bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New structural features of the APC/C from high-resolution cryo-EM structures of apo-APC/C and APC/CCDH1:EMI1complexes
Authors: Höfler Anna , Yu Jun , Yang Jing , Zhang Ziguo , Chang Leifu , McLaughlin Stephen H. , Grime Geoffrey W. , Garman Elspeth F. , Boland Andreas , Barford David
Published: September 2023

The multi-subunit anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome (APC/C) is a master regulator of cell division. It controls progression through the cell cycle by timely marking mitotic cyclins and other cell cycle regulatory proteins for degradation. The APC/C itself is regulated by the sequential action of its coactivator subunits CDC20 and CDH1, post-translational modifications, and its inhibitory binding partners EMI1 and the mitotic checkpoint complex (MCC). In this study, we took advantage of the latest developments in cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) to determine the structures of human APC/CCDH1:EMI1and apo-APC/C at 2.9 Å and 3.2 Å resolution, respectively, providing novel insights into the regulation of APC/C activity. The high-resolution maps allowed the unambiguous assignment of a previously unassigned α-helix to the N-terminus of CDH1 (CDH1α1) in the APC/CCDH1:EMI1ternary complex. We also identified a novel zinc-binding module in APC2 that confers structural stability to APC2, and we confirmed the presence of zinc ions experimentally. Finally, due to the higher resolution and well defined density of these maps, we were able to build, aided by AlphaFold predictions, several intrinsically disordered regions in different APC/C subunits that likely play a role in proper APC/C assembly and regulation of its activity.
Holistic integration of omics data reveals the drivers that shape the ecology of microbial meat spoilage scenarios
Authors: Poirier Simon , Coeuret Gwendoline , Champomier-Vergès Marie-Christine , Desmonts Marie-Hélène , Werner Dalal , Feurer Carole , Frémaux Bastien , Guillou Sandrine , Martin Luong Ngoc-Du , Rué Olivier , Loux Valentin , Zagorec Monique , Chaillou Stéphane
Published: September 2023

The use of omics data for monitoring the microbial flow of fresh meat products along a production line and the development of spoilage prediction tools from these data is a promising but challenging task. In this context, we produced a large multivariate dataset (over 600 samples) obtained on the production lines of two similar types of fresh meat products (poultry and raw pork sausages).We describe a full analysis of this dataset in order to decipher how the spoilage microbial ecology of these two similar products may be shaped differently depending on production parameter characteristics.

Our strategy involved a holistic approach to integrate unsupervised and supervised statistical methods on multivariate data (OTU-based microbial diversity; metabolomic data of volatile organic compounds; sensory measurements; growth parameters), and a specific selection of potential uncontrolled (initial microbiota composition) or controlled (packaging type; lactate concentration) drivers.

Our results demonstrate that the initial microbiota, which is shown to be very different between poultry and pork sausages, has a major impact on the spoilage scenarios and on the effect that a downstream parameter such as packaging type has on the overall evolution of the microbial community. Depending on the process, we also show that specific actions on the pork meat (such as deboning and defatting) elicit specific food spoilers such asDellaglioa algida,which becomes dominant during storage. Finally, ecological network reconstruction allowed us to map six different metabolic pathways involved in the production of volatile organic compounds involved in spoilage. We were able connect them to the different bacterial actors and to the influence of packaging type in an overall view. For instance, our results demonstrate a new role ofVibrionaceaein isopropanol production, and ofLatilactobacillus fuchuensisandLactococcus pisciumin methanethiol/disylphide production. We also highlight a possible commensal behavior betweenLeuconostoc carnosumandLatilactobacillus curvatusaround 2,3-butanediol metabolism.

We conclude that our holistic approach combined with large-scale multi-omic data was a powerful strategy to prioritize the role of production parameters, already known in the literature, that shape the evolution and/or the implementation of different meat spoilage scenarios.
An architectural role ofoskarmRNA in granule assembly
Authors: Bose Mainak , Rankovic Branislava , Mahamid Julia , Ephrussi Anne
Published: September 2023

Ribonucleoprotein (RNP) granules are membraneless condensates that organize the intracellular space by compartmentalization of specific RNAs and proteins1. Studies have shown that RNA tunes the phase behavior of RNA binding proteins (RBPs)2–4, but the role of intermolecular RNA-RNA interactions in assembly of RNP granulesin vivoremains less explored5–7. Here, we determine the role of a sequence-specific RNA-RNA kissing-loop interaction in assembly of mesoscaleoskarRNP granules in the femaleDrosophilagermline. A two-nucleotide mutation that disrupts kissing-loop-mediatedoskarmRNA dimerization impairs condensate formationin vitro,oskargranule assembly in the developing oocyte - leading to defective posterior localization of the RNA, and abrogation ofoskar-associated processing bodies (P-bodies) upon nutritional stress. This specifictransRNA-RNA interaction acts synergistically with the scaffold RBP, Bruno8, in driving condensate assembly. Our study highlights the architectural contribution of an mRNA and its specific secondary structure and tertiary interactions in formation of an RNP granule essential for embryonic development.
Heterotypic interaction promotes asymmetric division of human hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells
Authors: Candelas Adrian , Vianay Benoit , Gelin Matthieu , Faivre Lionel , Larghero Jerome , Blanchoin Laurent , Théry Manuel , Brunet Stephane
Published: September 2023

Hematopoietic Stem and Progenitor Cells (HSPCs) give rise to all cell types of the hematopoietic system through various processes including asymmetric divisions. However, the contribution of stromal cells of the hematopoietic niches in the control of HSPC asymmetric divisions remains unknown. Using polyacrylamide microwells as minimalist niches, we show that heterotypic interaction with osteoblast promotes asymmetric division of human HSPC. Upon interaction, HSPCs polarize in interphase with centrosome, the Golgi apparatus and lysosomes positioned close to the site of contact. Subsequently during mitosis, HSPCs orient their spindle perpendicular to the plane of contact. This division gives rise to siblings with unequal amounts of lysosomes and differentiation markers such as CD34. Such asymmetric inheritance generates heterogeneity in the progeny, which is likely to be a key contributor to the plasticity of the early steps of hematopoiesis.
Complex-specific subunits of endosomal tethering factors determine the balance between HOPS/CORVET complexes
Authors: Sőth Ármin , Molnár Márton , Lőrincz Péter , Simon-Vecsei Zsófia , Juhász Gábor
Published: September 2023

The endolysosomal tethering complexes HOPS and CORVET play pivotal roles in the homo- and heterotypic fusion of early and late endosomes, respectively, and HOPS also mediates the fusion of lysosomes with incoming vesicles including late endosomes and autophagosomes. These heterohexameric complexes share their four core subunits that assemble with additional two, complex-specific subunits. These features and the similar structure of the complexes allow the formation of hybrid complexes, and the complex specific subunits may compete for binding to the core. In our study, we decided to gain insight into how human HOPS and CORVET complexes form. We found that the overexpression of CORVET-specific Vps8 or Tgfbrap1 decreased the amount of core proteins Vps11 and Vps18 that are assembled with HOPS-specific subunits Vps41 or Vps39, which suggests reduced amount of intracellular HOPS. In line with this, we observed that the level of lipidated LC3 protein was elevated in these cells and the autophagic cargo p62 showed accumulation in cells overexpressing Vps8, suggesting failure in autophagosome-lysosome fusion in line with loss of HOPS function. In contrast, overexpression of HOPS-specific Vps39 or Vps41 did not affect the levels of these autophagic markers. Finally, we found that a hybrid complex containing Vps39 and Vps8 could be formed in HEK293 cells.
Comparative omics reveals unanticipated metabolic rearrangements in a high-oil mutant of plastid acetyl-CoA carboxylase
Authors: Kataya Amr , Nascimento Jose Roberto S. , Xu Chunhui , Garneau Matthew G. , Koley Somnath , Kimberlin Athen , Mooney Brian P. , Allen Doug K. , Bates Philip D. , Koo Abraham J. , Xu Dong , Thelen Jay J.
Published: September 2023

Heteromeric acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACCase) catalyzes the ATP-dependent carboxylation of acetyl-CoA to produce malonyl-CoA, the committed step forde novofatty acid synthesis. In plants, ACCase activity is controlled at multiple levels, including negative regulation by biotin attachment domain-containing (BADC) proteins, of which thebadc1/3double mutant leads to increased seed triacylglycerol accumulation. Unexpectedly, the Arabidopsisbadc1/3mutant also accumulates more protein. The metabolic consequences from both higher oil and protein was investigated in developingbadc1/3seed using global transcriptomics, translatomics, proteomics, and metabolomics. Changes include: reduced plastid pyruvate dehydrogenase; increased acetyl-CoA synthetase; increased storage and lipid-droplet packaging proteins; increased lipases; and increased β-oxidation fatty acid catabolism. We present a model of how Arabidopsis adapted to deregulated ACCase, limiting total oil accumulation, and altering flux through pathways of carbon accumulation that presents possible targets for future bioengineering of valuable seed storage reserves.
Anionic phospholipids determine G protein coupling selectivity at distinct subcellular membrane compartments
Authors: Hernandez Evelyn H. , Manglik Aashish , Irannejad Roshanak
Published: September 2023

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) activate different signaling pathways through coupling to heterotrimeric G proteins consisting of four types of G alpha (Gα) subunits and the beta gamma (ýy) subunits. The C-terminal regions of Gα proteins is thought to determine coupling selectivity. However, there are several reports indicating that some receptors are promiscuous and can couple to multiple Gα proteins. The precise mechanism promoting promiscuous coupling is not fully understood. Here we show that anionic phospholipids such as phosphoinositide 4,5 bisphosphate (PI(4,5)P2) promote electrostatic interactions between anionic lipid head groups and positively charged amino acids in the transmembrane 4 (TM4) region of beta adrenergic receptors (βARs) to prime receptor coupling to the cognate Gαs and non-cognate Gαi proteins. The promiscuous coupling can only occur at the plasma membrane, a membrane compartment enriched in PI(4,5)P2, while receptors only couple to cognate Gαs proteins in compartments that are enriched in less negatively charged phosphoinositides such PI4P at the Golgi membranes. We took advantage of the rapamycin dimerization system to rapidly and inducibly deplete PI(4,5)P2 by recruiting a phosphatase to the plasma membrane and found that in the absence of anionic phospholipids, βARs couple only to their cognate Gαs protein. Finally, we found that mutating βARs PI(4,5)P2 binding motifs or depleting PI(4,5)P2 results in enhanced βARs-mediated cAMP response. Together, these findings reveal a role for anionic phosphoinositides in regulating GPCR activity at different subcellular compartments.
Definitions of digital biomarkers: a systematic mapping of the biomedical literature
Authors: Alonso Ana Karen Macias , Hirt Julian , Woelfle Tim , Janiaud Perrine , Hemkens Lars G.
Published: September 2023

Background

Technological devices such as smartphones, wearables, sensors, or virtual assistants allow to collect data on health and disease processes and are thus increasingly considered a useful digital alternative to conventional biomarkers. We aimed to provide a systematic overview of the emerging literature on “digital biomarkers” with their definitions, features, and citations in biomedical research.

Methods

We analyzed all articles in PubMed that used the term “digital biomarker(s)” in title or abstract, considering any study involving humans and any review, editorial, perspective, or other opinion-based article up to 8 March 2023. We systematically extracted characteristics of publications and research studies, and any definitions and features of “digital biomarkers” mentioned. We described the most influential literature on digital biomarkers and their definitions using thematic categorizations of definitions considering the FDA BEST framework (i.e., data type, data collection method, purpose of biomarker), analysing the structural similarity of definitions by performing text analyses (hierarchical clustering on the distance-matrix) and citation analyses (based on citation metrics obtained from OpenAlex via Local Citation Network; last search 26 June 2023).

Findings

We identified 415 articles prominently using the term “digital biomarker”. They were published between 2014 and 2023 (median 2021), mostly describing primary research (283 articles; 68%). Most articles did not provide a definition of a digital biomarker (n=287; 69%). The 128 articles providing a definition of a digital biomarker reported 127 different definitions. Of these 127 definitions, 78 considered data collection, 56 data type, 50 the purpose, and 23 were based on all three key components. The 128 articles with a definition were cited a median of 6 times (interquartile range 2-20) with up to 517 citations. Of the ten most frequently cited articles using a definition, all used a different one.

Interpretation

The most frequently used definitions for digital biomarkers are highly different and there is no consensus about what this emerging term means. Our overview highlights key defining characteristics of digital biomarkers which can inform the development of a harmonized and more widely accepted definition.

Funding

No specific funding.
Distinct genomic signatures and modifiable risk factors underly the comorbidity between major depressive disorder and cardiovascular disease
Authors: Bergstedt Jacob , Pasman Joëlle A. , Ma Ziyan , Harder Arvid , Yao Shuyang , Parker Nadine , Treur Jorien L. , Smit Dirk J.A. , Frei Oleksandr , Shadrin Alexey , Meijsen Joeri J. , Shen Qing , Hägg Sara , Tornvall Per , Buil Alfonso , Werge Thomas , Hjerling-Leffler Jens , Als Thomas D. , Børglum Anders D. , Lewis Cathryn M. , McIntosh Andrew M. , Valdimarsdóttir Unnur A. , Andreassen Ole A. , Sullivan Patrick F. , Lu Yi , Fang Fang
Published: September 2023

Major depressive disorder (MDD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) are often comorbid, resulting in excess morbidity and mortality. Using genomic data, this study elucidates biological mechanisms, key risk factors, and causal pathways underlying their comorbidity. We show that CVDs share a large proportion of their genetic risk factors with MDD. Multivariate genome-wide association analysis of the shared genetic liability between MDD and atherosclerotic CVD (ASCVD) revealed seven novel loci and distinct patterns of tissue and brain cell-type enrichments, suggesting a role for the thalamus. Part of the genetic overlap was explained by shared inflammatory, metabolic, and psychosocial/lifestyle risk factors. Finally, we found support for causal effects of genetic liability to MDD on CVD risk, but not from most CVDs to MDD, and demonstrated that the causal effects were partly explained by metabolic and psychosocial/lifestyle factors. The distinct signature of MDD-ASCVD comorbidity aligns with the idea of an immunometabolic sub-type of MDD more strongly associated with CVD than overall MDD. In summary, we identify plausible biological mechanisms underlying MDD-CVD comorbidity, as well as key modifiable risk factors for prevention of CVD in individuals with MDD.
Latent Classes of Anthropometric Growth in Early Childhood Using Uni- and Multivariate approaches in a South African Birth Cohort
Authors: van Biljon Noëlle , Lake Marilyn T , Goddard Liz , Botha Maresa , Zar Heather J , Little Francesca
Published: September 2023

Background

Conventional methods for modelling longitudinal growth data focus on the analysis of mean longitudinal trends or the identification of abnormal growth based on cross-sectional standardized z-scores. Latent Class Mixed Modelling (LCMM) considers the underlying heterogeneity in growth profiles and allows for the identification of groups of subjects that follow similar longitudinal trends.

Methods

LCMM was used to identify underlying latent profiles of growth for univariate responses of standardized height, standardized weight, standardized body mass index and standardized weight-for-length/height measurements and multivariate response of joint standardized height and standardized weight measurements from birth to five years for a sample of 1143 children from a South African birth cohort, the Drakenstein Child Health Study (DCHS). Allocations across latent growth classes were compared to better understand the differences and similarities across the classes identified given different composite measures of height and weight as input.

Results

Four classes of growth within standardized height (n1=516, n2=112, n3=187, n4=321) and standardized weight (n1=263, n2=150, n3=584, n4=142), three latent growth classes within Body Mass Index (BMI) (n1=481, n2=485, n3=149) and Weight for length/height (WFH) (n1=321, n2=710, n3=84) and five latent growth classes within the multivariate response of standardized height and standardized weight (n1=318, n2=205, n3=75, n4=296, n5=242) were identified, each with distinct trajectories over childhood. A strong association was found between various growth classes and abnormal growth features such as rapid weight gain, stunting, underweight and overweight.

Conclusions

With the identification of these classes, a better understanding of distinct childhood growth trajectories and their predictors may be gained, informing interventions to promote optimal childhood growth.

Key Messages

Four latent classes of growth were identified within standardized height and standardized weight.

Three latent classes of growth were identified within standardized body mass index and standardized weight-for-length/height.

Five latent classes of growth were identified within a multivariate response of standardized height and standardized weight.

Latent classes identified using various composite measures of standardized height and standardized weight (standardized body mass index and standardized weight-for-length/height and a multivariate response of standardized height and standardized weight) were distinct, reiterating the benefit of examining each outcome.

A strong association was found between various growth classes and abnormal growth features such as rapid weight gain, stunting, underweight and overweight.
Nepenthespitchersversusthermogenic flowers: Thermal patterns and their role in prey capture and pollination
Authors: Sujatha Gokul Baburaj , Johnson Anil John , Hussain Abdul Azeez , Baby Sabulal
Published: September 2023

Prey capture inNepenthesand pollination in angiosperms are two antithetical events; one designed to trap insects and other arthropods (carnivory) and the other to transfer pollen through pollinators (reproduction). In this study infrared thermography is extensively used to obtain thermal profiles ofNepenthespitchers and thermogenic flowers in field conditions.N. khasianapitchers displayed below ambient temperatures during evening-night-morning hours (5 pm to 8-9-10 am); pitcher spots recorded lowest and highest temperatures as 14.4 (6-7 am) and 45.6°C (2 pm), respectively. In the evening-night-morning hours top pitcher spots displayed significant decrease (upto 6.7°C) from the ambient temperature. The average humidities in the night and day periods were 77.15% and 50.15%, respectively. Thermographic tracking of the pitcher (lid) opening inN. khasianademonstrated initial ‘wet’ pitcher in night, which gradually switched to a relatively dry surface in the morning-day times; but the peristome region retained the ‘wetness’ till 10.30 a.m. The prey capturing zones inNepenthespitchers (peristome, lid and their intersection) are colder favoring prey capture, whereas in thermogenic flowers, floral portions are hotter, providing the thermal requirements for the pollinator. In thermogenic plants, floral zones assist pollination by offering a ‘thermal reward’ through enzymatic processes; butNepenthestraps achieve lower temperature spots by physical (surface microstructures), chemical (extrafloral nectar) and ecological (rain, humidity) factors.
Structure and function relationship of formate dehydrogenases: an overview of recent progress
Authors: Kobayashi Ami , Taketa Midori , Sowa Keisei , Kano Kenji , Higuchi Yoshiki , Ogata Hideaki
Published: September 2023

Formate dehydrogenases (FDHs) catalyze the two-electron oxidation of formate to carbon dioxide. FDHs can be divided into several groups depending on their subunit composition and active-site metal ions. Metal-dependent (Mo- or W-containing) FDHs from prokaryotic organisms belong to the superfamily of molybdenum enzymes and are members of the dimethylsulfoxide reductase family. In this short review, recent progress in the structural analysis of FDHs together with their potential biotechnological applications are summarized.
Is your company competent, interpersonal or community focused? The effect of values and brand portfolio on company reputation
Authors: Katsanis Lea Prevel , Williams Alan , Srirangan Kajan
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is twofold: first, to determine if pharmaceutical companies can be grouped based on their espoused values, and second, to examine the relationship between these values and company reputation.

Design/methodology/approach

A descriptive study design is used with two separate analyses: cluster analysis for grouping the companies; and descriptive data analysis for determining cluster differences.

Findings

The findings suggest that there are three value clusters: competent, community and interpersonal, with the community group showing the highest relative reputation, and the interpersonal cluster as the lowest. Brand portfolio composition appears to positively contribute to reputation. The effect of portfolio specialization is based on a company’s closeness to its therapeutic community, which may be influenced by the outward characteristics of its values.

Research limitations/implications

Future research should examine the longitudinal effects of values on reputation combined with case studies.

Practical implications

Regardless of cluster classification, all firms should develop strong ties with their therapeutic communities using both personal and digital/omnichannel strategies.

Social implications

A company’s values are becoming an important consideration for all customers and stakeholders.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to systematically examine the activities of leading pharmaceutical firms to link a specific value cluster to company reputation.
How does digital transformation affect innovation in knowledge-intensive business services firms? The moderating effect of R&D collaboration portfolio
Authors: Duan Yunlong , Yang Meng , Liu Hanxiao , Chin Tachia
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Firms are driven to ride on the digital wave in today’s open innovation ecosystem. This study aims to explore the effect of digital transformation (DT) on knowledge-intensive business services (KIBS) firms’ innovation ambidexterity, namely, radical versus incremental innovation, respectively. Meanwhile, the authors evaluated the moderating role of the complexity of R&D collaboration portfolio (i.e. organizational diversity and geographic diversity) in the above relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a panel data set of 171 Chinese listed firms in the information and communications technology services industry from 2010 to 2018, the proposed hypotheses were empirically attested.

Findings

It is found that DT has a positive relationship with radical innovation and an inverted U-shaped relationship with incremental innovation. In terms of the R&D collaboration portfolio, organizational diversity positively moderates the relationships between DT and innovation ambidexterity, respectively. The geographic diversity weakens the inverted U-shaped effect of DT on incremental innovation; however, its moderating role in the link between DT and radical innovation is not empirically verified.

Originality/value

Extant scholars mainly addressed the interplay between KIBS firms and their manufacturing clients, while this study reveals the different consequences of DT on KIBS firms’ innovation ambidexterity to highlight the role of KIBS firms is an independent and essential innovator in a knowledge-driven economy. Notably, the findings contribute to knowledge management (KM) and R&D literature by confirming the diversity of the R&D collaboration portfolio is a critical KM strategy for KIBS firms to develop and promote external knowledge resources.
Moderating effect of gender on service convenience and customer satisfaction: an empirical study of Indian e-retailers
Authors: Shamsi Sheeraz , Khan Sablu , Khan Mohd Afaq
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The present study has been carried out to assess the effect of constructs of service convenience on customer satisfaction of the Indian online shoppers.

Design/methodology/approach

The primary data was collected through a structured questionnaire. Convenience sampling has been used to choose a sample (n = 260) of e-shoppers in India. Factor analyses (both EFA and CFA) have been done to validate different factors and its items. A conceptual model has been proposed to measure the effect of different factors of service convenience on customer satisfaction. Moreover, the perceived difference with respect to study variables has been measured. The path analysis through AMOS 22.0 has been done to test the hypotheses under study.

Findings

It can be concluded that the effect of access convenience, search convenience, and order convenience have significant effects on customer satisfaction. However, evaluation convenience and logistics and reverse logistics convenience have an insignificant effect on customer satisfaction. The present study has a unique contribution in the field of service convenience to e-retailing customers. Moreover, the present study indicates that gender does not moderate the effect of convenience on customer satisfaction.

Originality/value

This is one of the few papers that focuses solely on the effect of gender on service convenience and customer satisfaction. The findings will generate value with their originality and significant managerial implications for marketers, as well as future research directions for the researchers.
Greenwashing: a rapid escape from sustainability or a slow transition?
Authors: Yildirim Seda
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Some wrong methods have emerged in the form of greenwashing while on the way to becoming a green and sustainable brand or business. Recently, it has been questioned whether businesses or brands act by their green image. This study aims to determine whether greenwashing practices represent a slow transition to sustainability or a rapid escape.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used secondary data sources and reviewed collected secondary sources. It was a qualitative study due to its methodology. The findings were mostly based on the author’s assumptions through review results.

Findings

As a result of the review of the literature and current sources, it was determined that there are two sides of greenwashing: a dark side and a white side. The dark side of greenwashing represented a rapid escape from sustainability and the white side of greenwashing represented a slow transition to sustainability. Positive and negative elements were summarized in the study and the study gave an original model showing two sides of greenwashing.

Research limitations/implications

This study provides a viewpoint on greenwashing. This study is limited with its review results and used secondary data. Different approaches or different studies can explore different results for the related literature.

Practical implications

The purpose of this study is not to justify companies or brands employing greenwashing. However, for a sustainable future, the contribution of manufacturers, businesses and brands as the supply side has a vital value. Therefore, it is recommended to criticize greenwashing by encouraging brands and companies that are trying to take more positive steps in the transition to sustainability.

Social implications

Policymakers and individuals can improve the dark side of greenwashing. The biggest motive for sustainable production is the demand for green consumers. Accordingly, firms and brands will be sustainable and green in the long term in a good way as consumers and policymakers guide them in a good way.

Originality/value

This study gives an alternative view of greenwashing by comparing the dark side with the white side. The literature mostly expressed that greenwashing had bad implications but this study tried to find the good sides of greenwashing.
Evaluating the impact of internal control systems on organizational effectiveness
Authors: Otoo Frank Nana Kweku , Kaur Manpreet , Rather Nissar Ahmed
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Internal control systems are critical to an organization's efficiency and promotes the adherence to norms and rules. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the impact of internal control systems on banking industry effectiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 15 commercial and 20 rural banks. The hypothesized relationships were supported by the data. A structural equation modeling was applied in testing the conceptual model and hypothesis. Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted to establish validity and reliability of the dimensions.

Findings

The results show that organizational effectiveness was significantly impacted by three dimensions of internal control systems: control activities, control environments and risk assessment. However, the impact of monitoring of control on organizational effectiveness was not significant. The results also show a nonsignificant impact of information and communication on organizational effectiveness.

Research limitations/implications

Since the current study concentrated on the banking sector with its distinct characteristics, the generalizability of the conclusions may be limited.

Practical implications

The study's findings may aid decision-makers and stakeholders in the adoption, designing and implementation of proactive internal control system to enhance operational efficiency, effectiveness and competitive advantage.

Originality/value

The study advances the literature by empirically evidencing that internal control systems impact organizational effectiveness.
How perceived corporate social responsibility affects consumer citizenship behavior? Investigating the mediating roles of perceived employee behavior and consumer company identification
Authors: Utkarsh  , Singh Harmanjit
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to understand the detailed mechanism through which consumer citizenship behavior gets affected by corporate social responsibility through perceived employee behavior and consumer company identification.

Design/methodology/approach

The study subjects data from cross-sectional survey of 405 retail store consumers to structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results indicate that consumer company identification plays a very crucial role as it mediates the effect of corporate social responsibility and employee behavior on consumer citizenship behavior. In addition, the results also indicate that corporate social responsibility perceptions lead to positive employee behavior.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the literature on consumer citizenship behavior by identifying and filling up two major gaps in the retail outlets' context: (1) the limited empirical investigation of antecedents of consumer citizenship behavior up to third-level (i.e. antecedent of antecedent of antecedent) (2) the lack of clarity on the exact mechanism through which perceived corporate social responsibility influences consumer citizenship behavior, and the role of consumer company identification as a mediator in this relationship.
Building Parallel Supply Chains: How the Manufacturing Location Decision Influences Supply Chain Ambidexterity
Authors: Moradlou Hamid , Boffelli Albachiara , Mwesiumo Deodat Edward , Benstead Amy , Roscoe Samuel , Khayyam Sanaa
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this paper is to examine how managers can develop ‘parallel’ supply chains to overcome the efficiency/flexibility trade‐offs of offshored versus reshored/nearshored production. Primary evidence is gathered from 22 field interviews with eight companies from multiple countries, all operating in the textile and apparel industry. The interview data is triangulated using a cross‐industry focus group with 28 participants and secondary sources including company annual reports and website information. The study contributes to organizational ambidexterity theory by identifying how companies embed structural ambidexterity in their supply chains, and in so doing create ‘parallel supply chains’. Our findings show that companies partition their production in terms of width (meaning that specific product lines were relocated) and depth (meaning that specific production activities were relocated). Companies then use a mix of offshored production facilities to manufacture low‐margin, long‐lead‐time products as well as reshored/nearshored production facilities to make high‐margin, quick‐response items. The ability to swap production volumes between parallel supply chains enables supply chain ambidexterity, which in turn allows companies to exploit efficiency and flexibility benefits simultaneously. Managers are provided with an empirically informed, step‐by‐step framework for developing structural ambidexterity and building parallel supply chains.
Addressing adverse synergies between chemical and biological pollutants at schools—The ‘SynAir‐G’ hypothesis
Authors: Papadopoulos Nikolaos G. , Akdis Cezmi , Akdis Mubeccel , Damialis Athanasios , Esposito Giuseppina , Fergadiotou Ioana , Goroncy Christian , Guitton Pierre , Gotua Maia , Erotokritou Kleanthis , Jartti Tuomas , Murray Clare , Nenes Athanasios , Nikoletseas Sotirios , Finotto Susetta , Pandis Spyros N. , Ramiconi Valeria , Simpson Angela , Soudunsaari Aki , Stårbröst Anna , Staiano Maria , Varriale Antonio , Xepapadaki Paraskevi , Zuberbier Torsten , Annesi‐Maesano Isabella ,   The SynAir‐G Consortium
Published: September 2023

While the number and types of indoor air pollutants is rising, much is suspected but little is known about the impact of their potentially synergistic interactions, upon human health. Gases, particulate matter, organic compounds but also allergens and viruses, fall within the ‘pollutant’ definition. Distinct populations, such as children and allergy and asthma sufferers are highly susceptible, while a low socioeconomic background is a further susceptibility factor; however, no specific guidance is available. We spend most of our time indoors; for children, the school environment is of paramount importance and potentially amenable to intervention. The interactions between some pollutant classes have been studied. However, a lot is missing with respect to understanding interactions between specific pollutants of different classes in terms of concentrations, timing and sequence, to improve targeting and upgrade standards. SynAir‐G is a European Commission‐funded project aiming to reveal and quantify synergistic interactions between different pollutants affecting health, from mechanisms to real life, focusing on the school setting. It will develop a comprehensive and responsive multipollutant monitoring system, advance environmentally friendly interventions, and disseminate the generated knowledge to relevant stakeholders in accessible and actionable formats. The aim of this article it to put forward the SynAir‐G hypothesis, and describe its background and objectives.
Individual and contextual predictors of young Ukrainian adults' subjective well‐being during the Russian–Ukrainian war
Authors: Pavlova Iuliia , Krauss Steven , McGrath Breeda , Cehajic‐Clancy Sabina , Bodnar Ivanna , Petrytsa Petro , Synytsya Tetiana , Zhara Hanna
Published: September 2023

The Russian invasion of Ukraine is accompanied by horrific losses among civilians. This study investigates various individual (hope, optimism, resilience, post‐traumatic growth, and coping strategies) and contextual predictors (experience of life under occupation, actively hostile home environment, and frequent moves) of subjective well‐being among the youth living in Ukraine. A total sample of 593 students from several universities participated in the study using surveys that contained questions about sociodemographic characteristics, life satisfaction, hope, optimism, personal post‐traumatic growth, resilience, and coping strategies. Data were analyzed using JAMOVI software. The level of dissatisfaction with their own lives was 34.7%; most of the respondents had a higher incidence of minimal/mild hopelessness (88.7%) and high/moderate level of optimism (60.9%). The majority of participants had moderate and high levels of post‐traumatic growth (51.9% and 6.7%, respectively) and resilience (46.0% and 14.5%, respectively). Optimism, hope, resilience, post‐traumatic growth, using emotional support, and life in occupation predicted life satisfaction among the study sample.
Variants in PCSK7, PNPLA3 and TM6SF2 are risk factors for the development of cirrhosis in hereditary haemochromatosis
Authors: Buch Stephan , Sharma Aneesh , Ryan Eleanor , Datz Christian , Griffiths William J. H. , Way Michael , Buckley Thomas W. M. , Ryan John D. , Stewart Stephen , Wright Callum , Dongiovanni Paola , Fracanzani Anna , Zwerina Jochen , Merle Uta , Weiss Karl Heinz , Aigner Elmar , Krones Elisabeth , Dejaco Christian , Fischer Janett , Berg Thomas , Valenti Luca , Zoller Heinz , McQuillin Andrew , Hampe Jochen , Stickel Felix , Morgan Marsha Y.
Published: September 2023

Background

Cirrhosis develops in <10% of individuals homozygous for the C282Y variant in the homeostatic iron regulator (HFE) gene. Carriage of PCSK7:rs236918 is associated with an increased risk of cirrhosis in this population.

Aim

To determine if genetic variants significantly associated with the risk of alcohol‐ and NAFLD‐related cirrhosis also modulate the cirrhosis risk in C282Y homozygotes.

Methods

Variants in PCSK7, PNPLA3, TM6SF2, MBOAT7 and HSD17B13 were genotyped in 1319 C282Y homozygotes, from six European countries, of whom 171 (13.0%) had cirrhosis. Genotypic and allelic associations with the risk for developing cirrhosis were assessed, adjusting for age and sex. Fixed effects meta‐analyses of the adjusted summary data for each country were performed. Post hoc association testing was undertaken in the 131 (76.6%) cases and 299 (26.0%) controls with available liver histology.

Results

Significant associations were observed between PCSK7:rs236918 (OR = 1.52 [95% CI 1.06‐2.19]; P = 0.022; I2 = 0%); PNPLA3:rs738409 (OR = 1.60 [95% CI 1.22‐2.11]; P = 7.37 × 10−4; I2 = 45.5%) and TM6SF2:rs58542926 (OR = 1.94 [95% CI 1.28‐2.95]; P = 1.86 × 10−3; I2 = 0%) and the cirrhosis risk in C282Y homozygotes. These findings remained significant in the subpopulation with available liver histology. The population‐attributable fractions were 5.6% for PCSK7:rs236918, 13.8% for PNPLA3:rs738409, 6.5% for TM6SF2:rs58542926 and 24.0% for carriage of all three variants combined.

Conclusions

The risk of cirrhosis associated with carriage of PCSK7:rs236918 was confirmed in this much larger population of C282Y homozygotes. In addition, PNPLA3:rs738409 and TM6SF2:rs58542926 were established as significant additional risk factors. More detailed genetic testing of C282Y homozygotes would allow risk stratification and help guide future management.
Serum hepatitis B core‐related antigen level stratifies risk of disease progression in chronic hepatitis B patients with intermediate viral load
Authors: Tseng Tai‐Chung , Liu Chun‐Jen , Yang Wan‐Ting , Hsu Chen‐Yang , Hong Chun‐Ming , Su Tung‐Hung , Tsai Cheng‐Hsueh , Chen Chi‐Ling , Yang Hung‐Chih , Liu Chen‐Hua , Chen Hsiu‐Hsi , Chen Pei‐Jer , Kao Jia‐Horng
Published: September 2023

Background

Patients with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection are at risk of developing liver disease. Serum hepatitis B core‐related antigen (HBcrAg) is a new biomarker for intrahepatic templates for HBV replication.

Aim

To explore whether a high HBcrAg level is associated with increased risk of cirrhosis, especially in patients with intermediate viral load (HBV DNA 2000‐19 999 IU/mL) due to their moderate risk of disease progression.

Methods

A total of 1673 treatment‐naïve, non‐cirrhotic patients with negative hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level <40 U/L at baseline were enrolled. We explored the relationship between baseline levels of HBcrAg and cirrhosis development in all patients, and whether a higher HBcrAg level (<10 vs ≥10 KU/mL) was associated with an increased risk of disease progression in those with intermediate viral load.

Results

Of the 1673 patients, 104 developed cirrhosis after a mean follow‐up of 15.9 years. Higher HBcrAg levels were associated with increased incidence of cirrhosis, cirrhosis‐related complications, and liver‐related death. In 445 patients with intermediate viral load, the cirrhosis risk stratified by HBcrAg level of 10 KU/mL yielded a hazard ratio of 3.22 (95% CI: 1.61‐6.47). The risk stratification remained significant when exploring other pre‐cirrhosis endpoints, including HBeAg‐negative hepatitis, hepatitis flare, and HBV DNA >20 000 IU/mL after 3 years of follow‐up.

Conclusions

In HBeAg‐negative patients with normal ALT levels, higher HBcrAg levels are associated with increased risk of cirrhosis. Among those with intermediate viral load, HBcrAg <10 KU/mL defines a low‐risk group for disease progression.
Applications of machine learning models in the prediction of gastric cancer risk in patients after Helicobacter pylori eradication
Authors: Leung Wai K. , Cheung Ka Shing , Li Bofei , Law Simon Y. K. , Lui Thomas K. L.
Published: September 2023

Background

The risk of gastric cancer after Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication remains unknown.

Aim

To evaluate the performances of seven different machine learning models in predicting gastric cancer risk after H. pylori eradication.

Methods

We identified H. pylori‐infected patients who had received clarithromycin‐based triple therapy between 2003 and 2014 in Hong Kong. Patients were divided into training (n = 64 238) and validation sets (n = 25 330), according to period of eradication therapy. The data were used to construct seven machine learning models to predict risk of gastric cancer development within 5 years after H. pylori eradication. A total of 26 clinical variables were input into these models. The performances were measured by the area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) analysis.

Results

During a mean follow‐up of 4.7 years, 0.21% of H. pylori‐eradicated patients developed gastric cancer. Of the seven machine learning models, extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) had the best performance in predicting cancer development (AUC 0.97, 95%CI 0.96‐0.98), and was superior to conventional logistic regression (AUC 0.90, 95% CI 0.84‐0.92). With the XGBoost model, the number of patients considered at high risk of gastric cancer was 6.6%, with miss rate of 1.9%. Patient age, presence of intestinal metaplasia, and gastric ulcer were the heavily weighted factors used by the XGBoost.

Conclusion

Based on simple baseline patient information, machine learning model can accurately predict the risk of post‐eradication gastric cancer. This model could substantially reduce the number of patients who require endoscopic surveillance.
Editorial: machine learning models for gastric cancer risk prediction
Authors: Spaander Manon C. W. , Kuipers Ernst J.
Published: September 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Leung et al and Leung & Lui papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16272 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16319
Editorial: stratifying risk of adverse outcomes in cirrhosis—the Hepquant SHUNT test. Authors' reply
Authors: Asrani Sumeet K. , Everson Gregory T.
Published: September 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Fallahzadeh et al and Maan & Sonneveld papers. To view these articles, visithttps://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16283andhttps://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16299
Letter: tenofovir may be superior to entecavir for treatment‐naïve chronic hepatitis B patients
Authors: Wang Ji‐Gan , Chen Rui , Wang Li‐Chuan
Published: September 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Pol et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16197 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16340
Early detection of anti‐drug antibodies during initiation of anti‐tumour necrosis factor therapy predicts treatment discontinuation in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Tournier Quentin , Paul Stephane , Williet Nicolas , Berger Anne‐Emmanuelle , Veyrard Pauline , Boschetti Gilles , Le Roy Bertrand , Killian Martin , Phelip Jean Marc , Flourie Bernard , Nancey Stephane , Roblin Xavier
Published: September 2023

Background

Anti‐drug antibodies develop mostly during the induction therapy with anti‐tumour necrosis factor (TNF) drugs and can be revealed by means of a drug‐tolerant assay.

Aim

To investigate whether the early detection of anti‐drug antibodies during the induction therapy was predictive of treatment discontinuation.

Methods

In a prospective study, consecutive patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), who should start an anti‐TNF, were enrolled and followed regularly during 24 months or less in case of non‐ or loss of response (LOR) or adverse events requiring treatment discontinuation. Anti‐TNF levels and anti‐drug antibodies were measured at week 2 for adalimumab (ADA) and weeks 2 and 6 for infliximab (IFX) using a drug‐tolerant assay.

Results

One hundred and eight patients were enrolled (54 under ADA). At week 2, antibodies to ADA and to IFX were detected in 76% and 67% of patients. Time to treatment discontinuation was significantly shorter (P < 0.001) in patients with antibodies to ADA ≥2.0 µg/mL‐eq (6.0 vs 24 months, HR = 18.51, 95% CI [4.35‐78.71]) or with antibodies to IFX ≥4.0 µg/mL‐eq (5.5 vs >24 months, HR = 13.89, 95% CI [4.08‐47.31]) at week 2 compared to patients without positive antibodies. Antibodies to ADA and to IFX were predictive of treatment failure within 24 months with a sensitivity of 79% and 62%, and specificities and positive predictive values of 100%. In multivariate analysis, antibodies to ADA or to IFX at week 2 were the only factors associated with treatment discontinuation.

Conclusions

The prevalence of antibodies to anti‐TNF is high when detected early using a drug‐tolerant assay, and their appearance predicts further treatment discontinuation.
Editorial: felcisetrag—forward movement as a novel prokinetic for gastroparesis
Authors: Rogers Benjamin D. , Sayuk Gregory S.
Published: September 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Chedid et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16304
Editorial: enhancing colorectal cancer screening participation—the check is in the mail
Authors: Jeyalingam Thurarshen , Heitman Steven J.
Published: September 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Peterse et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16317