bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The politics of climate denialism and the secondary denialism of economics
Authors: Cobb Clifford William
Published: December 2024

Primary climate‐change denialism rejects the idea that global warming is driven by human activity. This belief system now appeals to about one‐third of Americans. Having been influenced by a 1990s Exxon campaign to sow doubt that fossil fuels are responsible for global warming, Republicans are more likely than Democrats to be primary climate‐change deniers. But polls show that many US climate‐change accepters do not take it seriously enough to pay a nominal sum to prevent continued warming. This secondary denialism (accept the science, deny the urgency of action) may stem from the economic analysis of climate change. Discounting future damage and believing that economic growth will compensate for damage are two standard features of economic theory that justify treating climate issues with a degree of apathy—or at least as low priority. The work of Nobel‐Prize‐winning economist William Nordhaus provides almost as much cause for indifference among accepters as the climate denialists offer their followers. Scientists may view climate change with alarm, but policy‐makers mostly take their cues from economists. Nordhaus stated in a popular book in 2008 that his model demonstrates that 3.45°C warming is economically optimal. Not just tolerable, but optimal. His work is highly influential. Even though some economists have objected to the methods of economic analysis that understate the perils of climate change, their voices have had little influence on policy. Thus, seeming partisan differences about climate change have converged around go‐slow polices that manage climate issues as technical problems and that do not impose significant demands upon citizens or disrupt present economic arrangements.
Is there a minimum percentage of sarcomatoid component required to affect outcomes of localised renal cell carcinoma?
Authors: Soytas Mustafa , Dragomir Alice , Sawaya Ghady Bou‐Nehme , Hesswani Charles , Tanguay Maude , Finelli Antonio , Wood Lori , Rendon Ricardo , Bansal Rahul , Lalani Aly‐Khan , Heng Daniel Y. C. , Bhindi Bimal , Basappa Naveen S. , Dean Lucas , So Alan , Nayak Jasmir G. , Bjarnason Georg , Breau Rodney , Lavallee Luke , Lattouf Jean‐Baptiste , Pouliot Frederic , Bonert Michael , Tanguay Simon
Published: December 2024

Objective

To evaluate and compare the outcomes of patients with localised renal cell carcinoma (RCC) with and without sarcomatoid features and the impact of this on cancer recurrence and survival.

Material and Methods

The Canadian Kidney Cancer information system database was used to identify patients diagnosed with localised RCC between January 2011 and December 2022. Patients with pT1‐T3, n Nx‐N0N1, M0 stage and documented sarcomatoid status were included. Patients with sarcomatoid RCC were categorised according to the sarcomatoid component percentage (%Sarc). Inverse probability of treatment weighting scores were used to balance the groups. Cox proportional hazards models were used to assess the impact of sarcomatoid status and %Sarc on recurrence‐free and overall survival.

Results

A total of 6660 patients (201 with and 6459 without sarcomatoid features) with non‐metastatic RCC were included. %Sarc data were available in 155 patients, and the median value was 10%. The weighted analysis revealed that the presence of sarcomatoid features was associated with an increased risk of developing metastasis and increased risk of mortality compared to absence of sarcomatoid features. A %Sarc value >10 was associated with an increased risk of developing metastasis and of mortality compared to a %Sarc value ≤10.

Conclusions

Patients with a %Sarc >10 have an increased risk of recurrence and mortality. These patients may benefit from a more stringent follow‐up and %Sarc could represent an important criterion in the risk assessment for adjuvant therapy.
Genetic polymorphisms influencing antihypertensive drug responses
Authors: El Cheikh Jana , Hamed Fouad , Rifi Hana , Dakroub Ali H. , Eid Ali Hussein
Published: December 2024

Hypertension is a major contributor to cardiovascular disease and its associated morbidity and mortality. The low efficacy observed with some anti‐hypertensive therapies has been attributed partly to inter‐individual genetic variability. This paper reviews the major findings regarding these genetic variabilities that modulate responses to anti‐hypertensive therapies such as angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), diuretics, calcium channel blockers (CCBs) and β‐adrenoceptor blockers. The importance of studying these genetic polymorphisms stems from the goal to optimise anti‐hypertensive therapy for each individual patient, aiming for the highest efficacy and lowest risk of adverse effects. It is important to recognise that environmental and epigenetic factors can contribute to the observed variations in drug responses. Owing to the multigenic and multifactorial nature of drug responses, further research is crucial for translating these findings into clinical practice and the establishment of reliable recommendations.
ABC Grow Healthy Practices and Obesity‐Related Health Behaviours in Family Child Care Homes in South Carolina
Authors: Bucko Agnes G. , McIver Kerry L. , Zaltz Daniel A. , Liu Tiange , Neelon Brian , Benjamin‐Neelon Sara E. , Pate Russell R.
Published: December 2024

Background

Many states throughout the United States have introduced Quality Rating and Improvement Systems (QRIS) to address childhood obesity in preschool‐age children, but few have examined the impact of these standards in Family Child Care Homes (FCCHs). In South Carolina, the ABC Grow Healthy Practices are specific QRIS items that include diet, physical activity and sleep practices.

Methods

The purposes of this cross‐sectional study are to (1) describe physical activity levels, sleep duration and diet quality of children attending FCCHs in South Carolina and (2) compare physical activity levels, sleep duration and diet quality between children attending FCCHs that were enrolled versus not enrolled in the ABC programme. Means and percentages were used to summarize child‐ and parent‐level descriptive characteristics, physical activity levels, diet quality and sleep behaviours overall and by sex, race/ethnicity and ABC participation. t tests and chi‐square analyses were used to compare child‐ and parent‐level demographic characteristics as well as child‐level behaviours by ABC status.

Results

Results revealed low physical activity levels (11.2 ± 4.1 min/h of total physical activity and 5.5 ± 2.6 min/h of moderate and vigorous physical activity) and poor diet quality (Healthy Eating Index 56.0 ± 10.3) in all children. There were statistically significant differences in fat and protein consumption between ABC and non‐ABC FCCHs, as well as differences in demographic characteristics.

Conclusion

Future research is recommended to assess whether strengthening guidelines and improving implementation of obesity prevention standards will improve physical activity levels and diets of children attending FCCHs.
‘Who Listens to the Listener, Who Cares for the Carer?’ A Cross‐Sectional Study of Social Connectedness and Sleep Experiences of Young Siblings of Neurodivergent People
Authors: Pavlopoulou G. , Sim E. , Peter S. , Gardani M. , Beevers V. , Kassa C. , Sideropoulos V.
Published: December 2024

Background

A growing body of research postlockdown has established that loneliness and sleep problems are prominent in the life of all people and in particular in neurodivergent people and their parents/carers. The present study explores the experience of loneliness and sleep in siblings of neurodivergent young people.

Methods

Thirty‐eight (n = 38) young siblings (Mage = 16.41, 68.4% female) completed an online survey on sleep, loneliness and daytime functioning, answering a set of qualitative questions.

Results

Thematic analysis revealed that their sleep was affected by personal anxieties and neurodivergent siblings' parasomnias. Definition of loneliness included perceived lack of understanding and empathy in wider society, assuming a lonesome responsibility, growing up faster than peers and an emptiness within and without. Siblings provided brief contributions on how schools and the wider society can help them. Limitations include small sample size and an uneven representation of gender and disability groups in the sample. Recommendations for school and societal support are also discussed.

Conclusion

This preliminary exploration helped define their caring responsibilities, social connectedness and sleep needs. Our findings call for a holistic and personalised approach to healthcare, including social and psychological support, for the whole family including neurodivergent and neurotypical siblings.
ADHD (Attention‐Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) Symptoms Are Associated With Chronic Pain Interference: Results From a Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Brown Patrick C. M. , Feldstein Ewing Sarah W. , Wilson Anna C.
Published: December 2024

Background

Despite a known relationship between attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and chronic pain, the association between ADHD symptoms and pain interference has not been prospectively investigated.

Methods

Young adults were recruited following receipt of a prescription opioid from ambulatory surgery clinics, outpatient clinics and emergency departments as part of a larger study. Participants completed measures of ADHD symptoms, depression, pain catastrophizing, adverse childhood experiences and pain interference at enrolment and 6 months later. Logistic regression was used to examine the relationship between ADHD symptoms and covariates on moderate‐to‐severe pain interference at 6 months.

Results

Participants were 116 young adults who completed the baseline ADHD symptoms measure; 71 completed the 6‐month timepoint. Moderate‐to‐severe pain interference was present among 89.7% at baseline and 52.3% at 6 months. ADHD symptoms (OR [odds ratio] = 1.42, 95% CI [confidence interval] = 1.05–1.93), depression (OR = 1.08, 95% CI = 1.02–1.14) and pain catastrophizing (OR = 1.06, 95% CI = 1.01–1.12) were significantly associated with odds of moderate‐to‐severe pain interference at 6 months. In multivariable regression, ADHD symptoms (OR = 1.52, 95% CI = 1.09–2.12) and pain catastrophizing (OR = 1.07, 95% CI = 1.01–1.13) were significant predictors of moderate‐to‐severe pain interference at 6 months.

Conclusions

Participants with more ADHD symptoms were at greater risk for chronic pain interference. This is consistent with prior studies examining the role of attention in chronic pain. Individuals with ADHD symptoms may be at greater risk for chronic pain and future research should investigate tailored prevention and treatment approaches.
Developmental Characteristics of High‐Risk Infants According to the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development–Third Edition
Authors: Park Ju‐Young , Jung Nam‐Hae
Published: December 2024

Background

The present study aimed to determine the developmental characteristics of high‐risk infants with birth and perinatal risk factors according to gestational age using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development–Third Edition (Bayley‐III) and to assess the clinical utility of the scale.

Methods

This study included 100 high‐risk infants < 12 months' corrected age who presented to a hospital in Korea. Developmental levels of cognitive, language and motor scales were confirmed using Bayley‐III and analysed by dividing the infants according to gestational age as follows: high‐risk full‐term, moderate‐to‐late preterm and very preterm. Collected data were analysed using descriptive statistics, frequency analysis, analysis of variance and chi‐squared tests using SPSS version 24.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA).

Results

In terms of developmental characteristics according to gestational age, moderate‐to‐late preterm infants exhibited average levels in all cognitive, language and motor domains, while high‐risk full‐term infants and very preterm infants exhibited low average levels in all cognitive, language and motor domains. The three groups exhibited statistically significant differences in the language domain, and analysis of the relationship between gestational age and degree of developmental delay revealed significant differences, especially in expressive language.

Conclusions

This study is meaningful in that it analysed the developmental characteristics of high‐risk infants according to gestational age using Bayley‐III. The Bayley‐III test in high‐risk infants < 12 months of age was useful for screening developmental delay; however, there is a need for careful follow‐up and evaluation of the subsequent development process.
The Use of Fluorescent Markers to Detect and Delineate Head and Neck Cancer: A Scoping Review
Authors: Srinivasan Akash , Kaminskaite Viktorija , Winter Stuart C.
Published: December 2024

Objectives

The aim of surgery for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is to achieve clear resection margins, whilst preserving function and cosmesis. Fluorescent markers have demonstrated potential in the intraoperative visualisation and delineation of tumours, such as glioma, with consequent improvements in resection. The purpose of this scoping review was to identify and compare the fluorescent markers that have been used to detect and delineate HNSCC to date.

Methods

A literature search was performed using the Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL, ClinicalTrials.gov and ICTRP databases. Primary human studies published through September 2023 demonstrating the use of fluorescent markers to visualise HNSCC were selected and reviewed independently by two authors.

Results

The search strategy identified 5776 records. Two hundred and forty‐four full texts were reviewed, and sixty‐five eligible reports were included. The most used fluorescent markers in the included studies were indocyanine green (ICG) (n = 14), toluidine blue (n = 11), antibodies labelled with IRDye800CW (n = 10) and 5‐aminolevulinic acid (5‐ALA) (n = 8). Toluidine blue and ICG both have limited specificity, although novel targeted options derived from ICG may be more effective. 5‐ALA has been demonstrated as a topical marker and, recently, via enteral administration but it is associated with photosensitivity reactions. The fluorescently labelled antibodies cetuximab‐IRDye800CW and panitumumab‐IRDye800CW are promising options being investigated by ongoing trials.

Conclusion

Multiple safe fluorescent markers have emerged which may aid the surgical resection of HNSCC. Further research in larger cohorts is required to identify which marker should be considered gold standard.
Effects of land cover and protected areas on flying insect diversity
Authors: Sinclair James S. , Buchner Dominik , Gessner Mark O. , Müller Jörg , Pauls Steffen U. , Stoll Stefan , Welti Ellen A. R. , Bässler Claus , Buse Jörn , Dziock Frank , Enss Julian , Hörren Thomas , Künast Robert , Li Yuanheng , Marten Andreas , Morkel Carsten , Richter Ronny , Seibold Sebastian , Sorg Martin , Twietmeyer Sönke , Weis Dirk , Weisser Wolfgang , Wiggering Benedikt , Wilmking Martin , Zotz Gerhard , Frenzel Mark , Leese Florian , Haase Peter
Published: December 2024

Widespread insect losses are a critical global problem. Mitigating this problem requires identifying the principal drivers across different taxa and determining which insects are covered by protected areas. However, doing so is hindered by missing information on most species owing to extremely high insect diversity and difficulties in morphological identification. To address this knowledge gap, we used one of the most comprehensive insect DNA metabarcoding data sets assembled (encompassing 31,846 flying insect species) in which data were collected from a network of 75 Malaise traps distributed across Germany. Collection sites encompass gradients of land cover, weather, and climate, along with differences in site protection status, which allowed us to gain broader insights into how insects respond to these factors. We examined changes in total insect biomass, species richness, temporal turnover, and shifts in the composition of taxa, key functional groups (pollinators, threatened species, and invasive species), and feeding traits. Lower insect biomass generally equated to lower richness of all insects and higher temporal turnover, suggesting that biomass loss translates to biodiversity loss and less stable communities. Spatial variability in insect biomass and composition was primarily driven by land cover, rather than weather or climate change. As vegetation and land‐cover heterogeneity increased, insect biomass increased by 50% in 2019 and 56% in 2020 and total species richness by 58% and 33%, respectively. Similarly, areas with low‐vegetation habitats exhibited the highest richness of key taxa, including pollinators and threatened species, and the widest variety of feeding traits. However, these habitats tended to be less protected despite their higher diversity. Our results highlight the value of heterogeneous low vegetation for promoting overall insect biomass and diversity and that better protection of insects requires improved protection and management of unforested areas, where many biodiversity hotspots and key taxa occur.
Refraining from exploiting disaster‐hit communities, as an emerging principle of corporate social responsibility
Authors: Radavoi Ciprian N. , He Lingling
Published: December 2024

Disasters are more destructive and frequent in the age of climate change, overpopulation, and neoliberal globalisation. While the literature on disaster prevention and management proliferates, the role of for‐profit corporations has only recently started to be examined, usually through the lens of corporate social responsibility (CSR)—the expectation that business will consider social and environmental interests in its operations, in addition to profit. There is lately much academic creativity in the CSR space pertaining to why and how large corporations should contribute to disaster recovery, but a conceptual red thread is missing. This paper proposes that the unifying concept is the CSR principle of refraining from exploiting disaster‐hit communities. Indeed, CSR principles evolve in time, reflecting contemporary societal priorities. In a contractarian perspective on CSR, a rational community would nowadays have solid reasons to expect, in its social contract with business, the latter's commitment to decency when the former is devastated by earthquakes, pandemics, wars, and the like.
PC‐Based User Continuous Authentication in the Artificial Intelligence Method and System Using the User's Finger Stroke Characteristics
Authors: Lee Heewoong , Lee Deok Gyu , Nam Kihyo , Jeong Mun‐Kweon
Published: December 2024

Biometric technology, which performs continuous authentication based on user behaviour, has been developed in various ways depending on the type of device, input device, and sensor. Research on continuous authentication technology in PC‐based systems with few sensors installed is based on data from physical devices that extract and analyse features from keyboard and mouse input patterns. Among these, previous studies on continuous authentication through keyboard input performed continuous authentication using the key hold delay time that occurs when one key is pressed, the key interval delay time that occurs due to the interaction between fingers, and the key press delay time. However, the keyboard‐based continuous authentication model has limitations in increasing accuracy due to a small number of features. Therefore, in this paper, when a user inputs a sentence using a QWERTY keyboard in a PC system, the function is subdivided by reflecting the characteristics of each finger and used for continuous authentication. The features extracted by reflecting the characteristics of the finger were subdivided into a total of 151 latencies, and Support Vector Data Description (SVDD), decision tree and CNN were used as continuous authentication models. Experimental data was collected through the user's input of randomly displayed sentences, and features were created based on this. User keystroke behaviour was used to validate the continuous authentication in the artificial intelligence model. Validation metrics included thresholds for classification accuracy (ACC), ROC curves, false rejection rate (FRR), equal error rate (EER), and false acceptance rate (FAR). As a result of the experiment, it was found that continuous authentication including the user's finger input pattern was superior to the existing method.
Properties of Biofilm Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Communities in a Representative Hypereutrophic Urban River
Authors: Lv Yi , Wang Siyu , Ni Xiaobo , Yang Xu , Chen Yu , Zhou Xinting , Dahlgren Randy A. , Cai Xianlei
Published: December 2024

Biofilms play an important role in nutrient and food web dynamics of shallow aquatic ecosystems. Multiple prokaryotic and eukaryotic microorganisms within biofilms interact with each other to shape the community structure and their functional attributes. However, there is no clear understanding of varied patterns of biofilm prokaryotic versus eukaryotic microbial abundances, diversities and communities, which limit our understanding of how biofilm communities and functions in hypereutrophic urban river ecosystems are changing.

To elucidate the properties of biofilm communities and controls on biofilm communities in a hypereutrophic urban river, we conducted a one‐year study to investigate the seasonal and water‐depth variations on the abundance/biomass, diversity and structure of biofilm prokaryotic and eukaryotic communities. The structure and dynamics of biofilm prokaryotic and eukaryotic communities were determined by high‐throughput sequencing based on the 16S and 18S rRNA gene.

Sequencing revealed that Proteobacteria, Bacteroidota and Cyanobacteria were the three dominant phyla in biofilm prokaryotic communities, and Rotifera, Chlorophyta, Annelida and Bacillariophyta were the four dominant phyla in biofilm eukaryotic communities. Biofilm bacterial abundance depended mainly on the water temperature, whereas biofilm algal biomass correlated with rotifer grazing and light levels. Prokaryotic communities had higher species richness and diversity than eukaryotic communities. Species richness and diversity displayed significant seasonal variations with minima for prokaryotic communities in winter and eukaryotic communities in summer, which were linked to water temperature and rotifer grazing, respectively. Variations in biofilm prokaryotic and eukaryotic community composition were mainly related to ammonia concentration and water temperature, respectively. The co‐occurrence network analysis suggested that rotifer grazing could considerably decrease the complexity of the biofilm network in summer, and the algal groups, especially for Chlorophyta and Bacillariophyta, were the key to the formation of stable biofilm networks.

There were significant differences in seasonal and water‐depth heterogeneity of biofilm prokaryotic and eukaryotic community composition. Our findings indicate that variations in water temperature, light level, rotifer grazing and nutrients (especially ammonia) appreciably contribute to changes in the abundance, diversity and composition of biofilm prokaryotic versus eukaryotic communities in the hypereutrophic urban river.

These findings increase our understanding of biofilm community characteristics in hypereutrophic urban rivers and provide insights for water pollution remediation strategies.
Rapid Adaption but Genetic Diversity Loss of a Globally Distributed Diatom in the Warmer Ocean
Authors: Cheng Luman , Xu Xiuming , Wang Minghua , Wang Da‐Zhi
Published: December 2024

Studies have demonstrated that marine phytoplankton can adapt to the warmer environment. However, the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. Here, we quantified the capacity of a globally distributed marine diatom Skeletonema dohrnii, for rapid evolution under the moderate (24°C) and severe (28°C) warming scenarios. Whole‐genome resequencing analysis revealed that the evolutionary adaptation of S. dohrnii to moderate warming was slow (i.e., 700 generations), whereas it was rapid (i.e., 300 generations) under severe warming but suffered a substantial loss of genetic diversity within the population. Genes associated with energy production and lipid metabolism evolved rapidly, particularly under severe warming, suggesting their vital roles in thermal adaptation. Proteomic results also showed the enhanced expression of proteins involved in energy production and lipid metabolism, especially under severe warming. Furthermore, particulate organic carbon and nitrogen production was greatly enhanced in the moderate warming‐selected population but increased insignificantly in the severe warming‐selected population, indicating more rapid adaptation driven by severe warming. Our results provide molecular insights into the rapid but limited evolution of thermal adaptation in marine diatoms and highlight energy production and lipid metabolism as the most important adaptive strategy. Future warming will affect genetic diversity and population dynamics of diatoms in the ocean.
Comparing the accuracy and treatment time of a robotic and dynamic navigation system in osteotomy and root‐end resection: An in vitro study
Authors: Liu Chen , Wang Xin , Liu Yuchen , Ma Dan , Wu Zhonghong , Wang Hanguo , Bai Shizhu , Zhao Yimin
Published: December 2024

Aim

To compare the accuracy and treatment time of a robotic system (RS) and a dynamic navigation system (DNS) in osteotomy and root‐end resection in an in vitro study.

Methodology

In this study, four identical mandibular models were created using three‐dimensional (3D) printing, each model including 18 teeth. In the surgical procedures, teeth #35, #33, #32, #42, #43 and #45, along with the mesiobuccal roots of teeth #36 and #46, were specifically selected for operation on each model. Cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) and intraoral scans were performed on all models. DentalNavi software was used to plan a drilling path and depth as well as design surgical accessories. In the RS, osteotomy and root‐end resection were performed with robotic assistance, whereas in the DNS, these procedures were performed using dynamic navigation. Post‐operative CBCT scans were obtained. Global platform deviation, global apex deviation, angular deflection, and time were compared to evaluate the accuracy and treatment time of the surgeries. The treatment time was defined as the registration time and drilling time. Statistical analyses were performed using the Shapiro–Wilk and independent sample t‐test.

Results

The global platform deviation, global apex deviation and angular deflection in the RS group were significantly smaller than those in the DNS group (p <.05). The registration time in the RS group was significantly longer than that in the DNS group (p <.001), whereas the drilling time was significantly shorter (p <.001). The overall surgical time was significantly longer in the RS group than in the DNS group (p <.001). Subgroup accuracy analysis revealed that in both the anterior and posterior tooth regions, the RS group exhibited significantly smaller apical and angular deviations than the DNS group (p <.001). Additionally, in both the anterior and posterior tooth subgroups, the total time for the DNS group was significantly shorter than that for the RS group in the anterior tooth area (p <.01).

Conclusions

RS showed higher accuracy and shorter drilling time in osteotomy and root‐end resection compared to DNS. The RS holds promise as a reliable technological advancement in endodontic microsurgery. However, future endeavours should prioritize the reduction in registration time.
Micro‐computed tomographic evaluation of dentinal microcracks in response to progressive taper enlargement in root canals of maxillary molars
Authors: de Lima Carolina Oliveira , de Montan Julia Brito de Moura , Barbosa Ana Flávia Almeida , Antunes Bernardo Rempto , Lacerda Mariane Floriano Lopes Santos , Sassone Luciana Moura , Versiani Marco Aurélio , Silva Emmanuel João Nogueira Leal
Published: December 2024

Aim

To investigate the development of dentinal microcracks resulting from the progressive enlargement of the buccal canals of maxillary molars with and without the MB2 canal employing instruments with the same tip and four different tapers.

Methodology

Twenty maxillary molars with (n = 10) and without (n = 10) the MB2 canal underwent micro‐CT scanning. Their mesiobuccal and distobuccal canals were sequentially enlarged using nickel–titanium instruments with sizes 25/.03, 25/.05, 25/.06 and 25/.08v. Subsequent scans were conducted after each canal enlargement. The preoperative scans were coregistered with their respective datasets, and the cross‐sectional images were carefully examined to identify dentinal defects. This process, conducted twice at two‐week intervals, involved two examiners. Intra‐ and inter‐examiner calibrations were validated using the Kappa index. The incidence of microcracks was reported as a percentage frequency.

Results

The intra‐ and inter‐examiner Kappa values were 0.85 and 0.88, respectively, indicating excellent agreement. Dentinal microcracks were detected in 1206 out of 42 975 cross‐sectional image slices (2.8%). Molars with MB2 canal exhibited more slices (4.5%) than teeth without MB2 (0.9%). Every dentinal microcrack observed in the images after root canal preparation was already present in the corresponding images taken before root canal preparation.

Conclusion

The progressive enlargement of root canals using instruments with different tapers did not induce the formation of new dentinal microcracks in maxillary molars, regardless of the presence of the MB2 canal.
Influence of high‐iron bauxite on phase composition, microstructure, and properties of bauxite‐based homogenized grogs
Authors: Ma Qianli , Liang Yanchen , Yu Renhong , Zang Yunfei , Liu Yuchi , Wang Minghao , Ma Huaiqi , Yu Xiaorui
Published: December 2024

Investigation on the occurrence state of Fe2O3 in bauxite and its effect on the bauxite‐based homogenized grogs (BHG) is crucial for the utilization of high‐iron bauxite resources. BHG with different Fe2O3 contents incorporated in the form of high‐iron bauxite was prepared by maintaining the Al2O3 content around 82%. The effect of high‐iron bauxite addition (0, 25, 50 75, 100 wt.%) on the phase composition and microstructure evolution was studied using X‐ray diffractometer, scanning electron microscope, and Factsage software. The results show that part of the Fe2O3 in BHG is dissolved into crystalline phases, while the other part is present as a glass phase. The addition of high‐iron bauxite, coupled with a reduction in the SiO2 content, results in a rise in the corundum content within BHG from 55.0% to 93.6% and a decrease in the mullite content from 44.0% to 2.8%. This change results in a decline in the refractoriness under load of T0.6, dropping from 1593.5°C in the sample without high‐iron bauxite to 1430.7°C in the sample with 100% high‐iron bauxite addition. The microstructure of BHG evolves from the interconnected network of corundum and mullite phases to the structure of corundum bonded by the glass phase.
Co‐Designing Case Scenarios and Survey Strategies to Examine the Classification and Reporting of Restrictive Care Practices in Adult Mental Health Inpatient Settings: Perspectives From International Stakeholders
Authors: Belayneh Zelalem , Lee Den‐Ching A. , Haines Terry P. , Aluh Deborah Oyine , Onu Justus Uchenna , Newton‐Howes Giles , Masters Kim , Kohn Yoav , Sin Jacqueline , Goulet Marie‐Hélène , Husum Tonje Lossius , Jelastopulu Eleni , Bakola Maria , Opgenhaffen Tim , Gowda Guru S. , Mekuriaw Birhanie , De Cuyper Kathleen , Muir‐Cochrane Eimear , Canteloupe Yana , Diviney Emer , Staggs Vincent S. , Petrakis Melissa
Published: December 2024

There is a global initiative to reduce the use of restrictive care practices in mental health settings. Variations in the reported rates across regions complicate the understanding of their use and tracking trends over time. However, it remains unclear whether these discrepancies reflect real differences in the implementation of these practices or are sourced from inconsistencies in incident classification and reporting methods. This study employed a co‐design approach to identify contexts that would influence the classification and reporting of restrictive care practices. The research involved 29 mental health stakeholders, including 22 professional experts from 13 countries across Europe, Africa, North America, Asia and Australasia and seven service users and family carers from Australia. Recruitment was conducted through email invitations, snowball sampling and social media outreach. Six web‐based panel meetings, each lasting 90–120 minnutes were held. These discussions focused on exploring various contexts that might lead to uncertainty among professionals when classifying and reporting actions whether or not as restrictive care practices. A final list of 23 contexts was identified and considered for the development of 81 case scenario items. Finally, all the 29 panel members selected 44 from 81 case scenarios for inclusion in an upcoming international survey to examine variations in the classification and reporting of restrictive care practices. The findings from this co‐design work emphasise the involvement of a wide range of factors and contexts in the classification and reporting of restrictive care practices that may contribute to the observed variations in the in the reported rates of these practices. The case scenarios developed in this study will support future research and serve educational purposes, illustrating real‐life situations in the mental healthcare context.
A Glimmer of Hope: The Impact of the Recovery College Bern on Personal Recovery, Well‐Being and Self‐Stigmatisation—A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Ambord Nora , Burr Christian , Zuaboni Gianfranco
Published: December 2024

Recovery Colleges are mental health education centres co‐produced by experts with lived experience with mental health problems and mental health professionals. The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of a Recovery College in Switzerland on its students' mental health measured through personal recovery, well‐being and self‐stigmatisation in a mixed methods approach following the MMARS guideline. Three standardised questionnaires ‘Questionnaire about the Process of Recovery’, ‘WHO‐5 Well‐Being Index’ and ‘Self‐Stigma of Mental Illness Scale Short Form’ were completed by 92 participants as part of a pre‐post‐evaluation while two focus groups (n = 10) provided further explanations regarding impacts on the three topics. Statistical analyses include paired sample t‐test or Wilcoxon signed rank tests for pre‐post‐test comparisons as well as Cohen's d to determine effect sizes. For all three questionnaires, significant improvement was shown in the desired direction with low to medium effect sizes. A higher number of courses attended did not result in higher scores in the outcome measurements. The qualitative analysis confirmed these results by providing insights of specific aspects of these positive impacts. These include increased social inclusion, improvement in attitudes towards one's life and identity, increased engagement in hobbies and healthy behaviours, positive impacts on well‐being and decreased self‐stigmatisation. The findings indicate that Recovery Colleges should be made available continuously and further developed also in other regions of Switzerland. Similar projects require continuous evaluation in early development to ensure effectiveness and improve quality.
Gender, social protection systems and street‐level bureaucrats
Authors: Cookson Tara Patricia , Barrantes Alexandra
Published: December 2024

Street‐level bureaucrats are the “human face” of social protection delivery systems around the world. To date, most social protection literature approaches questions of gender with respect to policy and programme design and expected and unexpected outcomes. Mounting interest in gender‐responsive and rights‐based social protection systems, however, additionally begs a focus on the gendered individuals who mediate the relationship between citizens and these systems, representing the State as duty bearer of realizing the right to social protection. Much of the existing work on street‐level bureaucrats (SLBs) focuses on their use of discretion in frontline work and how this shapes beneficiary experiences. This article adapts and extends Durose and Lowndes' (2024) framework for understanding gender and SLB discretion: 1) as shaped by the gendered laws, policies and guidance of institutions where SLBs work, 2) as reflective of SLBs as gendered actors, and 3) as having gendered effects on policy beneficiaries. While their framework was developed in a high‐income context and to understand a different sector (policing), these three analytical propositions hold for SLBs in social protection systems. Yet, we suggest that understanding the role of SLBs in social protection systems requires two additional considerations from a human rights perspective: 4) discretion as shaped by the gendered social, political and economic contexts in which SLBs operate and social protection systems exist, and 5) moving beyond discretion, SLBs as rights‐holders themselves, of the right to social security and the right to decent work. The article develops this framework in conversation with scholarship on social protection systems in the broad range of contexts in which they operate. In doing so, the article offers an analytical contribution to the emerging literature on gender‐responsive social protection systems from a “frontline delivery” and human rights perspective, including their relation to Sustainable Development Goals 5 – gender equality – and 1.3 – social protection systems for all.
Enhancing gender‐responsive social protection among informal and traditionally uncovered workers in sub‐Saharan Africa: An assessment of access to maternity protection
Authors: Mokomane Zitha , Grzesik‐Mourad Laurel , Heymann Jody
Published: December 2024

A wide and established body of research evidence has consistently shown how the effective provision of social protection benefits and the promotion of gender equality are among the key tools for addressing shocks, vulnerability and poverty. It is largely to this end that these ideals implicitly feature throughout the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda and explicitly in two Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The first is SDG 1 on poverty reduction, target 1.3 of which calls for the implementation of nationally appropriate social protection systems, measures and floors for all. The second is SDG 5, which aims to achieve gender equality and empowerment for all women and girls. Despite this, women across the world continue to receive contributory social security benefits that are notably lower than those of men. There is, therefore, a need for a critical and deeper understanding of policy, legislative and programmatic factors that underlie gender gaps in social protection provision. To contribute to knowledge in this regard, and while not aiming to address the intractable challenge of labour market formalization, this article draws on qualitative data from case studies conducted in 2022 among informal economy and other traditionally unprotected workers in three countries in sub‐Saharan Africa (Mozambique, United Republic of Tanzania, and Togo), the region with the highest proportion of informal workers. The aim was to explore the extent to which these workers, who are predominantly women, have access to the various elements of maternity protection. The results showed the extent to which explicit legislative and policy frameworks as well as knowledge and service context often limit women’s access to maternity protection. The article draws on the key findings to provide strategic recommendations for designing and effectively implementing more gender‐responsive social protection benefits in developing economy contexts.
Gender gaps in perceptions of social protection: Insights from the OECD Risks that Matter Survey
Authors: Frey Valerie , Thomas Jasmin , Alajääskö Lyydia
Published: December 2024

Reflecting their weaker labour force attachment and lower earnings, women consistently report feeling greater economic insecurity than men across the Member countries of the Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development (OECD). Similar gender gaps emerge in perceptions of social protection systems: women are far less confident than men in their ability to access benefits and services and receive adequate income support when they need it, both in working age and old age. Results from the cross‐national OECD Risks that Matter (RTM) Survey illustrate that, on average, across countries, about half of women feel that they could not easily receive public benefits if they needed them, compared to 43 per cent of men. This perceived inaccessibility likely reflects gender gaps in perceived “hassle costs” associated with social programme applications and the intra‐household allocations of administrative burden, but it also likely reflects women’s lower social security contributions. This article illuminates gender gaps in the design of social programmes and suggests ways by which governments can better mainstream gender when improving the accessibility and adequacy of social protection.
Tranexamic Acid With Acid Suppression Versus Acid Suppression Alone as Therapy for Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding: A Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Kan Sheau‐Wen , Tan Yen Pin , Tay Ming Zhe , Chi Mei‐Ju
Published: December 2024

Background

Studies have reported the benefits of tranexamic acid (TXA) in controlling bleeding across various conditions. However, the effect of TXA in upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) remains controversial, and its therapeutic impact when combined with acid suppression, particularly proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which are considered first‐line therapy for bleeding peptic ulcers, has not been reported.

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar from January 1987 to June 2024 using predefined keywords to identify RCTs meeting our inclusion criteria, including details of TXA dosage, route of administration, and choice of acid suppressants. Data from selected trials were extracted, and a meta‐analysis was performed using random‐effects modeling.

Results

Six trials with 709 participants were included. Baseline patient characteristics in the selected trials were balanced. The rebleeding rate, mortality, need for blood transfusion, units of blood transfused, and need for salvage therapy were compared. The TXA with acid suppression group significantly reduced the risk of rebleeding (RR: 0.63, 95% CI: 0.41–0.96), units of blood transfused (mean difference: −1.08, 95% CI: −1.44 to −0.71), and the need for salvage therapy (RR: 0.28, 95% CI: 0.12–0.64). No significant difference was observed in mortality rate (RR: 0.74) and need for blood transfusion (RR: 1.01) between the two groups, but outcomes favored the TXA and acid suppression group.

Conclusions

We suggest combining TXA with acid suppression as a first‐line therapy for UGIB patients. Further trials should be conducted to determine the optimal dose and route of TXA administration for better care.
Implementing INTERACT in Veterans Health Administration Community Living Centers: A pragmatic randomized trial
Authors: Mor Vincent , Saliba Debra , Intrator Orna , Gutman Roee , Mochel Amy L. , Baumann Margaret (Peg) , Boxer Rebecca , D'Adamo Heather , Gotanda Hiroshi , House Kim W. , Joshi Seema , Sohn Linda , Tayade Arti , Hilliard Kisa A. , Tubbesing Sarah , Phibbs Ciaran S. , Ouslander Joseph G.
Published: December 2024

Background

Hospital transfers from VA Community Living Centers (CLCs) are common. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of introducing the Intervention to Reduce Acute Care Transfers (INTERACT) program into VA CLCs.

Methods

Cluster randomized trial involving 16 pair‐matched VA CLCs.

Interventions

Intervention CLC nursing staff were trained in the use of INTERACT tools designed to identify early signs of a clinical change in condition and improve communication and documentation. One tool was embedded into the VA Electronic Medical Record. Intervention staff were supported by bi‐weekly calls over 18 months to reinforce INTERACT tool use.

Measurements

The primary outcome for intent‐to‐treat analyses was the rate of all‐cause hospitalizations per 1000 person days. Secondary outcomes, assessed through structured record reviews and algorithms, were intervention CLCs change in 1) potentially inappropriate transfer decisions and 2) potentially preventable transfers. CLC staff implementation and engagement in INTERACT were documented.

Results

Only five of the eight intervention CLCs substantially engaged in the intervention. Using a negative‐binomial regression with random effects, adjusting for month, intervention, and the interaction of time and the intervention, we observed no statistically significant difference between intervention and control facilities in all‐cause hospitalizations. This was confirmed with matched resident‐level, as‐treated, analyses among residents in the five engaged CLCs and their matched controls. Structured implicit review of intervention CLC's medical records revealed low rates of inappropriate transfer decisions both before and after the intervention.

Conclusions

Introducing INTERACT into volunteer VA CLCs did not reduce the rates of all‐cause hospitalizations. In both the pre‐ and post‐intervention periods, all‐cause hospitalization rates were relatively higher, and inappropriate transfers lower in VA CLCs than commonly observed in community NHs. Low rates of potentially inappropriate transfers and higher nurse and physician staffing in CLCs may explain why INTERACT was not implemented as fully as planned.
Identification of new salicylic acid signaling regulators for root development and microbiota composition in plants
Authors: Jia Xianqing , Xu Zhuang , Xu Lei , Frene Juan P. , Gonin Mathieu , Wang Long , Yu Jiahong , Castrillo Gabriel , Yi Keke
Published: December 2024

Besides playing a crucial role in plant immunity via the nonexpressor of pathogenesis‐related (NPR) proteins, increasing evidence shows that salicylic acid (SA) can also regulate plant root growth. However, the transcriptional regulatory network controlling this SA response in plant roots is still unclear. Here, we found that NPR1 and WRKY45, the central regulators of SA response in rice leaves, control only a reduced sector of the root SA signaling network. We demonstrated that SA attenuates root growth via a novel NPR1/WRKY45‐independent pathway. Furthermore, using regulatory network analysis and mutant characterization, we identified a set of new NPR1/WRKY45‐independent regulators that conservedly modulate the root development and root‐associated microbiota composition in both Oryza sativa (monocot) and Arabidopsis thaliana (dicot) in response to SA. Our results established the SA signaling as a central element regulating plant root functions under ecologically relevant conditions. These results provide new insights to understand how regulatory networks control plant responses to abiotic and biotic stresses.