bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single-cell impedance cytometry of anticancer drug-treated tumor cells exhibiting mitotic arrest state to apoptosis using low-cost silver-PDMS microelectrodes†
Authors: Yang Xinlong , Liang Ziheng , Luo Yuan , Yuan Xueyuan , Cai Yao , Yu Duli , Xing Xiaoxing
Published: October 2023

Chemotherapeutic drugs such as paclitaxel and vinblastine interact with the microtubules, and thus induce complex cell states of mitosis arrest at the G2/M phase followed by apoptosis dependent on drug exposure time and concentration. Microfluidic impedance cytometry (MIC) as a label-free and high-throughput technology for single-cell analysis, has been applied for viability assay of cancer cells post drug exposure at fixed time and dosage, yet verification of this technique for varied tumor cell states after anticancer drug treatment remains vacant. Here we present a novel MIC device and for the first time perform impedance cytometry on carcinoma cells exhibiting progressive states of G2/M arrest followed by apoptosis related to drug concentration and exposure time, after treatments by paclitaxel and vinblastine, respectively. Our results from impedance cytometry reveal increased amplitude and negative phase shift at low frequency, as well as higher opacity for the Hela cells under G2/M mitotic arrest compared to the untreated cells. The cells under apoptosis, on the other hand, exhibit opposite changes in these electrical parameters. Therefore, the impedance features differentiate the Hela cells under progressive states post anticancer drug treatment. We also demonstrate that vinblastine poses a more potent drug effect than paclitaxel especially at low concentrations. Our device is fabricated with a unique sacrificial layer-free soft lithography process as compared to the existing MIC device, which gives rise to readily aligned parallel microelectrodes made of silver-PDMS embedded in PDMS channel sidewalls with one molding step. Our results uncover the potential of the MIC device, with a fairly simple and low-cost fabrication process, for cellular state screening in anticancer drug therapy.
Ancestral genetic components are consistently associated with the complex trait landscape in European biobanks
Authors: Pankratov Vasili , Mezzavilla Massimo , Aneli Serena , Fusco Daniela , Wilson James F , Metspalu Mait , Provero Paolo , Pagani Luca , Marnetto Davide
Published: October 2023

The genetic structure in Europe was mostly shaped by admixture between the Western Hunter-Gatherer, Anatolian Neolithic and Steppe’s Yamnaya ancestral components. Such structure is regarded as a confounder in GWAS and follow-up studies, and gold-standard methods exist to correct for it. However, it is still poorly understood to which extent these ancestral components contribute to complex trait variation in present-day Europe.

In this work we harness the UK Biobank to address this question. By extensive demographic simulations and incorporating previous results obtained using the Estonian Biobank, we carefully evaluate the significance and scope of our findings.

Heart rate, platelet count, monocyte percentage and many other traits show stratification similar to height and pigmentation traits, likely targets of selection and divergence across ancestral groups. The consistency of our results across biobanks indicates that these ancestry-specific genetic predispositions act as a source of variability and as potential confounders in Europe as a whole.
A genome-wide CRISPR screen supported by human genetics identifies theTNRC18gene locus as a novel regulator of inflammatory signaling
Authors: Rahimov Fedik , Ghosh Sujana , Petiwala Sakina , Schmidt Mary , Nyamugenda Eugene , Tam Jason , Verduzco Daniel , Singh Sanjana , Avram Victor , Modi Apexa , Espinoza Celso A. , Lu Charles , Wang Jing , Keller Ashleigh , Macoritto Michael , Mahi Naim Al , Anton Tifani , Chung Namjin , Flister Michael J. , Katlinski Kanstantsin V. , Biswas Amlan , den Hollander Anneke I. , Waring Jeffrey F. , Stender Joshua D.
Published: October 2023

Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) is dysregulated in many chronic inflammatory diseases, yet the genetic factors influencing IL-1β production and signaling remain largely unknown. Myeloid-derived cells are the primary producers of IL-1β, prompting a genome-wide CRISPR knockout screen in the human myeloid-derived U937 cell model, treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to mimic inflammatory conditions, and sorted for high and low intracellular IL-1β levels. A total of 295 genes were identified as regulators of IL-1β production, including known mediators, such as TLR4, JAK-STAT, IL-10 receptor, and the Cullin ring finger ligase complex. Notably, 57 out of the 295 genes overlapped with loci associated with human inflammatory diseases, including theTNRC18gene on chromosome 7p22.1 associated with multiple diseases in the Finnish population. U937 cells engineered with the homozygous rs748670681 risk allele associated with inflammatory bowel disease, demonstrated decreased levels of mRNA forTNRC18and an adjacent geneWIPI2, reduction in LPS-dependent gene activation and cytokine production, but elevation of interferon-responsive gene programs. Transcriptomic profiles for individual knockouts ofTNRC18andWIPI2attributed the loss of LPS-dependent signaling primarily toTNRC18while the exacerbation of interferon signaling is a hallmark of loss ofWIPI2. Collectively, these findings delineate the global regulatory mechanisms of IL-1β production and provide molecular insights to the role of the rs748670681 variant as a pleiotropic risk factor for inflammatory diseases.
Photoreceptor calyceal processes accompany the developing outer segment, adopting a stable length despite a dynamic core
Authors: Sharkova Maria , Aparicio Gonzalo , Mouzaaber Constantin , Zolessi Flavio R , Hocking Jennifer C
Published: October 2023

Vertebrate photoreceptors detect light through a large cilium-based outer segment, which is filled with photopigment-laden membranous discs. Surrounding the base of the outer segment are microvilli-like calyceal processes (CPs). While CP disruption has been associated with altered outer segment morphology and photoreceptor degeneration, the role of the processes remains elusive. Here, we used zebrafish as a model to characterize CPs. We quantified CP parameters and report a strong disparity in outer segment coverage between photoreceptor subtypes. CP length is stable across light and dark conditions, while heat shock inducible expression of tagged actin revealed rapid turnover of the CP actin core. Detailed imaging of the embryonic retina uncovered substantial remodeling of the developing photoreceptor apical surface, including a transition from dynamic tangential processes to vertically-oriented CPs immediately prior to outer segment formation. Remarkably, we also found a direct connection between apical extensions of the Müller glia and retinal pigment epithelium, arranged as bundles around the ultraviolet sensitive cones. In summary, our data characterize the structure, development, and surrounding environment of photoreceptor microvilli in the zebrafish retina.
Bioinformatic Analysis of Defective Viral Genomes in SARS-CoV-2 and Its Impact on Population Infection Characteristics
Authors: Xu Zhaobin , Peng Qingzhi , Song Jian , Zhang Hongmei , Wei Dongqing , Demongeot Jacques
Published: October 2023

DVGs (Defective Viral Genomes) and SIP (Semi-Infectious Particle) are commonly present in RNA virus infections. In this study, we analyzed high-throughput sequencing data and found that DVGs or SIPs are also widely present in SARS-CoV-2. Comparison of SARS-CoV-2 with various DNA viruses revealed that the SARS-CoV-2 genome is more susceptible to damage and has greater sequencing sample heterogeneity. Variability analysis at the whole-genome sequencing depth showed a higher coefficient of variation for SARS-CoV-2, and DVG analysis indicated a high proportion of splicing sites, suggesting significant genome heterogeneity and implying that most virus particles assembled are enveloped with incomplete RNA sequences. We further analyzed the characteristics of different strains in terms of sequencing depth and DVG content differences and found that as the virus evolves, the proportion of intact genomes in virus particles increases, which can be significantly reflected in third-generation sequencing data, while the proportion of DVG gradually decreases. Specifically, the proportion of intact genome of Omicron was greater than that of Delta and Alpha strains. This can well explain why Omicron strain is more infectious than Delta and Alpha strains. We also speculate that this improvement in completeness is due to the enhancement of virus assembly ability, as the Omicron strain can quickly realize the binding of RNA and capsid protein, thereby shortening the exposure time of exposed virus RNA in the host environment and greatly reducing its degradation level. Finally, by using mathematical modeling, we simulated how DVG effects under different environmental factors affect the infection characteristics and evolution of the population. We can explain well why the severity of symptoms is closely related to the amount of virus invasion and why the same strain causes huge differences in population infection characteristics under different environmental conditions. Our study provides a new approach for future virus research and vaccine development.
Poly[[(μ3-adamantane-1,3-diacetato)[μ-N-(pyridin-3-yl)isonicotinamide]nickel(II)] monohydrate], a layered coordination polymer with triangular (3,6) topology
Authors: Travis Jamelah Z. , LaDuca Robert L.
Published: October 2023

The title compound, {[Ni(C14H18O4)(C11H9N3O)]·H2O}
n
, contains octahedrally coordinated NiII ions ligated by 1,3-adamantanediacetato (ada) ligands and N-(pyridin-3-yl)isonicotinamide (3-pina) ligands, to form coordination polymer layers with a triangular (3,6) grid topology based on [Ni2(OCO)2] dimeric units. The diperiodic layer motifs stack in an ABAB pattern mediated by C—H...O supramolecular interactions between ada ligands and water molecules of crystallization to form the full triperiodic crystal structure of the title compound.
Role of spirulina microalgae blends in the micro gas turbine on engine performance and emission characteristics
Authors: R. Gokulnath , Devi Booma
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Diesel has traditionally been considered the best-suited and most widely used fuel in various sectors, including manufacturing industries, power production, automobiles and transportation. However, with the ongoing crisis of fossil fuel inadequacy, the search for alternative fuels and their application in these sectors has become increasingly important. One particularly interesting and beneficial alternative fuel is biodiesel derived from bio sources.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research, an attempt was made to use biodiesel in an unconventional micro gas turbine engine. It will remove the concentric use of diesel engines for power production by improving fuel efficiency as well as increasing the power production rate. Before the fuel is used enormously, it has to be checked in many ways such as performance, emission and combustion analysis experimentally.

Findings

In this paper, a detailed experimental study was made for the use of Spirulina microalgae biodiesel in a micro gas turbine. A small-scale setup with the primary micro gas turbine and secondary instruments such as a data acquisition system and AVL gas analyser. The reason for selecting the third-generation microalgae is due to its high lipid and biodiesel production rate. For the conduction of experimental tests, certain conditions were followed in addition that the engine rotating rpm was varied from 4,000, 5,000 and 6,000 rpm. The favourable and predicted results were obtained with the use of microalgae biodiesel.

Originality/value

The performance and combustion results were not exactly equal or greater for biodiesel blends but close to the values of pure diesel; however, the reduction in the emission of CO was at the appreciable level for the used spirulina microalgae biodiesel. The emission of nitrogen oxides and carbon dioxide was a little higher than the use of pure diesel. This experimental analysis results proved that the use of spirulina microalgae biodiesel is both economical and effective replacement for fossil fuel.
A critical review of cost-benefit analysis for business software investments
Authors: Sakthivel Sachidanandam
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Cost-benefit (C/B) analysis helps to determine the economic feasibility of business software investments. Research literature and published practices do not recognize substantial software maintenance costs in C/B analysis. Current analyses emphasize the benefits of an initial investment but do not consider the recurring benefits of each enhancement during the software lifecycle. Such analyses could lead to incorrect investment decisions and lost business opportunities. This article aims to review current research on software lifecycle costs and develop a theoretically sound C/B analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

This article reviews current C/B analyses and discusses their shortcomings in treating the significant recurring maintenance costs. It analyzes the findings of various studies on software maintenance and synthesizes these findings to identify the nature of various maintenance costs and their benefits. Based on the synthesis, it theorizes various cost and benefit elements for inclusion in a revised C/B analysis.

Findings

This article identifies each recurring maintenance cost relevant to C/B analysis. It also identifies recurring benefits from each enhancement that hitherto have been omitted. Finally, this article discusses how these costs and benefits should be treated in the revised C/Bs analysis.

Research limitations/implications

This is a conceptual paper proposing a new C/B analysis and requires an empirical validation.

Practical implications

This article provides a revision of the C/B analysis that is long overdue. It will help to justify a software investment correctly, rank software projects that compete for limited funds and help create a sound software project portfolio. Since 20% of software products may incur 80% of software investment, this analysis will help to make correct software investments and avoid lost business opportunities. This article also describes a practical method to use the revised C/B analysis.

Originality/value

This article provides a revision of the C/B analysis that is long overdue. It will help to justify a software investment correctly, rank software projects that compete for limited funds and help create a sound software project portfolio. Since 20% of software products may incur 80% of software investment, this analysis will help to make correct software investments and avoid lost business opportunities. This article also describes a practical method to use the revised C/B analysis.
The impacts of role commitment and pay-for-performance on proactive career behavior: an interactionist perspective
Authors: Chen Hui , Liu Jie , Wang Yu , Yang Ning , Wang Xiao-Hua (Frank)
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Proactive career behavior (PCB) is an effective form of career self-management that has positive impacts on individual career development and career success, and therefore, the purpose of this paper is to explore the driving factors of PCB.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on the interactionist perspective and situational strength theory, this study examined the independent and joint effects of role commitment and pay-for-performance (PFP) on employees' PCB based on data collected from 298 Chinese private enterprise employees at two time points.

Findings

The authors found that occupational role commitment (ORC), parental role commitment (PRC) and PFP were positively related to PCB. Furthermore, PFP moderated the relationship between ORC/PRC and PCB, such that the two relationships were stronger when PFP was low.

Originality/value

Drawing on the interactionist perspective, the authors contribute to the literature on PCB by revealing novel antecedents of PCB: ORC, PRC and PFP. The authors also contribute to the situational strength theory by examining how role commitment and PFP may interact to impact employees' PCB. Finally, the authors are among the first to consider the effects of role commitment on individual career behaviors, thus extending the nomological network of role commitment.
The moderating effects of positive thinking on the relationship between job stress and turnover intention
Authors: Na-Nan Khahan
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to test the moderating effects of positive thinking (PT) on the relationship between job stress (JS) and turnover intention (TI).

Design/methodology/approach

The study was based on a questionnaire distributed among 275 employees at a convenience store business. The validity and reliability of the questionnaire were tested before the data were collected, and hierarchical regression analysis was used to test the moderating effects.

Findings

JS had negative effects on employee TI with statistical significance, while PT functioned to moderate the relationship between JS and employee TI with statistical significance.

Research limitations/implications

The moderating effects of PT among employees in the convenience store business were explained clearly. This research supports and expands the broaden-and-build theory in explaining the effects of PT or attitudes to help employees cope with problems and obstacles, create new things and perceive problems as challenges to be overcome.

Practical implications

Managers with an awareness of PT can help employees lower JS, increase organizational commitment and improve employees' PT to reduce the turnover rate.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature about organizational behavior and human resource management in dealing with job turnover by clarifying the moderating effects of PT on the relationship between JS and TI.
Does control of corruption play its role in enhancing the innovation? Empirical evidence from Asian region
Authors: Farooq Umar , Tabash Mosab I. , Hamouri Basem , Daniel Linda Nalini
Published: October 2023

Purpose

In the current competitive era of industrialization, a significant level of innovation is necessary to meet the growing competition. There are many economic forces that determine the pace of innovation within a country. Among others, this study aims to focus on exploring the relevant role of corruption control (CC) in determining the innovation level.

Design/methodology/approach

For empirical analysis, the authors sample the 24 years of data (1996–2019) of Asian economies and use the fully modified ordinary least square (OLS) and dynamic OLS models to check the regression among variables. The selection of both techniques is based upon the empirical suggestions offered by unit root testing and the Johansen cointegration test.

Findings

The empirical findings infer the positive and statistically significant role of CC in boosting innovation. Strengthening the corruption-free environment encourages innovation activities within the country. In addition, foreign direct investment has a negative relationship with CC while financial development, economic growth, export volume and government subsidies positively determine the innovation level.

Practical implications

Based on empirical analysis, it is suggested that the policy officials should do more focus on CC to enhance the competitiveness of the country through more innovation.

Originality/value

The empirical analysis robust the findings of existing literature in an alternative data set and offers innovative views regarding the role of other factors in boosting the innovation level.
Investigating the effectiveness of tourism pricing strategies in mitigating post-COVID-19 economic challenges: an attribution theory perspective
Authors: Hassan Thowayeb , Saleh Mahmoud Ibraheam
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The study aims to investigate how attribution theory in the context of pricing strategies can help tourism destinations recover from the negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted a qualitative research design using semi-structured interviews to address the lack of research in this area. Interview participants included tourists and tourism customers. The interview responses were then analyzed using “Nvivo” qualitative data analysis software to identify critical themes regarding applying attribution theory to pricing strategies.

Findings

The findings revealed that tourists prefer bundled and hedonic pricing strategies that integrate the service providers' pricing strategies' locus of control, stability and controllability. Tourists do not favor dual pricing strategies unless the reasons for price controllability or stability are justified. Tourists also prefer the controllable pay-what-you-want pricing strategy. Although tourists accept dynamic pricing, certain conditions related to price locus, stability and controllability must be met.

Practical implications

The research shows tourists prefer pricing strategies that give them control and flexibility, like bundled packages and pay-what-you-want models. Service providers should integrate pricing strategies that transparent costs and justify price fluctuations. While dynamic pricing is accepted if necessitated by external factors, tourists are wary of unnecessary price changes. Providers can build trust and satisfaction by explaining pricing rationale and offering controllable options like bundles.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the theory by applying attribution theory to the context of pricing strategies in tourism. It also provides innovative recommendations for tourism managers on how to use pricing strategies after the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings offer new insights that extend beyond previous research.
Learning to co-teach: understanding the co- in a mentored co-teaching activity
Authors: Chang Sharon , Goodwin A. Lin
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Co-teaching is a foundational mentoring model used in teacher residency programs in urban classrooms throughout the United States of America. Beyond the basic understanding of co-teaching in categorizing classroom models, the purpose of this qualitative case study is to investigate the dialectical tensions manifested in mentored co-teaching activities through the lens of cultural-historical activity theory (CHAT).

Design/methodology/approach

Designed as a qualitative case study of 17 pairs of teaching-residents and mentor-teachers, the authors used thematic analysis to scrutinize archival interview data in an urban teacher residency program located in the largest megalopolis of the USA Northeast. The authors used CHAT-based concept coding to analyze the interview narratives from participants across different secondary school placements as they reflected on their co-teaching philosophy and the relationships they built.

Findings

The authors found that for teaching-residents and mentor-teachers to co-develop as co-teachers, they jointly must learn to resolve the dialectical tensions of unbalanced classroom ownership vs added co-working responsibilities, breaking from routine so that a partnership can grow. Furthermore, the findings suggest that the prefix co- should be understood as (1) shifts in thinking that transcend the status quo and (2) the orchestration of human capital to change norms.

Originality/value

This new understanding of the prefix co- allows teacher education programs to better mediate the dialectical tensions experienced by co-teachers in a mentored co-teaching activity, from individual teacher learning (e.g. a pair/dyad comprising one teaching-resident and one mentor-teacher) to collective co-learning across activity systems (e.g. partnership-based teacher education).
Factors associated with millennial nurses’ intention to pursue formal leadership roles: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Labrague Leodoro J. , Al Sabei Sulaiman , Al Rawajfah Omar , Burney Ikram Ali , Abu AlRub Raeda
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine the level of intention to pursue formal nursing leadership roles among millennial nurses and to identify the different factors that may play a role in their intentions to pursue such roles.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a multi-center, cross-sectional research design. Registered nurses born between 1980 and 2000 (n = 1,377) who worked in 23 acute care hospitals in Oman were included in this study. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression. Data were collected between July 2019 and January 2020.

Findings

Nearly 70% of millennial nurses researched their intention for career advancement to assume nursing leadership responsibility. Factors associated with nurses’ intention to pursue formal nursing leadership roles were the type of nursing degree held (having a bachelor of science in nursing degree), type of hospital facility affiliation (teaching hospital), previous leadership experience, structural empowerment (access to support, opportunity and resources), work satisfaction and job burnout.

Originality/value

Millennial nurses, who represent the largest segment of the nursing workforce, have begun assuming nursing management and leadership roles; however, little is known about the factors affecting their intentions to pursue these roles. The findings of this study revealed different factors (both modifiable and nonmodifiable) influencing millennial nurses’ intentions to pursue formal leadership roles.
Trauma-informed librarianship: an exploratory literature review of trauma-informed approaches in school, academic and public libraries
Authors: Founds Stephanie D.
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The goal of this review is to conduct an exploratory literature review on trauma-informed approaches in libraries to understand how librarians are discussing trauma-informed approaches and their integration into professional practice.

Design/methodology/approach

The author reviewed materials indexed in selected EBSCOHost databases. Included materials from selected EBSCOHost databases were available to the author in full text, in the English language and about trauma-informed approaches in libraries. Items were excluded from this review if they were a review of another work, a thesis or dissertation, or letters to or from the editor.

Findings

Twenty-five publications were included in this analysis. Publications included described approaches in school libraries, academic libraries and public libraries. Key topics are racial trauma-informed practices, trauma-informed teaching, resisting re-traumatization, social work and the effects of workplace trauma on the library workforce.

Practical implications

Trauma-informed approaches are gaining popularity in a variety of disciplines as the world copes with the turbulent events of recent years. The practical implications of this review are to explore the emergence of trauma-informed approaches in libraries to understand the current publishing landscape on this topic.

Originality/value

While librarians are writing about this approach and some are incorporating it into their practice, an analysis in the form of an exploratory literature review to summarize this work has not been done. Understanding how libraries are incorporating this trauma-awareness and trauma-informed principles into the work is crucial for identifying the future approach to library services.
Investigating the emerging and future trends of knowledge management in small and medium enterprises: a science mapping approach
Authors: Fauzi Muhammad Ashraf , Saad Zuria Akmal , Ahmad Mohd Hanafiah , Fauzi Muhammad Zorif , Ahmad Md Faizal
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the knowledge structure of knowledge management (KM) applications within small and medium enterprises (SMEs). In pursuit of excellence, SMEs must adopt KM like large corporations, even with limited resources.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a bibliometric approach, this study evaluates current themes based on bibliographic coupling analysis and predicts future trends based on coword analysis. A total of 726 documents and 2,658 keywords were derived from the Web of Science database.

Findings

Findings show four clusters in bibliographic coupling and three in coword analysis. A common theme discovered converged on digital technology to ensure SMEs follow current market trends.

Research limitations/implications

Advanced application of Industry 4.0 requires digital transformation for SMEs’ pursuit of excellence. Implications include sustaining SMEs through a considerable KM system integrated with digital technology for sustainable business activities.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is among the first to provide a science mapping analysis on KM in SMEs by applying a bibliometric analysis.
Enhancing apathy treatment in Jordanian people living with dementia residing in care homes using virtual reality reminiscence therapy
Authors: Abdalrahim Asem , Suliman Mohammad , ALBashtawy Mohammed , Alkhawaldeh Abdullah , Ta'an Wafa'a
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to explore examine the therapeutic potential of head-mounted display (HMD)-based Virtual Reality Relaxation Therapy (VRRT) sessions for people individuals with dementia in Jordan.

Design/methodology/approach

This cross-sectional survey recruited 75 dementia-diagnosed elderly individuals from three Jordanian care homes. A VRRT intervention comprising 10 tailored RT sessions held over the course of five weeks was administered to the participants. Apathy, cognitive performance, anxiety and depression were evaluated before and after the intervention to determine any changes. The Person-Environment Apathy Rating Scale's (PEARS) Arabic translation's validity and reliability were also evaluated.

Findings

The VRRT intervention yielded noteworthy results in reducing apathy, as indicated by a substantial decrease in PEARS scores from 17.20 to 11.15. The findings of the study revealed that the participants demonstrated enhanced cognitive abilities, as evidenced by a significant rise in their Saint Louis University Mental Status ratings, which increased from 15.11 to 19.70. The levels of anxiety and depression exhibited a significant decrease subsequent to the implementation of VRRT, with anxiety levels decreasing from 13.66 to 8.23 and depression levels decreasing from 13.62 to 9.33. Furthermore, a notable 70% of participants demonstrated statistically significant decreases in indifference.

Practical implications

This study makes a significant contribution to the advancement of innovative treatment approaches aimed at addressing the needs of the aging population, hence enhancing health outcomes and raising the quality of care in Jordan.

Originality/value

The effectiveness of VRRT in reducing apathy among Jordanian senior citizens residing in nursing homes has not yet been fully investigated. Therefore, this paper seeks to assess the effectiveness of HMD-based VRRT by conducting pre- and post-intervention evaluations. This research aims to provide valuable insights into the applicability and significance of VRRT in the Jordanian context, contributing to the development of culturally appropriate and cutting-edge therapeutic interventions for older individuals in Jordan. Through this study, the authors aim to promote improved health and elevated standards of care for this population.
Effectiveness of occupational therapy interventions on function and occupational performance among adults with conditions of the hand, wrist, and forearm: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Sheerin Margo , O'Riordan Cliona , Conneely Mairead , Carey Leonora , Ryan Damien , Galvin Rose , Morrissey Ann‐Marie
Published: October 2023

Introduction

This systematic review and meta‐analysis examines the effectiveness of occupational therapy interventions for adults with conservatively managed conditions of the hand, wrist, and forearm.

Methods

Searches were carried out in CINAHL, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, MEDLINE (OVID), EMBASE, and PubMed. Grey literature was searched for via Google Scholar. A systematic literature search was undertaken for randomised studies that examined occupational therapy interventions for treatment of hand, wrist, and forearm conditions. The primary outcome was function, with secondary outcomes of occupational performance, satisfaction with occupational performance, pain, and quality of life. Meta‐analyses were completed, and GRADE was used to determine the certainty of evidence.

Results

Twelve studies with 1429 participants were identified. Interventions included combinations of occupation‐based intervention, assistive device provision, education, orthosis provision, and exercise programmes for arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and fracture and tendon injuries of the hand, wrist, and forearm. Occupational therapy resulted in an improvement of function (REM, SMD −0.27, 95% CI −0.00 to −0.53, I2 = 69%, low certainty evidence) (p = 0.05), occupational performance (REM, SMD 0.83, 95% CI 1.61–0.06, I2 = 91%, low certainty evidence) (p = 0.04), satisfaction with occupational performance (REM, SMD 0.74, 95% CI 1.42–0.05, I2 = 89%, low certainty evidence) (p = 0.03), and pain reduction (FEM, MD −1.35, 95% CI −0.84 to −1.86, I2 = 0%, moderate certainty evidence) (p < 0.00001).

Conclusion

Further high‐quality research is recommended to determine the effects of occupational therapy interventions on specific upper limb conditions, inclusive of a broader range of clinical and patient reported outcome measures.
Queer Ecologies and Anti-Colonial Abundance in Lionel Wendt's Ceylon
Authors: Coomasaru Edwin
Published: October 2023

Published posthumously in 1950, queer Sri Lankan photographer Lionel Wendt's photobook Ceylon crafted an aesthetic of queer environmental abundance. His photographs, ranging from documentary-style to surrealist-inspired images, were taken between 1933 and 1944, shaped by and contributing to rising waves of national consciousness and anti-colonial movements ahead of the island's independence in 1948. British rule since 1815 had destroyed common land and outlawed homosexuality for being ‘against the order of nature’. Wendt sought to confront and challenge colonial control over both ecology and sexuality, imagining alternative possibilities through both experimental and social realist photography. Other queer representations of the island (by Bevis Bawa, Ernst Haeckel and Edward Carpenter) are considered alongside the photographer's collaboration with queer, anti-imperialist filmmaker Basil Wright. Drawing on a queer ecological methodology and decolonial theory, this essay argues that Ceylon celebrated a queer environmental aesthetic of abundance by picturing Sri Lankan sexuality and landscapes as unbounded by colonial rule.
Decision‐making as discovery: Vetting clinical research in a leading precision oncology service
Authors: Cambrosio Alberto , Campbell Jonah , Drilon Alexander E. , Keating Peter , Polk Jess B.
Published: October 2023

Based on fieldwork carried out at the Early Drug Development Service of a world‐leading cancer institution, our study sheds lights on decision‐making processes at the stage where decisions are made about which clinical trial to pursue and thus which experimental drugs will feed the growing pipeline of molecularly guided therapies and therapeutic strategies available to treating physicians. The paper shows how such collective decision‐making practices by a translational research unit employ formal tools and ad hoc valuation strategies that interweave technical‐scientific matters of concern with patient‐oriented clinical ones, as part of the institutional assetization of biomedical knowledge production. In the process, decision‐making practices in part define the conditions of possibility for the provision of care in what is increasingly becoming a ‘clinic of variants.’ They do so by reconfiguring on an evolving basis the socio‐material ecosystem through which precision oncology is enacted as a rapidly evolving assemblage of patients, physicians, research and support staff, protocols, molecular markers, drugs and administrative components.
Weathering the storm: A case study of organizational culture and effectiveness in times of disruptive jolts and crisis
Authors: Mokhtarifar Rasool , Zandi Farzad , Nazarian Alireza
Published: October 2023

A crisis stems from an unexpected negative change in the environment, threatening the high‐priority values of the organization. As a crisis, the COVID‐19 pandemic jolted businesses worldwide, necessitating an investigation into the aspects of such an unsolicited change in the culture and effectiveness of organizations. With this aim, this research is based on a two‐step explanatory case study of a manufacturing firm. In the first step, to measure the change in the OC, a paired‐sample test was conducted using the Denison organizational culture survey model. Next, a qualitative inquiry was carried out, and the data were analysed through theme analysis. The results show significant changes in all 4 traits, including strategic direction and intent, vision and agreement, explained by the 12 qualitative themes. Ultimately, this study answers the long‐overlooked impact of a jolt, inducing a crisis, on the organizational culture. It sheds light on the importance of clarity of vision, core values and trust during a crisis.
Financing UK democracy: a stocktake of 20 years of political donations disclosure
Authors: Draca Mirko , Green Colin , Homroy Swarnodeep
Published: October 2023

Political donations in the UK have been subject to comprehensive disclosure since 2001. We study the data produced as part of this disclosure policy to evaluate the role of private and public political finance over time. Total political donations have grown by nearly 250 per cent since 2001, reaching over £100 million in real terms for the first time in 2019. This increase has been driven by donations from private individuals, who now account for approximately 60 per cent of donations in election years compared to 40–50 per cent up to the late 2010s. Furthermore, ‘super‐donors’ (those contributing more than £100,000) have been a prominent driver of the rise, increasing their own share from approximately 31 per cent in 2017 to 45 per cent in 2019. We also show that private donations to the Labour Party fell sharply in the final stages of Jeremy Corbyn's leadership. These trends have benefited the Conservative Party, leading to a historic donation gap between the two main parties emerging circa 2019. We calculate that this gap between parties now stands at approximately £27 million compared to a historic average of £8–£10 million. This gap remains even after considering publicly funded ‘Short’ money provided to the opposition, which aims to increase competitive balance in the UK's democratic system.
Identification of a coagulation‐related signature correlated with immune infiltration and their prognostic implications in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Yang Siqian , Chen Shiqi , Zhao Yue , Wu Tao , Wang Yuquan , Li Tingting , Fu Liwan , Ye Ting , Hu Yue‐Qing , Chen Haiquan
Published: October 2023

Background

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is a fatal form of lung cancer with a poor prognosis. Coagulation system had been confirmed closely related to tumor progression and the hypercoagulable state encouraged the immune infiltration and development of tumor cells, leading to a poor prognosis in cancer patients. However, the use of the coagulation‐related genes (CRGs) for prognosis in LUAD has yet to be determined. In this study, we constructed an immune‐related signature (CRRS) and identified a potential coagulation‐related biomarker (P2RX1).

Methods

We obtained a total of 209 CRGs based on two coagulation‐related KEGG pathways, then developed the CRRS signature by using the TCGA‐LUAD RNA‐seq data via the procedure of LASSO‐Cox regression, stepwise‐Cox regression, univariate and multivariate Cox regression. Grouped by the CRRS, Kaplan–Meier survival curves and receiver operating characteristic curves were drawn for the training and validation sets, respectively. In addition, single‐sample gene set enrichment analysis was exploited to explore immune infiltration level. Moreover, immunophenotypes and immunotherapy grouped by CRRS were further analyzed.

Results

We developed an immune‐related signature (CRRS) composed of COL1A2, F2, PLAUR, C4BPA, and P2RX1 in LUAD. CRRS was an independent risk factor for overall survival and displayed stable and powerful performance. Additionally, CRRS possessed distinctly superior accuracy than traditional clinical variables and molecular features. Functional analysis indicated that the differentially high expressed genes in the low‐risk group significantly enriched in T cell and B cell receptor signaling pathways. The low‐risk group was sensitive to anti‐PD‐1/PD‐L1 immunotherapy and displayed abundant immune infiltration and immune checkpoint gene expression. Finally, we identified an independent prognostic gene P2RX1. Low expression of P2RX1 associated with poor overall survival and decreased immune infiltration.

Conclusions

Our study revealed a significant correlation between CRRS and immune infiltration. CRRS could serve as a promising tool to improve the clinical outcomes for individual LUAD patients.
Reducing rate of total colectomies for ulcerative colitis but higher morbidity in the biologic era: an 18‐year linked data study from New South Wales Australia
Authors: Giddings Hugh L. , Ng Kheng‐Seong , Solomon Michael J. , Steffens Daniel , Van Buskirk Joe , Young Jane
Published: October 2023

Background

This study aims to investigate the trends in UC surgery in New South Wales (NSW) at a population level.

Methods

A retrospective data linkage study of the NSW population was performed. Patients of any age with a diagnosis of UC who underwent a total abdominal colectomy (TAC) ± proctectomy between Jul‐2001 and Jun‐2019 were included. The age adjusted population rate was calculated using Australian Bureau of Statistics data. Multivariable linear regression modelled the trend of TAC rates, and assessed the effect of infliximab (listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme for UC in Apr‐2014).

Results

A total of 1365 patients underwent a TAC ± proctectomy (mean age 47.0 years (±18.6), 59% Male). Controlling for differences between age groups, the annual rate of UC TACs decreased by 2.4% each year (95% CI 1.4%–3.4%) over the 18‐year period from 1.30/100000 (2002) to 0.84/100000 (2019). An additional incremental decrease in the rate of TACs was observed after 2014 (OR 0.83, 95% CI 0.69–1.00). There was no change in the proportion of TACs performed emergently over the study period (OR 1.02, 95% CI 0.998–1.04). The odds of experiencing any perioperative surgical complication (aOR 1.54, 95% CI 1.01–2.33, P = 0.043), and requiring ICU admission (aOR 1.85, 95% CI 1.24–2.76, P = 0.003) significantly increased in 2014–2019 compared to 2002–2007.

Conclusions

The rate of TACs for UC has declined over the past two decades. This rate decrease may have been further influenced by the introduction of biologics. Higher rates of complications and ICU admissions in the biologic era may indicate poorer patient physiological status at the time of surgery.
Prospective comparison of diagnostic tests for bile acid diarrhoea
Authors: Borup Christian , Vinter‐Jensen Lars , Jørgensen Søren Peter German , Wildt Signe , Graff Jesper , Gregersen Tine , Zaremba Anna , Andersen Trine Borup , Nøjgaard Camilla , Timm Hans Bording , Lamazière Antonin , Rainteau Dominique , Hansen Svend Høime , Rumessen Jüri Johannes , Munck Lars Kristian
Published: October 2023

Background

Bile acid diarrhoea is often missed because gold standard nuclear medicine tauroselcholic [75‐Se] acid (SeHCAT) testing has limited availability. Empirical treatment effect has unknown diagnostic performance, whereas plasma 7α‐hydroxy‐4‐cholesten‐3‐one (C4) is inexpensive but lacks sensitivity.

Aims

To determine diagnostic characteristics of empirical treatment and explore improvements in diagnostics with potential better availability than SeHCAT.

Methods

This diagnostic accuracy study was part of a randomised, placebo‐controlled trial of colesevelam. Consecutive patients with chronic diarrhoea attending SeHCAT had blood and stool sampled. Key thresholds were C4 > 46 ng/mL and SeHCAT retention ≤10%. A questionnaire recorded patient‐reported empirical treatment effect. We analysed receiver operating characteristics and explored machine learning applied logistic regression and decision tree modelling with internal validation.

Results

Ninety‐six (38%) of 251 patients had SeHCAT retention ≤10%. The effect of empirical treatment assessed with test results for bile acid studies blinded had 63% (95% confidence interval 44%–79%) sensitivity and 65% (47%–80%) specificity; C4 > 46 ng/mL had 47% (37%–57%) and 92% (87%–96%), respectively. A decision tree combining C4 ≥ 31 ng/mL with ≥1.1 daily watery stools (Bristol type 6 and 7) had 70% (51%–85%) sensitivity and 95% (83%–99%) specificity. The logistic regression model, including C4, the sum of measured stool bile acids and daily watery stools, had 77% (58%–90%) sensitivity and 93% (80%–98%) specificity.

Conclusions

Diagnosis of bile acid diarrhoea using empirical treatment was inadequate. Exploration suggested considerable improvements in the sensitivity of C4‐based testing, offering potential widely available diagnostics. Further validation is warranted. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03876717.
Call to action: Harmonization of pharmacovigilance regulations for post‐marketing pregnancy and breastfeeding safety studies
Authors: Alexe Amalia , Eisele Osa , Fernandes Maria Fernanda Scantamburlo , Garg Anju , Kovacs Birgit , Wurst Keele , Balramsingh‐Harry Leesha , Abramova Nadezda , Zheteyeva Yenlik , Lewis David
Published: October 2023

Globally, more than 200 million women become pregnant each year, most of whom receive medications despite limited information on their safe use during pregnancy. The paucity of drug safety data on pregnant and breastfeeding women stems from the routine exclusion of this population from clinical trials due to scientific, ethical, regulatory and legal concerns. Consequently, at the time of initial drug approval, there may be scant safety data to inform the drug benefit‐risk balance to the mother, foetus or infant. Although momentum is growing to include this underrepresented population in clinical trials, most information on drug exposure outcomes comes from data collected in the postmarketing setting. Regulatory guidance and legislation on medication use in pregnancy and breastfeeding were reviewed globally by the TransCelerate IGR PV Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Team. The International Conference of Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH) standards and Council for International Organizations of Medical Sciences guidelines served as benchmarks for national safety regulations and guidance. The landscape assessment identified a lack of harmonization of global regulations on research in pregnant and breastfeeding women and a lack of specific regulations on this topic in the majority of the territories included in the assessment. This article focuses on the ambiguities and lack of harmonization in global regulations on postmarketing pregnancy and breastfeeding safety studies. There is currently no ICH standard to guide these types of safety studies and, in most regions reviewed, there are no clear regulations or guidance on when and how to conduct them. While a challenging undertaking, greater clarity and harmonization would facilitate more timely completion of postmarketing pregnancy safety studies that would ultimately generate the critical data needed to optimize benefit‐risk decisions for women who may conceive, as well as pregnant and breastfeeding women.