rural household incomes, the processing industry, and government revenues. Building on documented evidence and stakeholder involvement, we used a theory of change approach to develop a sustainable management approach. We produced a draft plan (roadmap) by combining interventions proposed at annual key stakeholder dialogue meetings with recommendations extracted from a literature review on the trade and conservation of commercial medicinal and aromatic plants, fungi, and lichens in Nepal. The draft roadmap was discussed at a national workshop with sector‐wide stakeholder representation to derive the final roadmap. The literature review showed the 41 causal assumptions and theoretical explanations for actions and outcomes. Feedback mechanisms included 6 bundles of mutually reinforcing actions, such as the relationship between increased cultivation and decreased wild harvesting. The roadmap has 5 pathways: increase cultivation, strengthen local management, support domestic businesses, improve sector governance, and increase international collaboration. Each pathway is associated with 2–5 actions (e.g., hand over high‐elevation areas to local communities) that lead to outputs (2‐5) (e.g., an increased area under local management) and outcomes (2‐6) (e.g., less overharvesting). Accordingly, the roadmap offers stakeholders a structured approach to implement future activities and investments to enhance sustainable trade. The approach can be replicated for other countries and products.
Prolonged Guesthood: How Syrian Refugees Shaped Turkish Politics?
Authors: Erbay Elif , Usta Emine Kübra
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the effects of Syrian refugee inflow on the voting behavior of natives in Turkey. We utilize administrative data at the provincial level, employ a difference‐in‐differences strategy for the identification and distance‐based instrumental variable to account for the endogenous refugee settlement. We find a positive and significant effect of refugees on the right‐wing nationalistic party's (MHP) vote share, while there are no effects on the vote share of the incumbent party (AKP) and the main opposition party (CHP). Investigating the evolution of voting reaction after 2011 shows that AKP vote share first increased in 2015 then dropped in 2018 and 2023. When the heterogeneity of refugee hosting places is considered, CHP vote share increases in highly urban and lower population areas. Overall, our results indicate a considerable voting reaction from natives. We argue that perceived threats of natives based on their sociocultural positions and sociotropic voting behavior explain the natives' reaction.
Modelling College Students' Acceptance to Use Generative Artificial Intelligence for Second Language Learning: A Theory of Planned Behaviour Perspective
Authors: Ma Yuxia
Published: January 2025

The benefits of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) in enhancing second language (L2) learning are well established. However, these advantages can only be realised if learners are willing to adopt the technology. This study, grounded in the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB), investigated the factors influencing the behavioural intention to use GenAI among 337 Chinese college L2 learners using five validated scales. A Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) approach with Amos 24 yielded several key findings. Notably, demographic factors encompassing gender and age did not significantly affect the TPB components. Subjective norm and attitude were found to have a positive and significant impact on behavioural intention, while perceived behavioural control did not demonstrate a significant effect. Furthermore, GenAI literacy emerged as a significant predictor of behavioural intention, both directly and indirectly through its influence on attitude. Collectively, these variables accounted for 51.6% of the variance in behavioural intention. The study also discusses the theoretical and pedagogical implications and offers suggestions for future research.
Prevalence and Associations of Xerostomia in Older Adults in Southern Brazil
Authors: Mascarenhas Miguel Konradt , Cademartori Mariana G. , Borges Rafaela do Carmo , Gonzalez Maria Cristina , Bielemann Renata M. , Thomson William Murray , Demarco Flávio Fernando
Published: January 2025

Objectives

This study investigated the prevalence and associations of xerostomia in older adults in southern Brazil.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was carried out in Pelotas, Brazil, during 2014. A representative sample of the city's older adult population (60+) was selected. The dependent variable was self‐reported feeling of dry mouth in the past 6 months. Covariates included socio‐economic status, schooling, gender, age, tobacco and alcohol consumption, polypharmacy, hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, depression, dentition status and use of removable dental prostheses. Descriptive analysis was carried out, and Poisson regression was used to obtain prevalence ratios and 95% confidence intervals. Analyses used STATA 15.1.

Results

Most of the 1451 participants were female (63.3%). The prevalence of xerostomia was 36.7% (95% CI 34.3–39.1). Adjusted analysis showed that xerostomia was significantly more common among females (PR 1.44, 95% CI 1.22–1.74), those with less schooling (PR 1.31, 95% CI 1.10–1.51), those exposed to polypharmacy (PR 1.22, 95% CI 1.05–1.37), people with arthritis (PR 1.42, 95% CI 1.23–1.61) and those with depression symptoms (PR 1.45, 95% CI 1.23–1.70).

Conclusion

Xerostomia is common among older adults. Health workers need to pay attention to its associated factors for early identification and promotion of appropriate interventions, particularly the rational use of medicines.
Occurrence of sleep disorders and the value of body mass index of seniors and the quality of their aging
Authors: Dąbek Józefa , Szynal Magdalena , Sierka Oskar
Published: January 2025

Aim

The aim of the study was to assess the occurrence of sleep disorders and the value of body mass index in seniors, taking into account their quality of aging and participation in classes at Universities of the Third Age (UTAs).

Methods

The study involved 631 (100%) seniors from the Silesian Voivodeship, aged 60 to 96 years (𝑥̅ = 70.28 ± 6.09 years). An original survey questionnaire was used, supplemented by the Successful Aging Scale and the Athens Insomnia Scale questionnaires.

Results

The median of successful aging index (SAI) points obtained by UTAs “+” seniors was 11.71, while the median of SAI points obtained by UTAs “−” seniors was 11.18. Sleep disorders were more common in women than in men as well as among people aged 71–80 years compared to other groups. There were statistically significant weak negative correlations between the points obtained in Successful Aging Scale questionaire domains and the number of points in the Athens Insomnia Scale as well as body mass index value.

Conclusions

The occurrence of sleep disorders and abnormally increased body weight were associated with a deterioration in the quality of aging in the studied seniors. Seniors participating in UTAs activities had a better quality of aging than people who denied participating in the mentioned activity. Actions should be constantly taken to improve the quality of the aging process of seniors, including providing them with access to contacts with other people, treating sleep disorders and educating them on the benefits of a healthy lifestyle and maintaining a proper body weight. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2025; 25: 206–212.
Comparative Analysis of Dental Treatment for Children With and Without Special Healthcare Needs at Academic Dental Hospitals in South Africa
Authors: Njoroge Nancy , Hlongwa Phumzile , Magan Ansuyah
Published: January 2025

Background

Children with special healthcare needs (CSHCN) experience higher unmet dental treatment needs than their healthy peers (NSHCN).

Aim

We compared dental treatment received by CSHCN and NSHCN at academic dental hospitals in South Africa (SA).

Design

Clinical records of 1‐16‐year‐old children who had dental treatment under general anaesthetic (GA) between 2017 and 2023 were reviewed. Descriptive analyses were performed, and the Chi‐square/Fisher's exact test used to analyse the categorical variables.

Results

Four hundred records (CSHCN: 116 [29%] and NSHCN: 284 [71%]) were analysed. The median age at assessment was 5 years (IQR: 3–6.5). CSHCN were older than NSHCN, (p < 0.001). More CSHCN (52.6%) than NSHCN (25.4%) were referred from primary health centres, (p < 0.001). Caries was the main dental diagnosis. Multiple extractions were done in 54.7% of CSHCN < 6 years and 52.8% of 6‐11‐year‐old NSHCN. Restorative treatment was performed in 26.1% of 6–11‐year‐old CSHCN and 27.2% of NSHCN < 6 years.

Conclusions

Most of the CSHCN and NSHCN who needed GA were young with extensive caries. Treatment provided to both groups was primarily extractions, perhaps due to late presentation and limited resources. Timely preventative strategies for children at risk of caries could enhance oral health and reduce the burden of GA in SA.
A comparative developmental study of the avian syrinx: Insights into the homology of the sound‐producing muscles in birds
Authors: Nojiri Taro , Tobari Yasuko , Furutera Toshiko , Ichimura Koichiro , Takechi Masaki
Published: January 2025

The anatomical innovation of sound‐producing organs, which gives rise to a wide variety of sound signals, is one of the most fundamental factors leading to the explosive speciation of modern birds. Despite being a key clue to resolving the homology of sound‐controlling muscles among birds, only few studies have explored the embryonic development of syringeal muscles. Using serial histological sections and immunohistochemistry, we described the three‐dimensional anatomy and development of the cartilage, muscle, and innervation pattern of the tracheobronchi in three avian species: domestic fowls, cockatiels, and zebra finches. Crucially, the muscle primordia of the syringeal and tracheobronchial muscles develop from the caudal end of the lateral tracheal muscle in cockatiels and zebra finches. Furthermore, the tracheobronchial and syringeal muscle primordia of the zebra finches are subsequently split during embryonic development. Based on our findings on the identity of muscle primordia development and innervation pattern of the hypoglossal nerve between the cockatiels and zebra finches, we suggest that the muscle component traditionally documented as the superficial syringeal muscle in parrots is homologous to the tracheobronchial and ventral syringeal muscles of the zebra finches. These facts not only orchestrate the terminological discrepancies among previous studies, but also suggest that the syringeal muscles were acquired by the anatomical innovation of the lateral tracheal muscles in the common ancestor of the parrots and passerines, and further compartmentalized in the passerines, perhaps leading to a wide song repertoire for acoustic communication.
Chitin Analysis in Insect‐Based Feed Ingredients and Mixed Feed: Development of a Cost‐Effective and Practical Method
Authors: Sudwischer Patrick , Krüger Björn , Sitzmann Werner , Hellwig Michael
Published: January 2025

Insects are used as an alternative sustainable, protein‐rich ingredient in fish, pet, pig and poultry diets. The significant difference between insect meals and common protein sources is the content of chitin. The nitrogen contained in chitin, which makes up 6.89% of the chitin mass, is detected as crude protein in the analysis and, therefore, deludes the crude protein content in a higher range. In this work, we developed a chitin analysis method that does not require expensive and specialized equipment within insect production and processing industries. The method is based on classical chemical methods such as crude fibre and nitrogen content, making it easily implementable within existing feed analysis. In the process of method validation, a recovery rate of over 95% for chitin in the presence of protein and a standard deviation of < 5% at concentrations as low as 2% was determined. Furthermore, determining chitin at a higher standard deviation of > 10% at concentrations as low as 2% is possible. The method was used to determine the chitin content in various products derived from insect breeding and processing. The chitin content was determined in four insect species (Hermetia Illucens; Tenebrio molitor; Acheta domesticus; Bombyx mori) and different developmental stages of the yellow mealworm (T. molitor), including larvae, pupae and beetles, as well as in commercial pet food. These results also allow for an estimation of the insect protein content, provided that the raw material is known.
Degradation of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Symbiosis: A Mechanism Underlying Cynodon dactylon Invasion in Grasslands?
Authors: García Silvina , Pezzani Fabiana , Guido Anaclara , Lattanzi Fernando A.
Published: January 2025

Questions

Degradation of facilitative interactions of native species can play an important role in the establishment and expansion of invasive plants in communities. We evaluated the relationship between the level of invasion of Cynodon dactylon and the arbuscular mycorrhizal colonization of the native Paspalum notatum in Uruguayan grasslands, which were either extensively managed (natural vegetation [NG]) or oversown with exotic legumes and fertilized with phosphorus (NG + LP). Specifically, we investigated whether increasing invasion levels were associated with reductions in P. notatum mycorrhizal colonization, growth, and nutrient content.

Location

Uruguayan grasslands of Río de la Plata grasslands region.

Methods

Two paddocks with 19 and 27 years under NG + LP management were selected contiguous to two paddocks with NG management. In each paddock, we collected nine monoliths (0.2 m diameter × 0.3 m depth) that had P. notatum and increasing percentages of C. dactylon cover, classified as low (0%–10%), medium (30%–50%), or high (70%–90%) invasion levels. After 10 months of uninterrupted growth, shoot mass, phosphorus and nitrogen shoot concentration, and arbuscular mycorrhizal colonization were assessed in P. notatum plants.

Results

Mycorrhization decreased with increasing C. dactylon invasion. This was greater in more intensively managed grasslands (NG + LP). However, lower arbuscular mycorrhizal colonization was not associated with either lower aboveground growth or phosphorus or nitrogen shoot concentration. Furthermore, at low invasion levels, mycorrhizal colonization was similar between NG and NG + LP, despite their contrasting soil P availability.

Conclusions

The presence of arbuscular mycorrhizae in the target native grass P. notatum was negatively associated with the invasion level of C. dactylon. Therefore, mutualism degradation might be a mechanism underlying the success of C. dactylon invading grasslands, particularly those intensively managed, albeit probably not via phosphorus nutritional effects.
The repeatability of macular and peripapillary vessel density in participants with different severities of glaucoma
Authors: Hsia Yun , Wang Tsing‐Hong , Huang Jehn‐Yu , Su Chien‐Chia
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To investigate the repeatability of optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) parameters in participants with different severities of glaucoma.

Methods

Subjects with open‐angle glaucoma were enrolled prospectively and categorised into mild (mean deviation [MD] of 24–2 visual field test ≥ −6 dB), moderate to advanced (−6 > MD ≥ −20 dB) and severe glaucoma groups (MD < −20 dB). OCTA was performed three times within a single visit to obtain superficial and deep macular vessel density (VD) and peripapillary vessel and capillary density. The association between the coefficient of variation (CoV) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of these OCTA parameters and glaucoma severity (MD, the thickness of the retinal nerve fibre layer and the ganglion cell complex) was analysed, along with factors associated with the CoV of OCTA parameters.

Results

A total of 57 mild, 92 moderate to advanced and 39 severe glaucomatous eyes were included. CoV for superficial (p < 0.001) and deep macular VD (p < 0.001) and peripapillary VD (p = 0.004) increased with glaucoma severity. Greater CoV for superficial and deep macular VD and peripapillary VD was associated with worse MD and scan quality index in multivariable analysis. The association between a higher CoV of superficial and deep macular VD and worse MD was only noticeable in participants with a scan quality index <7. The relationship between the CoV of peripapillary VD and MD was consistent across varying image qualities.

Conclusion

The intrasession variability of OCTA parameters was greater in glaucoma participants with advanced disease, especially in those with suboptimal scan quality.
Oral Injuries Associated With Sodium Hydroxide
Authors: Boffano Paolo , Agnone Anna Maria , Brucoli Matteo , Rocchetti Vincenzo
Published: January 2025

Aim

The aim of the present article is to present and discuss the diagnosis and management of a patient who accidentally reported an oral injury due to sodium hydroxide.

Material and Methods

An 83‐year‐old female patient was referred to the emergency department with lip, oral and tongue lesions. The patient was confused and her recent medical history was unclear: she reported having the intention to drink some sodium hydroxide in order to improve her digestion, but after keeping it in her mouth for some seconds, she described an immediate burning sensation in her mouth and said she had spat it out without swallowing. She arrived at the emergency room 3 h after this episode.

Results

Physical examination showed erythema and swelling of the lips, and a diffuse erythema with ulcerations in the oral cavity. Abdominal examination was normal, without pain during palpation. The absence of laryngeal, oesophageal, or gastric injuries was confirmed by a gastrointestinal endoscopy and a nasofibroscopy. Then, the patient was administered intravenous antibiotics and a proton pump inhibitor, in addition to hydration with saline solution, and she was kept under medical supervision in the emergency room for 12 h before a possible return to home.

Conclusions

It is important that the dental practitioners are aware of the clinical features of the oral cavity that could be associated with the ingestion of caustic substances. An early management with intravenous treatment and a complete and careful diagnostic work‐up is necessary in such cases.
Neuropsychiatric symptoms and neuroimaging‐based brain age in mild cognitive impairment and early dementia: A multicenter study
Authors: Sone Daichi , Beheshti Iman , Tagai Kenji , Kameyama Hiroshi , Takasaki Emi , Kashibayashi Tetsuo , Takahashi Ryuichi , Ishii Kazunari , Kanemoto Hideki , Ikeda Manabu , Shigeta Masahiro , Shinagawa Shunichiro , Kazui Hiroaki
Published: January 2025

Aim

Despite the clinical importance and significant social burden of neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) in dementia, the underlying neurobiological mechanism remains poorly understood. Recently, neuroimaging‐derived brain‐age estimation by machine‐learning analysis has shown promise as an individual‐level biomarker. We investigated the relationship between NPS and brain‐age in amnestic mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and early dementia.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, clinical data, including neuropsychiatric inventory (NPI), and structural brain MRI of 499 individuals with clinical diagnoses of amnestic MCI (n = 185), early Alzheimer's disease (AD) (n = 258) or dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) (n = 56) were analyzed. We established a brain‐age prediction model using 694 healthy brain MRIs and a support vector regression model and applied it to the participants' data. Finally, the brain‐predicted age difference (brain‐PAD: predicted age minus chronological age) was calculated.

Results

All groups showed significantly increased brain‐PAD, and the median (IQR) brain‐PAD was 4.3 (5.4) years in MCI, 6.3 (6.2) years in AD, and 5.0 (6.5) years in DLB. The NPI scores were subdivided into the following four categories: (i) Agitation and Irritability, (ii) Depression and Apathy, (iii) Delusions and Hallucinations, and (iv) Euphoria and Disinhibition. We found a significantly positive correlation between brain‐PAD and the depression/apathy factor (Spearman's rs = 0.156, FDR‐corrected P = 0.002), whereas no significance was shown for the other NPS factors.

Conclusion

Higher brain‐age may be associated with depression and apathy symptoms presented in MCI to early dementia stages, and brain‐age analysis may be useful as a novel biomarker for the assessment or monitoring of NPS.
Effect of Climate Change and Health Course on Global Warming Knowledge and Attitudes, Environmental Literacy, and Eco‐Anxiety Level of Nursing Students: A Quasi‐Experimental Study
Authors: Çolak Merve , Dogan Rıdvan , Dogan Selma
Published: January 2025

Background

Climate change is the most important problem that threatens the health of individuals, public health, and health systems on a global scale. The International Council of Nurses emphasizes that nurses should strive to reduce the effects of climate change and help individuals and systems adapt. In addition, it is stated that climate change should be integrated into nursing education curricula and nursing students, who are future healthcare providers, should be prepared to reduce the effects of climate change and promote a healthier environment.

Aim

The aim of this study is to examine the effect of the Climate Change and Health course on global warming knowledge and attitude, environmental literacy, and eco‐anxiety levels in nursing students.

Design and Methods

In this study, a pretest–posttest comparative quasi‐experimental design type was used. The research was conducted with 117 students taking the “Climate Change and Health” course added to the curriculum at the Nursing Department of a private university in Istanbul between February 2023 and June 2023. Data were collected before and after the intervention using the Descriptive Characteristics Form, Global Warming Knowledge Questionnaire, Global Warming Attitude Scale, Environmental Literacy Scale for Adults, and Eco‐Anxiety Scale.

Results

After taking the Climate Change and Health course, nursing students' global warming knowledge and attitude total scores increased, and a statistically significant increase was detected in the eco anxiety total and behavioral symptoms subscale mean scores. There was no statistically significant change in the Environmental Literacy Scale total and subscale mean scores.

Conclusions

It can be stated that the Climate Change and Health course positively improved nursing students' knowledge and attitudes toward global warming and increased their sensitivity about climate change. Nurses, who constitute the most important part of the healthcare workforce worldwide, have an important role in creating a healthy and safe environment and in combating the effects of global warming and climate change. For this reason, in order to train knowledgeable and equipped health professionals on this subject, it is recommended that courses on the effects of climate change, adaptation, and coping with it be added to the nursing curriculum and integrated into all subjects every year to ensure continuity.
Associations between blood donors, component modifications, and the alloimmunization of transfusion recipients
Authors: Yu Han , Karafin Matthew S. , Tormey Christopher Anthony , Goel Ruchika , Spencer Bryan Ross , Hendrickson Jeanne E. , Hauser Ronald George
Published: January 2025

Background

Prior studies have evaluated transfusion recipient variables impacting red blood cell (RBC) alloimmunization, but few focused on potentially modifiable blood donor or blood component variables.

Study Design and Methods

Data from the Recipient Epidemiology and Donor Evaluation Study (REDS)‐III, which links donor, component, and patient data in an integrated database, were accessed. For any given RBC unit with sufficient blood donor and component data, we determined if the transfusion recipient experienced a new RBC alloimmunization event (“case”) within 16 weeks of the transfusion or not (“control”). Recipient diagnoses were included in the case–control matching algorithm.

Results

A total of 2676 cases were matched with 10,160 controls. In a multivariate conditional logistic regression analysis, recipients who received an RBC unit from donors with a different ABO group had a higher risk of alloimmunization (OR 1.60, 95% CI: 1.35–1.89, p < .001). Likewise, recipients who received RBCs from older donors had a higher risk of RBC alloimmunization (OR 1.01 per year of age, 95% CI: 1.00–1.01, p < .001). Irradiated RBCs were associated with a decreased risk of RBC alloimmunization in transfusion recipients (OR 0.52, 95% CI: 0.46–0.59, p < .001), though a sub‐analysis of RBCs transfused to people with sickle cell disease showed no such association (p = .75). Recipients who received RBCs stored for a longer duration also had a lower risk (OR 0.99 per day of storage, 95% CI: 0.99–0.99, p < .001) of alloimmunization.

Discussion

This case–control study identified donor and component variables associated with recipient RBC alloantibody formation. Future mechanistic studies exploring these associations are warranted.