bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the impact of staff training on “personality disorder” on attitudes, knowledge and confidence over time
Authors: Myklebust Hege , Gaffney Hannah , Parkinson Sarah
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Research demonstrates that health-care staff can hold negative attitudes toward people diagnosed with “Personality Disorders” (PdxPD), which can negatively impact health-care outcomes. Evidence for staff training is inconsistent with limited demonstration of sustained impact. This study aims to evaluate whether a new, brief training session can deliver similar results to longer training packages and sustain positive change 6- and 12-months after training (Black et al., 2011).

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 428 health-care staff attended the 3-hour training session during the study period. Questionnaires assessing knowledge, confidence and attitudes were administered pre- and post-training and at 6- and 12-month follow-up.

Findings

Brief training significantly improved knowledge of PdxPD (p < 0.001), attitudes towards PdxPD (p < 0.001) and staff confidence (p < 0.001) working with PdxPD after training. Feedback showed high ratings of training usefulness and quality of training delivery. Improvements in knowledge, attitudes and confidence were maintained over 12 months. However, gains in knowledge were not maintained at six months.

Research limitations/implications

The study demonstrates positive outcomes from short training which can lead to significant resource and clinical time savings.

Originality/value

Findings suggest that the brief training session can achieve similar outcomes to more intensive training evaluated elsewhere. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to consider maintenance of outcomes at 12 months for foundational PdxPD training. The staff sample was broad and not limited to staff working in specific settings or professions.
Optimal maintenance and spare part policy for an urban micro wind power system
Authors: Lin Hongjie , Qi Faqun , Liu Yuxin , Chen Xiang , Zha Wenfei
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to develop an optimal maintenance and spare parts policy for an urban micro wind power system, focusing on two urban micro wind farms (UMWF). The reliability and efficiency of these systems are sought to be enhanced by considering the relationship between urban wind parameters and wind turbine degradation.

Design/methodology/approach

A proportional hazards (PH) model is utilized to describe how urban wind conditions impact turbine degradation. The maintenance strategy includes preventive maintenance (PM), corrective maintenance (CM) and opportunistic maintenance (OM). A multi-objective optimization algorithm is developed to optimize the joint policy of OM plans and spare parts resource allocation.

Findings

The proposed maintenance and spare parts policy effectively balances the trade-offs between PM, CM and OM strategies. Numerical experiments demonstrate that the policy improves the reliability of UMWF, reducing downtime and maintenance costs while ensuring the availability of spare parts when needed. The results show a significant enhancement in system performance compared to traditional maintenance approaches.

Originality/value

A novel maintenance policy and spare parts management approach for urban micro wind power systems is proposed. A multi-objective optimization algorithm is developed to optimize the OM schedule and maintenance spare parts resource management strategy for wind farms in urban wind environments.
Owing to interactivity: a meta-analysis on consumer-brand responses in the digital context
Authors: Fan Xiaojun , Li Huiyao , Jiang Xinyu
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Interactivity is the key to developing digital branding. However, existing research on brand interactivity outcomes is inconsistent and fragmented, lacking a systematic empirical exploration of its effects on consumer responses in the digital context.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing upon the cognition-affection-conation (CAC) framework as our theoretical compass, a meta-analysis was conducted to synthesize and analyze empirical evidence from 144 samples involving 57,952 participants to assess how and when digital brand interactivity influences consumers’ multilevel responses.

Findings

Our narrative unfolds with digital brand interactivity as the catalyst, fostering positive consumer behaviors – brand loyalty and purchase intention – through a sequential dance of cognitive mindset shifts (brand experience, engagement and attitude) and affective resonance (trust and emotional attachment). A moderation analysis adds depth, revealing stronger effects in B2C settings for lesser-known brands with hedonic interaction content and among individuals with a collectivist orientation.

Practical implications

Our findings serve as a roadmap for targeted digital marketing strategies, guiding brands, consumers and contextual aspects to optimize the performance of digital branding by harnessing the full potential of digital interactivity.

Originality/value

This study introduces a framework combining CAC and brand-consumer psychology to understand how interactivity affects consumer responses in digital contexts. It delves into dynamic shifts moderated by brand characteristics, consumer traits and contextual factors, offering a holistic view of digital branding’s impact on interactive marketing.
Unleashing supply chain innovation and frugal innovation: examining the interaction between institutional pressures and supply chain analytics adoption
Authors: Al-Omoush Khaled Saleh , Fernández-Caparrós Miguel Reinoso , Lassala Carlos , Ribeiro-Navarrete Samuel
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study investigates the effects of institutional pressures on the adoption of supply chain analytics (SCA) and its subsequent impact on supply chain (SC) innovation and frugal innovation. It also examines the correlation between SC innovation and frugal innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

The study collected data from manufacturing companies in Jordan. PLS path analysis is applied.

Findings

The PLS path analysis showed that coercive pressures did not significantly affect the outcome, but both normative and mimetic ones were found to have significant effects on SCA adoption. The study also shows that SCA plays a significant role in SC innovation and frugal innovation. Furthermore, it demonstrates that SC innovation significantly impacts frugal innovation.

Originality/value

Overall, these findings provide valuable theoretical implications to the literature by advancing our understanding of the interactive relationships between institutional pressures, SCA, SC innovation and frugal innovation. Understanding the role that institutional pressures play in SCA adoption and its subsequent impact on SC innovation and frugal innovation enables organizations to strategically position themselves for competitive advantage and sustainable growth within the dynamic field of supply chain management.
Brand experiences and loyalty among young smartphone users: a serial mediation analysis
Authors: Gazi Md. Abu Issa , Ibrahim Md. , Masud Abdullah Al , Reza Syed Muhammod Ali
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The current study aims to investigate how young smartphone users in Bangladesh relate their brand experiences to brand loyalty. In addition, we want to visualize the direct and mediating effects of brand satisfaction, brand love and brand advocacy in our model.

Design/methodology/approach

The researchers examined the hypotheses by employing structural equation modeling (SEM) in AMOS and Decision Analyst STATS, version 2.0, with a sample size of 470 Bangladeshi smartphone users. The authors constructed the conceptual model by drawing upon both theoretical and empirical foundations. The researchers obtained data by utilizing an adopted and self-administered pre-structured questionnaire distributed via an online platform.

Findings

The results showed that brand experience greatly influences brand satisfaction, love, advocacy and loyalty, all of which have a significant impact on users’ brand loyalty across the country. The findings also suggested that the function of brand satisfaction as a critical mediator in the link between brand experience and brand loyalty was significant.

Originality/value

This experiment contributes to the body of knowledge by focusing on emotional brand attachments like brand satisfaction, love and advocacy and proposing that they can mediate experience and loyalty in the mobile market. The study also helps managers and executives better understand the primary drivers of smartphones, which are essential for generating and sustaining consumers’ happiness and loyalty in today’s highly competitive consumer market.
Recordkeeping for project management information system in public procurement: an action research
Authors: Rebuglio Massimo , Ottaviani Filippo Maria , De Marco Alberto
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impact of laws, regulations and standards (i.e. the sources) on implementing a recordkeeping system in the public sector. It then provides an approach to set up a recordkeeping system in public procurement that complies with modern project management (PM) paradigms, information technology best practices and sources.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used the action research methodology to implement a recordkeeping system module within a PM information system for an Italian public procurement project. The study involved mapping the existing information flows, analyzing stakeholders’ needs and constraints and developing, testing and analyzing PM approaches and tools.

Findings

Regarding the impact of the sources, national laws set usability parameters and specify the content to store but often overlook storage methods and formats. Customs dictate data exchange formats, significantly affecting storage efficiency and retrieval, and are challenging to alter. Contracts outline content requirements and may standardize formats among parties. Standards establish foundational principles, ensuring records remain authentic, retrievable and usable over time. The proposed approach to address these constraints involves implementing information systems across multiple layers.

Practical implications

This research proposes a blueprint for effective recordkeeping in public procurement. This can lead to cost savings, reduced paperwork and faster access to critical data. In terms of proposed policies, it is also discussed how contracts could address these issues at the root by imposing suitable formats for PM data exchange.

Originality/value

The novelty of this study is associated with the proposed approach for designing and implementing recordkeeping systems that comply with laws, regulations and standards aligned with modern PM paradigms.
Conceptualizing and modeling firms’ price image in the business market
Authors: Ranjan Piyush
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Price image studies have dominated the consumer market but have been slower to evolve in the business market. This research aims to conceptualize and validate the firms’ price image (FPI) in the business market, as well as to develop a conceptual framework for exploring the importance of pricing capability (PC) in the formation of FPI and its influence on customer value (CV) and business performance (BP).

Design/methodology/approach

The study conducted field interviews with business managers and customers of Indian small and medium-sized enterprises to operationalize and validate the FPI variable using a mixed method of qualitative and quantitative multivariate analyses. Partial least square structural equation modeling technique was applied to validate a conceptual model on a sample of 286 respondents acquired from both physical and digital questionnaire survey techniques.

Findings

The findings revealed that PC is positively linked to FPI, which in turn, significantly affects CV and BP. Moreover, CV serves as a partial mediator in the FPI–BP link. The research also offers a measurement scale consisting of eight items for assessing the FPI variable from the stakeholders’ perspective.

Research limitations/implications

This research contributes to the literature on price image by refining and testing measures of FPI, and enriches the existing literature by understanding the theoretical relationships among PC, FPI, CV, and BP.

Practical implications

The research reveals that developing PC is a useful tool for SMEs to build favorable FPI, which delivers superior CV and obtains improved BP. The findings can also assist SME managers to gain a sustainable competitive advantage by maintaining a favorable FPI.

Originality/value

While a growing number of consumer market studies reveal that price image is strategically important for the retailers who own it, no study has explored the role of price image in the business market. This is the first study to explore price image at the firm level in the business market. This study further provides empirical evidence for the claim that PC influences the formation of a FPI and clarifies the relationship between FPI, CV and BP.
Species‐specific seasonal variations in thermal performance curves shape the direct and transgenerational vulnerability to marine heatwaves
Authors: Dinh Khuong V. , Vu Minh T. T.
Published: February 2025

Research Highlights: Sasaki, M., Finiguerra, M. & Dam, H.G. (2024). Seasonally variable thermal performance curves prevent adverse effects of heatwaves. Journal of Animal Ecology. https://doi.org/10.1111/1365‐2656.14221. Marine heatwaves (MHWs) emerge as a devastating stressor that can have direct and transgenerational effects on marine organisms. However, we know very little about how seasonal variations in thermal performance curves (TPCs) may help marine zooplankton cope with these direct and transgenerational effects of MHWs. In a recent study, Sasaki et al. (2024) combined field observations and simulated laboratory heatwave experiments, uncovering seasonal variations in TPCs for key fitness‐related traits, including egg and offspring production, hatching success and survivorship in two ecologically important copepod species Acartia tonsa and A. hudsonica. They discovered that the TPC of A. tonsa was highly seasonally variable, allowing them to maintain their thermal optimum of at least 5°C above the field temperature. The transgenerational effects of parental exposure to MHWs on the offspring were minor. In contrast, the TPC of A. hudsonica was relatively unchanged across seasons, suggesting that this species may be highly vulnerable to MHWs, especially during summer. These findings agree with distinct seasonal abundances of the two species in nature: A. hudsonica is primarily abundant during winter and spring while A. tonsa dominates the summer and fall. These findings enhance our understanding of how seasonal variations in TPCs can determine the vulnerability of marine species to heatwaves through direct and transgenerational effects, which are important for ecological risk assessments of marine ecosystems under a rapidly changing climate.
Triple gains: More production, less nitrogen and greater diversity from cropland reallocation in England and Wales
Authors: Almeida‐Furtado Murilo , Meuwissen Miranda P. M. , Ang Frederic
Published: February 2025

Agricultural production is the main driver of nitrogen pollution and diversity loss. This study assesses the potential of cropland reallocation to simultaneously increase production and decrease nitrogen balances, and its impact on crop diversity. Our technological specification extends the by‐production approach by dynamically modelling the impact of the N balance from the previous year on current year crop production. We use a robust order‐m data envelopment analysis to estimate the production frontier, and the Hill‐Shannon index to assess crop diversity before and after optimal cropland reallocation. The application uses Farm Business Survey data from farms in England and Wales between 2015 and 2019. The results show that efficiency gains would have increased crop production by GBP 10.31 per ha and decreased the nitrogen balance by 1.05 kg per ha, when compared with a business‐as‐usual scenario. Reallocation, only focusing on increasing production, would have increased crop production by GBP 83.74 per hectare and reduced the nitrogen balance by 2.01 kg per ha. Reallocation, focusing on increasing production and decreasing the nitrogen balance, would have increased the former by GBP 71.88 per hectare and reduced the latter by 4.99 kg per ha. The median cropland diversity increases by approximately 0.24 species per farm in both reallocation scenarios. Our results suggest that farmers can simultaneously improve economic and environmental performance, which would increase crop diversity. Effective policies should address barriers to diversification and foster management practices that both increase production and decrease nitrogen balances.
Structures, antioxidant, and angiotensin I‐converting enzyme (ACE)‐inhibitory activities of peptides derived from protein hydrolysates of three phenolics‐rich legume genera
Authors: Chang Sam K. C. , Zhang Yan , Pechan Tibor
Published: February 2025

Lentil, black soybean, and black turtle bean are rich in phenolic antioxidants but belong to different scientific genera with different protein structures. This study's objective was to compare the characteristics of peptides derived from the protein hydrolysates of these legumes. Proteins were isolated, cooked, and subjected to in vitro digestion with pepsin, trypsin, and chymotrypsin. Hydrolyzed peptides were fractionated by ultrafiltration (UF), anion‐exchange chromatography, and gel‐permeation chromatography (GPC). GPC‐eluted peptides of <3 kDa with high angiotensin I‐converting enzyme (ACE)‐inhibitory activities were sequenced. Antioxidant profiles of peptides from the three legumes analyzed by five methods did not follow the same activity patterns associated with the decreases in peptide's molecular size. Among the UF fractions, the <3 kDa fraction had the highest ACE‐inhibition with approximately 45%, 42%, and 39% at 100 µg/mL. Stepwise purifications of the hydrolysates enhanced the ACE‐inhibitory capacity (IC50) by two to nine folds after GPC to approximately 85, 64, and 93 µg/mL for lentil, black soybean, and black turtle bean, respectively. The 210 peptides sequenced in the <3 kDa fractions had chain‐lengths, ranging from 6 to 18 amino acids with lentil having the shortest average length of 7.7 per peptide. Overall, based on chemical analyses, peptides contributed higher antioxidant capacity and ACE‐inhibition than phenolics in legumes. Black turtle bean may need to be heated more prior to consumption to achieve the same digestibility as lentil and soy proteins. Results provided a foundation for making bioactive peptides from the three legumes.

Practical Application

Three antioxidant‐rich legume genera, lentil, black soybean, and black turtle bean, produced different peptides with different angiotensin I‐converting enzyme (ACE) potencies and different peptide lengths. The results provided a scientific basis for producing peptides from the selected genera for the development of functional foods or dietary supplement with high antioxidant, ACE inhibitory activities, and digestibility.
Sustainability in Radiology: Position Paper and Call to Action From ACR, AOSR, ASR, CAR, CIR, ESR, ESRNM, ISR, IS3R, RANZCR, and RSNA
Authors: Rockall Andrea G. , Allen Bibb , Brown Maura J. , El‐Diasty Tarek , Fletcher Jan , Gerson Rachel F. , Goergen Stacy , Marrero González Amanda P. , Grist Thomas M. , Hanneman Kate , Hess Christopher P. , Ho Evelyn Lai Ming , Salama Dina H. , Schoen Julia , Sheard Sarah
Published: February 2025

The urgency for climate action is recognised by international government and healthcare organisations, including the United Nations (UN) and World Health Organisation (WHO). Climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution negatively impact all life on earth. All populations are impacted but not equally; the most vulnerable are at highest risk, an inequity further exacerbated by differences in access to healthcare globally. The delivery of healthcare exacerbates the planetary health crisis through greenhouse gas emissions, largely due to combustion of fossil fuels for medical equipment production and operation, creation of medical and non‐medical waste, and contamination of water supplies. As representatives of radiology societies from across the globe who work closely with industry, and both governmental and non‐governmental leaders in multiple capacities, we advocate together for urgent, impactful, and measurable changes to the way we deliver care by further engaging our members, policymakers, industry partners, and our patients. Simultaneous challenges including global health disparities, resource allocation, and access to care must inform these efforts. Climate literacy should be increasingly added to radiology training programmes. More research is required to understand and measure the environmental impact of radiological services and inform mitigation, adaptation and monitoring efforts. Deeper collaboration with industry partners is necessary to support innovations in the supply chain, energy utilisation, and circular economy. Many solutions have been proposed and are already available, but we must understand and address barriers to implementation of current and future sustainable innovations. Finally, there is a compelling need to partner with patients, to ensure that trust in the excellence of clinical care is maintained during the transition to sustainable radiology. By fostering a culture of global cooperation and rapid sharing of solutions among the broader imaging community, we can transform radiological practice to mitigate its environmental impact, adapt and develop resilience to current and future climate and environmental threats, and simultaneously improve access to care.
Analgesia and anesthesia for closed reduction of dislocated total hip arthroplasty: Protocol for a scoping review
Authors: Knudsen Rasmus Linnebjerg , Bjulf Rikke Helene Frølund , Bahuet Aurelien‐Xuan Rosendal , Steensbæk Mathias Therkel , Jellestad Anne‐Sofie Linde , Lange Kai Henrik Wiborg , Lundstrøm Lars Hyldborg , Nørskov Anders Kehlet
Published: February 2025

Background

Total hip arthroplasty is a common surgical procedure, but dislocation remains a significant complication often requiring closed reduction. Current anesthetic practices for closed reduction of total hip arthroplasty vary widely, and evidence on the efficacy, safety, and cost‐effectiveness of different anesthetic and analgetic regimens is limited.

Methods

This scoping review follows the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines and PRISMA‐ScR framework. A systematic search will be conducted in major databases to identify studies on anesthetic approaches for closed reduction of dislocated total hip arthroplasty. Eligible studies will include adult patients and focus on outcomes such as success rate, complications, patient satisfaction, and procedural efficiency. Data will be extracted and synthesized narratively and descriptively.

Results

The review will map the existing evidence on anesthetic and analgetic regimens, including their success rates, associated complications, and cost‐effectiveness. It will also highlight gaps in the literature and variations in practice across different settings.

Conclusion

By summarizing current evidence and identifying research gaps, this scoping review aims to inform clinical practice and guide future studies, ultimately improving the safety, effectiveness, and efficiency of anesthetic strategies for closed reduction of dislocated total hip arthroplasties.
Deprescribing in Australian residential aged care facilities: A scoping review
Authors: Liang Jenny Xinyu , Thai Louise , Healy Madeleine , Idris Adam Mohd , Chin Jian Wey , Grossman Christopher
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Older adults residing in residential aged care facilities (RACFs) are particularly vulnerable to negative health outcomes from polypharmacy and suboptimal prescribing in the context of frailty and multimorbidity. Deprescribing, the intentional withdrawal of inappropriate medications, has been proposed as a promising approach to reduce polypharmacy‐related harms. Examining current deprescribing interventions in RACFs would help identify gaps in research knowledge. The aim of this scoping review was to synthesise the current literature, describe the current knowledge gaps and future research priorities that the authors identified.

Methods

MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO and AgeLine were searched according to the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines for scoping reviews from inception until February 2024 to identify relevant studies published in the English language.

Results

Of the 2244 articles screened, 13 studies (total of 133,150 RACF residents across Australia) were identified examining deprescribing interventions. Six studies were controlled trials and seven studies were observational studies. There were six pharmacist‐led interventions, five multidisciplinary team‐led interventions and two physician‐led interventions. Main themes discussed included as follows: multidisciplinary care, education for health‐care professionals, refining outcome measures, overcoming system issues and research logistics. The most commonly targeted medications in the included studies were psychotropics.

Conclusions

Deprescribing is an important intervention for RACF residents but more research into translating evidence into clinically meaningful outcomes is needed. Successful studies typically involved multidisciplinary interventions, had an educational component, followed‐up longitudinally with residents and carers and involved stakeholders, such as nurses. The economic impacts of deprescribing in this cohort are poorly understood.
Improving Cardiovascular Outcomes in the Psoriasis Cohort. Psoriasis and Cardiovascular Disease—Clinician Knowledge, Practice and Perceptions
Authors: Smith Annika , Lai Belinda , Zaman Sarah , Wong Peter , Foo Fiona , Bell Katy J. L. , Fernandez‐Penas Pablo , Chow Clara K.
Published: February 2025

Background

Psoriasis is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). This risk is independent and incremental to traditional cardiovascular (CV) risk factors, but clinician and patient perspectives on this risk are unclear. This study aims to assess the knowledge, perceptions, and practice of clinicians and patients with respect to psoriasis and CVD.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study consisted of a self‐administered questionnaire capturing demographic characteristics, knowledge of the association between psoriasis and CVD, and perspectives on CV screening and management. This was distributed to members of relevant Australasian Speciality Medical Colleges, speciality societies, and psoriasis patients in public and private clinic settings. Survey data were assessed using descriptive statistics. Logistic regression was used to investigate the relationship between categorical variables and the outcome variable, for example, to determine factors predictive of clinician knowledge and perceptions. For all analyses, a p‐value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

A total of 298 clinicians (dermatologists (86), rheumatologists (56), cardiologists (53), general practitioners (103)) and 102 patients with psoriasis were surveyed. Regarding clinician knowledge of the association between psoriasis and CVD, dermatologists and rheumatologists indicated knowledge of this association (98.8%) (85/96) and 91.1% (51/56) respectively, while only 54.7% (29/53) of cardiologists and 29.1% (30/103) of GPs indicated knowledge of this association. Only 23.5% (24/102) of patients surveyed indicated knowledge of this association. Clinicians with a higher proportion of their caseload including psoriasis patients were significantly more likely to be aware of the association between psoriasis and CVD (OR 3.05 [1.64, 5.68]; p < 0.001). Most clinicians nominated GPs as best placed to facilitate CV risk factor screening and management (dermatologists 80.2% (69/86); rheumatologists 83.9% (47/56); cardiologists 75.5% (40/53); GPs 88.3% (91/103)). Patients preferred specialist input and multidisciplinary care for CVD risk management; 34.3% (35/102) nominated a cardiologist as the preferred clinician, and 23.5% (24/102) indicated preference for a multidisciplinary team.

Limitations

The possibility of sampling and response bias, inherent in the study design, is acknowledged; however, responses are likely representative of clinician and patient sentiments on this issue and in keeping with similar study findings.

Conclusion

Clinician and patient knowledge of the relationship between psoriasis and CVD needs to be improved. The establishment of a national consensus approach to address this gap in clinical care is needed.
Dementia and Cognitive Impairment in the Australian Farming Community. A Preliminary Qualitative Investigation of Healthcare Provider's Perceptions of Risks/Barriers to Care
Authors: Gunning James , Peachey Kerri‐Lynn , Lower Tony , Mesa‐Castrillon Carlos
Published: February 2025

Background

Farmers are at higher risk of developing dementia due to occupational exposures throughout their lives. People living in regional and remote areas also have increased barriers to care compared with urban populations, while farmers face additional barriers.

Aims

To explore the barriers to care and risks faced by farmers with dementia, from the perspectives of healthcare workers. This preliminary study also aims to explore the differences in barriers faced by farmers and non‐farming rural populations.

Methods

Seven participants from a range of health professions were interviewed in a semi‐structured style to explore their experiences. The data were coded and analysed using a constructivist grounded theory approach to search for recurring themes.

Results

Six key themes emerged from the data: (1) barriers arising from typical farmer personality traits; (2) geographic isolation; (3) late diagnoses of dementia; (4) barriers to the provision of care on the farm; (5) on‐farm risks; and (6) transition to residential aged care home.

Conclusions

Farmers living with dementia on‐farm may face significant barriers to care and risks to themselves and others compared to non‐farm rural and urban populations. These additional barriers predominantly stem from increased geographic isolation and personality traits common to farming populations. However, there is potential for change to improve care provision through earlier diagnosis, more efficient service funding to enhance treatment availability and the use of residential aged care homes more suited to farmers.
Hybrid Laparoscopic and Open Repair of a Transdiaphragmatic Intercostal Hernia: A Case Report
Authors: Hanis Amirah Lofti , Siow Sze Li , Nurazim Sidi , Kamaruzaman Izzat Asyraf
Published: February 2025

Transdiaphragmatic intercostal hernia is a rare condition that presents unique management challenges. We describe a 68‐year‐old morbidly obese male (BMI 40) with multiple comorbidities who underwent successful hybrid laparoscopic and open repair of a right transdiaphragmatic intercostal hernia. The hernia developed following blunt trauma 5 years earlier, which caused fractures of the right 4th–7th ribs. The patient presented with a swelling in the right flank region. CT imaging revealed a 5.9‐cm diaphragmatic defect and a 10.6 × 11.9 cm intercostal defect containing small and large bowels, and omentum. Preoperative optimization included a very low‐calorie diet and stabilization of diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. Surgery involved lateral decubitus positioning, customized laparoscopic port placement, an additional incision for defect closure, and laparoscopic onlay mesh placement. Recovery was uneventful, with discharge on postoperative Day 5 and no recurrence at 6 months. This case underscores the importance of meticulous preparation and hybrid techniques in managing complex hernias.
Engineered pulmonary artery tissues for measuring contractility, drug testing and disease modelling
Authors: Fellows Adam L. , Quigley Kate , Leung Venus , Ainscough Alexander J. , Wilkins Martin R. , Barnett Harry , Miller David , Mayr Manuel , Wojciak‐Stothard Beata
Published: February 2025

Background and Purpose

Vasoreactivity of pulmonary arteries regulates blood flow through the lungs. Excessive constriction of these vessels contributes to pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a progressive and incurable condition, resulting in right heart failure. The search for new and improved drug treatments is hampered by laboratory models that do not reproduce the vasoactive behaviour of healthy and diseased human arteries.

Experimental Approach

We have developed an innovative technique for producing miniature, three‐dimensional arterial structures that allow proxy evaluation of human pulmonary artery contractility. These “engineered pulmonary artery tissues” or “EPATs” are fabricated by suspending human pulmonary artery vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) in fibrin hydrogels between pairs of silicone posts, located on custom‐made racks, in 24‐well culture plates.

Key Results

EPATs exhibit rapid, robust and reproducible contraction responses to vasoconstrictors (KCl, ET‐1, U46619) as well as relaxation responses to clinically approved PAH vasodilatory drugs that target several signalling pathways, such as bosentan, epoprostenol, selexipag and imatinib. EPATs composed of pulmonary artery VSMCs from PAH patients exhibit enhanced contraction to vasoconstrictors and relaxation in response to vasodilators. We also demonstrate the incorporation of endothelial cells into EPATs for the measurement of endothelium‐dependent dilatory responses.

Conclusion and Implications

We demonstrate the capacity and suitability of EPATs for studying the contractile behaviour of human arterial cells and preclinical drug testing. This novel biomimetic platform has the potential to dramatically improve our understanding and treatment of cardiovascular disease.
Outpatient Management of Clinical Comorbidities in Children With Cerebral Palsy in Low‐ and Middle‐Income Countries
Authors: Dias Bruno Leonardo Scofano , Duarte Lenamaris Mendes Rocha , Fava Daniela , de Lima Fernanda Marinho
Published: February 2025

Background

Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common physical disability of childhood. Its prevalence in low‐and middle‐income countries (LMICs) is over 3/1000 live births, about double the 1.6/1000 in high income countries (HICs). Multimorbidity is highly prevalent in CP. In LMICs, there are higher rates of prevalence, severity, comorbidities and mortality in children with CP. The evidence base for the recommendations in CP emanates overwhelmingly from studies conducted in HICs. Research conducted in LMICs settings, involving local clinicians, considering local context and investigating local solutions are urgently needed.

Methods

This scoping review aimed to identify and synthesise current evidence on management of clinical comorbidities in children with CP in LMICs. The Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines were followed for the data extraction and analysis phases. The following questions guided the scoping review: What are the main clinical comorbidities in children with CP? What are the gold standards for diagnosis and treatment of these comorbidities? What options do we have to diagnose and treat these comorbidities in LMICs when gold standards are not available?

Results

A total of 22 188 citations were identified by our search strategy, with 21 380 remaining after the removal of 808 duplicates. After screening titles and abstracts, 1918 citations progressed to full text review. A total of 194 articles met the eligibility criteria and were included in the review. The guiding questions of the review were answered for the following morbidities: respiratory impairments, dysphagia and aspiration, gastroesophageal reflux disease, drooling, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, malnutrition, constipation, epilepsy, sleep disorders, spasticity, dystonia, pain, hip disorders, scoliosis and osteoporosis.

Conclusion

This article highlights the need for interventions adapted to the realities of LMICs. Empowering paediatricians and healthcare professionals in LMICs is crucial for early diagnosis and proactive interventions. Specific guidelines for LMICs can better guide professionals in managing these complex conditions.
Global Epidemiology and Socioeconomic Correlates of Salivary Gland Cancer From 2020 to 2040
Authors: Mousavi Seyed Ehsan , Ghasemi Hoomaan , Najafi Morvarid , Nejadghaderi Seyed Aria
Published: February 2025

Objectives

To report the epidemiology and socioeconomic correlates of salivary gland cancers (SGCs) at global, regional and national levels by age, sex and country.

Methods

Data on the incidence and mortality of SGC for the year 2020 were extracted from the Global Cancer Observatory. The relationships between incidence and mortality rates with the human development index (HDI) and the ratio of current healthcare expenditure to gross domestic product were investigated using bivariate correlation tests. Also, projections for new cancer cases or mortalities in a specific nation or region between 2025 and 2040 were estimated by multiplying age‐specific incidence or mortality rates, with the anticipated population for the years 2025–2040.

Results

In 2020, the global crude incidence and mortality rates of SGC were 0.69 and 0.29, respectively. Among the World Health Organization regions, the Americas and Africa had the highest SGC age‐standardised incidence rate (ASIR) and age‐standardised mortality rate (ASMR), respectively. By HDI classification, the very high HDI group had the highest SGC ASIR at 0.69, whereas the low HDI group had the highest SGC ASMR at 0.49. Among different age groups, those aged 70+ had the highest SGC incidence and mortality crude rates. Globally, males had higher SGC incidence and mortality crude rates than females. A strong negative correlation was found between HDI and SGC ASMR and the mortality‐to‐incidence ratio (p < 0.001). By 2040, the global incidence and mortality numbers of SGC are projected to increase by 50% and 60%, respectively.

Conclusions

These findings provide crucial insight into the global distribution and disparities in SGC care quality. Furthermore, this report has the potential to aid in the planning of SGC control initiatives.
Pathogenic variants in chromatin‐related genes: Linking immune dysregulation to neuroregression and acute neuropsychiatric disorders
Authors: Dale Russell C. , Mohammad Shekeeb , Han Velda X. , Nishida Hiroya , Goel Himanshu , Tangye Stuart G. , Hollway Georgina , Tantsis Esther , Gill Deepak , Patel Shrujna ,   Chromatin Immune‐Brain Group
Published: February 2025

We report eight children with de novo pathogenic DNA variants in chromatin‐related genes: MORC2, CHD7, KANSL1, KMT2D, ZMYND11, HIST1HIE, EP300, and KMT2B. All children experienced infection or vaccine‐provoked neuroregression or abrupt‐onset neuropsychiatric syndromes. Most had delayed development (n = 6) before the first regression, and four had immune deficiency or autoimmunity (n = 4). At a mean age of 4 years 2 months (range 1–8 years), symptoms included infection‐provoked autistic/language regression (n = 6), cognitive decline (n = 3), gait deterioration (n = 3), or abrupt‐onset anxiety, obsessive‐compulsive disorder, and/or tics (n = 5). Three children had ongoing infection‐provoked deteriorations. Six children benefited from intravenous immunoglobulin (n = 3) or antibiotics (n = 4). Ribonucleic acid expression of the eight chromatin genes was similar in neuronal, glial, and peripheral leukocytes, unlike non‐chromatin neurodevelopmental genes, which have predominantly neuronal expression. These cases demonstrate the role of chromatin dysregulation in autistic regression and abrupt‐onset neuropsychiatric syndromes, potentially related to brain and immune gene dysregulation.
Epigenetic control of cell identities from epiblast to gastrulation
Authors: Schüle Katrin M. , Probst Simone
Published: February 2025

Epigenetic modifications of chromatin are essential for the establishment of cell identities during embryogenesis. Between embryonic days 3.5–7.5 of murine development, major cell lineage decisions are made that discriminate extraembryonic and embryonic tissues, and the embryonic primary germ layers are formed, thereby laying down the basic body plan. In this review, we cover the contribution of dynamic chromatin modifications by DNA methylation, changes of chromatin accessibility, and histone modifications, that in combination with transcription factors control gene expression programs of different cell types. We highlight the differences in regulation of enhancer and promoter marks and discuss their requirement in cell lineage specification. Importantly, in many cases, lineage‐specific targeting of epigenetic modifiers is carried out by pioneer or master transcription factors, that in sum mediate the chromatin landscape and thereby control the transcription of cell‐type‐specific gene programs and thus, cell identities.
The First Evidence of Long‐Term Survival of the Deep‐Sea Blackmouth Catshark (Galeus melastomus) Following Release From Bottom Longline Fisheries
Authors: Gajić Andrej A. , Martin Andrea G.
Published: February 2025

This study documented the first evidence of healing and long‐term survival of blackmouth catsharks (Galeus melastomus) following traumatic mandibular fractures and associated soft tissue avulsions that resulted from previous captures on deep‐sea longlines. All sharks were actively feeding, despite acute and healed lesions, which suggests that such severe trauma did not impair feeding. Additionally, one female with a healed lesion and three developed eggcases indicated that reproduction was unaffected. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed no other alterations in the chondrocranium, splanchnocranium, or broader skeletomuscular system and major viscera. Although the small sample size does not fully represent postrelease survival for the species after capture in longline fisheries, the resilience observed was significant for conservation and fisheries management, which underscores the need for further research.
Preparation of carbon foam from silicon‐containing polyarylacetylene/quartz powder with excellent oxidation resistance
Authors: Shen Xuetao , Jin Chaoen , Wang Fan , Zhu Yaping , Deng Shifeng , Qi Huimin
Published: February 2025

In this study, silicon‐containing polyarylacetylene (PSA) was used as a carbon source, and quartz powder (QP) was used as a filler to prepare PSA/QP composite carbon foams through chemical foaming and high‐temperature carbonization. The effects of the carbonization temperature and QP doping on the microstructure, apparent density, and oxidation resistance of the carbon foams were investigated. In addition, PSA carbon foams without QP doping were prepared for comparison. The results indicated that as the carbonization temperature increased, the pore sizes of both the PSA and PSA/QP composite carbon foams decreased, while their apparent densities and oxidation resistance increased. QP doping reduced the degree of pore shrinkage during carbonization, mitigated the increase in apparent density, and promoted SiC formation, enhancing the oxidation resistance of the carbon foams. At the carbonization temperature of 1400°C, the PSA/Q9‐1400 composite carbon foam exhibited an apparent density of 0.273 g/cm3 and a Td5 of 731°C, which can be used for a long time in an oxidation atmosphere at 300°C. PSA/QP carbon foams had low density and excellent oxidation resistance, which makes them suitable for high‐temperature thermal protection materials in aerospace fields.
Correction: Boron‐dependent microstructural evolution, thermal stability, and crystallization of mechanical alloying derived SiBCN
Authors: Li Daxin , Yang Zhihua , Jia Dechang , Cai Delong , Wang Shengjin , Chen Qingqing , Zhou Yu , Yu Dongli , Tian Yongjun
Published: February 2025

In this paper, the amorphous boron‐rich SiBCN powders were prepared by high‐energy ball‐milling of the mixtures of inorganic Si, graphite, h‐BN, and boron. The solid‐state amorphization, thermal stability, and crystallization of the resulting SiBCN powders were studied in detail. Results showed that mechanical alloying can drive solid‐state amorphization but also can be an initiation step for the nucleation of few SiC nanocrystals. The amorphous networks containing Si‐C, C‐B, C‐C, C‐N, BN, and C‐B‐N bonds are detected; however, solid‐state NMR further confirms the formation of a new chemical environment around B atoms, BC3. The increases in boron content improve the thermal stability of SiBCN ceramics but weaken their oxidation resistance. Nano‐SiC crystallizes first while BN(C) forms subsequently. Increasing boron content promoting SiC crystallization may result from the reduced hindering effects of B‐N‐C nanodomains that retard SiC crystallization.
Impact of Tricuspid Regurgitation on Atrial Fibrillation Recurrence After Pulmonary Vein Isolation
Authors: Weyand Sebastian , Adam Viola , Biehler Paloma , Hägele Patricia , Hanger Simon , Löbig Stephanie , Pinchuk Andrei , Ausbuettel Felix , Waechter Christian , Seizer Peter
Published: February 2025

Background

The impact of tricuspid regurgitation (TR) on the outcomes of pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) for atrial fibrillation (AF) remains unclear. While the effects of mitral regurgitation (MR) on PVI outcomes are well‐documented, there are limited data on how moderate or greater TR influences PVI efficacy and recurrence rates.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of moderate or greater TR on the outcomes of PVI, particularly focusing on AF recurrence rates within the first year post‐PVI.

Methods

We conducted an observational cohort study involving 421 patients undergoing their first PVI. 96 patients with moderate or greater TR were propensity score‐matched with 96 controls based on age, sex, body mass index, and MR severity. Procedural parameters, complication rates, and AF recurrence within 1‐year post‐PVI were analyzed.

Results

Despite comparable procedural parameters and low overall complication rates between the groups, patients with moderate or greater TR experienced significantly higher AF recurrence rates within the first year after PVI. Right atrium (RA) area was notably larger in these patients, suggesting a potential link between RA remodeling and increased AF recurrence.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that moderate or greater TR is associated with higher recurrence rates of AF after PVI, potentially due to RA enlargement and remodeling. This highlights the need for tailored ablation strategies that consider the RA substrate and/or TR treatment in patients with significant TR and AF. Further multicenter, prospective studies are required to validate these results and explore long‐term outcomes.
3D Printed Provisional Removable Partial Denture Designed Using Virtual Patient for a Road Traffic Accident Victim
Authors: de Sousa Lucas Cavalcante , Curinga Míria Rafaelli Souza , Galvão Cecília Santos , Lam Walter Yu Hang , Carreiro Adriana da Fonte Porto
Published: February 2025

Objective

Provisional removable partial denture (RPD) preserves esthetic and functional parameters until definitive treatment. This clinical report presents a 19‐year‐old victim of a road traffic accident who lost the maxillary right central and lateral incisors.

Clinical Considerations

A 3D printed maxillary provisional RPD planned using a virtual patient was provided until the patient could undergo implant‐supported rehabilitation. Intraoral and facial scans were conducted, and the images were integrated into a dental software program for digital prosthetic planning. The provisional RPD was designed considering the facial parameters, then 3D printed, characterized, and delivered to the patient.

Conclusions

The 3D printed provisional RPD demonstrated satisfactory esthetic and functional outcomes, offering a faster and more predictable alternative compared to the conventional method.

Clinical Significance

Using virtual patients to design 3D printed provisional removable partial dentures can enhance the predictability of treatment, especially in the esthetic area.