bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A bibliometric analysis of smallholder farmers’ climate change adaptation challenges: a SADC region outlook
Authors: Shoko Kori Dumisani , Musakwa Walter , Kelso Clare
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore pathways in which adaptation challenges may occur. Focus is on the barriers to adaptation, challenges to adaptation and maladaptation with reference to smallholder farmers in the Southern African Development Community region.

Design/methodology/approach

Bibliometric analysis techniques were used to track the literature on smallholder farmers’ adaptation challenges. Web of Science was the main data source. A total of 41 articles were retained for analysis and exported into Visualization of Similarities Viewer Software where the development of research on the subject, co-occurrence of keywords analysis, top publishers, citations and total link strength was done.

Findings

Results indicate that research on smallholder farmers’ adaptation challenges is not new but has gained more consideration post-2020. The main adaptation challenges emanate from perception barriers and constraints based on determinants of adoption, limitations for resilience building and achieving sustainable adaptation as well as contestations around Climate Smart Agriculture technologies.

Practical implications

Effective design of adaptation policies should center on prioritizing the needs of the local people. This would reduce the occurrences of smallholder farmers’ adaptation challenges, promote resilience building and contribute toward achieving sustainable adaptation.

Originality/value

It is equally important to document adaptation challenges. However, adaptation challenges are rarely shared with the same enthusiasm as its successes. This work focuses on the matter with the intention of conscientizing smallholder farmers to reduce the risk of repeating the same adaptation mistakes.
Lean logistics and corporate green practices: messianic methodologies for achieving business excellence in the logistics industry via green stakeholder satisfaction
Authors: Afum Ebenezer , Agyabeng-Mensah Yaw , Baah Charles
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore how logistics firms exploit lean logistics and corporate green practices as significant catalysts for achieving business excellence via the mediation roles of green internal stakeholder satisfaction and green external stakeholder satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

Questionnaire is used in garnering data from 137 Ghanaian logistics firms. Structural equation modeling, particularly partial least squares, was applied to test all hypotheses.

Findings

The results confirm the notion that although lean logistics has positive effect on business performance, the effect is insignificant; hence, it is the concurrent implementation of lean logistics and corporate green practices that leads to superior business performance. The mediation analysis further confirms that both green internal stakeholder satisfaction and green external stakeholder satisfaction are significant precursors through which logistics firms can achieve superior business performance when lean logistics and corporate green practices can influence business performance.

Research limitations/implications

Data is collected from logistics firms from a single country. Hence, the results obtained cannot be imported to reflect the general occurrence in other geographical settings.

Practical implications

This study informs managers of logistics firms that lean and green strategies are compatible when implemented together; hence, it should not be treated in isolation. Managers are further enlightened that in their pursuit of business excellence, there is a need to prioritize green internal stakeholder satisfaction and green external stakeholder satisfaction via prudent investment in lean and green practices.

Originality/value

The research model proposed in this study magnifies the literature on lean and environmental management via bridging the literature gap concerning the interrelationship between lean logistics, corporate green practices, green internal stakeholder satisfaction, green external stakeholder satisfaction and business performance.
Game-based learning about the circular economy in building sustainable communities: a case of international and interdisciplinary university collaboration
Authors: Waite Imge Akcakaya , Akcay Kavakoglu Aysegul , Robescu Lacramioara Diana , Cocarta Diana Mariana , Vuta Liana Ioana
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to enhance integration of game-based learning (GBL) as a tool for conveying intricate circular economy (CE) concepts effectively into international and interdisciplinary higher education collaborations for the development of sustainable communities.

Design/methodology/approach

A series of game-based workshops by the Circular EELISA Community of the EELISA European University program were examined in terms of their compliance with literature-based GBL characteristics and their international, interdisciplinary and online conduct. An online survey conducted with 17 workshop and/or challenge organizers from four participating universities in different countries revealed expert experiences and perceptions on these points.

Findings

It was found that sensory elements, rewards and game choice enhanced engagement and motivation in all gamification, serious game and storytelling experiences, and that a combination of multiple GBL approaches was more effective than a single-method challenge design. Diversity-friendly collaboration, cooperation and immersion were particularly important when involving culturally and disciplinarily diverse participants.

Practical implications

This study offers practical recommendations to improve both the performance of GBL-based learning environments in current and future education alliances and collaborations and the potential of GBL approaches to motivate youth to contribute to more sustainable communities across and beyond Europe.

Originality/value

The findings underscore the value of innovative pedagogical methods in shaping environmentally conscious mindsets and practices across institutions of higher education. To that end, this is the first study that investigates GBL in CE education with implications for international university cooperation.
ESG performance variability: profitability and market implications for real estate entities in a worldwide context
Authors: Morri Giacomo , Colantoni Federico , De Paolis Antonio Maria
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The central aim of this study is to examine the relationship between ESG metrics and financial outcomes in the real estate industry, honing in on particular sectors and geographical areas. Utilizing ESG ratings and pillar scores as indicators of sustainability performance, this research endeavors to discern their effects on measures of profitability and market performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on a dataset encompassing more than 200 publicly listed companies in the real estate sector, this research utilizes a fixed effects regression model and instrumental variables to scrutinize the data. This approach enables a thorough evaluation of how governance, environmental and social dimensions influence the financial and market outcomes of these entities.

Findings

The research reveals a complex relationship between ESG factors and financial performance, defying any simplistic, universal application. The connection is marked by diversity, deeply influenced by the unique aspects of each real estate industry segment and the particularities of regional markets. Specifically, the environmental aspect often corresponds with an increase in ROA, yet this pattern is not consistent throughout all cases. On the other hand, the social aspect is frequently associated with diminished performance indicators, while the influence of governance factors varies, affecting financial outcomes less predictably.

Originality/value

With its pioneering methodology, the research delves into the granular impacts of ESG factors within individual real estate sectors and specific countries. Insights into the Real Estate Rental, Development and Operations sector as well as firms operating in Oceania, extend the conversation in an area of ESG literature that has been relatively uncharted. Moreover, the study’s illumination of how environmental, social and governance elements distinctly influence financial results injects fresh viewpoints into the ongoing dialogue on sustainable business practices.
New approaches to improving the student experience at Aberystwyth University libraries: from library surveys to cognitive mapping
Authors: Kensler Elizabeth
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The findings are based on experience at Aberystwyth Universities libraries using surveys and user experience (UX) activities to identify and understand user requirements.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper was initially conceived and developed as a presentation for the LibPMC Conference in July 2023. It is included in this special conference issue for this conference.

Findings

There are challenges to successful integration of UX into user engagement processes across the library and IT services. To improve shared analysis and collaborative ideas generation we developed an interactive data dashboard.

Originality/value

The research is based on practical approaches to improving our understanding of student use and requirements at Aberystwyth University libraries. It explores mechanisms used to collect findings from all areas of UX, including library surveys, focus groups and UX activities to be able to analyse and share all student experience data – to be able to analyse themes and generate ideas and actions for development.
Clinical inertia in onychomycosis treatment: results from the Illuminating Dialogues and Insights in Onychomycosis Management (IDIOM) survey
Authors: Tsunemi Yuichiro , Otsuka Atsushi , Nonaka Yusuke
Published: October 2024

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection of the nail that can serve as a reservoir for tinea infections in other parts of the body and can be transmitted to other individuals. As the disease progresses, it can lead to functional impairment, such as difficulties in walking, and negatively impact the psychosocial aspects of quality of life. Onychomycosis treatment, especially topical, is long‐term, and adequate follow‐up is essential for cure. However, the realities and issues of patient‐physician communication after treatment initiation, including patients' perception of efficacy, treatment satisfaction, and reconsideration of the treatment approach, remain unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the realities and issues associated with onychomycosis treatment, focusing on topical therapies, through a web‐based survey of patients with onychomycosis and dermatologists. The duration of topical treatment was prolonged, with 30.5% of patients undergoing topical therapy for more than 2 years. Of these, 54.5% had not perceived clear efficacy. In addition, 93.7% of all patients with onychomycosis expressed a desire to change their treatment if it was ineffective. However, only 29.9% of patients receiving topical treatment discussed changing their treatment with their physicians, and only 7.3% ultimately changed their treatment. These findings indicate that the review of treatment strategies was insufficient. Furthermore, the satisfaction rate among patients treated with oral medications was higher than that of patients treated with topical medication. Despite dermatologists' awareness of low patient satisfaction with topical treatments, approximately 40% recommended alternative topical therapies when the initial topical treatment was ineffective. These results suggest clinical inertia in the treatment of onychomycosis stemming from a lack of appropriate intensification of treatment. In managing onychomycosis, the patient and dermatologist must share a common understanding of the importance of regular evaluation and the optimization of treatment regimens during treatment and must work side by side toward a cure.
Distinct microbial communities supported by iron oxidation
Authors: Burkartová Kateřina , Hlaváček Antonín , Skoblia Sergej , Falteisek Lukáš
Published: October 2024

Microbial biostalactites and streamers commonly grow at iron seepages in abandoned mines worldwide. This study addresses the diversity and composition of these simple prokaryotic communities, which thrive in pH ranges from 2.4 to 6.6 across six different mines. Our analysis of 85 communities reveals that a pH of approximately 3.2 is a critical threshold where alpha and beta diversity change discretely. Below this pH, the average number of ASVs per sample is 2.91 times lower than above this boundary. Autotrophs, heterotrophs, and symbionts of eukaryotes originate from nearly non‐overlapping species pools in the two habitat types that differ only in pH. Communities below pH 3.2 further divide into two distinct groups, differing in diversity, taxonomic, and functional composition. Both types of communities coexist within the same stalactites, likely corresponding to zones where the capillary structure of the stalactite is either perfused or clogged. These findings indicate that microbial community structure can be significantly influenced by the intricate spatial organization of the ecosystem, rather than solely by measurable environmental parameters.
Ambulance offload performance, patient characteristics and disposition for patients offloaded to different areas of the emergency department
Authors: Mallows James L , Salter Mark D , Chapman Mitchell
Published: October 2024

Objective

Ambulance transfer of care (TOC) is a key performance indicator for New South Wales EDs, with 90% of ambulances to be offloaded within 30 min of arrival. Nepean Hospital ED has a number of strategies to improve TOC, including ambulatory areas where patients can be offloaded immediately. Offload data are supplied by ambulance and there is no study into its accuracy. The aim is to audit the accuracy of ambulance data of TOC compared to times recorded in the Nepean ED information system, and to examine TOC and patient demographics for different offload destinations.

Methods

A retrospective observational study was performed for patients presenting by ambulance between 1 July and 31 December 2022. TOC was calculated from FirstNet and compared to ambulance data using a paired‐sample t test. Patients were categorised by offload destination within the ED and examined for age, TOC, disposition and specialty team if admitted.

Results

TOC for ambulance and ED data was 60.8% versus 64.1%, respectively (difference 3.33%, P < 0.001). Patients offloaded to acute care were older, with 61.9% being >65 years; had a TOC of 37.3% compared to the resuscitation and ambulatory areas with TOC close to 90%; and were likely to be admitted with a 63.8% admission rate and 24.1% of admissions being under the geriatric service.

Conclusion

Patients arriving by ambulance requiring an acute care bed were likely to be elderly and frail, and suffered substantial ambulance offload delays. Delays to ambulance offload for these patients is likely driven by acute care bed availability and access block.
Involved‐field high‐dose chemoradiotherapy with respiratory motion management for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Matsuda Masaki , Komiyama Takafumi , Marino Kan , Aoki Shinichi , Akita Tomoko , Sano Naoki , Suzuki Hidekazu , Saito Masahide , Nemoto Hikaru , Onishi Hiroshi
Published: October 2024

Background

We investigated the clinical outcomes of involved‐field high‐dose (≥66 Gy) chemoradiotherapy (CRT) combined with respiratory motion management for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC).

Methods

Patients who underwent definitive CRT for histologically confirmed ESCC in our department between 2012 and 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. Respiratory motion management strategies included breath‐holding (63%) and mask immobilization (29%) based on individual measurements of respiratory tumor motion using radiographic fluoroscopy with endoscopically placed clip markers as landmarks. We evaluated patient characteristics, treatment efficacy, failure patterns, and toxicities.

Results

We enrolled 35 patients with a prescribed dose of 66–70 Gy in 33–35 fractions. The overall response rate within 6 months post‐CRT was 94.3%; the median follow‐up period for survivors was 43 months. The 2‐year overall survival (OS), progression‐free survival, and locoregional failure‐free survival rates were 51.4%, 42.9%, and 42.9%, respectively. A significant difference in OS was observed between patients with and without esophageal fistulas after CRT (p = 0.002, log‐rank test). Disease failure occurred in 16 patients (45.7%), including one (2.9%) with out‐of‐field regional nodal failure. Major grade 3 or higher toxicities included decreased white blood cell count (48.6%), neutrophil count (34.3%), and esophageal stenosis (31.4%). No grade 3 or higher cardiopulmonary toxicities were observed. Bronchial/tracheal tumor compression and a higher radiotherapy dose (70 Gy) were significantly correlated with esophageal fistulas.

Conclusion

Involved‐field high‐dose CRT with respiratory motion management may be a feasible treatment option for ESCC. However, a comprehensive assessment of esophageal fistula risk is required to identify suitable candidates.
Substance use and psychiatric phenotypes of youth experiencing homelessness: A cluster analysis
Authors: Burke Colin W. , Lanni Sylvia , Hoeppner Bettina B. , Ducharme Peter , Wilens Timothy E.
Published: October 2024

Background and Objectives

Due to the complex interactions of psychopathology, psychosocial stressors, and risk behaviors, characterizing high‐risk phenotypic groups of transitional‐age youth experiencing homelessness (TAY‐EH) for targeted interventions remains difficult. We aimed to uncover specific phenotypes of TAY‐EH based upon psychiatric and substance use disorder (SUD) diagnoses, and to assess relationships between these phenotypes and negative outcomes including suicidality and high‐risk behaviors.

Methods

Participants (N = 140; 57% male, 54% Black) were individuals aged 16–25 years accessing support at a psychosocial agency in the U.S. Northeast. Data were gathered via structured assessment. Cluster analysis identified sub‐groups of TAY‐EH with differing diagnostic patterns. Bivariate analyses examined associations between cluster membership and target outcomes.

Results

A four‐cluster solution was identified. Cluster 1 (Co‐occurring; N = 33) was characterized by high levels of comorbidity (i.e., major depressive disorder (MDD), SUD, and notable levels of other diagnoses). Clusters 2 (MDD alone; N = 47) and 3 (SUD alone; N = 18) were characterized by single diagnoses. Cluster 4 (None; N = 42) was characterized by low levels of psychopathology. Clusters differed significantly on several variables including suicidality, adverse childhood experiences, and social connectedness. Comorbid MDD and SUD were most strongly associated with high‐risk behaviors and suicidality.

Discussion and Conclusions

These results highlight the importance of diagnosis and targeted interventions for co‐occurring MDD and SUD to address the crisis of early mortality and other negative outcomes among TAY‐EH.

Scientific Significance

This study is the first to identify specific high‐risk psychiatric and psychosocial phenotypes among the highly complex group of TAY‐EH based upon structured diagnostic assessments.
COVID‐19 Vaccine mRNA Biodistribution: Maternal and Fetal Exposure Risks
Authors: Zhong Connie , Cohen Koral , Lin Xinhua , Schiller Emily , Sharma Surendra , Hanna Nazeeh
Published: October 2024

SARS‐CoV‐2 infection during pregnancy has severe consequences on maternal and neonatal health. Presently, vaccination stands as a critical preventive measure for mitigating infection‐related risks. Although the initial clinical trials for the COVID‐19 vaccines excluded pregnant women, subsequent investigations have indicated mRNA vaccinations' effectiveness and short‐term safety during pregnancy. However, there is a lack of information regarding the potential biodistribution of the vaccine mRNA during pregnancy and lactation. Recent findings indicate that COVID‐19 vaccine mRNA has been detected in breast milk, suggesting that its presence is not confined to the injection site and raises the possibility of similar distribution to the placenta and the fetus. Furthermore, the potential effects and responses of the placenta and fetus to the vaccine mRNA are still unknown. While potential risks might exist with the exposure of the placenta and fetus to the COVID‐19 mRNA vaccine, the application of mRNA therapies for maternal and fetal conditions offers a groundbreaking prospect. Future research should leverage the unique opportunity provided by the first‐ever application of mRNA vaccines in humans to understand their biodistribution and impact on the placenta and fetus in pregnant women. Such insights could substantially advance the development of safer and more effective future mRNA‐based therapies during pregnancy.
Application of instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) to ceramics and clay sources for the late period (c. 950 years BP) in the Southern Argentine Puna: Interweaving sources, objects and practices
Authors: Gasparotti Leticia , Plá Rita , Arévalo Victoria
Published: October 2024

The study of the raw materials used in the production of ceramic objects involves studying the materiality of the objects themselves while providing insights into the factors that guided the choice of a particular resource over another. Simultaneously, this article focuses on the social contexts in which these objects were produced. We present the results obtained through an instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) of ceramics from the Corral Alto site (Antofagasta de la Sierra, Catamarca) of Argentina. The results suggest that most ceramic pieces were locally manufactured, contrasting with earlier periods and coinciding with the emergence of new ways of dwelling in the Southern Argentine Puna.
Characterization of historical mortar from Huilongguan temple site in Wudang Mountain, Hubei province, China
Authors: Wei Guofeng , Zhang Jiahui , An Zhao , Kang Yuhu
Published: October 2024

As the royal Taoist buildings of the Ming dynasty (1368–1644 CE), the Huilongguan temple site of Wudang Mountain represents the highest level of art and architecture of that era. Thanks at least in part to the quality and durability of building mortar materials, the part buildings of the Huilongguan temple site are still well preserved after 500 years of erosion by wind and rain. The present study conducted muti‐analytical techniques to explore the characterization of eight mortars from the Huilongguan temple site. The results indicate that the material formulae of these mortars from construction phases I–IV of the Ming dynasty were all sticky rice as the organic additive incorporated into the magnesian lime base, which originated from the calcination of dolomitic limestone. The contents of Ca carbonate in the studied mortar samples are about 39–66%; the design of mortar groundmass presents differences due to various building purposes. Different from sharp‐edged rhombohedral calcite crystals of pure lime mortar, irregular nano‐scale calcite crystals were found in the studied samples due to sticky rice slurry regulating the growth of Ca carbonate as an inhibitor and template, which formed more compact organic–inorganic composite microstructures.
Population pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus whole blood and peripheral blood mononuclear cell concentrations in stable kidney‐transplanted patients
Authors: Agergaard Katrine , Thiesson Helle C. , Carstens Jan , Staatz Christine E. , Järvinen Erkka , Nielsen Flemming , Christensen Heidi Dahl , Juhl‐Sandberg Rikke , Brøsen Kim , Stage Tore Bjerregaard , Andersen Dorte Terp , Kjellsson Maria C. , Bergmann Troels K.
Published: October 2024

Aim

Therapeutic drug monitoring of tacrolimus based on whole blood drug concentrations is routinely performed. The concentration of tacrolimus in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PMBCs) is likely to better reflect drug exposure at the treatment target site. We aimed to describe the relationship between tacrolimus whole blood and PBMC concentrations, and the influence of patient characteristics on this relationship by developing a population pharmacokinetic model.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled 63 stable adult kidney‐transplanted patients and collected dense (12‐h, n = 18) or sparse (4‐h, n = 45) pharmacokinetic profiles of tacrolimus. PBMCs were isolated from whole blood (Ficoll density gradient centrifugation), and drug concentrations in whole blood and PBMCs were analysed using liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry. Patient genotype (CYP3A4/5, ABCB1, NR1I2) was assessed with PCR. Population pharmacokinetic modelling and statistical evaluation was performed using NONMEM.

Results

Tacrolimus whole blood concentrations were well described using a two‐compartment pharmacokinetic model with a lag‐time and first‐order absorption and elimination. Tacrolimus PBMC concentrations were best estimated from whole blood concentrations with the use of a scaling factor, the ratio of whole blood to PBMC concentrations (RC:PBMC), which was the extent of tacrolimus distribution into PBMC. CYP3A5*1 non‐expressors and NR1I2‐25 385T allele expressors demonstrated higher RC:PBMC ratios of 42.4% and 60.7%, respectively.

Conclusion

Tacrolimus PBMC concentration could not be accurately predicted from whole blood concentrations and covariates because of significant residual unexplained variability in the distribution of tacrolimus into PBMCs and may need to be measured directly if required for future studies.
Parental control and adolescent social anxiety: A focus on emotional regulation strategies and socioeconomic influences in China
Authors: Fu Wangqian , Zhang Weida , Dong Yuhan , Chen Guanyu
Published: October 2024

An individual's social adaptation, which is influenced by both internalizing and externalizing factors, depends on social anxiety. We proposed that the connection between parental psychological control and social anxiety among middle school students was mediated by negative emotion response‐focused strategies and moderated by socioeconomic status (SES). We collected data from 1343 Chinese students from 12 to 16 years old (M = 13.3, SD = 0.96) by applying the questionnaire of parental psychological control scale, social anxiety scale and negative emotion response‐focused strategies scale. The findings demonstrated that parental psychological control, including father and mother psychological control, was positively associated with social anxiety and that the relationship between parental psychological control and children's social anxiety was mediated by negative emotion response‐focused strategies. Meanwhile, SES played a moderating role in the relationship between children's negative emotion response‐focused strategies and social anxiety. The findings also suggest that we should pay more attention to the psychological status and social interaction of children with lower SES.
A systematic assessment of robustness in CNS safety pharmacology
Authors: Reiber Maria , Stirling Helen , Ahuis Tim P. , Arias Washington , Aulehner Katharina , Dreßler Ute , Kas Martien J. H. , Kela Johanna , Kerker Kimberly , Kuosmanen Tarja , Lorenz Helga , Pennington Alexander T. , von Rüden Eva‐Lotta , Schauerte Heike , Seiffert Isabel , Talbot Steven R. , Torturo Christina , Virtanen Sami , Waldron Ann‐Marie , Ramboz Sylvie , Potschka Heidrun
Published: October 2024

Background and Purpose

Irwin tests are key preclinical study elements for characterising drug‐induced neurological side effects. This multicentre study aimed to assess the robustness of Irwin tests across multinational sites during three stages of protocol harmonisation. The projects were part of the Enhanced Quality in Preclinical Data framework, aiming to increase success rates in transition from preclinical testing to clinical application.

Experimental Approach

Female and male NMRI mice were assigned to one of three groups (vehicle, MK‐801 0.1 and 0.3 mg kg−1). Irwin scores were assessed at baseline and multiple times following intraperitoneal injection of MK‐801 using local protocols (Stage 1), shared protocols with harmonised environmental design (Stage 2) and fully harmonised Irwin scoring protocols (Stage 3).

Key Results

The analysis based on the four functional domains (motor, autonomic, sedation and excitation) revealed substantial data variability in Stages 1 and 2. Although there was still marked overall heterogeneity between sites in Stage 3 after complete harmonisation of the Irwin scoring scheme, heterogeneity was only moderate within functional domains. When comparing treatment groups versus vehicle, we found large effect sizes in the motor domain and subtle to moderate effects in the excitation‐related and autonomic domains.

Conclusion and Implications

The pronounced interlaboratory variability in Irwin datasets for the CNS‐active compound MK‐801 needs to be carefully considered when making decisions during drug development. While environmental and general study design had a minor impact, the study suggests that harmonisation of parameters and their scoring can limit variability and increase robustness.
A retrospective study on patient satisfaction and Oral Health‐Related Quality of Life with fixed 4‐ or 6‐implant supported prostheses over 3‐7 years
Authors: Chen Wenjia , Zhou Yi , Pang Lijiao , Pu Rui , He Fuming , Yang Haiping
Published: October 2024

Objectives

To compare patients' satisfaction and oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) in edentulous patients treated by All‐on‐4 and All‐on‐6 implant‐supported fixed prostheses rehabilitation over 3–7 years.

Methods

All patients (n = 125) were divided into short‐term (3–5 years, n = 71) and long‐term (5–7 years, n = 54) follow‐up groups. Patients' satisfaction was examined in a cross‐sectional survey. OHRQoL and psychological impact were evaluated using the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP). Comparison of All‐on‐4 and All‐on‐6, including OHIP values, satisfaction scores, treatment duration and complications, were analyzed using the Chi‐square test and the Mann–Whitney U test. Potential influence of patient‐related factors on patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) were analyzed via the Mann–Whitney U test, the Kruskal–Wallis test and multiple regression analyses. Power calculation was conducted in R Studio.

Results

Both All‐on‐4 and All‐on‐6 follow‐up groups showed high scores in total satisfaction and PROMs, including chewing comfort, aesthetics, cleanability, and stability, with no significant difference (p > 0.05). Meanwhile, no significant differences were observed in the OHIP scores between two groups in both follow‐up durations (p > 0.05). However, in patients with 3–5 years follow‐up, All‐on‐4 group had significantly lower phonetic satisfaction scores than All‐on‐6 group (p < 0.05). Additionally, during both follow‐up periods, All‐on‐4 patients exhibited notably superior psychological effect in contrast to All‐on‐6 patients (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Edentulous patients treated by four or six implant‐supported fixed prostheses showed same high satisfaction in oral health‐related quality of life in both 3–5 years and 5–7 years follow‐ups.
An Unexpected Finding of a PTPN11 Germline Mutation in a Patient With a Melanocytic Lesion With a Somatic MAP2K1 Mutation. Coincidence or Not?
Authors: van der Woude Sven , Klein Wassink‐Ruiter J. S. , Kluiver Joost , de Jonge Marthe , Diercks Gilles F. H.
Published: October 2024

Melanocytic tumors are a diverse group of lesions and are traditionally classified based on a combination of clinical presentation as well as histological examination. More recently, molecular diagnostics has become an increasingly important part of differentiating different melanocytic lesions in the current WHO standards. This molecular testing, however, can result in unexpected findings. In this report, we describe that molecular testing of a clinical atypical melanocytic lesion showed a mutation in the MAP2K1 gene as well as an unexpected germline mutation in PTPN11, indicative of Noonan syndrome. Based on these findings we concluded that the patient had a MAP2K1 associated melanocytic lesion with Noonan syndrome as an incidental finding. Melanomas are classically not associated with Noonan syndrome. However, we hypothesized that the germline mutations of PTPN11 and the somatic second hit mutation in the MAP2K1 genes might be involved in the formation of the aforementioned lesion. As they are both part of the RAS‐MAPK pathway. Furthermore, with the expansion of molecular diagnostics in melanomas, we expect to find an increase in unexpected (germline) mutations.
Begutachtung von arbeitsbedingten Hauterkrankungen und Hautkrebserkrankungen
Authors: Skudlik Christoph
Published: October 2024

Die Begutachtung arbeitsbedingter Hauterkrankungen zählt zu den dermatologischen Kernkompetenzen. Als Gutachter nimmt der Hautarzt im Zuge seiner Funktion als neutraler Sachverständiger eine andere Rolle ein als in seiner Funktion als therapeutisch tätiger Arzt. Um die Gleichbehandlung der zu begutachtenden Personen zu gewährleisten, ist bei der Begutachtung arbeitsbedingter Hauterkrankungen einschließlich der Hautkrebserkrankungen die Bamberger Empfehlung als wissenschaftlich fundierte Beurteilungsgrundlage zugrunde zu legen. Neben der dermatologischen Fachexpertise ist für den Gutachter die Kenntnis der versicherungsrechtlichen Rahmenbedingungen und Rechtsbegriffe unabdingbar. Mit ihrer qualifizierten Gutachtertätigkeit bereiten Dermatologen Entscheidungen der Sozialgerichtsbarkeit und der Sozialversicherungsträger vor und leisten damit einen wichtigen Beitrag zur sozialen Sicherheit.
Adherence and Quality of Life in Adult Patients With Haemophilia A, Haemophilia B and Von Willebrand Disease: A National Cross‐Sectional Survey
Authors: Clausen Cecilie Maria Lüthje , Funding Eva , Tolver Anders , Jarden Mary
Published: October 2024

Background

New treatments for patients with bleeding disorders (PWB) have emerged, including products with extended half‐life and subcutaneous administration. These less frequent treatments can potentially enhance quality of life (QoL), but adherence becomes critically important.

Aim

To investigate adherence and QoL among PWB and explore the correlation between treatment adherence and QoL in adult patients with haemophilia A (HA), haemophilia B (HB) and Von Willebrand disease (vWD) in Denmark.

Method

This survey used disease‐specific patient‐reported questionnaires: Veritas‐PRO and Veritas‐PRN to measure adherence, and Haemo‐A‐QoL and VWD‐QoL to assess QoL.

Results

Responses were obtained from 149 patients with HA, 32 with HB and 118 with vWD. Adherence was reported by 87.1% of patients on prophylaxis and 71.2% of patients treated on demand, according to Veritas‐PRO and Veritas‐PRN cut‐off scores. High QoL was generally reported, decreasing with age in HA and HB, but not in vWD.

Conclusion

Danish patients with HA, HB and vWD reported high QoL and high adherence to prescribed treatments. There was no correlation between treatment adherence and QoL among the different patient groups. These findings highlight the need for further research to better understand adherence behaviours and identify opportunities to further improve QoL in PWB.
Pre‐hospital transdermal glyceryl trinitrate for transient ischaemic attack: Data from the RIGHT‐2 trial
Authors: Appleton Jason P. , Dixon Mark , Woodhouse Lisa J. , Anderson Craig S. , Ankolekar Sandeep , Cala Lesley , England Timothy J. , Godolphin Peter J. , Krishnan Kailash , Mair Grant , Muir Keith W. , Potter John , Price Chris I. , Randall Marc , Robinson Thompson G. , Roffe Christine , Rothwell Peter M. , Sandset Else Charlotte , Saver Jeffrey L. , Siriwardena A. Niroshan , Wardlaw Joanna M. , Sprigg Nikola , Bath Philip M. ,   the RIGHT‐2 Investigators
Published: October 2024

Background and purpose

Ambulance trials assessing interventions in suspected stroke patients will recruit patients with currently active symptoms that will resolve into transient ischaemic attack (TIA). The safety and efficacy of glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) in the pre‐specified subgroup of patients with TIA in the Rapid Intervention with Glyceryl Trinitrate in Hypertensive Stroke Trial 2 (RIGHT‐2) was assessed.

Methods

RIGHT‐2 was a pre‐hospital‐initiated multicentre randomized sham‐controlled blinded‐endpoint trial that randomized patients with presumed ultra‐acute stroke within 4 h of symptom onset to transdermal GTN or sham. Final diagnosis was determined by site investigators. The primary outcome was a shift in modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores at 90 days analysed using ordinal logistic regression reported as adjusted common odds ratio with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Secondary outcomes included death or dependence (mRS >2).

Results

In all, 109 of 1149 (9.5%) patients had a final diagnosis of TIA (GTN 57, sham 52) with mean age 73 (SD 13) years, 19 (17.4%) had pre‐morbid mRS >2, and onset to randomization was 80 min (interquartile range 49, 105). GTN lowered blood pressure by 7.4/5.2 mmHg compared with sham by hospital arrival. At day 90, GTN had no effect on shift in mRS scores (common odds ratio for increased dependence 1.47, 95% CI 0.70–3.11) but was associated with increased death or dependence (mRS >2): GTN 29 (51.8%) versus sham 23 (46.9%), odds ratio 3.86 (95% CI 1.09–13.59).

Conclusions

Pre‐hospital ultra‐acute transdermal GTN did not improve overall functional outcome in patients with investigator‐diagnosed TIA compared with sham treatment.
Effect of propolis added to single‐bottle adhesives on water permeation through the hybrid layer
Authors: da Rocha Lucineide Silva , de Oliveira Daniela Ferreira , de Lima Cinthya Luna Veloso , do Nascimento Ticiano Gomes , de Freitas Johnnatan Duarte , de Freitas Jeniffer Mclaine Duarte , Porto Isabel Cristina Celerino de Moraes
Published: October 2024

Water treeing and water droplets are observed within adhesive layers and on the hybridized surface after bonding sound dentin using single‐bottle etch‐and‐rinse adhesives, indicating permeability of the hybrid layer to water. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of dentin sealing by adhesives containing propolis by quantifying the area of water transudation from dentinal tubules after dentin hybridization. Brazilian red propolis was added to experimental adhesive and Single Bond (3M/ESPE) adhesive; experimental adhesive and Single Bond without propolis were used as controls. Under simulated pulp pressure, two layers of adhesive were applied to etched human dentin discs. Three minutes after light‐curing, the hybridized dentin surface was replicated, and epoxy resin replicas were created to obtain scanning electron microscope images. Data were evaluated using ANOVA and Tukey's test. Single Bond containing propolis significantly decreased water permeation through the hybrid layer compared with the control group. Three minutes after polymerization, the experimental adhesive without propolis had formed a permeable hybrid layer. The addition of Brazilian red propolis significantly reduced surface water on hybridized dentin in a concentration‐dependent manner. Two‐step etch‐and‐rinse adhesives containing propolis were effective in reducing water permeation through the hybridized dentin surface.
Managerial incentives and earnings management: Insights from union certification elections
Authors: Zhang Yue
Published: October 2024

This study examines how unionization affects firms' financial reporting. Using a regression discontinuity design, we compare practices of firms narrowly winning and losing union certification elections. We find that winning firms depress earnings significantly more by inflating discretionary expenses, particularly research and development expenses, to strengthen their bargaining positions with workers. We further show that this manipulation aligns with managers' financial incentives, career motives, and entrenchment levels. The paper highlights managers' strategic use of real earnings management in worker negotiations and provides causal evidence on how the dynamic relationships among managers, shareholders, and workers shapes firms' financial reporting.
Computed tomography of the equine caudal spine and pelvis: Technique, image quality and anatomical variation in 56 clinical cases (2018–2023)
Authors: Ogden Nadine Kristina Elise , Winderickx Katja , Bennell Alison , Stack John David
Published: October 2024

Background

Cross‐sectional imaging improves the diagnostic accuracy of complex anatomical regions. Computed tomography (CT) of the pelvis and caudal spine in a large group of live horses and ponies has not been previously reported.

Objective

To describe the procedure for acquiring CT images of horses' caudal spine/pelvis under general anaesthesia (GA) and to detail the image quality, artefacts and anatomical variations in this region.

Study design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

Horses with CT of the caudal spine/pelvis were included. Horses under 6 months and CT examination performed post‐mortem were excluded. Protocols, image quality, region of interest, anatomical features and morbidities were analysed.

Results

Fifty‐six horses (8 months to 20 years, 85–680 kg) met the inclusion criteria. GA ranged from 10 to 60 min (mean: 30, median: 32). There were no adverse events recorded in any of the horses associated with the procedure. Images of all horses were considered of diagnostic quality. Anatomical variations were common and included the location of diverging (widest) interspinous space, the presence of spina bifida in the lumbar and sacral spine, the shape of the last lumbar vertebra and the location of intertransverse joints in terms of where they were present and the degree of fusion/modelling.

Main limitations

Not all horses underwent CT examination of the same regions, the upper size limit of horses is unknown and will vary depending on bore size and table infrastructure. Image noise, particularly in large horses and beam hardening artefacts from hardware and pelvis degraded image quality. Images were of insufficient quality in large horses for soft tissue interpretation.

Conclusion

CT of the caudal spine and pelvis in live horses with wide‐bore CT machines and modified patient infrastructure was safe and produced diagnostic images.
Linked Data‐Driven, Physics‐Based Modeling of Pumping‐Induced Subsidence with Application to Bangkok, Thailand
Authors: Soonthornrangsan Jenny T. , Bakker Mark , Vossepoel Femke C.
Published: October 2024

Research into land subsidence caused by groundwater withdrawal is hindered by the availability of measured heads, subsidence, and forcings. In this paper, a parsimonious, linked data‐driven and physics‐based approach is introduced to simulate pumping‐induced subsidence; the approach is intended to be applied at observation well nests. Time series analysis using response functions is applied to simulate heads in aquifers. The heads in the clay layers are simulated with a one‐dimensional diffusion model, using the heads in the aquifers as boundary conditions. Finally, simulated heads in the layers are used to model land subsidence. The developed approach is applied to the city of Bangkok, Thailand, where relatively short time series of head and subsidence measurements are available at or near 23 well nests; an estimate of basin‐wide pumping is available for a longer period. Despite the data scarcity, data‐driven time series models at observation wells successfully simulate groundwater dynamics in aquifers with an average root mean square error (RMSE) of 2.8 m, relative to an average total range of 21 m. Simulated subsidence matches sparse (and sometimes very noisy) land subsidence measurements reasonably well with an average RMSE of 1.6 cm/year, relative to an average total range of 5.4 cm/year. Performance is not good at eight out of 23 locations, most likely because basin‐wide pumping is not representative of localized pumping. Overall, this study demonstrates the potential of a parsimonious, linked data‐driven, and physics‐based approach to model pumping‐induced subsidence in areas with limited data.
High‐temperature thermal conductivity measurement of porous ceramic coatings with a high heat flux CO2 laser rig
Authors: Zhao Lei , Hsu Pei‐Feng
Published: October 2024

Yttrium‐stabilized zirconia (YSZ) plays a crucial role in thermal barrier coatings widely used to protect metallic components in gas turbine engines against high‐temperature combustion product gases and harsh environments. The thermal conductivity of these coatings is a critical parameter influencing the gas turbine design, performance, and service life. In this study, a laser temperature gradient method is utilized to measure the thermal conductivity of porous YSZ coatings. The method employs specialized laser energy delivery to create a one‐dimensional temperature gradient through the sample thickness, closely simulating the operational condition. This approach provides an effective, direct means to determine the thermal conductivity of high‐temperature heat‐resistant porous ceramic materials.
Current Diagnosis of Bleeding Disorders in Lower Income Countries
Authors: Mishra Deepak K. , Rath Asish , Parihar Mayur , Vinarkar Sushant S. , Kundu Anirban
Published: October 2024

There have been considerable advances in diagnosing and treating bleeding disorders. But the scenario remains dismal in resource‐constrained settings in low and lower‐middle‐income countries (LMICs). Seventy‐five percent of the patients with inherited bleeding disorders do not get diagnosed in LMICs. In resource‐constrained settings, infectious disease and malignancies take the major focus. Bleeding disorders do not get prioritised in LMICs, and this leads to underdiagnoses and suboptimal treatment. There are various challenges like financial status, inadequacy of health care infrastructure, lack of patient registry and lack of awareness across medical staff, general population and government stakeholders. The lack of skilled laboratory personnel and laboratory infrastructure for optimal bleeding disorder diagnosis adds on to the problem. World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH) has been at the forefront in developing strategies to overcome some of these inadequacies; however, more active participation of the stakeholders including patients, medical professionals and policy makers is the need of the hour. This review highlights the different challenges in LMICs in diagnosing bleeding disorders, the gap between high‐income countries and LMICs and the possible strategies in closing the gap.
Thermal properties of mullite‐type SnAlBO4 and SnGaBO4
Authors: Wittmann Sarah , Murshed M. Mangir , Ghosh Kowsik , Koldemir Aylin , Pöttgen Rainer , Mendive Cecilia B. , Gesing Thorsten M.
Published: October 2024

We report on temperature‐dependent structural and spectroscopic properties of two new members of the mullite‐type ceramics SnAlBO4 and SnGaBO4. In‐situ X‐ray powder diffraction (XRPD) demonstrates positive thermal expansion behavior for all orthorhombic lattice parameters between 13 and 840 K. The lattice thermal expansion is modeled by Grüneisen first‐order approximation, where the vibrational energy is calculated by the Debye–Einstein–anharmonicity (DEA) approach. Although the thermal changes of the metric parameters do not show any discontinuity, the double‐Debye model and low‐temperature thermal analysis leave hints for subtle displacive changes. Splitting of the tin‐doublets of the 119Sn Mössbauer spectra at low temperature is assumed to be associated with structural modulation although the temperature‐dependent Raman spectra could not support these findings. The modulation could either be dynamic which requires much longer thermal equilibration than the speed of the data collection for XRPD and Raman spectroscopy. Selective Raman mode frequencies are analyzed using a modified Klemens model, which helps to understand the thermal anharmonic behaviors of the SnO4, MO6, and BO3 polyhedra as a function of temperature.