bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A microfluidic platform with integrated porous membrane cell-substrate impedance spectroscopy (PM-ECIS) for biological barrier assessment
Authors: Ugodnikov Alisa , Lu Joy , Chebotarev Oleg , Simmons Craig A.
Published: November 2023

Traditionally, biological barriers are assessed in vitro by measuring trans-endothelial/epithelial electrical resistance (TEER) across a monolayer using handheld chopstick electrodes. Implementation of TEER into organ-on-chip (OOC) setups is a challenge however, due to non-uniform current distribution and interference from biomaterials typically found in such systems. In this work, we address the pitfalls of standard TEER measurement through the application of porous membrane electrical cell-substrate impedance sensing (PM-ECIS) to an OOC setup. Gold leaf electrodes (working electrode diameters = 250, 500, 750 µm) were incorporated onto porous membranes and combined with biocompatible tape to assemble microfluidic devices. PM-ECIS resistance at 4 kHz was not influenced by presence of collagen hydrogel in bottom channels, compared to TEER measurements in same devices, which showed a difference of 1723 ± 381.8 Ω (p=0.006) between control and hydrogel conditions. A proof of concept, multi-day co-culture model of the blood-brain barrier was also demonstrated in these devices. PM-ECIS measurements were robust to fluid shear (5 dyn/cm2) in cell-free devices, yet were highly sensitive to flow-induced changes in an endothelial barrier model. Initiation of perfusion (0.06 dyn/cm2) in HUVEC-seeded devices corresponded to significant decreases in impedance at 40 kHz (p<0.01 for 750 and 500 µm electrodes) and resistance at 4 kHz (p<0.05 for all electrode sizes) relative to static control cultures, with minimum values reached at 6.5 to 9.5 hours after induction of flow. Our microfluidic PM-ECIS platform enables sensitive, non-invasive, real-time measurements of barrier function in setups integrating critical OOC features like 3D co-culture, biomaterials and shear stress.
Gender and Belief about Menstruation and Academic Performance
Authors: Odah Destiny
Published: November 2023

Menstruation is a natural process for women that shows a healthy female reproductive system, yet women are stigmatized during this experience. A woman’s physical, mental, and social well-being are significantly impacted by menstruation. Thus, menstrual disorders are widespread and are a major social problem. There have been variations in people’s perceptions of menstruation and gaps in research comparing gender and beliefs about menstruation and its impact on academic performance. This study investigates gender and beliefs about menstruation and how it affects academic performance and social life using a self-administered online questionnaire that inquires about general knowledge of menstruation, participants’ beliefs and experiences with menstruation, participants’ academic performance and demographic questions. Participants responded using a 5-point Likert scale, showing that 40.44% of the respondents’ knowledge and understanding of menstruation have positively influenced over the years. Furthermore, the results from the chi-square analysis revealed an association between men’s and women’s perceptions of menstruation. Interestingly, women stated that menstruation has no effect on their academic performances, but on the other hand, men were indecisive about its impact on women’s intellectual tasks. Also, 28.72% of respondents reported that they find studying and excelling during menstruation uneasy. The result shows that women can excel at any task, even during menstruation. Knowledge of menstruation is essential in furthering a better understanding of women’s health, demystifying menstruation myths, and advancing the social well-being of this gender.
Isolating neural signatures of conscious speech perception with a no-report sine-wave speech paradigm
Authors: Zhu Yunkai , Li Charlotte , Hendry Camille , Glass James , Canseco-Gonzalez Enriqueta , Pitts Michael A. , Dykstra Andrew R.
Published: November 2023

Identifying neural correlates of conscious perception is a fundamental endeavor of cognitive neuroscience. Most studies so far have focused on visual awareness along with trial-by-trial reports of task relevant stimuli, which can confound neural measures of perceptual awareness with post-perceptual processing. Here, we used a three-phase sine-wave speech paradigm that dissociated between conscious speech perception and task relevance while recording EEG in humans of both sexes. Compared to tokens perceived as noise, physically identical sine-wave speech tokens that were perceived as speech elicited a left-lateralized, near-vertex negativity, which we interpret as a phonological version of a perceptual awareness negativity. This response appeared between 200 and 300 ms after token onset and was not present for frequency-flipped control tokens that were never perceived as speech. In contrast, the P3b elicited by task-irrelevant tokens did not significantly differ when the tokens were perceived as speech versus noise, and was only enhanced for tokens that were both perceived as speechandrelevant to the task. Our results extend the findings from previous studies on visual awareness and speech perception, and suggest that correlates of conscious perception, across types of conscious content, are most likely to be found in mid-latency negative-going brain responses in content-specific sensory areas.

Significance Statement

How patterns of brain activity give rise to conscious perception is a fundamental question of cognitive neuroscience. Here, we asked whether markers of conscious speech perception can be separated from task-related confounds. We combined sine-wave speech - a degraded speech signal that is heard as noise by naive individuals but can readily be heard as speech after minimal training - with a no-report paradigm that independently manipulated perception (speech versus non-speech) and task (relevant versus irrelevant). Using this paradigm, we were able to identify a marker of speech perception in mid-latency responses over left frontotemporal EEG channels that was independent of task. Our results demonstrate that the “perceptual awareness negativity” is present for a new type of perceptual content (speech).
Floral scent emission ofEpiphyllum oxypetalum: identification of a novel cytosol-localized geraniol biosynthesis pathway
Authors: Zhang Yiyang , Zhang Yuhan , Tian Qiurui , Wei Likun , Zhu Ting , Zhou Zhiwei , Wang Jiaqi , Liu Zhibin , Tang Wei , Xiao Haijun , Liu Mingchun , Li Tao , Sun Qun
Published: November 2023

Epiphyllum oxypetalum, a renowned ornamental species in Cactaceae, releases attractive fragrance during its infrequent, transient and nocturnal flowering, the nature and biosynthesis of the volatiles for this floral scent, however, remained unexplored.

Employing volatilomic, transcriptomic and biochemical approaches, we systematically characterized the composition, emission dynamics and biosynthesis ofE. oxypetalumfloral scent.

Floral scent composition was highly dynamic, with trans-geraniol comprising 72.54% of the total emission at full bloom, followed by benzyl alcohol (12.96%) and methyl salicylate (3.75%), which predominantly emanated from petals and sepals. Transcriptomic analysis and inhibition assay using pathway-specific inhibitors revealed the mevalonate (MVA) pathway as the precursor source for trans-geraniol biosynthesis. Together with elevated expression of both cytosol-localized geraniol pyrophosphate synthase EoGDPS and geraniol synthase EoTPSa1, we elucidated an unusual cytosolic biosynthesis route for geraniol inE. oxypetalumpetals.

Our study onE. oxypetalumscent emission and its biosynthesis offers a comprehensive profile of cactus floral scent profiles and presents a rare case of cytosolic geraniol biosynthesis using MVA pathway-derived substrates. These findings underline the unique metabolism of cactus flower volatiles, which hold a promise to be applied in the development of novel perfumes.
Coagulation activation-induced fibrinolysis biomarker changes depend on thrombophilic risk factors and their clinical phenotype: an interventionalin vivostudy
Authors: Reda Sara , Schwarz Nadine , Müller Jens , McRae Hannah L. , Oldenburg Johannes , Pötzsch Bernd , Rühl Heiko
Published: November 2023

Background

Recently we have shown alterations in the anticoagulant response to recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa)-induced coagulation activation in patients with thrombophilia.

Objectives

Here we extended thisin vivomodel to study fibrinolysis biomarkers.

Methods

The study population included 56 patients with thrombophilia and a history of venous thromboembolism (VTE+), 38 asymptomatic patients with thrombophilia (VTE-) and 35 healthy controls. Plasma levels of D-dimer, plasmin-α2-antiplasmin complex (PAP), and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) were monitored over 8 hours after rFVIIa infusion (15 µg/kg) along with thrombin activation markers and activated protein C (APC).

Results

In all cohorts, PAP increased (P<3.9·10-10) and PAI-1 decreased (P<3.5·10-8). In contrast to thrombin-antithrombin complex (TAT), which also increased temporarily in all cohorts (P<3.6·10-6), changes of PAP and PAI-1 did not reverse during the observation period. The area under the curve (AUC) of PAP (respectively TAT), as measure of plasmin (respectively thrombin) formation, was greater in the VTE+ cohort than in healthy controls (PAP AUCP=0.003, TAT AUCP=2.5·10-4) and showed correlation (r=0.554). As evidenced by the respective AUCs, asymptomatic factor V Leiden (FVL) carriers in the VTE-cohort showed less PAP formation (P=9·10-4), more pronounced PAI-1 decline (P=0.010), and increased APC formation (P=0.020) than those within the VTE+ group (n=19 each). This was not observed in prothrombin 20210G>A carriers or patients with unexplained familial thrombophilia.

Conclusion

rFVIIa-induced thrombin formation is associated with fibrinolysis parameter changes outlasting the concomitant anticoagulant response. Both correlate with thrombosis history in FVL and might help to explain its variable clinical expressivity.

Essentials

Impairment of fibrinolysis might result in increased risk of thrombosis.

We studied fibrinolytic biomarkers after coagulation activation by recombinant factor VIIa.

Hereby induced alterations in fibrinolytic biomarkers outlast concomitant anticoagulant changes.

Factor V Leiden carriers with or without thrombosis showed distinct fibrinolytic changes.
Giotto Suite: a multi-scale and technology-agnostic spatial multi-omics analysis ecosystem
Authors: Chen Jiaji George , Chávez-Fuentes Joselyn Cristina , O’Brien Matthew , Xu Junxiang , Ruiz Edward , Wang Wen , Amin Iqra , Sarfraz Irzam , Guckhool Pratishtha , Sistig Adriana , Yuan Guo-Cheng , Dries Ruben
Published: November 2023

Emerging spatial omics technologies continue to advance the molecular mapping of tissue architecture and the investigation of gene regulation and cellular crosstalk, which in turn provide new mechanistic insights into a wide range of biological processes and diseases. Such technologies provide an increasingly large amount of information content at multiple spatial scales. However, representing and harmonizing diverse spatial datasets efficiently, including combining multiple modalities or spatial scales in a scalable and flexible manner, remains a substantial challenge. Here, we present Giotto Suite, a suite of open-source software packages that underlies a fully modular and integrated spatial data analysis toolbox. At its core, Giotto Suite is centered around an innovative and technology-agnostic data framework embedded in the R software environment, which allows the representation and integration of virtually any type of spatial omics data at any spatial resolution. In addition, Giotto Suite provides both scalable and extensible end-to-end solutions for data analysis, integration, and visualization. Giotto Suite integrates molecular, morphology, spatial, and annotated feature information to create a responsive and flexible workflow for multi-scale, multi-omic data analyses, as demonstrated here by applications to several state-of-the-art spatial technologies. Furthermore, Giotto Suite builds upon interoperable interfaces and data structures that bridge the established fields of genomics and spatial data science, thereby enabling independent developers to create custom-engineered pipelines. As such, Giotto Suite creates an immersive ecosystem for spatial multi-omic data analysis.
A primary culture method for the easy, efficient and effective acquisition of oligodendrocyte lineage cells
Authors: Kim Hanki , Kim Bum Jun , Koh Seungyon , Cho Hyo Jin , Jin Xuelian , Kim Byung Gon , Choi Jun Young
Published: November 2023

Oligodendrocytes (OL) are myelin forming glial cells in the central nervous system.In vitroprimary OL culture models provide the benefit of a more readily controlled environment facilitating the evaluation of diverse OL stages and convoluted dynamics. Conventional methods of primary OL culture do exist, but their performance in terms of efficiency and simplicity has room for improvement. We present a novel method of primary OL culture, namely the E3 (Easy, efficient, and effective) method, which greatly improves cell yield and reduces time required to oligodendrocyte progenitor cell (OPC) acquisition and maturation into OLs. We also provide optimal media compositions for augmentation of OPC proliferation and a more robust maturation into myelin forming OLs.In vitrocharacteristics of the OL lineage discovered during the development of the E3 method present implications for further research on OL physiology and pathophysiology.
Identifying disruptions by COVID-19 and devising strategies to build robust supply chain – a case study illustration of India's energy storage sector
Authors: Singh Shikha , Kumar Sameer , Kumar Adarsh
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The outset of the COVID-19 pandemic caused disruptions of all forms in the supply chain globally for almost two and a half years. This study identifies various challenges in the effective functioning of the existing supply chain during COVID-19. The focus is to see the disruptions impacting the energy storage supply chains.

Design/methodology/approach

The procedure entails a thorough analysis of scholarly literature pertaining to various supply chain interruptions, confirmed and verified by experts working in an energy storage company in India. These experts also confirmed the occurrence of more disruptive factors during their interviews and questionnaire survey. Moreover, this process attempts to filter out the relevant causal disruption factors in an energy storage company by using the integrated approach of qualitative and quantitative methodologies.

Findings

The results provide practical insights for the company management in planning and devising new strategies to manage supply chain disruptions. Supply chains for companies in other industry sectors can also benefit from the proposed framework and results in making them more robust to counter future disastrous events.

Originality/value

The study provides an easily adaptable decision framework to different industries by closely examining supply chain disruptions and identifying associated causes for building a robust supply chain focused on the energy storage sector. It examines four disruption dimensions and investigates possible outcomes and impacts of disruptions.
A conceptual framework of decentralized blockchain integrated system based on building information modeling to steering digital administration of disputes in the IPD contracts
Authors: Faraji Amir , Homayoon Arya Shima , Ghasemi Elnaz , Rashidi Maria , Perera Srinath , Tam Vivian , Rahnamayiezekavat Payam
Published: November 2023

Purpose

In the construction industry, various parties are involved in a project. Consequently, claims and disputes are inevitable in this industry. This paper aims to develop Integrated project delivery (IPD) practices including early involvement of stakeholders and multiparty contracts which its combination with advanced technologies such as blockchain can lead to better dispute management and improve the whole construction process.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on literature review, the alternative dispute resolution (ADR) for IPD contacts were identified, and three formats of IPD contracts were selected, and the dispute resolution process of them has been analyzed. Then, based on blockchain review, a conceptual blockchain-based dispute management (BDM) model was generated for ADR in IPD. Model validation was done by an interview. Experts were asked to compare the BDM model with the traditional system regarding the ADR duration.

Findings

Analyses of the collected data from the experts demonstrated that the BDM model has better function in terms of time and cost for ADR process when the project is facing serious and considerable number of disputes. The relation between blockchain technology (BCT) and building information modeling (BIM) has been examined through a framework, and the ability of the proposed model for administrating dispute resolution process has been verified using four different scenarios of construction claims that show the system can run successfully.

Originality

The current study proposes a truthful model, reliable framework to address the problem of project dispute management in IPD contracts. The system combines the ability to being unchangeable and the reliability characteristics of BCT with informative and automation aspects of BIM together to improve dispute resolution issue in the IPD system.
Does the sharing of leadership increase the coherence of a school's instructional framework?
Authors: Zhan Xi , Goddard Roger , Anthony Anika
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Existing research suggests that organizational learning, jointly implemented by principals and teachers may reduce agency risks and improve school management effectiveness. However, research investigating how this process occurs is lacking. The relationship between school leaders promoting the involvement of teachers in school-wide processes focused on instructional improvement and the coherence characterizing a school's instructional program remains unclear.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors identified shared instructional leadership and instructional coherence, as two key variables describing the process of organizational learning and the outcome of agency risk reduction. The authors employed hierarchical linear modeling to test the hypothesis that shared leaderships positively predicts differences among schools in instructional coherence.

Findings

Based on a sample of 113 public high schools selected from a U.S. Midwestern state, the results confirm the hypothesis.

Research limitations/implications

This study uses the existing theoretical and empirical findings to interpret the potential relationship between shared leadership and instructional coherence, and validates it through empirical data analysis. The findings expand the understanding of the shared leadership theory. Although the design of this study is strictly based on theoretical and empirical findings, and part of the purpose of the research is to find the reasons why shared leadership seems to be insignificant in some countries and regions, readers should still note that the sample source is American schools. The findings of this study are worth examining with different samples in future studies.

Practical implications

Since the direct relationship between shared leadership and student standardized test scores has been difficult to measure, and in some countries even negative, there is debate about the need for shared leadership. The difficulty of measurement is caused by the diversity of leadership subjects and the complexity of leadership tasks. This study finds out the direct object of shared leadership and the process of exerting its effects, which will expand the understanding of the positive meaning of shared leadership. This will help different countries and regions better identify and play the role of shared leadership.

Originality/value

Based on the combination of organizational learning theory, agency theory and shared leadership theory, the study modeled the process of collaborative organizational learning among principals and teachers. The study employed instructional coherence as a form of structured organizational learning that is a prerequisite for improvement in common measures of student learning such as standardized test scores. Do so provide practical guidance for educators seeking improvement through organizational learning.
The real implications of mimicking peer firms' cash holdings
Authors: Kadzima Marvelous , Machokoto Michael , Chamisa Edward
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study empirically examines the nonlinear effects of mimicking peer firms' cash holdings on shareholder value, with consideration of macroeconomic conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

An instrumental variable approach for nonlinear models is estimated for a large sample of US firms over the period 1991–2019. This approach addresses the reflection problem in examining peer effects, whereby it is impossible to separate the individual's effects on the group, or vice versa, if both are simultaneously determined.

Findings

The authors find an inverted U-shaped association between shareholder value and mimicking intensity of peer firms' cash holdings. This result suggests that mimicking peer firms' cash holdings is subject to diminishing returns. It is more beneficial at lower levels of mimicking intensity but less so or suboptimal at higher levels. Further evidence indicates that this inverted U-shaped shareholder value-mimicking intensity nexus is asymmetric. Specifically, it is salient for decreases relative to increases in cash holdings and, more importantly, in good relative to bad macroeconomic states. The findings are robust to several concerns and have important implications for liquidity management policies.

Originality/value

The authors provide new empirical evidence of the nonlinear effects of mimicking peer firms' cash holdings on shareholder value, which varies with macroeconomic conditions.
Sociopolitical and financial goals in state-owned manufacturers' expansion of production capacity: evidence from China
Authors: Gao Renfei , Lu Jane , Hu Helen Wei , Martin Geoff
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The rapid, yet low-profit, expansion of the production capacity of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) represents a remarkable phenomenon. However, the motivation behind this key operational decision remains underexplored, especially concerning the prioritization of sociopolitical and financial goals in operations management. Drawing on the multiple-goal model in the behavioral theory of the firm (BTOF), the authors' study aims to examine how SOE capacity expansion is driven by performance feedback regarding the sociopolitical goal of employment provision and how SOEs differently prioritize sociopolitical and financial goals based on negative versus positive feedback on the sociopolitical goal.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors' study uses panel data on 826 Chinese SOEs in manufacturing industries from 2011 to 2019. The authors employ the fixed-effects model with Driscoll–Kraay standard errors, which are robust to heteroscedasticity, autocorrelation and cross-sectional dependence.

Findings

The authors find that SOEs increase capacity expansion as sociopolitical feedback becomes more negative, but they may not increase capacity expansion in response to positive sociopolitical feedback. Moreover, negative profitability feedback strengthens SOEs' capacity expansion in response to negative sociopolitical feedback. In contrast, negative profitability feedback weakens their response to positive sociopolitical feedback.

Originality/value

The authors' study offers a novel behavioral explanation of SOEs' operational decisions regarding capacity expansion. While the literature has traditionally assumed multiple goals as either hierarchical or compatible, the authors extend the BTOF's multiple-goal model to illuminate when firms pursue sociopolitical and financial goals as compatible (i.e. the activation rule) versus hierarchical (i.e. the sequential rule), thereby reconciling their tension in distinct performance situations. Practically, the authors provide fine-grained insights into how operations managers can prioritize multiple goals when making operational decisions. The authors' study also shows how policymakers can influence SOE operations to pursue sociopolitical goals for public benefit.
Assessing the effectiveness of Japan's ODA policy towards China: whether Japan has realized its national interests
Authors: Qin Qian
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This research explores the intricate dynamics of national interests realised through Japan's official development assistance (ODA) to China. It aims to deepen the understanding of these mechanisms, detailing the extent to which Japan has accomplished its national interests.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper applies the role theory and narrative analysis to elucidate Japan's national role conception and its categories of national interests with regards to its ODA policy. It utilises both qualitative and quantitative methods to examine the success rate in achieving Japan's diplomatic objectives and how those interests have manifested over time.

Findings

The findings suggest a mixed outcome. Whilst Japan's ODA to China has helped in expanding trade and fostering mutual understanding and cooperation, it has been less successful in promoting democratic governance in China or effectively counterbalancing China's regional power. Hence, the realisation of national interests through ODA is a complex process contingent upon numerous factors.

Originality/value

This study stands out for its multifaceted approach in examining Japan's ODA policy towards China, integrating both quantitative and qualitative methodologies and applying the role theory in the context of international development aid. It fills a significant gap in the literature by analysing the interplay between national interests and foreign aid, providing nuanced insights into the successes and challenges of Japan's pursuit of its diplomatic objectives. The study's findings have important implications for understanding the complexity of international aid dynamics and can inform future policy decisions in the realm of international relations and foreign aid.
Prospects and risks of digitalization in public relations research: mapping recurrent narratives of a debate in fragmentation (2010–2022)
Authors: Kretschmer Jannik , Winkler Peter
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The debate on digitalization in the public relations (PR) literature has fragmented considerably over the past decade because of its focus on upcoming media-technological innovations, required professional skills and management concepts. Yet the field has difficulties in developing an integrative perspective on the implications of digitalization as a broader socio-technological transformation with a balanced consideration of prospects and risks.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes an integrative perspective that focuses more on the enduring imaginaries of how digitalization can transform society for better or worse. It traces the historical roots of five imaginaries of digitalization, which have already emerged over the past century yet have experienced a significant revival and popularization in the current debate. Based on these five imaginaries, the authors performed a narrative literature review of the digitalization debate in 10 leading PR journals from 2010 to 2022.

Findings

The five imaginaries allow for a systematization of the fragmented digitalization debate in the field, reconstructing recurrent narratives, prospects and risks.

Originality/value

The originality of this contribution lies in its reconstructive approach, tracing societal imaginaries of digitalization and their impact on the current disciplinary debate. This approach provides context for a balanced assessment of and engagement with upcoming, increasingly fragmented digital advancements in PR research and practice.
Measuring the integrated reporting quality in Europe: balanced scorecard perspectives
Authors: Nada Omar Hassan Ali , Győri Zsuzsanna
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The aim of this study is to evaluate the adoption and quality of integrated reports in the European Union (EU).

Design/methodology/approach

The sample consists of 147 listed firms from the 18 EU countries during 2013–2020. This study creates a disclosure index – based on the balanced scorecard (BSC) that reflects the information content of integrated reports. The content analysis method is used to measure the integrated reporting quality (IRQ).

Findings

The findings demonstrate that the IRQ increased across the study’s time frame, going from 49.3% in 2013 to 77% in 2020. Furthermore, financial disclosures still get the most attention in the integrated reporting (IR), followed by learning and growth perspective disclosures. In addition, businesses in the financial and industrial sectors rely more on integrated reports. However, the utility sector has the highest IRQ score. By country, Spain has the highest rate of IR adoption, followed by France. Other countries, such as Austria and Hungary, have only implemented IR by one company each.

Research limitations/implications

This study adds to the IR literature a new approach to measure IRQ by linking BSC with the IR framework. Empirically, businesses of any size can use this method to assess the degree of balance between the revealed financial and nonfinancial information in their reports.

Practical implications

Empirically, this study helps IR practitioners in determining how widely IR is used in Europe and in updating the database on the IR website. It helps them update and improve the IR framework by identifying the elements that have the least transparency and quality, investigating the causes and enhancing them.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to examine the IRQ in EU countries by linking the BSC with IR elements. This is to split the elements into their own pillars, making it easier to track disclosure and evaluate the corporations’ interest in revealing these perspectives, on their own and collectively.
Do medications increase the efficacy of digital interventions for smoking cessation? Secondary results from the iCanQuit randomized trial
Authors: Bricker Jonathan B. , Santiago‐Torres Margarita , Mull Kristin E. , Sullivan Brianna M. , David Sean P. , Schmitz Joy , Stotts Angela , Rigotti Nancy A.
Published: November 2023

Background and aims

iCanQuit is a smartphone application (app) proven efficacious for smoking cessation in a Phase III randomized controlled trial (RCT). This study aimed to measure whether medications approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for smoking cessation would further enhance the efficacy of iCanQuit, relative to its parent trial comparator—the National Cancer Institute's (NCI's) QuitGuide app.

Design

Secondary analysis of the entire parent trial sample of a two‐group (iCanQuit and QuitGuide), stratified, doubled‐blind RCT.

Setting

United States.

Participants

Participants who reported using an FDA‐approved cessation medication on their own (n = 619) and those who reported no use of cessation medications (n = 1469).

Interventions

Participants were randomized to receive iCanQuit app or NCI's QuitGuide app.

Measurements

Use of FDA‐approved medications was measured at 3 months post‐randomization. Smoking cessation outcomes were measured at 3, 6 and 12 months. The primary outcome was 12‐month self‐reported 30‐day point prevalence abstinence (PPA).

Findings

The data retention rate at the 12‐month follow‐up was 94.0%. Participants were aged 38.5 years, 71.0% female, 36.6% minority race/ethnicity, 40.6% high school or less education, residing in all 50 US States and smoking 19.2 cigarettes/day. The 29.6% of all participants who used medications were more likely to choose nicotine replacement therapy (NRT; 78.8%) than other cessation medications (i.e. varenicline or bupropion; 18.3 and 10.5%, respectively) and use did not differ by app treatment assignment (all P > 0.05). There was a significant (P = 0.049) interaction between medication use and app treatment assignment on PPA. Specifically, 12‐month quit rates were 34% for iCanQuit versus 20% for QuitGuide [odds ratio (OR) = 2.36, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.59, 3.49] among participants reporting any medication use, whereas among participants reporting no medication use, quit rates were 28% for iCanQuit versus 22% for QuitGuide (OR = 1.41, 95% CI = 1.09, 1.82). Results were stronger for those using only NRT: 40% quit rates for iCanQuit versus 18% quit rates for QuitGuide (OR = 3.57, 95% CI = 2.20, 5.79).

Conclusions

The iCanQuit smartphone app for smoking cessation was more efficacious than the QuitGuide smartphone app, regardless of whether participants used medications to aid cessation. Smoking cessation medications, especially nicotine replacement therapy, might enhance the efficacy of the iCanQuit app.
Prevalence and factors associated with changes in frailty among community‐dwelling older adults in Japan during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A prospective cohort study from 2020 to 2022
Authors: Hirose Tamaki , Sawaya Yohei , Ishizaka Masahiro , Hashimoto Naori , Kubo Akira , Urano Tomohiko
Published: November 2023

Aim

This study aimed to ascertain the prevalence of frailty during the pandemic and to determine factors associated with changes in frailty status.

Methods

In May–June of 2020–2022, we assessed the frailty of 549 participants using the Kihon Checklist. Furthermore, we classified participant residences as urban, suburban, and rural and investigated participants’ engagement in hobbies and community activities in 2020 and 2022. Cochran's Q test was used to analyze the proportions of frailty status. Subsequently, we conducted a binomial logistic regression analysis with the improvement/deterioration of frailty status from 2020 to 2022 as the dependent variable, and engagement in hobbies and community activities as the independent variables.

Results

Significant changes were observed among participants in urban areas, where an increase in pre‐frailty and a decrease in robust individuals from 2020 to 2021 were noted. Focusing on item no. 17 (going out), the decreasing frequency had recovered by 2022 in the group of all groups. Continued engagement in only hobbies or only community activities, and continued engagement in both were associated with remained robust/frailty‐status improvement. Moreover, not engaging in either hobbies or community activities was associated with remained frail/frailty‐status deterioration.

Conclusions

During the early stages, the COVID‐19 pandemic impacted the frailty of older adults in densely populated areas. The results also suggest an attenuation in the decline in older adult activity in 2022. Continuous engagement in hobbies and community activities was crucial for improving and preventing deterioration in frailty status during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 40–47.
Direct oral anticoagulants in skin surgery: a systematic review of their complications and recommendations for perioperative management
Authors: Ireland Patrick A. , Borruso Luca , Spencer Sascha K. R. , Rosen Richard , Rosen Robert
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Many patients undergoing cutaneous surgery are prescribed at least one anticoagulant or antiplatelet agent. With the recent emergence of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), there is a deficit of knowledge regarding optimal perioperative management. This review aims to evaluate the evidence and risk surrounding management of DOACs in patients undergoing skin surgeries.

Methods

Systematic review of EMBASE, Scopus, and PubMed, with inclusion of studies that detailed perioperative management of DOACs in those undergoing skin surgery. Primary outcome measures were perioperative hemorrhagic and thromboembolic complications.

Results

Seven thousand seven hundred and forty‐one abstracts were identified, with 13 articles meeting inclusion criteria. Two studies investigated complication risk associated with DOAC continuation in skin surgery and found an average rate of hemorrhagic complications of 1.74%. Two studies evaluated complications associated with DOAC cessation prior to skin surgery, with a pooled thromboembolic complication rate of 0.15%. Articles comparing continuation and cessation discovered no decreased risk of bleeding with DOAC cessation prior to surgery (P = 0.93). Seven of the 13 articles compared complications in a control vs a DOAC group undergoing cutaneous procedures. Evidence was conflicting but may have suggested a small increase in bleeding risk in those on DOAC therapy.

Conclusion

Optimal management of anticoagulants perioperatively is difficult because of conflicting information, complicated by advent of novel agents. Risk of hemorrhagic complications with both continuation and interruption of DOAC therapy was low. Perioperative DOAC management can be guided by procedural bleeding and patient clotting risk and can often be continued in minor dermatologic procedures.
The chemistry and bioactive properties behind microalgae‐enriched gluten‐free breads
Authors: Freitas Marco A. , Ferreira Joana , Nunes Maria Cristiana , Raymundo Anabela
Published: November 2023

This work aims to: (i) assess volatiles composition of microalgae‐enriched gluten‐free breads (prepared with Tetraselmis chuii, Chlorella vulgaris and Microchloropsis gaditana); (ii) report the bioaccessibility of protein and minerals after a static in vitro digestion model; (iii) understand how it affects the bioactive properties of gluten‐free breads in regard to antioxidant capacity and the α‐amylase inhibitory potential. Therefore, nutritional composition and bioactive properties of gluten‐free breads before and after in vitro digestion model were examined. Identification of compounds responsible for the overall aroma of microalgae using GC–MS was done. There was a considerable decrease in protein and minerals available after in vitro digestion, as well as in the antioxidant potential. The overall aroma of microalgae‐enriched breads was mainly due to the presence of alcohols, representing the major class of volatiles present in breads (3% to 59%), being lower for T. chuii‐enriched bread. Terpenes also existed in considerable amounts especially in M. gaditana (24%) where γ‐terpinene was the most abundant. Alkanoic acids were the most abundant lipophilic bioactive compounds (25%–68%), and 9,12‐octadecadienoic acid was the major identified compound (13%–51%). Phytic acid is also present in all microalgae‐enriched breads and may contribute to the decrease in the bioaccessibility of nutrients.
The lingering symptoms of post‐COVID‐19 condition (long‐COVID): a prospective cohort study
Authors: Tan Stuart , Pryor Anna J. G. , Melville Geoffrey W. , Fischer Olivia , Hewitt Lyndel , Davis Kimberley J.
Published: November 2023

Background

Longer‐term symptoms (long COVID) may be present in seemingly recovered patients for several months and can be debilitating.

Aim

To investigate the prevalence and type of symptoms in those with a prior COVID‐19 diagnosis.

Methods

This prospective, longitudinal observational study commenced in July 2020 investigating the longer‐term health impacts of COVID‐19. Participants were recruited via public health units and media publicity. Surveys were completed upon enrolment, and at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months. Outcome measures included incidence of activity limitations and symptoms against health and vaccination status, age and gender.

Results

Overall, 339 participants were recruited. At 3 months after COVID‐19, 66.8% reported symptoms, and 44.8% were still experiencing symptoms at 12 months. Fatigue was most common at every point (between 53.1% and 33.1%). Pain symptoms increased in relative prevalence over time, whereas respiratory/pulmonary‐type symptoms decreased substantially after 3 months. Females and younger people were more likely to experience symptoms in the early stages of long COVID (P < 0.01) and those with more comorbidities in the latter stages (P < 0.001). Vaccination showed a statistically significant protective effect against symptoms (P < 0.01–0.001).

Conclusion

Long‐term COVID‐19 symptoms exist among recovered patients up to 12 months after contracting the virus. Fatigue is a primary contributor, while chronic pain became more problematic after 6 months. Vaccination was a factor in preventing long‐term symptoms and aiding faster recovery from symptoms. Further work exploring additional contributors to symptom prevalence would assist in developing appropriate follow‐up care.
A comparison of the outcomes of pulmonary versus extrapulmonary extensive‐stage small cell carcinoma
Authors: Chen Emily , Yip Po Y. , Tognela Annette , Gandy Geovanny , Earl Clare , Tran Patrick , Kok Peey‐Sei
Published: November 2023

Background

Extrapulmonary small cell carcinomas (EPSCCs) are rare cancers, comprising 0.1–0.4% of all cancers. The scarcity of EPSCC studies has led current treatment strategies to be extrapolated from small cell lung cancer (SCLC), justified by analogous histological and clinical features.

Aims

We conducted a retrospective cohort study comparing the outcomes of extensive‐stage (ES) SCLC and EPSCC.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with ES SCLC or EPSCC between 2010 and 2020 from four hospitals in Sydney were identified. Patients who received active treatment and best supportive care were included. The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS), and secondary endpoints were progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall response rates (ORRs).

Results

Three hundred and eighty‐four patients were included (43 EPSCC vs. 340 SCLC). EPSCC were of genitourinary (n = 15), unknown primary (n = 13) and gastrointestinal (n = 12) origin. Treatment modalities for EPSCC compared to SCLC included palliative chemotherapy (56% vs 73%), palliative radiotherapy (47% vs 59%) and consolidation chest radiotherapy (10% of SCLC). Overall, median OS was 6.4 versus 7 months for EPSCC versus SCLC respectively, but highest in prostate EPSCC (25.6 months). Of those who received chemotherapy (22 EPSCC vs 233 SCLC), median OS was 10.4 versus 8.4 months (HR OS 0.81, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.5–1.31, P = 0.38); PFS was 5.4 versus 5.5 months (HR PFS 0.93, 95% CI: 0.58–1.46, P = 0.74) and ORR were 73% versus 68%.

Conclusions

EPSCC and SCLC appeared to have comparable OS and treatment outcomes. However, the wide range of OS in EPSCC highlights the need for an improved understanding of its genomics to explore alternative therapeutics.
Applications of single‐cell omics for chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy
Authors: Ghaffari Sasan , Saleh Mahshid , Akbari Behnia , Ramezani Faezeh , Mirzaei Hamid Reza
Published: November 2023

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy is a promising cancer treatment modality. The breakthroughs in CAR T cell therapy were, in part, possible with the help of cell analysis methods, such as single‐cell analysis. Bulk analyses have provided invaluable information regarding the complex molecular dynamics of CAR T cells, but their results are an average of thousands of signals in CAR T or tumour cells. Since cancer is a heterogeneous disease where each minute detail of a subclone could change the outcome of the treatment, single‐cell analysis could prove to be a powerful instrument in deciphering the secrets of tumour microenvironment for cancer immunotherapy. With the recent studies in all aspects of adoptive cell therapy making use of single‐cell analysis, a comprehensive review of the recent preclinical and clinical findings in CAR T cell therapy was needed. Here, we categorized and summarized the key points of the studies in which single‐cell analysis provided insights into the genomics, epigenomics, transcriptomics and proteomics as well as their respective multi‐omics of CAR T cell therapy.
Applying autism screening research to real‐world scenarios: a commentary on Sheldrick et al. (2023)
Authors: Wallis Kate E. , Usher Rosalind
Published: November 2023

Early identification of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) continues to be a challenge despite universal screening efforts. One explanation is that screening tools have lower sensitivity and specificity than initial studies report when accounting for incomplete follow‐up for all children screened. Sheldrick and colleagues used statistical modeling to demonstrate the impact on sensitivity and specificity when assumptions about the diagnostic outcome of children who do not pursue diagnostic evaluation are altered. Crucially, the work of Sheldrick et al. serves as a reminder that autism screening in primary care is just one component of the clinical assessment and should not be conflated with a diagnostic evaluation. Thus, lack of follow‐up after a positive screen is a feature, not only a bug when using a screen in a clinical setting. Engaging families in shared decision‐making around screening may help encourage follow‐up, and thus, screening tool psychometric performance.
Minimally invasive CAD/CAM lithium disilicate partial‐coverage restorations show superior in‐vitro fatigue performance than single crowns
Authors: Spitznagel F. A. , Prott L. S. , Hoppe J. S. , Manitckaia T. , Blatz M. B. , Zhang Y. , Langner R. , Gierthmuehlen P. C.
Published: November 2023

Objective

To analyze the influence of restoration design (partial‐coverage restoration vs. crown) and ceramic layer thickness on the performance and failure loads of CAD/CAM‐fabricated lithium disilicate (LDS) reconstructions on molars after fatigue.

Materials and Methods

Seventy‐two posterior monolithic CAD/CAM‐fabricated LDS restorations (IPS e.max CAD, Ivoclar Vivadent) with different occlusal/buccal ceramic layer thicknesses (1.5/0.8, 1.0/0.6, and 0.5/0.4 mm) and restoration designs (PCR: non‐retentive full‐veneer/partial‐coverage restoration, C: crown,) were investigated and divided into six groups (n = 12, test: PCR‐1.5, PCR‐1.0, PCR‐0.5; control: C‐1.5, C‐1.0, C‐0.5). LDS restorations were adhesively bonded (Variolink Esthetic DC, Ivoclar Vivadent) to dentin‐analogue composite dies (Z100, 3M ESPE). All specimens were subjected to thermomechanical loading (1.2 million cycles, 49 N, 1.6 Hz, 5–55°C) and exposed to single load to failure testing. Failure analysis was performed with light and scanning electron microscopies. Data were statistically analyzed using ANOVA, Tukey‐Test, and t‐test (p < 0.05).

Results

Eight crown samples (C‐0.5) and one PCR specimen (PCR‐0.5) revealed cracks after fatigue, resulting in an overall success rate of 87.5% (crowns: 75%, PCRs: 96.88%). Direct comparisons of PCRs versus crowns for thicknesses of 0.5 mm (p < 0.001) and 1.0 mm (p = 0.004) were significant and in favor of PCRs. Minimally invasive PCRs (0.5 and 1.0 mm) outperformed crowns with the identical ceramic thickness. No difference was detected (p = 0.276) between thickness 1.5 mm PCRs and crowns.

Conclusions

Minimally invasive monolithic CAD/CAM‐fabricated posterior LDS PCRs (0.5 and 1.0 mm) resulted in superior failure load values compared to minimally invasive crowns. Minimally invasive crowns (0.5 mm) are prone to cracks after fatigue.

Clinical Significance

Minimally invasive CAD/CAM‐fabricated LDS PCR restorations with a non‐retentive preparation design should be considered over single crowns for molar rehabilitation.