bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The determining factors of demand for life insurance: PLS method applied to the case of OECD and MENA countries
Authors: Nasri Ines , Bouzir Aida , Benhadj Mbarek Mohamed Hédi , Benammou Saloua
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This article provides a comparative analysis of the relationship between insurance and economic growth in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and Middle East and North Africa (MENA) regions. The research aims to understand how insurance impacts economic growth in these two regions, highlighting the similarities and differences between them.

Design/methodology/approach

The study analyzes economic and insurance data from various countries in the OECD and MENA regions over a specific period. It employs the statistical method of Partial Least Squares (PLS) univariate regression to examine the relationships between the variables.

Findings

The study finds a positive correlation between insurance and economic growth in both regions, though the characteristics and mechanisms differ. In the OECD region, where insurance markets are more developed, insurance is strongly linked to economic growth. In contrast, the MENA region, with lower levels of insurance and a less developed industry, still shows a positive effect of insurance on economic growth. The article also identifies factors specific to the OECD and MENA regions that influence this relationship, such as insurance industry regulation, access to financial services, economic and political stability and cultural and institutional differences.

Originality/value

The originality of this research lies in its use of the PLS regression method, setting it apart from previous studies in the same field that have typically relied on other econometric techniques.
3D printed polymers for transseptal puncture simulation
Authors: Buonamici Francesco , Stomaci Tommaso , Carfagni Monica
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the efficacy of 3D printing polymers to realistically mimic the fossa ovalis (FO) – a cardiac structure that is positioned in the interatrial septum – for simulating transseptal puncture (TP) procedures.

Design/methodology/approach

Specimen of different materials and thicknesses were prepared and tested simulating the puncturing of the FO using a 12F ID/14F OD TP catheter. Force and tenting length results were compared with literature references. Scanning electron microscope images of the specimen were acquired to observe the perforated region as well as the structure of the specimen in the unaffected area.

Findings

Significant changes in the properties of interest were registered for the same material on specimens tested at different moments after fabrication. Suturable vessel wall polyjet material offers the best characteristics to replicate FO anatomy and mimic its behavior to puncturing.

Originality/value

The originality of the work lies in the test of different commercial materials. Similar works are already present in literature but specifically designed materials are used. Demonstrating that off-the-shelf materials could be viable for FO specimens would simplify the design of realistic TP simulators in the future.
Do employee responses to CSR enhance career adaptability? A study on the service sector in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Hong Quan , Ha Phuong Thao , Doan Thi Thu Huong
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This empirical study aims to investigate how employee responses to corporate social responsibility (CSR) (i.e. perception of and participation in CSR initiatives) can affect career adaptability in the Vietnamese service industry. Furthermore, the mediating mechanism of psychological capital (PsyCap) and the moderating role of moral identity are explored in this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

The target population for this study includes employees working for service enterprises in which CSR practices are conducted, such as tourism, hospitality, retail, education and others in Vietnam. The data from 685 responses were analyzed for measurement model analysis and structural model analysis using SPSS, AMOS and SmartPLS.

Findings

The findings of this study reveal that CSR perception and CSR participation have significant positive effects on career adaptability through PsyCap. This study also confirms that the positive association between CSR perception and PsyCap is more pronounced among employees with a higher level of internalized moral identity and symbolic moral identity.

Research limitations/implications

The collection of data involving multiple dimensions at once did not allow the study to accurately assess the effect of variables over time. Further studies that want to look closely at the impact of perception of and participation in CSR should collect data longitudinally and follow up the target sample over a period of time. Besides, moral identity is a context-dependent construct associated with various social and cultural institutions. Meanwhile, Western moral identity emphasizes individual-oriented morality; Eastern cultures consider a socially oriented person to be highly moral; therefore, this study’s findings might not be appropriate for Western culture. To enrich the existing CSR framework, future studies may attempt to unveil the intervening mechanism of other psychological factors, such as psychological safety, or explore the predictions for other career-related outcomes, such as career satisfaction in the CSR context. Finally, both CB-SEM and PLS-SEM methods can be combined to analyze complex models, especially high-order models.

Practical implications

By leveraging influence processes within the model, service managers can foster human resource development in the workplace by raising the active involvement of employees in CSR activities.

Originality/value

This research enriches the literature on CSR and employee-related outcomes by formulating a conceptual model focusing on employee responses to CSR as key antecedents. This study also contributes to the existing understanding of the CSR context by empirically investigating micro-level CSR in an emerging economy like Vietnam.
Influence of corporate social responsibility, green practices and organizational politics on sustainable business performance: the importance of employee pro-environmental behavior
Authors: Danish Rizwan Qaiser , Ali Muhammad , Baker Marzena , Islam Ranjita
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Institutional pressures, increased competition and environmental changes demand sustainable business performance. Using the lens of stakeholder theory, this study aims to explore the simultaneous relationships of corporate social responsibility (CSR), green practices and perceived organizational politics (POP) with sustainable business performance, incorporating employee pro-environmental behavior (EPB) as a moderator.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a cross-sectional research design, data were collected via a survey of employees (n = 422) from across industries.

Findings

Based on hierarchical regression analyses, the findings support stakeholder theory by showing that CSR and green practices positively affect sustainable business performance. The findings also extend stakeholder theory by showing that the CSR-sustainable business performance relationship is moderated by EPB.

Practical implications

The study has practical implications for leaders, managers and supervisors in managing CSR and green practices for sustainable business performance and managing EPB to capitalize on the benefits of CSR.

Originality/value

This study assesses the previously untested simultaneous effects of CSR, green practices and POP on sustainable company performance and the moderating effect of EPB.
The role of foraging pollinators in assembling the flower microbiota and transmitting the fire blight pathogen Erwinia amylovora
Authors: Mukhtar Salma , Hassani M. Amine , Zarrillo Tracy , Cui Zhouqi , Sundin George W. , Zeng Quan
Published: October 2024

Flowers serve as hubs for biotic interactions with pollinators and microbes, which can significantly impact plant reproduction and health. Previous studies have shown that the flower microbiota undergoes dynamic assembly processes during anthesis. However, the influence of foraging pollinators on the assembly and dispersal of the flower microbiota and the transmission of plant pathogens remains poorly understood. In this study, we used insect exclusion netting to investigate the role of pollinators in the assembly of the microbiota on apple stigma and the transmission of the fire blight pathogen Erwinia amylovora. We found that excluding pollinators had a minor impact on the community diversity and composition of the apple stigma microbiota, while the flower's developmental stage had a strong influence. Additionally, pollinator exclusion altered bacterial dispersal and the relative abundance of different bacterial species, including E. amylovora, suggesting that pollinators play a role in transmitting plant pathogens. Using a reporter system, we demonstrated that bumble bees can transmit the fire blight pathogen from an infected flower under controlled growth conditions. Our study highlights the importance of intrinsic and pollinator‐independent microbes as sources of inoculum for the stigma microbiota and underscores the role of foraging pollinators in vectoring plant pathogens.
Macroprudential regulation, bank stability, and the credit market in Kenya
Authors: Kiemo Samuel , Kamau Anne , Rugiri Irene W. , Tallam Camilla C.
Published: October 2024

This paper examines the effectiveness of macroprudential regulations in promoting bank stability and the credit market in the Kenyan financial system. The study applies a panel estimation methodology on bank‐level and non‐bank credit data for the period 2001–2021 to achieve its objectives. The study reveals three key findings. First, overall, the banking sector remains resilient as evidenced by the S‐score stability measure. Second, liquidity‐related, capital‐based, and asset‐side macroprudential regulations lower bank stability. Third, there is evidence of dampened bank credit and domestic leakage associated with macroprudential regulations. The paper concludes that macroprudential regulations are ineffective in promoting stability and the credit market. This paper recommends policymakers to use caution when implementing macroprudential conditions. This is to balance out the policy objectives of banking sector stability and access to finance. Additionally, policy makers should be mindful when implementing macroprudential measures that may cause banks to adjust their behavior, leading to domestic credit leakages and cross‐border spillovers.
The role of executive functions in adolescents' hypertext comprehension
Authors: Tabullo Ángel Javier , Saux Gastón Ignacio , Pearson María Rufina
Published: October 2024

Background

Internet documents are characterised by their non‐linear hyperlink structure, which allows for more flexible reading, at the cost of higher cognitive loads. Linear text reading comprehension skills contribute to hypertext comprehension (either directly or through its impact on navigation behaviours) but cannot fully account for its complexity. There is also evidence that hypertext reading engages executive functions, but few studies have addressed the core executive function processes simultaneously. This study examined hypertext comprehension and navigation skills and their association with linear text reading comprehension and executive functions in adolescents.

Methods

One hundred thirty‐six third‐year students (61% boys; age: M = 14.03, SD = 0.44 years) participated in the study. Students were assessed with a paper‐and‐pencil expository text comprehension test, a computerised neuropsychological battery to measure executive functioning (perceptual and response inhibition, shifting and working memory [WM]) and a hypertext comprehension task.

Results

We found direct contributions of shifting, linear text comprehension and navigation efficiency to hypertext comprehension. Linear text comprehension was associated with shifting, while navigation efficiency increased with WM and linear text comprehension skills. In addition, navigation partially mediated the effects of linear text comprehension and fully mediated those of WM on hypertext comprehension.

Conclusions

We found direct and indirect contributions of executive function to hypertext comprehension, mediated by linear text comprehension and navigation efficiency. This suggests that finding and integrating information from hypertexts engages shifting beyond its contribution to linear text reading. The role of WM was explained by its contribution to navigation efficiency (providing a workspace to keep track of navigation paths, reading goals and inferential processing). These findings underline the relevance of high‐level cognitive abilities for Internet reading in adolescents, as well as the importance of teaching boosting navigation strategies in middle school, given their impact on hypertext comprehension.
Barcode 100K Specimens: In a Single Nanopore Run
Authors: Hebert Paul D. N. , Floyd Robin , Jafarpour Saeideh , Prosser Sean W. J.
Published: October 2024

It is a global priority to better manage the biosphere, but action must be informed by comprehensive data on the abundance and distribution of species. The acquisition of such information is currently constrained by high costs. DNA barcoding can speed the registration of unknown animal species, the most diverse kingdom of eukaryotes, as the BIN system automates their recognition. However, inexpensive sequencing protocols are critical as the census of all animal species is likely to require the analysis of a billion or more specimens. Barcoding involves DNA extraction followed by PCR and sequencing with the last step dominating costs until 2017. By enabling the sequencing of highly multiplexed samples, the Sequel platforms from Pacific BioSciences slashed costs by 90%, but these instruments are only deployed in core facilities because of their expense. Sequencers from Oxford Nanopore Technologies provide an escape from high capital and service costs, but their low sequence fidelity has, until recently, constrained adoption. However, the improved performance of its latest flow cells (R10.4.1) erases this barrier. This study demonstrates that a MinION flow cell can characterise an amplicon pool derived from 100,000 specimens while a Flongle flow cell can process one derived from several thousand. At $0.01 per specimen, DNA sequencing is now the least expensive step in the barcode workflow.
Bacterial community response to novel and repeated disturbances
Authors: Halbrook Susannah , Wilber William , Barrow Mary Elizabeth , Farrer Emily C.
Published: October 2024

Disturbance response and recovery are increasingly important in microbial ecology, as microbes may recover from disturbances differently than macro communities. Past disturbances can alter microbial community structure and their response to subsequent disturbance events, but it remains unclear if the same recovery patterns persist after long‐term exposure to stress. Here, we compare bacterial community composition in a community that experienced 2 years of monthly salinity addition disturbances with a community that has not experienced salinity additions. We then track the response and recovery to an additional salinity addition based on past disturbance exposure. We tested the following hypotheses: first, communities with a repeated disturbance history will have a different community composition than communities without a disturbance history; second, communities exposed to repeated disturbances will undergo a different recovery trajectory than communities experiencing a novel disturbance. We find that repeated disturbances alter community composition and affect community response and recovery to a subsequent disturbance after 2 years, primarily through increased resistance. This work enhances our understanding of microbial temporal dynamics and suggests that novel disturbances may pose a threat to microbial community structure and function.
Collective leadership for VUCA: From theoretical exploratory study to knowledge creation
Authors: Koh Cheng Boon
Published: October 2024

From COVID‐19 to the crisis in Ukraine, and fears surrounding a potential cold war brewing between global superpowers, volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) events have created a tsunami of ripple effects affecting individuals, groups, organizations, societies, nations, and the world. To keep pace with or even stay ahead of the VUCA environment, leaders and organizations are required to understand and embrace new leadership skills. A mixed‐methods research design was conducted in a real‐world context as part of the theoretical exploratory research project to collect data for knowledge creation. A mixed‐methods research design was conducted in a real‐world context as part of the theoretical exploratory research project to collect data for knowledge creation. Qualitative data from the interviews of the SME (practitioners) and participants from focus group discussion (FGD) as well as quantitative data were collected from subject matter experts (SMEs, typically leadership educators) and participants working in cultures where collective leadership is practiced. Three key leadership competencies with 12 skills for collective leadership were identified from this knowledge‐creation process. From the 12 leadership skills, a preliminary collective leadership survey was proposed to help leaders and organizations develop greater self‐awareness to plan, conduct, measure, and refine evidence‐based leadership education and development for collective leadership. Limitations and future directions for this relatively new leadership research topic were identified and discussed.
The mediating role of ESG: Managers' moral cognition can improve corporate performance
Authors: Gao Wei , Lyu Xin
Published: October 2024

This study explores the influence mechanism among managers' moral cognition (MC), environmental, social and governance (ESG) and financial performance. Based on the sample of A‐shares listed companies in China from 2010 to 2021, the text mining method was used to construct the indicators of MC so as to conduct empirical tests. The results show that MC is positively correlated with financial performance, and ESG plays a mediating role in this relationship. The heterogeneity test demonstrates that the positive effect of MC on financial performance is most obvious in the heavily polluting companies, while it is weak in the companies with high asset turnover.
Quality‐of‐life evaluation in hidradenitis suppurativa in Australia: Validation and outcomes of the HiSQOL questionnaire
Authors: Wu Kyle , Larney Conor , Marshman Gill , Spelman Lynda , Rubel Diana , Mcmeniman Erin , Veysey Emma , Saunders Helen , Frew John W.
Published: October 2024

Background

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a debilitating chronic inflammatory disease with significant impact upon quality of life. Generic quality‐of‐life measures suffer from decreased face validity and content validity, leading to the development of disease‐specific quality‐of‐life measures such as the Hidradenitis Suppurativa Quality of Life (HiSQOL) outcome measure. The aim of this study was to validate the use of the HiSQOL in the Australian population and evaluate the quality‐of‐life impact in HS patients in Australia.

Methods

A total of 301 patients were recruited and consented to be involved in this study. All participants were invited to complete the HiSQOL questionnaire along with basic demographic and disease information, the DLQI and HADS anxiety and depression scale. Participants were then asked to repeat the questionnaires 14 days later to assess test–retest reliability.

Results

The mean HiSQOL score was 46.5 out of a possible total score of 76 (SD = 24.2) indicating a very large impact on quality of life. Based upon the published validity bands this corresponds to a very large impact on quality of life. Validation statistics indicated a high degree of internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.956) with expected levels of convergent validity and excellent test–retest reliability (p = 0.95). Multiple regression analysis indicated individuals with a younger age of onset and positive family history had significantly greater quality‐of‐life impact as measured by the HiSQOL.

Conclusions

The HiSQOL is a valid, reliable measure for assessing the quality‐of‐life impact of HS. Significant factors influencing quality of life include age of onset and family history. Longitudinal measurements will enable evaluation of the impact of therapy upon QOL in the Australian context.
Semen static oxidation–reduction potential is not helpful in evaluating male fertility
Authors: Furtado Thiago Pardini , Osadchiy Vadim , Furtado Marcelo Horta
Published: October 2024

Background

Infertility affects a significant percentage of couples worldwide, with male infertility contributing substantially in a considerable number of cases. Research indicates that oxidative stress is a critical factor impacting male fertility.

Objective

To explore the relationship between semen static oxidation–reduction potential (sORP), sperm parameters, and validated biomarkers of oxidative stress in infertile men.

Materials and methods

This cross‐sectional study involved 202 men diagnosed with idiopathic male factor infertility and male partners from couples with unexplained infertility. Multivariable linear regression to query the associations between sORP, sperm parameters, and oxidative aggression biomarkers (lipid peroxidation, mitochondrial membrane potential, annexin V, and sperm DNA fragmentation).

Results

SORP has no linear association with any semen analysis parameter. Furthermore, its relationship with validated biomarkers of oxidative stress was inconsistent. sORP was inversely related to lipid peroxidation (multivariable linear regression coefficient: −0.64), positively associated with sperm DNA fragmentation (multivariable linear regression coefficient: 3.20), and unrelated to mitochondrial membrane potential or annexin V.

Conclusions

There is no clear or consistent relationship between sORP and validated oxidative aggression biomarkers or sperm parameters. Our findings suggest that sORP is unlikely to be helpful in the evaluation of a male with idiopathic infertility.
HabitWalk: A micro‐randomized trial to understand and promote habit formation in physical activity
Authors: Baretta Dario , Gillmann Noemi , Edgren Robert , Inauen Jennifer
Published: October 2024

Habit is a key psychological determinant for physical activity behavior change and maintenance. This study aims to deepen the understanding of habit formation in physical activity and identify promotion strategies. We examined the habit formation trajectory and its relationships with cue‐behavior repetition (a cue‐triggered 15‐minute brisk walk) and unconditional physical activity (daily steps). We also tested whether the behavior change techniques (BCTs) ‘commitment’ and ‘prompts and cues’ promote habit, cue‐behavior repetition, and daily steps within persons. This micro‐randomized trial included a 7‐day preparatory and a 105‐day experimental phase delivered via the HabitWalk app. Participants (N = 24) had a 50% probability of receiving each BCT daily, leading to four conditions. Habit strength was assessed daily using the Self‐Report Behavioral Automaticity Index, while cue‐behavior repetition and steps were measured via an activity tracker. Person‐specific growth functions indicated that habit strength trajectories were highly idiosyncratic. Multilevel models indicated a positive effect of cue‐behavior repetition on habit strength, but not vice versa. The effect of habit strength on daily steps varied by the operationalization of cue‐behavior repetition. Tentative findings suggest that commitment and prompts and cues are effective habit‐promotion strategies when delivered together.
Prostate cancer and solid organ transplantation: patient management and outcomes
Authors: Lazarovich Alon , Kristof Tanya W. , Steadman Shavano , Dahmen Aaron S. , Josephson Michelle A. , Barth Rolf , Morgan Todd M. , Timsit Marc‐Olivier , Eggener Scott
Published: October 2024

Objective

To analyse the management and outcomes of individuals diagnosed with prostate cancer either before or after organ transplantation, as the impact of organ transplantation and associated immunosuppression on the incidence, progression, and mortality of prostate cancer remains an area of substantial clinical interest and uncertainty.

Patients and Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients from two tertiary care centres who had solid organ transplantation and were diagnosed with prostate cancer before or after organ transplantation. Data collected included demographics and clinical information.

Results

The cohort consisted of 110 patients with a median (interquartile range [IQR]) age at prostate cancer diagnosis of 62 (56.6–67.2) years and a median (IQR) age at transplantation of 58.6 (52.7–65.3) years. Renal transplantation was the most common (54%). The median (IQR) prostate‐specific antigen concentration at prostate cancer diagnosis was 6.2 (4.5–10) ng/mL, and the distribution of American Urological Association risk groups was: low risk, 36%; intermediate risk, 50%; and high risk, 14%. In all, 45 (41%) patients were diagnosed with prostate cancer prior to transplantation. Management included radical prostatectomy (RP; 62%), prostate radiotherapy (RT; 13%), and active surveillance (AS; 18%). During a median (IQR) follow‐up of 5.8 (2.5–10) years from prostate cancer diagnosis, one (2%) patient developed metastatic disease. In all, 65 (59%) patients were diagnosed with prostate cancer subsequent to organ transplantation. Management included AS (29%), RT (45%), and RP (15%). During a median (IQR) follow‐up of 5.3 (1–8.4) years, three patients (5%) developed metastatic disease. There were no deaths from prostate cancer.

Conclusion

A diagnosis of localised prostate cancer should not preclude solid organ transplantation, and the presence of a transplant does not appear to substantially impact risk of prostate cancer progression.
A unified EM framework for estimation and inference of normal ogive item response models
Authors: Meng Xiangbin , Xu Gongjun
Published: October 2024

Normal ogive (NO) models have contributed substantially to the advancement of item response theory (IRT) and have become popular educational and psychological measurement models. However, estimating NO models remains computationally challenging. The purpose of this paper is to propose an efficient and reliable computational method for fitting NO models. Specifically, we introduce a novel and unified expectation‐maximization (EM) algorithm for estimating NO models, including two‐parameter, three‐parameter, and four‐parameter NO models. A key improvement in our EM algorithm lies in augmenting the NO model to be a complete data model within the exponential family, thereby substantially streamlining the implementation of the EM iteration and avoiding the numerical optimization computation in the M‐step. Additionally, we propose a two‐step expectation procedure for implementing the E‐step, which reduces the dimensionality of the integration and effectively enables numerical integration. Moreover, we develop a computing procedure for estimating the standard errors (SEs) of the estimated parameters. Simulation results demonstrate the superior performance of our algorithm in terms of its recovery accuracy, robustness, and computational efficiency. To further validate our methods, we apply them to real data from the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA). The results affirm the reliability of the parameter estimates obtained using our method.
MCMC stopping rules in latent variable modelling
Authors: Kwon Sunbeom , Zhang Susu , Köhn Hans Friedrich , Zhang Bo
Published: October 2024

Bayesian analysis relies heavily on the Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) algorithm to obtain random samples from posterior distributions. In this study, we compare the performance of MCMC stopping rules and provide a guideline for determining the termination point of the MCMC algorithm in latent variable models. In simulation studies, we examine the performance of four different MCMC stopping rules: potential scale reduction factor (PSRF), fixed‐width stopping rule, Geweke's diagnostic, and effective sample size. Specifically, we evaluate these stopping rules in the context of the DINA model and the bifactor item response theory model, two commonly used latent variable models in educational and psychological measurement. Our simulation study findings suggest that single‐chain approaches outperform multiple‐chain approaches in terms of item parameter accuracy. However, when it comes to person parameter estimates, the effect of stopping rules diminishes. We caution against relying solely on the univariate PSRF, which is the most popular method, as it may terminate the algorithm prematurely and produce biased item parameter estimates if the cut‐off value is not chosen carefully. Our research offers guidance to practitioners on choosing suitable stopping rules to improve the precision of the MCMC algorithm in models involving latent variables.
Quality of Life in Children With Chronic Health Conditions and Its Contribution to Unmet Supportive Care Needs of Families
Authors: Thomas Sangeetha , Ryan Nicholas P. , Byrne Linda K. , Hendrieckx Christel , White Victoria
Published: October 2024

Background

While theoretical models have established the bidirectional relationship between health and wellbeing of parents and children with chronic health conditions (CHCs), previous work has predominantly emphasised the impact of parent functioning on child outcomes. This study examines how quality of life (QoL) domains in children with CHCs are associated with unmet supportive care needs (SCN) of their parents and explores whether these associations vary by health condition.

Method

Parents of children with congenital heart disease (CHD), type 1 diabetes (T1D) and cancer diagnosed before the age of 12 years and receiving treatment within the last 5 years were eligible. Parents recruited through charity organisations and social media platforms completed a secure, online survey via Qualtrics. The PedsQL examined child QoL across four dimensions: physical, emotional, social and school functioning. A 34‐item survey assessed parents' unmet SCN in the previous month across six need domains (e.g., care and informational). Linear regressions examined associations between child QoL and unmet SCN domains and moderation analyses determined whether associations varied as a function of CHC.

Results

The study included 186 parents (age range 25–56 years) of children diagnosed with various CHCs (52% CHD; 27% T1D, 21% cancer). The child's emotional functioning was inversely related to all unmet SCN domains, social functioning was inversely related to three domains (physical and social; support; financial), school functioning was inversely related to two domains (physical and social; care), and child's physical functioning was not associated with any SCN domains. Only the association between child school functioning and unmet care needs was significantly moderated by CHC type (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Poorer emotional functioning in children with a CHC is a key factor in determining parents unmet SCN. Larger studies are required to replicate these findings and inform design of interventions addressing QoL and unmet SCN in families of children with common CHCs.
Ultra‐early stage lower‐grade gliomas: How can we define and differentiate these easily misdiagnosed gliomas through intraoperative molecular diagnosis
Authors: Han Zhe , Wang Qingtong , Li Jia , Chi Huizhong , Ma Caizhi , Jia Deze , Qi Mei , Li Xueen , Zhang Kailiang , Feng Zichao , Xue Hao , Li Gang
Published: October 2024

Background

Some lower‐grade gliomas (LGG) are difficult to distinguish morphologically from glial cell proliferation or inflammatory changes during surgery, leading to a high risk of incorrect diagnosis. It is crucial to differentiate between the two for making surgical decisions. We define these critical cases as “ultra early stage lower‐grade gliomas (UES‐LGG)”.

Methods

We analyzed 11 out of 13 cases diagnosed with “gliosis” or “inflammatory changes” during surgery who tested positive for isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH). Additionally, we conducted qRT‐PCR detection on 35 samples diagnosed with LGG during surgery and analyzed their DNA content within an effective circulating threshold range to infer the critical value between UES‐LGG and LGG. We conducted experiments using five standardized samples to infer the limited range of accurate detection of UES‐LGG during surgery.

Results

In the comparative analysis of 11 samples and 35 samples, it was found that while there was no significant difference in the average DNA detection concentration between the two groups (159.36 ± 83.3 ng/μL and 146.83 ± 122.43 ng/μL), there was a notable statistical variance in the detection threshold for positive mutations (31.78 ± 1.14 and 26.14 ± 2.69, respectively). This suggests that the IDH mutation rate may serve as an indicator for differentiation between the two groups. Subsequently, DNA was extracted from standardized IDH mutant samples and subjected to gradient dilution for detection purposes. The results indicated a consistent increase in detection threshold as detection concentration decreased. When the detection concentration fell below <0.1 ng/μL, it became impossible to carry out effective threshold range detections. To further identify the precise detection interval, we conducted gradient division once again and sought to simulate the functional relationship between DNA copy number and cycle threshold within this interval. The research revealed that when the minimum detection concentration exceeded 250 copies/μL, a 100% detection rate could be achieved.

Conclusions

This article defines UES‐LGG as a tumor type easily misdiagnosed in clinical practice due to its extremely low positivity rate during surgery. The popularization of qRT‐PCR based intraoperative molecular diagnosis greatly reduces errors caused by manual detection and improves disease detection rates during surgery. It provides a theoretical basis for more accurate surgical plans for surgeons.
Efficacy and Safety of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation as an Add‐On Trial Treatment for Acute Bipolar Depression Patients With Suicidal Ideation
Authors: Wang Dandan , Guo Xiaonan , Huang Qi , Wang Zhong , Chen Jingkai , Hu Shaohua
Published: October 2024

Aims

Bipolar depression poses an overwhelming suicide risk. We aimed to examine the efficacy and safety of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) combined with quetiapine in bipolar patients as a suicidal intervention.

Methods

In a single‐center, double‐blind, treatment‐naive bipolar depression patients with suicidal ideation were randomly assigned to quetiapine in combination with either active (n = 16) or sham (n = 15) tDCS over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex for three consecutive weeks. The 30‐min, 2‐mA tDCS was conducted twice a day on the weekday of the first week and then once a day on the weekdays of the two following weeks. Primary efficacy outcome measure was the change in the Beck Scale for Suicidal Ideation (BSSI). Secondary outcomes included changes on the 17‐item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS‐17) and Montgomery‐Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS). Outcome was evaluated on Day 3 and weekend. Safety outcome was based on the reported adverse reactions.

Results

Active tDCS was superior to sham tDCS on the BSSI at Day 3 and tended to sustain every weekend during the treatment process, compared to baseline. However, no difference between active and sham in HDRS‐17 and MADRS was found. Response and remission rate also supported the antisuicide effect of tDCS, with higher response and remission rate in BSSI, but no antidepressant effect, compared to sham, over time. Regarding safety, active tDCS was well tolerated and all the adverse reactions reported were mild and limited to transient scalp discomfort.

Conclusion

The tDCS was effective as an antisuicide treatment for acute bipolar depression patients with suicidal ideation, with minimal side effects reported.
Implementation of music in the perioperative standard care of colorectal surgery (IMPROVE study)
Authors: Kakar Ellaha , van Ruler Oddeke , Hoogteijling Bas , de Graaf Eelco J. R. , Ista Erwin , Lange Johan F. , Jeekel Johannes , Klimek Markus
Published: October 2024

Aim

Patients undergoing surgery experience perioperative anxiety and pain. Music has been shown to reduce perioperative anxiety, pain and medication requirement. This study assessed the feasibility and effectiveness of implementing a perioperative music intervention.

Method

A prospective pre‐ and post‐implementation pilot study was conducted to assess adherence to the intervention and the initial effect of music on postoperative pain scores (Numerical Rating Scale, 0–10) compared to a control group. Secondary outcomes encompassed pain scores throughout hospital admission, anxiety levels, medication usage, complications and hospital stay length.

Results

Adherence to the music intervention was preoperative 95.2%, intraoperative 95.7%, postoperative 31.9% and overall 29.7%. The intervention did influence postoperative pain. Patient's willingness to receive music was high (73%), they appreciated the intervention (median 8.0, interquartile range 7.0–9.0) and healthcare professionals were willing to apply the intervention. Music significantly reduced postoperative anxiety (2.0 vs. 3.0, p = 0.02) and the consumption of benzodiazepines on the first postoperative day (number of patients: zero [0%] vs. five [10%], p = 0.04).

Conclusion

Implementation of music resulted in reduced postoperative anxiety and decreased consumption of benzodiazepines, and the strategy was feasible, but adjustments are needed to improve postoperative adherence. Both patients and healthcare professionals had a positive attitude towards the intervention.
Noninvasive Assessment in Takotsubo Syndrome: A Diagnostic Challenge
Authors: Amicone Sara , Impellizzeri Andrea , Tattilo Francesco Pio , Ryabenko Khrystyna , Asta Claudio , Belà Rebecca , Suma Nicole , Canton Lisa , Fedele Damiano , Bertolini Davide , Bodega Francesca , Cavallo Daniele , Marinelli Virginia , Ciarlantini Mariachiara , Pastore Giuseppe , Iuorio Ornella Di , Alvarez Marcello Casuso , Bavuso Leonardo Luca , Salerno Jessica , Vasumini Nicolò , Maida Angelo , Armillotta Matteo , Angeli Francesco , Sansonetti Angelo , Bergamaschi Luca , Foà Alberto , Squeri Angelo , Dall'Ara Gianni , Pizzi Carmine
Published: October 2024

Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) is a clinical syndrome characterized by a transient left ventricular dysfunction whose diagnosis can be challenging due to its resemblance to acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Despite the growing recognition of TTS, acute complications and long‐term mortality rates are comparable to those observed in AMI patients. In this context, a systematic diagnostic approach is imperative for an accurate patient assessment, with due consideration of the distinctive characteristics and optimal timing of each imaging modality. Coronary angiography with ventriculography may be reserved for cases presenting with ST‐segment elevation, whereas in all other cases, the use of multimodality noninvasive imaging allows for a comprehensive evaluation of typical diagnostic features and detection of acute complications while also providing prognostic insights. The aim of this review is to evaluate the current research on non‐invasive modalities and to propose a diagnostic algorithm that will facilitate the identification and management of TTS.
Extending Species‐Area Relationships Into the Realm of Ecoacoustics: The Soundscape‐Area Relationship
Authors: Luypaert Thomas , Bueno Anderson S. , Haugaasen Torbjørn , Peres Carlos A.
Published: October 2024

The rise in species richness with area is one of the few ironclad ecological relationships. Yet, little is known about the spatial scaling of alternative dimensions of diversity. Here, we provide empirical evidence for a relationship between the richness of acoustic traits emanating from a landscape, or soundscape richness, and island area, which we term the SoundScape‐Area Relationship (SSAR). We show a positive relationship between the gamma soundscape richness and island area. This relationship breaks down at the smallest spatial scales, indicating a small‐island effect. Moreover, we demonstrate a positive spatial scaling of the plot‐scale alpha soundscape richness, but not the beta soundscape turnover, suggesting a direct effect of species on acoustic trait diversity. We conclude that the general scaling of biodiversity can be extended into the realm of ecoacoustics, implying soundscape metrics are sensitive to fundamental ecological patterns and useful in disentangling their complex mechanistic drivers.
Exponential or Unimodal Relationships Between Nighttime Ecosystem Respiration and Temperature at the Eddy Covariance Flux Tower Sites
Authors: Meng Cheng , Xiao Xiangming , Wagle Pradeep , Zhang Chenchen , Pan Li , Pan Baihong , Qin Yuanwei , Newman Gregory S.
Published: October 2024

Ecosystem respiration is a key flux in the terrestrial carbon cycle and is affected substantially by temperature. This work analysed the time series data of nighttime net ecosystem exchange of carbon dioxide (NEEnight) from 196 FLUXNET2015 sites to re‐evaluate the relationships between NEEnight and temperature. A total of 93 sites (48%) were identified to have a unimodal relationship between NEEnight and temperature. Site‐specific apparent optimum temperature parameters were then estimated at these sites. We further assessed the impacts of using exponential or unimodal equations on NEEnight predictions. The predicted NEEnight values at high temperatures were substantially higher from the exponential‐type equations (mean: ~200%) than from the unimodal equation (mean: ~30%), compared to the observed NEEnight. This study calls for using a unimodal equation to predict NEEnight (often considered as nighttime ecosystem respiration, ERnight), which could substantially improve the accuracy and reduce uncertainty in ER estimates, in particular under the scenario of global warming.
Neonicotinoids Impact All Aspects of Bird Life: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Molenaar Elke , Viechtbauer Wolfgang , van de Crommenacker Janske , Kingma Sjouke A.
Published: October 2024

Worldwide, bird populations are declining dramatically. This is especially the case in intensely used agricultural areas where the application of neonicotinoid insecticides is thought to—unintendedly—cause a cascade of negative impacts throughout food webs. Additionally, there could be direct (sub‐) lethal impacts of neonicotinoids on birds, but to date there is no comprehensive quantitative assessment to confirm or rule out this possibility. Therefore, we use a meta‐analytical approach synthesising 1612 effect sizes from 49 studies and show that neonicotinoids consistently harm bird health, behaviour, reproduction, and survival. Thus, in addition to reduced food availability, the negative direct effects of exposure to neonicotinoids likely contribute to bird population declines globally. Our outcomes are pivotal to consider in future risk assessments and pesticide policy: despite localised bans, the metabolites and residues of neonicotinoids remain present in the environment and in birds and will thus have long‐lasting direct effects on both the individual and the population levels.
One‐year follow‐up of neurobehavioral therapy in functional seizures or epilepsy with traumatic brain injury: A nonrandomized controlled trial
Authors: Van Patten Ryan , Blum Andrew , Correia Stephen , Philip Noah S. , Allendorfer Jane B. , Gaston Tyler E. , Goodman Adam , Grayson Leslie P. , Tocco Krista , Vogel Valerie , Martin Amber , Fry Samantha , Bolding Mark , Ver Hoef Lawrence , Baird Grayson L. , Szaflarski Jerzy P. , LaFrance W. Curt
Published: October 2024

Objective

Patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) often present with seizures (functional and/or epileptic), but treatments for patients with TBI and seizures are limited. We examined treatment phase and 1‐year post‐enrollment outcomes following neurobehavioral therapy (NBT) for patients with TBI + functional seizures (FS) and TBI + epilepsy.

Methods

In this multicenter, prospective, three‐group, nonrandomized, controlled trial, with 1‐year post‐enrollment follow‐up, three cohorts of adults were recruited: TBI + video‐electroencephalography (EEG)‐confirmed FS (n = 89), TBI + EEG‐confirmed epilepsy (n = 29), and chart/history‐confirmed TBI without seizures (n = 75). Exclusion criteria were recent psychotic or self‐injurious behavior, current suicidal ideation, pending litigation or long‐term disability, active substance use disorder, and inability to participate in study procedures. TBI + FS and TBI + epilepsy groups completed NBT for seizures, an evidence‐based, 12‐session, multimodal psychotherapy, whereas TBI without seizures participants received standard medical care. The primary outcome was change in seizure frequency; secondary outcomes were changes in mental health, TBI‐related symptoms, disability, and quality of life.

Results

Reductions in average monthly seizures occurred during treatment in TBI + FS participants (p = .002) and were significant from baseline (mean = 16.75; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 11.44–24.53) to 12 months post‐enrollment (mean = 7.28, 95% CI = 4.37–12.13, p = .002, d = .38). Monthly seizures decreased during treatment in TBI + epilepsy participants (p = .002); reductions were not statistically significant from baseline (mean = 2.38, 95% CI = 1.12–5.04) to 12‐month postenrollment (mean = .98, 95% CI = .40–2.42, p = .07, d = .22). Regarding treatment‐phase changes in secondary outcome measures, TBI + FS participants improved significantly on 10 of 19 variables (52.6%), TBI + epilepsy participants improved on five of 19 (26.3%), and TBI‐only comparisons improved on only one of 19 (5.3%).

Significance

NBT benefited patients with TBI + FS and TBI + epilepsy. Improvements were demonstrated at 1 year post‐enrollment in those with TBI + FS. NBT may be a clinically useful treatment for patients with seizures.
Quantitative Synthesis of Microbe‐Driven Acclimation and Adaptation in Wild Vertebrates
Authors: Martin Bideguren Garazi , Razgour Orly , Alberdi Antton
Published: October 2024

Microorganisms associated with animals harbour a unique set of functional traits pivotal for the normal functioning of their hosts. This realisation has led researchers to hypothesise that animal‐associated microbial communities may boost the capacity of their hosts to acclimatise and adapt to environmental changes, two eco‐evolutionary processes with significant applied relevance. Aiming to assess the importance of microorganisms for wild vertebrate conservation, we conducted a quantitative systematic review to evaluate the scientific evidence for the contribution of gut microorganisms to the acclimation and adaptation capacity of wild vertebrate hosts. After screening 1974 publications, we scrutinised the 109 studies that met the inclusion criteria based on 10 metrics encompassing study design, methodology and reproducibility. We found that the studies published so far were not able to resolve the contribution of gut microorganisms due to insufficient study design and research methods for addressing the hypothesis. Our findings underscore the limited application to date of microbiome knowledge in vertebrate conservation and management, highlighting the need for a paradigm shift in research approaches. Considering these results, we advocate for a shift from observational studies to experimental manipulations, where fitness or related indicators are measured, coupled with an update in molecular techniques used to analyse microbial functions. In addition, closer collaboration with conservation managers and practitioners from the inception of the project is needed to encourage meaningful application of microbiome knowledge in adaptive wildlife conservation management.