bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Statistical foundations of person parameter estimation in the Thurstonian IRT model for forced‐choice and pairwise comparison designs
Authors: Yousfi Safir 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe statistical foundations of person parameter estimation for the multivariate Thurstonian item response theory (TIRT) model of pairwise comparison and forced‐choice (FC) ranking data are elaborated, and several misconceptions in IRT and TIRT are addressed. It is shown that directional information (i.e. multivariate information as defined by Reckase & Kinley, 1991; Applied Psychological Measurement, 15, 361) is not suited to quantify the precision of the estimates unless the Fisher information matrix is diagonal. The asymptotic covariance can be quantified by the inverse Fisher information matrix if the genuine likelihood is used and by the inverse Godambe information for independence likelihood estimation that results from ignoring within‐block dependencies of pairwise comparisons. Analytical expressions are provided for the genuine likelihood and the Fisher information matrix for a generalized TIRT model that comprises binary pairwise comparison and ranking designs, which enables maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) and Bayesian estimation (maximum a posteriori probability with normal and Jeffreys prior) of person parameters. The bias of the MLE is quantified, and methods of bias prevention and bias correction are introduced. The correct marginal likelihood of graded pairwise comparisons is provided that might be used for person parameter estimation based on the independence likelihood.
States of opportunity for youth aging out of foster care
Authors: Prettyman Alexa 
Published: November 2024

AbstractOver 20,000 youth age out of foster care each year in the United States facing various hardships. Research demonstrates that extended foster care beneficially impacts youth aging out of care; however, it is less clear which states assist these youth. This descriptive paper explores which states effectively assist foster youth aging out of care. I use the National Youth in Transition Database and a two‐step regression‐adjusted approach to determine state effectiveness across a variety of outcomes, including college enrollment, employment, disconnectedness, homelessness, incarceration, substance abuse, and parenthood. I find considerable variation in state effectiveness depending on the outcome.
Host plant phenology drives risky larval dispersal in an outbreaking insect defoliator
Authors: Bellemin‐Noël Bastien , Pureswaran Deepa S. , Despland Emma 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Dispersal away from natal sites allows individuals to find suitable foraging sites to complete their development and successfully reproduce. Drivers of risky dispersal behaviour in forest landscapes by young larvae of outbreaking defoliators are not well understood.
We assessed dispersal behaviour of young spruce budworm larvae in relation to spring budburst phenology of primary and secondary hosts, balsam fir and black spruce, respectively. We tested whether tree species and presence of suitable feeding sites influenced dispersal away from source branches and subsequent redistribution of insects.
Laboratory experiments showed that dispersal is an active behaviour during which larvae disperse away from source trees without open buds, regardless of species. Establishment on sink branches was highest when they possessed open buds and the source did not. In the field, larval dispersal was higher from black spruce than from balsam fir and larval establishment was more persistent on balsam fir.
The decision to disperse occurs before budburst of either host species. Larvae disperse preferentially away from black spruce whose old needles are too tough for larval mining, compared to balsam fir that can be mined for sustenance and refuge while larvae await budburst. While black spruce is a suitable host species after its buds expand, phenological defences drive larval dispersal away from this host plant.
These findings are the first to show how risky dispersal behaviour in larval Lepidoptera is facultative and is determined by local food availability.
Minimally invasive approaches for implant‐supported overdentures in the atrophied mandible
Authors: Bacher Helene , Kasaliyska Monika , Arnold Christin , Hey Jeremias , Schweyen Ramona 
Published: November 2024

ObjectivesThe study compares three minimally invasive approaches for the retention of implant supported mandibular complete dentures, particularly focusing on patient satisfaction.BackgroundThe McGill Consensus Statement recommends restoration of the edentulous mandible with an overdenture retained on two implants. Alternatively, less invasive treatment concepts with shorter treatment times have been developed for critical cases.Material and MethodsThirty‐nine patients (with a total of 78 implants) with advanced mandibular bone atrophy were randomly assigned to three groups: “single standard implant‐retained overdentures” (SSO) and “mini‐implant‐retained overdentures” (MO), which was further subdivided into “two mini‐implant‐retained overdentures” (TMO) and “four mini‐implant‐retained overdentures” (FMO). The technical and biological parameters and oral health‐related quality of life were evaluated over a 10‐year period. Data were analysed for group comparisons and longitudinal trend analysis.ResultsSixteen patients (42%) dropped out during the study period. At the time of follow‐up, 98.4% of the implants were in situ. The first need for technical intervention occurred after 3.8 ± 1.1, 4.2 ± 0.9, and 4.6 ± 1.3 years in the TMO, SSO, and FMO groups, respectively. Attachment exchange (39%) was the most frequently performed intervention in all groups. Healthy peri‐implant and mucosal conditions were observed in 74% and 40% of patients after 1 and 10 years, respectively. The OHIP‐G14 score was 22.6 before implantation, 7.6 at 1 year (effect size [ES]: 1.1), and 5.4 at 10 years (ES: 2.3).ConclusionIrrespective of the minimal concept selected, complete mandibular dentures retained on implants improved the subjective perception of the quality of life. Application of these alternative minimal concepts may be practical in clinical practice.
Knowledge and Experiences of Oral Health Care and Periodontitis of Caregivers of Older Adults With Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Prieto Diego , Palacios Miguel , Wainstein Valentina , Ortuño Duniel , Mora Sebastián , Chaparro Alejandra , Pascual Andrés 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTBackground and ObjectivesThere is limited evidence on knowledge of related health among healthcare personnel who care for older adults. The objective of this study was to investigate the knowledge and experience of oral health care among family members and medical staff responsible for older adults with varying degrees of cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease.Materials and MethodsThis qualitative study explored the experiences and knowledge of 30 family members and medical staff through in‐depth, semi‐structured interviews. The interviews were recorded using both audio and video formats: digital platforms were used for immediate family members, while formal caregivers were interviewed in person. Researchers transcribed and analysed the recordings, categorising the answers to identify emerging topics until reaching saturation.ResultsThe core emerging themes among the direct family members were: (1) Lack of knowledge about oral health; (2) Oral hygiene role for the patients; (3) Consequences of a poor oral care; and (4) Recommendations for a better oral health care. For the formal caregivers the emerging themes were: (1) Lack of knowledge and experiences about oral health; (2) Deficient oral hygiene of residents; (3) Impact on quality of life; and (4) Suggestions for improving oral health.ConclusionDespite recognising the significance of oral health, direct family members and formal caregivers of older adults with cognitive impairment or dementia still need additional tools to effectively carry out necessary hygiene techniques and care.
Relationship of dihydroergotamine pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy, and nausea—A narrative review
Authors: Lipton Richard B. , Kollins John A. , Albrecht Detlef 
Published: November 2024

AbstractObjectiveTo assess the relationships between dihydroergotamine (DHE) pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters, clinical efficacy, and nausea incidence to determine a DHE PK profile that optimizes efficacy while minimizing adverse events (AEs), particularly nausea.BackgroundDihydroergotamine is a widely used option for the acute treatment of migraine. Although multiple DHE dosage forms, with varying PK and AE profiles, have been evaluated in randomized controlled trials (RCTs), the relationships between PK profile, efficacy, and the common DHE‐related AE, nausea, have not been comprehensively evaluated.MethodsA literature search identified RCTs evaluating the efficacy (2‐h pain relief [2hPR]) of different DHE dosage forms. The PK profiles for these DHE dosage forms were determined from published literature. Univariate regression analyses were performed to determine the PK parameters that best predicted 2hPR across DHE dosage forms. The relationship between maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) and nausea incidence for various dosage forms was determined from published Phase 1 trials.ResultsThe literature search identified nine RCTs with DHE dosage forms that reported 2hPR: DHE liquid nasal spray (four studies), DHE administered subcutaneously (three), and DHE administered via oral pulmonary inhalation (two). The DHE PK parameters that best predicted 2hPR rates were Cmax and area under the curve from time zero to 0.5 h post‐dose (AUC0‐0.5h) (R2 = 0.59 for each). Across Phase 1 trials, nausea incidence was minimal when Cmax was <2500 pg/mL but increased in a log‐linear manner when Cmax exceeded ~2500 pg/mL.ConclusionsThe maximum concentration and AUC over the first 30 min following DHE administration were associated with increasing rates of 2hPR and a Cmax below ~2500 pg/mL was associated with low incidences of nausea. We suggest that this may be an optimal profile for a DHE delivery form. Further research to test this hypothesis is warranted.
Genomic Diversity of U.S. Katahdin Hair Sheep
Authors: Nilson Sara M. , Burke Joan M. , Becker Gabrielle M. , Murdoch Brenda M. , Petersen Jessica L. , Lewis Ronald M. 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTIn the late 1950s, Katahdin hair sheep were developed as a composite breed of medium size and moderate prolificacy, with potential to express resistance to gastrointestinal nematodes. With increasing popularity and the recent adoption of genomic prediction in their genetic evaluation, there is a risk of decreasing variation with selection based on genomically enhanced estimated breeding values. While Katahdin pedigrees are readily available for monitoring diversity, they may not capture the entirety of genetic relationships. We aimed to characterise the genomic population structure and diversity present in the breed, and how these impact the size of a reference population necessary to achieve accurate genomic predictions. Genotypes of Katahdin sheep from 81 member flocks in the National Sheep Improvement Program (NSIP) were used. After quality control, there were 9704 animals and 31,984 autosomal single nucleotide polymorphisms analysed. Population structure was minimal as a single ancestral population explained 99.9% of the genetic variation among animals. The current Ne was estimated to be 150, and despite differences in trait heritabilities, the effect of Ne on the accuracy of genomic predictions suggested the breed should aim for a reference population size of 15,000 individuals. The average degree of inbreeding estimated from runs of homozygosity (ROH) was 16.6% ± 4.7. Four genomic regions of interest, previously associated with production traits, contained ROH shared among > 50% of the breed. Based on four additional methods, average genomic inbreeding coefficients ranged from 0.011 to 0.012. The current population structure and diversity of the breed reflects genetic connectedness across flocks due to the sharing of animals. Shared regions of ROH should be further explored for incorporation of functional effects into genomic predictions to increase selection gains. Negative impacts on genetic diversity due to genomic selection are not of immediate concern for Katahdin sheep engaged in NSIP.
Investigation of the effects of a new transdermal formulation of systemic diclofenac on the upper gastrointestinal mucosa in patients with low back pain: A comparative study with oral diclofenac
Authors: Fukase Hiroyuki , Futagami Seiji , Yamamoto Takatsugu , Masaoka Tatsuhiro , Terahara Takaaki , Okawa Koji , Tanaka Yusuke , Mita Tsuyoshi 
Published: November 2024

AbstractBackground and AimNon‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are associated with gastrointestinal mucosal damage attributed to a topical effect of NSAIDs on the gastrointestinal mucosa after oral administration and cyclooxygenase‐1 inhibition. Diclofenac sodium systemic patch (DSSP), a transdermal patch from which diclofenac sodium is absorbed through the skin to exert its effects through the circulating blood, is considered to reduce the occurrence of gastrointestinal mucosal damage compared with oral diclofenac. This study aimed to compare the effect of DSSP on the upper gastrointestinal mucosa with that of an orally administered diclofenac sodium tablet (DST).MethodsThis randomized, evaluator‐blinded study included Japanese patients with low back pain (LBP). The patients were administered with either DSSP (150 mg/day) or DST (75 mg/day) for 2 weeks. The primary endpoint was the incidence of gastroduodenal ulcers and/or erosions on upper gastrointestinal endoscopy after the study treatment.ResultsThirty patients each were randomly assigned to the DSSP and DST groups. The incidence of gastroduodenal ulcers and/or erosions was 26.7% and 86.2% in the DSSP and DST groups, respectively. The difference in the incidence was −59.5% (95% confidence interval: −77.0 to −34.6). No adverse events (AEs) were observed in the DSSP group, and 20.0% (6/30 patients) reported mild AEs in the DST group (excluding ulcers and erosions).ConclusionDSSP is associated with a lower risk of gastrointestinal mucosal damage than DST, which has the same active ingredient but uses a different route of administration, in patients with LBP.
Inside story of impact investing in emerging market: A systematic review to measure the responsible and sustainable investing pattern using the ADO framework
Authors: Aggarwal Shalini , Rathee Prerna , Arya Vikas , Roy Hiran 
Published: November 2024

AbstractImpact investing has emerged as a significant global phenomenon as it provides a valuable avenue for investors to shape their cognitive decision‐making ability to have a societal impact. The present study aims to review the existing literature on impact investing systematically. It tries to understand the major motivational factors that impact the investor in impact investing using the ADO framework by linking it with McClelland's Theory of Motivation, geographical areas, journal of publication, and type of research articles for impact investing, significant research gaps in impact investing, theoretical and managerial implications and future research of impact investing. PRISMA framework has been used to finalize the articles from the Scopus database. As a result, 154 articles have been identified from the year 2011 to 2024. The result identifies three motivational factors that drive the investor to invest in impact investing. It includes financial, social, and self‐actualization. The study will guide the policymaker in introducing comprehensive regulatory policies in the area of impact investing. Accordingly, tax incentives and subsidies should be granted for promoting investment in impact investing. The development of proper infrastructure for trading in impact investing needs attention.
Relationship between actigraphy‐derived physical activity, sedentary behaviours and sleep parameters in preschool girls and boys: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Matłosz Piotr , Wyszyńska Justyna , Tutak Jacek , Martinez‐Rodriguez Alejandro , Herbert Jarosław 
Published: November 2024

SummaryThe aim of the study was to examine associations between moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity and sedentary time with sleep quality and quantity among preschool girls and boys using objective methods. Children (5–6 years old) attending kindergarten were recruited (n = 676). Measures included accelerometer‐derived 24‐hr activity and sleep for seven consecutive days. Longer time spent in moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity was associated with higher sleep efficiency both in boys (p < 0.0001) and girls (p = 0447), and with lower Sleep Fragmentation Index in boys (p = 0.0042) and girls (p = 0.0494). Moreover, among boys, moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity was inversely associated with wakefulness after sleep onset (p = 0.0006), number of awakenings (p = 0.0081) and Fragmentation Index (p = 0.0041), while in girls with sleep duration (p = 0.0405), Movement Index (p = 0.0128) and Sleep Fragmentation Index (p = 0.0494). Longer time spent sedentary was associated with lower sleep efficiency, and higher wakefulness after sleep onset, number of awakenings, Movement Index and Sleep Fragmentation Index—all with p < 0.0001. Furthermore, sedentary time was inversely associated with sleep duration both in boys (p < 0.0001) and girls (p = 0.0006), and directly associated with Fragmentation Index but only in boys (p = 0.0069). Meeting the recommended level of moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity was associated with better sleep efficiency, lower wakefulness after sleep onset and number of awakenings among boys. All sleep‐related variables showed significant differences between quartile groups according to sedentary time (p < 0.05) in both the total group and the boys. The sedentary time had the strongest, negative effect on sleep‐related parameters in preschool children, therefore sedentary time reduction may contribute more to improving sleep quality than increasing moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity.
Dietary Habits of Individuals With Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis—Poor Fat‐Soluble Vitamin Intake and Dietary Quality
Authors: Lindqvist Catarina , Ingre Michael , Kechagias Stergios , Nilsson Emma , Molinaro Antonio , Rorsman Fredrik , Bergquist Annika 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTBackground and AimsIndividuals with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) have expressed a need for more dietary information. The aim of this study was to evaluate the dietary intake of individuals with PSC and compare it with Nordic nutrition recommendations 2023 (NNR2023).MethodsA cross‐sectional assessment of dietary intake was performed using a food‐frequency questionnaire among 120 individuals with PSC from five regions across Sweden. Macro‐ and micronutrient intake was compared to NNR2023. Dietary quality was evaluated using an index developed by the National Food Agency in Sweden.ResultsThe median age was 47 years (IQR 18), and median body mass index (BMI) was 25.2 kg/m2 (IQR 5.9). Eight percent had a BMI < 20, and 13% had a BMI > 30. The average fibre intake was 18 g (IQR 18). Median energy distribution included 36% from fat (15% saturated, 4.6% polyunsaturated), 17% from protein and 43% from carbohydrates, highlighting an imbalanced diet with low carbohydrate, fibre and polyunsaturated fat intake and high saturated fat consumption. More than half reported suboptimal intake of zinc, selenium and vitamins C, D and K and > 30% suboptimal intake of vitamins A, B6, E, niacin, folate, potassium, magnesium and iron. Forty percent had poor dietary quality. Longer PSC duration and previous colectomy were associated with a lower dietary quality.ConclusionsMany individuals with PSC do not reach the recommended levels of various micronutrients, especially fat‐soluble vitamins and report a poor dietary quality. The results highlight the need for a comprehensive approach to nutritional management in this population.Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04133792
Three‐Dimensional Evaluation of Changes in the Nose and Upper Lip After Secondary Alveolar Bone Grafting in Patients With Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate
Authors: Deedklin Attapong , Pisek Araya , Kongsomboon Supaporn , Pisek Poonsak 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTIntroductionAlveolar bone grafting (ABG) influences facial soft tissue changes, but the precise effects on the nose and upper lip remain unclear. This study used three‐dimensional (3D) facial images to evaluate nose and upper lip alterations after ABG. We further enhanced the visualisation of these changes by generating 3D superimpositions, colour maps and deviation analyses of key critical landmarks in these regions.Materials and MethodsForty patients (8–20 years old) with non‐syndromic unilateral cleft lip and cleft palate (UCLP) underwent ABG using the iliac bone from September 2022 to September 2023. Three‐dimensional facial images were analysed 1 month before and 3 months after surgery to evaluate the spatial displacement of 18 nose and upper lip landmarks to assess changes after ABG. Colour maps were constructed, and 3D deviation analysis was also performed. Paired sample t tests and Wilcoxon's signed‐rank tests were used to analyse alterations.ResultsThe 3D analysis uncovered significant forward movement on the cleft side only. This included nasal alar, alar curvature and subalar points. The labrale superius of the upper lip showed similar movement. Conversely, other landmarks showed minimal changes in all directions.ConclusionsABG can improve the nasal contour on the cleft side. After ABG, significant forward movement occurs in the cleft side of the nasal alar, alar curvature and subalar regions. Although these changes are minimal, they contribute to the overall improvement in facial aesthetics.
Student Perspectives of Access to Surgery Under General Anaesthetic in the Undergraduate Dental Curriculum
Authors: Macluskey Michaelina , Anderson Angela S. , McAllister Peter , Shepherd Simon D. 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTIntroductionDelivering dental graduates who are competent to carry out extractions and surgical extractions can be challenging. Access to general anaesthetic (GA) operating provides an opportunity not only for hands‐on experience but also to reinforce teaching in oral and maxillofacial surgery. The aim of this study was to determine what our final year students' perceptions were of exposure to GA operating lists.Materials and MethodsThis was a mixed‐methods prospective study involving an anonymous online questionnaire followed by a focus group. All final year students (n = 60) were invited to participate by email at the end of the academic year and involvement in the focus group was voluntary. Information collected included the type of surgery observed, clinical experience gained and their impression of the experience and whether it influenced career aspirations.ResultsForty‐one students completed the questionnaire (68%) and 10 students participated in the focus group (17%). All students observed treatment under GA and 38 (93%) treated cases under GA. Thirty‐nine (95%) students attended an oral surgery list and 33 (80.5%) attended an OMFS list. Most students carried out deciduous extractions (78%) and 15% carried out dentoalveolar surgery. Treatment observed was primarily oncological (70%) and dentoalveolar cases (54%). Access to GA was well received by the students who felt it provided improved teaching opportunities and helped to conceptualise the didactic teaching on the subject and place their dentistry within a wider healthcare context. Some students indicated a desire to pursue a career in oral surgery (37%) or OMFS (10%).ConclusionThe results presented here are indicative that students appreciate the learning opportunity afforded by the GA experience and our recommendation would be to perpetuate access to GA lists and the associated surgical exposure.