bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Safety and immunogenicity of COReNAPCIN®, a SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine; a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 1 clinical trial
Authors: Salehi Mohammadreza , Darazam Ilad Alavi , Nematollahi Alireza , Alimohammadi Masoumeh , Pouya Sedigheh , Alimohammadi Reza , Khajavirad Nasim , Porgoo Meysam , Sedghi Mosslim , Sepahi Mohammad Mahdi , Azimi Maryam , Hosseini Hamed , Hashemi Seyed Mahmoud , Dehghanizadeh Somaye , Khoddami Vahid
Published: November 2023

The repeated COVID-19 outbreaks, despite global vaccination, highlights the need for booster doses. Here, we present the outcomes, up until day 90 post vaccination, of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 1 clinical trial of the mRNA-based vaccine candidate; COReNAPCIN®, as a booster dose in adults aged 18-50 who had previously received three doses of inactivated vaccines. In the study, 30 participants randomly (2:2:1) received 25 μg, or 50 μg of COReNAPCIN®, or placebo. The results indicated that COReNAPCIN®was well tolerated in vaccinated individuals in both groups with no life-threatening or other serious adverse events. The most noticeable solicited adverse events were pain at the site of injection, fatigue and myalgia. Regarding the immunogenicity, given the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies due to the vaccination history for all, and previous SARS-CoV-2 infection for some participants, the recipients of COReNAPCIN®, two weeks post vaccination, showed significant fold increases in the level of anti-RBD (6.6 and 8.1 folds) or anti-spike (11.5 and 21.7 folds), and potent neutralizing antibodies (10.2 and 8.4 folds) in 25 and 50 μg groups, respectively, while no meaningful changes were observed in the placebo group. Additionally, the significant increase in the spike-specific IFN-γ T-cell response upon vaccination, underscores the activation of cellular immunity. Altogether, the favorable safety, tolerability, and immunogenicity profile of COReNAPCIN®support its further clinical development.

Trial registration number

IRCT20230131057293N1
Single-molecule analysis of purified proteins and nuclear extracts: insights from 8-oxoguanine glycosylase 1
Authors: Schaich Matthew A. , Weaver Tyler M. , Roginskaya Vera , Freudenthal Bret D. , Van Houten Bennett
Published: November 2023

By observing one molecule at a time, single-molecule studies can offer detailed insights about biomolecular processes including on rates, off rates, and diffusivity of molecules on strands of DNA. A recent technological advance (Single-molecule Analysis of DNA-binding proteins from Nuclear Extracts, SMADNE) has lowered the barrier to entry for single-molecule studies, and single-molecule dynamics can now be determined directly out of nuclear extracts, providing information in an intermediate environment between purified proteins in isolation and the heterogeneity of a nucleus. To compare and contrast the single-molecule DNA binding dynamics in nuclear extracts versus purified proteins, combined optical tweezers and fluorescence microscopy experiments were performed with purified GFP-tagged 8-oxoguanine glycosylase 1 (OGG1), purified GFP-OGG1 spiked into nuclear extracts, and nuclear extracts from human cells overexpressing GFP-OGG1. We observed differences in undamaged DNA binding during DNA damage search in each of the three conditions. Purified GFP-OGG1 engaged undamaged DNA for a weighted average lifetime of 5.7 s and 21% of these events underwent DNA diffusion after binding. However, unlike other glycosylases studied by SMADNE, OGG1 does not bind non-damaged DNA efficiently in nuclear extracts. In contrast, GFP-OGG1 binding dynamics on DNA substrates containing oxidative damage were relatively similar in all three conditions, with the weighted average binding lifetimes varying from 2.2 s in nuclear extracts to 7.8 s with purified GFP-OGG1 in isolation. Finally, we compared the purified protein and nuclear extract approaches for a catalytically dead OGG1 variant (GFP-OGG1-K249Q). This variant greatly increased the binding lifetime for oxidative DNA damage, with the weighted average lifetime for GFP-OGG1-249Q in nuclear extracts at 15.4 s vs 10.7 s for the purified protein. SMADNE will provide a new window of observation into the behavior of nucleic acid binding proteins only accessible by biophysicists trained in protein purification and protein labeling.
Adapting to climate change: substitution effect of water on residential electricity consumption
Authors: Zhang Fan , Cao Ming
Published: November 2023

Purpose

As climate change impacts residential life, people typically use heating or cooling appliances to deal with varying outside temperatures, bringing extra electricity demand and living costs. Water is more cost-effective than electricity and could provide the same body utility, which may be an alternative choice to smooth electricity consumption fluctuation and provide living cost incentives. Therefore, this study aims to identify the substitute effect of water on the relationship between climate change and residential electricity consumption.

Design/methodology/approach

This study identifies the substitute effect of water and potential heterogeneity using panel data from 295 cities in China over the period 2004–2019. The quantile regression and the partially linear functional coefficient model in this study could reduce the risks of model misspecification and enable detailed identification of the substitution mechanism, which is in line with reality and precisely determines the heterogeneity at different consumption levels.

Findings

The results indicate that residential water consumption can weaken the impact of cooling demand on residential electricity consumption, especially in low-income regions. Moreover, residents exhibited adaptive asymmetric behaviors. As the electricity consumption level increased, the substitute effects gradually get strong. The substitute effects gradually strengthened when residential water consumption per capita exceeds 16.44 tons as the meeting of the basic life guarantee.

Originality/value

This study identifies the substitution role of water and heterogeneous behaviors in the residential sector in China. These findings augment the existing literature and could aid policymakers, investors and residents regarding climate issues, risk management and budget management.
Design and analysis of combined standard ferrofluid and centrifugal seals
Authors: Szczęch Marcin , Raj Kuldip
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Ferrofluid seals are known for their low friction torque and high tightness. However, they have some limitation due to the allowable rotational speed. The work presented here analyzes the performance of newly designed seals which are a combination of a ferrofluid and a centrifugal seal. The new seals can operate at high speeds. The purpose of this study is to theoretically predict the performance of combined seals.

Design/methodology/approach

Three seals were designed and selected for analysis. A version of the seals with a nonmagnetic insert is also considered, the purpose of which is to facilitate the installation and return of ferrofluid during low rotational speeds. The analyses were based on combining the results of numerical simulation of magnetic field distribution with mathematical models.

Findings

A combination of ferrofluid sealing and centrifugal sealing is possible. Analyses showed that the combined seal could hold a minimum pressure of 190 kPa in the velocity range of 0–100 m/s. The problem with this type of seal is the temperature.

Originality/value

New seal designs are presented. Key parameters that affect the seal operation are discussed. A methodology that can be used in the design of such seals is presented.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-07-2023-0221/.
Behavioural finance: the decoy effect on stock investment decisions
Authors: Okumura Bruno Uekane , Pimenta Júnior Tabajara , Maemura Márcia Mitie Durante , Gaio Luiz Eduardo , Gatsios Rafael Confetti
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the occurrence of the decoy effect in stock investment decisions based on fundamental analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the decoy effect was investigated by applying two questionnaires, one of them with the presence of a decoy alternative, to a set of 224 respondents with knowledge of business fundamentals, simulating investment decisions in stocks of companies listed on the Brazilian Stock Exchange. The data analysis was performed using the Fisher's exact test, Student's t-test and ANOVA. The research also aimed to detect a potential relationship between the variables gender, age, degree and professional experience with the type of decision made.

Findings

The results pointed to the occurrence of the decoy effect when analysing the general response data. However, such evidence was not confirmed when the sample was analysed by classes (gender, course, age and professional experience). There is no statistical evidence that the decoy effect influences classes.

Originality/value

The recent decoy effect literature is little explored in investment decision-making. This study is unique in examining the decoy effect in investment decisions in the Brazilian context.
Economic integration and stock market linkages: evidence from South Africa and BRIC
Authors: Gopane Thabo J.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study examines the impact of regional economic integration (REI) on stock market linkages in the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) economic bloc. In this type of study, the BRICS framework is an appealing empirical case, given its uncommon characteristics. For example, BRICS member states come from remote geographic locations (Africa, Asia, Europe and South America) and have contrasting socioeconomic profiles.

Design/methodology/approach

An empirical design is framed from the perspective of bilateral trade between South Africa and BRIC. The author accepts trade intensity as a proxy of regional economic integration and then examines the resulting effect on the stock market co-movement within BRIC. The study applies a two-step econometric procedure of the BEKK-MGARCH and panel data models.

Findings

Overall, bilateral trade, as a proxy of economic inwctegration, is associated with an increase in stock market integration. This positive relationship is particularly observed during episodes of surplus trade, and more interestingly, was initiated three years after BRICS’ existence and continues to grow at an increasing rate.

Practical implications

The study outcome should benefit international trade practitioners and global investors interested in portfolio diversification or concerned with risk spillovers.

Originality/value

First, notwithstanding South Africa's significant economic presence in the African continent, to the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first study to empirically evaluate the BRICS economic integration on their stock market linkages from the perspective of South Africa. The value of this contribution is that further work may investigate the bidirectional spillover impact conveyed by South Africa's trade interactions within the juxtaposition of Africa and BRICS economies. Second, given that research on REI and stock market integration has historically concentrated on mature regional blocs of Europe, Asia, South and North America, the current study advances knowledge while correcting the prevailing literature imbalance.
Community support and benefits, culture and hedonism as moderators in the relationship between brand heritage, tourist satisfaction and revisit intention
Authors: Raja Sathish , Soundararajan Vasanthi , Parayitam Satyanarayana
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This research explores the antecedents of tourist satisfaction and revisit intention, especially in light of the post-pandemic environment that pushed tourism to the lowest level in the present decade. A comprehensive conceptual model based on the brand equity theory (BET) is developed, and interrelationships between brand heritage, community support and benefits, hedonism, culture, tourist satisfaction and revisit intention.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected from 670 tourists visiting one of the heritage destinations in southern India (Kanchipuram). After checking the psychometric properties of the survey instrument, the hypotheses were tested using path analysis and Hayes's PROCESS macros.

Findings

The results indicate that heritage brand of destination sites is positively associated with (1) tourist satisfaction and (2) tourist revisit intention. The findings also support the positive effect of attractiveness of products is positively related to tourist satisfaction, which in turn, is a significant predictor of tourist revisit intention. The findings also support that community support benefits moderating the relationship between heritage brand and attractiveness of products in heritage destinations tourist satisfaction.

Practical implications

This study has several implications for practicing managers engaged in maintaining heritage destinations. As this research highlights the importance of heritage brands of destinations in influencing tourist satisfaction, local communities and policymakers need to provide the necessary infrastructure and facilities at these destinations. Further, local entrepreneurs are motivated to invest in delivering products that attract tourists.

Originality/value

The conceptual model developed in this study, is first of its kind, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, that investigates the effect of hedonism (second moderator) moderating the relationship between tourist satisfaction and culture (first moderator) in influencing tourists to revisit their intention. In addition to direct relationships, the moderating role of community support and benefits, culture and hedonism makes a unique contribution to the bourgeoning literature on tourism especially in Indian context.
Food security and trade: public stockholding through the lens of economies and law
Authors: Bhattacharya Krishna , Ahuja Mahima
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The debate to find a solution for domestic price support under the WTO Agreement on Agriculture (AOA) has been a long one. The stance of India is critical to determine due to its large population. This paper aims to analyse the benefits or demerits of minimum price support and what approach could be adopted by India.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is a mix of both analytical and theoretical research. The paper first provides a background on the issues related to public stockholding and further analyses some data at which India procures wheat and rice from the farmers and then compares it with retail market prices in India.

Findings

The paper finds that the difference in price between minimum price support and retail market prices in India for wheat and rice is minimal. Therefore, the concern that India might be taking advantage of the minimum price is uncalled for. India also needs to balance its own interests as well as abide by its WTO obligations. The paper finds that cooperation among countries or regional blocks might help to address the problem of food insecurity.

Originality/value

The paper portrays India’s stance with regard to WTO AOA as well as studies the Indian market for wheat and rice.
A dynamic threshold analysis of effect of Financial Action Task Force (FATF) measures on financial inclusion: evidence from the world
Authors: Urooj Shama
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine the effect of Financial Action Task Force (FATF) compliance on the degree of financial inclusion (FI) across 174 economies during the period from 2011 to 2021, including developed and developing countries.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses panel dynamic threshold regression to examine whether there is a threshold effect that exists in FATF compliance.

Findings

The findings show that FATF regulations enhance financial inclusiveness all over the world, but at the same time, FATF regulations regarding AML/CFT implications impose a high cost on financial institutions above the threshold of FATF compliance.

Research limitations/implications

This study’s findings indicate that nations should undertake deliberate struggle to reduce the prevalence of money laundering (ML) and terrorism financing by putting in place effective FATF regulatory frameworks to support FI.

Originality/value

This study’s findings indicate that nations should undertake deliberate struggle to reduce the prevalence of ML and terrorism financing by putting in place effective FATF regulatory frameworks to support FI. Regulators must, however, guarantee that the process is cost-effective and efficient.
Complex interactions between diverse mobile genetic elements drive the evolution of metal‐resistant bacterial genomes
Authors: Mahbub Khandaker Rayhan , Chénard Caroline , Batinovic Steven , Petrovski Steve , Lauro Federico M. , Rahman Md Hafizur , Megharaj Mallavarapu , Franks Ashley E. , Labbate Maurizio
Published: November 2023

In this study, we compared the genomes of three metal‐resistant bacteria isolated from mercury‐contaminated soil. We identified diverse and novel MGEs with evidence of multiple LGT events shaping their genomic structure and heavy metal resistance. Among the three metal‐resistant strains, Sphingobium sp SA2 and Sphingopyxis sp SE2 were resistant to multiple metals including mercury, cadmium, copper, zinc and lead. Pseudoxanthomonas sp SE1 showed resistance to mercury only. Whole genome sequencing by Illumina and Oxford Nanopore technologies was undertaken to obtain comprehensive genomic data. The Sphingobium and Sphingopyxis strains contained multiple chromosomes and plasmids, whereas the Pseudoxanthomonas strain contained one circular chromosome. Consistent with their metal resistance profiles, the strains of Sphingobium and Sphingopyxis contained a higher quantity of diverse metal resistance genes across their chromosomes and plasmids compared to the single‐metal resistant Pseudoxanthomonas SE1. In all three strains, metal resistance genes were principally associated with various novel MGEs including genomic islands (GIs), integrative conjugative elements (ICEs), transposons, insertion sequences (IS), recombinase in trio (RIT) elements and group II introns, indicating their importance in facilitating metal resistance adaptation in a contaminated environment. In the Pseudoxanthomonas strain, metal resistance regions were largely situated on a GI. The chromosomes of the strains of Sphingobium and Sphingopyxis contained multiple metal resistance regions, which were likely acquired by several GIs, ICEs, numerous IS elements, several Tn3 family transposons and RIT elements. Two of the plasmids of Sphingobium were impacted by Tn3 family transposons and ISs likely integrating metal resistance genes. The two plasmids of Sphingopyxis harboured transposons, IS elements, an RIT element and a group II intron. This study provides a comprehensive annotation of complex genomic regions of metal resistance associated with novel MGEs. It highlights the critical importance of LGT in the evolution of metal resistance of bacteria in contaminated environments.
Does Unsatisfactory Subjective Well‐Being of School Children Decrease their Cognitive Skill Development?*
Authors: Baryshnikova Nadezhda V. , Ploeckl Florian , Yunren Nasantogtokh
Published: November 2023

This study examines the heterogeneous effect of subjective well‐being on the cognitive development of school‐age children in developing countries based on the Young Lives Longitudinal Survey. A fixed‐effects specification, an instrumental variable approach with parental subjective well‐being as the instrument, and quantile IV estimations show that low subjective well‐being leads to a 2–3 month developmental delay. The effect is heterogeneous across the cognitive development distribution, appearing stronger for the lower part of the distribution and weakening at the top end. Additionally, the precise shape of this gradient differs between genders, locations, and school types.
Spatial growth and convergence in Indian agriculture
Authors: Balaji Sedithippa J. , Gopinath Munisamy
Published: November 2023

The economic growth convergence between advanced nations and the rest of the world has been found to reduce global income inequality. However, less is known about convergence within nations, especially in developing economies with substantial regional heterogeneities. Using the neoclassical framework, this study tests for farm income convergence in India, where agriculture employs over 200 million workers. Household farm income is estimated in 599 districts using three pan‐India situation assessment surveys (2003, 2013, and 2019). The conditional convergence model—augmented to capture spatial spillovers—shows farm incomes are converging across Indian districts but at slower rates in recent years and among farmers in the left‐tail of the income distribution. Irrigation infrastructure, crop diversification, and distance to the urban market explain farm income growth, and hence, spatial income disparities. Returns to these factors are high for middle‐income farmers than for the rich or poor. Spatial spillovers, likely from technological change, captured in residuals also had a positive impact on farm incomes. Results remain unchanged when farm income was replaced by its value added. Connecting the poorest to the markets, strengthening infrastructure and promoting diversification for the middle‐income groups, and nudging high‐income farmers toward value chains could help equitable economic development.
Are traditional interviews more prone to effects of impression management than structured interviews?
Authors: Bill Benedikt , Melchers Klaus G. , Steuer Jana , Eisele Edith
Published: November 2023

Research on whether interviewees can improve their interview ratings through impression management (IM) relative to an honest condition has focused on highly structured interviews whereas traditional interviews have received little attention. Thus, this study aimed to determine how prone traditional compared to highly structured interviews are to effects of IM. Therefore, we conducted simulated selection interviews using a 2 × 2 within‐subjects design. All participants went through a condition in which they were asked to present themselves as honestly as possible and a condition in which they were instructed to act like an applicant. Additionally, each interview contained eight traditional and eight structured questions. The differences in the usage of self‐reported honest and deceptive IM between the honest and applicant conditions were comparable for both interview types. Furthermore, interview ratings were better in the applicant condition compared to the honest condition, and importantly, this improvement was larger for the traditional interview part compared to the structured interview part. Even though the larger performance improvement was not reflected in self‐reported honest and deceptive IM, our results suggest that it is easier for applicants to intentionally improve their performance ratings in traditional interviews. Additionally, performance improvements correlated positively with applicants' ability to identify criteria.
PADRES: a phase 2 clinical trial of neoadjuvant axitinib for complex partial nephrectomy
Authors: Hakimi Kevin , Campbell Steven C. , Nguyen Mimi V. , Rathi Nityam , Wang Luke , Meagher Margaret F. , Rini Brian I. , Ornstein Moshe , McKay Rana R. , Derweesh Ithaar H.
Published: November 2023

Objective

To report the results of PADRES (Prior Axitinib as a Determinant of Outcome of Renal Surgery, NCT03438708), a study investigating neoadjuvant axitinib for tumours of high complexity with imperative indication for partial nephrectomy (PN).

Methods

We conducted a single‐arm phase II clinical trial of localized (cT1b‐cT3M0) clear‐cell renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients with imperative indications for nephron preservation, where PN is a high‐risk procedure due to complexity (RENAL score 10–12). Axitinib 5 mg was administered twice daily for 8 weeks with repeat imaging at completion, followed by surgery. The primary outcome was successful completion of planned PN following axitinib treatment. Secondary objectives included changes in tumour diameter, RENAL nephrometry score, renal function and Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumours (RECIST) v1.1, and surgical complications.

Results

Twenty‐seven patients were enrolled (median age 69 years). Prior to therapy, twenty patients (74.0%) had ≥ clinical T3a staged tumours. Axitinib resulted in reductions in tumour diameter (7.5 vs 6.2 cm; P < 0.001) and RENAL score (11 vs 10; P < 0.001). Nine patients (33.3%) had partial response based on RECIST and nine (33.3%) were clinically downstaged. PN was performed in twenty patients (74.0%); twenty‐five patients (96.2%) had negative margins. Six patients (22.2%) had Clavien III–IV complications. The median change in estimated glomerular filtration rate (preoperative to last follow‐up) was 8.5 mL/min/1.73 m2.

Conclusion

Neoadjuvant axitnib resulted in reductions in tumour size and complexity, enabling safe and feasible PN and functional preservation in patients with complex renal masses and imperative indication.
Recent dental visits and family caregiving among individuals with dental symptoms: A nationwide cross‐sectional study in Japan
Authors: Ishimaru Miho , Zaitsu Takashi , Kino Shiho , Inoue Yuko , Taira Kento , Takahashi Hideto , Tamiya Nanako
Published: November 2023

Objectives

With the increasing number of family caregivers due to the ageing population, physical and mental health problems among caregivers are of concern. However, few studies have evaluated their oral health. This study aimed to evaluate the association between being a family caregiver and recent dental visits for dental symptoms in Japan, with consideration of gender.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted using the 2016 Comprehensive Survey of Living Conditions (CSLC) in Japan. Participants with dental symptoms were included in this study. The primary outcome was recent dental visits. The exposure variable of interest was being a primary caregiver for a family member requiring long‐term care. A logistic regression analysis was conducted adjusting for contributing factors such as age, gender, marital status, working hours per week, education, household expenditure per month, self‐rated health and the interaction between gender and caregiving. A stratified analysis by gender was also performed.

Results

Of the 5100 eligible participants, 233 (4.6%) were family caregivers. Of all participants, 2746 (53.8%) reported dental visits. The adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of family caregivers having recent dental visits was 0.83 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.64–1.09). In a gender stratified analysis, family caregivers were less likely to visit dental clinics than were non‐family caregivers in the male subsample (aOR: 0.56, 95% CI: 0.34–0.92) but not in the female subsample (aOR: 0.99, 95% CI: 0.72–1.38).

Conclusions

The findings indicate that family caregivers, especially male caregivers, had fewer dental visits than non‐family caregivers. These findings suggest the need to improve the accessibility of dental clinics to family caregivers with dental symptoms.
Giant papillary hemangioma—A rare tumor with an exceptional size
Authors: Abdo Maryam , Dykstra Jordan A. , Meyer Anders , Dai Hongyan
Published: November 2023

Papillary hemangioma (PH) is a recently described vascular tumor with a predilection for the skin of the head and neck. Histopathologically, it is characterized by a bland endothelial proliferation arranged in a papillary configuration, bearing resemblance to glomeruloid hemangioma seen in the context of polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, monoclonal protein, skin changes syndrome. The largest cutaneous PH reported to date measured 1.5 cm in greatest dimension. Here, we report a case of PH with an alarming size of 10 cm. We present this case to add to the limited literature on this rare tumor, highlight the histopathologic differences between PH and its mimics, and emphasize the variable nature of PH tumor size.
Endoscopic full‐thickness resection for gastric submucosal tumors: Japanese multicenter prospective study
Authors: Shichijo Satoki , Uedo Noriya , Sawada Atsushi , Hirasawa Kingo , Takeuchi Hirohisa , Abe Nobutsugu , Miyaoka Masaki , Yao Kenshi , Dobashi Akira , Sumiyama Kazuki , Ishida Tsukasa , Morita Yoshinori , Ono Hiroyuki
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Early gastric cancer endoscopic resection (ER) is prominent in Japan. However, evidence regarding ER of gastric submucosal tumors (SMT) is limited. This prospective multicenter phase II study investigated the efficacy and safety of endoscopic full‐thickness resection (EFTR) for gastric SMT.

Methods

Endoscopic full‐thickness resection indication for gastric SMT was 11–30 mm, histologically proven or clinically suspicious (irregular margin, increasing size, or internal heterogeneity) gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), with no ulceration and intraluminal growth type. The primary end‐point was the complete ER (ER0) rate, with a sample size of 42.

Results

We enrolled 46 patients with 46 lesions between September 2020 and May 2023 at seven Japanese institutions. The mean ± SD (range) endoscopic tumor size was 18.8 ± 4.5 (11–28) mm. The tumor resection and defect closure times were 54 ± 26 (22–125) min and 33 ± 28 (12–186) min, respectively. A 100% ER0 was achieved in all 46 patients. The EFTR procedure was accomplished in all patients without surgical intervention. One patient had delayed perforation and was managed endoscopically. GIST accounted for 76% (n = 35) of the cases. R0, R1, and RX rates were 33 (77%), 3 (6.5%), and 7 (15%), respectively.

Conclusion

Endoscopic full‐thickness resection for gastric SMT of 11–30 mm is efficacious. It warrants further validation in a large‐scale cohort study to determine the long‐term outcome of this treatment for patients with gastric GIST.
Can the delivery of behavioural support be improved in the NHS England Low‐Calorie Diet Programme? An observational study of behaviour change techniques
Authors: Evans Tamla S. , Drew Kevin J. , McKenna Jim , Dhir Pooja , Marwood Jordan , Freeman Charlotte , Hill Andrew J. , Newson Lisa , Homer Catherine , Matu Jamie , Radley Duncan , Ells Louisa J.
Published: November 2023

Background

Previous research has illustrated a drift in the fidelity of behaviour change techniques (BCTs) during the design of the pilot NHS England Low‐Calorie Diet (NHS‐LCD) Programme. This study evaluated a subsequent domain of fidelity, intervention delivery. Two research questions were addressed: (1) To what extent were BCTs delivered with fidelity to providers programme plans? (2) What were the observed barriers and facilitators to delivery?

Methods

A mixed‐methods sequential explanatory design was employed. Remote delivery of one‐to‐one and group‐based programmes were observed. A BCT checklist was developed using the BCT Taxonomy v1; BCTs were coded as present, partially delivered, or absent during live sessions. Relational content analysis of field notes identified observed barriers and facilitators to fidelity.

Results

Observations of 122 sessions across eight samples and two service providers were completed. Delivery of the complete NHS‐LCD was observed for five samples. Fidelity ranged from 33% to 70% across samples and was higher for group‐based delivery models (64%) compared with one‐to‐one models (46%). Barriers and facilitators included alignment with the programme's target behaviours and outcomes, session content, time availability and management, group‐based remote delivery, and deviation from the session plan.

Conclusions

Overall, BCTs were delivered with low‐to‐moderate fidelity. Findings indicate a dilution in fidelity during the delivery of the NHS‐LCD and variation in the fidelity of programmes delivered across England. Staff training could provide opportunities to practice the delivery of BCTs. Programme‐level changes such as structured activities supported by participant materials and with sufficient allocated time, might improve the delivery of BCTs targeting self‐regulation.
Causal relationship between sleep apnea and non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zhang Ziqi , Li Meng , Ji Guang , Zhang Li
Published: November 2023

Background

Observational studies indicate that sleep apnea is associated with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its related metabolic features, independent of confounding factors including obesity. However, the causal relationships remain to be determined.

Methods

Univariable and multivariable Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses were performed to investigate the causal relationship between sleep apnea and NAFLD, along with its typical features including liver function, glycemic traits and lipid profiles. Summary‐level data for sleep apnea were obtained from the Finngen consortium (33,423 cases and 307,648 controls). Summary‐level data for NAFLD were available from a GWAS meta‐analysis (8434 cases and 770,180 controls), and data for 12 NAFLD‐related features from corresponding published GWASs. The inverse variance weighted (IVW) analysis was employed as the primary statistical method. Bidirectional MR and CAUSE analysis were conducted to avoid reverse causality and false positive findings.

Results

In univariable MR analyses, we found evidence to support a causal effect of genetically predicted sleep apnea on NAFLD (OR = 1.50, 95% CI = 1.18–1.91) and HDL‐C (β = −0.045, 95% CI = ‐0.090 to −0.001). In reverse MR, genetically predicted serum TG was associated with an increased risk of sleep apnea (OR = 1.07, 95% CI = 1.02–1.12), while genetically predicted HDL‐C was associated with a decreased risk of sleep apnea (OR = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.89–0.98). After adjusting body mass index or educational attainment, none of these causal associations were retained. However, CAUSE method and MR analyses focusing on lipoprotein subfractions supported a causal effect of sleep apnea on HDL‐C and HDL subfractions.

Conclusion

This MR study indicated that sleep apnea has no direct causal association with NAFLD, elevated liver enzymes and insulin resistance. Our results showed suggestive inverse associations of genetically predicted sleep apnea on HDL‐C and HDL subfractions, indicating that both HDL‐C levels and HDL function may be causally implicated in sleep apnea.
International teaching practices in dental trauma education
Authors: O'Connell Anne C. , Olegário Isabel C.
Published: November 2023

Background/Aim

Several publications highlight the insufficient knowledge possessed by dentists and dental students regarding the management of traumatic dental injuries (TDIs). A lack of clinical experience during Undergraduate (UG) education could explain the reported deficits in managing dental trauma post‐graduation. Despite its importance in dentistry, there are very few reports on how, where and who teaches Dental Traumatology (DT) in the UG curriculum. The aim of this study was to investigate teaching practices in DT around the world in UG education.

Materials and Methods

UG educators involved in DT teaching activities were invited to complete an online questionnaire hosted on Qualtrics®. The survey consisted of close‐ended and open‐ended questions on their teaching practices in DT. Only one answer per institution was included in the final descriptive analysis.

Results

A total of 203 responses from 164 institutions were obtained from 69 countries. All institutions reported that DT is included in their UG curriculum, and is mainly taught within Paediatric Dentistry and Endodontics. Most teaching and evaluation was delivered in traditional format. The number of contact hours dedicated to DT teaching activities ranged from 2 to 185 h (median = 10). Only 35% of institutions had a unified approach across disciplines. DT was taught as a separate course/module in 23% of the universities. Insufficient exposure to emergency care and the lack of formal clinical exposure to TDI was highlighted by many institutions. The need for a core curriculum was supported by 84% of the institutions with agreement on essential topics required at UG level.

Conclusions

Teaching practices in DT varied internationally. Very few teaching hours were devoted to DT and many institutions identified a need for increased clinical exposure. There was a desire for a standardised coherent approach to DT in the UG education with suggestions to improve educational resources.
Treatment outcomes of permanent teeth with uncomplicated and complicated crown fractures and factors associated with pulp survival: A retrospective study
Authors: Cheng Jing , Li Jiahui , Li Chunmei , Zhang Xiaojin , Zhao Xiaoe , Song Guangtai
Published: November 2023

Background

Crown fracture is the most common injury in permanent teeth. This study aimed to evaluate the treatment outcomes of permanent teeth with uncomplicated and complicated crown fractures and to investigate potential factors.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective study included patients who experienced crown fractures in permanent teeth from 2018 to 2021 with at least 12 months of follow‐up. All complicated crown fractured teeth were treated with pulpotomy, while for teeth with uncomplicated crown fractures, three treatments (restoration, indirect pulp capping, or pulpotomy) were employed. The chi‐square test was used to compare the prognosis of teeth with uncomplicated and complicated crown fractures. Potential factors associated with pulp survival including gender, interval, root development, enamel infraction, mobility, concomitant luxation injury, treatment, and coronal restoration were identified via Cox regression analysis.

Results

A total of 307 teeth from 220 children (average age = 9.3 ± 1.4 years; age range, 6–14 years) with a median follow‐up of 23 months were included, and 82.1% of all teeth had immature roots. Complicated crown fractured teeth (93.6%, 102/109) had a significantly higher success rate compared with uncomplicated crown fractured teeth (85.4%, 169/198) (p < .05). Pulpotomy (96.9%) had the highest success rate of all treatments for uncomplicated crown fractures, followed by only restoration (85.0%) and indirect pulp capping (76.9%). The success rate of teeth that received pulpotomy was significantly higher than those treated by indirect pulp capping (p < .05). In uncomplicated crown fractures, teeth with Class II mobility were more vulnerable to failure than teeth without abnormal mobility (HR = 34.83; 95% CI, 9.59–126.56; p < .05); teeth that received pulpotomy were less prone to failure than teeth that received indirect pulp capping (HR = 13.53; 95% CI, 1.58–115.72; p < .05).

Conclusion

Crown fractures treated with conservative pulp treatments had a relatively highly favorable prognosis. The prognosis of uncomplicated crown fractured teeth was impacted by the severity of periodontal injury and treatment strategies. Accurate diagnosis and identification of micro‐exposures are important. Dentists should take multiple risk factors into account and select optimal treatment strategies.
Topical and field‐tested residual effects of globally used insecticides on the parasitoid Tamarixia radiata released against the Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri
Authors: Rugno Gabriel Rodrigo , Qureshi Jawwad A.
Published: November 2023

Tamarixia radiata (Waterston) (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) is the key parasitoid of the Asian citrus psyllid (ACP), Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Liviidae), in several citrus‐producing regions of the world. Chemical control is common to suppress ACP. Insecticides from globally used classes of insecticides for controlling ACP were tested on its primary parasitoid, T. radiata. Evaluations included dose–response of dimethoate, fenpropathrin, and imidacloprid in a topical application and lethal and sublethal effects from residues of imidacloprid, fenpropathrin, horticultural mineral oil (HMO), pyrethrin, and spirotetramat at 1, 3, and 7 days after application (DAA) of sprays on citrus trees in the orchard. The parasitism potential of the females that survived insecticide exposure was evaluated on untreated nymphs of ACP developing on citrus shoots and untreated parasitoid females were evaluated on nymphs treated with insecticides. In the topical application, imidacloprid was 8× more toxic to T. radiata than dimethoate and fenpropathrin. The lethal effect of the residues from imidacloprid and fenpropathrin sprays was more detrimental than other insecticides. Parasitoid mortality from 1‐ to 3‐day‐old residues averaged 90–96% for imidacloprid, 83–94% for fenpropathrin, 38–77% for pyrethrin, 43–44% for HMO, and 17–33% for spirotetramat. Parasitism by females that survived insecticide exposure was reduced by 71–88% from fenpropathrin, 28–59% from pyrethrin, 31–55% from imidacloprid, 44–4% from spirotetramat, and 39–11% from HMO compared to untreated females. The lethal and sublethal effects of all insecticides on T. radiata were significantly reduced at 7 DAA, suggesting a lower impact on its establishment and performance if releases are made after a week from spray application.
Are we there yet? A critical evaluation of sudden and unexpected death in epilepsy models
Authors: Smith Jonathon , Richerson George , Kouchi Hayet , Duprat Fabrice , Mantegazza Massimo , Bezin Laurent , Rheims Sylvain
Published: November 2023

Although animal models have helped to elaborate meaningful hypotheses about the pathophysiology of sudden and unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP), specific prevention strategies are still lacking, potentially reflecting the limitations of these models and the intrinsic difficulties of investigating SUDEP. The interpretation of preclinical data and their translation to diagnostic and therapeutic developments in patients thus require a high level of confidence in their relevance to model the human situation. Preclinical models of SUDEP are heterogeneous and include rodent and nonrodent species. A critical aspect is whether the animals have isolated seizures exclusively induced by a specific trigger, such as models where seizures are elicited by electrical stimulation, pharmacological intervention, or DBA mouse strains, or whether they suffer from epilepsy with spontaneous seizures, with or without spontaneous SUDEP, either of nongenetic epilepsy etiology or from genetically based developmental and epileptic encephalopathies. All these models have advantages and potential disadvantages, but it is important to be aware of these limitations to interpret data appropriately in a translational perspective. The majority of models with spontaneous seizures are of a genetic basis, whereas SUDEP cases with a genetic basis represent only a small proportion of the total number. In almost all models, cardiorespiratory arrest occurs during the course of the seizure, contrary to that in patients observed at the time of death, potentially raising the issue of whether we are studying models of SUDEP or models of periseizure death. However, some of these limitations are impossible to avoid and can in part be dependent on specific features of SUDEP, which may be difficult to model. Several preclinical tools are available to address certain gaps in SUDEP pathophysiology, which can be used to further validate current preclinical models.
Generating mutual support in multifamily therapy to promote father involvement and family communication quality of Chinese families of adolescents with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A qualitative study
Authors: Lo Julia Wing Ka , Ma Joyce Lai Chong
Published: November 2023

Previous studies have suggested the negative impacts of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) on parent–adolescent interactions. Yet engaging parents, particularly the fathers, to participate in family‐based interventions has been challenging in Chinese contexts given the traditional concerns about keeping the family's “face” and the influence of affiliate stigma. Empirical evidence supports multifamily therapy as an effective modality for parental engagement. This study explores the role of mutual support in promoting parental engagement and family communication quality of Chinese families of adolescents with ADHD. Inclusion criteria of the study were (a) Chinese family of at least one adolescent child having an ADHD diagnosis, (b) the adolescent child was aged between 11 and 15 years, and (c) the family participated in a multifamily therapy program. Families who had not completed a multifamily therapy program were excluded. Fourteen Chinese families of adolescents with ADHD who participated in a pilot multifamily therapy program from June 2017 to September 2018 were recruited for this qualitative study. Photo‐elicited parent focus groups and photo‐elicited individual interviews with adolescents were conducted. The thematic analysis revealed that a low level of hierarchy in the therapist–client relationship contributed to the building of mutual support among the families in the therapy process. The mutual support was found to play a key role in promoting acceptance, father involvement, and open communication within families of adolescents with ADHD. Discussion was conducted on the importance of the nonexpert stance of the therapist for promoting mutual support among Chinese families in a multifamily therapy process.
Recognizing the nexus between grid infrastructure, renewable energy, net interregional transmission and carbon emissions: Evidence from China
Authors: Liang Jia , Wang Yongpei
Published: November 2023

Over the past few decades, China has undergone an unprecedented structural transformation, stupendously transforming its energy and environmental systems and decarbonizing pathways. Nevertheless, around the share of clean and renewable energy generation with the goal of low‐carbon, it is still ambiguous how the dynamic relationship between the upgrading of grid infrastructure, interregional power trading and the investment and economic foundation that support their collaborative promotion forms. Thus, under the framework of panel vector autoregressive models, we study the bridge that links the key dominant factors in the pattern of electricity supply and demand such as grid infrastructure, power generation share of clean and renewable energy, net power input and carbon emissions. The results show that the governance framework dominated by power grid infrastructure upgrading, interregional power input dependence and carbon constraint mechanism to promote clean‐oriented energy mix is still flawed. In addition to improve the utilization rate of power grid infrastructure, relevant policy makers should devote more efforts to software conditions including interregional and interprovincial power trading and grid‐connecting mechanisms of clean and renewable energy.