bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expanding access to pancreas transplantation for type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Papageorge Christina M. , Bolognese Alexandra C. , Odorico Jon S.
Published: June 2021

Purpose of review

The vast majority of cases of diabetes mellitus (DM) in the United States are classified as type 2 DM (T2DM). Restrictive listing criteria and uncertainty regarding outcomes have historically limited access to pancreas transplantation for individuals with T2DM, although it has been used with success in patients with type 1 DM (T1DM). This review summarizes several recent studies that have sought to clarify the indications, appropriate patient selection, and outcomes of pancreas transplantation in the setting of T2DM.

Recent findings

Pancreas transplants have increased over the last few years, largely due to an increase in listings for simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplant (SPK) in patients with T2DM. Retrospective data demonstrate similar patient and allograft survival in patients with T1DM and T2DM undergoing SPK, and improved outcomes in patients with T2DM after SPK compared to those receiving a kidney transplant alone, although these studies are often confounded by selection biases. Patient selection for pancreas transplant has traditionally focused on body mass index, pretransplant insulin requirements, and fasting C-peptide, and the categorization of patients to T1DM or T2DM. Emerging data suggests this practice is inadvertently and unnecessarily restrictive.

There is a growing body of evidence to support increasing consideration of pancreas transplantation in patients with T2DM, with support for equivalent patient and graft survival and glycemic control. Future prospective studies are indicated to better evaluate the role of preoperative patient factors in selection for pancreas transplantation and to explore long-term outcomes in patients with T2DM.
Pediatric Hepatocellular Adenomas
Authors: Pacheco Maria Cristina , Torbenson Michael S. , Wu Tsung-Teh , Kakar Sanjay , Jain Dhanpat , Yeh Matthew M.
Published: June 2021

Hepatocellular adenomas are rare in children. A large study focused on pediatric patients has not been undertaken. A natural language search was performed at 5 institutions for hepatocellular adenomas in patients younger than 21 years old. Clinical characteristics as well as immunohistochemical staining profile was reviewed and adenomas subtyped per standard classification. Patients were divided into prepubescent and postpubescent age group. Thirty-one patients were included. Eleven (35%) were male and 10 (32%) were prepubescent. Fifteen (54%) of 28 patients with known clinical histories had adenomas associated with a syndrome. The percentage of the different adenoma subtypes was: 16% β-catenin activated, 10% combined inflammatory and β-catenin activated, 29% HFN1α-inactivated, 35% inflammatory, and 10% unclassified subtype by immunohistochemical staining. Interestingly 53% of patients with syndromes were male, while 85% of patients in the nonsyndromic group were female. The total number of β-catenin activated tumors was greater in the syndromic group (5/15, 33%) and prepubescent group (5/10, 50%) than in the nonsyndromic group (2/13, 16%) and postpubescent group (3/21, 14%), P=0.4 and 0.07, respectively. Inflammatory type adenoma was more frequent in the postpubescent (10/21, 48%) than in the prepubescent group (1/10, 10%), P=0.06, trending toward significance. Pediatric patients with hepatocellular adenomas frequently have syndromes, especially in the prepubescent group. In patients with syndromes a greater percentage of adenomas were β-catenin activated. In patients without a known syndrome the distribution of hepatocellular adenoma subtypes appears similar to adults.
Analgesic effect of central relaxin receptor activation on persistent inflammatory pain in mice: behavioral and neurochemical data
Authors: Abboud Cynthia , Brochoire Louison , Drouet Adèle , Hossain M. Akhter , Hleihel Walid , Gundlach Andrew L. , Landry Marc
Published: June 2021

Introduction:

The relaxin peptide signaling system is involved in diverse physiological processes, but its possible roles in the brain, including nociception, are largely unexplored.

Objective:

In light of abundant expression of relaxin receptor (RXFP1) mRNA/protein in brain regions involved in pain processing, we investigated the effects of central RXFP1 activation on nociceptive behavior in a mouse model of inflammatory pain and examined the neurochemical phenotype and connectivity of relaxin and RXFP1 mRNA-positive neurons.

Methods:

Mice were injected with Complete Freund Adjuvant (CFA) into a hind paw. After 4 days, the RXFP1 agonist peptides, H2-relaxin or B7-33, ± the RXFP1 antagonist, B-R13/17K-H2, were injected into the lateral cerebral ventricle, and mechanical and thermal sensitivity were assessed at 30 to 120 minutes. Relaxin and RXFP1 mRNA in excitatory and inhibitory neurons were examined using multiplex, fluorescent in situ hybridization. Relaxin-containing neurons were detected using immunohistochemistry and their projections assessed using fluorogold retrograde tract-tracing.

Results:

Both H2-relaxin and B7-33 produced a strong, but transient, reduction in mechanical and thermal sensitivity of the CFA-injected hind paw alone, at 30 minutes postinjection. Notably, coinjection of B-R13/17K-H2 blocked mechanical, but not thermal, analgesia. In the claustrum, cingulate cortex, and subiculum, RXFP1 mRNA was expressed in excitatory neurons. Relaxin immunoreactivity was detected in neurons in forebrain and midbrain areas involved in pain processing and sending projections to the RXFP1-rich, claustrum and cingulate cortex. No changes were detected in CFA mice.

Conclusion:

Our study identified a previously unexplored peptidergic system that can control pain processing in the brain and produce analgesia.
Personality Characteristics Influence Job Satisfaction in a Sample of Registered Dietitian Nutritionists
Authors: Moore Paul Barton , Jackson Karen T. , McAnulty Lisa
Published: June 2021

Research examining the relationship between personality characteristics and job satisfaction for the profession of nutrition and dietetics, specifically the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), is minimal. This study examined these relationships among RDNs in North Carolina. Recruitment of active and currently practicing RDNs occurred between November and December 2018 from the North Carolina Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. A 3-part online survey (Demographics, Big Five Inventory, and Spector Job Satisfaction Survey) was provided to qualifying RDNs (N = 380). The study included practitioners from clinical, community, food and nutrition management, consultation and business, and education and research practice areas. Agreeableness (P < .001) and neuroticism (P < .001) were found to be significant predictors of overall job satisfaction. Future research should explore other relationships that may impact job satisfaction in the field of nutrition and dietetics.
Physicians' Perceptions of the Registered Dietitian Are Evolving
Authors: Pojednic Rachele , Gale Danielle , McFarland Melissa , Prelack Kathrina
Published: June 2021

Physicians' perceptions of registered dietitians (RDs), specifically regarding order writing privileges (OWPs), are relatively unknown. A survey containing questions about demographics, RD competency, roles, and importance of nutrition care was administered to 109 physicians from a large hospital network caring for pediatric patients. Results were determined by t tests and analysis of variance. Physicians believed RDs are most responsible for nutrition education/counseling and least for food service. Those who strongly agreed with the importance of providing nutrition care were more likely to perceive RDs as responsible for that care. Physicians who perceived RDs should initiate diet orders reported higher perceptions regarding systemic effects of granting OWPs.
A computational framework for crack propagation in spatially heterogeneous materials
Authors: Lewandowski Karol , Kaczmarczyk Łukasz , Athanasiadis Ignatios , Marshall John F. , Pearce Chris J.
Published: June 2021

This paper presents a mathematical formulation and numerical modelling framework for brittle crack propagation in heterogeneous elastic solids. Such materials are present in both natural and engineered scenarios. The formulation is developed in the framework of configurational mechanics and solved numerically using the finite-element method. We show the methodology previously established for homogeneous materials without the need for any further assumptions. The proposed model is based on the assumption of maximal dissipation of energy and uses the Griffith criterion; we show that this is sufficient to predict crack propagation in brittle heterogeneous materials, with spatially varying Young’s modulus and fracture energy. Furthermore, we show that the crack path trajectory orientates itself such that it is always subject to Mode-I. The configurational forces and fracture energy release rate are both expressed exclusively in terms of nodal quantities, avoiding the need for post-processing and enabling a fully implicit formulation for modelling the evolving crack front and creation of new crack surfaces. The proposed formulation is verified and validated by comparing numerical results with both analytical solutions and experimental results. Both the predicted crack path and load–displacement response show very good agreement with experiments where the crack path was independent of material heterogeneity for those cases. Finally, the model is successfully used to consider the real and challenging scenario of fracture of an equine bone, with spatially varying material properties obtained from CT scanning.

This article is part of a discussion meeting issue ‘A cracking approach to inventing new tough materials: fracture stranger than friction’.
Calculations on compact disc cracking
Authors: Kendall Kaan , Kendall Kevin
Published: June 2021

The Griffith equation for brittle cracking has three problems. First, it applies to an infinite sheet whereas a laboratory test sample is typically near 100 × 100 mm. Second, it describes a central crack instead of the more dangerous and easily observable edge crack. Third, the theory assumes a uniform stress field, instead of tensile force application used in the laboratory. The purpose of this paper is to avoid these difficulties by employing Gregory's solution in calculating the crack behaviour of PMMA (Poly Methyl Meth Acrylate) discs, pin loaded in tension. Our calculations showed that axial disc loading gave nominal strengths comparable with Griffith theory, but the force went to zero as the crack fully crossed the disc, fitting experimental results. Off-axis loading was more interesting because the predicted strength was lower than in axial testing, but also gave unexpected behaviour at short crack lengths, where nominal strength did not rise indefinitely but dropped as crack length went below D/10, quite different from Griffith, where strength rose continuously as cracks were shortened. Such off-axis loading leads to a size effect in which larger discs are weaker, reminiscent of the fine fibre strengthening phenomenon reported in Griffith's early paper (Griffith 1921
Phil. Trans. R. Soc. Lond. A
221
, 163–198. (
doi:10.1098/rsta.1921.0006
)).

This article is part of a discussion meeting issue ‘A cracking approach to inventing new tough materials: fracture stranger than friction'.
Common and rare variant analyses combined with single-cell multiomics reveal cell-type-specific molecular mechanisms of COVID-19 severity
Authors: Zhang Sai , Cooper-Knock Johnathan , Weimer Annika K. , Harvey Calum , Julian Thomas H. , Wang Cheng , Li Jingjing , Furini Simone , Frullanti Elisa , Fava Francesca , Renieri Alessandra , Pan Cuiping , Song Jina , Billing-Ross Paul , Gao Peng , Shen Xiaotao , Timpanaro Ilia Sarah , Kenna Kevin P. ,   VA Million Veteran Program,   GEN-COVID Network, Davis Mark M. , Tsao Philip S. , Snyder Michael P.
Published: June 2021

The determinants of severe COVID-19 in non-elderly adults are poorly understood, which limits opportunities for early intervention and treatment. Here we present novel machine learning frameworks for identifying common and rare disease-associated genetic variation, which outperform conventional approaches. By integrating single-cell multiomics profiling of human lungs to link genetic signals to cell-type-specific functions, we have discovered and validated over 1,000 risk genes underlying severe COVID-19 across 19 cell types. Identified risk genes are overexpressed in healthy lungs but relatively downregulated in severely diseased lungs. Genetic risk for severe COVID-19, within both common and rare variants, is particularly enriched in natural killer (NK) cells, which places these immune cells upstream in the pathogenesis of severe disease. Mendelian randomization indicates that failed NKG2D-mediated activation of NK cells leads to critical illness. Network analysis further links multiple pathways associated with NK cell activation, including type-I-interferon-mediated signalling, to severe COVID-19. Our rare variant model, PULSE, enables sensitive prediction of severe disease in non-elderly patients based on whole-exome sequencing; individualized predictions are accurate independent of age and sex, and are consistent across multiple populations and cohorts. Risk stratification based on exome sequencing has the potential to facilitate post-exposure prophylaxis in at-risk individuals, potentially based around augmentation of NK cell function. Overall, our study characterizes a comprehensive genetic landscape of COVID-19 severity and provides novel insights into the molecular mechanisms of severe disease, leading to new therapeutic targets and sensitive detection of at-risk individuals.
Paternal body mass index before conception associated with offspring’s birth weight in Chinese population: a prospective study
Authors: Xu Renying , Zhao Weixiu , Tan Tao , Li Haojie , Wan Yanping
Published: June 2021

Whether paternal epigenetic information of nutrition might be inherited by their offspring remained unknown. evaluate the relationship between preconception paternal body weight and their offspring’s birth weight in 1,810 Chinese mother-father-baby trios. Information on paternal and maternal preconception body weight and height was collected via a self-reported questionnaire. Birth weight was collected from medical records. Paternal preconception body weight was associated with offspring’s birth weight (p trend=0.02) after multivariable adjustment. Each standard deviation increment of paternal body mass index was associated with an additional 29.6 g increase of birth weight (95% confident interval: 5.7g, 53.5g). The association was more pronounced in male neonates, and neonates with overweight mothers, and with mothers who gained excessive gestational weight, compared to their counterparts (all p interaction<0.05). Sensitivity analyses showed similar pattern to that of the main analysis. Paternal preconception body weight was associated with birth weight of their offspring.

Impact statement

What is already known on this subject?

More efforts have previously been put on the maternal contribution to birth weight, however, it is uncertain whether paternal pre-conceptional body weight, an indicator for epigenetic information, might be inherited by their offspring.

What do the results of this study add?

In the current study that included 1,810 Chinese mother-father-baby trios, a small but significant association was observed between paternal preconception body weight and offspring’s birth weight (p trend=0.02).

What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research?

Paternal epigenetic information of nutrition could be inherited by their offspring.
Micro-RNAs miR-375-3p and miR-7-5p are released alongside ACTH from corticotroph pituitary neuroendocrine tumor
Authors: Niedra Helvijs , Peculis Raitis , Konrade Ilze , Balcere Inga , Romanovs Mihails , Steina Liva , Stukens Janis , Sokolovska Jelizaveta , Klovins Janis , Rovite Vita
Published: June 2021

Objective

Circulating miRNAs are found in bodily fluids including plasma and can serve as biomarkers for diseases. The aim of this study was to provide the first insight into the landscape of circulating miRNAs in close proximity to the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) secreting PitNET. To achieve this objective next-generation sequencing of miRNAs in plasma from bilateral inferior petrosal sinus sampling (BIPSS) - a gold standard in diagnosing ACTH-secreting PitNETs, was carried out.

Methods

Sinistral (left) and dextral (right) BIPSS blood samples of the patient were collected in three time points: before the administration of corticotropin-releasing hormone, 5 and 15 minutes after stimulation. Peripheral venous blood samples were also collected 24 hours before and after BIPSS and before the resection of PitNET and 24 hours after. In differential expression analysis sinistral plasma was compared with dextral.

Results

BIPSS concluded that the highest amount of ACTH was released in the sinistral side at the 5th minute mark indicating a presence of tumor. The highest amount of differentially expressed miRNAs was observed 5 minutes after stimulation (20 upregulated, 14 downregulated). At the 5th minute mark in sinistral plasma, two miRNAs were identified: hsa-miR-7-5p and hsa-miR-375-3p that were highly upregulated compared to other BIPSS samples and peripheral plasma samples. Clustering analysis showed that BIPSS plasma differs from peripheral plasma in miRNA expression patterns.

Conclusions

data indicates that ACTH-secreting PitNET actively releases two circulating miRNAs upon stimulation with CRH (hsa-mir-7-5p, hsa-mir-375-3p) alongside with ACTH implying further studies of these miRNA as diagnostic markers are needed.
Role of physiotherapy team in critically ill COVID-19 patients pronation: can a multidisciplinary management reduce the complications rate?
Authors: Glotta Andrea , Faldarini Nicola , Biggiogero Maira , Saporito Andrea , Olivieri Diana , Molteni Claudia , Petazzi Stefano , Mauri Romano , Capdevila Xavier , Ceruti Samuele
Published: June 2021

Objectives

During the pandemic, critically ill COVID-19 patients’ management presented an increased workload for Intensive Care Unit (ICU) nursing staff, particularly during pronation maneuvers, with high risk of complications. In this scenario, a support during pronation by theICU Physiotherapy Teamwas introduced.

Research methodology

Retrospective analysis. Consecutive critically ill COVID-19 patients.

Setting

A COVID-19 Center in southern Switzerland, between March 16thand April 30th, 2020.

Main Outcome Measures

Rates and characteristics of pronation-related complications.

Results

Forty-two patients on mechanical ventilation (MV) were treated; 296 standard prone/supine positioning were performed, with 3.52 cycles/patient. One (0.3%) major complication was observed, while fourteen (33.3%) patients developed minor complications, e.g. pressure injuries. The incidence of pressure sores was related to ICU length-of-stay (LOS) (p = 0.029) and MV days (p = 0.015), while their number (n = 27) further correlated with ICU LOS (p = 0.001) and MV days (p = 0.001). The propensity matching score analysis did not show any protective factor of pronation regarding pressure injuries (p = 0.448). No other significant correlation was found.

Conclusion

The specific pronation team determined a low rate of major complications in critically ill COVID19 patients. The high rate of minor complications appeared to be related to disease severity, rather than from pronation.
SARS-CoV-2 variant Delta rapidly displaced variant Alpha in the United States and led to higher viral loads
Authors: Bolze Alexandre , Cirulli Elizabeth T , Luo Shishi , White Simon , Wyman Dana , Dei Rossi Andrew , Machado Henrique , Cassens Tyler , Jacobs Sharoni , Schiabor Barrett Kelly M. , Tsan Kevin , Nguyen Jason , Ramirez Jimmy M. , Sandoval Efren , Wang Xueqing , Wong David , Becker David , Laurent Marc , Lu James , Isaksson Magnus , Washington Nicole L , Lee William
Published: June 2021

This study reports on the displacement of Alpha (B.1.1.7) by Delta (B.1.617.2 and its substrains AY.1, AY.2, and AY.3) in the United States. By analyzing RT-qPCR testing results and viral sequencing results of samples collected across the United States, we show that the percentage of SARS-CoV-2 positive cases caused by Alpha dropped from 67% in May 2021 to less than 3.0% in just 10 weeks. We also show that the Delta variant has outcompeted the Iota (B.1.526) variant of interest and Gamma (P.1) variant of concern. An analysis of the mean quantification cycles (Cq) values in positive tests over time also reveal that Delta infections lead to a higher viral load on average compared to Alpha infections, but this increase is only 2 to 3x on average for our study design. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that the Delta variant is more transmissible than the Alpha variant, and that this could be due to the Delta variant's ability to establish a higher viral load earlier in the infection compared to the Alpha variant.
Diverse tumorigenic consequences of human papillomavirus integration in primary oropharyngeal cancers
Authors: Symer David E. , Akagi Keiko , Geiger Heather M. , Song Yang , Li Gaiyun , Emde Anne-Katrin , Xiao Weihong , Jiang Bo , Li Jingfeng , Agrawal Amit D. , Ozer Enver , Naggar Adel El , Du Zoe , Shewale Jitesh , Stache-Crain Birgit , Zucker Mark , Robine Nicolas , Coombes Kevin R. , Gillison Maura L.
Published: June 2021

Human papillomavirus (HPV) causes 5% of all cancers and frequently integrates into host chromosomes, but the impacts of integration in tumorigenesis remain unclear. Analysis of 105 HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancers by whole genome sequencing detects viral integration in 77%, revealing five statistically significant integration hotspots near genes that regulate epithelial stem cell maintenance (i.e. SOX2, TP63, FGFR, MYC) and immune evasion (i.e. CD274). Somatic hyperamplification is enriched 16-fold near HPV integrants, and the extent of focal host genomic instability increases with local density of HPV integrants. Genes expressed at extreme outlier levels are increased 86-fold within +/- 150 kb of integrants. Across 95% of tumors with integration, host gene transcription is disrupted via intragenic integrants, chimeric transcription, outlier expression, gene breaking and/or de novo expression of noncoding or imprinted genes. We conclude that HPV integration contributes substantively to cancer development by causing extensive disruption of host genome structure and gene expression.
A hemifused complex is the hub in a network of pathways to membrane fusion
Authors: Warner Jason M. , An Dong , Stratton Benjamin S. , O’Shaughnessy Ben
Published: June 2021

Membrane fusion is a critical step for many essential processes, from neurotransmission to fertilization. For over 40 years protein-free fusion driven by calcium or other cationic species has provided a simplified model of biological fusion, but the mechanisms remain poorly understood. Cation-mediated membrane fusion and permeation are essential in their own right to drug delivery strategies based on cell-penetrating peptides or cation-bearing lipid nanoparticles. Experimental studies suggest calcium drives anionic membranes to a hemifused intermediate which constitutes a hub in a network of pathways, but the pathway selection mechanism is unknown. Here we develop a mathematical model that identifies the network hub as a highly dynamical hemifusion complex. Multivalent cations drive expansion of this high tension hemifusion interface between interacting vesicles during a brief transient. The fate of this interface determines the outcome, either fusion, dead-end hemifusion or vesicle lysis. The model reproduces the unexplained finding that calcium-driven fusion of vesicles with planar membranes typically stalls at hemifusion, and we show the equilibrated hemifused state is a novel lens-shaped complex. Thus, membrane fusion kinetics follow a stochastic trajectory within a network of pathways, with outcome weightings set by a hemifused complex intermediate.

Significance

Cells use multicomponent machineries to fuse membranes for neurotransmitter and hormone release and other fundamental processes. Protein-free fusion using calcium or other multivalent cationic fusogens has long been studied as a simplifying model. Cation-mediated membrane fusion or permeation are key events for a number of current drug delivery strategies. However, the mechanisms determining outcomes are unknown. Here we develop a mathematical model that identifies a dynamic hemifusion complex as the decision hub that stochastically sets the outcome in a network of pathways. Cations transiently grow a high tension hemifusion interface between membrane-enclosed compartments, whose fate governs whether fusion, dead-end hemifusion or vesicle lysis occurs. The model provides a systematic framework to predict outcomes of cationic fusogen-mediated interactions between membrane-enclosed compartments.
A genotype independent DMP-HI system in dicot crops
Authors: Zhong Yu , Chen Baojian , Wang Dong , Zhu Xijian , Wang Yuwen , Li Mengran , Li Yifan , Liu Jinchu , Zhang Jinzhe , Chen Ming , Wang Min , Riksen Tjitske , Qi Xiaolong , Cheng Dehe , Liu Zongkai , Li Jinlong , Chen Chen , Jiao Yanyan , Liu Wenxin , Yi Bin , Huang Sanwen , Liu Chenxu , Boutilier Kim , Chen Shaojiang
Published: June 2021

Doubled haploid (DH) technology is used to obtain homozygous lines in a single generation, which significantly accelerates the crop breeding trajectory. Traditionally, in vitro culture is used to generate DHs, but is limited by species and genotype recalcitrance. In vivo haploid induction (HI) through seed is been widely and efficiently used in maize and was recently extended to several monocot crops. However, a similar generic and efficient HI system is still lacking in dicot crops. Here we show that genotype-independent in vivo HI can be triggered by mutation of DMP genes in tomato, rapeseed and tobacco with HI rates of ~1.9%, 2.4% and 1.2%, respectively. The DMP-HI system offers a robust DH technology to facilitate variety improvement in these crops. The success of this approach and the conservation of DMP genes paves the way for a generic and efficient genotype-independent HI system in other dicot crops.
Deposition chamber technology as building blocks for a standardized brain-on-chip framework
Authors: Maisonneuve B. G. C. , Libralesso L. , Miny L. , Batut A. , Rontard J. , Gleyzes M. , Boudra B. , Viera J. , Debis D. , Larramendy F. , Jost V. , Honegger T.
Published: June 2021

In vitro modeling of human brain connectomes is key to explore the structure-function relationship of the central nervous system. The comprehension of this intricate relationship will serve to better study the pathological mechanisms of neurodegeneration, and hence to perform improved drug screenings for complex neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. However, currently used in vitro modeling technologies lack potential to mimic physiologically relevant neural structures, because they are unable to represent the concurrent interconnectivity between myriad subtypes of neurons across multiple brain regions. Here, we present an innovative microfluidic design that allows the controlled and uniform deposition of various specialized neuronal populations within unique plating chambers of variable size and shape. By applying our design, we offer novel neuro-engineered microfluidic platforms, so called neurofluidic devices, which can be strategically used as organ-on-a-chip platforms for neuroscience research. Through the fine tuning of the hydrodynamic resistance and the cell deposition rate, the number of neurons seeded in each plating chamber can be tailored from a thousand up to a million, creating multi-nodal circuits that represent connectomes existing within the intact brain. These advances provide essential enhancements to in vitro platforms in the quest accurately model the brain for the investigation of human neurodegenerative diseases.
Trust building in mobile money and its outcomes
Authors: Osakwe Christian Nedu , Okeke Titus Chukwuemezie , Kwarteng Michael Adu
Published: June 2021

Purpose

To examine the key factors that can engender initial trust in mobile money and to also determine whether initial trust can contribute to the perceived value of mobile money, use and recommendation intentions. More specifically, this paper, based on initial trust building model, aims to identify the institutional, cognitive and socially related factors enhancing initial trust in mobile money and its relationship with perceived value, use and recommendation intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from 781 research participants. Variance-based structural equation modelling was used to examine the proposed research model.

Findings

This research shows the importance of the institutional factor of structural assurance, in conjunction with perceived firm reputation and communicability, in engendering initial trust in mobile money and, in turn, enhancing perceived value, use and recommendation intentions. The research further confirms the mediating influence of perceived value in the relationships between initial trust, use and recommendation intentions.

Originality/value

The originality of this work lies in the development and empirical confirmation of the research model and which together contributes to an increase understanding of initial trust building in mobile money acceptance. Value-wise, this work has the potential to inform managerial and public policy interventions by helping mobile money operators and policymakers’ rollout essential and even sophisticated financial services like borrowing using the mobile phone for the financially under-served in developing and trust-deficit settings.
Prominence of organic image in tourist destinations: Indian leisure tourism narrative
Authors: Dogra Jeet , Karri Venkata Rohan Sharma
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The process of understanding a tourist begins with an extensive evaluation of tourist’s perceptions about a destination. Though destination image has been widely discussed in tourism literature since the 1970s, little attention has been given to organic image despite its relative significance. First, this study aims to clear the existing ambiguity in the cognitive component of destination image by organizing and structuring the extant literature.

Design/methodology/approach

This exploratory study then seeks to identify the salient organic image attributes in tourists’ consideration for travel options through the application of repertory test. Respondents’ statements on 25 competing destinations in Madhya Pradesh, India were transcribed verbatim for analysis. A measure of frequencies and commonality among 12 construct themes was then carried out.

Findings

Along with history, heritage and culture, this study found tourists to have considered organic image attributes associated with destination stereotypes as important discriminators between competing leisure tourist destinations. Moreover, the elicitation of context-specific attributes along with a note in the pattern of tourist responses highlighted the merits of repertory test when presented with different category triads.

Originality/value

This study differs from other organic image studies as it evaluates the prominence of organic image in the context of leisure tourism. Being one of the few studies to have extensively discussed the organic image component, this study contributes to the progression of organic image literature.
Comparison of the effects of help-seeking and product-claim direct-to-consumer advertising (DTCA) and the underlying mechanism
Authors: Darmawan Ida , Xu Hao , Huh Jisu
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the differential effects of help-seeking and product-claim direct-to-consumer advertising (DTCA) on consumers’ attitude toward the ad, intention to seek information and intention to see a doctor. This paper also seeks to examine the underlying mechanism of these effects and the moderating role of advertising literacy.

Design/methodology/approach

An online experiment was conducted with 130 adults who experienced narcolepsy symptoms and experimental stimuli promoting a fictitious drug for narcolepsy.

Findings

Help-seeking DTCA generated lower persuasion knowledge activation than product-claim DTCA, resulting in lower skepticism, more favorable attitude toward the ad and higher behavioral intentions. The effects of ad type were stronger among consumers with higher advertising literacy.

Originality/value

This is the first study that provides a thorough examination of the underlying mechanism of the differential effects of help-seeking vs product-claim DTCA as well as the roles of consumers’ advertising literacy on ad outcomes.
Neuromarketing genetics: a systematic review of literature
Authors: Goecking Otto Herman Pedreira , De Muylder Cristiana Fernandes , Martins Henrique Cordeiro , Felisberto João Luiz da Matta
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The main goal of this paper is to systematically evaluate the bibliographic production on neuromarketing from 1945 to 2018, with an emphasis on consumer behavior, to identify possible convergence of interests among health and marketing fields.

Design/methodology/approach

This article was based on a systematic literature review (SLR) with the intention of investigating research related to neuromarketing by means of network analysis of citations.

Findings

The research reveals that there are formed networks in the health and management areas, but they are insufficient to enhance the neuromarketing results. Ethics has been mentioned in some studies, but the maps do not suggest that it is a developing field. Similar results can be seen within the sales area that can be capitalized on by research of gains related to consumer behavior.

Research limitations/implications

One limitation of this study was the use of only one database (Web of Science®) that published several works from 1945 to the present time, but certainly has not exhausted the possibilities of research in the area.

Originality/value

This article helped to highlight the importance of ethics in clinical and business processes using neuroimaging, which could be an easy way to understand the behavioral and physiological mechanisms.
All for one? The Paycheck Protection Program distribution disparity
Authors: Kickul Jill , Griffiths Mark D. , Robb Colleen C. , Gundry Lisa
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Given the previous research on the disparities of lending rates and their relationship with lending institutions for women-owned and minority-owned businesses, the study poses the research question: How much Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funding was distributed to women-owned and minority-owned businesses in comparison to other firms? Additionally, as the purpose of the PPP funding was to assist small businesses in retaining their workforce, the authors pose a second research question: Of those who received PPP funding, how many jobs on average were retained? And importantly related to our first research question, are there differences across gender and race in the average number of jobs retained?

Design/methodology/approach

This is one of the first empirical studies with an initial sample size of 661,218 loans from July 2020 that examines whether the United States PPP had the intended impact to save jobs in small businesses and to examine any reported differences across gender and race in loans issued and jobs saved.

Findings

The authors find that significant differences exist between women- and men-owned businesses across all five loan categories, with male-owned firms receiving over 80% of PPP loans. However, women-owned firms saved more jobs on average across all but the largest loan category. Significant differences were also found between minority- and White-owned businesses with minority-owned businesses generally saving more jobs on average across most loan categories.

Research limitations/implications

A limitation of this study pertains to certain missing data that were not reported by participants. While a participant may have included their gender, they may not have included their race. Therefore, the varying sets of data may not be a reflection of the same individuals. Additionally, the industries were not included in this analysis, which may shed light on the job creation differences across gender and race.

Practical implications

Many of the industries that have been significantly impacted have been the tourism, restaurant and hospitality sectors, and knowing “where the money was allocated” can assist policymakers in allocating additional funds to those businesses, especially those who did not receive funding in the initial first waves of PPP.

Originality/value

This is one of the first empirical studies that examine over 600,000 loans and found that women-owned firms saved more jobs across all loan categories except the largest loans. Significant differences were also found between minority- and White-owned businesses with minority-owned businesses generally saving more jobs on average across most loan categories.
Impact of corruption on bank soundness: the moderating impact of Shari’ah supervision
Authors: Hussain Khan Mushtaq , Fraz Ahmad , Hassan Arshad , Zohaib Hassan Kazmi Syed
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This study aims to examine whether the soundness of Islamic banks is differently affected by corruption compared to conventional counterparts. Moreover, the Shari’ah supervisory board (SSB), as a cornerstone of Islamic banking and representing a multi-layer corporate governance model, is expected to moderate the influence of corruption on soundness for Islamic banks.

Design/methodology/approach

This study considers a unique sample of 1,528 observations on 71 Islamic banks and 120 conventional banks operating in 11 emerging and developing Muslim countries over the 2010–2017 period. This study uses generalized least squares regression model and the coefficients are estimated by using random-effects estimator. In addition, to overcome a potential endogeneity concern for corruption and bank stability relationship, this study uses Two-Stage Least Squares regression instrumental variable estimator.

Findings

The authors find consistent evidence that higher levels of corruption adversely impact the soundness for conventional banks, in favor of the sand the wheel hypothesis in the corruption–development nexus. However, as expected, this study finds a less negative impact of corruption on soundness of Islamic banks. Moreover, SSB moderates the relationship between corruption and soundness of Islamic banks. The findings are robust to a battery of alternative checks.

Research limitations/implications

Findings of the paper regarding the detrimental impact of corruption on bank soundness justify the urgency of the anti-corruption campaigns in these countries, particularly for conventional banks. Moreover, the findings provide support for the positive contribution of SSBs to overcome the adverse effect of corruption on soundness of Islamic banks and thereby underscoring the need for enforcement and regulatory mechanism for SSBs to be more effective.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to examine the moderating impact of Shari’ah supervision on the relationship between corruption and soundness of Islamic banks.
Risk, efficiency and financial performance in the GCC banking industry: Islamic versus conventional banks
Authors: Hidayat Sutan Emir , Sakti Muhammad Rizky Prima , Al-Balushi Raqiya Ali Abdullah
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to critically evaluate how conventional and Islamic banks trade off risk, efficiency and financial performance in their business models, to investigate how patterns of risk and efficiency vary between conventional and Islamic banks and to critically evaluate how the profitability of conventional and Islamic banks varies following the financial crisis.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses univariate and multivariate statistical techniques by investigating 12 Islamic banks and 34 conventional banks operating in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region has been studied over the period 2011–2018.

Findings

The results suggest that Islamic and conventional banks differ not in the levels of efficiency, risk and profitability, but rather in how risk and efficiency influence banks’ financial performance. Islamic banks are found to be less influenced by the adverse effects of credit risk, which is consistent with the risk-sharing nature of Islamic financing. However, the results only hold for return on assets (ROA) and return on equity (ROE) while the net interest margin is observed to be negatively influenced by credit risk. Lower cost-income efficiency is also found to boost ROA and ROE of Islamic banks which could be attributed to a larger share of non-interest revenues due to Sharīʿah-compliance.

Research limitations/implications

From a theoretical point of view, this study helps to understand the risk, efficiency and financial performance of Islamic banks in comparison with conventional banks.

Practical implications

The results of this study can serve bank managers, regulators and shareholders. Policymakers should encourage a more risk-sharing structure of Islamic financing as it brings less adverse effects of credit risk and increases income sustainability for Islamic banks. The present study may help bank managers to improve the financial performance of their firms by controlling risk and efficiency. The study results also have implications for shareholders and depositors of Islamic and conventional banks as they should have a predetermined position about the level of credit risk and efficiency in each banking system.

Originality/value

The foremost contribution is that this is one of the few studies to compare risk, efficiency and financial performance of Islamic and conventional banks in the GCC region. By using the latest data, this paper hopes that the findings will be more relevant than previous studies to the current situation of the banking industry in the region.
Co-production for or against the university: student loneliness and the commodification of impact in COVID-19
Authors: Cooper Fred , Jones Charlotte
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This paper explores the dissonance between co-production and expectations of impact in a research project on student loneliness over the 2019/2020 academic year. Specific characteristics of the project – the subject matter, interpolation of a global respiratory pandemic, informal systems of care that arose among students and role of the university in providing the context and funding for the research – brought co-production into heightened tension with the instrumentalisation of project outputs.

Design/methodology/approach

The project consisted of a series of workshops, research meetings and mixed-methods online journalling between 2019 and 2020. This paper is primarily a critical reflection on that research, based on observations by and conversations between the authors, together with discourse analysis of research data.

Findings

The authors argue that co-producing research with students on university contexts elevates existing tensions between co-production and institutional valuations of impact, that co-production with students who had experienced loneliness made necessary space for otherwise absent support and care, that the responsibility to advocate for evidence and co-researchers came into friction with how the university felt the research could be useful and that each of these converging considerations are interconnected symptoms of the ongoing marketisation of HE.

Originality/value

This paper provides a novel analysis of co-production, impact and higher education in the context of an original research project with specific challenges and constraints. It is a valuable contribution to methodological literatures on co-production, multidisciplinary research into student loneliness and reflexive work on the difficult uses of evidence in university contexts.
The recognition and management of delirium superimposed on dementia
Authors: Robertson Margaret
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This essay was written as a university assignment for an expert dementia practice module as part of the Masters in Applied Professional Practice. This paper aims to provide a critical discussion of the recognition and management of delirium superimposed on dementia.

Design/methodology/approach

The findings of this paper showed that the recognition of delirium superimposed of dementia is not well recognized, but early intervention and management can result in preferential outcomes. This requires the use of appropriate recognition tools and for all health-care staff to have specific training within this area.

Findings

Education is imperative to improving delirium recognition.

Research limitations/implications

Education is imperative to improving awareness.

Practical implications

The research implications of this paper demonstrate that appropriate training and education of health-care staff is imperative for the timely recognition of delirium and the improvement of care.

Originality/value

This paper was undertaken as an assignment for the University of Highlands and Islands.
Protein extraction from catfish byproducts and physicochemical properties of the protein isolates
Authors: Zhang Yan , Chang Sam K. C.
Published: June 2021

In order to optimize protein recovery from catfish byproducts by alkaline extraction, the effects of different factors, including particle size, mince‐to‐water ratio, pH, and extraction time were investigated. It was found that a protein recovery of about 30% could be achieved. Increases in pH (pH 10.5, 11, and 11.5) not only improved protein recovery, but also increased protein denaturation evidenced by decreased solubility, decreased α‐helix, increased β‐sheet, and increased random coil. The color and texture of gels made from protein isolate were greatly affected by the pH values used for protein extraction. For the gels made from fillet mince, and protein isolates extracted at pH 10.5, 11, and 11.5, the “L” values were 78.96, 60.38, 57.74, and 54.39, the breaking forces were 205, 492, 585, and 458 g, and deformation values were 10.59, 8.07, 6.73, and 5.04 mm, respectively. Electrophoresis revealed protein degradation during alkali‐aided extraction with MHC, the most predominant band, showing about 50% decrease in comparison with fillet mince. It also demonstrated that gelation not only caused cross‐linking, but also autolysis with 53%, 56%, 59%, and 81% decrease in MHC intensity for fillet mince, protein isolates extracted at pH 10.5, 11, and 11.5, respectively. Fillet mince and protein isolates exhibited different storage modulus patterns during temperature sweep, implying different gelation mechanisms. This study proved the protein extracted from catfish byproducts was potential to be utilized as edible food components especially in gel making.

Practical Application

Catfish byproducts, which account for 70% of total weight and 50% of total protein of catfish, are normally used as animal feed, fertilizer, or even waste. This study demonstrated the potential of the utilization of catfish wastes to develop edible food components. This could reduce the total processing waste being discarded into the environment and nutrient loss, therefore increasing profitability of catfish industry.