bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
P075 Strategies to improve sleep disorder diagnosis and management in the workplace: Perspectives of future shift workers living with sleep disorders
Authors: Brown B , Adams R , Wanstall S , Crowther M , Rawson G , Vakulin A , Rayner T , Eastwood P , Reynolds A
Published: October 2023

Shift workers with untreated sleep disorders face greater risk of negative health and safety outcomes. A population of particular concern is early-career shift workers, as 20% of young adults live with, largely undiagnosed, sleep disorders.

This study aimed to explore what structures and qualities future shift workers would value in prospective workplaces regarding sleep disorder support and management. The study aims to inform the development of interventions that are acceptable to workers.

Undergraduate paramedicine students were invited to complete an online survey and participate in a health services trial. The survey included validated sleep disorder screening questionnaires, with those identified at risk of a sleep disorder being offered further diagnostic testing or treatment. Participants completed a qualitative interview upon completion of the trial to discuss their experience and recommendations to improve screening and management of sleep disorders for shift workers.

Seventeen paramedicine students (mean age 22.5±8.3 years, 59% female) with an undiagnosed sleep disorder were recruited into the trial. Early thematic analysis identified two key themes: Increasing education and awareness of sleep disorders and supporting access to health services. Almost half of the participants discussed the importance of increased awareness of sleep and sleep disorders during pre-employment training and in the workplace. Participants also identified convenience as an important factor in facilitating the management of sleep disorders.

Facilitating access to sleep health services before workers are exposed to shift work and during early employment were suggested to improve sleep disorder identification and management for early-career shift workers.
P085 Early Childhood and Adolescent Predictors of Sleep Problems and Sleep Disorders in Adulthood: A Systematic Review of Longitudinal Observational Studies
Authors: Desalegn G , Rawson G , Melaku Y , Abitew Z , Eastwood P , Reynolds A
Published: October 2023

Background

By middle-age, 43% of Australian adults live with a clinical sleep disorder. Sleep disorders are linked to chronic illnesses which are a leading cause of premature mortality. The aim of this review was to identify, appraise and synthesise evidence from longitudinal observational studies to clarify childhood and adolescence risk factors associated with sleep disorders in adulthood.

Method

Four databases (Web of Science, Medline, SCOPUS, and PSYCINFO) were searched using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria for studies which were longitudinal, including at least one risk factor measured before 18 years of age, and an assessment of sleep problems or disorders in adulthood. This study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022301342).

Result

A total of 13,712 studies were screened, with 51 studies meeting criteria for data extraction. Sleep problems in childhood (n=9), childhood mental health (n=7), family environment (n= 2), adverse childhood experience (n=5), and lifestyle factors (n=9) were reported to be associated with sleep problems in adulthood. However most studies (n=30) only considered one or two measurements time points in childhood or adolescence as a predictor of adult sleep problems, and the age of sleep problem measurement in adulthood varied considerably (18 – 42 years). Further, heterogeneous sleep outcomes were reported across the studies, making quantitative synthesis of the data extremely challenging.

Discussion

Sleep problems in adulthood may be a result of cumulative risk factors in early childhood and adolescence. Consideration of childhood and adolescent trajectories are needed to better understand the biopsychosocial predictors of sleep problems in adulthood.
P090 How do Australian Shiftworkers and Non-Shiftworkers Prioritise Sleep, Diet, and Physical activity?
Authors: Gupta C , Duncan M , Ferguson S , Rebar A , Vandelanotte C , Sprajcer M , Khalesi S , Booker L , Rampling C , Rigney G , Vincent G
Published: October 2023

Background

Increasing engagement with sleep, diet, and physical activity (PA) is critical for populations who are at higher risk of poor health, such as shiftworkers. To increase engagement in sleep, diet and PA, it is critical to first understand which of these behaviours Australians currently prioritise and whether this prioritisation relates to actual behaviour. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate how Australians prioritise sleep, diet and PA.

Methods

A cohort of 1151 Australian adults (54% female, aged 18-65 years) completed a phone interview, and a cohort of 588 Australian shiftwork-only adults (76% female, 18-72 years) completed an online survey. All participants were asked which health behaviour (sleep, diet or PA) they prioritised. Behavioural correlates of sleep, diet, and PA, and questions on shiftwork experience were also collected.

Results

Diet was prioritised by the adults (49%), whereas sleep was prioritised by the shiftwork-only sample (68%). Multinomial logistic regressions revealed that adults who prioritised diet were significantly more likely to report less fast-food consumption (p<0.002) and more fruit consumption (p<0.002) compared to those that prioritised sleep. For the shiftwork-only sample, those with 16-30 years of shiftwork experience were significantly more likely to prioritise sleep compared to diet (p<0.05).

Conclusions

While prioritising diet was associated with healthier diet behaviour in Australian adults, overall, across both cohorts, behaviour prioritisation did not relate to actual behaviour. This suggests that there are factors other than behaviour prioritisation that influence engagement in healthy behaviours. These factors, such as workplace barriers, should be the focus of future research.
P095 Factors associated with sleep and mental health problems following athletic retirement
Authors: Montero A , Adams R , Baranoff J , Drummond M
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Despite growing research on the sleep and mental health of athletes, there is limited literature on their sleep health following retirement from sport. The aim of this study was to investigate potential factors associated with symptoms of sleep and mental health disorders in former athletes.

Methods

Former athletes (N=173, 50% women) who retired from any sport or competition level ≤20 years ago completed an online survey, consisting of the Athlete Sleep Screening Questionnaire (ASSQ), Personal Wellbeing Index-Adult (PWI-A), Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale-Revised (CESD-R), and Generalised Anxiety Disorder Assessment (GAD-7).

Results

Self-disclosed lifetime diagnosis of sleep disorder(s) and mental health disorder(s) was reported by 28.3% and 45.1% of former athletes, respectively. Binary logistic regressions showed that age (OR=0.95[95% CI:0.92, 0.99], p=.007) and gender (OR=2.28[95% CI:1.09, 4.79], p=.029) were associated with anxiety symptoms, with women and younger ex-athletes presenting greater risk. Increased BMI was associated with risk for sleep disordered breathing (OR=1.20[95% CI:1.10, 1.30], p<.001), sleep difficulty (OR=1.13[95% CI:1.03, 1.23], p=.008), and poor wellbeing (OR=0.91[95% CI:0.85, 0.98], p=.010). Those who placed a lower priority on sport whilst competing had greater risk for sleep disordered breathing (OR=2.00[95% CI:1.05, 3.80], p=.035). Recency of retirement was not associated with any measures.

Discussion

Findings indicate that former athletes are not exempt from poor sleep and mental ill-health. Results provide preliminary insight into predictive factors for difficulty transitioning out of sport. Future longitudinal research should consider the interplay between sport reintegration and the timing of sleep and mental health problems.
P100 Acceptance, Compliance and Efficacy of Oral Appliance Therapy by Patients Suffering from Sleep Apnoea.
Authors: Rather N , Shankumar R , Nizamuddin A , Mansfield D
Published: October 2023

Background

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) represents an established risk factor for several medical conditions. The evidence demonstrates that OSA can be effectively treated by an oral appliance. However, there less information about the role of an oral appliance in a clinical care model in terms of uptake and efficacy. This study aimed at examining the efficacy of an intervention in dental public health settings in Melbourne, Australia.

Methods

Data were collected from the 2018-2021. Participants who fitted inclusions criteria completed two instruments. The Epworth Sleepiness Score (ESS) was used to assess the Subjective daytime sleepiness, and the Apnoea Hypopnea Index (AHI) objectively evaluated the severity of OSA. Participants were further asked to self-report felt improvements post intervention. Paired t-tests were used to compare pre-test and the post-test results.

Results

34 participants had complete before and after data recorded. The mean age of the final samples of 66.4 (s.d., 14.2), the majority were female (67.7%). Participants unanimously acknowledged improvements after the intervention. Findings also indicated that after the intervention, participants had significantly lower EES scores compared to their baseline scores (6.9 vs 12.7; p<0.001). Regarding the AHI, at post-test, participants had significantly lower AHI scores compared to their baseline scores (13.8 vs. 19.2; p<0.001).

Conclusions

Present results indicate the use of oral appliance will ultimately benefit public patients who suffer from OSA. After the intervention, there were both objective and subjective improvements in OSA. Thus, findings provide valuable inputs and guidance for the design and implementation for larger efficacy trial.
P102 Sleep Quality, Depression, and Anxiety in People with Spinal Cord Injury and Traumatic Brain Injury Undergoing Inpatient Rehabilitation.
Authors: Saravanan K , Downey L , Graco M
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Poor sleep, depression, and anxiety are prevalent secondary complications of spinal cord injury (SCI) and traumatic brain injury (TBI), and may interfere with recovery. This observational, exploratory study aimed to describe subjective and objective sleep quality, and levels of depression and anxiety in people with SCI and TBI undergoing inpatient rehabilitation; and to explore associations between sleep quality, depression, and anxiety.

Methods

Twenty-four patients admitted to two neurorehabilitation facilities following SCI (n =18) or TBI (n = 6) completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21, and one week of actigraphy monitoring.

Results

Most participants reported poor subjective sleep quality (83%). Average depression and anxiety scores were within normal levels. Higher anxiety scores correlated with lower subjective sleep quality, longer sleep onset latency, and lower subjective total sleep time.

Discussion

The findings suggest that targeting anxiety may improve sleep quality in inpatients with SCI or TBI, and vice-versa. Longitudinal and interventional studies are required to understand whether these relationships are reciprocal, and whether therapies targeting both sleep and mental health during inpatient rehabilitation can improve patient outcomes.
P104 The Impact of Total Sleep Deprivation on Performance in the Esport ‘Rocket League’.
Authors: Smithies T , Toth A , Campbell M
Published: October 2023

Preliminary findings from this study were presented as a poster (P376) at Sleep Europe 2022 (https://doi.org/10.1111/jsr.13740).

Introduction

Sleep loss is presumed by academics and esport (organised competitive video-game play) athletes to be an in-game esport performance hindrance, primarily due to its well understood effects on multiple domains of cognitive performance. However, the effects of acute sleep loss specifically on esports performance have not been explored. We aimed to elucidate whether total sleep deprivation degrades in-game performance in the popular esport ‘Rocket League’.

Methods

Forty habitual Rocket League players were paired according to in-game ability level (twenty pairs), with one assigned to a control group (CON) and the other assigned to an intervention group (TSD). Two test sessions took place, in which paired players completed subjective and cognitive performance measures, and played seven Rocket League matches against one another. In one session, both players in a pair were well rested, while in the other, CON was rested while TSD was sleep deprived.

Results

Acute total sleep deprivation resulted in higher self-reported sleepiness, lower alertness and motivation, poorer performance on the Psychomotor Vigilance Task (PVT) and two-choice component of the Category Switch Task (CST). Despite this, overall in-game esport performance did not worsen due to sleep deprivation, although exploratory analysis suggests potential in-game strategy change.

Discussion

Our findings do not suggest that sleep loss is inconsequential for esport athletes, but rather suggest that acute bouts of sleep loss of similar/lesser severity may not be a primary concern for in-game esports performance.
Quality indicators and outcomes in ambulatory surgery
Authors: Glowka Lena , Tanella Anthony , Hyman Jaime B.
Published: October 2023

Purpose of review

Quality indicators are used to monitor the quality and safety of care in ambulatory surgery, a specialty in which major morbidity and mortality remain low. As the demand for safe and cost-effective ambulatory surgical care continues to increase, quality indicators and metrics are becoming critical tools used to provide optimal care for these patients.

Recent findings

Quality indicators are tools used by both regulatory agencies and surgical centers to improve safety and quality of ambulatory surgical and anesthetic care. These metrics are also being used to develop value-based payment models that focus on efficient, safe, and effective patient care. Patient reported outcome measures are a growing method of collecting data on the satisfaction and postoperative recovery period for ambulatory surgical patients. Monitoring of perioperative efficiency and utilization using quality metrics are important to the financial health of ambulatory surgical centers.

Quality indicators will continue to play a growing role in the monitoring of quality and safety in ambulatory surgery, especially with the trend towards value-based reimbursement models and efficient, cost-effective surgical care. Additionally, quality indicators are useful tools to monitor postoperative patient outcomes and recovery pathways and the efficiency of operating room utilization and scheduling.
Beyond growth hormone: association of short stature types and growth hormone with scoliosis
Authors: Hong Haofeng , Hu Jiasheng , Xu Honghao , Xia Dongdong , Pan Xiangxiang , Chen Xibang , Guo Quanquan , Zhang Shuhao , Chen Jiaoxiang , Wu Yaosen , Leng Huijie , Zhang Xiaolei , Wang Xiangyang , Huang Chongan
Published: October 2023

Study Design:

Cross-sectional and retrospective cohort study.

Objective:

We investigated the effect of three types of short stature (partial growth hormone deficiency [GHD], GHD, and idiopathic short stature [ISS]) and recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) therapy on scoliosis.

Summary of Background Data:

In short stature, rhGH is widely used and the concentration of growth hormone varies among types. The epidemiologic characteristics of scoliosis and the role of rhGH on scoliosis remain unclear.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 3896 patients with short stature (partial GHD, GHD, and ISS), and a 1:1 age- and sex-matched control group with preexisting whole-spine radiographs. The cohort study included 2605 subjects who underwent radiography more than twice to assess scoliosis development, progression, and the need for bracing and surgery. Adjusted logistic regression were used to assess differences in the prevalence of scoliosis among patients with partial GHD, GHD, ISS, and controls. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to analyze the time course of scoliosis development and progression. Cox regression was applied to assess the independent factors related to scoliosis development and progression. Mendelian randomization analyses were also performed.

Results:

Compared with controls, patients with short stature had a higher incidence of scoliosis (34.47% in partial GHD, 31.85% in GHD, 32.94% in ISS vs 8.83% in control,

P

<0.001), a higher risk of scoliosis development (HR=1.964 in partial GHD,

P

<0.001; HR=1.881 in GHD,

P

=0.001; HR=1.706 in ISS,

P

=0.001), but not a higher risk of progression, brace, or surgery. Among three types of short stature, there was no differences in the incidence, development and progression of scoliosis or the need for bracing or surgery. RhGH treatment increased the risk of scoliosis development in each short stature group (HR=2.673 in partial GHD, P<0.001; HR=1.924 in GHD, P=0.049; HR=1.564 in ISS, P=0.004). Vitamin D supplementation was protective against scoliosis development (HR=0.456 in partial GHD,

P

=0.003; HR=0.42 in GHD,

P

=0.013; HR=0.838 in ISS,

P

=0.257).

Conclusions:

More attention should be paid to the spinal curve in patients with partial GHD, GHD or ISS. For short stature treated with rhGH, the risk of scoliosis development was increased. Vitamin D supplementation may be beneficial for prevention.

Level of evidence:

3.
Translation, adaptation and validation of a Spanish version of the Japanese orthopaedic association cervical myelopathy questionnaire
Authors: Ramírez Valencia Manuel , Haddad Sleiman Md , Pons Carreto Alba , García de Frutos Ana , Nuñez-Pereira Susana , PelliséUrquiza Ferran
Published: October 2023

Study design:

Translation and psychometric testing of a questionnaire.

Objective:

Translation, adaptation and validation of the Japanese Orthopaedic Association Cervical Myelopathy Evaluation Questionnaire (JOACMEQ) to the Spanish language.

Summary of Background data:

Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy (DCM) has a clear impact on quality of life. The Japanese Orthopaedic Association Cervical Myelopathy Evaluation Questionnaire (JOACMEQ) is a self-administered questionnaire used to assess DCM related disability and its impact on quality of life. It is compound of five domains: Cervical Function; Upper Extremity Function; Lower Extremity Function; Blader Function and Quality of Life (QoL). Despite its increasing use, the JOACMEQ has not yet been translated and validated for Spanish speaking patients.

Methods:

A total of 180 patients completed the Spanish version. Of these, 145 (80%) had DCM (mean age 62.53; SD 9.92), while 35 had neck pain without DCM (age 52.71; SD 10.29). The psychometric properties measured were: construct validity, internal consistency, reproducibility, concurrent validity and discriminatory ability.

Results:

We recruited 145 patients with DCM (mean age 62.5) and 35 with cervical pain (mean age 52.7). After Factor analysis our data showed very strong construct validity with questions strongly loaded and clustered for five factors. Internal consistency proved high (Cronbach’s α coefficient of 0.912). The ICC showed very good reproducibility for all domain (ICC range between 0.85 and 0.95). A high correlation between the JOACMEQ quality of life domain and NDI was also found (Spearman’s ρ = - 0.847, P < 0.01) confirming concurrent validity. The ROC curves proved to be significant in the upper (AUC = 0.65, P = 0.006) and lower (AUC = 0.661, P = 0.003) extremities confirming discriminatory ability.

Conclusions:

Our proposed Spanish version of the JOACMEQ retains the psychometric characteristics of the original JOACMEQ and could prove useful for the evaluation of patients with DCM in Spanish-speaking countries.
The Cognitive Profile of Elderly Patients With Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: A Role for Cognitive Reserve?
Authors: Thuss Nikki S. , Rakers Sandra E. , Bittencourt Mayra , Balart-Sánchez Sebastián A. , Spikman Jacoba M. , van der Naalt Joukje
Published: October 2023

Objective:

To assess cognitive status in elderly patients with mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) in the subacute phase, examine the role of cognitive reserve, and investigate associations with cognitive complaints, mental distress, and functional outcomes.

Setting:

A level 1 trauma center in the Netherlands.

Participants:

A total of 52 individuals with mTBI and 42 healthy controls.

Design:

A prospective observational cohort study.

Main Measures:

Neuropsychological assessment in the subacute phase (2 weeks to 6 months post-injury) to objectively measure the cognitive functioning, the Head Injury Symptom Checklist for subjective cognitive complaints, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale for anxiety and depression, the Cognitive Reserve Index questionnaire for cognitive reserve, the Community Integration Questionnaire for community integration, and the Glasgow Outcome Scale Extended for functional outcome.

Results:

Cognitive impairments were observed in memory (P < .001) and attention, processing speed and executive control (P < .001). Cognitive reserve was not associated with neuropsychological test performance, except for one test measuring working memory. The relationship between injury severity and cognitive outcome was not moderated by cognitive reserve. Elderly patients reported significantly more complains than healthy controls regarding forgetfulness, concentration problems, and slowness. Complaints of concentration were associated with cognitive impairment. All cognitive complaints were significantly correlated with mental distress.

Conclusions:

Cognitive impairments may be present in elderly patients in the subacute phase after mTBI, and these impairments were not significantly associated with cognitive reserve. This suggests that cognitive reserve might not serve as a protective factor against the effects of mTBI in the elderly. Concentration complaints may serve as a specific indicator for cognitive impairment, while complaints of memory and mental slowness may represent more generic indicators of mental distress. These findings highlight the importance of careful screening in older adults with mTBI, guiding clinicians toward specific treatment targets encompassing cognitive impairment, diminished mental well-being, or both.
Neurophysiological oscillatory markers of hypoalgesia in conditioned pain modulation
Authors: Jin Hyerang , Witjes Bart , Roy Mathieu , Baillet Sylvain , de Vos Cecile C.
Published: October 2023

Introduction:

Conditioned pain modulation (CPM) is an experimental procedure that consists of an ongoing noxious stimulus attenuating the pain perception caused by another noxious stimulus. A combination of the CPM paradigm with concurrent electrophysiological recordings can establish whether an association exists between experimentally modified pain perception and modulations of neural oscillations.

Objectives:

We aimed to characterize how CPM modifies pain perception and underlying neural oscillations. We also interrogated whether these perceptual and/or neurophysiological effects are distinct in patients affected by chronic pain.

Methods:

We presented noxious electrical stimuli to the right ankle before, during, and after CPM induced by an ice pack placed on the left forearm. Seventeen patients with chronic pain and 17 control participants rated the electrical pain in each experimental condition. We used magnetoencephalography to examine the anatomy-specific effects of CPM on the neural oscillatory responses to the electrical pain.

Results:

Regardless of the participant groups, CPM induced a reduction in subjective pain ratings and neural responses (beta-band [15–35 Hz] oscillations in the sensorimotor cortex) to electrical pain.

Conclusion:

Our findings of pain-induced beta-band activity may be associated with top-down modulations of pain, as reported in other perceptual modalities. Therefore, the reduced beta-band responses during CPM may indicate changes in top-down pain modulations.
Preparation of antiviral multispray with cationic antimicrobial dialkyldimethyl ammonium salt and sulfobetaine against new coronaviruses (SARS-CoV-2)
Authors: Morioka Masahiko , Shimaoka Daisuke , Ohnishi Mamoru
Published: October 2023

The novel sudden acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 is an enveloped virus currently causing severe illness and death worldwide. Common antiseptics such as alcohol have some efficacy in disinfecting everyday surroundings, but development of more effective disinfectants is imperative. A series of studies focusing on cationic antimicrobials resulted in the development of a safe and effective novel coronavirus disinfectant, DEA-171, which provides ≥99.98% inhibition of all novel coronavirus variants within 1 min.
Species-specific dynamics may cause deviations from general biogeographical predictions – evidence from a population genomics study of a New Guinean endemic passerine bird family (Melampittidae)
Authors: Müller Ingo A. , Thörn Filip , Rajan Samyuktha , Ericson Per , Dumbacher John P. , Maiah Gibson , Blom Mozes , Jønsson Knud A. , Irestedt Martin
Published: October 2023

New Guinea, the largest tropical island, is topographically complex and is dominated by a large central mountain range surrounded by multiple smaller isolated mountain regions along its perimeter. The island is biologically hyper-diverse and harbours an avifauna with many species found only there. The family Melampittidae is endemic to New Guinea and consists of two monotypic genera:Melampitta lugubris(Lesser Melampitta) andMegalampitta gigantea(Greater Melampitta). Both Melampitta species have scattered and disconnected distributions across New Guinea in the central mountain range and in some of the outlying ranges. WhileM. lugubrisis common and found in most montane regions of the island,M. gigantaeais elusive and known from only six localities in isolated pockets on New Guinea with very specific habitats of limestone and sinkholes. In this project, we apply museomics to determine the population structure and demographic history of these two species. We re-sequenced the genomes of all seven knownM. gigantaeasamples housed in museum collections as well as 24M. lugubrissamples from across its distribution. By comparing population structure between the two species, we investigate to what extent habitat dependence, such as inM. gigantaea, may affect population connectivity. Phylogenetic and population genomic analyses, as well as acoustic differentiation, revealed thatM. gigantaeaconsists of a single population in contrast toM. lugubristhat shows much stronger population structure across the island. This work sheds new light on the mechanisms that have shaped the intriguing distribution of the two species within this family and is a prime example of the importance of museum collections for genomic studies of poorly known and rare species.
Acid Ceramidase Inhibitor LCL-805 Antagonizes Akt Signaling and Promotes Iron-Dependent Cell Death in Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Ung Johnson , Tan Su-Fern , Fox Todd E , Shaw Jeremy JP , Taori Maansi , Horton Bethany J , Golla Upendarrao , Sharma Arati , Szulc Zdzislaw M , Wang Hong-Gang , Chalfant Charles E. , Cabot Myles C , Claxton David F , Loughran Thomas P , Feith David J
Published: October 2023

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive hematologic malignancy requiring urgent treatment advancements. Ceramide is a cell death-promoting signaling lipid that plays a central role in therapy-induced cell death. Acid ceramidase (AC), a ceramide-depleting enzyme, is overexpressed in AML and promotes leukemic survival and drug resistance. The ceramidase inhibitor B-13 and next-generation lysosomal-localizing derivatives termed dimethylglycine (DMG)-B-13 prodrugs have been developed but remain untested in AML. Here, we report thein vitroanti-leukemic efficacy and mechanism of DMG-B-13 prodrug, LCL-805, across AML cell lines and primary patient samples. LCL-805 inhibited AC enzymatic activity, increased total ceramides, and reduced sphingosine levels. A median EC50 value of 11.7 μM was achieved for LCL-805 in cell viability assays across 32 human AML cell lines. As a single agent tested across a panel of 71 primary AML patient samples, a median EC50 value of 15.8 μM was achieved. Exogenous ceramide supplementation with C6-ceramide nanoliposomes, which is entering phase I/II clinical trial for relapsed/refractory AML, significantly enhanced LCL-805 killing. Mechanistically, LCL-805 antagonized Akt signaling and led to iron-dependent cell death distinct from canonical ferroptosis. These findings elucidated key factors involved in LCL-805 cytotoxicity and demonstrated the potency of combining AC inhibition with exogenous ceramide.
Upper common pathways analysis using late atrial premature depolarization in atrioventricular nodal reentry tachycardia
Authors: Park Soyoon , Park Jeong-Wook , Kim Soohyun , Kim Hwajung , Kim Sung-Hwan , Oh Yong-Seog , Choi Young
Published: October 2023

Introduction

The presence of an upper common pathway (UCP) in atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT) has been suggested. However, the precise anatomical description and the actual prevalence of UCP have not been well established. We aimed to assess the prevalence of UCP in AVNRT using a late atrial premature depolarization (LAPD) maneuver.

Methods

Patients who were diagnosed with typical AVNRT by electrophysiologic studies were enrolled. To evaluate the presence of UCP, a LAPD was given at the coronary sinus ostium (osCS) during AVNRT and then pacing was repeated incrementally every 10 ms. The result was interpreted as i) absence of UCP, a LAPD from osCS can reset the tachycardia without depolarizing the earliest retrograde atrial activation site (ERAS) near the proximal His; ii) presence of UCP, a LAPD from osCS can depolarize the ERAS without resetting the tachycardia; and iii) indeterminate, a LAPD from osCS either reset the ERAS and tachycardia simultaneously or does not reset both.

Results

The LAPD maneuver was performed in 126 patients with AVNRT and one patient with nodoventricular orthodromic reentrant tachycardia (NVORT). The maneuver result demonstrated an absence of UCP in 121 (96.0%) patients, a presence of UCP in 3 (2.4%) patients, and was indeterminate in 2 (1.6%) patients. In the patient with NVORT, the result was consistent with the presence of UCP.

Conclusions

The LAPD maneuver revealed that most AVNRTs did not exhibit a single UCP. The presence of UCP was suggested in 2.4% of AVNRT cases and one case of NVORT.
Anti-CRISPR proteins trigger a burst of CRISPR-Cas9 expression that enhances phage defense
Authors: Workman Rachael E. , Stoltzfus Marie J. , Keith Nicholas C. , Euler Chad W. , Bondy-Denomy Joseph , Modell Joshua W.
Published: October 2023

CRISPR-Cas immune systems provide bacteria with adaptive immunity against bacteriophages, but they are often transcriptionally downregulated to mitigate autoimmunity. In some cases, CRISPR-Cas expression increases in response to a phage infection, but the mechanisms of induction are largely unknown, and it is unclear whether induction occurs strongly and quickly enough to benefit the bacterial host. InS. pyogenes, Cas9 is both an immune effector and autorepressor of CRISPR-Cas expression. Here, we show that phage-encoded anti-CRISPR proteins relieve Cas9 autorepression and trigger a rapid increase in CRISPR-Cas levels during a single phage infective cycle. As a result, fewer cells succumb to lysis leading to a striking survival benefit after multiple rounds of infection. CRISPR-Cas induction also reduces lysogeny, thereby limiting a route for horizontal gene transfer. Altogether, we show that Cas9 is not only a CRISPR-Cas effector and repressor, but also a phage sensor that can mount an anti-anti- CRISPR transcriptional response.
Disparate pathways for extrachromosomal DNA biogenesis and genomic DNA repair
Authors: Rose John C. , Wong Ivy Tsz-Lo , Daniel Bence , Jones Matthew G. , Yost Kathryn E. , Hung King L. , Curtis Ellis J. , Mischel Paul S. , Chang Howard Y.
Published: October 2023

Oncogene amplification on extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA) is a pervasive driver event in cancer, yet our understanding of how ecDNA forms is limited. Here, we couple a CRISPR-based method for induction of ecDNA with extensive characterization of newly formed ecDNA to examine ecDNA biogenesis. We find that DNA circularization is efficient, irrespective of 3D genome context, with formation of a 1 Mb and 1.8 Mb ecDNA both reaching 15%. We show non-homologous end joining and microhomology mediated end joining both contribute to ecDNA formation, while inhibition of DNA-PKcs and ATM have opposing impacts on ecDNA formation. EcDNA and the corresponding chromosomal excision scar form at significantly different rates and respond differently to DNA-PKcs and ATM inhibition. Taken together, our results support a model of ecDNA formation in which double strand break ends dissociate from their legitimate ligation partners prior to joining of illegitimate ends to form the ecDNA and excision scar.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our study harnesses a CRISPR-based method to examine ecDNA biogenesis, uncovering efficient circularization between DSBs. ecDNAs and their corresponding chromosomal scars can form via NHEJ or MMEJ, but the ecDNA and scar formation processes are distinct. Based on our findings, we establish a mechanistic model of excisional ecDNA formation.
Proteomic Stratification of Prognosis and Treatment Options for Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Huo Zitian , Duan Yaqi , Zhan Dongdong , Xu Xizhen , Zheng Naireng , Cai Jing , Sun Ruifang , Wang Jianping , Cheng Fang , Gao Zhan , Xu Caixia , Liu Wanlin , Dong Yuting , Ma Sailong , Zhang Qian , Zheng Yiyun , Lou Liping , Kuang Dong , Chu Qian , Qin Jun , Wang Guoping , Wang Yi
Published: October 2023

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a highly malignant and heterogeneous cancer with limited therapeutic options and prognosis prediction models. Here, we analyzed formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples of surgical resections by proteomic profiling, and stratified SCLC into three proteomic subtypes (S-I, S-II, and S-III) with distinct clinical outcomes and chemotherapy responses. The proteomic subtyping was an independent prognostic factor and performed better than current TNM or Veterans Administration Lung Study Group (VALG) staging methods. The subtyping results could be further validated using FFPE biopsy samples from an independent center, extending the analysis to both surgical and biopsy samples. The signatures of the S-II subtype in particular suggest potential benefits from immunotherapy. Differentially overexpressed proteins in S-III, the worst prognostic subtype, allowed us to nominate potential therapeutic targets, indicating that patient selection may bring new hope for previously failed clinical trials. Finally, analysis of an independent cohort of SCLC patients who had received immunotherapy validated the prediction that the S-II patients had better Progression Free Survival (PFS) and Overall Survival (OS) after first-line immunotherapy. Collectively, our study provides the rationale for future clinical investigations to validate the current findings for more accurate prognosis prediction and precise treatments.
CSR initiatives in SMEs: employee perception and their influence on employment decisions
Authors: Marcinkowska Elżbieta , Sawicka Joanna
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Nearly half of the surveyed SMEs in Poland admitted that there is a very strong competition on the market where they operate. Among the neuralgic factors they point to the lack of qualified employees (PARP, 2021). Companies can use CSR policies to attract competent employees and retain valuable ones. Therefore, the purpose of this research paper is to find out whether, according to employees working in SME companies, an active CSR policy influences their employment-related decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected through questionnaires received from 618 employees of 29 SMEs in Poland through questionnaires, which were analyzed with the IBM SPSS Statistics 26.0 and Microsoft Excel 2019.

Findings

The survey results provide evidence that CSR activities are an important factor in employees' decisions about potential employment and/or continued employment. In particular, the results show that almost all areas of CSR, except cooperation with the local communities, are important to employees. The survey also provides a clear answer as to which CSR initiatives benefiting employees of SME companies are the most important for them.

Originality/value

The conducted research fills a gap in CSR related studies on the SME sector in Poland. This is important, given the significant share of SME sector companies in the market in Poland and around the world.
A scoping review of research on mental health conditions among young construction workers
Authors: Frimpong Samuel , Sunindijo Riza Yosia , Wang Cynthia Changxin , Boadu Elijah Frimpong , Dansoh Ayirebi , Fagbenro Rasaki Kolawole
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Current research on mental health in the construction industry is fragmented, making it difficult to obtain a complete picture of young construction workers’ mental health conditions. This situation adversely affects research progress, mental health-care planning and resource allocation. To address this challenge, the purpose of this paper was to identify the themes of mental health conditions among young construction workers and their prevalence by geographical location.

Design/methodology/approach

The scoping review was conducted using meta-aggregation, guided by the CoCoPop (condition [mental health], context [construction industry] and population [construction workers 35 years old and younger]) and PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews) frameworks.

Findings

A total of 327 studies were retrieved, and 14 studies published between 1993 and 2022 met the inclusion criteria. The authors identified 13 mental health conditions and categorized them under nine themes. Mood disorders, anxiety disorders and substance-related disorders constituted the most researched themes. Studies predominantly focused on young male workers in the Global North. The prevalence estimates reported in most of the studies were above the respective country’s prevalence.

Originality/value

This review extends previous studies by focusing specifically on the themes of mental health conditions and giving attention to young construction workers whose health needs remain a global priority. The study emphasizes the need to give research attention to lesser-studied aspects of mental health, such as positive mental health. The need to focus on female construction workers and on homogenous sub-groups of young workers is also emphasized. The findings can guide future systematic reviews on the identified thematic areas and help to plan the development of interventions.
Machine learning analysis of heat transfer and electroosmotic effects on multiphase wavy flow: a numerical approach
Authors: Aslam Muhammad Naeem , Riaz Arshad , Shaukat Nadeem , Aslam Muhammad Waheed , Alhamzi Ghaliah
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This study aims to present a unique hybrid metaheuristic approach to solving the nonlinear analysis of hall currents and electric double layer (EDL) effects in multiphase wavy flow by merging the firefly algorithm (FA) and the water cycle algorithm (WCA).

Design/methodology/approach

Nonlinear Hall currents and EDL effects in multiphase wavy flow are originally described by partial differential equations, which are then translated into an ordinary differential equation model. The hybrid FA-WCA technique is used to take on the optimization challenge and find the best possible design weights for artificial neural networks. The fitness function is efficiently optimized by this hybrid approach, allowing the optimal design weights to be determined.

Findings

The proposed strategy is shown to be effective by taking into account multiple variables to arrive at a single answer. The numerical results obtained from the proposed method exhibit good agreement with the reference solution within finite intervals, showcasing the accuracy of the approach used in this study. Furthermore, a comparison is made between the presented results and the reference numerical solutions of the Hall Currents and electroosmotic effects in multiphase wavy flow problem.

Originality/value

This comparative analysis includes various performance indices, providing a statistical assessment of the precision, efficiency and reliability of the proposed approach. Moreover, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is a new work which has not been explored in existing literature and will add new directions to the field of fluid flows to predict most accurate results.
Influence of building attributes on thermal comfort in naturally ventilated hospital wards in the hot-humid tropics of southeast Nigeria
Authors: Uzuegbunam Francis O. , Aja Fynecountry N. , Ibem Eziyi O.
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This research aims to investigate the influence of building design on the thermal comfort of occupants of naturally ventilated hospital (NVH) wards to identify the aspects with the most significant influence on the thermal comfort of hospital buildings during the hot-dry season in the hot-humid tropics of Southeast Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

Field measurements, physical observations and a questionnaire survey of 60 occupants of the wards of the Joint Presbyterian Hospital, Uburu in Ebonyi State, Nigeria were undertaken. The data were analysed using Humphreys' neutral temperature formula, descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis.

Findings

The results revealed that the neutral temperature for the wards ranges from 26.2 °C to 29.9 °C, the thermal condition in the wards was not comfortable because it failed to meet the ASHRAE Standard 55 as only 65% of the occupants said the thermal condition was acceptable. The number and sizes of windows, building orientation, the presence of high-level windows and higher headroom significantly influenced the occupants' thermal comfort vote.

Practical implications

This research is valuable in estimating comfort temperature and identifying aspects that require attention in enhancing the capacity of NVH wards to effectively meet the thermal comfort needs of occupants in the hot-humid tropics of Southeast Nigeria and other regions that share similar climatic conditions.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study of this nature that provides valuable feedback for building design professionals on the performance of existing hospital buildings in meeting users' thermal comfort needs in the hot-dry season of the hot-humid tropics in Southeast Nigeria.
Determinants of income diversification: empirical evidence from Indian banks
Authors: Thakur Nidhi , Arora Sangeeta
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This study aims to explore the determinants (bank-specific, industry-specific and macroeconomic) of income diversification across interest income and non-interest income as well as for non-traditional income sources (non-interest income) from 2004–2005 to 2021–2022.

Design/methodology/approach

An unbalanced data set comprising 110 Indian commercial banks with 1480 observations is sampled in this study. Because of the bounded nature of the dependent variables (proxies of income diversification), the panel Tobit regression model is used.

Findings

The findings reveal that income diversification is positively influenced by bank size, technological advancements, cost–income ratio, return on assets, market competition and inflation in the economy. However, the decision to diversify income sources is adversely impacted by the capital ratio, GDP and financial intermediation ratio. Moreover, factors such as asset quality (loan loss provisions) and liquidity ratio do not directly influence the diversification strategies in the Indian banking industry.

Practical implications

The present study uses an extensive set of variables to provide insights into key factors for bank managers, regulators and policymakers to consider before developing diversification strategies.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to examine the various bank-specific and macroeconomic determinants that affect income diversification in the Indian banking sector. The current study also investigates new variables such as technological advancements and a market concentration index for measuring competition, which have not been investigated in existing literature concerning bank income diversification in the Indian context.
Modelling the factors impacting customer engagement for branded content in healthcare
Authors: Chauhan Trishala , Sindhu Shilpa , Mor Rahul S.
Published: October 2023

Purpose

In this global digital era, health-care companies are increasing their presence on the internet through branded content that serves as a connecting link between customers and brands. However, there is a limited understanding of branded content’s impact on customers. Thus, this paper aims to empirically analyse customer engagement for branded content in the health-care sector.

Design/methodology/approach

The factors impacting customer engagement for branded content were identified and analysed using the Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory approach to get their significance and the cause and effect relationship.

Findings

It emerged that co-creation is the most significant factor, having a substantial relationship with all other factors. It is substantiated that health-care companies can increase the intensity of customer engagement by delivering more authentic and relevant content and having an appealing look in a time-bound manner. This will increase the usefulness and entertaining value of the content.

Originality/value

The research findings contribute to the customer engagement dimension in the health-care sector and help the companies construct effective branded content leading towards higher customer engagement.
Confluent trust, accountability, procedural justice, British credit unions and regulatory reform after the global financial crisis
Authors: Lee Bill , Brierley John
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The relationship between trust, accountability and procedural justice is studied via research into British credit unions (CUs) following regulatory reform to remedy problems exposed by the 2007–2008 global financial crisis.

Design/methodology/approach

Interviews at 13 case studies of different types and sizes of credit unions in Glasgow, Scotland, are examined using template analysis and abductive theorizing to understand the effects of disproportionate reforms on small credit unions.

Findings

Smaller credit unions found three regulatory changes – namely dual regulators, increased minimum reserves and introduction of the Senior Managers and Certification Regime – excessive. Excessive change generated distrust in regulators. Regulators' insufficient attention to procedural justice contributed to this distrust.

Originality/value

Linkage of multidimensional confluent trust to a multilevel system of accountability provides an original way of understanding how indiscriminate attempts at trust repair damage some elements of trust in formal regulatory systems. Recognition of the need for procedural justice to enable smaller credit unions to articulate their extant checks and potential exemption from formal regulations provides another valuable contribution. The explanation of the abductive logic employed is also original.