bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bystanders’ support for online customer complaints: an integrated perspective of deontic justice theory and attribution theory
Authors: Zhang Jin , Weng Zhigang
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Online complaints have emerged as a pivotal avenue for customers to voice their dissatisfaction. In this context, bystanders, as third-party observers, actively engage in evaluating and judging these complaints. However, studies pertaining to bystanders in online customer complaints remain limited. Therefore, this study aims to integrate deontic justice theory and attribution theory to construct a research model of bystanders’ support for online customer complaints.

Design/methodology/approach

Leveraging a questionnaire and two scenario experiments, SPSS 24.0 and AMOS 24.0 were used to examine the relationship between bystanders’ moral outrage and their support for online customer complaints, the mediating role of responsibility attribution and the moderating role of experience similarity and online anonymity.

Findings

Based on the statistical analysis, the results show that bystanders’ moral outrage significantly enhances their support for online customer complaints; responsibility attribution plays a mediating role between moral outrage and bystanders’ support for online customer complaints; experience similarity and online anonymity can moderate the relationship between moral outrage and bystanders’ support for online customer complaints.

Originality/value

The findings of this study not only enrich the literature on online customer complaints but also provide valuable insights for companies to understand the diffusion of online complaints and effective strategies with which to address them.
Construction and validation of the cognitive attitudes toward inclusive education scale among teachers and paraprofessionals in the French context
Authors: Legrain C. , Brasselet C. , Khamzina K. , Jury M. , Desombre C.
Published: November 2024

Recent years have seen a growing shift toward global inclusive policies. Previous research highlighted the development of inclusive education, which notably requires collaboration among multiple actors (i.e., teachers, paraprofessionals, families). Among the barriers and levers to this implementation, attitudes toward inclusive education have been the subject of particular scholarly inquiry. This article reports two studies conducted to develop a French‐speaking scale to address the emerging challenges in inclusive education by virtue of its suitability for a variety of actors. The 12 items of the Cognitive Attitudes Toward Inclusive Education Scale (CATIES) were derived from nine pre‐existing scales. Two studies (N = 180 and N = 228) involving teachers and paraprofessionals (e.g. psychologists, special educators, nurses, and other paraprofessionals working in medical‐educational facilities) were conducted within the French context to establish the scale's psychometric properties, such as internal consistency and convergent validity. Results reveal a reliable and valid tool with a three‐dimensional structure measuring teachers' attitudes toward teaching students with special educational needs, benefits and risks of inclusive education on students with and without special educational needs and classroom management. In light of its relevance to a variety of inclusion stakeholders, this scale offers perspectives for more reliable inclusive education research.
Tryptophan‐immunoadsorption plasmapheresis regulates polymorphonuclear‐myeloid‐derived suppressor cells and pro‐inflammatory cytokines
Authors: Wakabayashi Hanae , Hattori Noriyuki , Uzawa Akiyuki , Ito Michihiro , Hasegawa Hiroko , Mimura Naoya , Empitu Maulana , Aizawa Masashi , Kuwabara Satoshi , Asanuma Katsuhiko , Oda Shigeto
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Immunoadsorption plasmapheresis (IA) has been reported to have immunoregulatory effects, in addition to the removal of autoantibodies. This study aimed to investigate the effects of IA on the proportion of myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) that potentially suppress autoimmune responses and regulate immunity.

Methods

The study included 21 patients with autoimmune neurological diseases and 8 healthy participants. We measured polymorphonuclear (PMN)‐MDSCs (CD14−CD11b+CD33+) and inflammation‐related mediators before and after a single session of tryptophan‐IA. We also investigated whether an increase in PMN‐MDSCs after initial IA was a predictor of clinical efficacy in nine patients with myasthenia gravis based on the Quantitative Myasthenia Gravis score.

Results

For a total of 36 times of IA procedures, the number of PMN‐MDSCs significantly increased after IA. Interleukin‐10, monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 and macrophage inflammatory protein‐1β levels showed significant increases after IA. Despite similar severity at admission, the Quantitative Myasthenia Gravis scores at discharge were significantly lower in the group in which IA increased PMN‐MDSCs to a level of 20% of peripheral blood mononuclear cells or more.

Conclusion

Tryptophan‐IA regulates PMN‐MDSCs and pro‐inflammatory cytokines, possibly leading to suppression of autoimmune responses and tissue damage in neuroimmunological disorders.
Viscoelastic testing of fibrinolytic capacity in acutely infected critically ill patients: Protocol for a scoping review
Authors: Self Matthew , Coupland Lucy , Aneman Anders
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Viscoelastic testing (VET) has been implemented in clinical care to diagnose and manage coagulation in patients with manifest or high risk of major bleeding. However, the breakdown of formed blood clots, that is, fibrinolysis, has been comparatively less studied. There is an increasing recognition that acute infections trigger a dysregulated immunothrombotic response, which has focused attention on viscoelastic testing to identify in particular fibrinolysis resistant states.

Methods

This scoping review on fibrinolysis assessment using viscoelastic testing will be conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA‐ScR). Publications will be included in the review if they evaluate the fibrinolytic capacity of adult patients admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU) for acute infection (including SARS‐CoV2) using VET assays that included a fibrinolytic agent. No date or language restrictions will be applied, and all study designs will be considered. A peer‐reviewed search strategy will be employed in multiple electronic bibliographic databases and will also include the grey literature.

Results

The included studies will be reported by descriptive analyses and tabulated results.

Conclusion

This scoping review aims to map the research describing viscoelastic testing (VET) to assess fibrinolysis in acutely infected critically ill patients, with the goal of identifying diagnostic capabilities, any associations with patient outcomes, and the potential to guide clinical management.
Epidural analgesia versus systemic opioids for postoperative pain management after VATS: Protocol for a systematic review
Authors: Holm Jimmy H. , Bak Mikkel , Brøchner Anne C.
Published: November 2024

Background

Postoperative pain following video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) remains a significant challenge. While epidural analgesia is still the gold standard, other types of regional analgesia are gaining popularity because of perceived less risk of complications. The efficacy of systemic opioids as an alternative to epidural analgesia has not been thoroughly explored. This systematic review and meta‐analysis aims to evaluate and compare the efficacy of systemic opioids versus epidural analgesia in managing postoperative pain after VATS.

Methods

We will conduct a systematic review and meta‐analysis in accordance with the Cochrane Handbook and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic review and Meta‐Analysis Protocols (PRISMA‐P) checklist. A comprehensive search will be conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library supplemented with Scopus citation searches, search for gray literature using Google Scholar and a search for ongoing studies. We will include studies based on the PICO methodology without restrictions regarding study type. Two independent reviewers will screen studies, extract data, and assess study quality using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tools. The primary outcomes will be postoperative pain intensity at rest and during activity at 24, 48, and 72 h. Secondary outcomes will include use of “rescue” opioids, hospital length of stay, and adverse events. If feasible, a meta‐analysis will be done, otherwise we will perform a descriptive analysis.

Results

The results will provide a comparative analysis of the effectiveness of systemic opioids versus epidural analgesia in managing postoperative pain in VATS patients. Data synthesis will include pooled estimates for pain scores, opioid consumption, and adverse events, possibly with subgroup and sensitivity analyses conducted to explore heterogeneity across studies.

Conclusions

This systematic review will offer valuable insights into the optimal pain management strategy for patients undergoing VATS. The findings may guide clinical practice in selecting the most effective and safe analgesic approach, improving postoperative recovery, and patient outcomes.
The recursive impact in the multivariate probit model: An application on farmers’ decisions for opting risk management strategies
Authors: Shah Jamal , Alharthi Majed
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the determinants of farmers’ risk management decisions in Khyber‐Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, using a recursive multivariate probit (RMVP) model. Employing data from 382 farmers collected through a multistage sampling process, the study compares the RMVP with the traditional multivariate probit (MVP) model, demonstrating the superior performance of the RMVP in capturing complex decision‐making patterns. Our rigorous statistical analysis demonstrates the significant impact of endogenous covariates on farmers’ risk management choices, revealing complementarity or substitutability among strategies. The study contributes to the literature by providing empirical evidence on the effectiveness of the RMVP model for understanding smallholder farmers’ risk management behavior and offering insights for policymakers to support resilient agricultural systems.
Graft detachment rates in surgeon‐cut and pre‐cut tissue for DSAEK transported in different mediums
Authors: Olafsdottir Thorbjörg , Hootak Faisal , Forslund Carina , Olafsdottir Eydis , Gustafsson Ingemar
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To analyse graft detachment rates after Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) using surgeon‐cut grafts and pre‐cut grafts transported in different mediums.

Methods

A retrospective study of graft detachment rates including 265 surgeries (240 patients) performed between 2019 and 2023. The DSAEK grafts were either surgeon‐cut (n = 135) or pre‐cut and transported in a dextran‐containing medium (n = 82) or in a dextran‐free medium (n = 48). All surgeries were performed by a single surgeon (I.G.). The surgeries were categorised according to whether the recipients' eyes had, or did not have, factors associated with an increased risk of graft detachment. Detachment rates were compared for all patients receiving the different kinds of graft, and only for those without risk factors.

Results

A significantly higher detachment rate was found among patients receiving pre‐cut grafts transported in a dextran‐containing medium (32.9%), compared to surgeon‐cut grafts (14.1%, p = 0.002), and pre‐cut grafts transported in a dextran‐free medium (6.3%, p = 0.002) for all recipients (those with and without risk factors for graft detachment). When analysing recipients without risk factors for graft detachment, the detachment rate was still significantly higher with pre‐cut tissue transported in a dextran‐containing medium (26.9%), compared to surgeon‐cut tissue (8.3%, p = 0.002) and pre‐cut tissue transported in a dextran‐free medium (3.6%, p = 0.01).

Conclusions

The use of pre‐cut DSAEK tissue transported in a dextran‐containing medium significantly increases the risk of graft detachment requiring re‐bubbling.
Mu‐opioid receptors in tachykinin‐1‐positive cells mediate the respiratory and antinociceptive effects of the opioid fentanyl
Authors: Furdui Andreea , da Silveira Scarpellini Carolina , Montandon Gaspard
Published: November 2024

Background and Purpose

Opioid drugs are potent analgesics that carry the risk of respiratory side effects due to actions on μ‐opioid receptors (MORs) in brainstem regions that control respiration. Substance P is encoded by the Tac1 gene and is expressed in neurons regulating breathing, nociception, and locomotion. Tac1‐positive cells also express MORs in brainstem regions mediating opioid‐induced respiratory depression. We determined the role of Tac1‐positive cells in mediating the respiratory effects of opioid drugs.

Experimental Approach

In situ hybridization was used to determine Oprm1 mRNA expression (gene encoding MORs) in Tac1‐positive cells in regions regulating respiratory depression by opioid drugs. Conditional knockout mice lacking functional MORs in Tac1‐positive cells were produced and the respiratory and locomotor responses to the opioid analgesic fentanyl were assessed using whole‐body plethysmography. A tail immersion assay was used to assess the antinociceptive response to fentanyl.

Key Results

Oprm1 mRNA was highly expressed (>80%) in subpopulations of Tac1‐positive cells in the preBötzinger Complex, nucleus tractus solitarius, and Kölliker–Fuse/lateral parabrachial region. Conditionally knocking out MORs in Tac1‐positive cells abolished the effects of fentanyl on respiratory rate, relative tidal volume, and relative minute ventilation compared with control mice. Importantly, the antinociceptive response of fentanyl was eliminated in mice lacking functional MORs in Tac1‐positive cells, whereas locomotor effects induced by fentanyl were preserved.

Conclusions and Implications

Our findings suggest that Tac1‐positive cells mediate the respiratory depressive and antinociceptive effects of the opioid fentanyl, providing important insights for the development of pain therapies with reduced risk of respiratory side effects.
Orexin‐A Attenuates the Inflammatory Response in Sepsis‐Associated Encephalopathy by Modulating Oxidative Stress and Inhibiting the ERK/NF‐κB Signaling Pathway in Microglia and Astrocytes
Authors: Guo Jing , Kong Dexun , Luo Junchi , Xiong Tao , Wang Fang , Deng Mei , Kong Zhuo , Yang Sha , Da Jingjing , Chen Chaofei , Lan Jinhai , Chu Liangzhao , Han Guoqiang , Liu Jian , Tan Ying , Zhang Jiqin
Published: November 2024

Background

Oxidative stress‐induced inflammation is a major pathogenic mechanism in sepsis‐associated encephalopathy (SAE). We hypothesized that regulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by the neuropeptide orexin‐A could prevent SAE‐induced oxidative stress and inflammation. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of orexin‐A on oxidative stress and inflammation in SAE in mice.

Methods

Adult male mice were treated with orexin‐A (250 μg/kg, intranasal administration) to establish a cecal ligation perforation (CLP) model. We performed behavioral tests, observed neuronal damage in the hippocampal region, measured the levels of ROS, NOX2, and observed the structure of mitochondria by transmission electron microscopy. We then examined the inflammatory factors TNF‐α and IL‐1β, the activation of microglia and astrocytes, the expression of ERK/NF‐κB, C3, and S100A10, and the presence of A1 type astrocytes and A2 type astrocytes.

Results

Orexin‐A treatment improved cognitive performance in CLP‐induced SAE mice, attenuated neuronal apoptosis in the hippocampal region, ameliorated ROS levels and the extent of mitochondrial damage, and reduced protein expression of NOX2 in hippocampal tissue. In addition, orexin‐A treatment significantly reduced microglia and astrocyte activation, inhibited the levels of P‐ERK and NF‐κB, and reduced the release of IL‐1β and TNF‐α, which were significantly increased after CLP. Finally, Orexin‐A treatment significantly decreased the number of C3/glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)‐positive cells and increased the number of S100A10/GFAP‐positive cells.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that orexin‐A reduces ROS expression by inhibiting CLP‐induced NOX2 production, thereby attenuating mitochondrial damage and neuronal apoptosis. Its inhibition of microglial and A1‐type astrocyte activation and inflammation was associated with the ERK/NF‐κB pathway. These suggest that orexin‐A may reduce cognitive impairment in SAE by reducing oxidative stress‐induced inflammation.
Prevention and Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease Via the Regulation of the Gut Microbiota With Traditional Chinese Medicine
Authors: Long Jinyao , Zhang Jiani , Zeng Xin , Wang Min , Wang Ningqun
Published: November 2024

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is caused by a variety of factors, and one of the most important factors is gut microbiota dysbiosis. An imbalance in the gut mincrobiota have been shown to change the concentrations of lipopolysaccharide and short‐chain fatty acids. These microorganisms synthesize substances that can influence the levels of a variety of metabolites and cause multiple diseases through the immune response, fatty acid metabolism, and amino acid metabolism pathways. Furthermore, these metabolic changes promote the formation of β‐amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Thus, the microbiota–gut–brain axis plays an important role in AD development. In addition to traditional therapeutic drugs such as donepezil and memantine, traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) have also showed to significantly decrease the severity of AD symptoms and suppress the underlying related mechanisms. We searched for studies on the effects of different herbal monomers, single herbs, and polyherbal formulas on the gut microbiota of AD patients and identified the relevant pathways through which the gut microbiota affected AD. We conclude that improvements in the gut microbiota not only decrease the occurrence of inflammatory reactions but also reduce the deposition of central pathological products. Herbal monomers have a stronger effect on improving of central pathology. Polyherbal formulas have the most extensive effect on the gut microbiota in patients with AD. Among the effects of formulas, the anti‐inflammatory effect is the most essential and is also the main concern regarding the use of TCMs in treating AD from the viewpoint of the gut microbiota. We hope that this review will be helpful for providing new ideas for the clinical application of TCMs in the treatment of AD.
Histopathologic Comparisons of Discoid Lupus Erythematosus and Folliculotropic Mycosis Fungoides in a Series of 43 Cases
Authors: Cascardo Camilla A. , Mansour Meghan R. , Oska Sandra , Sundram Uma
Published: November 2024

Background

Folliculotropic mycosis fungoides (FMF) is a rare cutaneous malignancy that can be mistaken for inflammatory diseases, such as discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE), due to the variability of histopathological findings.

Methods

This study aims to provide dermatopathologists with evidence‐based histopathologic criteria to distinguish DLE from FMF by reporting overlapping and distinguishing microscopic features. Forty‐three biopsies from patients with a confirmed diagnosis of DLE or FMF were graded for the presence or absence of 18 histopathologic features.

Results

The main histopathologic findings present in nearly all DLE and FMF biopsies were folliculocentric and folliculotropic patterns. Comedones, granulomas, and folliculitis were not prominent. Follicular hyperplasia, follicular plugging, interstitial mucin, lichenoid/interface dermatitis, and plasma cells were significantly more common in DLE biopsies, while follicular mucinosis and eosinophils were significantly more common in FMF samples. Cytologic atypia ranged from none to mild in DLE and mild to moderate in FMF. Rarely, both sets of biopsies contained epidermotropism, spongiosis, or peri‐eccrine infiltration.

Conclusion

While many histopathological features present in DLE overlap with features found in FMF, such as folliculocentrism and folliculotropism, significant differences do exist. Therefore, when diagnosing FMF, it is important to follow established criteria that differentiate this malignancy from inflammatory conditions such as DLE.
S3‐Leitlinie: Diagnostik und Therapie der epidermalen Nekrolyse (Stevens‐Johnson‐Syndrom und toxisch epidermale Nekrolyse) – Teil 2: Supportive Therapie von EN im akuten und postakuten Stadium
Authors: Paulmann Maren , Heuer Ruben , Annecke Thorsten , Behr Björn , Boch Katharina , Boos Anja M. , Brockow Knut , French Lars E. , Gille Jochen , Gundlach Verena , Hartmann Bernd , Höger Peter , Hofmann Silke C. , Klein Tobias , Lehnhardt Marcus , Liß Yvonne , Maier Philip , Mandel Philipp , Marathovouniotis Nicos , Marlok Finnja , Mittelviefhaus Hans , Pleyer Uwe , Pradeau Marie , Rall Katharina , Rieg Siegbert , Rittner Heike , Sander Frank , Schnitzler Stefan , Schut Christina , Stolle Annette , Vorobyev Artem , Wedi Bettina , Weiss Johannes , Zepp Maximilian , Ziemer Mirjana , Mockenhaupt Maja , Nast Alexander
Published: November 2024

Stevens‐Johnson‐Syndrom und toxisch epidermale Nekrolyse (SJS/TEN) sind seltene, in erster Linie arzneimittelinduzierte, akut lebensbedrohliche Erkrankungen der Haut und Schleimhäute. SJS und TEN werden heute als Varianten einer Krankheitsentität mit unterschiedlichem Schweregrad betrachtet, die als epidermale Nekrolyse (EN) bezeichnet wird. Die epidermale Nekrolyse geht mit hoher Morbidität und Letalität einher und stellt eine große Krankheitslast für die Betroffenen dar. Die Leitlinie „Diagnostik und Therapie der epidermalen Nekrolyse (Stevens‐Johnson‐Syndrom und toxisch epidermale Nekrolyse)“ wurde unter systematischer Berücksichtigung bestehender wissenschaftlicher Literatur und im formalen Konsensusverfahren nach dem Regelwerk der AWMF entwickelt, um klinische Entscheidungsfindungen evidenzbasiert zu unterstützen. Die interdisziplinäre Leitlinienkommission bestand aus Vertretern verschiedener Fachgesellschaften sowie aus Patientenvertretern. Die Leitlinie richtet sich an Ärzte der Fachgebiete Dermatologie, Ophthalmologie, plastische Chirurgie, Intensivmedizin sowie Kinder‐ und Jugendmedizin in Klinik und Praxis sowie an andere medizinische Fachgebiete, die an der Diagnostik und Behandlung von EN beteiligt sind. Zusätzlich richtet sich die Leitlinie an Patienten, deren Angehörige, Kostenträger und politische Entscheidungsträger. Dieser zweite Teil behandelt die Themen der supportiven Therapie in der Akutphase von EN und die ambulante Weiterbehandlung.
How Do Species Traits and Biogeographical Factors Determine the Fate of Amphibians After Long‐Term Fragmentation?
Authors: Chen Chuanwu , Zhan Chengxiu , Foufopoulos Johannes , Wang Yanping
Published: November 2024

Aim

Identifying key factors that render certain species more vulnerable to fragmentation is vital for elucidating processes underlying extinction and targeting conservation priorities. However, few studies have explored the delayed ecological responses of species following isolation. To bridge the gap, we conducted comprehensive analyses of correlates of extinction vulnerability and biogeographical variation in amphibians over long‐term fragmentation.

Location

Zhoushan Archipelago, China.

Methods

We sampled the occupancy of amphibians on 37 land‐bridge islands. We calculated three metrics of extinction vulnerability (population extinction rate, island occupancy frequency and species nestedness ranking) for each species and correlated these variables with eight species' traits. We further explored biogeographical variations in amphibians by relating five biogeographical variables to species' probability of occurrence and calculated the threshold for the persistence of each species on islands.

Results

Species with low natural abundance, larger egg sizes, smaller clutch sizes or restricted geographical distributions were more likely to experience higher population extinction rates and species nestedness rankings, while lower island occupancy frequencies across islands. Although most species were found on larger islands, we observed significant increases in the occurrence probabilities with island area for five species. The estimated areas with a 50% chance of occurrence ranged from 0.39 to 199.5 km2. Interestingly, the likelihood of occurrence of Hyla chinensis (treefrog) was negatively related to distance to the mainland after controlling for the effect of area.

Main Conclusions

Our study highlights the variation in the fragmentation sensitivity of amphibians. Species distribution was primarily regulated by area‐related extinction, particularly for those with ‘slow’ life history strategies or restricted ranges. Overall, management efforts should focus on species with extinction‐prone traits and landscape features that threaten the persistence of populations. Future studies should consider the sequential separation of island populations and the interaction of traits to reveal the fate of species to fragmentation.
Clinical Efficacy of CBCT and 3D‐Printed Replicas in Molar Autotransplantation: A Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Lejnieks Miks , Akota Ilze , Jākobsone Gundega , Neimane Laura , Uribe Sergio E.
Published: November 2024

Background/Aim

To evaluate the efficacy of the combined cone‐beam (CBCT)/3D‐replicas protocol on the clinical and radiographic outcomes of autotransplanted molars.

Material and Methods

Controlled clinical trial registered ISRCTN13563091 from August 2019 to September 2022. Patients aged 13–22 years requiring permanent premolar extraction and having at least one non‐erupted third molar were enrolled at the Institute of Stomatology, Stradins University, Riga, Latvia. Patients in the 3D‐replicas (n = 30) underwent maxillary CBCT scans and had 3D‐printed replicas of the third molar fabricated, while the control group (n = 28) did not. The clinical outcomes included tooth mobility, bleeding on probing, and periodontal pocket depth assessed at 3, 6, and 12 months. The radiographic outcomes included root development, obliteration, periapical status, and crown changes at 12 months.

Results

Of the 55 patients assigned to interventions, 46 completed the study. No significant differences in survival and radiographic outcomes were found between the control (n = 22) and 3D‐replica group (n = 24): root development (p = 0.3), root resorption (p = 0.057), periapical status (p = 0.7), and crown/root ratio change (p = 0.4). Logistic regression showed no significant associations between radiologic predictors (root resorption: p = 0.4; periapical status: p > 0.9; root development: p = 0.8). Significant clinical outcome predictors included total operative time (β = 0.0043, p = 0.049), Moorrees' stage (stage 4: β = −0.31, p < 0.001; stage 5: β = −0.39, p < 0.001), and four donor placement times (β = 0.93, p < 0.001), but group assignment was not a significant predictor.

Conclusions

The CBCT/3D‐replica protocol showed no significant differences in the clinical or radiological outcomes. The high success rates in both groups suggest that the protocol is valuable primarily for optimizing surgical efficiency and as a training tool for clinicians.
Bias and precision of predicted densities of overabundant kangaroo populations
Authors: Hone Jim , Snape Melissa
Published: November 2024

Validated predictions of wildlife population density would be very useful for managers of overabundant wildlife and their effects on biodiversity. In this study such predictions were generated by modelling population dynamics of 18 non‐culled populations of Eastern Grey Kangaroos (Macropus giganteus) across small biodiversity conservation reserves in Canberra. Predictions were validated using three analyses of independent, out‐of‐sample, data from 11 populations which were non‐culled or culled. Association (analysis 1) showed observed and predicted densities were significantly positively correlated (R2 = 0.79, P = 0.045, n = 5) with unbiased slope and y intercept for non‐culled populations, though observed and predicted densities of culled populations were unrelated (R2 = 0.32, P = 0.24, n = 6). Coverage (analysis 2) showed predicted densities were within the 95% confidence interval of observed densities in five of five non‐culled populations and four of six culled populations, with one underestimate and one overestimate in the latter group. Bias (analysis 3) showed the mean bias (=observed – predicted) was 0.18 (±0.23 SE) kangaroos/ha for non‐culled and 0.08 (±0.23 SE) for culled populations. The results have been used to adjust kangaroo management approaches in Canberra as part of adaptive management.
Understanding How, Why and for Whom Link Work Interventions Promote Access in Community Healthcare Settings in the United Kingdom: A Realist Review
Authors: Golby Rebecca , Lobban Fiona , Laverty Louise , Velemis Kyriakos , Aggarwal Vishal R. , Berry Katherine , Morris Abby , Elliott Emma , Harris Rebecca , Ross Al , Chew‐Graham Carolyn A. , Budd Miranda , McGowan Linda , Shiers David , Caton Neil , Lodge Chris , French Paul , Griffiths Robert , Palmier‐Claus Jasper
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Inequity in access to healthcare in the United Kingdom can have a profound impact on people's ability to manage their health problems. Link work interventions attempt to overcome the socioeconomic and structural barriers that perpetuate health inequalities. Link workers are typically staff members without professional clinical qualifications who support patients to bridge the gap between services. However, little is currently known about how and why link work interventions might be effective. This realist review attempts to understand the contexts and resultant mechanisms by which link work interventions affect access to community healthcare services.

Methods

The authors completed a systematic search of empirical literature in Embase, CINAHL, Medline, PsychInfo and SocIndex, as well as grey literature and CLUSTER searches. Context, mechanism and outcome (CMO) configurations were generated iteratively in consultation with an expert panel and grouped into theory areas.

Results

Thirty‐one eligible manuscripts were identified, resulting in nine CMO configurations within three theory areas. These pertained to adequate time in time‐pressured systems; the importance of link workers being embedded across multiple systems; and emotional and practical support for link workers.

Conclusion

Although link work interventions are increasingly utilised across community healthcare settings, the contexts in which they operate vary considerably, triggering a range of mechanisms. The findings suggest that careful matching of resources to patient need and complexity is important. It affords link workers the time to develop relationships with patients, embed themselves in local communities and referring teams, and develop knowledge of local challenges.

Patient or Public Contribution

The team included people with lived experience of mental health conditions and a carer who were involved at all stages of the review.
Suppressing the thermal conduction in glass–ceramic foams by controlling crystallization
Authors: Thomsen Line , Yue Yuanzheng , Østergaard Martin B.
Published: November 2024

Glass‐based insulating materials have attracted considerable attention owing to their tailorable properties. It is known that the thermal conductivity of glass ceramics can be greatly influenced by varying their crystallinity. However, the mechanism of such influence in glass–ceramic foams remains poorly understood. In this study, we demonstrate our new findings regarding the correlation between thermal conductivity and crystallinity in silicate glass–ceramic foams. The foams were produced by mixing ZrO2‐containing soda‐lime glass powder with CaCO3 as foaming agent and foam them using a thermochemical approach. ZrO2 was introduced as a nucleation agent. The crystallinity of the foams was varied by adjusting the heating protocol, i.e., by varying temperature, time, and number of heating cycles. The glass–ceramic foams exhibited relative crystallinities of <30%. The identity of the crystalline phases in the glass–ceramic foams varies with crystallinity. Specifically, cristobalite diminished, but devitrite grew with increasing crystallinity. It was observed that the crystallinity had a nonmonotonic impact on the thermal conductivity of the glass–ceramic foams. The optimum crystallinity for achieving the lowest thermal conductivity was 8–10%, resulting in an approximately 20% lower thermal conductivity compared to noncrystalline. Our findings have implications for the future design of glass–ceramic foams.
Prenatal drivers of microglia vulnerability in the adult
Authors: Tagliatti Erica , Bizzotto Matteo , Morini Raffaella , Filipello Fabia , Rasile Marco , Matteoli Michela
Published: November 2024

Environmental insults during early development heavily affect brain trajectories. Among these, maternal infections, high‐fat diet regimens, and sleep disturbances pose a significant risk for neurodevelopmental derangements in the offspring. Notably, scattered evidence is starting to emerge that also paternal lifestyle habits may impact the offspring development. Given their key role in controlling neurogenesis, synaptogenesis and shaping neuronal circuits, microglia represent the most likely suspects of mediating the detrimental effects of prenatal insults. For some of these environmental triggers, like maternal infections, ample literature evidence demonstrates the central role of microglia, also delineating the specific transcriptomic and proteomic profiles induced by these insults. In other contexts, the analysis of microglia is still in its infancy. Fostering these studies is needed to define microglia as potential therapeutic target in the frame of disorders consequent to maternal immune activation.
Investigating the correlation of hip circumference to cardiovascular disease and type‐2 diabetes using Mendelian randomization
Authors: Liu Hongtao , Li Zhaoyu , Yan Su , Ming Shaopeng
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study aimed to assess the correlation between hip circumference (HC) and the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus using Mendelian randomization (MR) to overcome observational study limitations.

Design

MR analysis utilized genetic variation from the MR Base in a two‐sample analysis. Three methods were employed: MR‐Egger regression, weighted median estimator, and inverse variance weighting (IVW).

Setting

Data was acquired from MR Base, a platform summarizing genome‐wide association study (GWAS) data for MR research.

Main Outcome Measures

Publicly available summary statistics datasets from GWAS meta‐analyses were used, with HC and HC adjusted for body mass index (BMI) as exposures. Data for CVD and type 2 diabetes mellitus were obtained as outcomes.

Results

Results indicated a positive causal relationship between HC and CVD (IVW: P = 1.84e‐07, OR: 1.37, 95% CI: 1.22–1.54) as well as type 2 diabetes mellitus (IVW: P = 0.04, OR: 1.62, 95% CI: 1.02–2.56), independent of BMI. However, HC after BMI adjustment showed no significant causal relationship with CVD (IVW: P = 0.05, OR: 1.09, 95% CI: 1.00–1.19) and exhibited a negative association with type 2 diabetes mellitus (IVW: P = 0.00, OR: 0.76, 95% CI: 0.66–0.88), suggesting a protective effect against type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Conclusions

After adjusting for BMI, adipose tissue concentrated in the hip region showed a protective effect against type 2 diabetes mellitus but not against CVD. These findings offer insights into diabetes prevention and treatment strategies, and may inform plastic surgery procedures. Further research is needed to validate these findings and explore underlying mechanisms.
Esthetic and Functional Posterior Rehabilitation With Lithium Disilicate Ceramics for the Replacement of Gold Alloy and Metal‐Ceramic Restorations: A Clinical Case With a 10‐Year Follow‐Up
Authors: Fonseca Manrique , Molinero‐Mourelle Pedro , Rabel Kerstin , Mittmann Clemens , Abou‐Ayash Samir , Schimmel Martin
Published: November 2024

Objective

This case report illustrates a clinical scenario of a patient with insufficient crowns, gold onlays and localized tooth pain in the posterior teeth, treated with partial and full coverage lithium disilicate restorations.

Clinical Considerations

A female patient presented in the clinics, complaining about tooth pain and unesthetic metal restorations. After a thorough examination, diagnosis and treatment plan, the existing restorations were removed, and a defect‐oriented preparation was done to preserve as much as possible of the remaining tooth structure. Final partial and full coverage lithium disilicate restorations were delivered. After a 10‐year follow‐up no biological complications were observed. Nevertheless, one major chipping was observed in one of the upper molars. This technical complication was resolved with the fabrication of a new ceramic restoration.

Conclusion

Lithium disilicate ceramic posterior full‐ or partial‐coverage restorations are a reliable and predictable treatment option not only for the replacement of tooth structure lost due to caries but also for the replacement of insufficient restorations.

Clinical Significance

The following key factors are to be considered to pursue long‐term success with ceramic restorations: patient selection, minimal invasive tooth preparation, appropriate material selection and cementation. Nevertheless, complications are to be expected, and the patient should be informed accordingly.
Power Plays in the Eastern Mediterranean And the Decline of US‐Turkey Relations
Authors: Şahin Devrim
Published: November 2024

In the summer of 2020, Turkey and Greece deployed naval vessels in the contested eastern Mediterranean waters, which led first to a standoff and eventually a collision. Soon after, a US warship arrived at Crete. While this move should have been intended to calm tensions between the two historical rivals, some observers saw this as a show of support for Greece, marking a significant shift from the traditional American role of mediator. This article examines the US responses to gas exploration and other disputes in the eastern Mediterranean, including the Greek‐Turkish divide over Cyprus. It argues that Washington's tilt toward Athens has been pushing Ankara to deepen its economic, diplomatic, and even military relations with Moscow. The United States could rebalance with Turkey and drive a wedge between it and Russia, for instance through incorporating its NATO ally into strategies for reducing Europe's reliance on President Vladimir Putin for energy resources. But if the current zero‐sum approach persists, Turkey is likely to continue to look east—which is not in the American interest.
Democratic interventionists versus pragmatic realists: Employing the advocacy coalition framework to explain Obama's shift in multilateralism with European allies
Authors: Haar Roberta N.
Published: November 2024

This research employs the advocacy coalition framework (ACF) to examine two coalitions of U.S. foreign policy during the early part of Barack Obama's presidency when U.S. policy shifted from leading multilateral security operations with European allies to catalyzing others to lead. It identifies the primary members of two coalitions, the Democratic Interventionists and the Pragmatic Realists, who held differing beliefs about U.S. foreign policy. I investigate the beliefs of the members of these coalitions regarding the U.S. role in multilateral security operations, the policy preferences that emerge from those beliefs, the many strategies employed to ensure the adoption of their policy preferences, and the impact of the implemented policy. The ACF facilitates consideration of the strategy, means, and settings that the Pragmatic Realist coalition used to win the policy debate in the Obama administration. This article further provides a greater understanding of the circumstances that support U.S. multilateralism.

Related Articles

Dolan, Chris J. 2008. “The Shape of Elite Opinion on U.S. Foreign Policy, 1992 to 2004.” Politics & Policy 36(4): 542–85. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2007.00121.x/abstract.

Haar, Roberta N., and Lutz F. Krebs. 2021. “The Failure of Foreign Policy Entrepreneurs in the Trump Administration.” Politics & Policy 49(2): 446–73. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12399.

Lasher, Kevin J., and Christine Sixta Rinehart. 2016. “The Shadowboxer: The Obama Administration and Foreign Policy Grand Strategy.” Politics & Policy 44(5): 850–88. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12175.
Using the sociopolitical motive × intergroup threat model of intergroup relations to understand opposition to policies that promote social equality
Authors: Ho Arnold K. , Kteily Nour S.
Published: November 2024

In the last several decades, social psychologists have identified several social and political motives that undergird conflict between groups (e.g., racial group conflict), and the conditions under which individuals holding these motives are most likely to oppose policies that promote greater equality between groups. In the current article, we introduce a framework that integrates these insights—the sociopolitical motive × intergroup threat model of intergroup relations—and leverage the model to help advocates for social equality identify likely sources of opposition to or support for their initiatives. By understanding the psychological motives that lead individuals to oppose or support policies that promote social equality, policymakers may be better positioned to craft and communicate policies in a manner that benefits and appeals to as many constituents as possible.
A sex‐dependent algorithm including kappa free light chain for multiple sclerosis diagnosis
Authors: Maroto‐García Julia , Mañez Minerva , Martínez‐Escribano Ana , Hachmaoui‐Ridaoui Ahlam , Ortiz Carmen , Ábalos‐García Carmen , Gónzález Inmaculada , García de la Torre Ángela , Ruiz‐Galdón Maximiliano
Published: November 2024

Multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis includes the presence of restricted oligoclonal bands (OCB) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), but it has several limitations, as it is an observer‐dependent time‐consuming technique and offers a dichotomous result. Thus kappa free light chains (KFLC) have emerged as a quantitative alternative. However, the cut‐off values for KFLC have not been well established yet and it is not clear if differences between sexes exist. We aim to evaluate these and to compare the diagnostic accuracy of KFLC concentrations and their related indexes versus OCB. For that purpose, paired CSF and serum samples were collected and immediately processed for albumin, total protein, immunoglobulins and OCB, then frozen at −20°C. KFLC was measured in a BN II (Siemens Healthineers, Germany). KFLC‐derived indexes were calculated. Diagnostic accuracy was evaluated by the area under the curve (AUC), Youden's index and odds ratio. From the 193 patients included, 56 were classified as MS according to the 2017 McDonald criteria. K‐index, Q KFLC and Reiber's diagram showed good accuracy in MS diagnosis when studied distinguishing between sexes, similar to OCB. Cut‐offs for K‐index and Q KFLC change substantially between sex having the highest AUC similar than OCB. A sex‐dependent algorithm combining the use of K‐index, Q KFLC and OCB yields the highest diagnostic accuracy. In conclusion, CSF KFLC measurement is a rapid, quantitative and easy‐to‐standardize tool that used through the proposed sex‐dependent algorithm may reduce the number of manual OCB tests performed.
Social media quality in undergraduate medical education: A reconceptualisation and taxonomy
Authors: Guckian Jonathan , Edwards Sarah , Rees Eliot L. , Burford Bryan
Published: November 2024

Background

Social Media (SoMe) as a learning tool, though ubiquitous in society and popular within medical education, is often criticised as superficial. Its limitless output has been blamed for encouraging shorter attention spans and shirking in‐depth reflection. The evidence base is itself superficial and lacking rigour or meaning. We aimed to consider a theoretical basis for how ‘quality’ learning may happen on such platforms. Our findings then informed the construction of a taxonomy for SoMe learning.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative interview study of United Kingdom (UK) medical students using a theory‐informed inductive study design. The research question was: ‘How do medical students conceptualise quality of learning on social media?’. We purposively sampled participants from responses to a short survey collecting demographic and SoMe usage data. Interview data were analysed using framework analysis and informed by Blooms taxonomy, connectivism and communities of practice (CoP) theories.

Results

We received survey responses from 118 medical students across 25 UK medical schools. From these, 13 participants were recruited to individual semi‐structured interviews. We constructed three themes through framework analysis of interview data: cognitive hacking, professional identity reflection and safety, control and capital.

Discussion

Quality SoMe learning may be conceptualised as a socially connected process, built upon constantly evolving networks but inexorably influenced by fluctuating hierarchy within learner‐centric CoP. Educators and institutions may support high‐quality learning for students through engagement which promotes community development, and safe, listening environments which foster professional identity formation.
Exploring clinician perspectives of systems‐based practice: A physician training challenge
Authors: DeWaters Ami L. , Banerjee Somalee , Bruce James , Cooney Rob , Ellison Halle B. , Haidet Paul , Mazotti Lindsay , Reilly James B. , Gonzalo Jed D.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Systems‐based practice (SBP) has been a competency in US graduate medical education for over 20 years, but it is not well implemented. SBP is loosely defined as physician's responsiveness to the larger system of healthcare. The aim of this study was to describe healthcare professionals' perspectives regarding: (1) their knowledge and beliefs about SBP and (2) their beliefs regarding factors in clinical learning environments (CLE) that facilitate or hinder operationalisation and learning of SBP.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted between November 2020 and April 2021 with 42 individuals from four health systems. Participants were healthcare professionals involved in graduate medical education, including physicians and interprofessional clinicians (e.g., nursing staff). Interviews were transcribed and coded using a social constructivist, codebook thematic analysis approach and themes were agreed upon through discussion amongst the research team.

Results

Five themes were constructed: (1) SBP remains a challenge to define, (2) SBP may be intuitively understood, particularly when framed at the microsystem level, (3) SBP aligns with the Health Systems Science framework, (4) SBP learning must be intentionally integrated into the CLE, through training such as onboarding and (5) multidisciplinary settings and work processes are critical to engage in SBP. Workload compression is a barrier to SBP implementation.

Conclusions

Healthcare professionals highlighted that current CLEs are not designed to prioritise SBP. Graduate medical education programmes may benefit from focusing systems content at the microsystem level and purposefully integrating onboarding procedures, clinical settings and rotations specifically designed to teach SBP into their residencies.