bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Defining Excellence: The First Core Set of Quality Indicators for the European Paediatric Surgical Audit on Hirschsprung's Disease Care
Authors: Rossi Daniel , Granström Anna Löf , Pakarinen Mikko , Bjørnland Kristin , de Blaauw Ivo , Ellebæk Mark , Leon Francesco Fascetti , Gloudemans Dirk‐Jan , Prato Alessio Pini , Rolle Udo , Schwarzer Nicole , Tabbers Merit , Vilanova Alejandra , Wijnen Rene , Sloots Cornelius E. J. , Wester Tomas ,   the EPSA|ERNICA Registry Group and collaborative authors
Published: January 2025

Aim

This study aimed to develop a universally applicable core set of quality indicators for Hirschsprung's disease care through a consensus‐driven process, to standardise and improve care quality across Europe.

Methods

A modified Delphi method was used to achieve consensus among healthcare professionals (HPs) and patient representatives (PRs) across Europe. Participants completed three rounds of anonymous surveys, rating quality indicators for Hirschsprung's disease care. A systematic literature review informed the initial item list. Results were analysed using predefined criteria, and a final consensus meeting established the core set of indicators.

Results

An international panel of 8 PRs and 96 multidisciplinary health care professionals representing 59 European hospitals completed all questionnaires, eventually including 12 baseline characteristics and 39 indicators. Six of the top 10 indicators were commonly prioritised by both groups. The remaining items were refined through debate and finalised during a consensus meeting.

Conclusion

This study established a core set of 12 baseline characteristics and 14 quality indicators for evaluating Hirschsprung's disease care. These indicators will support benchmarking and continuous quality improvement within the European Paediatric Surgical Audit framework, ultimately enhancing outcomes and care for children with Hirschsprung's disease.
Green Investing and Corporate Environmental Violations: Do CEO Ability and Female Directors Matter?
Authors: Khalid Fahad , Curseu Petru L. , Voinea Cosmina L. , Sun Xinhui , Srivastava Mohit
Published: January 2025

Building on the notion that organizations are congruence seeking systems, this study investigates the impact of green investing on corporate environmental violations (CEVs). The research sample consists of China's A‐share‐listed companies for the period 2009–2020. The study employs a robust analytical framework that integrates least squares dummy variable approach, different proxies for regressors and moderators, and instrumental variable technique. Based on the rigorous methods, empirical analysis reveals that green investing helps mitigate CEVs, aligning with the theoretical premise of environmental strategic congruence. The moderating results indicate that elevated CEO ability and a higher proportion of female directors on boards enhances strategic congruence and amplifies the alleviating effects of green investing on CEVs. Furthermore, cross‐sectional analysis suggests that the mitigating effect of green investing on CEVs is more pronounced for firms in sensitive sectors, state‐owned, and lacking internal controls for environmental, health, and safety. This research contributes nuanced insights on the role of strategic congruence in sustainable finance and governance and presents practical implications for policymakers, managers, and corporate leaders navigating the intricate landscape of environmental responsibility within an emerging market.
Single‐Shot Example Terrain Sketching by Graph Neural Networks
Authors: Liu Y. , Benes B.
Published: January 2025

Terrain generation is a challenging problem. Procedural modelling methods lack control, while machine learning methods often need large training datasets and struggle to preserve the topology information. We propose a method that generates a new terrain from a single image for training and a simple user sketch. Our single‐shot method preserves the sketch topology while generating diversified results. Our method is based on a graph neural network (GNN) and builds a detailed relation among the sketch‐extracted features, that is, ridges and valleys and their neighbouring area. By disentangling the influence from different sketches, our model generates visually realistic terrains following the user sketch while preserving the features from the real terrains. Experiments are conducted to show both qualitative and quantitative comparisons. The structural similarity index measure of our generated and real terrains is around 0.8 on average.
Alternative Data as an External Governance Mechanism
Authors: Li Emma , Wang Zhengwei , Zhao Le
Published: January 2025

Research Question/Issue

This study explores the relationship between the availability of alternative data and financial statement fraud among Chinese firms.

Research Findings/Insights

We first show that companies' online sales data, independently collected by a third‐party data vendor, can detect financial statement fraud before 2018, before which such alternative data were not available to the public. Second, we find that the association between financial statement fraud and the proxy constructed from alternative data becomes weaker after the publicity of alternative data. Third, we find that the impact from alternative data availability on corporate financial statement fraud is greater among firms with weaker external governance, such as firms with less analyst coverage, as well as lower quality auditors.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

This study enhances the understanding of the relationship between information environment characteristics and corporate fraud. We suggest a new information intermediary, alternative data providers, and investigate the role that alternative data play in financial statement fraud. And we also add to the growing literature regarding the impact of technology on corporate fraud and corporate governance.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

This study proposes a new measure to capture company managers' hidden behavior and provide new insights regarding the usefulness of company‐level online sales data, as provided by an independent entity in relation to financial statement fraud. These findings have important implications for investors, policymakers, and market participants in understanding the role of alternative data in detecting financial fraud and acting as an external governance mechanism.
Why is China Promoting Economic Globalization? A Leadership Theory of Globalization
Authors: Guo Meixin , Li David Daokui , Lang Kun
Published: January 2025

This article proposes a leadership theory of globalization to explain how economic globalization occurs and evolves, and why China wants to take a leading role in globalization. The theory posits that an economy equipped with advanced industrial technology, a substantial domestic market, and robust institutional capacity is more likely to take the lead in driving economic globalization. Technological advantages in high‐tech industries position an economy favorably within the global value chains, maximizing its benefits from economic globalization. A large domestic market can entice other countries to agree to open their markets reciprocally. Institutional capacity enables governments to deter opposition to globalization from those disadvantaged by economic opening. This paper presents studies of historical cases of economic globalization and provides a three‐stage model of globalization. It argues that China has been gaining on three fronts in recent decades and is therefore willing to promote economic globalization.
Supply Chain Disruption and Import Strategy: Evidence from the Great East Japan Earthquake
Authors: Lu Fan , Li Zhicong , Cai Xinrong
Published: January 2025

Global supply chain networks foster collaboration but accelerate cross‐border risk transmission. This study investigates the effect of the 2011 East Japan earthquake on Chinese firms' import strategies. The findings reveal that the disruption led to a shift toward supply chain concentration, with firms reducing the diversification of import sources. There was a slight increase in the number of countries from which firms sourced imports but import shares became more concentrated, reflecting a reliance on fewer, centralized suppliers. Firms affected by the earthquake prioritized long‐term partnerships and sought suppliers in regions with lower natural disaster risks, aiming to mitigate supply chain vulnerabilities and reduce switching costs. The findings also show that state‐owned enterprises, private firms, and research and development‐intensive firms were more inclined to centralize their import sources. This suggests that these firms, leveraging their larger scale, substantial resources, and robust risk management strategies, favored a more concentrated sourcing approach in order to better control their supply chains and ensure stability in the face of global disruptions.
Involving people with lived experience when setting cerebral palsy research priorities: A scoping review
Authors: Younan Evonne , McIntyre Sarah , Garrity Natasha , Karim Tasneem , Wallace Mark , Gross Paul , Goldsmith Shona
Published: January 2025

Aim

To describe research priority‐setting activities for cerebral palsy (CP) that have been conducted worldwide involving people with lived experience, focusing on participant characteristics, methods employed, identified research priorities, and collaboration as research partners.

Method

The JBI scoping review approach was followed. Six electronic databases and grey literature were searched for all publications up to February 2024. We extracted study and participant characteristics, methods, and research priorities. Priorities were then categorized into prevention and cure, quality of life and community engagement, and service provision and intervention.

Results

Five studies from North America and Australia met the inclusion criteria. Participants with lived experience were most often parents/caregivers (n = 135, proportion 12–80%), with 54 (proportion 12–25%) people with CP participating in the priority‐setting exercises. The studies' methods were varied, with surveys and workshops being the most common. The most reported category of research priorities was optimal intervention. People with lived experience collaborated as research partners (e.g. in aspects of study development/analysis/reporting) in four studies.

Interpretation

This review, the first to examine CP research priority‐setting efforts on a global scale, identified five activities conducted to date. The small overall number of participants with lived experience of CP, originating only from North America and Australia, highlights the need for increased representation to better reflect the diverse CP community worldwide. Future projects need to address these gaps, using rigorous methodologies, and continued collaboration with research partners to ensure their perspectives shape and enhance the research agenda.
Idiosyncratic asset return and wage risk of US households
Authors: Snudden Stephen
Published: January 2025

This paper documents the degree of idiosyncratic asset return heterogeneity, serial correlation, and correlation with wage heterogeneity for US households. Novel panel‐data measurements for returns on household assets are proposed. Sizable transitory idiosyncratic return heterogeneity is documented to exist concurrently with permanent heterogeneity in household‐specific returns. On average, idiosyncratic permanent risk to wages and transitory risk to total asset returns are correlated. This arises primarily from correlated wage and return risk to primary housing assets, and is dependent on age and wealth. The estimates inform the covariance structure of idiosyncratic asset return and wage heterogeneity.
The Enforcement Dilemma of EU Fiscal Rules
Authors: Kirchsteiger Georg , Larch Martin
Published: January 2025

Effective enforcement is an essential element of any fiscal rule. The EU's Stability and Growth Pact has been struggling with this truism since inception. We show that its effectiveness goes beyond the threat of fines. The notion that deficit‐prone member states adopt a more virtuous fiscal behaviour to avert sanctions is overshadowed by the realization that in the event of a major shock virtuous countries will come to their rescue as the survival of the entire system is at stake. Unless the underlying issues are addressed, the effectiveness of any EU fiscal rule remains limited.
Analysis of Crack‐Tip Field in Orthotropic Compact Tension Shear Specimens: The Role of Elastic Mode Mixity and T‐Stress
Authors: Jin Pengfei , Duan Xianghao , Luo Ce , Guo Qi , Liu Zheng , Wang Xin , Chen Xu
Published: January 2025

The analysis of mixed‐mode crack propagation mechanisms in anisotropic materials remains a pivotal research focus. Although the compact tension shear (CTS) test is a recommended laboratory method, the lack of solutions for anisotropic crack‐tip field parameters hinders accurate assessment of stress states and deformations during crack propagation. To address this gap, this study conducted a systematic finite element analysis (FEA) to compute the elastic mode mixity and T‐stress results. It is found that by adjusting the loading angle along with the initial crack length, CTS tests on orthotropic specimens can similarly achieve a broad spectrum of Me at the crack‐tip. Statistical analysis indicates that applying isotropic solutions to estimate orthotropic T‐stress can lead to average errors of 234.1%. Subsequently, crack‐tip fields were analyzed, with crack initiation angles predicted using the maximum tangential stress (MTS) criterion and plastic zone profiles determined based on Hill's yield criterion. Larger fracture process zones enhance T‐stress correction effects on crack initiation angles, with positive T intensifying crack deflection, while negative T reduces it. Additionally, T also significantly affects the plastic zone's shape and size, with patterns varying according to material orthotropy. A detailed multiparameter characterization of crack‐tip fields will enhance the use of the CTS test for assessing multiaxial strength and mixed‐mode fracture mechanisms in anisotropic materials.
Proposing a New Crack Driving Force Parameter for Fatigue Crack Growth Rate of C–Mn Steel
Authors: Bharadwaj Prakash , Gupta Suneel K. , Arora Punit , Chattopadhyay J.
Published: January 2025

The present study is aimed at analyzing the fatigue crack growth rate data on compact tension (CT) and three‐point‐bend (TPB) specimens of C–Mn steel under different positive load ratios. Detailed elastic–plastic finite element analyses have been performed using nonlinear kinematic hardening rule of Chaboche material model. The numerically calculated plastic zone ahead of crack tip has been compared with measured plastic zone using digital image correlation technique. The fatigue crack growth rate curves have been analyzed with respect to different crack driving forces such as (i) single‐parameter stress intensity factor (SIF) range, (ii) two‐parameter‐based SIF (), and (iii) cyclic plasticity zone–based models. A new crack driving force has been proposed considering cyclic plastic zone and representative plastic strain accumulation within this zone. The parameter and proposed model resulted in improved assessments for different load ratios and constraint geometries (CT and TPB).
Rural Tourism: A Hybrid Review and Future Research Agenda
Authors: Choudhary Vikas , Datta Biplab , Mukherjee Srabanti
Published: January 2025

Rural tourism (RT) is a fast‐growing sector that scholars believe is an effective strategy for sustainable development of rural areas. This study aims to review the extant literature on RT in developed and developing economies. No study till date has attempted to compare and contrast the key areas and current dynamics of RT in developed and developing economies. To address this important gap, this study adopts a hybrid review of bibliometric analysis and ADO‐TCM framework to (i) provide a comprehensive and retrospective overview of RT literature, (ii) compare the state of existing RT research in developed and developing economies, (iii) integrate various associations such as antecedents, decisions, and outcomes into an integrated conceptual framework, (iv) synthesize foundational theories, contextual factors and methodological approaches that have influenced and shaped RT, and (v) explore the multifaceted implications of RT on tourists, local community and tourism practitioners. This study investigates 454 studies, comprising 266 from developed and 188 from developing economies, to identify patterns in research in each from 1973 to 2023. This study reveals (i) productivity trend of RT literature and its foremost contributors (countries, authors, journals), (ii) important thematic cluster of RT research in both economies, and (iii) key factors influencing decisions and subsequent outcomes in RT domain. Additionally, the article identifies the significant gaps in the RT literature and offers specific recommendations for future investigation for researchers and practitioners. This review has numerous implications that can promote more sustainable ways of tourism by offering insights from the perspectives of various stakeholders.
Comparative study on the sintered porous A‐type carbonate apatite, B‐type carbonate apatite, and hydroxyapatite
Authors: Irawan Vincent , Akaike Kaori , Mizuno Hayato Laurence , Anraku Yasutaka , Sotome Shinichi , Okawa Atsushi , Yoshii Toshitaka , Ikoma Toshiyuki
Published: January 2025

There are two types of carbonated apatite (cap): A‐type and B‐type, where carbonate ions substitute for hydroxyl sites in A‐CAp and phosphate sites in B‐CAp. Despite the known capacity of CAp in supporting the activities of bone cells, the distinct potential of A‐CAp and B‐CAp as porous bone grafts is unclear. This study aimed to fabricate porous A‐CAp and B‐CAp and evaluate their biological activities in vitro and in vivo as compared to stoichiometric hydroxyapatite (HAp). Gelatin‐casting and freeze‐drying followed by sintering were used to produce A‐ and B‐CAp with high porosity ∼70%, pore sizes ∼100 µm, and high strength < 3 MPa. The carbonate contents of A‐ and B‐CAp were 3.83 and 4.5 wt%, respectively, as determined by thermal gravimetric analysis and calculations based on thermal decomposition reactions. A‐ and B‐CAp dissolved faster than HAp. A‐CAp had a higher affinity for albumin but poorer osteoblastic cell attachment, while both A‐ and B‐CAp had lower proliferation rates than HAp. After 2 weeks implantation in vivo, A‐CAp and HAp showed limited bone formation, whereas B‐CAp demonstrated bone ingrowth. Notably, A‐CAp showed enhanced osteoclast maturation. Both A‐CAp and B‐CAp were degradable after 8 weeks post‐implantation. Structural features and carbonate substitution types elicit different output on physicochemical, osteoconductivity, and degradability.
Referral for Diabetes Self‐Management Education and Support in Adult Primary Care: An Integrative Review
Authors: Gbaba Serina , Turkson‐Ocran Ruth Alma , Renda Susan , Ogungbe Oluwabunmi , Somervell Helina , Harne‐Britner Sarah , Commodore‐Mensah Yvonne , Baptiste Diana
Published: January 2025

Aims

The purpose of this integrative review was to identify effective diabetes self‐management education and support for increasing adult primary care referrals, participation rates and improving health outcomes for persons with diabetes.

Design

Integrative review.

Methods

A systematic literature search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase and CINAHL was performed by applying the PRISMA guidelines. Following Whittemore and Knafl's method, 11 papers were included for review.

Results

Integration of diabetes self‐management education and support in primary care clinics and a multifaceted approach resulted in improved referral and participation rates, ameliorated glycated haemoglobin A1C and boosted patient, provider and staff satisfaction.

Conclusion

Patient‐centred multifaceted interventions can boost current diabetes self‐management education referrals and participation rates and enhance health outcomes for persons with diabetes. Nurses in their role as primary care providers, diabetes educators and clinic staff are well‐positioned to undertake this intervention. Further investigation is needed to explore the impact of these interventions among individuals with type 1 diabetes, gestational diabetes and those living across various global regions.

Implications for Patient Care

Along with other healthcare providers, nurses are qualified to advocate for, and lead programmes that increase referrals for persons with diabetes to improve health outcomes. Additionally, as primary care providers, nurse practitioners are well placed to positively impact the outcomes of individuals with diabetes by referring them to diabetes self‐management education. Nurses, as diabetes educators, are well positioned to implement diabetes self‐management education which can improve patient outcomes.

Impact

Improved referral of persons with diabetes to diabetes self‐management education and increased participation have the propensity to contribute to the achievement of positive health outcomes for individuals living with Type 2 Diabetes.

Patient or Public Contribution

There is no patient or public contribution for this review.
Stromal Cell Derived Factor‐1 Promotes Hepatic Insulin Resistance via Inhibiting Hepatocyte Lipophagy
Authors: Lu Chunfeng , Zhang Yuting , Sun Cuilian , Na Yuhang , Sun Haotian , Ma Jianhua , Wang Xueqin , Cang Xiaomin
Published: January 2025

Saturated fatty acid (SFA) accumulation in liver decreases hepatocyte lipophagy, a type of selective autophagy that degrades intracellular lipid droplets, leading to hepatic insulin resistance (IR), which contributes to simultaneous increases in liver glucose production and fat synthesis, resulting in hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia traits of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Stromal cell derived factor‐1 (SDF‐1), a cytokine produced by hepatocytes, inhibits autophagy. In this study, we evaluated the hypothesis that SDF‐1 promoted hepatic IR via inhibiting hepatocyte lipophagy during T2DM. Furthermore, we probed the downstream pathway participating in the role of SDF‐1. The results showed that the neutralising of SDF‐1 improved hepatic IR via promoting hepatocyte lipophagy in a mouse high‐fat and high sucrose diet (HFHSD)‐induced T2DM model. In vitro, SDF‐1 expression and release increased in palmitic acid (PA, a kind of SFA)‐treated hepatocytes. Meanwhile, SDF‐1 bound to up‐regulated C‐X‐C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4) and C‐X‐C chemokine receptor type 7 (CXCR7) on PA‐treated hepatocytes. Subsequently, SDF‐1 inhibited lipophagy in PA‐treated hepatocytes via CXCR4, rather than CXCR7. Finally, SDF‐1/CXCR4/protein kinase B (AKT)/mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway‐inhibited lipophagy promotes PA‐induced hepatocyte IR. Collectively, this study discovered that SDF‐1 might inhibit lipophagy in SFA‐treated hepatocytes to promote hepatic IR via CXCR4/AKT/mTOR pathway.
The Effect of Plaque Detectors on the Color Stability of Two Types of Restorative Materials
Authors: Mazzitelli Claudia , Paolone Gaetano , Josic Uros , Mancuso Edoardo , Vichi Alessandro , Pastremoli Ginevra , Mazzoni Annalisa , Breschi Lorenzo , Maravic Tatjana
Published: January 2025

Objective

To investigate the color stability of a one‐shade resin‐based composite material (RC) and a glass‐ionomer cement (GIC) after staining with plaque detectors (PDs) with different formulations and delivery forms.

Materials and Methods

Rectangular‐shaped specimens (7 × 3 × 2 mm) were produced with RC (Venus Diamond One, Kulzer) and GIC (Fujy IX GP, GC) (n = 30). Further, the following PDs were used on the specimens: (1) tablets (T; Plaq‐Search, TePe); (2) mouthwash (M; Plaque Agent, Miradent); and (3) light‐curing liquid (L; Plaque test, Ivoclar). The PDs were removed with dedicated toothbrushes (T1) and the specimens were repolished (T2). The protocol was repeated after 1 week of storage in artificial saliva (staining—T3 and repolishing—T4). Color measurement were performed at baseline (T0) and all testing times (T1—T4) using a recently introduced digital colorimeter (SmartColor, Smart Vision). Color changes (ΔEab) compared to T0 were automatically recorded by the digital instrument. The data were statistically analyzed (p < 0.05).

Results

The type of PD, the polishing procedure and their interactions influenced the color stability of both restorative materials (p < 0.05). Particularly, after the second PDs application, M and L produced the highest color changes (p < 0.05), with GIC showing higher color variability than RC. Although repolishing reduced the color changes of RC (p < 0.05), it could not reestablish the initial color of GIC, irrespective of the PD used (p < 0.05). Except for RC associated with T, all materials exhibited discoloration above the clinical perceptibility (1.77) and acceptability (2.66) thresholds.

Conclusions

The influence of PDs on the color stability of RC and GIC was material‐dependent. GIC showed higher color instability than RC. Repolishing could not reestablish the original color of GIC and only attenuated the color changes of the one‐shade RC. The newly introduced digital colorimeter was an important tool to standardize and simplify color measurement evaluations.

Clinical Significance

PDs can pose a potential risk to the color stability of restorative materials. Dental practitioners should be careful when recommending the frequency of at‐home application of PDs, taking into consideration the material properties and the position of the restorations of each patient.
The Effects of Exergaming on the Depressive Symptoms of People With Dementia: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Cheung Daphne Sze Ki , Tse Hau Yi Jodie , Wong Duo Wai‐Chi , Chan Cheuk Yin , Wan Wing Lam , Chu Ka Ki , Lau Sze Wing , Lo Lok Lam , Wong Tsz Ying , So Yee Ki , Cheung James Chung‐Wai , Ho Ken Hok Man
Published: January 2025

Background

Depressive symptoms are common among people with dementia (PWD). Exergaming consisting of combined cognitive and physical training in gaming is increasingly used to alleviate their depressive symptoms in research. With its potential synergistic neurobiological and psychosocial effects on reducing depressive symptoms among PWD, this review aimed to understand its effectiveness and contents.

Methods

This is a systematic review of the effectiveness of exergames on depressive symptoms among older adults with dementia. A search was conducted on 7 May 2024 of the online databases CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO, PubMed and the China Academic Journal Network Publishing Database (CNKI). The methodological quality of randomised controlled trials (RCT) and quasi‐experimental studies was assessed with RoB2 and ROBINS‐I, respectively. A meta‐analysis of the included RCTs was conducted.

Results

Six studies consisting of four RCTs and two quasi‐experimental studies involving 235 participants with various stages of dementia were included. The meta‐analysis showed a significant overall improvement in depression with a large effect size (SMD = 1.46, 95% CI = −2.50, −0.43; p = 0.006). Despite high heterogeneity (I2 = 91%), all studies demonstrated a trend of improvement in depression after the intervention. The exergames adopted in the included trials had the following elements: simultaneous motor‐cognitive training, a scoring mechanism and a social play. The dose of exergames ranged from 15 to 60 min per session for at least 8 weeks, with a minimum of two sessions weekly. However, the included studies had a moderate‐to‐serious risk of bias. The certainty of the evidence was very low.

Conclusion

Exergames could be effective at improving the depressive symptoms of older adults with dementia. Yet, a moderate‐to‐severe risk of bias shows a rigorous study should be conducted in the future.

Implications for Patient Care

This study provides evidence for healthcare professionals and informal caregivers to use exergames to address depressive symptoms in PWD.

Review Registration

The review was registered on PROSPERO with the reference CRD42022372762.
Effects of welfare reform on maternal engagement and involvement with young adolescents
Authors: Corman Hope , Dave Dhaval M. , Kalil Ariel , Schwartz‐Soicher Ofira , Reichman Nancy E.
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study investigates the effects of welfare reform in the U.S. on positive parenting‐related outcomes and potential pathways.

Background

The 1996 welfare reform legislation sharply restricted eligibility for benefits with a strong emphasis on employment over cash assistance. The legislation led to dramatic declines in welfare caseloads and increases in employment. Much less is known about the effects of welfare reform on dynamics within families that affect children.

Method

Using data on low‐educated unmarried mothers in the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1979 linked to information on their 10‐ to 14‐year‐old children, we exploit variations in welfare reform implementation across states, over time, and between treatment and comparison groups to identify plausibly causal effects of the legislation on children's reports of activities with parents and closeness of the maternal‐child relationship. The analytic sample includes 3,172–3,737 observations for boys and 3,089–3,619 for girls, depending on outcome.

Results

We find modestly negative effects of welfare reform on children's reports of activities with parents and closeness of the maternal‐child relationship, with stronger effects for boys than girls. We find no evidence that the effects operated through employment. However, we found suggestive evidence that decreases in income play a role.

Conclusion

Welfare reform compromised maternal involvement and engagement with adolescents, particularly boys, which could adversely affect their development and long‐run success.
Exploring Haemodialysis Nurses' Perceptions on Kidney Replacement Therapy Modality Education: A Framework Analysis
Authors: Jaibeeh Barah Elke , Jackson Jennifer
Published: January 2025

Background

Many people with kidney failure start and remain on in‐centre haemodialysis treatment despite evidence of improved outcomes with home dialysis. To make an informed modality decision patients must receive frequent, high‐quality modality education. This education is inconsistent in the in‐centre haemodialysis setting, where patients spend the most time with nurses while receiving haemodialysis treatments.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to examine in‐centre haemodialysis nurses' perceptions around modality education for patients receiving in‐centre haemodialysis using the COM‐B model of behaviour change.

Design

We used framework analysis as a research method, applying the COM‐B model as a theoretical framework to understand nurses' perceptions of modality education.

Participants

We interviewed 13 in‐centre haemodialysis nurses in a single province in Canada.

Approach

We completed semi‐structured interviews via Zoom, which ranged from 30 to 60 min.

Findings

Participants reported knowledge deficits, lack of experience or exposure to other dialysis modalities, and lack of resources to support modality education practices. In‐centre haemodialysis nurses reported some factors that enhanced modality education, including strong nurse–patient therapeutic relationships and previous experience in other dialysis modalities.

Conclusions

Nurses could have a role in modality education but had different views on what this role should be. Nurses faced barriers in modality education such as knowledge deficits, a lack of experience with home modalities, and limited patient teaching resources. Factors that favoured modality education were strong nurse–patient relationships and previous experience with other modalities.
Spatial and temporal analyses of Dermacentor variabilis (Say) (Acari: Ixodidae) in central and eastern Canada
Authors: Nichol Grace K. , Weese J. Scott , Dergousoff Shaun J. , Greer Amy L. , Clow Katie M.
Published: January 2025

Dermacentor variabilis (Say) (Acari: Ixodidae) is a vector for pathogens that can impact human and animal health. The geographic range of this species is expanding, but there are some areas with limited up‐to‐date information on the distribution of D. variabilis. Therefore, the objective of this study was to describe the spatial and temporal patterns of adult D. variabilis activity in central and eastern Canada. Ticks were collected from companion animals by veterinary clinic staff. Suspected locations of tick acquisition were spatially projected, and a spatial scan statistic was used to identify statistically significant clusters of frequent submissions from veterinary clinics. Submissions were categorised by calendar week to evaluate temporal trends. In total, 1198 adult D. variabilis, one nymphal D. variabilis and one Dermacentor albipictus (Packard) were collected from the provinces of Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island from April 2019 through March 2020. Peaks in adult D. variabilis submissions occurred in May and June. Most of the submissions were received from south‐eastern Manitoba, eastern Ontario and central and western Nova Scotia. A statistically significant cluster of frequent submissions that included seven veterinary clinics was identified in Nova Scotia. These findings can be used to determine the locations and times at which humans and their companion animals should be considered at an increased risk of exposure to D. variabilis and the pathogens they carry.
Glycoside‐specific metabolomics reveals the novel mechanism of glycinebetaine‐induced cold tolerance by regulating apigenin glycosylation in tea plants
Authors: Huang Shan , Zhang Sasa , Ma Xuejing , Zheng Xin , Liu Yaojia , Zhu Qinghua , Luo Xiaoqin , Cui Jilai , Song Chuankui
Published: January 2025

Glycosylation is a key modification that affects secondary metabolites under stress and is influenced by glycinebetaine (GB) to regulate plant stress tolerance. However, the complexity and detection challenges of glycosides hinder our understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of their metabolic interaction with GB during stress.

A glycoside‐specific metabolomic approach utilizing cone voltage‐induced in‐source dissociation was developed, achieving precise and high‐throughput detection of glycosides in tea plants by narrowing the target ion range by 94.3%. Combined with enzyme activity assays, exogenous spraying, and gene silencing, this approach helps investigate the role of GB‐glycosides cascade effect in enhancing cold tolerance of tea plants.

Our method demonstrated that silencing betaine aldehyde dehydrogenase (CsBADH1) in tea plants altered 60 glycoside ions while reducing GB content and cold tolerance, indicating that glycosylation affects GB‐mediated cold tolerance. By combining glycoside‐specific with conventional metabolomics, isorhoifolin, a GB‐regulated cold response metabolite was discovered, and its precursor apigenin was found to be a new cold tolerance metabolite that enhanced cold tolerance by scavenging reactive oxygen species.

This study reveals a new mechanism by which GB mediated cold tolerance in tea plants through regulating apigenin glycosylation, broadening our understanding of the role of glycosylation in plant cold tolerance.
Metabolic modeling identifies determinants of thermal growth responses in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Wendering Philipp , Andreou Gregory M. , Laitinen Roosa A. E. , Nikoloski Zoran
Published: January 2025

Temperature is a critical environmental factor affecting nearly all plant processes, including growth, development, and yield. Yet, despite decades of research, we lack the ability to predict plant performance at different temperatures, limiting the development of climate‐resilient crops. Further, there is a pressing need to bridge the gap between the prediction of physiological and molecular traits to improve our understanding and manipulation of plant temperature responses.

Here, we developed the first enzyme‐constrained model of Arabidopsis thaliana's metabolism, facilitating predictions of growth‐related phenotypes at different temperatures.

We showed that the model can be employed for in silico identification of genes that affect plant growth at suboptimal growth temperature. Using mutant lines, we validated the genes predicted to affect plant growth, demonstrating the potential of metabolic modeling in accurately predicting plant thermal responses.

The temperature‐dependent enzyme‐constrained metabolic model provides a template that can be used for developing sophisticated strategies to engineer climate‐resilient crops.
Threshold Expectile Regressions With an Unknown Threshold for Dependent Data
Authors: Zhang Feipeng , Tu Yundong
Published: January 2025

This article introduces a threshold expectile regression model with an unknown threshold for dependent data, which enables simple characterization of nonlinearity and heteroscedasticity in economic and financial applications. Profile estimation is proposed for the unknown parameters, and a sup‐Wald test is developed to test the existence of the threshold effect at a fixed expectile level. Inference issues across multiple expectile levels are further considered, with a likelihood‐ratio‐type test designed to check for the presence of a common threshold value. Monte Carlo simulations demonstrate the nice finite sample performance of the proposed inference procedures. Finally, an empirical application demonstrates that the debt‐to‐GDP ratio has a heterogeneous threshold effect on the U.S. growth rate across the growth distribution.
Validity of non‐traditional measures of obesity compared to total body fat across the life course: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Palumbo Alexandra M. , Jacob Chandni Maria , Khademioore Sahar , Sakib Mohammad Nazmus , Yoshida‐Montezuma Yulika , Christodoulakis Nicolette , Yassa Peter , Vanama Manasvi Sai , Gamra Syrine , Ho Pei‐Ju , Sadana Ritu , De Rubeis Vanessa , Griffith Lauren E. , Anderson Laura N.
Published: January 2025

IntroductionTraditional obesity measures including body mass index, waist circumference, waist‐to‐hip ratio, and waist‐to‐height ratio have limitations. The primary objective of this study was to identify and review the validity of non‐traditional obesity measures, using measures of total body fat as the reference standard, that have been used across multiple life stages. MethodsWe conducted a systematic review and searched MEDLINE, Embase, and PsycINFO. We included observational studies published from 2013 to October 2023 among “the general population” for any life stage that reported the validity of non‐traditional obesity measures compared to total body fat reference standards. Separate meta‐analyses were performed to pool correlation coefficients and mean differences for non‐traditional obesity measures that were evaluated at multiple life stages. ResultsA total of 123 studies were included, and 55 validated non‐traditional obesity measures were identified. Of these, 13 were evaluated at multiple life stages. Two‐dimensional (2D) digital imaging technologies, three‐dimensional (3D) body scanners, relative fat mass (RFM), and mid‐upper arm circumference had high or moderate validity (pooled correlation coefficient >0.70). Pooled mean differences were small (<6%) between total body fat percentage from reference standards and from RFM, 2D digital imaging technologies, 3D body scanners, and the body adiposity index. Heterogeneity (I2) was >75% in most meta‐analyses. ConclusionNumerous validated non‐traditional obesity measures were identified; relatively few were evaluated at multiple life stages and did not consider health risks associated with adiposity. More research is needed to define valid obesity measures across all life stages that assess health and adiposity.
‘Such a lot of bother’: Qualitative results of a home trial of a wearable electronic vision enhancement system for people with age‐related macular degeneration
Authors: Miller Andrew , Macnaughton Jane , Crossland Michael D. , Latham Keziah
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Wearable electronic low vision enhancement systems (wEVES) improve visual function but are not widely adopted by people with vision impairment. Here, qualitative research methods were used to investigate the usefulness of wEVES for people with age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) after an extended home trial.

Methods

Following a 12‐week non‐masked randomised crossover trial, semi‐structured interviews were completed with 34 participants with AMD, 64.7% female, mean age 80.2 (±6.0) years, mean distance visual acuity 0.81logMAR (±0.32). Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyse the data.

Results

Four themes were developed: (i) early positivity and potential; (ii) you're not good enough: performance barriers of the device; (iii) you're annoying: practicality barriers of the device and (iv) we can fix this together. First, participants expressed joy in an aesthetically appealing device perceived as potentially enabling, different and complementary to their current solutions. Imagined usefulness included not only reading, shopping and television but also resuming abandoned hobbies. The second theme captured performance barriers that restricted numerous activities but were most acutely noted with manipulation tasks. Barriers included image quality, screen size and short‐lived adverse effects. The third theme conveyed the multiple practical challenges that caused annoyance, preventing imagined usage even when performance appeared superior to other solutions. Slow start‐up times and the inability to use wEVES dynamically prevented integration within users' lifestyles. The final theme reflected that wEVES remained a desirable concept, but future iterations require inclusive design methodology to ensure development is directed by consumers' needs.

Conclusions

Performance and practicality barriers limit the usefulness of a device initially seen as desirable. Current devices do not align with users' requirements for flexible use, even when performance is good. Improvements in technology may solve performance barriers, but these changes must be inclusively designed and evaluated to ensure the device integrates more successfully into the lives of users with AMD.
Finite Element Analysis of Proximal Femoral Bionic Nail (PFBN), Proximal Femoral Nail Antirotation and InterTan for Treatment of Reverse Obliquity Intertrochanteric Fractures
Authors: Xiong Chen , Zhang Lijia , Wang Yanhua , Zhang Xiaomeng , Chen Xiaofeng , Yu Kai , Zhang Yichong , Fu Huijuan , Ding Zhentao , Zhang Dianying
Published: January 2025

Objective

Reverse obliquity intertrochanteric fracture is an unstable type of fracture. Current guidelines recommend intramedullary fixation, but there are still complications such as screw removal, hip varus, nail withdrawal, and nail fracture. The objective of this study was to use finite element analysis to compare the biomechanical properties of the novel proximal femoral bionic nail (PFBN), proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA), and combined compression interlocking intramedullary nail (InterTan) in the treatment of reverse obliquity intertrochanteric fractures (AO/OTA 31‐A3.1).

Methods

The three‐dimensional models of PFBN, PFNA, InterTan, and the A3.1 type intertrochanteric fracture model were established by using modeling software such as Mimics and Unigraphics. Different force loads were implemented using ANSYS software to compare finite element biomechanical parameters, such as maximum stress in the implant and maximum stress and displacement at the proximal femur.

Results

In this finite element study, we found that the distribution trend of maximum femoral stress and displacement in the femoral models of the three internal fixation groups was similar, but the maximum stress and maximum displacement were the lowest in the PFBN group, and the maximum stress of the internal fixation implant in the PFBN group was lower than that in the PFNA group and the InterTan group. The maximum stress and displacement of the femur in the PFNA group were 403.71 MPa and 14.274 mm, respectively, the maximum stress and displacement in the InterTan group were 362.72 MPa and 10.678 mm, and the maximum stress and displacement in the PFBN group were 186.23 MPa and 9.7068 mm. In the internal fixation implant model, the maximum stress of the PFNA group was 1445 MPa, the maximum stress of the InterTan group was 919.62 MPa, and the maximum stress of the PFBN group was the lowest, at 911.77 MPa.

Conclusion

Compared to PFNA and InterTan, PFBN designed by the “lever – reconstruction – balance” hypothesis can provide better biomechanical stability. It is a feasible choice for the future treatment of reverse intertrochanteric fracture, and additional clinical studies are required to substantiate its efficacy.
Exploring Individual Differences in Interoception Among Athletes Based on a Three‐Dimensional Construct of Interoception
Authors: Zeng Renjie , Shen Haoran , He Yaping , Ge Li‐Kun , Zhao Daliang , Zhu Shijie , Cai Li , Wang Yu , Mehling Wolf E. , Wei Gao‐Xia
Published: January 2025

Previous studies demonstrated that sensorimotor training enhances interoceptive abilities. Athletes are highly engaged in performance‐driven physical training and often incorporate—to varying degrees—sensorimotor training into their routines. In this study, we investigated the role of individual differences in interoception by comparing professional athletes of different performance levels and both sexes with recreational athletes and controls, applying a three‐dimensional model of interoception. Twenty‐six elite athletes, 52 recreational athletes, and 50 college students were recruited from national sports teams, local sports training centers, and local universities. We used the Multidimensional Assessment of Interoperative Awareness (MAIA), the Heartbeat Detecting Task (HDT), and a numeric rating scale based on HDT to measure interoceptive sensibility, accuracy, and awareness. At average, athletes showed significantly higher interoceptive sensibility, interoceptive accuracy, and interoceptive awareness than controls. Elite athletes reported significantly higher scores in all measures of interception compared to recreational athletes. Intriguingly, Non‐Distracting for interoceptive sensibility was positively correlated with the level of experience in elite athletes. Male athletes had better interoceptive sensibility and interoceptive awareness compared to female athletes in the elite group, while no significant sex differences were detected in the other two groups. These results indicated that level of sport experience and sex are associated with differences in interoceptive accuracy, interoceptive sensibility, and interoceptive awareness. It also suggests that interoceptive ability is possibly an experience‐dependent trait for athletic performance, which provides insight for improving sports performance through an approach of enhancing interoceptive ability.
Spatial Movement With Explicit Memory and Nonlocal Pregnancy Delay
Authors: Ding Xiaoxi , Shen Hao , Song Yongli
Published: January 2025

In depicting animal movement, besides considering spatial memory, the pregnancy period of the animals themselves should also be taken into account. This article proposes a novel single‐population model with discrete memory delay and nonlocal spatiotemporal gestation delay. Assuming the positive equilibrium is locally stable without spatiotemporal delay, the study investigates two types of directional movements using memory delay and gestation delay as control parameters. The research shows that for the positive memory‐based diffusion coefficient, the system destabilizes through homogeneous/nonhomogeneous Hopf bifurcations, but for the negative memory diffusion coefficient, the system not only undergo Hopf bifurcations but also becomes unstable through Turing bifurcations, and may even exhibit Turing–Hopf bifurcation. Finally, we use a diffusive logistic model with predation behavior as an example to numerically simulate the theoretical results and also discover stability switch phenomena.