bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Endometriosis‐Related Genetic Factors and Their Role in Preterm Birth: A Two‐Sample Mendelian Randomisation Study
Authors: Flatley Christopher , Kristjansson Dana , Ytterberg Karin , Juodakis Julius , Sole‐Navais Pol , Jacobsson Bo 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTObjectiveEndometriosis affects 10% of women worldwide and is linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth. Recent epidemiological and genetic studies indicate that endometriosis may influence gestational duration and the likelihood of preterm birth. This study aimed to estimate the direct genetic causal effects of endometriosis on gestational duration and preterm birth using Mendelian randomisation (MR) analysis, leveraging genetic data from recent genome‐wide association studies (GWASs).DesignA two‐sample MR study.SettingSummary statistics from published GWASs on European ancestry populations for endometriosis and gestational duration.Population or SampleInstrumental variables for endometriosis were derived from a meta‐analysis comprising 60 674 endometriosis cases and 701 926 controls.MethodsGenetic correlations and heritability estimates were calculated using linkage disequilibrium score regression. Two‐sample MR with multiplicative random‐effects inverse variance weighting assessed the primary objectives, supplemented by sensitivity analyses to validate MR assumptions.Main Outcome MeasuresPrimary outcomes were gestational duration and preterm birth, sourced from the latest GWAS data.ResultsLD score regression revealed no genetic correlation between endometriosis and either gestational duration or preterm birth. MR analysis showed no causal association between endometriosis and maternal effects on offspring gestational duration (β = 0.40, 95% CI: −0.39 to 1.19, p = 0.32) or preterm birth (OR = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.82–1.06, p = 0.36). Sensitivity analyses indicated pleiotropy but no violations of MR assumptions. Of the four loci overlapping between the gestational duration and endometriosis GWASs, three (EBF1, WNT4, and GDAP1) were identified as outliers using MR‐Presso.ConclusionsContrary to observational studies, MR analyses found no direct causal link between endometriosis and gestational duration or preterm birth. Overlaps in genomic regions suggest that the relationship may be mediated through different biological pathways.
The ecology of business environments and consequences for crime
Authors: Hipp John R. , Hodgen Cheyenne 
Published: December 2024

AbstractResearch has typically focused on how certain types of business establishments are associated with the location of crime on street blocks. Studies in this genre, however, often have not accounted for the general business context of the block on which a business is located. This study uses a large sample of blocks in Southern California to test whether the context of businesses matters. We assess whether a nonlinear relationship exists between the total businesses on a block and crime, whether differences exist based on broad categories of businesses—consumer‐facing businesses, blue‐collar businesses, and white‐collar businesses—and whether the mixing of businesses on a block impacts crime. The study finds strong evidence that blocks with more business mixing have higher levels of crime. A 1 standard deviation increase in business mixing is associated with 35%–95% more crime. The relationship between business mixing and crime is moderated by the size of the population on the block. Evidence also shows differences in relationships with crime between consumer‐facing and white‐ or blue‐collar businesses. Only modest evidence shows that specific business types are related to crime levels after accounting for this general business context.
Person‐Organization (Mis)fit: The Experience of Furlough as Career Shock
Authors: Simosi Maria , Conway Neil 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTThis study examines employees' experience of being furloughed as a career shock drawing on person‐organization (P–O) fit theory. We focus on the UK's Covid‐19 furlough scheme and the experiences of 23 employees from different sectors following the scheme's termination. Findings from qualitative interviews support the value of misfit to understanding career shocks. Furloughed employees perceived change to their person‐organization fit, and more specifically misfit relating to personal needs (for security, growth and support) versus supplies, and demands (increased responsibilities, lack of retraining upon resuming work) versus skills, where such misfit was attributed to furlough being a career shock and triggering career‐related thoughts and behaviors. Organizational communication and topping‐up furloughed workers' lost monthly income buffered the extent furlough resulted in misfit. Tolerance threshold and perceived employability were found to explain the likelihood of career transitions for furloughed workers reporting misfit. Our findings contribute to the emerging career shocks literature by identifying P–O misfit as a mechanism explaining career transitions.
Associations of smoke‐free policies in multi‐unit housing with smoking behavior and second‐hand smoke exposure: A systematic review
Authors: Garritsen Heike H. , Khan Farzana , Rozema Andrea D. , Navas‐Acien Ana , Hernández Diana 
Published: December 2024

AbstractBackground and aimAlthough considerable progress has been made regarding the implementation of smoke‐free policies (SFPs), many people continue to be exposed to second‐hand smoke (SHS) in the home environment. The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review on the association of SFPs in multi‐unit housing (MUH) with smoking behavior and SHS exposure.MethodsIn August 2022, we searched five online databases: PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, PsycINFO and CENTRAL. Keywords included terms for SFPs, MUH, smoking behavior and exposure to SHS. We searched for studies that focused on regular combustible cigarettes. Due to the high heterogeneity in methodology and outcomes of the included studies, a meta‐analysis was not performed.ResultsOur search yielded 4750 articles. All of them were screened (24 based on full‐text), and 17 met the inclusion criteria. All studies were published between 2001 and 2022. Most studies were conducted in the United States (n = 16) and used a cross‐sectional design (n = 7) or a longitudinal design (n = 7). Seven studies evaluated smoking behavior. Five of them reported that SFPs in MUH were statistically significantly associated with decreases in either current smoking, smoking quantity, smoking frequency or smoking cessation. Fourteen studies evaluated exposure to SHS. Ten reported that SFPs in MUH were statistically significantly associated with decreases in self‐reported exposure to SHS, airborne nicotine levels and particulate matter levels.ConclusionsSmoke‐free policies in multi‐unit housing appear to be associated with reduced smoking behavior and second‐hand smoke exposure. Successful implementation depends on accessible cessation support and effective enforcement.
Operative caseload of general surgeons working in a rural hospital in Central Australia
Authors: Kaur Harleen , Arayne Aisha Abdulmoeed , Paredes Steven , Barbaro Antonio , Elgindy Yara , Tran Steven , Senaratne Jayantha 
Published: December 2024

AbstractBackgroundThere is limited published data on the caseload of general surgeons in Central Australia. The region has a significant Indigenous population, who often face higher rates of chronic diseases and require more frequent surgical interventions compared to non‐Indigenous individuals. This study aims to outline the workload of surgeons at Alice Springs Hospital to determine the necessary skill set and surgical education for future surgeons.MethodsA retrospective review of all general surgery operative cases performed in Central Australia, Alice Springs Hospital was conducted between January 2012 and December 2021. The RACS Morbidity Audit and Logbook Tool was used to classify surgical procedures along with Medicare Benefits Schedule item numbers. Tables were created to present the annual and specialty‐specific data on the types and volumes of procedures.ResultsFrom January 2012 to December 2021, 35 318 cases were performed, with 92.5% being general surgery, 3% plastics and reconstructive surgery and 2.8% vascular procedures. Indigenous patients received a higher proportion of procedures (50–60%) compared to non‐Indigenous patients (30–50%). Common procedures included incision and drainage of abscesses and debridement of wounds, while trends across specialties showed a decline in ENT and plastic surgeries, stable thoracic and vascular cases, and increased numbers of urology operations.ConclusionGeneral surgeons in rural centres must possess a wide range of skills and be capable of performing a variety of procedures. Trainees should be encouraged to consider practicing in rural areas, and those interested should account for the specific needs of the communities they plan to serve.
Cancer‐associated fibroblast‐derived MMP11 promotes tumor progression in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Wang Zhuoyin , Guo Xu , Li Xinming , Wang Jing , Zhang Nengwei , Amin Buhe , Xu Guangzhong , Zhu Bin 
Published: December 2024

AbstractMatrix metalloproteinase 11 (MMP11), a zinc‐dependent endopeptidase involved in extracellular matrix degradation and remodeling, has been identified as a tumor promoter in multiple cancer types. However, its expression pattern and role in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remain unclear. In this study, elevated MMP11 expression was identified in PDAC tissues and was associated with diminished survival. Integrated single‐cell RNA sequencing and co‐immunofluorescence staining revealed that MMP11 was predominantly expressed in cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs). Mechanistically, cancer cell‐derived TGF‐β1 mediated CAF activation via the pSmad2/3 pathway and accompanied by MMP11 production. Additionally, MMP11 knockdown in CAFs impaired the proliferative and invasive abilities of AsPC‐1 and BxPC‐3 cells in vitro; which could be rescued by adding recombinant MMP11. Similarly, co‐injection of AsPC‐1 cells with MMP11‐knockdown CAFs into nude mice significantly suppressed tumor growth and liver metastasis compared with tumors bearing unmodified CAFs. Furthermore, we confirmed that CAF‐derived MMP11 may drive the epithelial–mesenchymal transition process of PDAC cells to promote tumor invasion via the PI3K/AKT pathway rather than extracellular matrix remodeling. Collectively, we uncovered a crosstalk between cancer cells and CAFs mediated by TGF‐β1 and MMP11 that drives the progression of PDAC.
Combination of rs‐fMRI, QSM, and ASL Reveals the Cerebral Neurovascular Coupling Dysfunction Is Associated With Cognitive Decline in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Song Lijun , Wang Hao , Yang Wenbo , Li Mingan , Xu Boyan , Li Min , Ding Heyu , Lv Han , Zhao Pengfei , Yang Zhenghan , Liu Wenhu , Wang Zhen‐chang , Liu Xu 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundNeurovascular coupling (NVC) reflects the close connection between neural activity and cerebral blood flow (CBF) responses, providing new insights to explore the neuropathological mechanisms of various diseases. Non‐dialysis patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) exhibit cognitive decline, but the underlying pathological mechanisms are unclear.MethodsThe prospective study involved 53 patients with stage 1–3a CKD (CKD1–3a), 78 patients with stage 3b–5 CKD (CKD3b–5), and 52 healthy controls (HC). Our investigation involved voxel‐based assessments of both global and regional BOLD signal characteristics. Additionally, we explored the correlations between neuroimaging indices, Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scores, and clinical laboratory findings.ResultsCompared to HC, the CKD3b–5 and CKD1–3a groups exhibited lower ALLF and ReHo in the default mode network (DMN), higher CBF in bilateral hippocampus (HIP), higher susceptibility values in bilateral caudate nucleus (CAU) and putamen (PUT), and lower susceptibility values in bilateral HIP. At the global level, the coupling coefficients were lower in CKD1–3a and CKD3b–5 groups than in HC. At the ROI level, the CBF‐ALFF and CBF‐ReHo coupling in HIP and basal ganglia regions were lower in CKD3b–5 groups than in the CKD1–3a group. Most importantly, susceptibility‐ALFF in ANG.R may mediate the effects of phosphorus on cognitive decompensation in patients with CKD1‐3a.ConclusionsNon‐dialysis patients with CKD exhibit abnormal NCV, which is associated with the cognitive decline. Specifically, the susceptibility‐ALFF may serve as a valuable biomarker for early assessment of cognitive decline in CKD, offering insights into the pathogenesis of cognitive decline in CKD.
Does giving tax debtors a break improve compliance and income? Evidence from quasi‐random assignment of IRS Revenue Officers
Authors: Boning William C. , Slemrod Joel , Stuart Ellen , Turk Alex 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThis paper uses the quasi‐random assignment of IRS Revenue Officers to tax debtors' cases as an instrumental variable to identify the causal effects of suspending debt collection on tax compliance and future income. In contrast to uninstrumented estimates, we find no statistically significant evidence that putting off attempts to collect debt reduces compliance with future tax obligations or future reported income. Among marginal hardship cases, pausing collection instead increases future income, specifically wage earnings by the taxpayer's spouse. In addition, we address concerns about potential non‐random assignment of Revenue Officers.
The quest for efficiency in higher education in England: lessons learned for developed economies
Authors: Johnes Jill , Perez‐Esparrells Carmen 
Published: December 2024

AbstractOver recent decades, universities in England have transitioned from providing higher education (HE) for the elite to HE for the masses. Funding mechanisms have changed, cost‐sharing has shifted from public to private sources, and efficiency and productivity have been emphasized. Three excellence frameworks relating to research, teaching, and knowledge exchange have been introduced to assess performance. In this paper, we explore the systems of performance measurement and funding implemented in English HE and critically appraise these against the recommendations from the relevant literature. We conclude that these frameworks, by separately assessing performance in the three missions, inadequately account for synergies between activities, thereby ignoring the civic nature of universities and possibilities for economies of scale and scope. We conclude by highlighting some emerging areas for future research. While the focus of the paper is English HE, the themes and findings are relevant to all HE sectors around the world.
“Hello… I'm Here!” A Co‐Productive Qualitative Study Involving Older People With Vision Impairment and Their Experiences of Acute Hospital Care
Authors: Wilson Fiona , Arblaster Gemma , Geraghty Holly , Graveling Sydney , Hussain Zahra , Jackson Nicola , Qamar Zaina , Rook Elliot , Starsong Elena 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTAimTo understand the experience and care needs of older people living with vision impairment in the acute hospital setting.DesignA qualitative study using co‐productive user‐based design.MethodsSeven older people living with vision impairment and six healthcare students collaborated in a series of six researcher facilitated co‐productive workshops. Recorded data were analysed using thematic analysis.ResultsThe needs of older people with vision impairment are often overlooked in the acute hospital setting. Four themes identified (1) Trauma and Loss; (2) Vulnerability and Feeling Invisible; (3) Being disabled, and (4) Feeling safe. Trauma associated with vision loss was acute, particularly if acquired during the hospital admission. The experience of vision impairment coupled with illness served to heighten feelings of vulnerability and needs were often overlooked creating a sense of invisibility. The hospital environment was experienced as disabling, and care needs were not always acknowledged. Supportive communications and access to own audio/supportive devices were vital in supporting a sense of safety.ConclusionsOur study is significant in highlighting the increasing global importance of vision aware care in the context of an ageing population. The study is also unique in illustrating the potential for inclusive and creative co‐productive approaches which engage both older people with sight loss and healthcare students to promote vision aware practice. Supporting vision impaired older people through diagnosis, care and discharge is vital for promoting equitable positive health outcomes and quality of life.Impact StatementWhat problem did the study address? Despite a high prevalence of sight loss within the older patient population, it is unclear how the acute hospital setting supports people living with vision impairment.What were the main findings? The hospital environment and lack of vision aware care can impact negatively on the care experience resulting in poorer physical and psychosocial wellbeing.Where and whom will the research have an impact? This work will inform the development of vision aware care educational resources, policy, and practice.Implications for the Profession and/or Patient CareVision aware care is vital for supporting quality of life and health outcomes for all older people.Reporting MethodEQUATOR guidelines have been adhered to using the COREQ checklist.Patient or Public ContributionThe charitable organisation Sheffield Royal Society of Blind (SRSB) was involved in the planning of the research to ensure that volunteer participants could take part and the conduct of the research was inclusive to their needs.
Using Legitimation Code Theory to Underpin the Development of Undergraduate Nursing Students' Breastfeeding Knowledge: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Bowdler Suzanne , Nielsen Wendy , Georgiou Helen , Meedya Shahla , Salamonson Yenna 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTAimTo explore how undergraduate nursing students develop knowledge during a breastfeeding module.DesignA qualitative study using a single case‐study approach.MethodsThis study was conducted in Australia over 2 years during the period between July 2021 and December 2022. Semi‐structured interviews and artefact collection were conducted with a purposive sample of undergraduate nurses (n = 10) who completed a paediatric elective subject that included a breastfeeding module. Thematic and content analysis were used. The specialisation dimension in Legitimation Code Theory (LCT) was used for the content analysis, and students' data was mapped on the specialisation plane.ResultsThis study reveals how participants developed knowledge by linking personal breastfeeding experiences to theoretical components within the nursing program. Using the LCT dimension of specialisation, this study provides new insights into how participants move through distinct quadrants of the specialisation plane. Learners tour between the knowledge, knower, and elite quadrants of the plane as they integrate their knowledge. The research maps the journey towards becoming the ‘right kind of knower’ and reveals how personal experience and theoretical knowledge intersect to create disciplinary expertise. This study advances the LCT dimension of specialisation by illustrating the fluid, non‐linear nature of knowledge acquisition and knower development.ConclusionsThis study highlights the value of integrating personal experiences into nursing education, demonstrating how students use these to build knowledge and professional identity. The findings emphasise the dynamic knowledge development process in preparing future healthcare professionals.Implications for the Profession and Patient CareIntegrating lived experiences and interprofessional education equips nurses to address complex health issues, leading to more effective, personalised care and better health outcomes for breastfeeding mothers and infants. This approach signals a transformative shift in nursing education.ImpactBy personalising and contextualising learning, fostering reflective practice, deepening disciplinary knowledge, and promoting a collaborative practice environment, this approach enriches nursing education.Reporting MethodThe consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ).Patient or Public ContributionNo patient or public contribution.
Long‐Term Outcomes of Ceramic Veneers Restorations: A Comprehensive Analysis of Clinical and Patient‐Reported Metrics
Authors: Panayong Thitiorn , Chengprapakorn Wareeratn , Limpuangthip Nareudee , Serichetaphongse Pravej 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTObjectivesThis study aimed to evaluate the clinical performance of ceramic veneers after 9–10 years, assess patient‐reported outcomes, and examine their associations.Materials and MethodsThirty patients with ceramic veneers aged 9–10 years were recalled for a clinical examination. Each participant completed a questionnaire on satisfaction and oral health‐related quality of life, specifically using the Oral Impact on Daily Performance (OIDP) scale. The chi‐square or Fisher exact test was used to assess the associations between tooth position and professional evaluations of veneer success and individual items. Consistency between professional evaluations of the veneers and patient‐reported outcomes was evaluated using Weight Kappa.ResultsA total of 30 patients with 233 veneers participated in the study. Clinical evaluations deemed 9.87% (n = 23) of veneers as successful, 79.40% (n = 185) as surviving with complications, and 10.73% (n = 25) as a failure. The most common complications were marginal adaptation, gingival inflammation, and marginal discoloration. The participants were most frequently dissatisfied with the function of the veneers, food impaction, and cleaning difficulties. The OIDP assessment indicated that problems on daily activities such as cleaning, eating, and sleeping were predominantly affected. There were significant consistencies between certain clinical performance attributes and patient‐reported outcomes.ConclusionsThe survival rate of ceramic veneers was 89.3% after 9–10 years of follow‐up. Among these, 79.4% had survived with complications such as material defects, secondary caries, and gingival problems. Given the discrepancies between patient‐reported outcomes and clinical evaluations, further investigations into patient perception are needed alongside traditional clinical assessments.Clinical SignificanceEducating patients about the potential complications associated with veneer restoration, especially specific to tooth location, is essential. Additionally, advising patients on proper oral hygiene practices is recommended to minimize the risk of gingival inflammation to enhance the longevity of the restoration.