bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A multi-attribute group decision-making framework for site selection of waste-to-energy project considering public participation
Authors: Ma Shengbin , Li Zhongfu , Zhang Jingqi
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The waste-to-energy (WtE) project plays a significant role in the sustainable development of urban environments. However, the inherent “Not in my backyard” (NIMBY) effect presents substantial challenges to site selection decisions. While effective public participation is recognized as a potential solution, research on incorporating it into site selection decision-making frameworks remains limited. This paper aims to establish a multi-attribute group decision-making framework for WtE project site selection that considers public participation to enhance public satisfaction and ensure project success.

Design/methodology/approach

Firstly, based on consideration of public demand, a WtE project site selection decision indicator system was constructed from five dimensions: natural, economic, social, environmental and other supporting conditions. Next, the Combination Ordered Weighted Averaging (C-OWA) operator and game theory were applied to integrate the indicator weight preferences of experts and the public. Additionally, an interactive, dynamic decision-making mechanism was established to address the heterogeneity among decision-making groups and determine decision-maker weights. Finally, in an intuitive fuzzy environment, an “acronym in Portuguese of interactive and multi-criteria decision-making” (TODIM) method was used to aggregate decision information and evaluate the pros and cons of different options.

Findings

This study develops a four-stage multi-attribute group decision-making framework that incorporates public participation and has been successfully applied in a case study. The results demonstrate that the framework effectively handles complex decision-making scenarios involving public participation and ranks potential WtE project sites. It can promote the integration of expert and public decision-making preferences in the site selection of WtE projects to improve the effectiveness of decision-making. In addition, sensitivity and comparative analyses confirm the framework’s feasibility and scientificity.

Originality/value

This paper provides a new research perspective for the WtE project site selection decision-making, which is beneficial for public participation to play a positive role in decision-making. It also offers a valuable reference for managers seeking to effectively implement public participation mechanisms.
Present bias and its influence on financial behaviours amongst Indians
Authors: Maji Sumit Kumar , Prasad Sourav
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Present bias (PB) is a cognitive bias that stimulates the individual decision-maker to favour the present reward even over the higher reward in the future to avoid the uncertainty attached to the reward in an uncertain future. The article attempts to examine the prevalence of PB amongst Indians and the effect of such bias on savings and borrowings.

Design/methodology/approach

Secondary data on 47,132 respondents from the Financial Inclusion Insights, 2017 database was used in the study. The theory of self-control, which is captured by the widely accepted hyperbolic discounting model, was used to explore the presence of PB. Suitable statistical techniques and the binary probit regression model were employed to attain the objectives of the study.

Findings

The prevalence of PB was found amongst 8.2% of the sample respondents. The outcome of the study endorses the view of previous researchers that present-biased people tend to save less and borrow more.

Originality/value

Although the exploration of the role of various cognitive biases on financial behaviour is gaining momentum in recent times, there is a dearth of studies exploring the prevalence of PB and its implication towards financial behaviour, especially in the context of the emerging economy of India. The study makes an original contribution in this regard by using a very rich dataset of 47,132 individuals in the Indian context for the first time.
Management accounting change in merger and acquisitions: a multiple-case study
Authors: Mariani Andrea , Cifalinò Antonella , Lisi Irene Eleonora , Rizzo Marco Giovanni
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Despite the literature highlighting the relevance of mergers and acquisitions (M&As) as strategic options for organizations’ evolution, such events maintain a high failure rate. All stages of M&As generate considerable stress on management accounting systems (MASs) and related actors. This study aims to investigate management accounting change (MAC) throughout M&As to expand knowledge on the technical side of these changes. A deeper understanding of these changes and their relationship to the implementing agents could illuminate the causes of M&A success and failure.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses an in-depth, qualitative case study analysis of two companies that completed an M&A. The MAC process was investigated based on Sulaiman and Mitchell’s (2005) typology. The authors collected information from internal documents, interviews, external reports and public information.

Findings

The findings indicate that MAC in M&As represents a comprehensive change that goes beyond the modifications outlined in Sulaiman and Mitchell’s (2005) original framework; the post-deal integration period can be broken down into early and full sub-phases; and the success of the MAC process rests on the different roles played by various change agents.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is among the first to apply and deepen a MAC framework focused on technical changes to MASs in the context of M&As. To date, the literature on M&A has mainly focused on behavioral or organizational changes while neglecting the technical dimension. In addition, by considering all the stakeholders of MASs, this study’s analyses expose the role of change agents who are not generally considered in the accounting literature.
How psychological perceptions and family dynamics shape necessity- and opportunity-based female entrepreneurship: the role of gender equality
Authors: Deng Wei , Liang Qiaozhuan , Wang Wei , Zhang Yue
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore how psychological perceptions and family situations drive women into necessity- or opportunity-based female entrepreneurship (NBFE or OBFE) and the moderating role of gender equality.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts multilevel logistic regression analysis to examine relationships based on a sample of 6,843 women across eight developing countries drawn from the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM).

Findings

The findings suggest that capability and opportunity perceptions positively affect NBFE and OBFE. Family responsibility burden positively affects NBFE and has a U-shaped relationship with OBFE. Household income negatively affects NBFE but positively affects OBFE. Gender equality weakens the U-shaped relationship between family responsibility burden and OBFE but strengthens the positive relationship between capability perception and NBFE and between opportunity perception and NBFE.

Research limitations/implications

The study highlights the need for targeted policies and support that consider the distinct antecedents and mechanisms of NBFE and OBFE, as well as the importance of promoting gender equality and entrepreneurial education to empower women in their entrepreneurial endeavors. A limitation of this study is the reliance on older data from the GEM, which may not fully capture the current dynamics of developing societies. While the study provides valuable insights, future research should incorporate more recent data to enhance the applicability of the results.

Originality/value

This study deepens the understanding of antecedents of NBFE and OBFE, breaking through the existing literature that neglects the heterogeneity of female entrepreneurship (FE).
Structure and functions of talking book mobile applications: a comparative study of Google Play Books, Audible, LibriVox, Storytel and Loyal Books
Authors: Bhardwaj Raj Kumar , K.R. Abhilash
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Talking book mobile applications have introduced the concept of reading through listening. Though conventional reading methods are preferable, talking book mobile applications have the advantage that they treat every user equally. The purpose of this paper is to compare the five popular talking book mobile applications namely Google Play Books, Audible, LibriVox, Storytel and Loyal Books.

Design/methodology/approach

This research compares and evaluates features and functionalities of five different talking book mobile applications using a checklist method. A structured checklist is prepared to compare the five popular talking book mobile applications comprising 261 dichotomous questions divided into 13 categories.

Findings

After evaluating the features, an attempt was made to rate the selected applications. According to the evaluation, Audible application performed better than others. This study about the features and functions of talking book mobile applications considered a total number of 261 features from the selected five mobile applications. Audible is ranked first with 182 (69.7%) features and is rated “Above average”; Storytel (68.2%) is second with 178 features, also rated “Above average”; Google Play Books ranked third with 161 (61.7%) features, rated “Average”; LibriVox ranked fourth with 151 (57.9%) features and is rated “Below average”. Fifth is Loyal Books with 130 (49.8%) features, rated “Below average”.

Research limitations/implications

The study covers only five talking book mobile applications. The checklist used in the study is generic covering limited features. Further, the perceptions of users were also not included while comparing the talking book mobile applications. The study does not comprehend whether the talking book mobile applications fulfil the information needs of the users.

Practical implications

Users can use the findings of the study in choosing the suitable talking book mobile application suitable to their requirements. Instructors of information literacy programmes can use the checklist to train the users in using talking book mobile applications that can accelerate the usage of these mobile applications.

Originality/value

The study identifies the features that should be available in a model talking book mobile application. Features of the talking book mobile applications were evaluated after preparing the detailed checklist. Features were divided into 13 different categories. The checklist used in the study is original and the first of its kind. The findings of the study can be used by developers of talking book mobile applications to improve their functionalities.
Shifting trait coordination along a soil‐moisture‐nutrient gradient in tropical forests
Authors: Boisseaux Marion , Nemetschek Daniela , Baraloto Christopher , Burban Benoit , Casado‐Garcia Angela , Cazal Jocelyn , Clément Jeanne , Derroire Géraldine , Fortunel Claire , Goret Jean‐Yves , Heras Jonathan , Jaouen Gaelle , Maréchaux Isabelle , Scoffoni Christine , Vieilledent Ghislain , Vleminckx Jason , Coste Sabrina , Schimann Heidy , Stahl Clément
Published: October 2024

Soil nutrients and water availability are strong drivers of tropical tree species distribution across scales. However, the physiological mechanisms underlying environmental filtering along these gradients remain incompletely understood. Previous studies mostly focused on univariate variation in structural traits, but a more integrative approach combining multiple physiological traits is needed to fully portray species functional strategies.

We measured nine leaf functional traits related to trees' resource capture and hydraulic strategies for 552 individuals belonging to 21 tropical tree species across an environmental gradient in Amazonian forests. Our sampling included generalist and specialist species from terra firme (TF) and seasonally flooded (SF) forests. We tested the influence of the topographic wetness index, a proxy for soil moisture and nutrient gradients, on each trait separately and on the trait integration through multivariate indices computed from the eigenvalues of a principal component analysis on the traits of the species. Finally, we evaluated intraspecific trait variability (ITV) for generalists and specialists by calculating the coefficient of variation for each trait.

Results showed that (1) the environment had a greater influence on trait syndromes than single trait variation. Moreover, (2) SF specialist species expressed a stronger leaf trait coordination than TF specialist species. Furthermore, (3) the ability of generalist species to occupy a broader range of environments was not reflected by a larger ITV than specialist species but by the capacity to change trait coordination across environments.

Our work highlights the need to investigate functional strategies as multidimensional syndromes in physiological trait space to fully understand and predict species distribution along environmental gradients.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Challenges in the Consumer‐Side of the Energy Transition
Authors: La Nauze Andrea , Menezes Flavio
Published: October 2024

The decarbonisation of the Australian economy relies on the transition of the electricity grid from fossil fuel to renewable sources. In this paper, we briefly summarise the logic behind the design of the National Electricity Market, the market servicing 88% of the Australian population. We then explore the challenges facing the National Electricity Market during its transition and emphasise key proposals aimed at reforming the consumer, or demand‐side, of the market. We highlight four challenges ‐ whether consumers will be active, whether retail markets can deliver contracts that facilitate efficient transition, whether the wholesale market will operate effectively and whether regulatory barriers can be quickly addressed.
Inequality of Opportunity and the Probability of Being Very Rich or Very Poor
Authors: Rebechi Alessio , Rohde Nicholas , Anderson Gordon
Published: October 2024

This paper models the effects of individuals' background variables on the chances they end up in the extremes of the income distribution. Taking high‐quality Australian panel data, we show that factors like the education of one's father have a much stronger impact on belonging to the top 1 per cent than they have on the conditional mean. Similarly, individuals from immigrant families are more likely to belong to both the left and the right tails of income distribution. Identifying the drivers of extreme incomes is important as individuals with very high incomes exert disproportionate political power, while those with very low incomes may drive prejudice and perceptions of disadvantage.
Food insecurity and health conditions in the Australian adult population: A nationally representative analysis
Authors: Fry Jane M. , Temple Jeromey B. , Williams Ruth
Published: October 2024

Aim

This study aimed to identify key health condition correlates of food insecurity in Australia using nationally representative data.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study used data from a large, nationally representative Australian survey that included questions on the dynamics of families and households, income, wealth, welfare, labour market activity (including unemployment and joblessness), life satisfaction and wellbeing. Binary logistic regression models of eight items of food insecurity measured the association between 17 health conditions and food insecurity while controlling for various demographic and socioeconomic variables. A zero‐inflated negative binomial model identified correlates of the number of food insecurity problems.

Results

Prevalence of food insecurity ranged from 3% to 9% depending on the measure analysed. Individuals experiencing blackouts, fits or loss of consciousness were 2–6 times more likely to report food insecurity than other individuals. When including control variables and incorporating other health conditions, several conditions significantly increased probability of any food insecurity: sight problems; blackouts, fits or loss of consciousness; difficulty gripping things; nervous conditions; mental illness; and chronic or recurring pain.

Conclusions

Detailed information on how health conditions are associated with different types of food insecurity was generated using population‐representative data, 17 sets of health conditions, and eight measures of food insecurity. Understanding connections between food insecurity and health conditions allows public health professionals to create effective, targeted and holistic interventions.
Systematic review of extrahepatic hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm following adult liver transplantation: Risk factors and treatment modalities
Authors: Pereira Ryan , Pearch Benjamin J , Pavilion Gilbert , Rajkomar Kheman
Published: October 2024

Hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm (HAP) is a rare vascular complication following liver transplantation (LTx) with treatment choice frequently driven by institutional experience. Approximately, 10% of hepatic grafts are lost from this complication, requiring re‐transplantation and placing further demand on the already present organ shortage. Secondly, patients with HAP can present with catastrophic bleeding, with reported mortality of up to 78%. We aim to identify risk factors associated with HAP and assess the survival benefit of different treatment modalities used (endovascular and open surgical techniques). Early detection may facilitate semi‐elective management of this condition. A systematic search was performed in PubMed, Medline and Embase up to 1 October 2023. Case series with ≥5 patients focusing on adult patients who developed extrahepatic pseudoaneurysm following LTx were included. A total of 11 studies were pooled, comprising of 118 patients with survival data available in 61 patients. The most common presentation was haemorrhagic shock or luminal haemorrhage (75.5%). Bile leak was documented in 66.7% (28/42), 15.2% (18/118) associated foregut pathologies and 28.6% (14/49) of microbiology cultures grew a fungal organism. Flow preserving strategies (stenting, revascularization) trended towards better survival at 120 months compared to non‐flow preserving strategies (embolization, HAL); however, this was not statistically significant following log rank (Mantel–Cox) analysis (P 0.169). Any patient following LTx presenting with haemorrhagic shock or luminal bleeding needs HAP excluded urgently. HAP management is complex, requiring careful consideration of patient specific presentation, anatomic factors and associated pathologies.
Stereotactic body radiotherapy alone versus stereotactic body radiotherapy after incomplete transarterial therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Song Youngju , Jung Jinhong , Park Jin‐hong , Kim So Yeon , Choi Jonggi , Lee Danbi , Shim Ju Hyun , Kim Kang Mo , Lim Young‐Suk , Lee Han Chu , Yoon Sang Min
Published: October 2024

Introduction

We investigated the clinical outcomes of stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) alone versus SBRT after incomplete transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) for a single recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) smaller than 5 cm.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients who underwent SBRT for a single recurrent HCC ≤5 cm, without vascular invasion or extrahepatic metastasis. Patients were divided into the SBRT‐alone group and the TACE‐SBRT group. The primary outcome was the local control (LC) rate, and secondary outcomes were survivals and treatment‐related toxicities. We additionally conducted a propensity score matching (PSM) analysis.

Results

A total of 477 patients were available for analysis. Among them, 54 patients received SBRT without prior treatment to the target lesion (SBRT‐alone group), whereas 423 patients received SBRT for viable HCC after TACE (TACE‐SBRT group). The 3‐year LC rates did not differ between the two groups (SBRT‐alone group, 88.6% vs. TACE‐SBRT group, 89.6%, P = 0.918). The 3‐year rates of overall survival, out‐of‐field intrahepatic recurrence‐free survival and recurrence‐free survival were also not significantly different (P = 0.479, 0.290 and 0.273, respectively). Even after PSM, LC and survival rates at 3 years were not significantly different.

Conclusion

SBRT alone demonstrated comparable local control and survival outcomes to SBRT following incomplete TACE. SBRT alone may be considered an alternative treatment option for a single recurrent HCC smaller than 5 cm when curative treatments or TACE are not feasible.
Y Reverse: Modified technique in challenging airway management
Authors: Messina Gaetana , Natale Giovanni , Pica Davide Gerardo , Vicario Giuseppe , Giorgiano Noemi Maria , Mirra Rosa , Di Filippo Vincenzo , Leonardi Beatrice , Capasso Francesca , Panini D'Alba Francesco , Vinciguerra Riccardo , Caputo Alessia , Puca Maria Antonietta , Pirozzi Mario , Balbo Ciro , Di Lorenzo Sara , Farese Stefano , Liguori Giovanni , Vicidomini Giovanni , Messina Giovanni , Fiorelli Alfonso , Ciardiello Fortunato , Fasano Morena
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Self‐expanding Y‐metal stents (SEMS) are best suited lesions with involvement of the carina and proximal main bronchi; however, Y‐stents can be difficult to place. These difficulties guided us to develop a modification of the classic technique that addresses some of the challenges during positioning. We present the Y reverse technique for Y stent insertion using a combination of rigid and flexible bronchoscopy.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective study included 15 consecutive patients, suffering from tracheal‐carina‐lower main bronchi complex, hospitalized at the Thoracic Surgery Unit of the Vanvitelli University of Naples between October 2021 and October 2023. Inclusion criteria: patients in which the length of the stenosis of the right bronchi was greater than that of the left bronchi, advanced oncological conditions, severe respiratory failure; exclusion criteria: Karnofsky scale with <40 points. All patients were admitted to the hospital and treated with Y‐stent insertion using the modified technique Y reverse.

Results

The comparison between the group undergoing the Y reverse technique with the group undergoing the traditional positioning of the Y prosthesis has shown an improvement in respiratory function; prolongation of the mean survival time; improvement in SpO2 in spontaneous breathing; reduction mean time procedure. p < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Conclusion

Y Reverse is a safe and effective procedure that provides rapid symptom relief in individuals who have critical central airway obstruction near the distal portion of the trachea, carina, and main right and left bronchi.
Associations of maternal sedentary behavior and physical activity levels in early to mid‐pregnancy with infant outcomes: A cohort study
Authors: Lindberger Emelie , Ahlsson Fredrik , Johansson Henrik , Pitsillos Tryfonas , Sundström Poromaa Inger , Wikman Anna , Wikström Anna‐Karin
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Physical activity during pregnancy is beneficial for the woman and the fetus. However, non‐objective methods are often used to measure physical activity levels during pregnancy. This study aimed to evaluate objectively measured maternal early to mid‐pregnancy sedentary behavior and physical activity in relation to infant well‐being.

Material and Methods

This cohort study included 1153 pregnant women and was performed at Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden, between 2016 and 2023. Sedentary behavior and physical activity levels were measured by accelerometers during 4–7 days in early to mid‐pregnancy. Outcome measures were infant birthweight standard deviation score, small‐for‐gestational‐age, large‐for‐gestational‐age, preterm birth (<37 weeks' gestation), spontaneous preterm birth, iatrogenic preterm birth, Apgar <7 at 5 min of age, umbilical artery pH ≤7.05, and admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

Results

There were no associations of sedentary behavior and physical activity levels with infant birthweight standard deviation score, small‐for‐gestational‐age, or large‐for‐gestational‐age. After adjustment for BMI, age, smoking, parity, maternal country of birth, and a composite of pre‐pregnancy disease, the most sedentary women had higher odds of preterm birth (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 2.47, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.17–5.24, p = 0.018), and NICU admission (AOR 1.93, CI 1.11–3.37, p = 0.021) than the least sedentary women. The most physically active women had lower adjusted odds for NICU admission (AOR 0.45, CI 0.26–0.80, p = 0.006) than the least physically active women.

Conclusions

Objectively measured levels of sedentary behavior and physical activity in early to mid‐pregnancy were not associated with standardized infant birth size. Sedentary behavior was associated with an increased likelihood of preterm birth and NICU admission, while high level of physical activity was associated with a decreased likelihood of admission to NICU.
Validation of the European visual field standards for driving: A driving simulator‐based study
Authors: Sudmann Thea Melsen , Torblaa Anna , Austeng Dordi , Reshodko Irina , Rehm Johannes , Bro Tomas , Brækhus Anne , Klungsøyr Ole , Rowe Fiona , Jørstad Øystein Kalsnes
Published: October 2024

Purpose

To determine whether we could establish evidence‐based pass/fail criteria for perimetry in the context of the European visual field standards for driving.

Methods

This two‐centre, cross‐sectional study included participants with binocular visual field loss that had led to revocation of a group‐1 driving licence. The participants underwent cognitive and binocular visual testing, including the European Driving Test (EDT), a perimetry algorithm that adheres to the European visual field standards. We used a high‐fidelity driving simulator to compare the driving ability of these participants with healthy controls. Two driving instructors classified each driving test as passed or failed. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis and area under the curve (AUC) determined the ability of perimetry to discriminate between passed and failed driving tests.

Results

The study included 70 participants with visual field loss and 37 controls. A non‐significantly higher proportion of controls passed the driving test (75% vs. 63%; p = 0.22). In ROC analysis, contrast sensitivity performed best (AUC of 0.73), followed by NEI VFQ‐25 (AUC of 0.64). Peripheral visual field (AUC of 0.56) and central visual field (AUC of 0.47) performed weaker. Combining the central and peripheral visual field, and their interaction, increased AUC to 0.63.

Conclusion

Perimetry was a poor predictor of simulator‐based driving test result, and we could not establish appropriate pass/fail criteria for the European visual field standards. Because perimetry is not an accurate diagnostic tool for fitness to drive, a practical driving assessment should be performed in case of doubt.
The impact of social and institutional trust on South Korean perceptions of North Korean arrivals
Authors: Rich Timothy S. , White Serena
Published: October 2024

How do forms of trust influence South Korean views of North Korean arrivals? While a broad literature addresses the institutional and generalized social trust impacting a range of public perceptions, this has not been extended to views on North Korean arrivals. Meanwhile, research on views of arrivals often relies on only one measure for what are likely complex concerns. Through the use of a 2021 Korean Social Integration Survey, we find evidence of institutional and social trust positively influencing overall views of arrivals, with mixed results on the impact on proximal tolerance of arrivals, suggesting that policy efforts to enhance trust as a means to improve integration efforts may fail to produce substantive improvements for arrivals.
Corporate Sustainability Reporting: Shifting From Optional Due Diligence to Mandatory Duty
Authors: Leite Emilene , Koporcic Nikolina , Markovic Stefan
Published: October 2024

This paper offers a critical overview of the newly proposed Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive by the European Commission. The aim is to uncover potential opportunities, challenges, gaps, and contradictions, within the directive. We provide insights on how companies can effectively navigate through these issues and leverage upon the directive for more environmentally friendly and ethically sound operations within the global value chain. Ultimately, our aim is to offer researchers, managers, and policymakers a viewpoint on the potential impacts of the new directive on organizations and provide future research directions around responsible corporate conduct across global value chains.
‘Rutting stags’ and ‘sly foxes’: Gender positioning boys and girls through social, emotional and behavioural work on the school playground
Authors: Wood Peter
Published: October 2024

In recent years, there has been an increased focus on the development of children's social, emotional and behavioural skills in schools, via a swathe of classroom‐based schemes and more general, relational and emotional approaches to pedagogy. With a now established but growing evidence base focusing upon the outcomes of such social, emotional and behavioural work for schools and children, calls have been made for research that makes a gender critical analysis of such work. This article is grounded in a conceptual framework that positions gender as socially constructed and performative and draws on qualitative data gathered in a series of focus group and individual interviews with primary school practitioners. The findings demonstrate how gender binary beliefs influence perceptions of the behaviours displayed by boys and girls in play‐based situations as well as the social, emotional and behavioural work carried out by staff in response. The implications of these findings, in terms of the positioning of, and responses to the social, emotional and behavioural difficulties presented by boys and girls on the schoolyard are discussed and suggestions for future practice are made.
Does Injectable Platelet‐Rich Fibrin Combined With Autogenous Demineralized Dentine Enhance Alveolar Ridge Preservation? A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Amer Odai , Shemais Nesma , Fawzy El‐Sayed Karim , Saleh Heba Ahmed , Darhous Mona
Published: October 2024

Objective

The present trial evaluated the first‐time application of autogenous demineralized dentin graft with injectable platelet‐rich fibrin (ADDG + i‐PRF) versus autogenous demineralized dentin graft (ADDG), in alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) in the maxillary aesthetic zone.

Material and Methods

Twenty‐two maxillary (n = 22) non‐molar teeth indicated for extraction were randomized into two groups (n = 11/group). Extracted teeth were prepared into ADDG, implanted into extraction sockets with or without i‐PRF amalgamation and covered by collagen sponge. Cone‐beam computed tomography scans at baseline and 6 months were compared to assess ridge‐dimensional changes. Keratinized tissue width, patient satisfaction, pain score and chair time were recorded. In the course of dental implant placements at 6 months, bone core biopsies of engrafted sites were obtained and analysed histomorphometrically.

Results

Reduction in ridge width was 1.71 ± 1.08 and 1.8 ± 1.35 mm, while reduction in ridge height was 1.11 ± 0.76 and 1.8 ± 0.96 mm for ADDG + i‐PRF and ADDG, respectively (p > 0.05). Significant differences in keratinized tissue width reduction were notable between ADDG + i‐PRF and ADDG (0.12 ± 0.34 and 0.58 ± 0.34 mm respectively; p = 0.008). Postoperative pain scores were significantly lower in ADDG + i‐PRF (p = 0.012). All patients in the two groups were satisfied with no differences in chair time (p > 0.05). No differences in total percentage area of newly formed bone, soft tissue or graft particles were observed between the groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

ADDG alone or in combination with i‐PRF yields similar results regarding ARP clinically, quality of the formed osseous tissues, as well as patients' satisfaction. Yet, the addition of i‐PRF to ADDG tends to preserve the keratinized tissue and lessen postoperative pain.
Impairment of Internal Auditory Canal Barrier in Meniere's Disease
Authors: Zhang Weidong , Xie Jiapei , Li Songbai , Zhang Bo
Published: October 2024

Objective

The aim of this investigation was to explore the potential correlation between the signal intensity ratio (SIR) at the internal auditory canal (IAC) fundus and hearing impairment in Meniere's disease (MD), thereby providing a foundation to further understand the mechanisms underlying hearing loss.

Design

Fifty patients diagnosed with unilateral definite MD were enrolled in the study. 3D‐FLAIR MRI was conducted 4 h after intravenous administration of gadobutrol to determine the SIR of the bilateral IAC fundus. The difference in the SIR of the IAC fundus between the affected and unaffected sides was assessed, followed by an analysis of its correlation with low‐, middle‐, and high‐tone hearing thresholds. Correlation analysis was also conducted between the degree of endolymphatic hydrops (EH) in the vestibule and cochlea and the SIR on the affected side.

Results

The degree of EH in MD can be clearly visualised using 3D‐FLAIR MRI. The SIR on the affected side was significantly higher than that on the unaffected side (p = 0.000). Furthermore, a positive correlation was observed between the SIR at the affected and low (r = 0.692, p = 0.000), middle (r = 0.615, p = 0.000) and high‐tone (r = 0.440, p = 0.001) hearing thresholds, while the SIR showed no significant correlation with cochlear (r = 0.315, p = 0.088) or vestibular hydrops (r = 0.215, p = 0.244).

Conclusion

The IAC fundus barrier may be damaged in patients with MD, representing one of the factors affecting the level of hearing.
Grasping the Concept of an Object at a Glance: Category Information Accessed by Brief Dichoptic Presentation
Authors: Antal Caitlyn , de Almeida Roberto G.
Published: October 2024

What type of conceptual information about an object do we get at a brief glance? In two experiments, we investigated the nature of conceptual tokening—the moment at which conceptual information about an object is accessed. Using a masked picture‐word congruency task with dichoptic presentations at “brief” (50−60 ms) and “long” (190−200 ms) durations, participants judged the relation between a picture (e.g., a banana) and a word representing one of four property types about the object: superordinate (fruit), basic level (banana), a high‐salient (yellow), or low‐salient feature (peel). In Experiment 1, stimuli were presented in black‐and‐white; in Experiment 2, they were presented in red and blue, with participants wearing red‐blue anaglyph glasses. This manipulation allowed for the independent projection of stimuli to the left‐ and right‐hemisphere visual areas, aiming to probe the early effects of these projections in conceptual tokening. Results showed that superordinate and basic‐level properties elicited faster and more accurate responses than high‐ and low‐salient features at both presentation times. This advantage persisted even when the objects were divided into categories (e.g., animals, vegetables, vehicles, tools), and when objects contained high‐salient visual features. However, contrasts between categories show that animals, fruits, and vegetables tend to be categorized at the superordinate level, while vehicles tend to be categorized at the basic level. Also, for a restricted class of objects, high‐salient features representing diagnostic color information (yellow for the picture of a banana) facilitated congruency judgments to the same extent as that of superordinate and basic‐level labels. We suggest that early access to object concepts yields superordinate and basic‐level information, with features only yielding effects at a later stage of processing, unless they represent diagnostic color information. We discuss these results advancing a unified theory of conceptual representation, integrating key postulates of atomism and feature‐based theories.
Incidence of hip problems in developmental central hypotonia: A scoping review
Authors: Livingstone Roslyn W. , Paleg Ginny S. , Shrader M. Wade , Miller Freeman , Rodby‐Bousquet Elisabet
Published: October 2024

Aim

To describe what is known about hip problems in individuals with developmental central hypotonia.

Method

Searches were conducted in five databases to October 2023. Down syndrome was excluded from this analysis of less well‐known genetic diagnoses. At least two reviewers independently screened titles, abstracts, read full‐text articles, and extracted data.

Results

Of 89 full‐text articles, 79 met inclusion criteria. Studies included 544 individuals aged 1 month to 63 years with Kabuki, 49, XXXXY, Prader–Willi, PURA, Koolen de Vries, Emanuel, TRPM3, Wolf–Hirschhorn, and other rare syndromes. Most diagnoses may be associated with a combination of differences in hip structure or stability that are evident at birth, or develop in early infancy, with increasing hip dysplasia and subluxation over time. Joint or ligamentous laxity was most reported along with hypotonia and hypermobility as risk factors. Limited data were identified about conservative or surgical intervention and outcomes in these populations.

Interpretation

Children with significant hypotonia, with or without a confirmed genetic diagnosis, are at increased risk of hip problems that may be missed with standard neonatal screening. Ultrasound is recommended between 6 weeks and 6 months, and annual orthopaedic review with regular radiographs for older children and adults with significant and persistent hypotonia.
Digital Equity and Accessibility in Higher Education: Reaching the Unreached
Authors: Amjad Amjad Islam , Aslam Sarfraz , Tabassum Umaira , Sial Zahida Aziz , Shafqat Faiza
Published: October 2024

Digital equity and accessibility for higher education (HE) students have become crucial since the early 21st century, especially for underserved, deprived, marginalised and oppressed students. The present study aimed mainly to reveal the barriers to digital access (BDA) faced by marginalised groups and to find effective strategies for promoting digital inclusion (DI). Another objective of the paper was to provide actionable policy insights (API) to improve DI in Pakistani universities. Participants (students from marginalised groups who face unique barriers to accessing digital education) were selected using a simple random sampling technique from the four provinces of Pakistan (Punjab, Sindh, KPK and Baluchistan). We used a cross‐sectional research design to collect quantitative data from 590 students selected from 12 universities in Pakistan using a self‐developed questionnaire via online platforms. The study's findings revealed a significant difference in digital access for marginalised groups, which contributes to educational inequalities for students in low‐income areas and remote areas facing enormous challenges. We also identified practices to improve digital accessibility, including technology‐based interventions and policy reforms to improve digital infrastructure. Based on preliminary findings, a combined effort toward digital equity can significantly improve educational outcomes for marginalised students, providing a roadmap for universities to bridge the digital divide. The present paper not only highlights the current state of digital equity and accessibility but also focuses on practical insights for policy and teachers and ensures that universities are inclusive and accessible to everyone.
Gender Budgeting to Progress Gender+ Equality Through Primary Education
Authors: Steinþórsdóttir Finnborg S. , Barkardóttir Freyja
Published: October 2024

Education is pivotal in the global effort to reduce inequalities. Through education, there are numerous opportunities to advance gender+ equality both within and outside of educational institutions. Gender budgeting, a strategy designed to align policies, plans and financial decisions with gender equality commitments, was used in this research to develop approaches through primary education. Research was conducted in collaboration with the biggest municipality in Iceland and three schools during the years 2019 and 2020, employing multiple data collection methods, including the review of policymaking documents and semi‐structured interviews. Through qualitative content and thematic analysis, the research identified several opportunities to foster equality through primary education, categorised into four key themes: policymaking, curriculum, student participation and school–family relations. It is recommended that policy‐based gender budgeting is implemented to prioritise actions that advance equality, social justice and equity within educational systems and broader society.
Evaluating Higher Education Performance via Machine Learning During Disruptive Times: A Case of Applied Education in Türkiye
Authors: Yılmaz Semih Sait , Collins Ayşe , Ali Seyid Amjad
Published: October 2024

In response to the COVID‐19 pandemic, an abrupt wave of digitisation and online migration swept the higher education institutions around the globe. In the aftermath of this digital transformation which endures as the legacy of the pandemic, what lacks in knowledge is how effective the anti‐COVID measures were in maintaining quality education. Using machine learning to analyse student grades as a proxy for educational standards, this study investigates and demonstrates the evaluative potential of machine learning (vs. traditional statistics) with respect to not only crisis responses in education but also applied studies such as Information Systems and Tourism. Main implication of this study is the analytical utility of machine learning even when educational data are irregular and small. However, incorporating accurate and meaningful data points into the existing online educational systems is crucial to leverage this utility of machine learning.
Neurodiversity in Saudi Arabia: A Conceptual Model for Inclusive Practices
Authors: Almakrob Ahmed Yahya , Alduais Ahmed , Be Borey , Mhone Alex S. M.
Published: October 2024

Despite the growing international focus on neurodiversity, its explicit identification and incorporation into educational and workplace practices remain underdeveloped in Saudi Arabia. This study explores the indirect presence and characterisation of neurodiversity within Saudi Arabia through existing inclusive practices. The study aimed to analyse the prevalence and characteristics of neurodiversity practices in Saudi Arabia, using inclusive education, mainstreaming education, inclusive society, and inclusive work as indicators, and to develop a conceptual model for neurodiversity applicable both locally and globally. A content analysis was conducted on 33 studies related to inclusive practices in Saudi Arabia. Data were categorised into emergent themes to construct a conceptual model that encapsulates neurodiversity practices. The findings revealed eight categories representing neurodiversity practices: Teacher Preparedness and Training, Policy and Implementation, Inclusive Educational Practices, Assistive Technologies and Resources, Socio‐emotional and Health Support, Specialised Training and Professional Development, Student and Peer Perspectives, and Inclusive Infrastructure. The proposed conceptual model synthesises these categories, providing a structured depiction of neurodiversity practices in Saudi Arabia and offering a framework with international applicability. This study uncovers an implicit acknowledgment of neurodiversity and a foundational approach to inclusive practices within the Saudi Arabian context, parallel to global inclusive trends.
Dopamine loss alters glutamate synapses and transporters in the medial prefrontal cortex and anxiety‐related behaviour in a male MPTP rodent model of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Moore Cindy , Helms Melinda L. , Nipper Michelle A. , Winfrey Lila C. , Finn Deborah A. , Meshul Charles K.
Published: October 2024

Anxiety is a prominent non‐motor symptom of Parkinson's disease (PD). Changes in the B‐spectrum recordings in PD patients of the prefrontal cortex correlate with increased anxiety. Using a rodent model of PD, we reported alterations in glutamate synapses in the striatum and substantia nigra following dopamine (DA) loss. We hypothesize that DA loss will result in increased anxiety‐related behaviours and that this will be associated with alterations in glutamate synapses and transporters within the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). Following 4 weeks of progressive 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) administration, there was an increase in anxiety‐related behaviours and a 78% decrease in plasma corticosterone levels versus the vehicle (VEH)‐treated mice. This was associated with a 30% decrease in the density of dendritic spines in Layers Il/Ill, and a 53% decrease in the density of glutamate immuno‐gold labelling within vesicular glutamate transporter 1 (Vglut1)‐labelled nerve terminals and spines, with no change within vesicular glutamate transporter 2 (Vglut2) positive terminals/spines in the MPTP versus VEH groups. Our prior work determined that a decrease in striatal glutamate terminal density was associated with an increase in extracellular glutamate levels. There was an increase in protein expression of Vglut1 (40%), Vglut2 (37%) and glutamate aspartate transporter (GLAST) (225%), and a decrease in glutamate transporter 1 (GLT‐1) (50%) and excitatory amino acid carrier 1 (EAAC1) (51%), in the MPTP versus VEH groups within the mPFC. These data suggest that the decrease in dendritic spines within the mPFC following nigrostriatal DA loss may be due to increased extracellular glutamate levels (decrease in glutamate transporters), leading to an increase in anxiety‐related behaviours.
Temporal Knowledge Graph Reasoning Based on Dynamic Fusion Representation Learning
Authors: Chen Hongwei , Zhang Man , Chen Zexi
Published: October 2024

Recently, significant progress has been made in completing static knowledge graphs. However, knowledge tends to evolve with time, and static knowledge graph completion (KGC) methods struggle to capture the changes. Therefore, temporal knowledge graph (TKG) reasoning has become a focus of research. Most existing TKG methods incorporate temporal information into triplets and transform them into KGC tasks, ignoring the important influence of time information and implicit relationships between entities. In this paper, we propose a new method called TD‐RKG, which addresses the challenges of temporal variability and implicit entity correlations based on a dynamic fusion representation learning approach. The method consists of four modules: dynamic local recurrent encoding layer, dynamic implicit encoding layer, dynamic global information attention layer and decoding layer. Experimental results on three benchmark datasets demonstrate substantial improvements in TD‐RKG across multiple evaluation metrics.