bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Frailty, Health and Care Needs Assessment (FHCNA): development of the questionnaire and testing its feasibility in homeless hostel accommodation
Authors: Shulman Caroline , Rogans-Watson Rafi , Palipane Natasha , Lewer Dan , Yeung Michelle , Hudson Briony F.
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study aims to co-develop a Frailty, Health and Care Needs Assessment (FHCNA) questionnaire for people experiencing homelessness and explore the feasibility of its use by non-clinical staff in homeless hostels.

Design/methodology/approach

The FHCNA, aimed at identifying frailty and other health and care priorities for people experiencing homelessness, was co-designed in workshops (online and in person) with homelessness and inclusion health staff. Its feasibility was tested by staff and their clients in two hostels, with pre- and post-study focus groups held with hostel staff to gain input and feedback.

Findings

The FHCNA was co-developed and then used to collect 74 pairs of resident and key worker inputted data (62% of eligible hostel residents). The mean age of clients was 48 years (range 22–82 years). High levels of unmet need were identified. Over half (53%) were identified as frail. Common concerns included difficulty walking (46%), frequent falls (43%), chronic pain (36%), mental health issues (57%) and dental concerns (50%). In total, 59% of clients reported difficulty in performing at least one basic activity of daily living, while only 14% had undergone a Care Act Assessment. Hostel staff found using the FHCNA to be feasible, acceptable and potentially useful in facilitating explorations of met and unmet health and social care needs of hostel clients. By identifying unmet needs, the FHCNA has the potential to support staff to advocate for access to health and social care support.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to co-develop and feasibility test a questionnaire for use by non-clinically trained staff to identify frailty and other health and care needs of people experiencing homelessness in a hostel setting.
The impact of TQM practices on organizational performance and on innovation: the mediating role of organizational learning
Authors: Tajouri Oumayma , Lakhal Lassaad
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This article examines the direct effect of total quality management (TQM) practices on organizational performance (OP) and innovation (INN), as well as their indirect effect through organizational learning (OL) as a mediating variable. In addition, this survey examines company size as a contextual variable in the relationship between TQM and outcome variables.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual framework is proposed to test causal links between TQM, OP, INN and OL. To empirically test this framework, 110 questionnaires were collected from large Tunisian quality-certified industries, and 167 questionnaires were collected from small and medium-sized industries (SMIs) in order to examine the effect of company size. In this order, a multigroup analysis (MGA) is performed.

Findings

Using the structural equation modeling technique, seven hypotheses are investigated. The results reveal that TQM has a direct and significant positive effect on OP and INN. Data analysis shows that there is a significant positive effect between TQM and OL, while OL positively influences OP and INN. Furthermore, the results illustrate a mediating effect of OL between TQM and OP and INN. The results reveal that large industries and SMIs show significant differences in the relationship, including the conceptual model.

Practical implications

The conceptual framework can be used by practitioners for effective implementation of TQM practices to simultaneously improve operational performance, quality performance and INN. This study also focuses on the role of OL in large-scale industries.

Originality/value

While the relationships between TQM, INN and OP have been examined separately in previous studies, this study examines the relationship between these variables in a unique model in Tunisian industries, including OL as a mediating variable. In addition, it is one of the few studies that considers firm size as a contextual variable and provides an analysis of its effect on the relationships between these variables. This study presents new data and empirical insights into the relationship between these variables.
Identifying factors influencing purchase intention of sustainable luxury retailing products
Authors: Lavuri Rambabu , Kaul Dimple , Mohan Geetha , Jayawardena Nirma Sadamali , Thaichon Park
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study investigated the antecedents influencing purchase intentions of sustainable luxury products using the stimulus-organism-response (S-O-R) model.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected from 513 participants through surveys about recent purchases of sustainable luxury products. As part of this study, the authors visited luxury retail outlets in Hyderabad, Mumbai and Chennai, and AMOS version 23 was used to analyze the data.

Findings

Consumer trust and attitude (organism) are positively influenced by utilitarian, hedonic, epistemic, social and self-image (SEI) stimuli. Consumer trust and attitude (organism) have a significant impact on sustainable luxury purchase intention (response). In addition, escapism (ESC) moderated the organism–response relationship.

Practical implications

As a result of the findings regarding utilitarian, hedonistic, epistemic, social and SI aspects of luxury brands, practitioners can develop sustainable marketing strategies that will promote luxury brands.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the existing literature by examining the moderating role of entertainment (ENT) and ESC in the S-O-R model in terms of antecedents influencing the purchase intention of sustainable luxury products. Furthermore, this new model contributes by providing a deeper understanding of sustainable luxury shoppers' intentions in India through analyzing purchase intentions for sustainable luxury products.
Assessing the factors influencing intention to use e-government in Tanzania: the perspective of trust, participation and transparency
Authors: Mushi Renatus Michael
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This research involves empirical evidence from the Tanzanian context to find out whether participation, trust and transparency have a significant impact on the acceptance of e-government systems.

Design/methodology/approach

The research employs a survey of 153 respondents followed by structural equation modelling-variance based (CB-SEM) analysis using PLS 4. The conceptual framework was developed by extending the technology acceptance model (TAM) with additional constructs before testing it in quantitative research.

Findings

Results of the model show that the perceived ease of use (PEU) had neither a significant relationship with behaviour intention nor with perceived transparency, while all the other relationships were found to be significant.

Research limitations/implications

Among others, this research provides theoretical underpinnings to the area of acceptance of technologies as well as providing areas for future research and policy implications.

Practical implications

The study presents the relationships involving transparency, trust and participation in e-government systems by the citizens and how they can potentially influence intention to use e-government systems.

Social implications

The regulatory authorities, mobile service operators and government can use this research to enhance decision-making and governance towards effective use of mobile phone technology in accessing government services.

Originality/value

This research delivers a refined, extended model of TAM that comprises extra constructs, namely, trust, transparency and participation. This model provides the basis for upcoming research in the area of technology acceptance, e-government and in behavioural science.
Beyond methodology: unveiling multisited entrepreneurship
Authors: Becker Bas , Roessingh Carel
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Multisited ethnography has primarily been portrayed as a challenge for the following field-worker, with the researcher taking the central role and neglecting research participants also experiencing a multisited nature of their work. The authors argue that literature on multisited ethnography merely discusses multisitedness as a methodological theme. In correspondence, the authors propose to think of multisitedness not just as a methodological theme but also as an empirical theme.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors contend etic and emic perspectives to address multisitedness empirically, which enables researchers to compare and contrast the multisited topic of inquiry in academic “outsider” terms with the etic analysis and considering the perspective of the research participants' multisited experiences using the emic perspective. To show the fruitfulness of discussing multisitedness using the complementary etic and emic analysis, the authors present the example of Mennonite entrepreneurial activities in Belize, a heterogeneous group of migrants that established themselves as successful traders and entrepreneurs.

Findings

Through an etic multisited ethnographic perspective, the authors compare and contrast four communities of Mennonites in terms of their entrepreneurial activities, technology and energy use. Through an emic perspective, the authors demonstrate how Mennonites, while preferring an in-group focus, navigate their multisited entrepreneurial activities, which require interaction with the outside world.

Originality/value

The authors highlight the value of combining etic–emic reflections to acknowledge and include the multisited nature of many social phenomena as experienced by the research participants.
Safety “works”: the influence of safety coaching on work engagement
Authors: Shukla Mudit , Tyagi Divya , Pandey Jatin
Published: December 2023

Purpose

During the COVID-19 pandemic, organizations undertook initiatives such as safety coaching to ensure the safety of their employees and to prevent the spread of the disease. However, the question arises if such measures can have a spill-over effect on other important work-related outcomes. Hence, the objective of the current study is to uncover the impact of safety coaching on one such outcome, i.e. work engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the authors developed a quantitative model with the help of the social exchange theory. The responses of 250 working professionals captured using a three-wave study were analyzed using the SPSS PROCESS macro.

Findings

The authors found that safety coaching does not directly affect work engagement. It is only when safety coaching is perceived to be effective or appropriate and/or invokes organizational trust that it significantly affects organizational members' work engagement.

Practical implications

This study motivates practitioners to adopt safety coaching by highlighting the benefits that it has to offer beyond safety-related behavior. Moreover, this study discusses mechanisms that can aid organizations in facilitating organizational trust and satisfaction with corporate philanthropic COVID-19 response among employees.

Originality/value

This is one of the first studies that examines the spillover effect of safety coaching on other work-related outcomes. It also uncovers novel antecedents of satisfaction with corporate philanthropic COVID-19 response and organizational trust.
A comparison of short form Marlowe–Crowne and “best friends” social desirability bias measures
Authors: Rojas-Méndez José I. , Davies Gary
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to compare two different types of measures of social desirability bias (SDB), a short form of the Marlowe–Crowne measure, a popular direct measure, and an example of a projective technique where half of the respondents record the views of their “best friends”.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected using an online survey of members of a consumer panel. The context chosen to test the SDB measures was that of attitudes toward counterfeit products and xenocentrism in Colombia. Counterfeit proneness, attitude toward counterfeit products and consumer xenocentrism were selected as variables likely to be affected by SDB. Vertical and horizontal collectivism were included as variables likely to influence the first group of variables while not being themselves subject to SDB.

Findings

The projective technique consistently identified higher levels of SDB effects, as hypothesized. Marked differences emerged in the apparent strength of the relationships between the operational constructs depending upon which measure of SDB was used. At times, whether any such relationship might exist depended on the SDB measure used. Contrary to some prior work, no systematic gender effects were identified using either approach.

Originality/value

The first study to provide evidence of the comparative effects of different types of measures of SDB in research into ethical issues. One of the few to demonstrate how apparent relationships between variables can be created by SDB.
Comparison of primary and metastatic site‐related PD‐L1 expression in predicting ORR in patients with advanced NSCLC who received ICB‐based therapy
Authors: Zhou Danhong , Wang Yang , Ning Weiwei , Chen Cheng
Published: December 2023

Background

Whether the value of PD‐L1 expression from metastatic sites to predict the efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade (ICB)‐based treatment is equivalent to that from a primary tumor is uncertain. This study aimed to compare the utility of PD‐L1 TPS from a primary lung tumor and metastatic sites to predict the overall response rate (ORR) of first‐line ICB‐based treatment.

Methods

This study included 249 patients with advanced non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who received first‐line ICB‐based treatment. All subjects underwent PD‐L1 testing prior to ICB‐based treatment and were divided into two cohorts corresponding to the different biopsy sites: lung primary site‐sampled cohort (PT cohort, n = 167) and metastatic site‐sampled cohort (MT cohort, n = 82).

Results

There was no statistical significance in PD‐L1 TPS distribution between the two cohorts (p = 0.742). PD‐L1 TPS ≥50% was also related to high ORR compared with PD‐L1 < 50% in the PT cohort (34.3% vs. 14.1%, p = 0.004). In contrast, ICB‐based therapy could bring comparable ORR (35.1% vs. 33.3%, p = 0.871) in the MT cohort regardless of PD‐L1 TPS status (≥50%, or <50%). As supported, when the cutoff value of TPS was selected as 50%, it was suggested that PT‐related PD‐L1 was the independent predictor of ORR (OR 2.870, 95% CI: 1.231–6.694, p = 0.015) rather than MT‐related PD‐L1 (OR 0.689, 95% CI: 0.236–2.013, p = 0.495). Furthermore, ROC proved that PT‐related PD‐L1 expression manifested a better AUC of 0.621 (p = 0.026) than that of MT‐related PD‐L1 (AUC = 0.565, p = 0.362).

Conclusion

Compared with PT‐related PD‐L1 expression, MT‐related PD‐L1 expression showed limited value in predicting ORR in patients with advanced NSCLC receiving ICB‐based therapy. It was concluded that even patients with low MT‐related PD‐L1 expression could benefit from ICB‐based therapy.
The role of micrometastasis in high‐risk skin cancers
Authors: Sinclair Robert , Wong Xin Lin , Shumack Stephen , Baker Christopher , MacMahon Beth
Published: December 2023

The propensity to metastasize is the most important prognostic indicator for solid cancers. New insights into the mechanisms of early carcinogenesis have revealed micrometastases are generated far earlier than previously thought. Evidence supports a synergistic relationship between vascular and lymphatic seeding which can occur before there is clinical evidence of a primary tumour. Early vascular seeding prepares distal sites for colonisation while regional lymphatics are co‐opted to promote facilitative cancer cell mutations. In response, the host mounts a global inflammatory and immunomodulatory response towards these cells supporting the concept that cancer is a systemic disease. Cancer staging systems should be refined to better reflect cancer cell loads in various tissue compartments while clinical perspectives should be broadened to encompass this view when approaching high‐risk cancers. Measured adjunctive therapies implemented earlier for low‐volume, in‐transit cancer offers the prospect of preventing advanced disease and the need for heroic therapeutic interventions. This review seeks to re‐appraise how we view the metastatic process for solid cancers. It will explore in‐transit metastasis in the context of high‐risk skin cancer and how it dictates disease progression. It will also discuss how these implications will influence our current staging systems and its consequences on management.
Why do I write anthropology? Why do you?
Authors: Gottlieb Alma
Published: December 2023

What role do passion and poetry play in our research‐based quest to promote social justice? In this piece—a manifesto of sorts—I make a case for prioritizing both passion and poetry in our ethnographic writing. Such a commitment will allow our insights to be learned, our interlocutors’ and our own voices to be heard, and our policy recommendations to be heeded. But writing poetically from a place of passion is just the first step. User‐friendly, public writing deserves a sociologically friendly platform. Hence, in the second part of this manifesto, I outline a series of steps that I recommend our discipline take in order to radically scale up our commitment to practice an engaged anthropology. Such tactics will allow us to more realistically promote our knowledge as we advocate for social justice.
Comparing Western and traditional Chinese medicine for male sexual dysfunction: can Klotho represent a silk road?
Authors: Wang Fu , Colonnello Elena , Zhang Hui , Sansone Andrea , Wang Chunlin , Dolci Susanna , Guo Jun , Jannini Emmanuele A.
Published: December 2023

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Western Medicine both have shown efficacy in treating male sexual dysfunction (MSD). The aim of this perspective paper is to discuss a possible link between Western medicine and TCM in the MSD field as represented by the entity of Klotho. Klotho is a recently discovered protein, mainly expressed in the kidney, encoded by the anti‐aging gene klotho. Not only is Klotho significantly correlated with the development and progression of kidney diseases and their complications, but increasing evidence indicates that it is also closely related to MSD. A comprehensive search within PubMed database was performed to retrieve available evidence on Klotho's roles, particularly in kidney and in MSD. Indeed, in the TCM theory, the concept of the “kidney” is entirely different from the Western medicine: it is closely related to metabolism and to the reproductive, nervous, endocrine systems, being more than just a urinary organ. According to the “Kidney storing essence (jīng) and governing reproduction” (KSEGR) theory, a cornerstone in TCM, the treatment of MSD mainly consists of restoring the kidney's function. Signs of decreasing kidney essence show a consistent similarity to deficiencies of Klotho, also for what regards the male sexual function. Based on the current evidence, Klotho may represent a potential biological indicator for sexual desire and sexual function and a kind of new scientific Silk Road between TCM and Western medicine for MSD; nevertheless, there is a need to conduct further high‐quality research to prove this hypothesis.
The impact of school exclusion in childhood on health and well‐being outcomes in adulthood: Estimating causal effects using inverse probability of treatment weighting
Authors: Obsuth Ingrid , Madia Joan E. , Murray Aja L. , Thompson Ian , Daniels Harry
Published: December 2023

Background

Previous evidence has suggested a strong association between school exclusion and health outcomes. However, as health risks are themselves related to the risk of experiencing a school exclusion, it has been challenging to determine the extent to which school exclusion impacts later health outcomes, as opposed to reflecting a marker for pre‐existing risks.

Aim

The aim of the current study was to address this challenge in estimating the medium‐to‐long‐term impact of school exclusion of health and well‐being outcomes.

Methods

To this end, we used an inverse propensity weighting approach in the Next Steps data set (N = 6534, from wave 1, 2014, to wave 8, 2015).

Results

We found that after weighting for propensity of treatment scores estimated based on a wide range of factors, including previous health indicators, there was a significant effect of school exclusion on a wide range of health and well‐being outcomes.

Discussion

These results provide some of the most robust evidence to date that school exclusion harms long‐term health outcomes.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that policies should aim to reduce exclusion and ensure access to preventative health support for those who experience a school exclusion.
Correcting for measurement error under meta‐analysis of z‐transformed correlations
Authors: Zhang Qian , Wang Qi
Published: December 2023

This study mainly concerns correction for measurement error using the meta‐analysis of Fisher's z‐transformed correlations. The disattenuation formula of Spearman (American Journal of Psychology, 15, 1904, 72) is used to correct for individual raw correlations in primary studies. The corrected raw correlations are then used to obtain the corrected z‐transformed correlations. What remains little studied, however, is how to best correct for within‐study sampling error variances of corrected z‐transformed correlations. We focused on three within‐study sampling error variance estimators corrected for measurement error that were proposed in earlier studies and is proposed in the current study: (1) the formula given by Hedges (Test validity, Lawrence Erlbaum, 1988) assuming a linear relationship between corrected and uncorrected z‐transformed correlations (linear correction), (2) one derived by the first‐order delta method based on the average of corrected z‐transformed correlations (stabilized first‐order correction), and (3) one derived by the second‐order delta method based on the average of corrected z‐transformed correlations (stabilized second‐order correction). Via a simulation study, we compared performance of these estimators and the sampling error variance estimator uncorrected for measurement error in terms of estimation and inference accuracy of the mean correlation as well as the homogeneity test of effect sizes. In obtaining the corrected z‐transformed correlations and within‐study sampling error variances, coefficient alpha was used as a common reliability coefficient estimate. The results showed that in terms of the estimated mean correlation, sampling error variances with linear correction, the stabilized first‐order and second‐order corrections, and no correction performed similarly in general. Furthermore, in terms of the homogeneity test, given a relatively large average sample size and normal true scores, the stabilized first‐order and second‐order corrections had type I error rates that were generally controlled as well as or better than the other estimators. Overall, stabilized first‐order and second‐order corrections are recommended when true scores are normal, reliabilities are acceptable, the number of items per psychological scale is relatively large, and the average sample size is relatively large.
Mechanisms analysis for Formononetin counteracted‐Osimertinib resistance in non‐small cell lung cancer cells: From the insight into the gene transcriptional level
Authors: Yin Runyang , Gao Jing , Liu Yang
Published: December 2023

Formononetin is one of the main isoflavone components, which has strong anti‐cancer effects in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, the potentials and the mechanisms of Formononetin to counteract the Osimertinib resistance in NSCLC are unclear. In this study, Formononetin‐induced cell apoptosis, cell proliferation, and clonal formation were detected in Osimertinib‐resistant NSCLC cells (H1975_OR). RNA sequencing analysis was conducted to study the gene expression profiles of Formononetin‐induced H1975_OR cells. The results indicated that Formononetin could significantly induce cell apoptosis, whereas dramatically inhibited cell proliferation and clonal formation on H1975_OR cells. Furthermore, a total of 4309 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between Formononetin‐treated and nontreated H1975_OR cells were had been detected. Gene Ontology (GO) annotation enrichment analysis, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis and the Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) showed that Formononetin affected the expression of genes involving in anatomical structure morphogenesis, anatomical structure development, and multicellular organism development via regulating inflammation‐ and metabolism‐related signaling pathways. Taken together, our study preliminarily revealed the mechanisms of Formononetin to counteract the Osimertinib resistance in NSCLC cells from the transcriptional level and provided a potential treatment method for Osimertinib‐resistant NSCLC patients.
Translation in action: Influence, collaboration, and evolution of COVID‐19 research with Clinical and Translational Science Awards consortium support
Authors: Llewellyn Nicole , Nehl Eric J. , Dave Gaurav , DiazGranados Deborah , Flynn David , Fournier Deborah , Hoyo Verónica , Pelfrey Clara , Casey Shannon
Published: December 2023

The National Institutes of Health (NIH)'s Clinical and Translational Science Awards (CTSA) consortium aims to accelerate translational processes that move discoveries from bench to bedside. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic presented unmatched challenges and applications for CTSA hubs nationwide. Our study used bibliometrics to assess features of COVID‐19 publications supported by the national CTSA program to characterize the consortium's response to the pandemic. Our goal was to understand relative scientific influence, collaboration across hubs, and trends in research emphasis over time. We identified publications from NIH's curated iSearch COVID‐19 Publication Portfolio from February 2020 to February 2023; 3234 peer‐reviewed articles relevant to COVID‐19 cited a CTSA grant. All 66 CTSA hubs were represented, with large‐size and longstanding hubs contributing more publications. Most publications cited UL1 grants, 457 cited KL2/TL1 training grants, and 164 cited multiple hub grants. Compared to a random sample of non‐CTSA‐supported COVID‐19 publications, the CTSA portfolio exhibited greater clinical relevance, more human research, and higher altmetric and citation influence. Results were similar for multi‐hub publications involving networked initiatives like multi‐site clinical trials or the National COVID‐19 Cohort Collaborative. Shifts from molecular/cellular‐oriented research toward human‐oriented research over time were evident, demonstrating translation in action. Results illuminate how the CTSA consortium confronted the pandemic through high‐quality projects oriented toward human research, working across hubs on high‐value collaborations, advancing along the translational spectrum over time. Findings validate CTSA hubs as critical support structures during health emergencies.
Individual differences in processing speed and curiosity explain infant habituation and dishabituation performance
Authors: Poli Francesco , Ghilardi Tommaso , Beijers Roseriet , de Weerth Carolina , Hinne Max , Mars Rogier B. , Hunnius Sabine
Published: December 2023

Habituation and dishabituation are the most prevalent measures of infant cognitive functioning, and they have reliably been shown to predict later cognitive outcomes. Yet, the exact mechanisms underlying infant habituation and dishabituation are still unclear. To investigate them, we tested 106 8‐month‐old infants on a classic habituation task and a novel visual learning task. We used a hierarchical Bayesian model to identify individual differences in sustained attention, learning performance, processing speed and curiosity from the visual learning task. These factors were then related to habituation and dishabituation. We found that habituation time was related to individual differences in processing speed, while dishabituation was related to curiosity, but only for infants who did not habituate. These results offer novel insights in the mechanisms underlying habituation and serve as proof of concept for hierarchical models as an effective tool to measure individual differences in infant cognitive functioning.

Research Highlights

We used a hierarchical Bayesian model to measure individual differences in infants’ processing speed, learning performance, sustained attention, and curiosity.

Faster processing speed was related to shorter habituation time.

High curiosity was related to stronger dishabituation responses, but only for infants who did not habituate.
Heterogeneity in glycaemic control in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes: A latent class trajectory analysis of Danish nationwide data
Authors: Wibaek Rasmus , Ibfelt Else H. , Andersen Gregers S. , Hulman Adam , Dabelea Dana , Jørgensen Marit E. , Svensson Jannet , Vistisen Dorte , Rønn Pernille Falberg
Published: December 2023

Aims

Suboptimal glycaemic control in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes is prevalent and associated with increased risk of diabetes‐related complications and mortality later in life. First, we aimed to identify distinct glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) trajectories in children and adolescents (2–19 years) with type 1 diabetes. Second, we examined their associations with clinical and socio‐demographic factors.

Methods

Data were obtained from the Danish Registry of Childhood and Adolescent Diabetes (DanDiabKids) comprising all Danish children and adolescents diagnosed with type 1 diabetes from 1996 to 2019. Subgroups of distinct mean trajectories of HbA1c were identified using data‐driven latent class trajectory modelling.

Results

A total of 5889 children (47% female) had HbA1c measured a median of 6 times (interquartile range 3–8) and contributing to 36,504 measurements. We identified four mean HbA1c trajectories, referred to as ‘Stable but elevated HbA1c’ (83%), ‘Increasing HbA1c’ (5%), ‘Late HbA1c peak’ (7%), and ‘Early HbA1c peak’ (5%). Compared to the ‘Stable but elevated HbA1c’ group, the three other groups presented rapidly deteriorating glycaemic control during late childhood or adolescence, had higher HbA1c at study entry, and included fewer pump users, higher frequency of inadequate blood glucose monitoring, more severe hypoglycaemic events, lower proportions with Danish origin, and worse educational status of parents. The groups also represented significant differences by healthcare region.

Conclusions

Children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes experience heterogenous trajectories with different timings and magnitudes of the deterioration of HbA1c levels, although the majority follow on average a stable, yet elevated HbA1c trajectory. The causes and long‐term health implications of these heterogenous trajectories need to be addressed.
Effects of tertiary palliative care on the pattern of end‐of‐life care in patients with hematologic malignancies in Korea
Authors: Kim Dong Hyun , Youk Jeonghwan , Byun Ja Min , Koh Youngil , Hong Junshik , Kim Tae Min , Kim Inho , Yoon Sung‐Soo , Yoo Shin Hye , Shin Dong‐Yeop
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Patients with hematologic malignancies (HMs) often face challenges in accessing palliative care (PC) and receiving quality end‐of‐life (EOL) care. We examined factors associated with referrals to tertiary PC and the effects of tertiary PC on EOL care in patients with HMs.

Method

We included patients with HMs who were admitted to a university‐affiliated hospital and died during hospitalization between January 2018 and December 2021. We investigated the receipt of PC consultations, patient characteristics, and EOL care indicators.

Results

Overall, 487 patients were included in the analysis, with 156 (32%) undergoing PC consultation. Sex, residence, disease status, and admission purpose were factors associated with the likelihood of PC consultation, and there has been an increasing trend in the frequency of consultations in recent cases. A higher proportion of patients who received PC completed advance statements and life‐sustaining treatment documents. Patients who received PC had lower rates of aggressive EOL care, including chemotherapy and intensive care unit admission, than those who did not receive PC. Notably, PC reduced the number of blood transfusions.

Conclusion

Tertiary PC aims to reduce aggressive EOL care through patient‐centered goal‐of‐care discussions. Therefore, there is an imperative need for concerted efforts toward seamless integration of PC.
Characterization of dopaminergic projections from the ventral tegmental area and the dorsal raphe nucleus to the orbital frontal cortex
Authors: Noble Duncan J. , Mohammadkhani Aida , Qiao Min , Borgland Stephanie L.
Published: December 2023

The orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) is a key node in the cortico‐limbic‐striatal circuitry that influences decision‐making guided by the relative value of outcomes. Midbrain dopamine from either the ventral tegmental area (VTA) or the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) has the potential to modulate OFC neurons; however, it is unknown at what concentrations these terminals release dopamine. Male and female adult dopamine transporter (DAT)IRES‐Cre–tdTomato mice were injected with AAV2/8‐EF1a‐DIO‐eYFP into either the DRN or the VTA or the retrograde label cholera toxin B (CTB) 488 in the medial or lateral OFC. We quantified co‐expression of CTB 488 or enhanced yellow fluorescent protein (eYFP) with tdTomato fluorescence in VTA or DRN and eYFP fibre density in the medial or lateral OFC. Both VTA and DRN dopamine neurons project to either the medial OFC or the lateral OFC, with greater expression of fibres in the medial OFC. Using fast‐scan cyclic voltammetry, we detected optogenetically evoked dopamine from channelrhodopsin 2 (ChR2)‐expressing VTA or DRN dopamine terminals in either the medial OFC or the lateral OFC. We assessed if optical stimulation of dopamine from the VTA or the DRN onto the medial OFC could alter layer V pyramidal neuronal firing; however, we did not observe a change in firing at stimulation parameters that evoked dopamine release from either projection even though bath application of dopamine with the monoamine transporter inhibitor, nomifensine, decreased firing. In summary, dopaminergic neurons from the VTA or the DRN project to the OFC and release submicromolar dopamine in the medial and lateral OFC.
Drivers of contemporary and future changes in Arctic seasonal transition dates for a tundra site in coastal Greenland
Authors: Liu Yijing , Wang Peiyan , Elberling Bo , Westergaard‐Nielsen Andreas
Published: December 2023

Climate change has had a significant impact on the seasonal transition dates of Arctic tundra ecosystems, causing diverse variations between distinct land surface classes. However, the combined effect of multiple controls as well as their individual effects on these dates remains unclear at various scales and across diverse land surface classes. Here we quantified spatiotemporal variations of three seasonal transition dates (start of spring, maximum normalized difference vegetation index (NDVImax) day, end of fall) for five dominating land surface classes in the ice‐free Greenland. Using a distributed snow model, structural equation modeling, and a random forest model, based on ground observations and remote sensing data, we assessed the indirect and direct effects of climate, snow, and terrain on seasonal transition dates. We then presented new projections of likely changes in seasonal transition dates under six future climate scenarios. The coupled climate, snow cover, and terrain conditions explained up to 61% of seasonal transition dates across different land surface classes. Snow ending day played a crucial role in the start of spring and timing of NDVImax. A warmer June and a decline in wind could advance the NDVImax day. Increased precipitation and temperature during July–August are the most important for delaying the end of fall. We projected that a 1–4.5°C increase in temperature and a 5%–20% increase in precipitation would lengthen the spring‐to‐fall period for all five land surface classes by 2050, thus the current order of spring‐to‐fall lengths for the five land surface classes could undergo notable changes. Tall shrubs and fens would have a longer spring‐to‐fall period under the warmest and wettest scenario, suggesting a competitive advantage for these vegetation communities. This study's results illustrate controls on seasonal transition dates and portend potential changes in vegetation composition in the Arctic under climate change.
Both the selection and complementarity effects underpin the effect of structural diversity on aboveground biomass in tropical forests
Authors: Noulèkoun Florent , Mensah Sylvanus , Dimobe Kangbéni , Birhane Emiru , Kifle Eguale Tadesse , Naab Jesse , Son Yowhan , Khamzina Asia
Published: December 2023

Aim

Despite mounting empirical evidence regarding the positive effects of forest structural diversity (STRDIV) on forest functioning, the underlying biotic mechanisms and controlling abiotic factors remain poorly understood. This study provides the first assessment of the interactive effects of STRDIV and diversity in species and functional traits on aboveground biomass (AGB) in natural forests in West and East Africa.

Location

West and East Africa.

Time period

2014–2020.

Major taxa studied

Woody plants.

Methods

Using data from 276 plots and 7993 trees of 207 species distributed across various types of natural forests and major climatic zones of Africa, linear mixed‐effects and structural equation models, we have evaluated how alternative causal relationships between STRDIV and taxonomic and functional diversity attributes influence AGB, while accounting for the effects of environmental covariates. We also assessed the consistency of these relationships across floristically and environmentally homogenous forest types.

Results

We found that the positive effects of STRDIV on AGB were underpinned by both the community‐weighted mean (CWM) of trait values (selection effects) and species richness (niche complementarity), but the relative importance of these effects varied depending on forest types. Across the forest types, STRDIV primarily mediated the effects of CWM of traits and species richness on AGB. We also found that STRDIV–AGB relationships were constrained by resource (water and nutrient) availability.

Main conclusions

Our findings provide novel insights into the role of functional traits as key determinants of the effects of STRDIV on AGB in tropical forests. We suggest that forest management and climate change mitigation strategies aimed at conserving biodiversity, and fostering biomass storage through increased STRDIV should focus on maintaining high levels of functionally dominant species while also increasing tree species diversity.
Infiltrative pattern of invasion is independently associated with shorter survival and desmoplastic stroma markers FAP and THBS2 in mucinous ovarian carcinoma
Authors: Köbel Martin , Kang Eun‐Young , Lee Sandra , Terzic Tatjana , Karnezis Antony N , Ghatage Prafull , Woo Lawrence , Lee Cheng‐Han , Meagher Nicola S , Ramus Susan J , Gorringe Kylie L
Published: December 2023

Aims

Mucinous ovarian carcinoma (MOC) is a rare ovarian cancer histotype with generally good prognosis when diagnosed at an early stage. However, MOC with the infiltrative pattern of invasion has a worse prognosis, although to date studies have not been large enough to control for covariables. Data on reproducibility of classifying the invasion pattern are limited, as are molecular correlates for infiltrative invasion. We hypothesized that the invasion pattern would be associated with an aberrant tumour microenvironment.

Methods and results

Four subspecialty pathologists assessed interobserver reproducibility of the pattern of invasion in 134 MOC. Immunohistochemistry on fibroblast activation protein (FAP) and THBS2 was performed on 98 cases. Association with survival was tested using Cox regression. The average interobserver agreement for the infiltrative pattern was moderate (kappa 0.60, agreement 86.3%). After reproducibility review, 24/134 MOC (18%) were determined to have the infiltrative pattern and this was associated with a higher risk of death, independent of FIGO stage, grade, and patient age in a time‐dependent manner (hazard ratio [HR] = 10.2, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.0–34.5). High stromal expression of FAP and THBS2 was more common in infiltrative MOC (FAP: 60%, THBS2: 58%, both P < 0.001) and associated with survival (multivariate HR for FAP: 1.5 [95% CI 1.1–2.1] and THBS2: 1.91 [95% CI 1.1–3.2]).

Conclusions

The pattern of invasion should be included in reporting for MOC due to the strong prognostic implications. We highlight the histological features that should be considered to improve reproducibility. FAP and THBS2 are associated with infiltrative invasion in MOC.
Infant screen media and child development: A prospective community study
Authors: Slobodin Ortal , Hetzroni Orit E. , Mandel Moran , Saad Nuttman Sappir , Gawi Damashi Zainab , Machluf Eden , Davidovitch Michael
Published: December 2023

The current study examined longitudinal associations between early screen media exposure (assessed at 6, 12, and 24 months) and the child's motor and language/communication development at the ages of 24 and 36 months. We also aimed to study whether these associations varied by socioeconomic status (SES). Participants were 179 parent‐infant dyads, recruited from well‐baby clinic services during routine visits. Child development measures included standardized measures of developmental milestones as assessed by professionals and referral data to child developmental centers. Both measures were retrieved from the official health maintenance organization records by an expert in child development. Results indicated that screen exposure at 6 and 12 months was associated with a higher risk for language/communication deficits at 36 months in children with moderate or high SES but not in children with low SES. Our findings are consistent with existing literature demonstrating cross‐sectional and longitudinal associations between early screen exposure and language development deficits. Given that media use practices and motivations vary among families from different backgrounds, further investigation of the interaction between SES and screen exposure is needed.
A global picture of unidentified anomalous phenomena: Towards a cross‐cultural understanding of a potentially universal issue
Authors: Lomas Tim
Published: December 2023

Over recent years, the issue of unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAP) has increasingly captivated attention and even concern, as reflected in the US military establishing a UAP Task Force in 2020. However, the discourse and debate around this important topic are beset with misunderstandings and a general lack of knowledge and information. One prominent point of contention is the claim or insinuation that this is a uniquely Western concern, and even one exclusively centred on North America. Crucially though, this is an incorrect assumption and perhaps reflects the Western‐centrism to which academia is liable. To redress this issue, this paper reviews the publicly available information on the prevalence of UAP sightings and reports worldwide, showing that, even if these are heavily biased towards the United States, this is nevertheless a global phenomenon. The discussion concludes though by noting that this is a very poorly understood topic – despite the dawning recognition of its importance – and much more work is needed to better ascertain its cross‐cultural dynamics.
Efficacy and safety of oral probiotic supplementation in mitigating postoperative surgical site infections in patients undergoing colorectal cancer surgery: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Chen Jiahong , Zhao Jie , Wu Hongfu , Wang Tao , Gao Cifeng
Published: December 2023

Surgical site infections (SSIs) pose significant risks to patients undergoing colorectal cancer (CRC) surgery. With increasing evidence on the benefits of oral probiotics in various clinical contexts, there is a need to assess their efficacy and safety in reducing SSIs following CRC surgery. A systematic review and meta‐analysis were conducted in line with PRISMA guidelines using the PICO framework. On 19 September 2023, four major databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Cochrane Library) were searched without any temporal or language restrictions. Rigorous inclusion and exclusion criteria were employed. Data extraction was independently undertaken by two assessors, and any discrepancies were discussed. The Cochrane Collaboration's risk of bias instrument was utilized to assess study quality. The meta‐analysis incorporated a fixed‐effects model or random‐effects model based on the I2 statistic to assess heterogeneity. The initial search yielded 1282 articles, of which 10 met the inclusion criteria and were analysed. Probiotic administration not only significantly reduced the incidence of SSIs but also curtailed the duration of hospital stays. Moreover, the subgroup analysis indicated that interventions employing multiple strains of probiotics were more effective in reducing postoperative infections than those utilizing a single strain. Probiotics effectively prevent postoperative infections and shorten hospital stays. Multi‐strain probiotics outperform single strain in efficacy. Future studies should focus on their safety and optimal clinical use.
Efficacy of stem cell therapy for diabetic foot: Clinical evidence from meta‐analyses
Authors: Zhang Yao , Li Jing , Liu Min
Published: December 2023

To assess the clinical data on the effectiveness of stem cell therapy for diabetic foot (DF) based on recent systematic reviews and meta‐analyses (SRs/MAs). SRs/MAs that evaluate the clinical evidence on the efficacy of stem cell therapy for DF were identified through a systematic search in public databases. The methodological quality and evidence quality of the included SRs/MAs were assessed separately by two researchers. Eight SRs/MAs were included in this analysis. Since there were no registered protocol or exclusion criteria for the included SRs/MAs, the methodological quality was rated as critically low. There was no high‐quality evidence available for the outcomes, and the evidence quality ranged from critically low to moderate. Evidence degradation was most commonly caused by the risk of bias, followed by imprecision, publication bias and inconsistency. In conclusion, stem cell therapy may be effective for DF. However, this conclusion should be approached with caution, considering the quality of the supporting SRs/MAs.