bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formalising human resource practices in a family-centric business: the case of Precision Engineering
Authors: Rath Anshuman , Mishra Sumita
Published: March 2023

Learning outcomes

After studying the case, the students will be able to: 1. understand the business and existing HR practices at Precision Engineering; 2. evaluate the factors affecting business that may require the company to formalise its HR practices; 3. create recruitment and selection-related solutions for HR 2.0 using appropriate models and theory to aid the company meet its business goals; 4. create training needs identification and evaluation practices for HR 2.0 using appropriate models and theory to aid the company meet its business goals; and 5. create performance planning and review-related solutions for HR 2.0 using appropriate models and theory to aid the company meet its business goals. The case helps students objectively assess HR practices related to three core verticals – recruitment and selection; training; and performance management systems. It also enables them to reassess these practices with the help of specific metrics and models.

Case overview/synopsis

Precision Engineering was a manufacturer of machined metal components in the Indian automotive components industry. It had been a family-run business since its inception in 1995. Precision was awarded the prestigious Automotive Component Manufacturers of India award in 2020 for excellence in HR. Ms Sakshi Kapoor, General Manager of Innovation, was ecstatic at the receipt of this award. She, however, was thoughtful about the informal human resource (HR) practices at the company. The top management had announced an aggressive growth plan and advised Ms Kapoor to leverage HR practices to facilitate these plans. Recruitment and selection, employee training and performance management systems needed to be formalised on a priority basis to strategically aid the future business agenda at Precision. Ms Kapoor faced the challenge of preparing the roadmap of HR 2.0 while preserving the employee-centric beliefs at Precision. The case initiates a discussion to achieve this goal by adopting suitable HR metrics and models.

Complexity academic level

It should be taught in the core course on Human Resource Management for first-year Masters in Business Administration (MBA) students. Alternatively, it could be used in elective courses such as Strategic Human Resource Management, Training and Development and Performance Management Systems for second-year MBA students.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 6: Human Resource Management.
The nexus of human resource management, corporate social responsibility and sustainable performance in upscale hotels: a mixed-method study
Authors: Ishaq Muhammad Ishtiaq , Sarwar Huma , Franzoni Simona , Palermo Ofelia
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Considering the significance of the human resource management (HRM) and corporate social responsibility (CSR) relationship, the aim of this research is twofold: first is to measure the cultural differences between HRM, CSR and sustainable performance relationship (study 1) and second is to identify the how HRM instigates CSR and sustainable performance (study 2) in the hospitality industry of UK and Pakistan.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed-method approach was used to collect the qualitative and quantitative data from upscale hotels. In Study 1, a multi-respondent and time-lagged strategy was employed to collect the data from 162 Pakistani and 290 UK upscale hotels. In Study 2, in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted to understand the HRM–CSR–performance nexus.

Findings

The results of Study 1 highlight the significant cultural differences in the relationships of HRM–CSR–performance, while Study 2 explains that ethical culture, shared objectives, transparency, training and development, and economic incentives are the factors that push the employees to take part in CSR-related activities and attaining higher sustainable performance.

Originality/value

This study addresses the debate on the difference between cross-cultural studies related to implementing Western theories in shaping, developing and implementing business strategies, including CSR, HRM and sustainable performance in an Asian context.
Effect of synovial fluid constituent on the tribological behaviors of UHMWPE-CoCrMo alloy contact pair
Authors: Tan Qin , Zhang Yali , Li Xinle , Pu Jian , Yang Shu , Jin Zhongmin
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This study aims to systematically investigate the tribological behaviors of metal and polyethylene using lubricants composed of four synovial fluid (SF) components. In addition, the changes in protein conformation during wear were analyzed to establish the correlation between protein conformation and tribological properties.

Design/methodology/approach

A pin-on-disk tester with multidirectional sliding motion was used for tribological properties observation between metal and polyethylene pairs. Simulated SFs with four main constituents were used as the testing lubricants. Differential scanning calorimetry and Raman were used to characterize the changes in protein conformation during wear.

Findings

The coupling of lipids and hyaluronic acid further suppressed protein denaturation. The protein structures of the adsorption film and the ensnared protein chains in the friction zone were maintained to a certain extent, thus improving the friction and wear of polyethylene.

Originality/value

These findings established the correlation between protein conformation and friction and wear, promoting the understanding of the lubrication mechanism of artificial joints.
Continuous usage intention for digital library systems among students at higher learning institutions: moderating role of academic involvement
Authors: Misra Pankaj , Chopra Gaurav , Bhaskar Preeti
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This research work aims to study the continuous usage intention of students for digital library systems in higher learning institutions (HLI). Additionally, keeping in mind the lack of focus on academic involvement of students in existing studies, this research work attempts to examine the moderating role of academic involvement in making up the continuous usage intention for digital library systems among students at HLI.

Design/methodology/approach

Cross-sectional survey design is used in this study. Target population is students pursuing postgraduate studies and using digital library systems at private universities in the state of Uttarakhand, India. The Stratified random sampling method is used wherein each private university forms one stratum.

Findings

The results suggest that the students' continuous usage intention for digital library systems is significantly influenced by dimensions of digital library system quality, mediated by user satisfaction. Further, the level of academic involvement of students exerts moderating impact between dimensions of digital library system quality and user satisfaction; however, it d oes not exist between user satisfaction and their continuous usage intention.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to the literature on academic involvement of students by highlighting its importance in the process of continuous usage intention. It also proposes a holistic conceptual framework for continuous usage intention for digital library systems among students and moderating impact of academic involvement. Being cross-sectional survey-based research, this study has certain limitations. Since responses were obtained at a single point in time, variation in respondents' behaviour could not be captured.

Practical implications

The findings of the study can be helpful to the HLI, academic librarians, teachers, digital library systems service provider companies and government regulatory authorities. HLI need to put more effort into procuring subscriptions to reputed publications of e-books, e-research papers, e-magazines, e-reports, etc. for making digital library systems more beneficial for the students. Academic librarians need to be effortful towards building students' satisfaction through constantly upgrading software and systems and active interaction with students. Digital library systems service provider companies can also collaborate to customize their digital resources for different types of academic programs. The government can partnership with private companies for providing digital library systems in HLI.

Originality/value

This research work is the first of its kind in terms of studying the role of academic involvement of students for purpose of evaluating continuous usage intention for digital library systems among students studying in Indian HLI.
FDI, disinvestment and growth: an appraisal of Bhutanese economy
Authors: Ansari Mohammad Sultan Ahmad , Khan Shad Ahmad
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to appraise the influence and challenges of direct disinvestment or through foreign direct investment (FDI) in the Kingdom of Bhutan, particularly to identify the inflow of disinterment post pandemic and how it can be improved.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors investigated the influence of FDI on Bhutan’s economy by analyzing secondary published data by Asian Development Bank and government agencies of Bhutan. To find out the role FDI has played in the growth of the Bhutanese Economy.

Findings

The FDI is not playing a major role in the nation’s economy so far. However, its potential cannot be ignored as there is a need for foreign currency and expertise in the country. Furthermore, government policies are directly influencing the inflow of foreign exchange that affects the Bhutan’s economy. FDI has not increased considerably because of self-imposed restrictions blocking government policies.

Research limitations/implications

This research is based on the data collected from secondary sources, which could be considered as the main limitation of this study. The Himalayan kingdom is not much open to the outside world in terms of the publication and availability of the data. Researchers put their best effort in retrieving secondary data from authentic sources.

Practical implications

This research has direct implications from an institutional perspective on the government policies and procedures. This study throws light on the elements that might help in improving Bhutan’s economy, employment and productivity for an overall development of economy.

Social implications

Bhutan and similar countries need to understand the pros and cons of having FDIs. This study might help the government and the civil society to understand the trends FDI has triggered in the nation over last 30 years, and will help them to make appropriate policies and regulations dealing with foreign investments.

Originality/value

This paper underwrites the influence of disinvestment on Bhutan’s economy, which can revolutionize business, entrepreneurship and institutions. This research was conducted by analyzing secondary data released by authorized agencies, which indicated the lower inflow of foreign exchange and how to improve further.
Netiquette rules in online learning through the lens of digital citizenship scale in the post-corona era
Authors: Al-Khatib Tahani
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the trending term: “Netiquette” as an important element in the effective digital citizenship. The research suggests a systematic framework of netiquette rules in the field of online education based on the classical core rules of netiquette and according to the digital citizenship scale (DCS). The research also studies the corresponding responsibilities of both educators and students to raise awareness towards using technology in a balanced, safe, smart and ethical way as the shift towards the digital activities increased significantly in the post-corona time.

Design/methodology/approach

The research used the qualitative data that were based on the everyday observation and analysis of the online education experience at the university of Jordan in the academic year 2020/2021; the online group discussions of students and teachers; and investigating the guidelines of the online learning netiquette rules in various academic institutes. Comparative analysis was conducted to merge and eliminate redundant rules and to add sub rules, and then to cluster them into groups. The suggested clustered groups were distributed into the classical core rules outline of netiquette. In each core rule, the sub rules were reclassified and recategorized according to the DCS by studying the complexity levels and their corresponding factors. The suggested framework updates and adds DCS levels and factors considering the exceptional experience of online education through the pandemic.

Findings

The research finds that “Netiquette” had been neglected in cyber ethics literature, and so it has to be rediscovered through the lens of digital citizenship that becomes very noticeable issue in the post-COVID era. So, the research presents a systematic framework that outlines more than 150 netiquette sub rules in the field of online education, and that were clustered according to DCS and the classical core rules of netiquette. It also adds a new factor to the bottom level of DCS which is the primarily skills and traits, and also updates the internet and political activism fac-tor by adding the social perspective.

Originality/value

A novel classification of the classical core rules of netiquette was proposed in the field of online education to serve as a spectrum of identifying the complexity of digital citizenship levels and factors. This research can be a starting point of more works on netiquette research in online education and on other fields such as online business meetings, social media networking and online gaming.
Molecular assessment of dietary variation in neighbouring primate groups
Authors: Schneider Judith , Brun Loïc , Taberlet Pierre , Fumagalli Luca , van de Waal Erica
Published: March 2023

Facing rapid environmental changes and anthropogenic habitat destruction, animal behavioural plasticity becomes an adaptive potential that needs to be considered in conservation strategies along with, for example, genetic diversity. Here, we evaluate to what extent non‐invasive environmental DNA (eDNA) methods may contribute to the assessment of intraspecies behavioural plasticity in terms of foraging behaviour.

We analysed DNA metabarcoding data for plant components in the diet of four neighbouring groups of wild vervet monkeys Chlorocebus pygerythrus to identify intergroup variation (IGV). The faecal samples considered for the analyses were limited to the summer season to minimise the impact of seasonality. Each sample was attributed by observation to individuals with known life history data. A plant survey was conducted in each group home range during the study period to account for environmental variation.

We observed mixed results when testing whether IGV in plant consumption was greater than intragroup variation, indicating that the influence of social dynamics must be considered. Intragroup variation was positively correlated with group size. We observed IGV in diet composition among all groups as well as in some pairwise comparisons. We found significant dietary differences between two group pairs when considering only adult females. Lastly, we observed IGV in foraging of specific plants that were not explained by their distribution, suggesting behavioural differences in selectivity between groups.

Our study system and organism, being a highly social and non‐threatened primate species, with constant gene flow and overlapping territories between groups, provides an ideal model to evaluate the usage of eDNA‐based methods to better understand the impact of social factors on IGV. Our results highlight the need to consider social and demographic factors, the impact of which remains complicated to disentangle from environmental factors. However, we emphasise the great potential for studying social groups using eDNA and that such studies are needed to better understand intraspecific behavioural plasticity in wild populations.
Evaluation of the use of a nursing diagnosis Risk for Falls in the Community of Madrid (Spain) Primary Care System
Authors: Domínguez‐Fernández Silvia , Ajejas‐Bazán María Julia , Pérez‐Rivas Francisco Javier
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to describe the use of the nursing diagnosis Risk for Falls in Primary Care System of the Community of Madrid.

Methods

A retrospective review of the clinical histories was carried out in 262 health centers from January 2005 to December 2015. The study population are the patients who have recorded in their electronic health record the nursing diagnosis Risk for Falls.

Findings

Frequency of use of the Risk for Falls ND in the Community of Madrid was 53,340 diagnoses, increasing from 650 nursing diagnosis in 2005 to 14,695 in 2015. NOC Nursing Outcomes total identified were 109,145, which represents an average of 2.05 NOC Nursing Outcomes per diagnosis. NOC Nursing Outcomes frequently appeared as follows: Fall Prevention Behavior (35.9%), Safe Home Environment (11.3%), and Risk Control (10.5%). NIC Nursing Interventions total identified were 104,293, representing an average of 1.96 NIC nursing interventions per diagnosis. NIC Nursing Interventions frequently appeared as follows: Fall Prevention (45.9%), Environmental Management: Safety (27%), and Risk Identification (5.8%).

Conclusions

Nursing diagnosis of Risk for Falls and the care process related to this diagnosis is starting to be used by the primary care nurses of the Community of Madrid.

Implication for nursing practice

Risk factors related to the nursing diagnosis of risk for falls identified in our study can be addressed with activities that nurses must implement to prevent falls. Nursing methodology in general and specifically the diagnosis of risk for falls must be included in guides and protocols for the prevention of falls, and its use should be promoted by primary care nurses.
Abundance and detection of feral cats decreases after severe fire on Kangaroo Island, Australia
Authors: Hohnen Rosemary , James Alex I. , Jennings Paul , Murphy Brett P. , Berris Karleah , Legge Sarah M. , Dickman Chris R. , Woinarski John C. Z.
Published: March 2023

Predation by feral cats (Felis catus) has caused the extinction of many native species in Australia and globally. There is growing evidence that the impacts of feral cats can be amplified in post‐fire environments, as cats are drawn to hunt in or around recently burnt areas and are also more effective hunters in open habitats. In 2018–2019, we established arrays of camera traps to estimate the abundance of feral cats on Kangaroo Island, South Australia. Much of the island (including five of our seven survey sites) was subsequently burnt in a severe wildfire (December 2019–February 2020). We re‐sampled the sites 3–8 months post‐fire (seven sites) and 11–12 months post‐fire (three sites). At two unburnt sites sampled post‐fire, it was possible to produce density estimates of cats using a spatially explicit capture–recapture approach. Where estimating density was not possible (due to low detections or individual cats not being distinguishable), the number of individuals and percentage of trap nights with detections was compared between the sampling periods. Some low‐level cat control occurred within 2 km of three of the seven arrays (all within the burn scar) within 3 months of the fire. Across the five burnt sites, there was a decline in cat detections post‐fire (including those without post‐fire cat control). At 3–8 months post‐fire, there was, on average, a 57% reduction in the number of individual cats, and a 65% reduction in the number of nights with cat detections, relative to pre‐fire levels. Although cat detections declined following the fire, reduced population sizes of prey species and reduced cover as a result of the fire might still mean that cat predation is a threat to some surviving prey species. Management that reduces feral cat predation pressure on wildlife following wildfire should enhance the likelihood of post‐fire wildlife persistence and recovery.
Conducting online ethnography during COVID‐19: Methodological reflections from a kindergarten classroom
Authors: Buckband Cory A.
Published: March 2023

In this reflection, I contextualize my own experiences conducting educational ethnography in a synchronous online kindergarten classroom during the COVID‐19 pandemic. I highlight how conducting research in online classrooms transforms ethnographic research methodologies and concepts such as the field site. I offer four suggestions, derived from my experiences and guided by an un‐sited approach to this hybrid online field site, to conceptualize a more fluid approach for studying online schooling in general.
Do metacognitive beliefs predict rumination and psychological distress independently of illness representations in adults with diabetes mellitus? A prospective mediation study
Authors: Cherry Mary Gemma , Brown Stephen L. , Purewal Rebecca , Fisher Peter L.
Published: March 2023

Objective

Adults with Diabetes Mellitus (DM) experience high levels of depression and anxiety that are not always effectively ameliorated by current therapeutic approaches. The Self‐Regulatory Executive Function (S‐REF) model, which underpins metacognitive therapy (MCT), posits that depression and anxiety become persistent when stored metacognitive beliefs guide an individual to respond to common thoughts and feelings in a certain way. We hypothesized that (i) metacognitive beliefs would predict depression and anxiety independently of participants' representations of their illness; and (ii) rumination would mediate independent prediction of depression and anxiety by metacognitive beliefs.

Design

A prospective mediation study.

Methods

Four hundred and forty‐one adults with DM (Types 1 and 2) completed a two time‐point survey. Metacognitive beliefs, illness representations and rumination were measured at baseline, and depression and anxiety measured at baseline and 6‐months later. Data were analysed using structural equation modelling. Baseline illness representations, depression and anxiety were used as control variables.

Results

A structural equation analysis showed potential mediation, by baseline rumination, of any effects of baseline metacognitive variables on 6‐month distress in Type 1 and 2 diabetes samples. Significant standardized coefficients for relationships between the metacognitive latent variable and rumination were .67 (Type 1) and .75 (Type 2) and between rumination and distress of .36 and .43, respectively. These effects were independent of direct and independent effects of illness representation variables.

Conclusions

Findings are consistent with metacognitive beliefs playing a key role in depression and anxiety by increasing the likelihood of rumination in adults with DM. MCT may be an effective intervention for this population, subsequent to further longitudinal testing of the S‐REF model.
Big family, warm home, and lots of friends: Pteronotus large colonies affect species richness and occupation inside caves
Authors: Barros Jennifer S. , Bernard Enrico
Published: March 2023

Roosts are essential for the survival of most animals. Due to homothermic requirements, mammals are particularly dependent on roost quality and availability. Bats select their roosts in a species‐specific way, likely related to species´ different physiological and adaptive needs. Unlike species whose individuals roost solitarily, roost selection is critical for bats forming large colonies due to the requirements for maintaining thousands of individuals in a single shelter. This is the case of Pteronotus (Mormoopidae), whose colonies reach hundreds of thousands of bats. Using captures, bioacoustics, and automated censuses, we evaluated how cave size, ceiling characteristics, environmental stability, temperature, and humidity influence the formation of exceptionally large colonies, species richness and composition in caves in north‐eastern Brazil. We expected that colonies would be positively related to cave size and stability, internal cave selection would be species‐specific, but larger and more environmentally stable caves would have higher richness. Pteronotus colonies were positively related to cave size, stability, and ceiling characteristics, and their presence strongly influenced cave temperature variation. Species richness was positively correlated to a cave stability index. Species other than Pteronotus preferred different climatic and ceiling characteristics. We detected an indirect influence of the large colonies of Pteronotus on the species richness and occupation inside caves. On the other hand, such caves favor species coexistence, as they offer a range of microenvironments, reducing niche overlap in their interior. Pteronotus gymnonotus and Pteronotus personatus are both key‐ and umbrella‐species for cave ecosystems, stressing the need for specific conservation strategies in Brazil.

Abstract in Portuguese is available with online material.
A single‐chain variable fragment‐anticancer lytic peptide (scFv‐ACLP) fusion protein for targeted cancer treatment
Authors: Zhang Rui , Pei Pengfei , Wang Yifan , Guo Quanqiang , Luo Shi‐Zhong , Chen Long
Published: March 2023

Antibody‐directed drugs for targeted cancer treatment have become a hot topic in new anticancer drug development; however, antibody‐fused therapeutic peptides were rarely documented. Herein, we designed a fusion protein with a cetuximab‐derived single‐chain variable fragment targeting epidermal growth factor receptor (anti‐EGFR scFv) and the anticancer lytic peptide (ACLP) ZXR2, connected by a linker (G4S)3 and MMP2 cleavage site. The anti‐EGFR scFv‐ZXR2 recombinant protein showed specific anticancer activity on EGFR‐overexpressed cancer cell lines in a concentration‐ and time‐dependent manner, as it can bind to EGFR on cancer cell surfaces. This fusion protein caused cell membrane lysis as ZXR2, and showed improved stability in serum compared with ZXR2. These results suggest that scFv‐ACLP fusion proteins may be potential anticancer drug candidates for targeted cancer treatment, which also provide a feasible idea for targeted drug design.
An evaluation of adverse drug reactions and outcomes attributed to kratom in the US Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System from January 2004 through September 2021
Authors: Li Xiaotong , Ndungu Patrick , Taneja Sanya B. , Chapin Maryann R. , Egbert Susan B. , Akenapalli Krishi , Paine Mary F. , Kane‐Gill Sandra L. , Boyce Richard D.
Published: March 2023

Kratom is a widely used Asian botanical that has gained popularity in the United States due to a perception that it can treat pain, anxiety, and opioid withdrawal symptoms. The American Kratom Association estimates 10–16 million people use kratom. Kratom‐associated adverse drug reactions (ADRs) continue to be reported and raise concerns about the safety profile of kratom. However, studies are lacking that describe the overall pattern of kratom‐associated adverse events and quantify the association between kratom and adverse events. ADRs reported to the US Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System from January 2004 through September 2021 were used to address these knowledge gaps. Descriptive analysis was conducted to analyze kratom‐related adverse reactions. Conservative pharmacovigilance signals based on observed‐to‐expected ratios with shrinkage were estimated by comparing kratom to all other natural products and drugs. Based on 489 deduplicated kratom‐related ADR reports, users were young (mean age 35.5 years), and more often male (67.5%) than female patients (23.5%). Cases were predominantly reported since 2018 (94.2%). Fifty‐two disproportionate reporting signals in 17 system‐organ‐class categories were generated. The observed/reported number of kratom‐related accidental death reports was 63‐fold greater than expected. There were eight strong signals related to addiction or drug withdrawal. An excess proportion of ADR reports were about kratom‐related drug complaints, toxicity to various agents, and seizures. Although further research is needed to assess the safety of kratom, clinicians and consumers should be aware that real‐world evidence points to potential safety threats.
Defining Malaysia's health research ethics system through a stakeholder driven approach
Authors: Tackett Sean , Ng Chirk Jenn , Sugarman Jeremy , Daniel Esther Gnanamalar Sarojini , Gopalan Nishakanthi , Tivyashinee Tivyashinee , Kamarulzaman Adeeba , Ali Joseph
Published: March 2023

The need to understand the systems that support ethical health research has long been recognized, but there are limited descriptions of actual health research ethics (HRE) systems. Using participatory network mapping methods, we empirically defined Malaysia's HRE system. 13 Malaysian stakeholders identified 4 overarching and 25 specific HRE system functions and 35 actors internal and 3 external to the Malaysian HRE system responsible for those functions. Functions requiring the most attention were: advising on legislation related to HRE; optimizing research value to society; and defining standards for HRE oversight. Internal actors with the greatest potential for more influence were: the national network of research ethics committees; non‐institution‐based research ethics committees; and research participants. The World Health Organization, an external actor, had the largest untapped potential for influence overall. In summary, this stakeholder‐driven process identified HRE system functions and actors that could be targeted to increase HRE system capacity.
What are we talking about when we talk about the (post)secular? Recentering mutual participation and a commitment to communicability in scholarly discussions of contemporary religions
Authors: Robinson Matthew Ryan
Published: March 2023

What are we talking about when we talk about the postsecular? This article looks at the ways articulations of the secular often presuppose the presence – not the absence – of religion and religious plurality. This can be observed even in the work of early theorists of secularism as well as of the first sociologists who observed secularizing tendencies in society and sought to conduct social‐scientific inquiry in a way that aimed to be analytically agnostic. At the same time, the return or renewed visibility of religion does not imply a decrease in individualization of religious expression, the disappearance of secularist attitudes, or that challenges of negotiating religious pluralism have been overcome. This more complicated orientation toward relating secularity and religious pluralism shifts the focus away from debates over the truth or rationality of religious beliefs and practices to the need for mutual, voluntary, open, and ongoing communication among them. On the one hand, a commitment is necessary to the creation and maintenance of meaningful participation opportunities in the self‐presentation of religious self‐understandings in relation to issues of common concern (the mutuality requirement); on the other hand, a steadfast commitment is needed from religious persons and groups themselves to persistent participation in presentation of one's own views or those of one's constituencies in ways that are clear and accessible to all other participants (the voluntariness requirement).
Up‐regulation of miR‐192‐5p inhibits the ELAVL1/PI3Kδ axis and attenuates microvascular endothelial cell proliferation, migration and angiogenesis in diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Fu Xiao‐Lin , He Fu‐Tao , Li Mo‐Han , Fu Chun‐Yan , Chen Jian‐Zhi
Published: March 2023

Background

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a common complication of diabetes mellitus that poses a threat to adults. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a key role in DR progression. However, the role and mechanism of miR‐192‐5p in DR remain unclear. We aimed to investigate the effect of miR‐192‐5p on cell proliferation, migration and angiogenesis in DR.

Methods

Expression of miR‐192‐5p, ELAV‐like RNA binding protein 1 (ELAVL1) and phosphoinositide 3‐kinase delta (PI3Kδ) in human retinal fibrovascular membrane (FVM) samples and human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (HRMECs) was assessed using RT‐qPCR. ELAVL1 and PI3Kδ protein levels were evaluated by Western blot. RIP and dual luciferase reporter assays were performed to confirm the miR‐192‐5p/ELAVL1/PI3Kδ regulatory networks. Cell proliferation, migration and angiogenesis were assessed by CCK8, transwell and tube formation assays.

Results

MiR‐192‐5p was decreased in FVM samples from DR patients and high glucose (HG)‐treated HRMECs. Functionally, overexpressed miR‐192‐5p inhibited cell proliferation, migration and angiogenesis in HG‐treated HRMECs. Mechanically, miR‐192‐5p directly targeted ELAVL1 and decreased its expression. We further verified that ELAVL1 bound to PI3Kδ and maintained PI3Kδ mRNA stability. Rescue analysis demonstrated that the suppressive effects of HG‐treated HRMECs caused by miR‐192‐5p up‐regulation were overturned by overexpressed ELAVL1 or PI3Kδ.

Conclusion

MiR‐192‐5p attenuates DR progression by targeting ELAVL1 and reducing PI3Kδ expression, suggesting a biomarker for the treatment of DR.
Ageing is associated with a reduction in markers of mitochondrial energy metabolism in the human epidermis
Authors: Vidali Silvia , Feichtinger René G. , Emberger Michael , Brunner Susanne Maria , Gaisbauer Stefanie , Blatt Thomas , Smiles William J. , Kreutzer Christina , Weise Julia M. , Kofler Barbara
Published: March 2023

The decline of mitochondrial function throughout the lifespan is directly linked to the development of ageing phenotypes of the skin. Here, we assessed alterations in markers of epidermal mitochondrial energy metabolism as a function of skin age. Human skin samples from distinct anatomical regions were obtained during routine dermatological surgery from 21 young (27.6 ± 1.71 year) and 22 old (76.2 ± 1.73 year) donors. Sections of skin samples were analysed by immunohistochemistry for mitochondrial subunits of each electron transport chain complex (I‐V)/oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), as well as proteins serving as a marker of mitochondrial mass (VDAC1) and the regulation of DNA transcription (TFAM). Staining intensities of ATP5F1A (comprising complex V) and TFAM in the epidermis of older subjects were significantly decreased compared with younger donors. Moreover, these effects were independent of UV exposure of the stained skin section. Overall, we demonstrate that ageing is associated with reduced protein levels of complex V of the mitochondrial respiratory chain and TFAM. These alterations may impair essential mitochondrial functions, exacerbating the cutaneous ageing process.
Reframing illegal fishing in small‐scale fisheries as a wicked problem
Authors: Nahuelhual Laura , Vallejos Tomás , Campos Gonzalo , Vergara Ximena , Gelcich Stefan , Estévez Rodrigo
Published: March 2023

Wicked problems are typically social justice and social change problems, complex and messy. They mobilize opposed views about the essential nature of the issues, their relative importance and adequate responses. We assert that illegal fishing in small‐scale fisheries (SSF) can be considered a wicked problem and our aim is to test this assertion. We relied on a conceptual framework that defines wicked problems as (1) indefinable and non‐generalizable, (2) ambiguously bounded, (3) temporally exacting, (4) repercussive, (5) doubly hermeneutic and (6) morally consequential. We applied a qualitative research approach based on field data comprising three illustrative Chilean SSF, whereas secondary data complemented the analysis. The results demonstrate that illegal fishing fits most of the requirements of a wicked policy problem. It is indefinable and non‐generalizable, with different representations and uncertainty about its nature, magnitude and effects. Depictions of the nature of the problem varied from a lack of regulations' legitimacy, to a ‘combat’ to be won. It is ambiguously bounded, caused by interrelated sub‐problems (e.g. poverty, access), involving multiple policy sectors, administrative scales and actors. It is also temporally exacting and repercussive as it lacks criteria to prove that a solution has been reached and the implications of alternative solutions (e.g. self‐regulation) are unknown. As long as illegal fishing is reframed as a wicked problem, the stakeholders involved can also recognize that there are no perfect solutions and therefore promote a mix of substandard governance approaches.
Ca2+‐Calmodulin regulates nuclear translocation of the rice seed‐specificMADS‐box transcription factorOsMADS29
Authors: Verma Vibha , Boora Neelima , Nayar Saraswati , Kumar Gulshan , Thapliyal Somesh , Ankur  , Khurana Ridhi , Gawande Gautam , Kapoor Meenu , Kapoor Sanjay
Published: March 2023

OsMADS29 (M29) is a crucial regulator of seed development in rice. The expression of M29 is strictly regulated at transcriptional as well as post‐transcriptional levels. The MADS‐box proteins are known to bind to DNA as dimers. However, in the case of M29, the dimerization also plays a vital role in its localization into the nucleus. The factor(s) that affect oligomerization and nuclear transport of MADS proteins have not yet been characterized. By using BiFC in transgenic BY‐2 cell lines and Yeast‐2‐hybrid assay (Y2H), we show that calmodulin (CaM) interacts with M29 in a Ca2+‐dependent manner. This interaction specifically takes place in the cytoplasm, probably in association with the endoplasmic reticulum. By generating domain‐specific deletions, we show that both sites in M29 are involved in this interaction. Further, by using BiFC‐FRET‐FLIM, we demonstrate that CaM may also help in the dimerization of two M29 monomers. Since most MADS proteins have CaM binding domains, the interaction between these proteins could be a general regulatory mechanism for oligomerization and nuclear transport.
Arctic char occurrence and abundance using environmental DNA
Authors: Seymour Mathew , Smith Antony
Published: March 2023

Our ability to rapidly monitor species is essential for effective resource management and for establishing conservation practices. Current monitoring practices for many fish species are not effective across multiple habitats due to limited resources, permit restrictions, etc. In response, environmental DNA (eDNA)‐based surveying and monitoring programmes are increasingly being developed and applied to meet the growing demands of local regulators and resource managers. The management of Arctic char (Salvelinus alpinus), a fish species of economical and societal importance, is a prime candidate for eDNA surveillance as many existing and endemic populations are increasingly threatened by human activity and climate change.

Here we applied and tested the effectiveness of using eDNA to survey endemic and transplanted Arctic char populations across north Wales, which represents the southern extent of the Arctic char geographic range. We used a species‐specific quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) method to assess Arctic char occurrence and estimated the biomass (e.g., abundance) of Arctic char populations for each of the sampled lakes.

We found Arctic char present in four of the five lakes with eDNA detection increasing with increasing lake depth. Spatial distribution of Arctic char eDNA detection was not found to be related to spatial location or distance from inlet or outlet for each sampled lake. Arctic char biomass was estimated from eDNA using a range of previously documented eDNA concentrations to biomass measures. Following biomass validation from one lake, we suggested that a mid‐range measure of eDNA to biomass estimate (from the currently available literature) is most likely, resulting in a range of 3,002–42,614 g/ha for our biomass estimates across all sites.

Environmental DNA sampling is an effective method for assessing Arctic char populations and offers an informative base for estimating population densities. DNA detection was not spatially structured, which might indicate that the transport dynamics of eDNA are more unpredictable than previously anticipated and that standard sampling strategies should employ spatial sampling in their design to ensure adequate detection is obtained from eDNA collection efforts.

With the increasing infeasibility of traditional sampling and surveying methods it is essential to continue to test and refine our eDNA capabilities. These findings highlight the usability and sampling design strategy needed for eDNA based surveying of known and unknown locations for endemic species. We also provide an initial cross‐study framework for estimating fish abundances from eDNA data that uses and builds on existing knowledge and trends in contrast to study or site‐specific assessments.
Inverted minor literature: August Heinrich Hoffmann von Fallersleben's poem “Rotwälsch” and the naturalization of the German language
Authors: Wolf Benedikt
Published: March 2023

In 1829, August Heinrich Hoffmann von Fallersleben, who was later to write “Das Lied der Deutschen,” published one of the first scholarly articles on what was known as the Gaunersprache (rogues’ language), Rotwelsch. His article included a poem in Rotwelsch he had written himself. Against the backdrop of Hoffmann's nationalist persuasion and participation in the nationalist project of Germanistik, this paper discusses the question of why he turned to writing in a language he portrays in the same article as hybrid and criminal. Informed by Gilles Deleuze and Félix Guattari's concept of minor literature, this analysis of the poem itself and of its publication context concludes that Hoffmann participates in an older tradition of inverted minor literature in Rotwelsch, that is, a literature that a majority constructs within a minor language. Thus, Hoffmann's poem appears as an attempt at naturalizing Germanness by ascribing the artificial and deterritorializing aspects of any language to the Other.
Addressing negative product attribute reviews: The case of advertising product attributes and corporate social responsibility information
Authors: Wang Xingyu , Chang Yaping , Li Xinlan , Yan Jun
Published: March 2023

Negative product reviews are bad for businesses. They can adversely affect product sales, brand evaluations, and brand loyalty. To attend to negative reviews, one approach is through advertising products or company virtues. The current study examines the efficacy of different advertising approaches (core product attribute advertising vs. non‐core product attribute advertising vs. corporate social responsibility [CSR] advertising) in helping dilute the negative effect of dissimilar negative product attribute reviews (negative core product attribute reviews vs. negative non‐core product attribute reviews). Through four experiments, we found that when the non‐core attribute of a product had negative reviews, a core attribute advertising approach weakened the effect of negative reviews. However, CSR advertising was less effective. Furthermore, when the core attributes of a product had negative reviews, a non‐core attribute advertising effort did not weaken, but actually augmented the impact of negative reviews. In addition, when the core attributes of a product received negative reviews, CSR advertising decreased the influence of negative reviews. Our findings provide theoretical and managerial implications for managing negative online reviews of product attributes.
Irregular migrants' experiences of health disparities while living in informal settlements during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Jiménez‐Lasserrotte María del Mar , Granero‐Molina José , Lardon Galindo Violeta , Hernández Sola Clara , Ventura‐Miranda María Isabel , Hernández‐Padilla José Manuel , El Marbouhe El Faqyr Karim
Published: March 2023

Aims

The objective of this study was to describe and understand irregular migrants' (IMs') experiences of health disparities while living in informal settlements (ISs) during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Design

Qualitative descriptive study.

Methods

Thirty‐four IMs originating from different African countries living in ISs took part in this study. Data were collected between January and March 2022 through three focus groups and 17 in‐depth interviews. Thematic analysis was used to analyse qualitative data with ATLAS.ti computer software.

Results

Three main themes emerged: (1) Extreme vulnerability: ISs and abuse; (2) Inequality in health treatment has increased during COVID‐19; and (3) The impact of COVID‐19 on the health of IMs: help from non‐governmental organizations and nurses.

Conclusion

Irregular migrants are at a higher risk of exposure to COVID‐19 due to their precarious living conditions, administrative situation and access to the health system. It is recommended that specific programmes be strengthened to improve health care for this population.

Impact

What problem did the study address? This study examines IMs' experiences of health disparities during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

What were the main findings? IMs are at higher risk of exposure to COVID‐19 due to social, health, housing and work inequalities. Community health nurses alongside non‐governmental organizations have facilitated the implementation of measures to protect this population against COVID‐19.

Where and on whom will the research have an impact? With the aim of improving care for IMs, strategies have been suggested for health institutions to address problems relating to accessing the health system, and to promote networking between non‐governmental organizations and community health nurses.
Comparative genomic analysis provides insights into taxonomy and temperature adaption of Aeromonas salmonicida
Authors: Long Meng , Fan Huimin , Gan Zhen , Jiang Zenghai , Tang Shaoshuai , Xia Hongli , Lu Yishan
Published: March 2023

Aeromonas salmonicida has long been known as psychrophiles since it is mainly isolated from cold water fish, and recent reports have revealed the existence of mesophilic strains isolated from warm sources. However, the genetic differences between mesophilic and psychrophilic strains remain unclear due to few complete genomes of mesophilic strain are available. In this study, six A. salmonicida (2 mesophilic and 4 psychrophilic) were genome‐sequenced, and comparative analyses of 25 A. salmonicida complete genomes were conducted. The ANI values and phylogenetic analysis revealed that 25 strains formed three independent clades, which were referred as typical psychrophilic, atypical psychrophilic and mesophilic groups. Comparative genomic analysis showed that two chromosomal gene clusters, related to lateral flagella and outer membrane proteins (A‐layer and T2SS proteins), and insertion sequences (ISAs4, ISAs7 and ISAs29) were unique to the psychrophilic groups, while the complete MSH type IV pili were unique to the mesophilic group, all of which may be considered as lifestyle‐related factors. The results of this study not only provide new insights into the classification, lifestyle adaption and pathogenic mechanism of different strains of A. salmonicida, but also contributes to the prevention and control of disease caused by psychrophilic and mesophilic A. salmonicida.