bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heritage conceptions, perceptions and learning context: research on primary and secondary schools in Andorra
Authors: Ballesté Marc , Fernández Ares , Yáñez de Aldecoa Cristina , Solé-Llussà Anna
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Heritage education is currently a consolidated discipline, which advocate for a holistic vision of heritage. In this sense, this research aims to study the heritage conceptions, perceptions and learning context amongst primary and secondary students, comprehensively and fully.

Design/methodology/approach

This research focuses in Andorra, a country in the Pyrenees, where there are three different education systems. This allowed the study to obtain a sample of 1,235 primary and secondary students, throughout a structured questionnaire that was previously designed and validated ad hoc.

Findings

In general terms, the results show that around half of the students have a holistic view of heritage; however, natural and historical elements are highlighted as the ones they learn from the most, especially through visits in situ. Moreover, the students’ perceptions of heritage show that over a 90% of students believe it is important to safeguard because it is connected to nature and culture preservation.

Originality/value

This research is included in a greater scope project that also considers other agents in the education community that belong to formal and non-formal spheres. In addition, it is the first investigation where the field of heritage education is studied globally in an entire country, considering primary and secondary education students.
The effect of tailored reciprocity on information provision in an investigative interview
Authors: Weiher Lynn , Winters Christina , Taylor Paul , Luther Kirk , Watson Steven James
Published: August 2024

Purpose

In their study of reciprocity in investigative interviews, Matsumoto and Hwang (2018) found that offering interviewees water prior to the interview enhanced observer-rated rapport and positively affected information provision. This paper aims to examine whether tailoring the item towards an interviewee’s needs would further enhance information provision. This paper hypothesised that interviewees given a relevant item prior to the interview would disclose more information than interviewees given an irrelevant item or no item.

Design/methodology/approach

Participants (n = 85) ate pretzels to induce thirst, engaged in a cheating task with a confederate and were interviewed about their actions after receiving either no item, an irrelevant item to their induced thirst (pen and paper) or a relevant item (water).

Findings

This paper found that receiving a relevant item had a significant impact on information provision, with participants who received water providing the most details, and significantly more than participants that received no item.

Research limitations/implications

The findings have implications for obtaining information during investigative interviews and demonstrate a need for research on the nuances of social reciprocity in investigative interviewing.

Practical implications

The findings have implications for obtaining information during investigative interviews and demonstrate a need for research on the nuances of social reciprocity in investigative interviewing.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to experimentally test the effect of different item types upon information provision in investigative interviews.
Finite element analysis of Cu-water nanofluid flow and heat transfer in a dynamically bulging enclosure
Authors: Chuhan Imran Shabir , Li Jing , Ahmed Muhammad Shafiq , Jamil Muhammad Ashfaq , Ejaz Ahsan
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The main purpose of this study is to analyze the heat transfer phenomena in a dynamically bulging enclosure filled with Cu-water nanofluid. This study examines the convective heat transfer process induced by a bulging area considered a heat source, with the enclosure's side walls having a low temperature and top and bottom walls being treated as adiabatic. Various factors, such as the Rayleigh number (Ra), nanoparticle volume fraction, Darcy effects, Hartmann number (Ha) and effects of magnetic inclination, are analyzed for their impact on the flow behavior and temperature distribution.

Design/methodology/approach

The finite element method (FEM) is employed for simulating variations in flow and temperature after validating the results. Solving the non-linear partial differential equations while incorporating the modified Darcy number (10−3 ≤ Da ≤ 10−1), Ra (103 ≤ Ra ≤ 105) and Ha (0 ≤ Ha ≤ 100) as the dimensionless operational parameters.

Findings

This study demonstrates that in enclosures with dynamically positioned bulges filled with Cu-water nanofluid, heat transfer is significantly influenced by the bulge location and nanoparticle volume fraction, which alter flow and heat patterns. The varying impact of magnetic fields on heat transfer depends on the Rayleigh and Has.

Practical implications

The geometry configurations employed in this research have broad applications in various engineering disciplines, including heat exchangers, energy storage, biomedical systems and food processing.

Originality/value

This research provides insights into how different shapes of the heated bulging area impact the hydromagnetic convection of Cu-water nanofluid flow in a dynamically bulging-shaped porous system, encompassing curved surfaces and various multi-physical conditions.
Debt advice in Europe: a search of the good practices to fight over-indebtedness
Authors: Tanda Alessandra , Vandone Daniela
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to provide an overview of the current state of debt advisory services and good practices in Europe.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors examine how debt advisory services are organised in different European countries and how they can be used to address the phenomenon of over-indebtedness.

Findings

Debt advisory services seem to be varied and fragmented. There are few good practices that stand out, whereas in some countries there are no services available at all.

Originality/value

This study provides an updated and comprehensive review of good practices and suggests some measures for evaluating the effectiveness of debt advisory services.
Incorporating density‐dependent regulation into impact assessments for seabirds
Authors: Merrall Eve , Green Jonathan A. , Robinson Leonie A. , Butler Adam , Wood Matt J. , Newell Mark A. , Black Julie , Daunt Francis , Horswill Catharine
Published: August 2024

Many industries are required to perform population viability analysis (PVA) during the consenting process for new developments to establish potential impacts on protected populations. However, these assessments rarely account for density‐dependent regulation of demographic rates. Excluding density‐dependent regulation from PVA‐based impact assessments is often assumed to provide a maximum estimate of impact and therefore offer a precautionary approach to assessment. However, there is also concern that this practice may unnecessarily impede the development of important industries, such as offshore renewable energy.

In this study, we assess density‐dependent regulation of breeding success in 31 populations of seabird. We then quantify the strength and form of this regulation using eight different formulations. Finally, we use PVA to examine how each formulation influences the recreation of observed dynamics (i.e. model validation), as well as the predicted absolute and relative population response to an extrinsic threat (i.e. model projection).

We found evidence of both negative (n = 3) and positive (n = 5) regulation of seabird breeding success. In populations exhibiting negative regulation, excluding density‐dependent regulation from PVA‐based impact assessment allowed uncontrolled population growth, such that model outcomes became biologically implausible. By contrast, in populations exhibiting positive regulation, excluding density‐dependent regulation provided an appropriate reconstruction of observed dynamics, but population decline was underestimated in some populations. We find that multiple formulations of density dependence perform comparably at the detection, validation and projection stages of analysis. However, we tentatively recommend using a log‐linear or Weibull distribution to describe density‐dependent regulation of seabird breeding success in impact assessments to balance accuracy with caution. Finally, we show that relative PVA metrics of impact assessment cannot necessarily be used to overcome PVA misspecification by assuming density independence in positively regulated populations.

Synthesis and applications: We suggest that a density‐dependent approach when performing PVA‐based assessments for seabird populations will prevent biologically unrealistic, unconstrained population growth and therefore ensure meaningful PVA metrics in populations experiencing negative regulation. It will also maintain a precautionary approach for populations experiencing positive regulation, crucial when estimating impacts for these more vulnerable populations. These conclusions have immediate international application within the consenting processes for marine industries.
Making organ donation after circulatory death routine: Preserving patienthood and reproducing ways of dying in the intensive care unit
Authors: Cooper Jessie , Murphy Zivarna
Published: August 2024

Controlled organ donation after circulatory death (DCD) was re‐introduced in the UK in 2008, in efforts to increase rates of organs for transplant. Following reintroduction, there were debates about the ethics of DCD, including whether potential DCD donors receive end‐of‐life care which is in their best interests. Since this time, DCD has become a routine donor pathway in the NHS. In this article, we present findings from an ethnographic study examining the everyday practices of DCD in two English Trusts. Drawing on the concept of death brokering and Bea’s (2020) call to consider organ donation as embedded and routine practice within health care, we look at how DCD is integrated into end‐of‐life care in intensive care units. We show how DCD is made routine at the end‐of‐life via the practices of health professionals who create an active separation between discussions about death and donation; reproduce usual ways of doing things in end‐of‐life care; and respect the distinction between patient/donor, dying and death. In doing so, we argue these function to preserve the patienthood of the potential donor, ensuring DCD operates as an integrated part, and culturally accepted form of, good end‐of‐life care for potential donors, their relatives, and health professionals alike.
Compound crisis communication and household preparedness: Examining the effects of evidence type and crisis message fatigue
Authors: Islam Khairul , Sopory Pradeep , Seeger Matthew W.
Published: August 2024

While existing crisis management research primarily approaches crisis communication from a single‐event perspective, this study provides initial evidence for communication about compound crises. To this purpose, we conducted a nationally representative survey experiment among U.S. residents (N = 670) to examine the effects of communication about compound crisis events on message fatigue and household preparedness. The study did not find support for the negative effects of communication about compound crises on message‐induced crisis fatigue and household preparedness intention. An additional analysis revealed that effects of the messages about compound crisis events are contingent upon the participants' level of past crisis experience, past crisis preparedness, accumulated fatigue from previous crises, and the type of evidence presented. Our findings revealed that individuals with higher past crisis experience exhibited higher crisis message fatigue and greater household preparedness intention. However, caution is warranted when interpreting these findings. The respondents' perceived distinction between compound and single crisis preparedness lacked conceptual clarity, possibly due to the ongoing influence of the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Nexus between mineral rents and environmental sustainability: The role of economic policy uncertainty
Authors: Zhang Dangli , Zhao Fuming , Hon‐Wei Leow , Nguyen Nhat Tan , Al‐Naimi Ahmad A.
Published: August 2024

One of the most contentious issues discussed in international forums is environmental deterioration, which is seen as a major global problem. Consequently, while a number of carbon emission (CO2) drivers have been covered in the literature so far, little is known about the moderating effect of economic policy uncertainty (EPU) on the link between CO2 emissions and mineral rent (MINR). Therefore, for the BRICS nations, this document serves as a representation of the earlier effort to investigate the moderating effect of EPU on the link between mineral rents and environmental deterioration. The aim of this study is to investigate the interaction effect of MINR and EPU on CO2 for BRICS from 1990 to 2022. For this purpose, we use the panel autoregressive distributed lag model to ascertain the long‐ and short‐term effects of EPU and MINR on CO2. The long‐term findings imply that MINR increases 2. In contrast, the moderation effect of EPU aggravates the impact of MINR on emissions. This study makes policy recommendations for accomplishing sustainable development. The governments of these nations may solve the problem of environmental degradation by assuring political stability, adopting dependable macroeconomic policies, and creating policies that are so adaptable that they can be readily controlled or utilized to handle unforeseen environmental concerns in the future.
Effects of the covalent conjugation between caffeic acid and peanut allergen protein Ara h1 on the antigenicity and structure of Ara h1
Authors: Wang Na , Liu Qingqing , Shi Qilei , Wang Fan , Xu Chao , Ren Hongtao , Yu Qiuying
Published: August 2024

Ara h1 was the highest content of peanut allergen protein, identified as a biomarker of peanut allergen. In this study, Ara h1 was covalently complexed with caffeic acid (CA) to research the effects of covalent conjugation on the antigenicity and protein structural properties of Ara h1. After the covalent complexing of Ara h1 and CA, the IgG‐binding capacity of Ara h1 was reduced compared with that of control Ara h1. Moreover, the structure of Ara h1 changed from ordered to disordered, the number of intermolecular hydrogen bonds decreased, and some hydrophobic groups were exposed or hydrophobic peptides were released. The carboxyl group in CA reacted with the amino group in Ara h1. The digestibility of Ara h1–CA was increased. The antigenicity of Ara h1–CA was undetectable after 30 min of digestion in vitro. These findings can serve as a reference for further research on hypoallergenic peanut products.
Innovative insights into the roasting‐driven transformation of volatile compounds and quality markers in flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) oil
Authors: Chen Zhanglian , Yang Jiawei , Fu Yuxin , Wan Yilai , Liu Wendi , Wang Ting , Fu Xizhe , Liu Wenyu , Wei Changqing
Published: August 2024

Roasting is essential for developing the characteristic aroma of flaxseed oil (FSO), yet its impact on oil quality remains underexplored. This study employed headspace‐gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry coupled with multivariate analysis to elucidate the dynamic changes in volatile compounds and quality characteristics of FSO subjected to varying roasting temperatures. Our findings revealed that seven key aroma compounds, identified through the variable importance in the projection scores of partial least square‐discrimination analysis models and relative aroma activity value, served as molecular markers indicative of distinct roasting temperatures. These compounds included 2,5‐dimethylpyrazine, 2‐pentylfuran, (E)‐2‐pentenal, 2‐ethyl‐3,6‐dimethylpyrazine, heptanal, octanal, and 2‐hexenal. Notably, roasting at 200°C was found to enhance oil stability and antioxidant capacity, with phenolic compounds and Maillard reaction products playing synergistic roles in bolstering these qualities. Network analysis further uncovered significant correlations between these key aroma compounds and quality characteristics, offering novel perspectives for assessing FSO quality under diverse roasting conditions. This research not only enriched our understanding of the roasting process's impact on FSO but also provided valuable guidance for the optimization of industrial roasting practices. This study would provide important practical applications in aroma regulation and process optimization of flaxseed oil.

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Dollars and Sense: Exposing Unfair Pricing*
Authors: Byrne David P.
Published: August 2024

This paper explores “price gouging” in oligopolistic industries. Drawing from Australian examples, it illustrates how determining who is responsible for market power‐related inefficiencies—whether from consumer or producer behaviour—is fundamental to defining and identifying price gouging. I then discuss how recent competition policy reforms in Australia and global changes in data availability and artificial intelligence shape firms' willingness and ability to price gouge. I close by discussing the future role of government in enabling pro‐competitive pricing in our increasingly digital economy through information aggregation and market design.
Trading off managerial and investor uncertainty in firm disclosure: Evidence from R&D investments and management guidance
Authors: Dube Svenja
Published: August 2024

Classic disclosure theory suggests that investor uncertainty increases the probability of discretionary disclosure, while managerial uncertainty decreases this disclosure. Because R&D projects are inherently risky, R&D‐intensive firms face high managerial uncertainty as well as high investor uncertainty. This paper empirically examines how R&D intensity impacts the provision, horizon, and content of management earnings guidance. To address endogeneity concerns, state‐level R&D tax credits serve as an instrumental variable for R&D intensity. I find that high R&D firms do not provide less earnings guidance than low R&D firms. However, they issue more quarterly guidance but less annual guidance. This substitution strengthens when there is high managerial uncertainty about the success of R&D projects. Consistent with litigation risk leading to asymmetric disclosure incentives, the decrease in annual earnings guidance is concentrated in positive guidance. Overall, the results imply that firms modify the horizon and content of their earnings guidance by substituting long‐term positive guidance with short‐term guidance when managerial uncertainty discourages the issuance of the former.
Fluorescence imaging in reducing anastomotic leak after left‐sided colorectal resections: a systematic review and updated meta‐analysis
Authors: Kazi Mufaddal , Ajith Atul , Bhoyar Abhiram , Yelamanchi Raghav
Published: August 2024

Background

The objective of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to pool randomized trials of patients undergoing left‐sided colorectal anastomosis, comparing the use of fluorescence perfusion imaging versus visual inspection in reducing anastomotic leaks.

Methods

Databases searched included PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, CINHAL (EBSCO), and Google Scholar based on the concepts: randomized, colorectal, anastomotic leak, and fluorescence imaging. The risk of bias was assessed using RoB2 and the certainty of the evidence with the GRADE Pro tool. The analysis used the log odds ratio for dichotomous data with 95% confidence intervals. Back‐transformation of the log odds to odds ratio was performed for the summary of findings. All syntheses used the Random‐effects model.

Results

Six randomized trials were included with 1949 patients and 204 events (leaks). Three trials included exclusively rectal cancer patients, while the other three involved benign and malignant pathologies of the sigmoid and rectum. The use of ostomy and preoperative radiation was variable. None of the studies had a high risk of bias. The pooled odds ratio for anastomotic leak reduction with Indocyanine Green (ICG) fluorescence was 0.586 (95% CI: 0.434–0.792). An absolute reduction of 4.7% in leak rates was observed, with no statistical heterogeneity (I2 = 0; p = 0.529). Due to clinical heterogeneity, the quality of evidence was rated moderate.

Conclusions

The use of ICG is associated with reduced leak rates following left‐sided colorectal anastomosis with moderate confidence. ICG may be considered a standard of care given the clinically significant benefit in decreasing anastomotic leaks.
Evaluating the evidence for genotype‐informed Bayesian dosing of tacrolimus in children undergoing solid organ transplantation: A systematic literature review
Authors: Khatri Dhrita , Felmingham Ben , Moore Claire , Lazaraki Smaro , Stenta Tayla , Collier Lane , Elliott David A. , Metz David , Conyers Rachel
Published: August 2024

Tacrolimus, a calcineurin inhibitor, is a highly effective immunosuppressant used in solid organ transplantation (SOT). However, it is characterized by a narrow therapeutic range and high inter‐patient variability in pharmacokinetics. Standard weight‐based dosing followed by empiric dose titration is suboptimal in controlling drug concentrations, increasing risk of rejection or toxicity, particularly in the initial months post transplantation. This review explores the potential of combined pre‐transplant genotyping and pharmacokinetic (PK) modelling to improve tacrolimus dosing in paediatric SOT recipients. A systematic search of Medline, Embase and Cochrane databases identified studies published between March 2013 and March 2023 that investigated genotype‐ and PK model‐informed tacrolimus dosing in children post‐SOT. The Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale assessed study quality. Seven studies encompassing paediatric kidney, heart, liver and lung transplants reported using genotype and model‐informed dosing. A combination of clinical and genetic factors significantly impacts tacrolimus clearance and thus initial dose recommendation. Body size, transplant organ and co‐medications were consistently important, while either time post‐transplant or haematocrit emerged in some studies. Several models were identified, however, with limitations evident in some and with absence of evidence for their effectiveness in optimizing initial and subsequent dosing. This review highlights the development of PK models in paediatric SOT that integrate genotype and clinical covariates to personalize early tacrolimus dosing. While promising, prospective studies are needed to validate and confirm their effectiveness in improving time to therapeutic concentrations and reducing under‐ or overexposure. This approach has the potential to optimize tacrolimus therapy in paediatric SOT, thereby improving outcomes.
A cost‐effective tool to standardize the scratch assay for cell migration
Authors: Bucchi Cristina , Baeza Josefa , Guarda Jaime , Bucchi Ana , Martínez‐Rodríguez Paulina
Published: August 2024

Background

The scratch assay is commonly used in cell biology to evaluate cell migration; however, it is not a standardized method; it produces highly variable gap dimensions. We design a printable device, comprising a single wounding tool and a guide, and compared the gap produced by our device and the traditional method. The deviceis printable in a standard 3D printer. Cells were seeded on a 24‐well plate. After reaching full confluency, a gap was created using the traditional method (scratch assay with a pipette tip), a pipette tip and the guide of the device, or the single wounding tool and the guide. The gaps were observed for up to 48 h under a light microscope and analyzed.

Results

The results show that the traditional method produces irregular and not straight gaps, and had the worst cell migration rates compared to the other groups. The wounding tool produced scrape signs at the well surface.

Conclusion

The guide and pipette tip delivered the best results for the scratch assay.

Significance

The use of the guide and the pipette tip for the scratch assay allows allows to perform reproducible cell migration experiments.
Dynamic self‐regulation and coregulation of respiratory sinus arrhythmia in mother–child and father–child interactions: Moderating effects of proximal and distal stressors
Authors: Li Longfeng , Lunkenheimer Erika
Published: August 2024

This study examined how proximal and distal familial stressors influenced the real‐time, dynamic individual and dyadic regulation of respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) in mother–preschooler and father–preschooler interactions in at‐risk families (N = 94, Mage = 3.03 years, 47% males, 77% White, 20% Latinx, data collected 2013–2017). Proximal stressors were operationalized as changing task demands (baseline, challenge, recovery) across a dyadic puzzle task. Distal stressors were measured as parent‐reported stressful life events. Multilevel models revealed that greater proximal and distal stressors were related to weaker dynamic self‐regulation of RSA in mothers, fathers, and children, and more discordant mother–child and father–child coregulation of RSA. Findings affirm that stress is transmitted across levels and persons to compromise real‐time regulatory functioning in early, developmentally formative caregiver–child interactions.
The declining affordability of dental care in New Zealand from 1978 to 2023
Authors: Gage Ryan , Broadbent Jonathan , Leung William , Lee Martin , Sullivan Trudy
Published: August 2024

Background

In the early 2020s, nearly half of New Zealand adults reported that cost of treatment had prevented them from accessing dental care, with higher rates among Māori, Pasifika and individuals living in the most deprived areas. Unaffordable dental care may be explained by a rise in dental service fees over time relative to personal income, as documented in New Zealand between 1978 and 1993. However, there have been no contemporary estimates in New Zealand of how the affordability of dental care has changed. The aims of this study were to analyse the change in dental treatment fees and the personal income of New Zealanders from 1978 to 2023 and to explore differences in affordability of dental care by ethnicity.

Methods

Average fees for dental treatments were sourced from surveys completed by practising New Zealand dentists. Earnings (from 1978) and personal income data (full population from 2000 and by ethnicity from 2008) were sourced from Statistics NZ and NZ Official Yearbooks. Inflation‐adjusted changes in average fees, weekly personal earnings and income were calculated as a percentage change from 1978 levels for fees and earnings and from 2000 for personal income.

Results

For the five dental treatments with data available from 1978 to 2023, fees increased in the range of 75%–236%, while earnings increased by 46% over the same period. Fees for other treatments (with data available from 1981 to 2009) similarly increased and mostly surpassed changes in earnings. From 2008 to 2023 the overall increase in personal income (about 21% across all ethnic groups) kept pace with the rising cost of most treatments. However, due to persistent income inequalities, in 2023, Māori and Pasifika would need to spend a higher proportion of their weekly income (approximately 16% and 23% respectively) to receive the same dental treatments as NZ Europeans.

Conclusions

Fees for dental treatments have risen markedly in recent decades, more sharply than the price of other goods and services.
‘It Isn't the Child Wearing Us Out, It's the System’: Navigating Support Systems When Struggling as Foster Parents in Norway
Authors: Solvi Anette S. , Råbu Marit , Røseth Idun
Published: August 2024

Foster parents encounter significant and diverse obstacles in receiving support when caring for children affected by relational trauma and mental illness. These issues extend to their interactions with welfare systems, mental health professionals and personal networks. This study is aimed at understanding foster parents' needs in navigating the support systems and finding a balance in their responsibilities. To address this, we conducted interviews with 22 foster parents caring for children receiving mental health treatment in a specialized outpatient clinic in Norway. We present the findings as a general meaning structure comprising four interconnected constituents: (1) the challenge of being an ‘employee’ and a parent, (2) encounters marked by inadequate information, (3) wanting a closer relationship with the child welfare services and (4) feeling a need for confidential conversations and support. This study underscores foster parents' struggle with systems that fail to provide adequate child information and holistic support, highlighting a pressing need for context‐aware and tailored systemic improvements.
A High‐Scalability Graph Modification System for Large‐Scale Networks
Authors: Xu Shaobin , Sun Minghui , Qin Jun
Published: August 2024

Modifying network results is the most intuitive way to inject domain knowledge into network detection algorithms to improve their performance. While advances in computation scalability have made detecting large‐scale networks possible, the human ability to modify such networks has not scaled accordingly, resulting in a huge ‘interaction gap’. Most existing works only support navigating and modifying edges one by one in a graph visualization, which causes a significant interaction burden when faced with large‐scale networks. In this work, we propose a novel graph pattern mining algorithm based on the minimum description length (MDL) principle to partition and summarize multi‐feature and isomorphic sub‐graph matches. The mined sub‐graph patterns can be utilized as mediums for modifying large‐scale networks. Combining two traditional approaches, we introduce a new coarse‐middle‐fine graph modification paradigm (i.e. query graph‐based modification sub‐graph pattern‐based modification raw edge‐based modification). We further present a graph modification system that supports the graph modification paradigm for improving the scalability of modifying detected large‐scale networks. We evaluate the performance of our graph pattern mining algorithm through an experimental study, demonstrate the usefulness of our system through a case study, and illustrate the efficiency of our graph modification paradigm through a user study.
Precision Antiplatelet Therapy after Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (Precision PCI) Registry – Informing optimal antiplatelet strategies
Authors: Cavallari Larisa H. , Lee Craig R. , Franchi Francesco , Keeley Ellen C. , Rossi Joseph S. , Thomas Cameron D. , Gong Yan , McDonough Caitrin W. , Starostik Petr , Al Saeed Maryam J. , Been Latonya , Kulick Natasha , Malave Jean , Mulrenin Ian R. , Nguyen Anh B. , Terrell Joshua N. , Tillotson Grace , Beitelshees Amber L. , Winterstein Almut G. , Stouffer George A. , Angiolillo Dominick J.
Published: August 2024

Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) with aspirin and a P2Y12 receptor inhibitor (clopidogrel, prasugrel, or ticagrelor) is indicated after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to reduce the risk of atherothrombotic events. Approximately 30% of the US population has a CYP2C19 no‐function allele that reduces the effectiveness of clopidogrel, but not prasugrel or ticagrelor, after PCI. We have shown improved outcomes with the integration of CYP2C19 genotyping into clinical care to guide the selection of prasugrel or ticagrelor in CYP2C19 no‐function allele carriers. However, the influence of patient‐specific demographic, clinical, and other genetic factors on outcomes with genotype‐guided DAPT has not been defined. In addition, the impact of genotype‐guided de‐escalation from prasugrel or ticagrelor to clopidogrel in patients without a CYP2C19 no‐function allele has not been investigated in a diverse, real‐world clinical setting. The Precision Antiplatelet Therapy after Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (Precision PCI) Registry is a multicenter US registry of patients who underwent PCI and clinical CYP2C19 testing. The registry is enrolling a diverse population, assessing atherothrombotic and bleeding events over 12 months, collecting DNA samples, and conducting platelet function testing in a subset of patients. The registry aims to define the influence of African ancestry and other patient‐specific factors on clinical outcomes with CYP2C19‐guided DAPT, evaluate the safety and effectiveness of CYP2C19‐guided DAPT de‐escalation following PCI in a real‐world setting, and identify additional genetic influences of clopidogrel response after PCI, with the ultimate goal of establishing optimal strategies for individualized antiplatelet therapy that improves outcomes in a diverse, real‐world population.
Causal relationship of inflammatory cytokines and serum metabolites in cerebral small vessel disease: a two‐step Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Li Zidong , Miao Lu , Zhang Tianyi , Thomas Aline M. , Li Shen
Published: August 2024

Background and purpose

The aim was to investigate the causal relationships of inflammatory cytokines and serum metabolites in cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD).

Methods

Bidirectional Mendelian randomization was first conducted to screen inflammatory cytokines and serum metabolites that were associated with imaging features of CSVD, including white matter hyperintensities, recent small subcortical infarcts, cortical cerebral microinfarcts, cerebral microbleeds, lacunes and enlarged perivascular spaces. Sensitivity analyses were performed to evaluate the robustness and pleiotropy of these results. Subsequently, inflammatory cytokines and serum metabolites that were associated with CSVD were subjected to functional enrichment. Finally, mediation analysis was employed to investigate whether inflammatory cytokines or serum metabolites acted as an intermediary for the other in their causal relationship with CSVD.

Results

Of the inflammatory cytokines, five were risk factors (e.g., tumour‐necrosis‐factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand) and five (e.g., fibroblast growth factor 19) were protective factors for CSVD. Eleven serum metabolites that increased CSVD risk and 13 metabolites that decreased CSVD risk were also identified. The majority of these markers of CSVD susceptibility were lipid metabolites. Natural killer cell receptor sub‐type 2B4 was determined to act as a mediating factor of an unidentified metabolite for the enlargement of perivascular spaces.

Conclusion

Several inflammatory cytokines and serum metabolites had causal relationships with imaging features of CSVD. A natural killer cell receptor mediated in part the promotional effect of a metabolite on perivascular space enlargement.
Predictors of drug‐resistant epilepsy in childhood epilepsy syndromes: A subgroup analysis from a prospective cohort study
Authors: Ayoub Dana , Jaafar Fatima , Al‐Hajje Amal , Salameh Pascale , Jost Jeremy , Hmaimess Ghassan , Wazne Jaafar , Ismail‐Fawaz Zein , Sabbagh Sandra , Boumediene Farid , Beydoun Ahmad
Published: August 2024

Objective

Previous studies assessing factors associated with drug‐resistant epilepsy (DRE) were constrained by their amalgamation of all epilepsy syndromes in their analyses and the absence of uniform criteria for defining DRE. Our objective was to identify predictors of DRE among the four primary childhood epilepsy syndrome groups within a cohort of children with new onset seizures, using the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) definition of DRE and the recent classification of epilepsies.

Methods

This is a prospective study of 676 children with new onset seizures initiated on antiseizure medication. Patients were monitored for the occurrence of DRE according to the ILAE criteria and were categorized into one of four epilepsy groups: self‐limited focal epilepsies (SeLFEs), genetic generalized epilepsies (GGEs), developmental epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs), and focal epilepsies. Cox regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of DRE within each epilepsy group.

Results

Overall, 29.3% of children were classified as having DRE, with the highest incidence observed among children diagnosed with DEEs (77.7%), followed by focal epilepsies (31.5%). Across the entire cohort, predictors of DRE included the presence of an epileptogenic lesion, a higher pretreatment number of seizures, experiencing multiple seizure types, presence and severity of intellectual and developmental delay, myoclonus, and younger age at epilepsy onset. Within the GGEs, only a younger age at seizure onset and experiencing multiple seizure types predicted DRE. Among focal epilepsies, predictors of DRE included the presence of an epileptogenic lesion, experiencing multiple seizure types, and having a greater number of pretreatment seizures. Within the DEEs, predictors of DRE were the occurrence of tonic seizures. Predictors of DRE within SeLFEs could not be identified.

Significance

This study indicates that different epilepsy syndromes are associated with distinct predictors of drug resistance. Anticipation of drug resistance within various groups is feasible using accessible clinical variables throughout the disease course.
Social networks and reputation incentives: Does directorship prestige influence effort?
Authors: Intintoli Vincent J. , Moursli Reda M.
Published: August 2024

Using social network theory, we measure the reputation of boards and directors based on the centrality of their respective networks. Directors commit greater effort, as measured by actual director attendance rates, to directorships they consider more prestigious. Results are robust to controlling for standard proxies of reputation as well as using alternative measures of centrality to identify prestigious directorships. We find similar results when examining exogenous shocks to relative directorship rankings; effort improves for directorships that increase in ranking following the shock. Our findings outline the importance directors place on the perceived reputational value of their directorships.
Species interactions amplify functional group responses to elevated CO2 and N enrichment in a 24‐year grassland experiment
Authors: Mohanbabu Neha , Isbell Forest , Hobbie Sarah E. , Reich Peter B.
Published: August 2024

Plant functional groups (FGs) differ in their response to global changes, although species within those groups also vary in such responses. Both species and FG responses to global change are likely influenced by species interactions such as inter‐specific competition and facilitation, which are prevalent in species mixtures but not monocultures. As most studies focus on responses of plants growing in either monocultures or mixtures, but rarely both, it remains unclear how interspecific interactions in diverse ecological communities, especially among species in different FGs, modify FG responses to global changes. To address these issues, we leveraged data from a 16‐species, 24‐year perennial grassland experiment to examine plant FG biomass responses to atmospheric CO2, and N inputs at different planted diversity. FGs differed in their responses to N and CO2 treatments in monocultures. Such differences were amplified in mixtures, where N enrichment strongly increased C3 grass success at ambient CO2 and C4 grass success at elevated CO2. Legumes declined with N enrichment in mixtures at both CO2 levels and increased with elevated CO2 in the initial years of the experiment. Our results suggest that previous studies that considered responses to global changes in monocultures may underestimate biomass changes in diverse communities where interspecific interactions can amplify responses. Such effects of interspecific interactions on responses of FGs to global change may impact community composition over time and consequently influence ecosystem functions.
Matrix compositions and their impact on grain growth and strength of oxide ceramic composites
Authors: Almeida Renato S. M. , Rech Marcelo B. R. , Condi Mainardi Jéssica , Tushtev Kamen , Rezwan Kurosch
Published: August 2024

Oxide ceramic matrix composites (Ox‐CMCs) are composed of porous matrices reinforced by dense fibers to achieve high damage tolerance. It is generally assumed that their mechanical properties are fiber dominant. However, fiber strength can also be influenced by the surrounding matrix as it can affect fiber grain growth. Fiber–matrix interactions are studied in this work regarding fiber microstructural evolution and composite strength. Minicomposites containing Nextel 610 fibers and different matrix compositions (alumina, alumina–zirconia, and mullite–alumina) are evaluated after sintering and after additional heat treatment at 1200°C for 100 h. Fiber grain growth during sintering is faster in alumina matrix and slower in mullite–alumina matrix. Scanning transmission electron microscope–energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (STEM–EDX) measurements show that Si diffuses between fiber and matrix grain boundaries. This outward or inward diffusion of SiO2 leads to the respectively different grain growth kinetics. Grain growth inhibition in alumina–zirconia matrix is only observed after the longer heat treatment, suggesting that ZrO2 diffusion is slower than SiO2. The resultant composite strength depends not only on fiber properties, but also on matrix densification. Minicomposite with alumina–zirconia matrix showed higher strength, while mullite–alumina composites showed higher thermal stability. In summary, the properties of Ox‐CMCs can be tailored by adjusting the matrix composition with the used fibers.
Perceptions of game‐based education among parents during the perinatal period: A mixed studies review
Authors: Lim Cheng Yee , Chan Pao Yi , Shorey Shefaly
Published: August 2024

Background

Experiential education, particularly through game‐based approaches, has gained recognition for effectively addressing the myriad challenges faced by expectant parents.

Aim

To consolidate and synthesize the available evidence regarding expectant parents' experiences of game‐based perinatal education.

Design

A mixed studies review.

Data Sources

Six electronic databases were searched from their inception until March 2024: PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global.

Methods

This review observed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and was guided by Pluye and Hong's (2014) framework for mixed studies review. Quality appraisal of included studies was conducted using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. A convergent qualitative synthesis design for mixed studies review was adopted to analyse all findings and thematic analysis was conducted.

Findings

Three themes and 10 subthemes were generated from the eight included studies. The main themes were: (1) Exploring novel frontiers to deliver perinatal education, (2) Empowerment through play: Unveiling key insights and (3) Insights and recommendations.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that game‐based education holds promise as a valuable tool for equipping expectant parents with the necessary knowledge and skills in an engaging and immersive manner to navigate the challenging perinatal period.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

The findings suggest that game‐based education holds promise as a valuable tool for equipping expectant parents with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the challenging perinatal period. Nurses should consider incorporating or developing a game‐based curriculum to supplement current educational classes to encourage parental participation and enhance learning for perinatal education.

Reporting Method

This study adhered to the PRISMA reporting guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution.

Trial and Protocol Registration

A protocol was submitted to PROSPERO (CRD42023447527).
Phylogeography of a western North American white oak shaped by introgression and post‐Pleistocene climate change
Authors: Kanne Rande , Allen Geraldine A.
Published: August 2024

Aim

We examined range‐wide genetic variation in a widespread white oak species in western North America to determine phylogeographic patterns (including possible latitudinal gradients) and investigate their underlying causes.

Location

Western North America.

Taxon

Quercus garryana (Fagaceae).

Methods

We sampled Q. garryana at 117 locations throughout its range and related species of white oaks in 8 additional populations. We sequenced DNA from four variable intergenic plastid spacers and the ribosomal nuclear ITS region. We constructed haplotype networks and phylogenetic trees, mapped the geographical distributions of plastid haplotypes, and analysed genetic diversity patterns.

Results

We identified 25 plastid haplotypes that clustered in two major groups, each showing pronounced genetic variation with latitude. In contrast, ITS showed little or no geographical or phylogenetic variation. Quercus garryana shared several plastid haplotypes with related white oaks and was not differentiated from these species by ITS. Plastid haplotype diversity in Q. garryana was highest in the central part of its range and sharply reduced to the north. Two haplotypes (one from each haplotype group) occurred in the northern third of the range, with only one at the northern range limit. Populations at the southern range limit were characterised by distinct haplotypes.

Main Conclusions

Genetic patterns of Q. garryana have been shaped both by post‐Pleistocene climate change, interacting with features of the landscape, and by hybridisation with other white oaks. The species contains substantial genetic variation with strong spatial structuring of plastid haplotypes, indicating (1) early divergence of southern (Sierra Nevada) and northern populations, and (2) northward dispersal during the Holocene resulting in greatly reduced genetic diversity in its northern range. Species that can adjust their ranges with changing climates may remain susceptible to loss of genetic variation, potentially affecting their ability to persist in novel conditions at northern range margins.
Vertical Alveolar Ridge Regeneration by Means of Periosteal Activation—A Proof‐of‐Principle Study
Authors: Saulacic Nikola , Lang Niklaus P. , Corluka Slavko , Mendaña Maria Permuy , Muñoz Guzón Fernando M.
Published: August 2024

Aim

To assess the possibility of vertical alveolar ridge augmentation by means of activation of the periosteum.

Materials and Methods

Six adult male Beagle dogs were used for the study. All premolars and first molars were extracted, and one vertical saucer‐shaped bony defect was created on each side of the mandible. After 3 months of healing, full‐thickness muco‐periosteal flaps were elevated, and one distraction device was placed on each side of the mandible. The distraction plate was left submerged, and the activation mechanism connected to the distraction rod was exposed intra‐orally. The protocol of periosteal activation (PP: periosteal ‘pumping’) was initiated after a latency of 7 days. The alternation of activation and relaxation at the rate of 0.35 mm/12 h during 5 days was followed by the sole activation of 0.35 mm/12 h for 5 days (PP group). Devices were left inactivated on the contralateral control side of the mandible (C group). All animals were euthanized after 8 weeks of consolidation. Samples were analysed histologically and by means of micro‐CT.

Results

New mature lamellar bone was formed over the pristine bone in all groups. More intensive signs of bone modelling and remodelling were observed in the PP group compared to the C group. Mean new bone, bone marrow, connective tissue and total volumetric densities were greater in the PP group (p < 0.001, p = 0.001, p = 0.003 and p < 0.001, respectively). No differences were observed in the relative area parameters. Total tissue volume and bone volume were higher in the PP group (p = 0.031 and p = 0.076, respectively), while the bone mineral densities were higher in the C group (p = 0.041 and p = 0.003, respectively). Trabecular number, trabecular thickness and trabecular separation values were similar between the two groups.

Conclusions

Regeneration of vertical alveolar bone ridge defects may be enhanced by activation of the periosteum, without the application of bone grafting materials.