bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The extent to which non-conditional housing programs improve housing and well-being outcomes: a systematic review
Authors: O’Donnell Renee , Hatzikiriakidis Kostas , Savaglio Melissa , Vicary Dave , Fleming Jennifer , Skouteris Helen
Published: January 2022

Purpose

To reduce rates of homelessness, recent efforts have been directed toward developing non-conditional supported housing programs that prioritize the delivery of housing support and individual services, without tenancy conditions (i.e. maintaining sobriety and adhering to mental health treatment). As promising as these programs are, findings generally show that while housing stability is improved, other individual outcomes remain largely unchanged. No review to date has synthesized the collective evidence base of non-conditional housing programs, rather the focus has been on specific programs of delivery (e.g. Housing First) or on specific population groups (e.g. those with mental illness). The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the extent to which non-conditional housing interventions improve housing and well-being outcomes for all persons.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic search of the literature was conducted for randomized controlled studies that evaluated the effectiveness of a non-conditional housing intervention in improving housing and health outcomes among any participant group.

Findings

A total of 31 studies were included in this review. Non-conditional supported housing programs were found to be most effective in improving housing stability as compared to health and well-being outcomes. Policymakers should consider this when developing non-conditional supported housing programs and ensure that housing and other health-related outcomes are also mutually supported.

Originality/value

This is the first review, to the authors’ knowledge, to synthesize the collective impact of all non-conditional supported housing programs. The current findings may inform the (re)design and implementation of supported housing models to prioritize the health and well-being of residents.
Exploring how authoritarian leadership affects commitment: the mediating roles of trust in the school principal and silence
Authors: Parlar Hanifi , Türkoğlu Muhammet Emin , Cansoy Ramazan
Published: January 2022

Purpose

This study aims to explore the relationship between authoritarian leadership and commitment and the mediating roles of silence and trust in school principals.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed a cross-sectional design to illustrate the relationships among authoritarian leadership, trust in the principal, silence and affective commitment using path analysis evidence provided by 409 K–12 teachers.

Findings

The findings revealed that authoritarian leadership indirectly affected teacher commitment through trust in the principal and acquiescent silence. Furthermore, trust in the principal played a partial mediating role between authoritarian leadership and defensive silence. Authoritarian leadership behaviours decreased teachers' affective commitment by decreasing trust in the principal and increasing organisational silence.

Originality/value

Although leadership and culture have been studied intensively in recent years, authoritarian leadership, which is more commonly seen in Eastern societies, has been less studied in school contexts in the Middle East and Asia. Thus, this study contributes to the literature by examining the factors that might influence affective commitment in schools in an urban setting: authoritarian leadership, silence and trust in school principals.
Proposing an organizational framework for the Sharīʿah Secretariat of Islamic banks in Bangladesh
Authors: Alam Md. Kausar , Ahmad Abu Umar Faruq , Muneeza Aishath , Tabash Mosab I. , Rahman Md Adnan
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Sharīʿah Secretariat plays a significant role in assisting Sharīʿah Supervisory Boards (SSBs) in their role in achieving Sharīʿah compliance in Islamic banks (IBs). The key objective of the study is to develop a organizational framework of the Sharīʿah Secretariat for the IBs in Bangladesh.

Design/methodology/approach

The study applied qualitative case study research. The data have been collected from 17 respondents through semi-structured interviews from IBs and professional experts in Bangladesh.

Findings

This study proposes a full-time Sharīʿah Secretariat and several departments for further enhancement of the Sharīʿah functions in IBs in Bangladesh. The framework proposed in this study covers the formation, functions, composition, qualification, reporting line, independence, remuneration and terms of appointment of the Sharīʿah Secretariat to set a uniform benchmark for all IBs in Bangladesh. It is anticipated that the outcomes of this research will assist to further strengthen the Sharīʿah governance of IBs in Bangladesh.

Research limitations/implications

This research contributed to the national and global regulatory authorities and IBs by proposing a Sharīʿah Secretariat framework for the smooth functioning of the IBs in Bangladesh. The framework proposed in this study covers the formation, functions, composition, qualification, reporting line, independence, remuneration and terms of appointment of Sharīʿah Secretariat.

Originality/value

This study proposed a framework which is considered the first organizational framework so far for the Sharīʿah Secretariat of IBs in Bangladesh. IBs can apply this proposed framework to form their Sharīʿah Secretariat structure.
Cultural values, entrepreneurial team structure and performance of SMEs
Authors: Bashokuh-E-Ajirloo Mohammad , Khodapanah Bahman , Alizadeh Mehdi , Ebrahimzadeh Mehdi
Published: January 2022

Purpose

The main objective of this study is to explain the relationship between members' cultural values on structure and performance of the entrepreneurial teams that located in Tehran.

Design/methodology/approach

Data used in this study are collected by a questionnaire distributed among managers and other executive members of SMEs located in Tehran. One hundred and thirty-nine participants completed the questionnaires, and their responses were analyzed using partial least squares technique. Measures showed good convergent and discriminant validity. Furthermore, Cronbach's alpha, as reliability indicator for all measures, is at the acceptable level.

Findings

Research finding shows that all hypothesis supported in Iran contex. Entrepreneurial team members' cultural values have positive and significant effect on the entrepreneurial team structure. Entrepreneurial team members' cultural values have significant effect on the entrepreneurial team performance and also, the structure of the entrepreneurial team has a positive and significant effect on the entrepreneurial team performance.

Originality/value

These studies mostly focused on technical dimensions of entrepreneurial teams and overlooked the cultural values of their members.
Intuitive global sourcing – a study of supplier selection decisions by apparel SMEs
Authors: Ellegaard Chris , Normann Ulla , Lidegaard Nina
Published: January 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to create knowledge on the intuitive global sourcing process applied by small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) managers.

Design/methodology/approach

This study reports on qualitative inquiries with experienced sourcing managers from 10 SMEs in the textile industry. The study follows a three-step semi-structured interviewing process, allowing us to gradually unveil the detailed nature of the intuitive supplier selection process.

Findings

Nine of the 10 SMEs rely on a highly intuitive supplier selections process, where one supplier at a time is gradually taken into the exchange while testing the supplier’s behavior. The process consists of an early heuristics sub-process, which gradually switches over to a more advanced intuiting behavioral pattern-matching process.

Practical implications

Most OM/SCM research has treated global sourcing and supplier selection as a highly rational, analytical and deliberate optimization problem. This study uncovers a completely different, and frequently successful, intuitive process, which could inspire managers in companies of all sizes, faced with high uncertainty about global supplier selection decisions.

Originality/value

Intuition has recently been adopted in the global sourcing literature. However, this study is the first to offer detailed insights into a predominantly intuitive global sourcing process, specifically as it is managed by SMEs.
Performance evaluation for tool wear prediction based on Bi-directional, Encoder–Decoder and Hybrid Long Short-Term Memory models
Authors: Kumar Satish , Kolekar Tushar , Kotecha Ketan , Patil Shruti , Bongale Arunkumar
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Excessive tool wear is responsible for damage or breakage of the tool, workpiece, or machining center. Thus, it is crucial to examine tool conditions during the machining process to improve its useful functional life and the surface quality of the final product. AI-based tool wear prediction techniques have proven to be effective in estimating the Remaining Useful Life (RUL) of the cutting tool. However, the model prediction needs improvement in terms of accuracy.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper represents a methodology of fusing a feature selection technique along with state-of-the-art deep learning models. The authors have used NASA milling data sets along with vibration signals for tool wear prediction and performance analysis in 15 different fault scenarios. Multiple steps are used for the feature selection and ranking. Different Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) approaches are used to improve the overall prediction accuracy of the model for tool wear prediction. LSTM models' performance is evaluated using R-square, Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) parameters.

Findings

The R-square accuracy of the hybrid model is consistently high and has low MAE, MAPE and RMSE values. The average R-square score values for LSTM, Bidirection, Encoder–Decoder and Hybrid LSTM are 80.43, 84.74, 94.20 and 97.85%, respectively, and corresponding average MAPE values are 23.46, 22.200, 9.5739 and 6.2124%. The hybrid model shows high accuracy as compared to the remaining LSTM models.

Originality/value

The low variance, Spearman Correlation Coefficient and Random Forest Regression methods are used to select the most significant feature vectors for training the miscellaneous LSTM model versions and highlight the best approach. The selected features pass to different LSTM models like Bidirectional, Encoder–Decoder and Hybrid LSTM for tool wear prediction. The Hybrid LSTM approach shows a significant improvement in tool wear prediction.
Experimental investigations on the wear behaviour of micro-EDM-fabricated textured tools during dry turning of Ti6Al4V
Authors: Sahu Tejanshu Sekhar , George Allan , Kuriachen Basil , Mathew Jose , Dhanish P.B.
Published: January 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to focus on analysing the wear characteristics of tungsten carbide tools on which various micro patterns are fabricated to study its effect on the machinability of Ti-6Al-4V at dry turning conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

Micro-patterns such as dimples, linear grooves and a novel combination of dimples and linear grooves were fabricated on rake faces of uncoated tools by micro-EDM process. Impact of these patterns on tool wear and chip morphology characteristics under dry machining conditions were analysed, and their performances were compared with the non-textured tool (NTT).

Findings

Encouraging results in terms of minimal tool wear and favourable chip morphology characteristics were observed in case of all the textured tools, which demonstrated better tribological characteristics in contrast to NTT. The average flank wear was reduced by 43.5, 32 and 24.7% in dimple textured tool (DTT), linear textured tool (LTT) and hybrid textured tool (HTT), respectively, as compared to NTT. The average chip curl diameters measured for NTT, DTT, LTT, and HTT were observed to be 6.60, 3.51, 4.0 and 4.31 mm, respectively.

Originality/value

The contribution of this work lies in fabricating innovative patterns using cost-effective micro-EDM process and analysing how the patterns, depending upon their dimensional area and wear debris accumulation characteristics, influence the machinability of Ti-6Al-4V in the absence of any lubrication mediums.
Identification of particular hydrodynamic parameters for a modular type 4 DOF underwater vehicle by means of CFD method
Authors: Yilmaz Serhat , Altıokka Yılmaz Gülten
Published: January 2022

Purpose

The development of robust control algorithms for the position, velocity and trajectory control of unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) depends on the accuracy of their mathematical models. Accuracy of the model is determined by precise estimation of the UUV hydrodynamic parameters. The purpose of this study is to determine the hydrodynamic forces and moments acting on an underwater vehicle with complex body geometry and moving at low speeds and to achieve the accurate coefficients associated with them.

Design/methodology/approach

A three-dimensional (3D) computer-aided design (CAD) model of UUV is designed with one-to-one dimensions. 3D fluid flow simulations are conducted using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software programme in the solution of Navier Stokes equations for laminar and turbulent flow analysis. The coefficients depending on the hydrodynamic forces and moments are determined by the external flow analysis using the CFD programme. The Flow Simulation k-ε turbulence model is used for the transition from laminar flow to turbulent flow. Hydrodynamic properties such as lift and drag coefficients and roll and yaw moment coefficients are calculated. The parameters are compared with the coefficient values found by experimental methods.

Findings

Although the modular type UUV has a complex body geometry, the comparative results of the experiments and simulations confirm that the defined model parameters are accurate and close to the actual experimental values. In the proposed k-ε method, the percentage error in the estimation of drag and lifting coefficients is decreased to 4.2% and 8.39%, respectively.

Practical implications

The model coefficients determined in this study can be used in high-level control simulations which leads to the development of robust real-time controllers for complex-shaped modular UUVs.

Originality/value

The Lucky Fin UUV with 4 degrees of freedom is a specific design and its CAD model is first extracted. Verification of simulation results by experiments is generally less referenced in studies. However, it provides more precise parameter identification of the model. Proposed study offers a simple and low-cost experimental measurement method for verification of the hydrodynamic parameters. The extracted model and coefficients are worthwhile references for the analysis of modular type UUVs.
Telephone farmers and an emerging ecosystem are unlocking the hidden middle of agricultural value chains in Kenya through innovation
Authors: van Dijk Meine Pieter , Limpens Gigi , Kariuki Julius Gatune , de Boer Diederik
Published: January 2022

Purpose

This article explores the potential of an emerging group of farmers in Kenya, namely the growing segment of urban-based medium-size farmers, often called “telephone farmers”. To what extent do they benefit from an emerging ecosystem to support them in operating their farms, and what does that mean for the Hidden middle of agricultural value chains, the actors between the farmers and consumers? Unlocking the potential production of telephone farmers will require more services from collectors, traders, transport firms, the storage facilities, wholesalers and processing units and retailers. Ultimately, optimized telephone farm production benefits the business of Hidden middle value chain actors, increases incomes and jobs and improves food security.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a survey and in-depth interviews a profile of the telephone farmers is given and their role as innovators is analyzed. The Latia Resource Centre (LRC) provides assistance to medium-size farmers, like the telephone farmers, helping them to prepare business plans and use modern technology and contributing to an emerging ecosystem providing support to all farmers.

Findings

The article analyzes the medium-size telephone farmers. It documents the contributions of this new agricultural actor to developing value chains and a dynamic ecosystem. The paper profiles the telephone farmers first and then identifies what they need and the support they receive. The emerging innovative ecosystem impacts agricultural productivity and production and hence the development of value chains. Small farmers gain access to opportunities offered by telephone farmers, working for them as outgrower or farm worker.

Research limitations/implications

The authors used a small sample of 51 farmers and covered only a two-year period.

Social implications

Small farmers are being helped through the emerging eco-system and farm labor acquire skills, which they can also you on another or their own farm.

Originality/value

Based on the analysis an even more effective ecosystem is suggested and policy recommendations are formulated before the conclusion is drawn that these medium-size farmers contribute to innovation diffusion, inclusive value chain development and food security and are becoming part of this expanding, innovative ecosystem. Following the debate on food security the results suggest to pay more attention to the development of telephone farmers given their role in developing agricultural value chains and innovative ecosystems.
Explaining prosecution outcomes for cryptocurrency-based financial crimes
Authors: Trozze Arianna , Davies Toby , Kleinberg Bennett
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Cryptocurrencies have been used to commit various offences, but enforcement efforts remain underdeveloped relative to the value of these crimes. This paper aims to examine factors associated with outcomes of US-based cryptocurrency financial crime prosecutions.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors studied the 37 resolved cryptocurrency-based financial crime cases in the USA to date, exploring the impact of offence, defendant and evidence characteristics on the mode of disposition and penalties. The authors used bivariate analyses and logistic regression models to determine relationships among these variables.

Findings

The presence of individual defendants only (rather than a corporate defendant or combination thereof) and the use of only a cryptocurrency other than Bitcoin in committing a crime each made a case less likely to be resolved by dismissal, trial or summary or default judgement.

Originality/value

This paper is the first to examine variables contributing to financial crime prosecution outcomes and has implications for prosecutorial decision-making, resource allocation and the prevention and detection of financial offences involving cryptocurrencies.
Asset recovery practices in combating money laundering: evidence from FATF mutual evaluation report of FATF member countries of Asia pacific region
Authors: Zolkaflil Salwa , Syed Mustapha Nazri Sharifah Nazatul Faiza , Omar Normah
Published: January 2022

Purpose

This study aims to understand the member countries’ current asset recovery mechanism based on two elements, namely, confiscation policy and asset recovery management framework.

Design/methodology/approach

Content analysis was performed on the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Mutual Evaluation Report (MER) of eight countries.

Findings

The result showed that only a few countries established a centralised asset recovery centre or special task force to manage recovered assets.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited to information mentioned in the FATF MER.

Practical implications

This study highlights the need to have a centralised asset recovery management centre as an initiative to improve the outcome of money laundering investigations. The study findings will benefit regulators to understand further the practical challenges of the asset recovery mechanism for future improvement.

Originality/value

FATF recommends that each country establish a centralised asset recovery centre and work closely with the investigating officers and prosecutors in deciding on assets confiscation. However, the implementation is contingent on their local environment and resources at the member countries’ discretion. Therefore, this study aimed to understand the member countries’ current asset recovery mechanism based on two elements, namely confiscation policy and asset recovery management framework.
Managing routines and keeping on track: technology, human cognition and performativity in SMEs
Authors: Costa Júnior Júlio César da , Nascimento Leandro da Silva , Jerônimo Taciana de Barros , Granja Brunna Carvalho Almeida
Published: January 2022

Purpose

Routine dynamics provide a robust theoretical framework to explore a wide range of organizational phenomena. However, the study of routines and the effect of technology on its performativity in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) still lack attention by researchers. This paper aims to analyze how the balance between process technology and human cognition affects routines' performativity in SMEs.

Design/methodology/approach

It was conducted a multicase study composed of Brazilian SMEs in the bakery industry. Data collection took place through interviews with managers and employees, observation of operational processes and document analysis. Thematic content analysis was adopted for categorization and data analysis.

Findings

The authors’ findings allow inferring there is no primacy of a more automated or artisanal production process to achieve competitiveness, which breaks the paradigm of the superior performance of automated production over the artisanal process that haunts SMEs. Though technology increases production efficiency, the artisanal approach can be valuable at promoting a company by commercially using this know-how to explore other business models appreciated by the public.

Practical implications

The authors’ proposals became relevant in a practical perspective once it works as a parameter for SME managers' decision-making about new investments in production resources and to foster public policies and other actions developed by support services for small businesses.

Originality/value

This study expands the frontiers in routines literature on SMEs, which lacks deepening. From this, SME managers can intensify actions to optimize process routines performativity through technologies or human cognition to keep the routines on track.
Self-harm and suicidal content online, harmful or helpful? A systematic review of the recent evidence
Authors: Brennan Cathy , Saraiva Sonia , Mitchell Elizabeth , Melia Richard , Campbell Lydia , King Natalie , House Allan
Published: January 2022

Purpose

There are calls for greater regulation of online content related to self-harm and suicide, particularly that which is user-generated. However, the online space is a source of support and advice, including an important sharing of experiences. This study aims to explore what it is about such online content, and how people interact with it, that may confer harm or offer benefit.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors undertook a systematic review of the published evidence, using customised searches up to February 2021 in seven databases. The authors included empirical research on the internet or online use and self-harm or suicide content that had been indexed since 2015. The authors undertook a theoretically driven narrative synthesis.

Findings

From 4,493 unique records, 87 met our inclusion criteria. The literature is rapidly expanding and not all the evidence is high quality, with very few longitudinal or intervention studies so little evidence to understand possible causal links. Very little content online is classifiable as explicitly harmful or definitively helpful, with responses varying by the individual and immediate context. The authors present a framework that seeks to represent the interplay in online use between the person, the medium, the content and the outcome.

Originality/value

This review highlights that content should not be considered separately to the person accessing it, so online safety means thinking about all users. Blanket removal or unthinking regulation may be more harmful than helpful. A focus on safe browsing is important and tools that limit time and diversify content would support this.
Impact assessment of country risk on logistics performance using a Bayesian Belief Network model
Authors: Qazi Abroon , Simsekler Mecit Can Emre , Formaneck Steven
Published: January 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to assess the impact of different drivers of country risk, including business environment, corruption, economic, environmental, financial, health and safety and political risks, on the country-level logistics performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This study utilizes three datasets published by reputed international organizations, including the World Bank Group, AM Best and Global Risk Profile, to explore interactions among country risk drivers and the Logistics Performance Index (LPI) in a network setting. The LPI, published by the World Bank Group, is a composite measure of the country-level logistics performance. Using the three datasets, a Bayesian Belief Network (BBN) model is developed to investigate the relative importance of country risk drivers that influence logistics performance.

Findings

The results indicate a moderate to a strong correlation among individual risks and between individual risks and the LPI score. The financial risk significantly varies relative to the extreme states of the LPI score, whereas corruption risk and political risk are the most critical factors influencing the LPI score relative to their resilience and vulnerability potential, respectively.

Originality/value

This study has made two unique contributions to the literature on logistics performance assessment. First, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to establish associations between country risk drivers and country-level logistics performance in a probabilistic network setting. Second, a new BBN-based process has been proposed for logistics performance assessment and operationalized to help researchers and practitioners establish the relative importance of risk drivers influencing logistics performance. The key feature of the proposed process is adapting the BBN methodology to logistics performance assessment through the lens of risk analysis.
Suppression of glycerol biosynthesis‐related genes decreases the effect of rapid cold hardening inHelicoverpa assulta
Authors: Cha Wook Hyun , Lee Dae‐Weon
Published: January 2022

Insects acquire cold hardiness for survival during the winter by increasing cryoprotectants concentration such as glycerol and trehalose after induction of rapid cold hardening (RCH). The oriental tobacco budworm,Helicoverpa assulta, is a freeze‐tolerant species which increases glycerol level in the hemolymph after RCH induction. In this study, we identified two glycerol biosynthesis‐related genes, glycerol‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (Has‐GPDH) and glycerol kinase (Has‐GK) in the fat body ofH. assultalarvae. Has‐GPDH harbored a conserved NAD+‐dependent glycerol‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase signature sequence, and Has‐GK harbored two conserved FGGY carbohydrate kinase signature sequences. Phylogenetic analysis revealed both Has‐GPDH and Has‐GK were relatively close to those ofHelicoverpa armigera. The expression levels of Has‐GPDH and Has‐GK were increased after RCH induction at 4°C for 6 h. After suppression of Has‐GPDH and Has‐GK by RNA interference, the survival rate ofH. assultaat −10°C was much lower than the control after RCH induction. These results suggest that glycerol biosynthesized by Has‐GPDH and Has‐GK plays a crucial role in RCH‐induced cold tolerance inH. assulta.
Initiation and Development of the Late Cenozoic Uplift of Daluo Mountains, Northeastern Margin of the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: KOU Linlin , DONG Xiaopeng , LI Zhenhong , CUI Jiawei , MA Zhaoying , LI Hailong
Published: January 2022

Daluo Mountains lie at front of the arcuate tectonic belt at the northeastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau, and are the landform boundary zone between the active Tibetan Plateau and the stable North China Craton. Studying of the late Cenozoic uplift evolution of Daluo Mountains is important for understanding the expansion mechanism of the northeastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau and its influence on the western North China Craton. In this study, the late Cenozoic uplift of Daluo Mountains is constructed from the development of the late Cenozoic alluvial fan around Daluo Mountains. The entire sedimentary sequence and framework of the fan was revealed by the newly obtained drilling core data. The cosmogenic nuclide, optically stimulated luminescence, and detrital zircon U‐Pb dating results provide new evidences for discussion about the initial timing of the late Cenozoic uplift of Daluo Mountains and the key stages of uplift during the Pleistocene. The late Cenozoic alluvial fan at front of Daluo Mountains overlies a set of fluvial‐facies strata; therefore, development of the alluvial‐fan marks the start of late Cenozoic uplift of Daluo Mountains. The timing of this event can be constrained to ∼4.64 Ma. Two extensive gravel layers (dated to ca. 0.76–0.6 Ma and ∼0.05 Ma) developed during the Pleistocene, indicating two episodes of considerable uplift. This study provides a new time scale for the uplift and expansion of the arcuate tectonic belt at the northeastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau.
Measurements of Sulfur Isotope Composition on Ultrasmall (80 Nanomole) Sulfide and Sulfate Samples by a Modified EA‐IRMS
Authors: WU Xiaopei , FAN Changfu , HU Bin , GAO Jianfei , LI Yanhe
Published: January 2022

The traditional method for sulfur isotope measurement using EA‐IRMS commonly requires sulfur content greater than 2 μmol. Such a large sample size limits its application to low‐S materials, the size mainly being due to ineffective utilization of sample gas, almost 99.7% of which is discarded with carrier gas through the split port of the continuous‐flow interface. A modified EA‐IRMS system with a gas chromatographic (GC) column and a custom‐built cryogenic concentration device is used in this study. We measured six reference materials to test the performance of this method. The results were consistent with those obtained through traditional EA‐IRMS. Precisions ranging from ±0.24‰ to ±0.76‰ (1σ) can be obtained with samples equivalent to ∼80 nmol sulfur, which were similar to results obtained from an alternative method using an absorption column. Our improved method is a powerful tool for sulfur isotope measurement in ultrasmall sulfide and sulfate samples, which can be further applied to carbon, nitrogen and oxygen isotope analyses of samples at about 100 nmol level.
Establishment, persistence and the importance of longitudinal monitoring in multi‐source reintroductions
Authors: Brockett B. , Banks S. , Neaves L. E. , Gordon I. J. , Pierson J. C. , Manning A. D.
Published: January 2022

Incorporating genetic data into conservation programmes improves management outcomes, but the impact of different sample grouping methods on genetic diversity analyses is poorly understood. To this end, the multi‐source reintroduction of the eastern bettong Bettongia gaimardi was used as a long‐term case study to investigate how sampling regimes may affect common genetic metrics and hence management decisions. The dataset comprised 5307 SNPs sequenced across 263 individuals. Samples included 45 founders from five genetically distinct Tasmanian source regions, and 218 of their descendants captured during annual monitoring at Mulligan’s Flat Woodland Sanctuary (121 samples across eight generations) and Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve (97 samples across nine generations). The most management‐informative sampling regime was found to be generational cohorts, providing detailed long‐term trends in genetic diversity. When these generation‐specific trends were not investigated, recent changes in population genetics were masked, and it became apparent that management recommendations would be less appropriate. The results also illuminated the importance of considering establishment and persistence as separate phases of a multi‐source reintroduction. The establishment phase (useful for informing early adaptive management) should consist of no less than two generations and continue until admixture is achieved (admixture defined here as >80% of individuals possessing >60% of source genotypes, with no one source composing >70% of >20% individuals’ genotype) is achieved. This ensures that the persistence phase analyses of population trends remain minimally biased. Based on this case study, we recommend that emphasis be given to the value of generationally specific analyses, and that conservation programmes collect DNA samples throughout the establishment and persistence phases and avoid collecting genetic samples only when the analysis is imminent. We also recommend that population genetic analyses for multi‐source reintroductions consider whether admixture has been achieved when calculating descriptive genetic metrics.
Inflow cannula position as risk factor for stroke in patients with HeartMate 3 left ventricular assist devices
Authors: Schlöglhofer Thomas , Aigner Philipp , Migas Marcel , Beitzke Dietrich , Dimitrov Kamen , Wittmann Franziska , Riebandt Julia , Granegger Marcus , Wiedemann Dominik , Laufer Günther , Moscato Francesco , Schima Heinrich , Zimpfer Daniel
Published: January 2022

Background

A relation between the left ventricular assist device inflow cannula (IC) malposition and pump thrombus has been reported. This study aimed to investigate if the pump position, derived from chest X‐rays in HeartMate 3 (HM3) patients, correlates with neurological dysfunction (ND), ischemic stroke (IS), hemorrhagic stroke (HS) and survival.

Methods

This analysis was performed on routinely acquired X‐rays of 42 patients implanted with a HM3 between 2014 and 2017. Device position was quantified in patients with and without ND from frontal and lateral X‐rays characterizing the IC and pump in relation to spine, diaphragm or horizontal line. The primary end‐point was freedom from stroke and survival one‐year after HM3 implantation stratified by pump position.

Results

The analysis of X‐rays, 33.5 (41.0) days postoperative, revealed a significant smaller IC angle of HM3 patients with ND versus no ND (0.1° ± 14.0° vs. 12.9° ± 10.1°, p = 0.005). Additionally, the IC angle in the frontal view, IS: 4.1 (20.9)° versus no IS: 13.8 (7.5)°, p = 0.004 was significantly smaller for HM3 patients with IS. Using receiver operating characteristics derived cut‐off, IC angle <10° provided 75% sensitivity and 100% specificity (C‐statistic = 0.85) for predicting IS. Stratified by IC angle, freedom from IS at 12 months was 100% (>10°) and 60% (<10°) respectively (p = 0.002). No significant differences were found in any end‐point between patients with and without HS. One‐year survival was significantly higher in patients with IC angle >10° versus <10° (100% vs. 71.8%, p = 0.012).

Conclusions

IC malposition derived from standard chest X‐rays serves as a risk factor for ND, IS and worse survival in HM3 patients.
Inhibiting pyruvate kinase muscle isoform 2 regresses group 2 pulmonary hypertension induced by supra‐coronary aortic banding
Authors: Xiong Ping Yu , Motamed Mehras , Chen Kuang‐Hueih , Dasgupta Asish , Potus François , Tian Lian , Martin Ashley , Mewburn Jeffrey , Jones Oliver , Thébaud Arthur , Archer Stephen L.
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Group 2 pulmonary hypertension (PH) has no approved PH‐targeted therapy. Metabolic remodelling, specifically a biventricular increase in pyruvate kinase muscle (PKM) isozyme 2 to 1 ratio, occurs in rats with group 2 PH induced by supra‐coronary aortic banding (SAB). We hypothesize that increased PKM2/PKM1 is maladaptive and inhibiting PKM2 would improve right ventricular (RV) function.

Methods

Male, Sprague‐Dawley SAB rats were confirmed to have PH by echocardiography and then randomized to treatment with a PKM2 inhibitor (intraperitoneal shikonin, 2 mg/kg/day) versus 5% DMSO (n = 5/group) or small interfering RNA‐targeting PKM2 (siPKM2) versus siRNA controls (n = 7/group) by airway nebulization.

Results

Shikonin‐treated SAB rats had milder PH (PAAT 32.1 ± 1.3 vs 22.1 ± 1.2 ms, P = .0009) and lower RV systolic pressure (RVSP) (31.5 ± 0.9 vs 55.7 ± 1.9 mm Hg, P < .0001) versus DMSO‐SAB rats. siPKM2 nebulization reduced PKM2 expression in the RV, increased PAAT (31.7 ± 0.7 vs 28.0 ± 1.3 ms, P = .025), lowered RVSP (30.6 ± 2.6 vs 42.0 ± 4.0 mm Hg, P = .032) and reduced diastolic RVFW thickness (0.69 ± 0.04 vs 0.85 ± 0.06 mm, P = .046). Both shikonin and siPKM2 regressed PH‐induced medial hypertrophy of small pulmonary arteries.

Conclusion

Increases in PKM2/PKM1 in the RV contribute to RV dysfunction in group 2 PH. Chemical or molecular inhibition of PKM2 restores the normal PKM2/PKM1 ratio, reduces PH, RVSP and RVH and regresses adverse PA remodelling. PKM2 merits consideration as a therapeutic cardiac target for group 2 PH.
Protein O‐mannosyltransferase Rv1002c contributes to low cell permeability, biofilm formation in vitro, and mycobacterial survival in mice
Authors: Yang Shufeng , Sui Shaoguang , Qin Yuanhua , Chen Haibo , Sha Shanshan , Liu Xin , Deng Guoying , Ma Yufang
Published: January 2022

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis) Rv1002c encodes the protein O‐mannosyltransferase (PMT), which catalyzes the transfer of mannose to serine or threonine residues of proteins. We explored the function of PMT in vitro and in vivo. Rv1002c protein was heterogeneously overexpressed in nonpathogenic Mycobacterium smegmatis (named as MS_Rv1002c). A series of trials including mass spectrometry, transmission electron microscope, biofilm formation and antibiotics susceptibility were performed to explore the function of PMT on bacterial survival in vitro. Mouse experiments were carried out to evaluate the virulence of PMT in vivo. PMT decreased the cell envelope permeability and promoted microbial biofilm formation. PMT enhanced the mycobacterial survival in vivo and inhibited the release of pro‐inflammatory cytokines in serum. The function might be associated with an increased abundance of some mannoproteins in culture filtrate (CF). PMT is likely to be involved in mycobacterial survival both in vivo and in vitro due to increasing the mannoproteins abundance in CF.
Long‐term prognosis of patients with metabolic (dysfunction)‐associated fatty liver disease by non‐invasive methods
Authors: Decraecker Marie , Dutartre Dan , Hiriart Jean‐Baptiste , Irles‐Depé Marie , Chermak Faiza , Foucher Juliette , de Lédinghen Victor
Published: January 2022

Background

Non‐invasive assessment of fibrosis is predictive of the prognosis of non‐alcoholic and alcoholic fatty liver disease but this has not been demonstrated in metabolic (dysfunction)‐associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD).

Aims

We assessed the prognosis of non‐invasive methods in patients with MAFLD.

Methods

All consecutive patients with MAFLD, with liver stiffness measurements, FIB‐4 (Fibrosis‐4), and LIVERFASt were included in this cohort study. The primary endpoint was analysed by the Kaplan‐Meier method and secondary endpoints were estimated by Gray test or logistic regression. Factors independently associated with overall mortality and morbidity were identified by a multivariate Cox model. The prognostic performance of non‐invasive methods for prediction of mortality was evaluated by Harrell’s C‐index and for morbidity by area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC).

Results

A total of 1239 patients with MAFLD were analysed (median age 56 years, male 56.5%, median body mass index 31 kg/m2 and obesity 59%). The median follow‐up was 62 months [42‐91 months] and 73 (5.8%) subjects died. Baseline results of non‐invasive methods were correlated with overall and liver‐related mortalities (P < 0.001), and with all‐cause and liver‐related outcomes (P < 0.001). A predictive model (composed of clinical parameters and liver stiffness measurement, FIB‐4 or LIVERFASt) was an excellent predictor of overall and liver‐related mortalities (C‐index 0.8‐0.9), and a good predictor of overall and liver‐related morbidities (AUC 0.72‐0.74).

Conclusion

Baseline liver stiffness measurement, FIB‐4 and LIVERFASt can predict global and liver‐related mortality and morbidity in patients with MAFLD and could be prognosis endpoints in clinical trials.
Cognition in older adults with bipolar disorder: An ISBD task force systematic review and meta‐analysis based on a comprehensive neuropsychological assessment
Authors: Montejo Laura , Torrent Carla , Jiménez Esther , Martínez‐Arán Anabel , Blumberg Hilary P. , Burdick Katherine E. , Chen Peijun , Dols Annemieke , Eyler Lisa T. , Forester Brent P. , Gatchel Jennifer R. , Gildengers Ariel , Kessing Lars V. , Miskowiak Kamilla W. , Olagunju Andrew T. , Patrick Regan E. , Schouws Sigfried , Radua Joaquim , Bonnín Caterina del M. , Vieta Eduard ,   International Society for Bipolar Disorders (ISBD) Older Adults with Bipolar Disorder (OABD) Task Force
Published: January 2022

Objectives

We aim to characterize the cognitive performance in euthymic older adults with bipolar disorder (OABD) through a comprehensive neuropsychological assessment to obtain a detailed neuropsychological profile.

Methods

We conducted a systematic search in MEDLINE/Pubmed, Cochrane, and PsycInfo databases. Original studies assessing cognitive function in OABD (age ≥50 years ) containing, at a minimum, the domains of attention/processing speed, memory, and executive functions were included. A random‐effects meta‐analysis was conducted to summarize differences between patients and matched controls in each cognitive domain. We also conducted meta‐regressions to estimate the impact of clinical and socio‐demographic variables on these differences.

Results

Eight articles, providing data for 328 euthymic OABD patients and 302 healthy controls, were included in the meta‐analysis. OABD showed worse performance in comparison with healthy controls, with large significant effect sizes (Hedge's g from −0.77 to −0.89; p < 0.001) in verbal learning and verbal and visual delayed memory. They also displayed statistically significant deficits, with moderate effect size, in processing speed, working memory, immediate memory, cognitive flexibility, verbal fluency, psychomotor function, executive functions, attention, inhibition, and recognition (Hedge's g from −0.52 to −0.76; p < 0.001), but not in language and visuoconstruction domains. None of the examined variables were associated with these deficits.

Conclusions

Cognitive dysfunction is present in OABD, with important deficits in almost all cognitive domains, especially in the memory domain. Our results highlight the importance of including a routine complete neuropsychological assessment in OABD and also considering therapeutic strategies in OABD.
Commentary: Proactive practices to support youth coping with climate change – a commentary on Martin et al. (2021)
Authors: Flanagan Constance
Published: January 2022

Based on the scoping review of literature on youths' anxieties and worries associated with their understanding of climate change, I suggest three practices for supporting youth coping: emphasizing what they can do through proactive environmental action; emphasizing group rather than individual efforts – working in peer teams and networking with adults and organizations dedicated to environmental action and to combatting climate change; and focusing on human impact (negative and positive) in the local place where they reside and ways they can observe and monitor that impact.
Complement C1q binding protein regulates T cells’ mitochondrial fitness to affect their survival, proliferation, and anti–tumor immune function
Authors: Tian Hui , Wang Gang , Wang Qiping , Zhang Baofu , Jiang Guan , Li Huizhong , Chai Dafei , Fang Lin , Wang Meng , Zheng Junnian
Published: January 2022

T cells survival, proliferation, and anti–tumor response are closely linked to their mitochondrial health. Complement C1q binding protein (C1QBP) promotes mitochondrial fitness through regulation of mitochondrial metabolism and morphology. However, whether C1QBP regulates T cell survival, proliferation, and anti–tumor immune function remains unclear. Our data demonstrated that C1QBP knockdown induced the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential to impair T cell mitochondrial fitness. At the same time, C1QBP insufficiency reduced the recruitment of the anti–apoptotic proteins, including Bcl‐2 and Bcl‐XL, and repressed caspase‐3 activation and poly (ADP‐ribose) polymerase cleavage, which consequently accelerated the T cell apoptotic process. In contrast, C1QBP knockdown rendered T cells with relatively weaker proliferation due to the inhibition of AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. To investigate the exact role of C1QBP in anti–tumor response, C1QBP+/− and C1QBP+/+ mice were given a subcutaneous injection of murine MC38 cells. We found that C1QBP deficiency attenuated T cell tumor infiltration and aggravated tumor‐infiltrating T lymphocytes (TIL) exhaustion. Moreover, we further clarified the potential function of C1QBP in chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell immunotherapy. Our data showed that C1QBP+/− CAR T cells exhibited relatively weaker anti–tumor response than the corresponding C1QBP+/+ CAR T cells. Given that C1QBP knockdown impairs T cells’ anti–apoptotic capacity, proliferation as well as anti–tumor immune function, development of the strategy for potentiation of T cells’ mitochondrial fitness through C1QBP could potentially optimize the efficacy of the related immunotherapy.
Research on the child healthcare system in China from the perspective of equal health benefits: Beijing as the case study
Authors: Zhuang Qi , Peng Yunzhi , Zhou Jieyu , Coyte Peter
Published: January 2022

Background

With government's proposal of the Healthy China Strategy, universal health has become the focus of increasing attention in China. As a special group, children's health is the basis and start of the national health. The construction of children's healthcare system should be given the priority. This study applied the concept of health equal benefits and conducted a systematic and in‐depth theoretical and empirical research on the children's healthcare system in Beijing, aiming at proposing relevant countermeasures and suggestions such as constructing the path of children's health care system in China.

Methods

This study adopted the way of questionnaire on children's basic information, health status, health service demand, insured situation and system satisfaction and then analysed the children's health, healthcare, satisfaction influence factors and their healthcare needs based on a survey in Beijing China. Methods such as descriptive statistics, analysis of variance and logistic regression are adopted to analyse the correlation between factors affecting children's health.

Results

The findings show that overall health of the children in Beijing was better. However, there are still problems such as insufficient resource coverage and incorrect cognition in some groups. Their mental health and support need to be put emphasis on. The popularization of medical insurance policies for urban and rural residents in Beijing needs to be further improved. The burden of seeing a doctor is slightly lower than before, and the contribution to protecting children's health is not strong enough.

Conclusions

Through the survey of children in Beijing, it can be seen that there are still some problems existing in the healthcare system of children in China from the perspective of equal benefit. This study draws policy attention to the issues of financing, service contents, targets, service level and the degree of social recognition.