bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of 3D-printed PLA material with different filling densities on coefficient of friction performance
Authors: Şirin Şenol , Aslan Enes , Akincioğlu Gülşah
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is the investigation of the friction performance of 3D-printed polylactic acid (PLA) at different infill densities.

Design/methodology/approach

PLA samples were printed with fused filament fabrication (FFF). Friction performance test of PLA samples were performed under 18 N load at 20 min, 40 min and 60 min using a pin-on-disc tester. Diameter deviation, hardness of 3D-printed PLA, weight variation, coefficient of friction, temperature and wear images were chosen as performance criteria.

Findings

The hardness values of the samples with 30%, 50% and 70% infill density were determined as 93.9, 99.93 and 102.67 Shore D, respectively. The friction of coefficient values obtained in these samples at 20 min, 40 min and 60 min were measured as 0.5737, 0.4454 and 0.3824, respectively. The least deformation occurred in the sample with 50% occupancy rate and during the test period of 20 min.

Practical implications

The aim of this study was to determine the best friction performance of 3D-printed biodegradable and biocompatible PLA with different infill densities.

Originality/value

In the literature, several studies can be found on the mechanical characteristics of 3D-printed parts produced with PLA. However, investigations on the wear characterisation of these parts are very limited. In this regard, the friction coefficient results obtained from different infill density of 3D-printed PLA used in this study will significantly contribute to the literature.
Examining the understandings of young adult South African men who stutter: The question of disability
Authors: Isaacs Dane , Swartz Leslie
Published: July 2022

Background

A disability studies approach seeks to understand and address political and social issues that affect disabled individuals. Disability studies scholars employ various models of disability to address and oppose the oppression and discrimination of disabled individuals. A disability studies approach, however, has largely been absent in studies that have investigated the lived experiences of people who stutter.

Aim

To examine the understandings young adult South African men who stutter hold of whether, and in what way, stuttering may be considered to be a disability.

Methods & Procedures

A total of 15 men who stutter, aged 20–39 years, participated in the study. Semi‐structured interviews and two focus groups discussions were conducted to collect data for the study. The data were analysed according to a phenomenological approach and the affective turn in social research.

Outcomes & Results

The results indicated that some men in this study understood stuttering as a speech disorder that can be controlled, while other men constructed stuttering as a disability, subjectively positioning themselves either as disabled or non‐disabled men.

Conclusions & Implications

This article emphasizes the importance of adopting a disability studies approach when examining the lived experiences of people who stutter and enhancing intervention strategies to adequately address the disabled needs of such individuals.

WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS

What is already known on the subject?

The past few decades have seen researchers investigating the personal and social experiences of people who stutter. However, empirical studies exploring the disabling experiences of people who stutter have been absent from the existing body of knowledge.

What this paper adds to existing knowledge?

This research aimed to provide comprehensive insight into the disabling experiences of people who stutter. The results gave an insight into the oppression and disablism experienced by people who stutter. More specifically, the findings demonstrated how individuals who stutter are disabled by oppressive communication practices that dominate spaces of education and employment.

What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?

Several men in this study attended speech therapy to gain control over their stuttering. For a number of participants, speech therapy proved a valuable experience, while others saw speech therapy as being out of touch with their lived reality of stuttering. Speech and language therapists are encouraged to employ a disability studies approach in order to enhance intervention strategies to adequately address the disabling needs of people who stutter.
Beyond Euro‐Americancentric Forms of Racism and Anti‐racism
Authors: Modood Tariq , Sealy Thomas
Published: July 2022

Following the killing of George Floyd by the police in the US in May 2020, a new anti‐racism has erupted across the world. While this anti‐racism is squarely focussed on dismantling anti‐black racism, scholarship—especially in western Europe—has for some decades now been emphasising racisms: Anti‐South Asian racism, Islamophobia and Sinophobia in Britain, anti‐Arab racism in France and anti‐Turk and anti‐migrant racisms in Germany, and so on. These various forms of racism do not just refer to the use of biological features, but also perceived cultural features in the way that particular groups are constructed and rendered as ‘other’—cultural racisms. Yet, this scholarship is deeply Euro‐Americancentric as it barely acknowledges racisms outside the West and least of all racisms that do not involve white perpetrators. This special issue considers a number of such racisms and anti‐racisms in Asia and the Middle East.
The Concurrence of Anti‐Racism and Anti‐Casteism
Authors: Dhanda Meena
Published: July 2022

The article considers three interlocking ways in which we can understand the concurrence of anti‐racism and anti‐casteism in the Indian diaspora. First, at the level of experience—of UK activists and campaigners—it has been found that the concurrence of anti‐racism and anti‐casteism is not conclusively determined at this level. Second, by a juxtaposition of the conceptual apparatus of ‘caste’ and ‘race’ the article considers the fault lines—illuminating or obfuscating—that appear in conceptualising anti‐casteism as a form of anti‐racism. Here, the sociality of caste is found to be important, the operation of racialisation underpinning anti‐racist practice. Finally, by considering the legal apparatus available in a given jurisdiction (UK), the article evaluates the feasibility of measures that might facilitate the actualising of anti‐casteism as a form of anti‐racism through the practice of litigation to allow a pragmatic capturing of the experience of casteism as a form of racism.
From Official to Grassroots Racism: Transformation of Anti‐Chinese Sentiment in Indonesia
Authors: Tanasaldy Taufiq
Published: July 2022

Indonesia has a long history of racism towards its Chinese population dating back to colonial times. Its population has suffered through discriminatory policies and a series of racist riots, some sponsored by the state. This article examines the transformation of racism towards the Indonesian Chinese by summarising the past, before investigating recent developments. While the Chinese have enjoyed unprecedented political freedom since the fall of the racist New Order regime, they have been witnessing worrying developments, including: continuing racist attitudes of some officials and political elites; a proliferation of Shariah‐inspired bylaws in the regions; and lastly, unresolved grassroots racism. Grassroots racism has become more difficult to tackle as it has intertwined with religious issues, making being anti‐Chinese justifiable. This article suggests that a counter‐narrative from Islamic moderate civil organisations would be needed to redress the religious sentiment in native Chinese relations.
Neoadjuvant ceritinib treatment in ALK‐rearranged locally advanced adenosquamous carcinoma: A case report
Authors: Mai Shixiong , Wang Yue , Wang Xuemei , Yang Wei , Gao Haicheng , Xu Zhenan , Xu Lei , Xu Li , Ou Qiuxiang , Chen Hanlin , Wang Zhenxing
Published: July 2022

Here, we first report a case of neoadjuvant ceritinib for locally advanced lung adenosquamous carcinoma. In this study, a locally advanced adenosquamous carcinoma (ASC) patient with EML4‐ALK fusion who achieved a partial response with neoadjuvant ceritinib treatment after a cycle of neoadjuvant chemotherapy did not show significant efficacy. A complete surgical resection was performed with mild adhesions and a small amount of bleeding intraoperatively. The EML4‐ALK fusion was detected by targeted next‐generation sequencing (NGS) in both pretreatment biopsy and the postoperative tissue specimens with a dramatic decrease in the allele frequency (26.2% [pre]–2.3% [post]). Pathological examination of the postoperative specimens indicated a diagnosis of ASC but the proportions of adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma cells in the primary lung tumor and metastatic lymph node site were different, suggesting the various responses to ceritinib. Thus, with the case presented here, we provide the clinical evidence for ALK‐positive locally advanced ASC patients benefiting from neoadjuvant ceritinib treatment with a tolerable safety profile, whereas further cohort studies of the efficacy and safety of neoadjuvant ceritinib in such patients are needed.
Age structure dynamics in an eastern collared lizard population from founding to demographic stability
Authors: Templeton A. R. , Neuwald J. L. , Conley A. K.
Published: July 2022

The global decline of reptile species has raised much concern, and many translocation programs have been implemented in response to this decline. Most of these programs have not been successful, but one exception is the translocation program for eastern collared lizards (Crotophytus collaris collaris) that had experienced massive local extinction on glades in the Ozarks in central North America. Translocation coupled with glade restoration was initiated in the 1980s, including reintroductions starting in 1984 on Stegall Mountain in southern Missouri. The translocated populations underwent three distinct demographic phases: (1) an isolate phase with no net growth in population size, no colonization of nearby glades and almost no dispersal among populations, (2) a colonizing phase of high dispersal, colonization of new glades and population growth that started with the onset of prescribed woodland burning and (3) a stable metapopulation phase established by 2000 on Stegall Mountain in which the number of occupied glades, total population size and measures of genetic variation were roughly constant. This study uses distinct color phases to infer the age of 1162 marked individuals. Age probabilities were assigned to 391 individuals based on time‐of‐capture within the field season and snout‐vent length, as calibrated from following 529 individuals first captured as hatchlings. Age structure differed significantly between phases. The isolate phase was characterized by an old age structure. The colonization phase had a younger age structure and much more recruitment. The stable metapopulation phase had an intermediate age structure. These dynamic age structure attributes show that species cannot be regarded as static units, and ignoring this dynamism can result in poor conservation practice. These results also validate age‐structure as a monitoring device for a conservation program and a tool to identify significant shifts in the environment or management that have a conservation impact, in this case prescribed woodland burning.
Morphological variations in the transverse foramen of the axis in Japanese serows (Capricornis crispus)
Authors: Onouchi Sawa , Yoshida Tomoki , Mori Takashi , Saito Shouichiro , Atoji Yasuro
Published: July 2022

The presence of transverse foramina in the axes of Japanese serows, a special national natural treasure in Japan, has been reported to be unstable, but other variations are unknown. In this study, we analysed the shape, cross‐sectional area, length, and volume of the transverse foramen in the axes of 19 specimens using gross anatomy and computed tomography (CT) scan. There were four types in the transverse foramen: type 1, having the transverse foramina; type 2, having two cranial openings; type 3, sifting a caudal opening to the ventral side of the transverse process; and type 4, having no transverse foramina. Although the transverse foramina showed different types on the left and right sides in several specimens, there were no statistically significant differences in the length and volume. This variation may be related to running patterns of the vertebral artery penetrating the transverse foramina. Two goats without the transverse foramina were examined to infer a running pattern of the vertebral artery instead of Japanese serows. The vertebral artery in the goats branched in two directions (spinal and muscle), between the axis and the third cervical vertebra. This passage of the goat vertebral artery might be presumed in type 4 of Japanese serows. This study reveals the instability of the transverse foramina in the axes of Japanese serows and provides new data to compare the axes of other ruminants.
History, Social Science, and Public Policy: Reflections on Hugh Stretton's Thought
Authors: Orchard Lionel
Published: July 2022

This article examines aspects of Hugh Stretton's thought, challenging an exclusively historical reading of his work and defending his importance as a theoretically engaged thinker on a wide range of issues in the social, political, and economic sciences. While Stretton distanced himself from strong theoretical claims in his work, this paper argues that he did articulate and defend a general framework for social, political, and economic thought and analysis, which needs to be better understood. This is examined through engagement with some of Stretton's contributions on cities, social democratic reform, economic rationalist and neoliberal thought, and public policy. Some concluding arguments are made linking Stretton's thought to that of other thinkers and theorists in the social, political, and economic sciences. In making these connections it is argued that his work is best viewed as an exercise in intellectual trespassing and interpretive social science, and as a normative defence of social democracy.
R0 resection of vaginal stump recurrence of gynecologic malignancy by bi‐directional endoscopic approach: A case series of four patients
Authors: Yokoe Takuya , Kita Masato , Butsuhara Yusuke , Hisamatsu Yoji , Okada Hidetaka
Published: July 2022

Vaginal stump recurrence post‐hysterectomy for gynecologic malignancies occurs in 2%–3% of cases. Local excision has been recognized as the primary treatment of localized recurrence, in which precise surgical margin is critical. However, R0 resection is not always easy, given the deep and narrow operation field, as well as severe postoperative fibrosis or adhesion of the vaginal stump at times. Here, we report four cases of vaginal stump recurrence of gynecologic malignancies resected by bi‐directional (laparoscopic and pneumovaginoscopic) endoscopy to overcome these difficulties. The primary tumors were uterine cancer in two cases and uterine cervical and ovarian cancer in one case each. The mean operating time was 199 (162–235) minutes, blood loss was minimal, and no perioperative complications were observed. Postoperative follow‐up (7.0–19.4 months) revealed no recurrence. This combined procedure could be a therapeutic option for localized vaginal stump recurrence.
Justifying ethical values: A purposive ethics for managers
Authors: Spillane Robert , Joullié Jean‐Etienne
Published: July 2022

This essay addresses the question of how managers justify ethical values. Traditionally, ethical values have been justified by appeals to intuition expressed injunctively and judged to be obligatory. This tradition has led to ethical relativism and a widespread scepticism about the possibility of basing ethics on reasoning. There are, however, alternative strategies for ethical justification in which conclusions are derived deductively from purposive propositions. This essay revisits the notion of reason, purpose and ethical justification in management to outline a purposive ethics for managers. The implications for management practice and relevance for management researchers of such an ethics are presented and defended.
Predictors of early mortality in multiple myeloma: Results from the Australian and New Zealand Myeloma and Related Diseases Registry (MRDR)
Authors: McQuilten Zoe , Wellard Cameron , Moore Elizabeth , Augustson Bradley , Bergin Krystal , Blacklock Hilary , Harrison Simon , Ho P. Joy , King Tracy , Quach Hang , Mollee Peter , Rosengarten Brian , Walker Patricia , Wood Erica , Spencer Andrew ,   Australian and New Zealand Myeloma and Related Diseases Registry
Published: July 2022

The frequency and causes of early mortality in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) have not been well described in the era of novel agents. We investigated early mortality in a prospective cohort study of all patients with NDMM registered on the Australian and New Zealand Myeloma and Related Diseases Registry (MRDR) at 36 institutions between July 2011 and March 2020. Early mortality was defined as death from any cause within the first 12 months after diagnosis. A total of 2377 patients with NDMM were included in the analysis, with a median (interquartile range) age of 67.4 (58.9–74.60 years, and 60% were male. Overall, 216 (9.1%) patients died within 12 months, with 119 (4.5%) having died within 6 months. Variables that were independent predictors of early mortality after adjustment in multivariable regression included age (odds ratio [OR] 1.07, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.05–1.08; p < 0.001), Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (OR 1.50, 95% CI 1.26–1.79; p < 0.001), serum albumin (OR 0.95, 95% CI 0.93–0.98; p < 0.001), cardiac disease (OR 1.96, 95% CI 1.35–2.86; p < 0.001) and International Staging System (OR 1.40, 95% CI 1.07–1.82; p = 0.01). For those with a primary cause of death available, it was reported as disease‐related in 151 (78%), infection 13 (7%), other 29 (15%). Infection was listed as a contributing factor for death in 38% of patients.
How collective bargaining shapes poverty: New evidence for developed countries
Authors: Pineda‐Hernández Kevin , Rycx François , Volral Mélanie
Published: July 2022

Although many studies point to the significant influence of collective bargaining (CB) institutions on earnings inequalities, evidence on how these institutions shape poverty rates across developed economies remains surprisingly scarce. This paper explicitly addresses the relationship between CB systems and working‐age poverty ratesbeforeandaftertaxes and transfers in 24 developed countries over the period 1990–2015. Our results show that countries with a more centralized CB system, a more extended bargaining coverage rate and/or a higher trade union density display significantly lower poverty rates. However, these results only hold in a post‐tax benefit scenario. Controlling for country and time fixed effects and a wide range of covariates, our estimates indeed suggest that the poverty‐reducing effect of CB institutions stems from the political strength of trade unions in promoting public social spending rather than from any direct effect on earnings inequalities. Sensitivity tests for endogeneity and overlapping samples support this conclusion.
Validation of the Italian version of the Tool to Measure Parenting Self‐Efficacy questionnaire using data from an intervention study
Authors: Roncaglia Francesca , Bonvicini Laura , Kendall Sally , Panza Costantino , Ferraroni Monica , Giorgi Rossi Paolo
Published: July 2022

Background

Parent self‐efficacy (PSE), parents' confidence in their ability to successfully raise their children, has proved to be a powerful direct predictor of specific positive parenting practices. The aim of this study was to validate the Italian version of the Tool to Measure Parenting Self‐Efficacy (TOPSE) using data from the questionnaires previously completed in a controlled before–after study conducted in 2015 to evaluate a newsletter programme to help improve parenting. Mothers and fathers of newborns were asked to complete the TOPSE at the child's birth (t0), at 6 months (t1) and at 12 months (t2): 265 TOPSE questionnaires were collected at t0 (43%), 158 at t1 (26%) and 188 at t2 (31%).

Methods

We measured internal reliability using Cronbach's alpha for each of the eight domains of the TOPSE. The intracluster correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to evaluate the external reliability only for parents with more than one child. Responsiveness was measured by testing the ability of the questionnaire to detect differences between groups and times that we expected to be measurable, based on consolidated findings in the literature. Mean scores of PSE improved from t0 to t2 (Hypothesis 1), PSE was lower at baseline for first‐time parents than for those with multiple children (Hypothesis 2) and the improvement from t0 to t2 was stronger for first‐time parents than for parents with multiple children (Hypothesis 3).

Results and Conclusion

Based on our sample of questionnaires, the Italian version of the TOPSE was reliable for almost all of the domains except for Emotion, Self‐acceptance and Learning, which could be refined by re‐framing or dropping one item. External reliability was moderate, bearing in mind that the questionnaire was repeated at different times over 12 months, during which parents normally change. Responsiveness was good, especially for the Emotion and Empathy domains.
Reciprocal links between marijuana use and school adjustment in Black and White rural adolescents
Authors: May Emily M. , Witherspoon Dawn P.
Published: July 2022

Although research has established that school adjustment is associated with marijuana use (MU) in adolescence, few studies have tested these associations bidirectionally. Using random intercepts cross‐lagged panel modeling, this study examined reciprocal associations between MU and school adjustment across 8th to 10th grade, including the transition to high school. Participants included 5470 rural adolescents (59% White, 41% Black) aged 12–17 years in 2002–2005. School adjustment factors predicted subsequent MU (i.e., higher self‐reported grades were protective for Black and White youth; valuing education was protective for Black youth; school behavior problems predicted increased MU across the transition to high school for White youth). MU had several adverse effects on school adjustment, particularly during the transition to high school.
Bone preservation or augmentation simultaneous with or prior to dental implant placement: A systematic review of outcomes and outcome measures used in clinical trials in the last 10 years
Authors: Shi Jun‐Yu , Montero Eduardo , Wu Xin‐Yu , Palombo David , Wei Shi‐Min , Sanz‐Sánchez Ignacio
Published: July 2022

Aim

To evaluate outcome measures and methods of assessment in clinical studies on bone augmentation/preservation procedures for the placement of dental implants.

Materials and Methods

A systematic search was performed on three databases from January 2011 to April 2021 to identify clinical studies reporting on any type of bone augmentation/preservation procedure. The outcomes that have been used to assess efficacy or performance in each study were registered and assigned to different domains (group of outcomes). The review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta‐Analyses statement.

Results

Seven‐hundred and eighty‐three publications were included. Only 81.8% of the papers had a clear definition of their primary outcome. The rate of complications (59.3%), implant survival (58.2%), 3D radiographic bone gain/change (30%), marginal bone level (MBL; 29%), and histological outcomes (25.5%) were the most frequently reported outcome domains. The most commonly used primary outcome was 3D radiographic bone gain/change (25.8%), followed by implant survival (13.0%). Patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) were reported in 15.7% of studies. Differences in the reported outcomes were observed among different types of bone preservation/augmentation interventions (i.e., alveolar ridge preservation, immediate implants, horizontal and/or vertical ridge augmentation, and sinus floor augmentation).

Conclusion

Within the past decade, great heterogeneity was observed among the outcomes considered in studies evaluating bone preservation/augmentation procedures. Three‐dimensional radiographic bone gain/change was the most routinely reported main outcome variable, while PROMs were rarely reported.
Alveolar ridge preservation in extraction sockets of periodontally compromised teeth: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Atieh Momen A. , Alnaqbi Maitha , Abdunabi Farida , Lin Lifeng , Alsabeeha Nabeel H. M.
Published: July 2022

Objectives

Alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) procedures can limit bone changes following tooth extraction. However, the role of ARP in periodontally compromised socket lacks strong scientific evidence. The aim of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to evaluate the outcomes of ARP following extraction of periodontally compromised teeth in comparison with extraction alone in terms of hard tissue changes, need for additional augmentation at the time of implant placement, and patient‐reported outcomes.

Material and Methods

Electronic databases were searched to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared ARP in periodontally compromised sockets with spontaneous socket healing. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration's risk of bias tool.

Results

Five studies with 134 extraction sockets in 126 participants were included. Of these, ARP was performed in 77 sites, while the remaining sites were intentionally left to heal without any ARP treatment. The follow‐up time varied between 6 and 12 months. Overall meta‐analysis showed significant differences in changes in ridge height (mean difference (MD) −0.95; 95% confidence interval (CI) −1.43 to −0.47; p = .0001) and bone volume (MD −38.70; 95% CI −52.17 to −25.24; p < .0001) in favor of ARP. The use of ARP following extraction of periodontally compromised tooth was also associated with significantly less need for additional bone grafting at the time of implant placement.

Conclusions

Within the limitation of this review, ARP following extraction of periodontally compromised teeth may have short‐term positive effects on alveolar ridge height and bone volume and minimize the need for additional augmentation procedures. However, the evidence is of very low to low certainty.
Cross‐border and domestic minority acquisitions and financial constraints: Reaping big benefits from small shareholders
Authors: Macoris Lucas S. , Kabbach‐de‐Castro Luiz Ricardo , Kalatzis Aquiles E.G. , Boehe Dirk M.
Published: July 2022

Research Question/Issue

Do the motivations of cross‐border minority acquisitions differ from those of domestic minority acquisitions? We examine and compare the underlying motivations for and consequences of domestic and cross‐border minority acquisitions by analyzing data from transactions that took place across 31 countries over a 13‐year period.

Research Findings/Insights

Using a sample of 11,926 domestic and cross‐border minority acquisitions, we show that the interplay of financing and country‐level governance motives is the main driver of such deals in both settings. We find that financially constrained firms are more likely to engage in both domestic and cross‐border minority acquisitions, even in the face of higher information asymmetry and transaction costs that international transactions entail. In the wake of either domestic or cross‐border deals, financially constrained firms' long‐term debt increases; their short‐term debt, cash holdings, and equity decrease. The greater likelihood of minority acquisitions of financially constrained firms is explained by the degree of corporate governance institutions in the country in which the targeted firm is based and by differences in levels of creditor and shareholder protections between the home countries of the targeted and acquiring firms involved. Our results remain robust after controlling for alternative explanations such as the contracting motive, the gravity model of foreign transactions, economic development levels, and differences in tax and exchange rates.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

Our results extend prior literature on mergers and acquisitions that have focused solely on control transfers or domestic deals. We provide empirical evidence for the importance of jointly considering financing and governance motivations in seeking to explain domestic and cross‐border minority acquisitions and their consequences in alleviating financial constraints. We provide new evidence on how firm‐ and country‐level characteristics interact to affect minority acquisitions.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

Our results offer valuable insights for business policy by highlighting how firms can circumvent financial constraints through partial integration, especially in cross‐border settings. The results also offer evidence of beneficial ex post outcomes for targeted firms' leverage and liquidity. In terms of public policy, the results show that minority shareholder protections improve the equity market and provide a positive externality to the debt market through a certification effect.
Effects of a multi‐functional adjuvant on efficacy of methoxyfenozide (SC24%) and spinosad (SC24%) to control the European grapevine moth, Lobesia botrana
Authors: Mosallanejad Hadi , Broomand Asghar
Published: July 2022

The study was undertaken to evaluate the effects of a multi‐functional adjuvant on the field efficacy of two insecticides, methoxyfenozide (SC24%) and spinosad (SC24%), against Lobesia botrana in Iran. The efficacy was evaluated from the experimental plots at 3, 7, 14 and 21 days after treatment. Our results indicated that the adjuvant was able to enhance the efficacy of both methoxyfenozide and spinosad against L. botrana at each interval. The increased efficacy was due to the lower values of surface tension and to the improved contact angle parameters of the spray solutions. By adding adjuvant in the spraying liquid, it was possible to have a control efficiency very similar to the treatment using the recommended rates, even when the application rate was reduced by 20%. Our results underline the importance of adjuvants in improving the field efficacy of insecticides against L. botrana.
Advanced general particle dynamics with nonlocal foundation for fracture analysis
Authors: Zhou Xiao‐Ping , Yao Wu‐Wen , Berto Filippo
Published: July 2022

The general particle dynamics (GPD), which is based on the kernel approximation method and Navier–Stokes equation, was developed from smoothed‐particle hydrodynamics to simulate the fracture behaviors by using the collective of damage variable to describe the damage evolution behaviors. In this paper, an advanced GPD with a nonlocal foundation is proposed for better description of the solid mechanics. The nonlocal vector calculus and microscopic constitutive model are employed to derive the governing equations in the proposed theory. The novel GPD with a nonlocal core is a generalization, which permits the inclusion of the microscopic constitutive model and the multi‐scale modeling compared with the previous GPD. To accomplish this generalization, the relationship between GPD and the previous kernel‐based theory is established. The novel GPD is superior in the fracture problems and multi‐scale modeling. Some numerical experiments are launched to verify the ability of the novel GPD.
Predicting the antecedents of consumers' intention toward purchase of mutual funds: A hybrid PLS‐SEM‐neural network approach
Authors: Mishra Anand Kumar , Bansal Rohit , Maurya Prince Kumar , Kar Sanjay Kumar , Bakshi Palvinder Kaur
Published: July 2022

The current study intends to identify the behavioural antecedents of investors' attitude and investment intention toward mutual funds using a robust SEM‐ANN approach. It focuses on novel factors in the purview of the COVID‐19 pandemic, increasing digitalization and social media usage. The research outcome indicates that attitude (ATB), awareness (AW) and investment decision involvement (IDI) have a significant positive relation with investment intention (BI). In contrast, perceived barrier (PBR) negatively relates to investment intention. Herd behaviour (HB) and social media influence (SMI) do not influence investment intention toward mutual funds. Moreover, all the tested predictors share direct relation with the attitude toward mutual fund investment, barring perceived risk (PR), which has an inverse relationship. As per the outcome of ANN sensitivity analysis, attitude is the most crucial determinant of investment intention. It is followed by awareness (AW), perceived barriers (PBR) and investment decision involvement (IDI). Among the significant determinants of attitude, self‐efficacy (SE) is the most important determinant, followed by perceived usefulness (PU), perceived emergency (PEMER), subjective norms (SN) and perceived risk (PR).
Marine bacteria and omic approaches: A novel and potential repository for bioremediation assessment
Authors: Hassan Shahnawaz , Sabreena  , Khurshid Zulaykha , Bhat Sartaj Ahmad , Kumar Vineet , Ameen Fuad , Ganai Bashir Ahmad
Published: July 2022

Marine environments accommodating diverse assortments of life constitute a great pool of differentiated natural resources. The cumulative need to remedy unpropitious effects of anthropogenic activities on estuaries and coastal marine ecosystems has propelled the development of effective bioremediation strategies. Marine bacteria producing biosurfactants are promising agents for bio-remediating oil pollution in marine environments, making them prospective candidates for enhancing oil recovery. Molecular omics technologies are considered an emerging field of research in ecological and diversity assessment owing to their utility in environmental surveillance and bioremediation of polluted sites. A thorough literature review was undertaken to understand the applicability of different omic techniques used for bioremediation assessment using marine bacteria. This review further establishes that for bioremediation of environmental pollutants (i.e. heavy metals, hydrocarbons, xenobiotic and numerous recalcitrant compounds), organisms isolated from marine environments can be better used for their removal. The literature survey shows that omics approaches can provide exemplary knowledge about microbial communities and their role in the bioremediation of environmental pollutants. This review centres on applications of marine bacteria in enhanced bioremediation, using the omics approaches that can be a vital biological contrivance in environmental monitoring to tackle environmental degradation. The paper aims to identify the gaps in investigations involving marine bacteria to help researchers, ecologists and decision-makers to develop a holistic understanding regarding their utility in bioremediation assessment.
Elucidating strategies used by clinical nurse leaders to facilitate fundamental care delivery: A qualitative study
Authors: Mudd Alexandra , Feo Rebecca , McCloud Christine , Conroy Tiffany
Published: July 2022

Aim

To investigate the strategies used by nurse leaders to facilitate fundamental care delivery in their clinical area.

Design

An interpretative qualitative design study reported in line with the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ).

Methods

Twenty‐four self‐identified nurse leaders from across Australia were interviewed between November 2020 and April 2021 to discuss their strategies for facilitating fundamental care. Data was analysed using inductive thematic analysis.

Results

Nurse leaders' experience of facilitating fundamental care produced two major themes, delivery of fundamental care (comprising three sub‐themes: valuing fundamental care, understanding and developing staff capacity and supportive relationships), and monitoring of fundamental care (including three sub‐themes: visibility in the clinical area, embedding fundamental care in the practice setting and specific direct actions).

Conclusion

Facilitating fundamental care delivery is complex. This study highlighted the importance of nurse leaders' individual characteristics, and nurse leaders' ability to establish and maintain relationships alongside the role of informal and formal monitoring of fundamental care delivery.

Impact

Findings from this study build on existing research into fundamental care and contribute to our understanding of the role, characteristics and actions of nurse leaders to facilitate fundamental care. The results demonstrate the complexity and intricacy of nursing leadership to facilitate fundamental care, and that a dynamic ‘thinking and linking’ approach is required. The results show individualized practice which may create challenges for new nurse leaders seeking guidance, and for monitoring nurse leader activity. Further research is advocated to explore insights and tools to optimize nurse leaders' endeavours in facilitating fundamental care.

Patient or Public Contribution

This study was designed using insights generated from patient and public involvement in nursing leadership and fundamental care.
Pregnancy experience in the setting of cystic fibrosis: A systematic review and thematic synthesis
Authors: Milo Francesco , Tabarini Paola
Published: July 2022

Aims

To synthesize qualitative studies of subjective experience of pregnancy in people with cystic fibrosis.

Design

Thematic synthesis of qualitative studies.

Data sources

We searched PUBMED, CINAHL, EMBASE. PsicINFO and Social Sciences Citation Index for qualitative studies published in English, which reported on pregnancy in people with cystic fibrosis. Searches were carried out in March 2021, updated in June 2022.

Review methods

Studies that met the inclusion criteria were appraised for quality using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) for qualitative research. Data were extracted from the studies, analyse and synthesise using thematic synthesis approach.

Results

Thirteen studies were included in the review and ‘Walking on a wire’ framework was conceptualized. We found three analytical themes: (1) desire for information related to pregnancy in cystic fibrosis, (2) factors at play in decision‐making related to pregnancy for people with cystic fibrosis and (3) pregnancy experience and eight descriptive themes: (1) information topics, (2) CF healthcare team/PwCF as a provider of reproductive health information, (3) information timing, (4) barriers to information delivery, (5) barriers to decision‐making and stresses relating to the process of trying to conceive, (6) environmental factors, (7) coping with challenges, and (8) moving towards parenthood.

Conclusion

For people with cystic fibrosis, pregnancy is a complex pathway: the amount of knowledge about cystic fibrosis and sexual and reproductive health, barriers to pregnancy and environmental factors provides the background to decision‐making. Moreover, coping with pregnancy is a challenging experience, where they have to mediate between the physical and emotional implications of planning a pregnancy and the limitations imposed by the chronic health conditions.

Impact

Understanding the psychological experiences of people with cystic fibrosis (PwCF) will improve future research and practice. Education about sexual and reproductive health and psychosocial care programmes are necessary to help PwCF deal with the challenges related to pregnancy. Hospitals should enhance the development of specific programmes to promote the well‐being of individuals with CF who are planning a pregnancy.
Comparative efficacy and safety of fimasartan in patients with hypertension: A network meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Seo Suk Min , Ihm Sang Hyun , Yi Jeong‐Eun , Jeong Seung Hee , Kim Bong‐Seog
Published: July 2022

Hypertension is a prevalent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Angiotensin II receptor blockers are widely prescribed to patients with hypertension, while new drugs are continuously developed. However, data on comparative efficacy and safety of novel agents, such as fimasartan, are scarce. Here, we aimed to collect clinical evidence on different angiotensin II receptor blockers using a network meta‐analysis. Randomized controlled trials whose follow‐up time is within 12 weeks were identified from eight databases via a systematic literature review. Of the 7909 possibly relevant studies, 61 studies with 14,249 adult patients were included in the analysis. These studies were further subjected to quality appraisal using Cochran's Risk of Bias, and sitting systolic blood pressure was considered the primary endpoint. A Bayesian random effect generalized linear model was used for the network meta‐analysis, and the treatment rank probability was determined. Olmesartan (standardized mean difference ‐0.987 [‐1.29, ‐0.729]) and fimasartan (standardized mean difference ‐0.966 [‐1.21, ‐0.745]) showed the highest rank probabilities (37% and 35%) in the 4‐week group, considering the primary endpoint. Furthermore, the odds ratio of adverse events for all agents did not differ significantly from that of the placebo. The treatment rank of angiotensin II receptor blockers varied depending on the outcome type and follow‐up period considerably. Fimasartan rapidly lowered blood pressure in 4 weeks, which was further maintained until 12 weeks, indicating its competent efficacy and tolerability. Our findings may help medical practitioners and patients to select the best angiotensin II receptor blocker against hypertension.
The reality of treatment for hyperuricemia and gout in Japan: A historical cohort study using health insurance claims data
Authors: Akari Seigo , Nakamura Takashi , Furusawa Kenichi , Miyazaki Yuichi , Kario Kazuomi
Published: July 2022

Hyperuricemia causes gout and has also been associated with metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease. Uric acid‐lowering drugs (ULDs) are used to reduce uric acid levels for the treatment of hyperuricemia and gout. However, there is a lack of robust and real‐world data on the history and treatment of patients with newly diagnosed hyperuricemia or gout in Japan. This retrospective, longitudinal, historical cohort study determined the characteristics of patients with hyperuricemia and/or gout, and prescription of, and adherence to, ULDs using data from the JMDC Claims Database. The primary evaluation population included 64 677 patients with newly diagnosed hyperuricemia and/or gout. Of these, only 26 501 (41.0%) had a prescription for ULDs at diagnosis. Even when ULDs were prescribed, the persistence rate of prescriptions declined over time, with a 54.4% persistence rate for ULDs at 12 months after the index diagnosis. In subgroups of patients with or without hypertension and diabetes, the rate of ULD prescription continuation was significantly higher in those with comorbidities than in those without (76.8% vs. 42.6% in those with vs. without hypertension, and 78.7% vs. 52.2% in those with vs. without diabetes). These finding suggest that therapeutic interventions to lower serum uric acid levels are under‐utilized for patients with newly diagnosed hyperuricemia and/or gout in Japan.
Specific features of ex‐obese patients significantly influence the functional cell properties of adipose‐derived stromal cells
Authors: Schmitz Deborah , Robering Jan W. , Weisbach Volker , Arkudas Andreas , Ludolph Ingo , Horch Raymund E. , Boos Anja M. , Kengelbach‐Weigand Annika
Published: July 2022

Adipose‐derived stromal cells (ADSC) are increasingly used in clinical applications due to their regenerative capabilities. However, ADSC therapies show variable results. This study analysed the effects of specific factors of ex‐obese patients on ADSC functions. ADSC were harvested from abdominal tissues (N = 20) after massive weight loss. Patients were grouped according to age, sex, current and maximum body mass index (BMI), BMI difference, weight loss method, smoking and infection at the surgical site. ADSC surface markers, viability, migration, transmigration, sprouting, differentiation potential, cytokine secretion, telomere length and mtDNA copy number were analysed. All ADSC expressed CD73, CD90, CD105, while functional properties differed significantly among patients. A high BMI difference due to massive weight loss was negatively correlated with ADSC proliferation, migration and transmigration, while age, sex or weight loss method had a smaller effect. ADSC from female and younger donors and individuals after weight loss by increase of exercise and diet change had a higher activity. Telomere length, mtDNA copy number, differentiation potential and the secretome did not correlate with patient factors or cell function. Therefore, we suggest that factors such as age, sex, increase of exercise and especially weight loss should be considered for patient selection and planning of regenerative therapies.
Anterior implant restorations with a convex emergence profile increase the frequency of recession: 12‐month results of a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Siegenthaler Marina , Strauss Franz J. , Gamper Felix , Hämmerle Christoph H. F. , Jung Ronald E. , Thoma Daniel S.
Published: July 2022

Aim

To test whether the emergence profile (CONVEX or CONCAVE) of implant‐supported crowns influences the mucosal margin stability up to 12 months after insertion of the final restoration.

Materials and Methods

Forty‐seven patients with a single implant in the anterior region were randomly allocated to one of three groups: (1) CONVEX (n = 15), implant provisional and an implant‐supported crown both with a convex profile; (2) CONCAVE (n = 16), implant provisional and an implant‐supported crown both with a concave profile; (3) CONTROL (n = 16), no provisional (healing abutment only) and an implant‐supported crown. All patients were recalled at baseline, 6, and 12 months. The stability of mucosal margin along with clinical, aesthetic, and profilometric outcomes as well as time and costs were evaluated. To predict the presence of recession, multivariable logistic regressions were performed and linear models using generalized estimation equations were conducted for the different outcomes.

Results

Forty‐four patients were available at 12 months post‐loading. The frequency of mucosal recession amounted to 64.3% in group CONVEX, 14.3% in group CONCAVE, and 31.4% in group CONTROL. Regression models revealed that a CONVEX profile was significantly associated with the presence of recessions (odds ratio: 12.6, 95% confidence interval: 1.82–88.48, p = .01) compared with the CONCAVE profile. Pink aesthetic scores amounted to 5.9 in group CONVEX, 6.2 in group CONCAVE, and 5.4 in group CONTROL, with no significant differences between the groups (p = .735). Groups CONVEX and CONCAVE increased the appointments and costs compared with the CONTROL group.

Conclusions

The use of implant‐supported provisionals with a CONCAVE emergence profile results in a greater stability of the mucosal margin compared with a CONVEX profile up to 12 months of loading. This is accompanied, however, by increased time and costs compared with the absence of a provisional and may not necessarily enhance the aesthetic outcomes. Trial registration: German Clinical Trials Register; DRKS00009420.