bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Posts are my own”: effects of social media disclaimers on perceptions of employees and their organizations from tweets and retweets
Authors: Carr Caleb T. , Hayes Rebecca A. , Piercy Cameron W.
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study empirically assesses the perceptions the public has of employees and their organization following a [re]tweet, and the additional potential ameliorating effect of a disclaimer distancing the organization from the individual employee's social media presence.

Design/methodology/approach

A fully crossed 2 (disclaimer vs. no disclaimer) × 2 (positive vs. negative valence post) × 2 (post vs. retweet) experiment exposed participants (N = 173) to an employee's personal tweet. Resultant perceptions of both the poster (i.e., goodwill) and the poster's organization (i.e., organizational reputation) were analyzed using planned contrast analyses.

Findings

Findings reveal audiences form impressions of individuals based on both tweeted and retweeted content. Perceptions of both the poster's goodwill and the poster's organization were commensurate with the valence of the poster's tweets, stronger when posts were original tweets rather than retweets, and there was a significant interaction effect between valence and [re]tweet. Disclaimers did not significantly affect perceptions, suggesting employers may be better served by asking employees to omit reference to their employer on their personal social media accounts.

Originality/value

This research contributes to understanding how employee and organizational reputation are affected by employees' personal social media content. Results suggest that even when a disclaimer explicitly seeks to distance an employee from the organization, audiences still see the employee as an informal brand ambassadors of their organization.
Moderating effects of uncertainty on relative brand trust–love
Authors: Marmat Geeta
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to provide information that reflects the true state of affairs and to develop a conceptual model that examines the moderating effect of uncertainty on relative brand trust–love.

Design/methodology/approach

Extant empirical studies, conceptual literature and related theories were identified and integrated to develop the conceptual model.

Findings

Findings of the study suggest that relative brand trust–love arises because of different components of uncertainty. Relative brand trust–love exhibited by the customer is moderated by uncertainty at the individual level, brand level and technology level. These uncertainties represent the situation that considers if relative brand trust–love can be enhanced. A few propositions have been suggested for such situations to enhance relative brand trust–love.

Research limitations/implications

This paper proposes a conceptual model and also makes research propositions that need to be validated and confirmed empirically. It adds value to theoretical advancements in strengthening the customer–brand relationship. Furthermore, results suggest that relative brand trust–love can be improved over time if these components can be supported by increasing information at different levels. The conclusions will be informative to practitioners and brand managers in strengthening a brand into the market more effectively. Moreover, it can transform the brand into a global brand and help build sustainable long-term relationships. Findings can be useful and interesting information for the researchers who are interested in finding strategic ways for effective decision-making related to brand trust and brand love.

Originality/value

The conceptual model, and the propositions related to different levels of uncertainty, and its effect on relative brand trust–love, is a new approach in enhancing relative brand trust–love and hence helpful in strengthening the quality of customer–brand relationships.
The importance of a critical mass of women on boards to reduce the gender pay disparity among non-executive directors
Authors: Tarkovska Valentina , Gabaldon Patricia , Ratiu Raluca Valeria
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The interest in promoting diversity in corporate governance is increasing gender equality on boards. Even so, previous research shows that women are underrepresented on boards of directors. This study aims to explore how an increasing presence of women on boards reduces gender pay disparity among nonexecutive directors (NEDs).

Design/methodology/approach

This study explores how an increasing presence of women on boards reduces gender pay disparity among NEDs.

Findings

The results indicate that for boards to reduce the gender pay disparity among NEDs, women need to reach a critical mass of 33% of board members. In addition, this study finds that women’s presence on influential committees further reduces the gender pay disparity among NEDs.

Research limitations/implications

The study uses critical mass and social identity theories to explain the impact of women directors on NEDs’ remuneration in a sample of 365 companies listed on the London Stock Exchange over 16 years (1999–2015). The findings indicate the importance of reducing gender pay disparity as a tool to promote gender equality on boards.

Practical implications

This study provides evidence on the importance of corporations including gender diversity on board committees to reduce gender pay disparities at the board level.

Originality/value

In addition, this study finds that women’s presence on influential committees further reduces gender pay disparity among NEDs.
Multiparty mediation in a changing world: the emergence and impact of parallel processes to UN peacemaking in Syria and Libya
Authors: Hellmüller Sara , Salaymeh Bilal
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to study recent approaches to peacemaking, particularly by Turkey and Russia, in a changing world and their implications for UN-led peace processes. The authors analyze the factors that allow parallel processes to UN mediation to emerge and discuss their influence.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents two in-depth case studies of mediation in Syria and Libya, where the UN, as well as Russia and Turkey, were actively involved in peacemaking.

Findings

The authors find that parallel processes to UN mediation emerge if the UN process does not show progress toward a negotiated settlement and other third parties have leverage over the conflict parties. However, whether these parallel processes pose a fundamental challenge to the UN-led process depends on how sustained the third parties’ leverage over the conflict parties is. If it lasts, it puts the UN in a difficult position to either participate in the parallel process and contain it but thereby also legitimizing it, or to abstain from participating but thereby risking to lose control over the mediation process.

Research limitations/implications

Analyzing different approaches to mediation helps to better understand current dynamics of multiparty mediation, including an increased questioning of the effectiveness of UN mediation, and provides insights on how the UN may adapt to keep its relevance in a changing world.

Originality/value

The paper is based on original first-hand data gathered between 2018 and 2022 through more than 50 interviews with UN officials, negotiation team members, political and civil society actors from Syria and Libya, (former) state officials and experts from Russia and Turkey, as well as external observers.
Implications of sustainability initiatives on African Continental Free Trade adoption by firms under environmental uncertainty
Authors: Appiah Michael Karikari , Toseafa Evelyn , Sam Aloysius , Danso Felix , Nsowah Alex
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Despite the enormous expectant opportunities from the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), including creating a single continental market for goods and services, trade and investment, one key deterrent has remained fiercely unresolved due to failed trajectories with similar regional markets initiatives in the continent, and that is environmental uncertainty. To address this concern, this paper aims to develop a sustainability enabled-model to facilitate the adoption of AfCFTA under uncertain environment conditions to guide prospective investors and facilitators.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is anchored on quantitative research approach and positivists’ paradigm. Survey strategy has been used to collect data from 520 medium-sized firms across Ghana. Data analyses have been conducted with the using smart partial least squares version 3.3.3 analytical tool and structural equation modeling modality.

Findings

The findings have showed that institutionalization, supply chain integration, supply chain resilience and innovativeness have positive effects on AfCFTA adoption under uncertainty. Moreover, AfCFTA adoption provides mechanisms through which to attain sustainable supply chain performance. Meanwhile, environmental uncertainty negatively influences AfCFTA adoption, and weakens the relationships between the adoption and sustainability performance.

Originality/value

This paper has developed an integrated investment decision model to facilitate AfCFTA adoption under environmental uncertainty. It provides new insights into the African free market to guide policymakers, practitioners, academics and promoters of AfCFTA on sustainability initiatives that influence its adoption under uncertainty. Moreover, the new model, which serves as a strategic tool for decision-making, could be used to stimulate the ratification and the trade facilitation measures to build strong confidence in current and prospective investors.
Financial inclusion and performance of MSMEs in Eswatini
Authors: Anthanasius Fomum Tita , Opperman Pieter
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) are the backbone of economic development for every economy. They contribute to local economic development through household wealth creation, employment generation and poverty reduction. Despite this pivotal role, MSMEs lack access to finance, and scholarship on the enabling role of financial inclusion on micro, small and medium-sized enterprises' performance is scant. The authors contribute to closing the knowledge gap by examining the enabling effect of financial inclusion on MSMEs using the FinScope MSME 2017 survey for the Kingdom of Eswatini. This paper aims to discuss the aforementioned objective.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used the re-centered influence function regression framework to estimate unconditional quantile regressions and the generalized ordered logit model to analyze the data.

Findings

The findings from the unconditional quantile regression revealed that small changes in access to bank accounts, saving for business, formal saving, stokvel and informal saving at the 50th and 75th percentiles have a positive and statistically significant effect on microenterprises' annual turnover profit. Conversely, small changes in formal insurance have a mixed effect on annual turnover profit. At the 10th and 25th percentiles, a small increment in insurance reduces annual turnover profit but increases microenterprise annual turnover profit at the 75th percentile. Meanwhile, the evidence from the generalized ordered logit model showed that financial inclusion reduces the likelihood of microenterprises being classified as least developed and increased the chances of microenterprises falling into emerging and developed business categories.

Research limitations/implications

This study makes use of a cross-sectional survey dataset, as a result, it does not infer causal relationships over the long term, but rather an association between the independent and dependent variables.

Practical implications

Overall, formal and informal financial inclusion enhances the annual turnover profit for microenterprises, particularly at the 50th and 75th percentiles in the Kingdom of Eswatini. The authors recommend a specialized institution such as a micro, small and medium-sized partial credit guarantee scheme to improve the quality and affordability of credit for microenterprises, and a mix of financial and non-financial supports depending on the development stage to boost a sustainable microenterprises' sector.

Originality/value

The study uses two advanced cross-sectional techniques, the recentered influence function framework and the generalized ordered logit model to analyze the data. The paper is original and contributes to the discussion of the role of financial inclusion in enabling microenterprises' success in Africa, using the FinScope 2017 survey of microenterprises in Eswatini as a case study.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-10-2020-0689.
Tap here to power up! Mobile augmented reality for consumer empowerment
Authors: Aw Eugene Cheng-Xi , Tan Garry Wei-Han , Ooi Keng-Boon , Hajli Nick
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The present study aims to propose a framework elucidating the attributes of mobile augmented reality (AR) shopping apps (i.e., spatial presence, perceived personalization and perceived intrusiveness) and how they translate to downstream consumer-related outcomes (i.e., immersion, psychological ownership and stickiness to the retailer).

Design/methodology/approach

By conducting a questionnaire-based survey, 308 responses were collected, and the data were submitted to partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and artificial neural network (ANN) analyses.

Findings

A few important findings were generated from the present study. First, attributes of mobile augmented reality shopping apps (i.e., spatial presence, perceived personalization and perceived intrusiveness) influence stickiness to the retailer through immersion and consumer empowerment in serial. Second, immersion positively influences psychological ownership. Third, the optimum stimulation level moderates the relationship between spatial presence and immersion. Lastly, a post-hoc exploratory finding yielded by the multigroup analysis uncovered the moderating effect of gender.

Originality/value

This study offers a novel contribution to the smart retail literature by investigating the role of mobile AR shopping apps in predicting consumers' stickiness to the retailer. A holistic framework elucidating the serial mediating effect of immersion and consumer empowerment, and the moderating roles of optimum stimulation level and gender were validated.
Homeownership in the equilibrium unemployment theory
Authors: Lisi Gaetano
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This theoretical study aims to clarify the (a priori) ambiguous effect of homeownership on unemployment. In general, in fact, homeownership discourages job mobility, but homeowners are less likely to be unemployed than tenants, since homeownership would seem to be positively related to human capital.

Design/methodology/approach

This study develops a modified version of the benchmark theoretic model of the labour market – the well-known “equilibrium unemployment theory” – where homeownership affects both the “Beveridge Curve” (BC, by means of job immobility) and the “Job Creation Condition” (JCC, by means of human capital).

Findings

The general result is that an increase in homeownership increases unemployment. Therefore, policymakers could encourage job mobility, before facilitating homeownership. This policy implication, however, may not apply in the case of high inflation and/or low nominal interest rate, and when the job destruction rate depends on the homeownership rate.

Research limitations/implications

The model studies the steady-state equilibrium of the labour market, so the policy implications only relate to the long-run. The model, therefore, does not consider the short-run effects of homeownership on unemployment (which may differ from the long-term results).

Practical implications

The model suggests a public policy characterised by large investment in rail lines and subsidised commuter fares. By promoting a more efficient allocation of workers across regions (and, thus, job mobility), indeed, this policy can be a good way to increase employment, without harming homeownership.

Social implications

The practical implication of this model is also a social implication, since it relates to homeownership and housing tenure.

Originality/value

To the best of author’s knowledge, this is the first model that introduces the key role of homeownership in the so-called “Equilibrium unemployment theory”. Precisely, the model uses a modified version of both the BC (which includes the negative effect of homeownership on the overall job search intensity of unemployed workers) and the JCC (which includes the positive effect of homeownership on both the business start-up and the human capital of workers). By comparing these two opposite effects, this theoretical work makes clearer the net effect of homeownership on unemployment.
Disclosing sales compensation and its impacts on misleading sales behaviors: some observations from Taiwan’s life insurance salespeople
Authors: Lu Yu-Hsien , Kang Yue-Min , Tseng Lu-Ming
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore how sales compensation disclosure, salespeople’s perception of corporate social responsibility (CSR) toward customers (i.e. customer-focused CSR), regulatory knowledge and coworkers’ ethical behavior may influence life insurance salespeople’s moral intensity and intentions to engage in misleading sales behaviors.

Design/methodology/approach

The hypotheses are analyzed using partial least squares (PLS) regression with the data gathered from full-time life insurance salespeople in Taiwan.

Findings

The main findings indicate that disclosing sales compensations will alter the ethical decision-making process of life insurance salespeople. The findings further point out that customer-focused CSR is an important variable affecting moral intensity and ethical intentions.

Originality/value

There has not been any research on the effects of compensation disclosure on moral intensity and misleading sales behavior. The literature gap has led to a poor understanding of the relationship between the compensation disclosure policy and ethical sales behavior. Moreover, previous studies indicate that specific factors (such as moral intensity and ethical intention) are directly associated, while the research shows that as long as a regulatory policy (e.g. the policy of compensation disclosure) changes, the correlation between these variables may shift from significant to nonsignificant (or vice versa). The results are interesting enough to warrant more research, and they also show that the direct link between variables mentioned in previous research is not always stable or universal.
Hybrid heuristic methods exercising to optimize the friction stir welding process parameters for improving the prepared butt joints mechanical properties
Authors: Rana Amit , Deshwal Sandeep , Rajesh Rajesh , Hooda Naveen
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The weld joint mechanical properties of friction stir welding (FSW) are majorly reliant on different input parameters of the FSW machine. The study and optmization of these parameters is uttermost requirement and aim of this study to increase the suitability of FSW in different manufacturing industries. Hence, the input parameters are optimized through different soft computing methods to increase the considered objective in this study.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research, ultimate tensile strength (UTS), yield strength (YS) and elongation (EL) of FSW prepared butt joints of AA6061 and AA5083 Aluminium alloys materials are investigated as per American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM E8-M04) standard. The FSW joints were prepared by changing the three input process parameters. To develop experimental run order design matrix, rotatable central composite design strategy was used. Furthermore, genetic algorithm (GA) in combination (Hybrid) with response surface methodology (RSM), artificial neural network (ANN), i.e. RSM-GA, ANN-GA, is exercised to optimize the considered process parameters.

Findings

The maximum value of UTS, YS and EL of test specimens on universal testing machine was measured as 264 MPa, 204 MPa and 14.41%, respectively. The most optimized results (UTS = 269.544 MPa, YS = 211.121 MPa and EL = 17.127%) are obtained with ANN-GA for the considered objectives.

Originality/value

The optimization of input parameters to increase the output objective values using hybrid soft computing techniques is unique in this research paper. The outcomes of this study will help the FSW using manufacturing industries to choose the best optimized parameters set for FSW prepared butt joint with improved mechanical properties.
The nonlinear analysis of tapered steel section with opening due to the effects of bending behavior
Authors: De’nan Fatimah , Hashim Nor Salwani , Mohamad Razak Mohd Yusri
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Tapered steel sections are widely used in house building design due to their structural efficiency and aesthetic appearance. Due to the practical usage of web tapering specifications in the metal building industry, fabrication and material expenses are analyzed to achieve geometric and economic productivity. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of utilizing web profiles with openings in reducing the weight of steel beams.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the nonlinear analysis of the bending behavior of a tapered steel section with an opening was studied by finite element analysis. The results were then compared with those of the tapered steel section without an opening in terms of displacement and yield moment.

Findings

The bending capacity of a tapered steel section was analyzed using finite element analysis. Results showed that the tapered steel section without openings had a higher bending capacity compared to the section with various sizes of web openings. The results also showed that decreasing the number of openings would increase the bending capacity, whereas increasing the size of the opening would decrease it. The difference in the yield moment between the tapered steel section with and without openings was only 15.818%. A total of 60 nonlinear analyses were conducted to investigate the effect of the number and size of web openings, flange thickness and web thickness on the bending behavior. However, this study showed that web opening with octagon shape and 0.6D size of web opening, where D is the depth of section, showed the best section in terms of yield moment and volume reduction compared to other opening size and shape.

Originality/value

It is also found that tapered steel section has better moment resistance in thicker flange and web. The study is valuable for engineers and designers who work with steel structures and need to optimize the performance of tapered steel sections with web openings.
Study of morphological, physical and mechanical properties of thin NbN films synthesized via DC magnetron sputtering system
Authors: Abdallah Bassam , Kakhia Mahmoud , Masloub Karam , Zetoune Walaa
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Niobium Nitride (NbN) was interesting material for its applications in the medicinal tools or tools field (corresponding to saline serum media) as well as in mechanical properties. The aim of this work was depositing NbN thin films on two types of substrates (stainless steel (SS304) and silicon (100)) using plasma technique at varied powers (100–150 W).

Design/methodology/approach

DC magnetron sputtering technique at different powers were used to synthesis NbN films. Film structure was studied using X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern. Rutherford elastic backscattering and energy dispersive X-ray were used to examine the deposited film composition. The films morphology was studied via atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy images. Corrosion resistance of the three NbN/SS304 films was studied in 0.9% NaCl environment (physiological standard saline).

Findings

All properties could be controlled by the modification of DC power, where the crystallinity of samples was changed and consequently the corrosion and microhardness were modified, which correlated with the power. NbN film deposited at higher power (150 W) has shown better corrosion resistance (0.9% NaCl), which had smaller grain size (smoother) and was thicker.

Originality/value

The NbN films have a preferred orientation (111) matching to cubic structure phase. Corrosion resistance was enhanced for the NbN films compared to SS304 substrates (noncoating). Therefore, NbN films deposited on SS304 substrate could be applied as medicinal tools as well as in mechanical fields.
Simultaneous development of generalized pustular psoriasis and pemphigoid with multiple autoantibodies in a complete responder of pembrolizumab for lung cancer
Authors: Kochi Yuna , Miyachi Hideaki , Tagashira Ryosuke , Koga Hiroshi , Ishii Norito , Sugiura Kazumitsu , Ikeda Jun‐ichiro , Matsue Hiroyuki , Inozume Takashi
Published: May 2023

Patients with psoriasis vulgaris have a higher incidence of pemphigoid than the general population. However, there are only a few concise reports on the coexistence of generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) and pemphigoid. The authors describe a rare case of the simultaneous development of GPP and pemphigoid with multiple autoantibodies (i.e., BP180–C‐terminal, 200‐kDa protein, and laminin 332 proteins) in a complete responder of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) treatment for lung cancer. Anti–interleukin 17 inhibitors for the GPP and oral corticosteroids at 10 mg/day for the pemphigoid effectively achieved remission in both diseases. It may not be uncommon to detect multiple autoantibodies in patients with pemphigoid; however, the detection of autoantibodies to more than three antigens in a single patient is relatively rare. In the current patient, the severe inflammation of GPP might have generated multiple autoantibodies. In addition, although pembrolizumab achieved a complete response and was discontinued 9 months before the onset of GPP and pemphigoid, the ICI might have affected the development of the two diseases. This case report adds useful information to the limited knowledge regarding the coexistence of GPP and pemphigoid, and aids in a better understanding of the pathological mechanisms and treatment options for such patients. Furthermore, the possibility that more patients may develop multiple autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases in the era of ICIs should be recognized.
Activity of a freshwater turtle varies across a latitudinal gradient: Implications for the success of assisted colonisation
Authors: Paget Siobhan , Gleiss Adrian C. , Kuchling Gerald , Mitchell Nicola J.
Published: May 2023

The value of assisted colonisation as a response to climate change can only be realised if focal species are well suited to their new habitats. For ectotherms, new habitats must offer microclimates that promote crucial behaviours such as thermoregulation and foraging.

The Western swamp turtle Pseudemydura umbrina, a Critically Endangered species from south‐western Australia, serves as a global case‐study of assisted colonisation in action. Initial trials where juvenile P. umbrina were released into wetter and cooler climates found that individuals spent considerable time at body temperatures that apparently limited their growth.

Using high‐resolution biologging data (temperature and depth), here we tested if turtle activity is thermally constrained in cooler latitudes by releasing 48 juveniles into seasonal swamps at three sites. One site was core natural habitat, and the other sites were wetlands 380 km apart that offered either warmer or cooler microclimates. Generalised additive mixed models were used to evaluate behaviours and time spent at optimal temperatures for approximately 1 month following release, and growth rates were measured and analysed after release until the end of the hydroperiod 4–5 months later.

We found that turtles released into the most poleward (southern) wetland spent significantly less time active and basking and grew significantly less compared to turtles released further north. When analysed together, behavioural and growth datasets showed that activity was positively correlated with growth rates.

We conclude that poor growth of turtles in the southern wetland was likely a result of lower body temperatures, stemming from a reduced ability to thermoregulate in water. Consequently, for assisted colonisation of juvenile P. umbrina to be successful, recipient wetlands must offer aquatic microclimates that are sufficiently warm to promote foraging activity that leads to growth, and ultimately to maturation.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Anticolonial thought, the sociological imagination, and social science: A reply to critics
Authors: Go Julian
Published: May 2023

This essay responds to commentaries (this issue) on Go's “Thinking Against Empire: Anticolonial Thought as Social Theory” (this issue). The essay addressed shared concerns and underlying themes of the commentaries, most of which pivot around the problem of the anticolonial and the status of disciplinary sociology as a knowledge project. Is there a need for sociology to incorporate anticolonial thought? How does anticolonial thought as social theory differ from other epistemic projects? Is the distinction between sociology's imperial episteme and anticolonial thought fruitful or obfuscating? And what are the possibilities and limits of a social science informed by anticolonial thought? Ultimately, the essay maintains that anticolonial thought offers a powerful sociological imagination that can be fruitfully tethered to a project of realist social science. It also maintains that realist social science can be emancipatory; provided that it is reoriented by anticolonial thought.
Progress in research on the safety of silicone rubber products in food processing
Authors: Liu Yi‐Qi , Wang Zhi‐Wei , Hu Chang‐Ying
Published: May 2023

Silicone rubber (SR) is widely used in the food processing industry due to its excellent physical and chemical properties. However, due to the differences in SR product production formulas and processes, the quality of commercially available SR products varies greatly, with chemical and biological hazard potentials. Residual chemicals in SR, such as siloxane oligomers and 2,4‐dichlorobenzoic acid, are non‐intentionally added substances, which may migrate into food during processing so the safe use of SR must be guaranteed. Simultaneously, SR in contact with food is susceptible to pathogenic bacteria growing and biofilm formation, like Cronobacter sakazakii, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella enteritidis, and Listeria monocytogenes, posing a food safety risk. Under severe usage scenarios such as high‐temperature, high‐pressure, microwave, and freezing environments with long‐term use, SR products are more prone to aging, and their degradation products may pose potential food safety hazards. Based on the goal of ensuring food quality and safety to the greatest extent possible, this review suggests that enterprises need to prepare high‐quality food‐contact SR products by optimizing the manufacturing formula and production process, and developing products with antibacterial and antiaging properties. The government departments should establish quality standards for food‐contact SR products and conduct effective supervision. Besides, the reusable SR products should be cleaned by consumers immediately after use, and the deteriorated products should be replaced as soon as possible.
Chemometric analysis of Tunisian durum wheat metabolites using UPLC‐ESI‐QTOF‐MS/MS
Authors: Manai‐Djebali Hédia , Taamalli Amani , Iswaldi Ihsan , Arráez‐Román David , Segura‐Carretero Antonio , Marouani Ahmed , Mliki Ahmed , Martínez‐Cañas Manuel A. , Ghorbel Abdelwahed
Published: May 2023

Bioactive compounds in wheat have received a great interest in the last few years due to their nutritional and health benefits. Various analytical procedures were used to identify these compounds in wheat kernels. An ultra‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionization quadrupole‐time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (UPLC–ESI‐QTOF‐MS/MS) was used for the screening of bioactive compounds in seven Tunisian durum wheat extracts. The aim of this study was to realize a screening of several classes of bioactive compounds in the same analysis and to identify specific metabolite markers for discriminating the durum wheat varieties. The UPLC‐ESI‐QTOF‐MS/MS allows the detection of 81 metabolites, belonging to different chemical families such as sugars, organic acids, amino acids, fatty acids, and phenolic compounds represented by benzoic and cinnamic acid derivatives, phenolic alcohols, flavones, lignans, and condensed tannins. Chemical profiles identified varied greatly between different wheat genotypes. As far as the authors know, this is the first time that different chemical classes were detected at the same time in durum wheat kernels using UPLC‐ESI‐QTOF‐MS/MS. This study gives the most complete map of metabolites in Tunisian durum wheat and proves that UPLC‐QTOF‐MS/MS coupled with chemometric analysis is a great tool for discrimination between durum wheat cultivars.
Temporal trends in agricultural water use and the relationships to hydroclimatic factors in the High Plains aquifer region
Authors: Ji Lei , Senay Gabriel B.
Published: May 2023

The High Plains aquifer (HPA) is the primary water source for agricultural irrigation in the US Great Plains. The water levels in many locations of the aquifer have declined steadily over the past several decades because the rate of water withdrawals exceeds recharge, which has been a serious concern to the water resources management in the region. We evaluated temporal trends and variations in agricultural water use and hydroclimatic variables including precipitation, air temperature, reference evapotranspiration, runoff, groundwater level, and terrestrial water storage across the HPA region for different periods from 1985 to 2020 at the grid, county, or region scale. The results showed that water withdrawals decreased from 21.3 km3/year in 1985 to 18.2 km3/year in 2015, while irrigated croplands increased from 71,928 km2 in 1985 to 78,464 km2 in 2015 in the entire HPA. The hydroclimatic time‐series showed wetting trends in most of the northern HPA, but drying and warming trends in the southern region from 1985 to 2020. The groundwater level time‐series indicated flat trends in the north, but significant declining in the central and southern HPA. Trends in irrigation water withdrawals and irrigation area across the HPA were controlled by the advancement of irrigation systems and technologies and the management of sustainable water use, but also were affected by dynamical changes in the hydroclimatic conditions.
Specific prediction of mortality by oxidative stress‐induced damage to RNA vs. DNA in humans
Authors: Jorgensen Anders , Brandslund Ivan , Ellervik Christina , Henriksen Trine , Weimann Allan , Andersen Per Kragh , Poulsen Henrik E.
Published: May 2023

Modifications of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) from oxidative stress is a potential driver of aging per se and of mortality in age‐associated medical disorders such as type 2 diabetes (T2D). In a human cohort, we found a strong prediction of all‐cause mortality by a marker of systemic oxidation of RNA in patients with T2D (n = 2672) and in nondiabetic control subjects (n = 4079). The finding persisted after the adjustment of established modifiers of oxidative stress (including BMI, smoking, and glycated hemoglobin). In contrast, systemic levels of DNA damage from oxidation, which traditionally has been causally linked to both T2D and aging, failed to predict mortality. Strikingly, these findings were subsequently replicated in an independent general population study (n = 3649). The data demonstrate a specific importance of RNA damage from oxidation in T2D and general aging.
The African killifish: A short‐lived vertebrate model to study the biology of sarcopenia and longevity
Authors: Ruparelia Avnika A. , Salavaty Adrian , Barlow Christopher K. , Lu Yansong , Sonntag Carmen , Hersey Lucy , Eramo Matthew J. , Krug Johannes , Reuter Hanna , Schittenhelm Ralf B. , Ramialison Mirana , Cox Andrew , Ryan Michael T. , Creek Darren J. , Englert Christoph , Currie Peter D.
Published: May 2023

Sarcopenia, the age‐related decline in muscle function, places a considerable burden on health‐care systems. While the stereotypic hallmarks of sarcopenia are well characterized, their contribution to muscle wasting remains elusive, which is partly due to the limited availability of animal models. Here, we have performed cellular and molecular characterization of skeletal muscle from the African killifish—an extremely short‐lived vertebrate—revealing that while many characteristics deteriorate with increasing age, supporting the use of killifish as a model for sarcopenia research, some features surprisingly reverse to an “early‐life” state in the extremely old stages. This suggests that in extremely old animals, there may be mechanisms that prevent further deterioration of skeletal muscle, contributing to an extension of life span. In line with this, we report a reduction in mortality rates in extremely old killifish. To identify mechanisms for this phenomenon, we used a systems metabolomics approach, which revealed that during aging there is a striking depletion of triglycerides, mimicking a state of calorie restriction. This results in the activation of mitohormesis, increasing Sirt1 levels, which improves lipid metabolism and maintains nutrient homeostasis in extremely old animals. Pharmacological induction of Sirt1 in aged animals was sufficient to induce a late life‐like metabolic profile, supporting its role in life span extension in vertebrate populations that are naturally long‐lived. Collectively, our results demonstrate that killifish are not only a novel model to study the biological processes that govern sarcopenia, but they also provide a unique vertebrate system to dissect the regulation of longevity.
Arbitrage across different Bitcoin exchange venues: Perspectives from investor base and market related events
Authors: Shu Ao , Cheng Feiyang , Han Jianlei , Liang Zini , Pan Zheyao
Published: May 2023

This paper examines the impact of market related events and investor base on the spread of Bitcoin prices between two exchange platforms, Coinbase and Binance. Based on high‐frequency data samples collected from 2019 to 2021, we show how investors from different bases react differently to market related events, which create the price spreads between exchange platforms. We also identify the arbitrage opportunities these spreads create and establish arbitrage strategies for all identified events to exploit the variations in Bitcoin prices traded on both platforms. Findings indicate arbitrage offers profits that are higher overall than holding Bitcoin on either platform.
The epidemiology of new persistent hypnotic/sedative use after surgical procedures: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Magnusson D. H. , Albertsson T. I. , Jonsdottir F. , Sigurdsson M. I.
Published: May 2023

The use of hypnotic and sedative medication for sleep improvement is common and long‐term use has been associated with an increased risk of adverse events and mortality. A proportion of patients might develop long‐term use after initiating new persistent use following surgery. This retrospective cohort study aimed to determine the incidence of new persistent hypnotic/sedative use after surgical procedures and associated patient and procedural factors. Data on prescriptions for hypnotic and sedative medications used for sleep improvement were retrieved from the National Prescription Medicine Registry. Medication naivety was defined as not filling a prescription for hypnotics/sedatives from 365 days through 31 days preceding surgery, new use was defined as medication naivety followed by filling a prescription for hypnotic/sedative medication from 30 days before surgery through 14 days after surgery. New persistent hypnotic/sedative use was defined as new use followed by filling another hypnotic/sedative prescription from 15 days through 365 days after surgery. Of 55,414 patients included in the study, 43,297 were naive to hypnotic/sedative medications. Of those naive patients, 4.6% met the criteria for new peri‐operative use, of whom 51.6% developed new persistent hypnotic/sedative use. Patient and procedural factors associated with increased risk of new persistent use were older age; female sex; the presence of malignant neoplasm; ischaemic heart disease; and having undergone either cardiac or thoracic surgery. The hazard of long‐term mortality was higher for patients with new persistent use (1.39, 95%CI 1.22–1.59) compared with patients who remained naive. While a small ratio of surgical patients initiates the use of hypnotics/sedatives in the peri‐operative period, a substantial proportion of these develop persistent use, which is associated with adverse outcomes. Over time, the proportion of patients using hypnotics/sedatives has declined, but the risk of persistent use within this group has remained stable.
Upregulated expression of a TOR2A gene product‐salusin‐β in the paraventricular nucleus enhances sympathetic activity and cardiac sympathetic afferent reflex in rats with chronic heart failure induced by coronary artery ligation
Authors: Xu Yu , Fei Xuejie , Fu Hangjiang , Chen Aidong , Zhu Xinrui , Zhang Feng , Han Ying
Published: May 2023

Aim

Enhanced cardiac sympathetic afferent reflex (CSAR) promotes sympathetic hyperactivation in chronic heart failure (CHF). Salusin‐β is a torsin family 2 member A (TOR2A) gene product and a cardiovascular active peptide closely associated with cardiovascular diseases. We aimed to determine the roles of salusin‐β in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) in modulating enhanced CSAR and sympathetic hyperactivation in rats with CHF induced by coronary artery ligation and elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms.

Methods

CSAR was evaluated based on the responses of mean arterial pressure (MAP) and renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA) to the epicardial administration of capsaicin in rats under anesthesia.

Results

Salusin‐β protein expression was upregulated in the PVN of the CHF compared with sham‐operated rats. Salusin‐β microinjection into the PVN dose‐dependently increased MAP and RSNA and enhanced CSAR, while anti‐salusin‐β IgG exerted opposite effects. The effect of salusin‐β was inhibited by reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenger or NAD(P)H oxidase inhibitor but promoted by superoxide dismutase inhibitor. The effect of anti‐salusin‐β IgG was interdicted by nitric oxide (NO) synthase inhibitor. Furthermore, chronic salusin‐β gene knockdown in PVN attenuated CSAR, reduced sympathetic output, improved myocardial remodeling and cardiac function, decreased NAD(P)H oxidase activity and ROS levels, and increased NO levels in the CHF rats.

Conclusion

Increased salusin‐β activity in the PVN contributes to sympathetic hyperactivation and CSAR in CHF by inhibiting NO release and stimulating NAD(P)H oxidase‐ROS production. Reducing endogenous central salusin‐β expression might be a novel strategy for preventing and treating CHF in the future.
The effect of sunscreen 4‐methylbenzylidene camphor in different and reproductive models, its bioaccumulation and molecular effects on ligand‐receptor interaction, and protein expression
Authors: Lax Cassandra , Wicksell Elin , Grip Anastasia , Niemi Jenni Viivi Linnea , Liu Wen , Rafeletou Alexandra , Kudłak Błażej , Schiöth Helgi B.
Published: May 2023

4‐Methylbenzylidene camphor (4‐MBC) is a photo‐absorbing UV filter prevalently used in cosmetics, which can be absorbed into circulation and cause systemic effects. 4‐MBC is continued to be released in the environment despite the growing knowledge about its bioaccumulation and endocrine disrupting effects. Previous reviews have mentioned UV‐filter together but this review considers 4‐MBC alone, due to its prevalence and concerning health effects. This review considers 4‐MBC's potential effects on human health regarding systemic and molecular effects, with the main focus on reproduction. Also, the potential bioaccumulation and interactions with receptor systems such as the oestrogen receptors β and α, and progesterone receptor are covered. Additionally, previous studies about 4‐MBC's effects on mRNA and protein expression, especially in the prostate and the brain are analysed. Furthermore, 4‐MBC is reported to act with inflammatory pathways by activating p38 MAPK and NF‐κB, leading to the production of inflammatory TNF‐α and IL‐6. 4‐MBC was also found to induce apoptosis and inhibit cell proliferation and DNA repair. In conclusion, 4‐MBC has wide‐ranging effects in many different models interacting with multiple pathways causing long‐term effects even at low doses and this knowledge can guide governmental risk assessment, regulation divisions and chemical industries.
Novel biallelic variants expand the phenotype of NAA20‐related syndrome
Authors: D'Onofrio Gianluca , Cuccurullo Claudia , Larsen Silje Kathrine , Severino Mariasavina , D'Amico Alessandra , Brønstad Kirsten , AlOwain Mohammed , Morrison Jennifer L. , Wheeler Patricia G. , Webb Bryn D. , Alfalah Abdullah , Iacomino Michele , Uva Paolo , Coppola Antonietta , Merla Giuseppe , Salpietro Vincenzo Damiano , Zara Federico , Striano Pasquale , Accogli Andrea , Arnesen Thomas , Bilo Leonilda
Published: May 2023

NAA20 is the catalytic subunit of the NatB complex, which is responsible for N‐terminal acetylation of approximately 20% of the human proteome. Recently, pathogenic biallelic variants in NAA20 were associated with a novel neurodevelopmental disorder in five individuals with limited clinical information. We report two sisters harboring compound heterozygous variant (c.100C>T (p.Gln34Ter) and c.11T>C p.(Leu4Pro)) in the NAA20 gene, identified by exome sequencing. In vitro studies showed that the missense variant p.Leu4Pro resulted in a reduction of NAA20 catalytic activity due to weak coupling with the NatB auxiliary subunit. In addition, unpublished data of the previous families were reported, outlining the core phenotype of the NAA20‐related disorder mostly characterized by cognitive impairment, microcephaly, ataxia, brain malformations, dysmorphism and variable occurrence of cardiac defect and epilepsy. Remarkably, our two patients featured epilepsy onset in adolescence suggesting this may be a part of syndrome evolution. Functional studies are needed to better understand the complexity of NAA20 variants pathogenesis as well as of other genes linked to N‐terminal acetylation.