bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intravenous diltiazem infusions for rapid atrial fibrillation or flutter in the emergency department: A retrospective, exploratory analysis
Authors: Zitek Tony , Pagano Kristina , Fernandez Carolina , Zajd Sarah , Akhter Murtaza , Kheradia Tarang , Vaidean Georgeta , Farcy David A.
Published: July 2024

Background

Emergency physicians commonly treat patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) or atrial flutter (AFL) with rapid ventricular response, and intravenous (IV) diltiazem is the most commonly used medication for rate control of such patients. We sought to compare rate control success and safety outcomes for emergency department (ED) patients with AF or AFL who, after a diltiazem bolus, received a diltiazem drip compared to those who did not receive a drip.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study comparing outcomes of ED patients from a single hospital system with AF and AFL and a heart rate (HR) > 100 beats/min who received a diltiazem drip after an IV diltiazem bolus to those who received no drip. The primary outcome was a HR < 100 beats/min at the time of ED disposition. Secondary outcomes were hospital length of stay and safety (hypotension, electrical cardioversion, vasopressor use, and death). We compared groups using propensity score matching.

Results

Between January 1, 2020, and November 8, 2022, there were 746 AF or AFL patients eligible for analysis. Of those, 382 (51.2%) received a diltiazem drip and 364 (48.8%) did not. In the unadjusted analysis, the last recorded ED HR was <100 beats/min in 55.2% of patients in the drip group compared to 65.9% in the no‐drip group (difference 10.7%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.7 to 17.7). After propensity matching, diltiazem drip use was associated with lower likelihood of rate control in the ED (OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.48–0.99) and 22.5 h (95% CI 12.2–36.8) longer hospital stay.

Conclusions

For patients with AF or AFL, the use of a diltiazem drip after an IV diltiazem bolus was associated with less rate control in the ED.
Use of eDNA and conventional sampling methods to survey rock pool (gnamma) biodiversity on granite inselbergs
Authors: Michael Damian R. , Murray Allan , Murray Phil , Murray Beau , Hagen Sam , Mcternan Richard , Furst Deborah J. , Nimmo Dale G.
Published: July 2024

Sampling of environmental DNA (eDNA) and high‐throughput sequencing is emerging as an effective biodiversity assessment method in aquatic systems and may have utility for biodiversity inventory in terrestrial environments. Rock pools (gnammas) on granite inselbergs support a rich community of aquatic organisms and are culturally important to Indigenous peoples worldwide. However, the application of eDNA to survey rock pool biodiversity are undocumented. In a collaborative study with traditional owners, we explore the application of eDNA metabarcoding and traditional sampling methods to document and compare species richness and composition of eukaryotes from 15 rock pools (pits and pans) on granite inselbergs in southeastern Australia. We detected 116 taxonomic units, 81 assignments from eDNA sequencing and 35 species (23 rotifers and 12 microcrustaceans) using microscopic analysis. eDNA detected a broad range of taxa not previously documented from rock pools in Australia, although significantly more zooplankton (rotifers and microcrustaceans) were detected under a microscope, including several rare species and two undescribed species of rotifer. Brachionus calyciflorus and B. angularis were the only rotifer species assigned to species level through eDNA sequencing and were detected using both methods. We found no significant difference in mean species richness between rock pool types; however, species composition differed significantly between pits and pans. This study highlights the value of using eDNA to document biodiversity of ephemeral aquatic habitats in terrestrial ecosystems but reveals the general lack of reference sequence data for microorganisms, underscoring the value of using traditional sampling and taxonomic assignment methods.
Multi‐year responses of reptiles to prescribed burning in a eucalypt forest ecosystem
Authors: Doherty Tim S. , Johnson Brent , Friend Gordon R. , Wayne Adrian F.
Published: July 2024

Prescribed burning is the primary method used to reduce wildfire risk in a range of ecosystems globally. Knowledge of how animal populations respond to prescribed burns is essential for designing fuel management plans that are sensitive to ecological values. We conducted a before–after, control‐impact experiment in the temperate jarrah forest ecosystem of south‐western Australia to examine how reptiles respond to season of burning (spring or autumn) and time since burning (0–5 years). Through pitfall trapping at 10 survey grids over 7 years, we captured 1808 reptiles from 22 species. Bayesian mixed effects models revealed that six of the eight species analysed showed either a decrease or increase in capture rate at burnt compared to unburnt sites, and most of these effects only occurred within the first 2 years post fire. Species richness showed a weak negative response to one autumn burn and no relationship with time since fire. Fire effects were more common in autumn compared to spring burns, which is likely a reflection of differing fire severities. These results suggest that prescribed burning can temporarily reduce habitat suitability and abundance for some species, particularly those that rely on leaf litter for shelter and foraging. Our findings emphasise the dynamic nature of reptile responses to prescribed burns and underscore the importance of considering both fire seasonality and recency of burning in wildlife management plans.
Spline linear mixed‐effects models for causal mediation analysis with longitudinal data
Authors: Albert Jeffrey M. , Zhu Hongxu , Dey Tanujit , Sun Jiayang , Woyczynski Wojbor A. , Powers Gregory , Min Meeyoung
Published: July 2024

Often, causal mediation analysis is of interest when both the mediator and the final outcome are repeatedly measured, but limited work has been done for this situation (as opposed to where only the mediator is repeatedly measured). Available methods are primarily based on parametric models and tend to be sensitive to model assumptions. This article presents semiparametric, continuous‐time models to provide a flexible and robust approach to causal mediation analysis for longitudinal data, which allows these data to be unbalanced or irregular. Specifically, the method uses spline linear mixed‐effects models for the mediator and for the final outcome, with a two‐step approach to model‐fitting in which a predicted mediator is used as a covariate in the final outcome model. The models allow flexible functions for both the mean and individual response functions for each outcome. We derive estimated natural direct and indirect effects as a function of time using an extended mediation formula and sequential ignorability assumption. In simulation studies, we compare properties of estimated direct and indirect effects, and a delta method estimate of the standard error of the latter, under alternative approaches for predicting the mediator. The approach is illustrated using harmonised data from two cohort studies to examine attention as a mediator of the effect of prenatal tobacco exposure on externalising behaviour in children.
Pan‐European survey on medication adherence management by healthcare professionals
Authors: Kamusheva Maria , Aarnio Emma , Qvarnström Miriam , Hafez Gaye , Mucherino Sara , Potočnjak Ines , Trečiokiene Indre , Mihajlović Jovan , Ekenberg Marie , van Boven Job F. M. , Leiva‐Fernandez Francisca ,   European Network to Advance Best Practices and Technology on Medication AdherencE (ENABLE)
Published: July 2024

Aims

While medication adherence (MA) is a key prerequisite for achieving optimal clinical and economic outcomes, nonadherence is highly prevalent. Assessing how healthcare professionals (HCPs) in Europe manage MA, focusing on measurement, reporting and interventions, is the subject of this study.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted among 40 European countries and quantitative analysis was conducted via an online survey. The multi‐language online survey was created using Webropol 3.0 survey and reporting tool. Descriptive statistics and chi‐squared tests were applied.

Results

In total, 2875 HCPs (pharmacists: 39.9%; physicians: 36.7%; nurses: 16.4%) from 37 European countries participated. The most used methods for MA assessment were direct communication with patients (86.4%) and referring to personal patient records (56.7%) (P < 0.0001). Physicians (74.9%) and nurses (58.8%) were more aware of problems related to MA in contrast to pharmacists (48.6%) (P < 0.001). Almost all HCPs (92.6%) indicated that MA‐enhancing interventions involved mainly direct communication with nonadherent patients (93.3%) and their caregivers (55.7%). Medication review and related optimization of therapy were mainly performed in Western European countries (46.8%). Technological solutions were ranked as one of the less applied approaches (10–15%) (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

HCPs in all European regions recognize MA management as an integral element of overall patient‐centred care. More efforts are needed to ensure timely, adequate and relevant MA assessment, reporting and improvement and involvement of all HCPs, especially among pharmacists who were generally less aware of MA issues. Promotion and use of digital technological solutions should be the focus of current and future clinical practice to optimize MA management processes.
Let the foxes run free: Arresting bioethics' inward turn
Authors: Robin Dominic
Published: July 2024

As bioethics matures, a number of voices have called for a narrowing of what officially “counts” as bioethics. Bioethics defined broadly, they argue, creates a space that lacks objectivity and rigor, jeopardizing the credibility of the profession. Although a variety of proposed solutions exist, most advance a definitional narrowing of bioethics. In doing so, they mimic the siloed nature of the academy writ large, an institution that organizes itself through the logic of atomization, the belief that knowledge is generated through the process of isolation, examination, theorization, and ultimately reintegration. Borrowing language from Isaiah Berlin's essay “The Hedgehog and the Fox,” I argue that bioethics has thrived precisely because it stands distinct from other departments of learning, constituting one of the few places within the academy where true inter, multi, and cross‐disciplinary scholarship can thrive. Reducing bioethics to an internally defined set of axiomatic rationales does violence to this vision, eroding, in the process, one of the field's greatest assets.
Does contract surrogacy undermine gender equality?
Authors: Hill Jesse
Published: July 2024

Some feminists hold that surrogacy contracts should be unenforceable or illegal because they contribute to and perpetuate unjust gender inequalities. I argue that in developed countries, surrogacy contracts either wouldn't have these negative effects or that these effects could be mitigated via regulation. Furthermore, the existence of a regulated surrogacy market is preferable on consequentialist grounds.
Increased risk of haematological malignancy in adults over age 60 with thrombocytopenia compared with matched controls: Time for an upfront bone marrow evaluation?
Authors: Vijenthira A. , Wilton A. S. , Lee S. , Tang G. H. , Gomes T. , Bussel J. B. , Sholzberg M.
Published: July 2024

International societies have conflicting recommendations on whether bone marrow aspirate/biopsy (BMB) is needed during workup for isolated thrombocytopenia. Our objective was to determine if thrombocytopenia in patients aged ≥60 years is associated with an increased incidence of haematological malignancy. We performed a retrospective population‐based cohort study in patients aged ≥60 years between January 1, 2009 to December 31, 2019. Exposed patients had specialist consultation for thrombocytopenia, with platelet count <100 × 109/L, but normal haemoglobin and white blood cell count. Unexposed patients were those who never had specialist consultation for thrombocytopenia and whose platelets were ≥100 × 109/L. The primary outcome was the diagnosis of haematological malignancy using a competing risk of death model. During 4.0 years (IQR 2.2–6.7) of follow‐up, 378/4930 exposed (19.1/1000PY, 95% CI 17.1–21.0), and 204/17556 unexposed patients (2.5/1000PY, 95% CI 2.2–2.8) were diagnosed with haematological malignancy (HR 15.5 (95% CI 11.3–21.4, p < 0.0001) in year 1, and 5.3 (95% CI 4.4–6.6, p < 0.0001) in years 2+). This finding persisted in analyses stratified by sex, age, severity, or duration of thrombocytopenia, and treatment with corticosteroids within 2 weeks of consultation. This study found a strong association between isolated thrombocytopenia and haematological malignancy in patients ≥60 years, supporting consideration of diagnostic testing including BMB during outpatient specialist consultation.
Risk‐adapted treatment in multiple myeloma: Does more make it merrier?
Authors: Zanwar Saurabh , Galarza Fortuna Gliceida M. , Sborov Douglas W.
Published: July 2024

Kaiser et al. offer management recommendations for transplant‐eligible, high‐risk multiple myeloma (HRMM), derived from recent trials exploring treatment intensification in the various phases of front‐line therapy. The definition of HRMM continues to evolve with emergence of novel genomic insights and impact of modern therapies, underscoring the need to expand beyond traditional interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization cytogenetics and International Staging System staging for a precise risk assessment. Despite progress, ongoing challenges in treatment delivery and tolerability underscore the urgency for exploring novel approaches like T‐cell redirecting bispecific antibodies and chimeric antigen receptor T‐cell to enhance outcomes in this complex patient population.

Commentary on: Kaiser et al. Diagnosis and initial treatment of transplant‐eligible high‐risk myeloma patients: A British Society for Haematology/UK Myeloma Society Good Practice Paper. Br J Haematol 2024; 205:833‐839.
Do the number of zirconia implants and the thickness of CBCT image reconstruction affect the detection of peri‐implant bone defect? A diagnostic accuracy ex vivo study
Authors: da Fonte Juliana Batista Melo , Fontenele Rocharles Cavalcante , Farias‐Gomes Amanda , Ruiz Débora Costa , Andrade‐Bortoletto Maria Fernanda Silva , Sousa Melo Saulo L. , Freitas Deborah Queiroz
Published: July 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the influence of multiplanar reconstruction thickness on the detection of peri‐implant bone defects with a standalone zirconia implant and compare it to when another implant is in the vicinity using cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Materials and Methods

Five dry human mandibles were used to create twenty implant sites in the second premolar and first molar regions. The OP300 Maxio was used to acquire CBCT images (90 kVp, 6.3 mA, 5 × 5 cm FOV, and 0.125 mm3 voxel size) before and after creating 3 mm peri‐implant bone defects in the buccal aspect of the premolar region. Half of the scans featured a single zirconia implant in the premolar region, while the others had two implants in the premolar and molar regions. Three reconstruction thicknesses (0.125 mm, 1 mm, and 2 mm) were considered for the multiplanar reconstruction analyses. Five oral and maxillofacial radiologists assessed the detection of peri‐implant bone defects using a 5‐point scale. Diagnostic parameters were calculated and compared using Two‐way ANOVA (α = .05).

Results

The studied factors showed no significant influence on the diagnosis of peri‐implant bone defects (p > .05). Diagnostic performance was notably higher with a single implant, especially with a 2‐mm reconstruction thickness (AUC = 0.88, sensitivity = 0.68, specificity = 0.94). Although the differences were not statistically significant, the results were more modest when two implants were present (AUC = 0.80, sensitivity = 0.58, specificity = 0.82).

Conclusions

The presence of an adjacent zirconia implant and variations in reconstruction thickness did not influence the detection of 3 mm buccal peri‐implant bone defects on CBCT images.
A descriptive study of poisoners and users of other indiscriminate means to illegally control wildlife in Spain
Authors: Moreno José Antonio Alfaro , García José Antonio Fernández , Jiménez Francisco Velasco , Touza José Manuel Quintana
Published: July 2024

Poison and other indiscriminate means are used illegally for wildlife control worldwide. This pervasive phenomenon can significantly damage ecosystems overall and be particularly harmful to certain species (endangered or otherwise) that are susceptible to poisoned baits. Poisoning (and co‐occurring poaching) jeopardizes public administration efforts to reintroduce or support the populations of certain species, while the favored toxic substances used pose a major threat not only to the biodiversity of habitats but also to human health. Both alleged and actual harm to crops and hunting resources are the main driver of illegal vermin and predator control. Previous studies on poisons and other nonselective methods of wildlife elimination have focused on the means used and the species affected. We have instead taken a global empirical approach, also analyzing contextual aspects, what motivates perpetrators and, eventually, the characteristics of the poisoners and users of various indiscriminate means for illegal wildlife control in Spain. This analysis is derived from a thorough examination of incidents based on the investigation of perpetrator by police and judicial records. Furthermore, this work provides a methodological framework that serves as first approach to this issue, gaining insight into the formulation of preventive policies and improving decision taking by law enforcement agencies.
Translational pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic model for mRNA‐0184, an investigational therapeutic for the treatment of heart failure
Authors: Kaushal Neeraj , Attarwala Husain , Iqbal Mir Javid , Saini Rajnish , Van Linh , Liang Min
Published: July 2024

Heart failure (HF) is a complex, progressive disorder that is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality on a global scale. Relaxin‐2 is a naturally occurring hormone that may have potential therapeutic benefit for patients with HF. To investigate the therapeutic potential of relaxin in the treatment of patients with HF, mRNA‐0184, a novel, investigational, lipid nanoparticle (LNP)–encapsulated mRNA therapy that encodes for human relaxin‐2 fused to variable light chain kappa (Rel2‐vlk) was developed. A translational semi‐mechanistic population pharmacokinetic (PK)/pharmacodynamic (PD) model was developed using data from non‐human primates at dose levels ranging from 0.15 to 1 mg/kg. The PK/PD model was able to describe the PK of Rel2‐vlk mRNA and translated Rel2‐vlk protein in non‐human primates adequately with relatively precise estimates. The preclinical PK/PD model was then scaled allometrically to determine the human mRNA‐0184 dose that would achieve therapeutic levels of Rel2‐vlk protein expression in patients with stable HF with reduced ejection fraction. Model‐based simulations derived from the scaled PK/PD model support the selection of 0.025 mg/kg as an appropriate starting human dose of mRNA‐0184 to achieve average trough relaxin levels between 1 and 2.5 ng/mL, which is the potential exposure for cardioprotective action of relaxin.
Usefulness of the C2HEST score to predict new onset atrial fibrillation. A systematic review and meta‐analysis on >11 million subjects
Authors: Pastori Daniele , Menichelli Danilo , Li Yan‐Guang , Brogi Tommaso , Biccirè Flavio Giuseppe , Pignatelli Pasquale , Farcomeni Alessio , Lip Gregory Y. H.
Published: July 2024

Background

The incidence of new‐onset atrial fibrillation (NOAF) is increasing in the last decades. NOAF is associated with worse long‐term prognosis. The C2HEST score has been recently proposed to stratify the risk of NOAF. Pooled data on the performance of the C2HEST score are lacking.

Methods

Systematic review and meta‐analysis of observational studies reporting data on NOAF according to the C2HEST score. We searched PubMed, Web of Science and Google scholar databases without time restrictions until June 2023 according to PRISMA guidelines. Meta‐analysis of the area under the curve (AUC) with 95% confidence interval (95% CI) and a sensitivity analysis according to setting of care and countries were performed.

Results

Of 360 studies, 17 were included in the analysis accounting for 11,067,496 subjects/patients with 307,869 NOAF cases. Mean age ranged from 41.3 to 71.2 years. The prevalence of women ranged from 10.6 to 54.75%. The pooled analysis gave an AUC of .70 (95% CI .66–.74). A subgroup analysis on studies from general population/primary care yielded an AUC of 0.69 (95% CI 0.64–0.75). In the subgroup of patients with cardiovascular disease, the AUC was .71 (.69–.79). The C2HEST score performed similarly in Asian (AUC .72, 95% CI .68–.77), and in Western patients (AUC .68, 95% CI .62–.75). The best performance was observed in studies with a mean age <50 years (n = 3,144,704 with 25,538 NOAF, AUC .78, 95% CI .76–.79).

Conclusion

The C2HEST score may be used to predict NOAF in primary and secondary prevention patients, and in patients across different countries. Early detection of NOAF may aid prompt initiation of management and follow‐up, potentially leading to a reduction of AF‐related complications.
Food web context modifies predator foraging and weakens trophic interaction strength
Authors: Lemmen Kimberley D. , Pennekamp Frank
Published: July 2024

Trophic interaction modifications (TIM) are widespread in natural systems and occur when a third species indirectly alters the strength of a trophic interaction. Past studies have focused on documenting the existence and magnitude of TIMs; however, the underlying processes and long‐term consequences remain elusive. To address this gap, we experimentally quantified the density‐dependent effect of a third species on a predator's functional response. We conducted short‐term experiments with ciliate communities composed of a predator, prey and non‐consumable ‘modifier’ species. In both communities, increasing modifier density weakened the trophic interaction strength, due to a negative effect on the predator's space clearance rate. Simulated long‐term dynamics indicate quantitative differences between models that account for TIMs or include only pairwise interactions. Our study demonstrates that TIMs are important to understand and predict community dynamics and highlights the need to move beyond focal species pairs to understand the consequences of species interactions in communities.
Family bonds at risk: The spillover effects of workplace ostracism in the parent–child relationship
Authors: Li Yufan , Xin Ziqiang , Gao Hong
Published: July 2024

Objective

This study aimed to bridge the gap between occupational psychology and family psychology by exploring whether and how social connections in the workplace can lead to changes in family relations.

Background

Amid intensified competition, workplace ostracism has become prevalent. However, its negative impacts on children, a vulnerable group within the family, have been largely neglected.

Method

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted on a sample of 673 working parents from multiple companies, along with their children. This enabled us to examine the impacts of workplace ostracism on the parent–child relationship based on both parents' and children's data, with a specific focus on the mediating role of emotional exhaustion.

Results

The consistent findings obtained from parents' and children's relationship ratings revealed that parents' reported workplace ostracism predicted parent–child conflict positively and parent–child closeness negatively. Parents' emotional exhaustion only partially mediated the relationship between workplace ostracism and parent–child conflict, whereas its mediation effect between workplace ostracism and parent–child closeness was found to be insignificant.

Conclusion

The spillover effect of workplace ostracism can exacerbate conflicts and reduce closeness between parents and their children. Emotional exhaustion acts as the underlying mechanism linking workplace ostracism to conflict but not to closeness.

Implications

Programs designed to foster better intraorganizational relationships and promote individual emotion regulation skills may ultimately benefit family harmony.
Structures of BlEst2 from Bacillus licheniformis in its propeptide and mature forms reveal autoinhibitory effects of the C‐terminal domain
Authors: Nakamura Aline Minali , Godoy Andre Schutzer , Kadowaki Marco Antônio Seiki , Trentin Lucas N. , Gonzalez Sinkler E. T. , Skaf Munir S. , Polikarpov Igor
Published: July 2024

Carboxylesterases comprise a major class of α/β‐fold hydrolases responsible for the cleavage and formation of ester bonds. Found ubiquitously in nature, these enzymes are crucial for the metabolism of both endogenous and exogenous carboxyl esters in animals, plants and microorganisms. Beyond their essential physiological roles, carboxylesterases stand out as one of the important classes of biocatalysts for biotechnology. BlEst2, an enzyme previously classified as Bacillus licheniformis esterase, remains largely uncharacterized. In the present study, we elucidate the structural biology, molecular dynamics and biochemical features of BlEst2. Our findings reveal a canonical α/β‐hydrolase fold similar to the ESTHER block L of lipases, further augmented by two additional accessory C‐terminal domains. Notably, the catalytic domain demonstrates two insertions, which occupy conserved locations in α/β‐hydrolase proteins and commonly form the lid domain in lipase structures. Intriguingly, our in vitro cleavage of C‐terminal domains revealed the structure of the active form of BlEst2. Upon activation, BlEst2 showed a markedly elevated hydrolytic activity. This observation implies that the intramolecular C‐terminal domain serves as a regulatory intramolecular inhibitor. Interestingly, despite exhibiting esterase‐like activity, BlEst2 structural characteristics align more closely with lipases. This suggests that BlEst2 could potentially represent a previously unrecognized subgroup within the realm of carboxyl ester hydrolases.
ZrB2‐based ultrahigh‐temperature ceramic with various SiC particle size: Microstructure, thermodynamical behavior, and mechanical properties
Authors: Irom Elnaz , Zakeri Mohammad , Razavi Mansour , Farvizi Mohammad
Published: July 2024

This study investigated the influences of WC and HfB2 additives along with SiC reinforcement (with various particle sizes) on densification, microstructure, and mechanical properties of ZrB2–SiC composites. The results showed that WC and HfB2 addition formed a solid solution of (Zr,W,Hf)B2 with a core–shell structure, whereas the remaining WC transformed into WB. Moreover, nano‐sized SiC caused a much better impact on densification compared to micro‐sized SiC. A small fraction of localized phases like ZrC, HfB, and (Hf,Zr)C in the form of solid solution were also formed. The maximum room temperature flexural strength and the fracture toughness of the sample containing 150 nm SiC and 8.9 wt.% WB were measured to be 682  17 MPa and 6.5  .3 MPa m1/2, respectively.
Social participation classification and activities in association with health outcomes among older adults: Results from a scoping review
Authors: Zhang Huijing , Hao Xiaonan , Qin Yuan , Yang Yuhang , Zhao Xuetong , Wu Shuang , Li Kun
Published: July 2024

Aims

The aim of this study is to summarize the characteristics of social participation classification and examine the association between activities and health outcomes among older adults.

Design

Scoping review.

Data Sources

Eight databases (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, The Cochrane Library, Embase, ProQuest, Psychological Information Database, PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science) were searched. Reference lists of relevant social participation reviews were also considered.

Methods

This study applied a five‐stage methodological framework. A narrative synthesis summarized social participation classification and activities and their associations with health outcomes among older adults (≥65 years) living at home, in the community or in nursing residences.

Results

Forty‐two articles published between 1975 and 2022 were selected. Four classification criteria of social participation were extracted and summarized from these studies. Based on the depth and breadth of social interactions, this review proposed a four‐level classification schema. A lower risk of mortality and less visual impairment were associated with participation in level‐one, level‐three or level‐four activities, whereas less depression, less pain and better cognitive function were linked to participation in level‐three or level‐four activities.

Conclusion

Future studies should provide a clear definition, establish classification criteria for participation and properly select activity forms while considering both subjective and objective dimensions.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

The results could provide data for designing targeted social participation interventions to improve specific health outcomes among older adults.

Impact

This review could help researchers examine the role of social participation activities in specific health outcomes. Moreover, a proposed classification of social participation activities would benefit researchers and community nurses in discerning the similarities and differences among activities.

Reporting Method

This study adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses—Extension for Scoping Reviews guideline.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Prevalence of dental caries among children and adolescents with intellectual disability in India: A scoping review
Authors: Philip Philcy , Prasanna Praveen , Vijaya Remi Ravi , Samuel Reena , George Willy T. , Joseph Martina Shalini Arul , Lim Mathew , Armstrong Gregory , Grills Nathan
Published: July 2024

Background

Children with intellectual and developmental disabilities are at a higher risk of developing dental caries. Few scoping reviews have been conducted in India to understand their issues. We aimed to summarise the distribution and risk factors of dental caries among children and adolescents with intellectual disabilities in India.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted based on the Arksey O Malley framework. Quality assessment of studies, descriptive and thematic analyses were also conducted.

Results

We charted, collated, and summarised from four databases. Thirty‐one studies met the study criteria consisting of children and adolescents with intellectual disabilities. Median caries prevalence was 70%, decayed missing and fIlled permenant teeth (DMFT) was 2.4, decayed missing and filled decidous teeth (dmft) was 2.36, and DMFS was 3.7. Major determinants were the severity of disability, socioeconomic status and parents' education. Oral care and dental visits were inadequate.

Conclusion

Further exploration is required to improve access and reduce caries experience and prevalence among children with intellectual and developmental disabilities in India.
Prognostic implications of residual mild coarctation gradient after interventional repair
Authors: Zhu Wenhao , Xia Zhiyuan , Zhou Congcong , Wan Junyi , Wang Jingyu , Li Yihang , Zhang Jingnan , Henein Michael , Fang Fang , Zhang Gejun
Published: July 2024

There is limited data on the prognostic implications of residual mild coarctation (RMC) in patients with repaired native coarctation of the aorta (CoA). To explore the association of RMC with mid‐term comorbidities in post‐interventional patients, and the predictive value of the residual pressure gradient. The authors retrospectively analyzed 79 native CoA patients who received successful intervention at our hospital between October 2010 and June 2023. The outcomes of the study were late arterial hypertension (either raised blood pressure or commencement of hypotensive medications) only in normotensive patients at early follow‐up and the composite mid‐term comorbidities including new‐onset aortic injury, re‐stenosis, and re‐intervention. At a median follow‐up of 60 months, late hypertension and mid‐term comorbidities occurred in 16 (28.1%) and nine (11.4%) patients, respectively. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression analysis identified invasive peak systolic CoA pressure gradient (PSPG) as the best independent predictor of both outcomes. The maximally selected rank statistics indicated 10 mm Hg as the best PSPG cut‐off value for predicting late hypertension. Compared to patients with PSPG < 11 mm Hg, the cumulative event rates of both outcomes were higher in those with PSPG ≥ 11 mm Hg (log‐rank test, p < .001 for both endpoints). PSPG ≥ 11 mm Hg was proved to be the independent predictor of late hypertension with a significantly increased risk. In patients with non‐surgical CoA repair, the post‐interventional RMC and PSPG ≥11 mm Hg are important predictors of clinical comorbidities at mid‐term follow‐up.
Association between help‐seeking and motivation for completing a couple relationship education program across service modality
Authors: Hodge Violet , Gao Ruiqin , Carlson Ryan G. , Barden Sejal M. , Taylor Dalena Dillman
Published: July 2024

Levels of motivation and help‐seeking impact the effectiveness of couple relationship education (CRE), as those with greater help‐seeking and motivation are more likely to attend more sessions and remain engaged. Less is known about what impacts the association between motivation and help‐seeking between partners in a couple engaging in CRE. The current study aims to examine (a) the effect of couples' self‐stigma for help‐seeking on their own or partner's motivation to complete the relationship education program and (b) whether the effects differ between service modality (i.e., online and in‐person). We sampled 276 heterosexual couples who participated in a relationship education program. A multiple‐group actor–partner interdependence model analysis revealed that women and men with higher self‐stigma for seeking help exhibited lower motivation to complete the program in both settings. Higher self‐stigma in men for help‐seeking significantly enhanced the motivation of their female partners to complete the online relationship education program.
Climate disasters and processing of green patents
Authors: Guo Guangyuan , Hu Dongmin , Wang Xiaohu
Published: July 2024

Using Chinese data, this paper reveals that climate disaster events have a positive impact on the granting of green invention patents. The occurrence of climate disasters leads the patent‐granting officials to overestimate the likelihood of disaster recurrence, strengthens their perception of environmental protection as urgent, and consequently increases the number of patents that they grant. Salience bias, the tendency to overestimate probabilities due to the occurrence of salient events, is widely studied in psychology and behavioral finance. This paper extends this research by examining the influence of salience bias on people's behavior in processing green invention patents, with a specific focus on climate disaster events in Beijing, the headquarters of China's patent examination authority. In addition to the overall positive impact on granted patent numbers, the paper finds that (i) the influence of salience bias is temporary, with a more pronounced effect on energy‐saving patents than on other categories  of patents, and (ii) the primary effect is on green invention patents filed by firms in Beijing, with the effect of salience bias rapidly diminishing as the distance of the application city from Beijing increases.
Good Measures: Developing a Process for Authentic Assessment Creation in Food Education
Authors: Gomez Paulina , Sutter Carolyn
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

This paper presents the process taken by a nonprofit educational organization to create authentic evaluation tools for Food Education in K‐12 schools. Development was a collaborative effort between organization staff and teachers during an Evaluation Summit. The program background, development of the Summit, and plans for post‐Summit work continuation are described. The Summit included 14 teacher participants (3‐4 per grade band in preK‐1, 2‐5, 6‐8, 9‐12).

METHODS

The process of tool development was captured via direct observations and analysis of artifacts (eg, participants' brainstorming chart paper, online development documents) to identify themes in successful approaches and challenges. Additional post‐Summit activities were also captured via surveys and artifacts. Outcomes of this work are outlined, including the challenges in carrying out the creation of authentic assessments that accurately reflect the classroom teaching experience, and the value of in‐person community building in the Food Education space.

RESULTS

Key findings relate to the importance of in‐person collaboration amongst teachers, centering students in evaluation, and equity and accessibility in tool development.

CONCLUSIONS

Although outlining challenges and outcomes was not an a priori goal of this work, it provides important information for others working in the education nonprofit space—especially as it pertains to new approaches to classroom evaluation.
The role of politicians' perceptual accuracy of voter opinions in their reelection
Authors: Hug Simon , Varone Frédéric , Helfer Luzia , Walgrave Stefaan , Soontjens Karolin , Sheffer Lior
Published: July 2024

Political representation can be described as a process brought about via an electoral and a perceptual path. Drawing on original survey data on the perceptual accuracy of elected representatives in Belgium, Canada and Switzerland, this study explores whether and how the two paths are connected. It shows, first, that representatives who more accurately perceive voters' opinion are more likely to be re‐elected, suggesting that perceptual accuracy impacts the electoral path to representation. Second, representatives who are electorally safe hold less accurate perceptions of voters' policy preferences, meaning that the electoral path impacts the perceptual path. In all, the study provides evidence for the role of politicians' perceptual accuracy in their electoral career: voters sanction those representatives who are not sufficiently acquainted with their preferences, and representatives who fear to be voted out of office put more effort in getting acquainted with what voters want.
English learners’ beliefs about L2 speaking fluency: Insights from elicited metaphor analysis
Authors: Naghavian Mohammad
Published: July 2024

Second language (L2) learners hold different learning beliefs that influence their interpretation of classroom experiences and their L2 learning process. Developing a thorough understanding of such beliefs is therefore imperative. This article reports the representations of Iranian English‐as‐a‐foreign‐language (EFL) learners’ beliefs about L2 speaking fluency as revealed by elicited metaphors and follow‐up interviews. A group of 24 Iranian EFL learners majoring in teaching English as a foreign language were asked to conceptualize L2 speaking fluency through metaphor. Learners’ metaphorical representations were examined using metaphor analysis and organized into eight metaphor themes through thematic analysis. The findings suggest that metaphor is a suitable tool for gaining insight into learners’ beliefs about L2 speaking fluency and capturing its complex, multifaceted nature. Various aspects were conceptualized, which revealed that learners had a deep understanding of L2 speaking fluency and could represent its multifaceted nature in the learning process. Additionally, this research sheds light on contextual factors that might contribute to learners’ beliefs. The findings fill a gap in research concerning EFL learners’ beliefs about L2 speaking fluency and have useful implications for L2 teachers, learners, and researchers.
Heat stress transcription factors as the central molecular rheostat to optimize plant survival and recovery from heat stress
Authors: Bakery Ayat , Vraggalas Stavros , Shalha Boushra , Chauhan Harsh , Benhamed Moussa , Fragkostefanakis Sotirios
Published: July 2024

Heat stress transcription factors (HSFs) are the core regulators of the heat stress (HS) response in plants. HSFs are considered as a molecular rheostat: their activities define the response intensity, incorporating information about the environmental temperature through a network of partner proteins. A prompted activation of HSFs is required for survival, for example the de novo synthesis of heat shock proteins. Furthermore, a timely attenuation of the stress response is necessary for the restoration of cellular functions and recovery from stress. In an ever‐changing environment, the balance between thermotolerance and developmental processes such as reproductive fitness highlights the importance of a tightly tuned response. In many cases, the response is described as an ON/OFF mode, while in reality, it is very dynamic. This review compiles recent findings to update existing models about the HSF‐regulated HS response and address two timely questions: How do plants adjust the intensity of cellular HS response corresponding to the temperature they experience? How does this adjustment contribute to the fine‐tuning of the HS and developmental networks? Understanding these processes is crucial not only for enhancing our basic understanding of plant biology but also for developing strategies to improve crop resilience and productivity under stressful conditions.
A Novel Deformity Correction Manipulation System for Better Correction of Large Thoracic Scoliosis
Authors: Huang Yong , Zhu Ce , Wang Yongliang , Feng Ganjun , Liu Limin
Published: July 2024

Objective

Treating patients with large thoracic scoliosis (between 70° and 100°) poses technical challenges, particularly with traditional correction techniques (TCT). To address this, we developed a novel deformity correction manipulation system (DCMS) aimed at reducing surgical complexity and trauma. This study aims to assess the safety and effectiveness of DCMS in treating large thoracic scoliosis.

Methods

From January 2016 to June 2021, 76 patients with large thoracic scoliosis were included in this retrospective study. The patients were divided into two groups: DCMS (n = 34) and TCT (n = 42). Basic patient data including age at surgery, sex, etiology, Risser sign, flexibility of the main thoracic curve, instrumented levels, number of screws, duration of hospital stay, and follow‐up time were collected and analyzed. Radiographic and clinical outcomes, as measured by various radiographic parameters and Scoliosis Research Society‐30 (SRS‐30) scores, were retrospectively analyzed and compared between the two groups. Adverse events were also documented. Statistical analyses were performed using two‐tailed independent t‐tests, chi‐square tests, and Fisher's exact test.

Results

The DCMS group exhibited significantly shorter operative times, reduced blood loss, and shorter hospital stays compared to the TCT group. However, there were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of age at surgery, sex, etiology, Risser sign, flexibility of the main curve, instrumented levels, number of screws, and follow‐up time. While preoperative major curves were statistically similar between the two groups, the DCMS group achieved a superior correction rate compared to the TCT group (74.2% ± 8.8% vs 68.1% ± 10.5%). No significant differences were observed in other radiographic parameters, SRS‐30 scores, or the incidence of adverse events.

Conclusion

The application of DCMS resulted in shorter operative times, reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and greater curve correction compared to TCT. DCMS proves to be a safe and effective technique for treating large thoracic curves.
Determinism, deliberation, and responsibility
Authors: Audi Robert
Published: July 2024

In appraising human actions, an important consideration is whether they are free. If they are compelled, this may be excusatory; if controlled by someone other than the agent, this may mitigate; and if selfishly motivated, this may invalidate excuses. Moral appraisals of action by non‐philosophers do not normally consider whether it can be free under determinism. Metaphysical inquiry about action, by contrast, seems incomplete if it does not consider this. Are there two free will problems, one normative and one metaphysical? If so, they share such terms as ‘could’ and ‘could not’, and thoughtful non‐philosophers question their own normative assumptions once they understand the metaphysical problem determinism poses for the philosophy of action. This paper distinguishes metaphysical from action‐theoretic elements of the free will problem but also connects the metaphysical issues with normative questions about responsibility; it critically appraises some major metaphysical arguments concerning free action; and—to the extent possible in a single paper—it provides a positive account of free action neutral toward determinism.
Unaffordable, untrustworthy, or unnecessary? Reasons for foregoing building, home contents, and comprehensive car insurance in disaster‐prone Australia
Authors: Bourova Evgenia , Ramsay Ian , Ali Paul
Published: July 2024

In Australia, building, home contents, and comprehensive car insurance facilitate the accumulation of assets associated with rational, responsible citizenship while promising protection in case of events such as fire, flooding, car accident, or theft. Yet many Australians lack these insurance products, risking exposure to devastating financial losses when disaster strikes. This article compares the findings of online surveys of insured and uninsured Australians and explores the factors driving some to forego insurance coverage. Our findings show that inability to afford premiums is a major driver of noninsurance in Australia, particularly for people with low levels of disposable income and assets, or those living in areas affected by rising disaster risk. Yet the decision to forego insurance is also influenced by attitudes to financial matters. Australians who forego insurance have lower levels of trust in insurance and are less likely to consider themselves under a social obligation to be insured. However, contrary to portrayals of the uninsured as risk‐takers, the decision to forego coverage does not appear to be driven by lesser risk aversion among uninsured Australians relative to those who do purchase building, home contents, and comprehensive car insurance policies.