bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cytomegalovirus seropositivity relates inversely to cancer incidences across races and ethnicities: implications for oncoprevention
Authors: Janković Marko , Milićević Ognjen , Todorović-Balint Milena , Đunić Irena , Mihaljević Biljana , Jovanović Tanja , Knežević Aleksandra
Published: August 2023

Background

Race and ethnic disparities in cancer incidence rates and the prevalence ofcytomegalovirus(CMV) are known to exist in the United States (U.S.) but also across broad geographic expanses. CMV prevalence seems to inversely contrast tumor incidence rates both in ethnic groups and globally. Is there a biological link between cancer and CMV infection? Most recent clinical results seem to certify it.

Methods

Global cancer data were retrieved from the World Health Organization (WHO) database. Incidence of cancer and CMV seroprevalence (73 countries) were subjected to Spearman’s correlation test. The Bayesian framework was adopted for CMV seropositivity variables. Relevant data for the U.S. were extracted from publications based on the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) registries and the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES), 1988-2004.

Results

An inversely directed coupling between cancer and CMV seropositivity across diverse ecologies and cultural domains suggest a global oncoprotective effect of the CMV (Spearman’sρ= -0.732;p<0.001). Rates of all cancers combined and CMV seropositivity show an opposite association (p<0.001) among the races and foremost U.S. ethnic groups.

Conclusion

The racial/ethnic incidence of cancers and CMV seropositivity are inversely proportional both in the U.S. and globally. This would support a view that CMV is a potential driver against tumorigenesis. An absence of CMV infection abrogates protection against malignant clones afforded to an infected host. Abating CMV seroprevalence may relate causally to the buildup of malignancies in U.S. and the West world countries with thriving hygiene and healthcare systems.

Importance

Increasing evidence substantiates the potential of cytomegalovirus (CMV) to counteract tumors, particularly in the field of anti-cancer vaccinology, leading to extended periods of survival. This research unveils a robust and inverse correlation between the prevalence of CMV and the occurrence of cancer both within the United States and on a global scale (73 countries), hinting at the ability of CMV to inhibit tumor development. Furthermore, this phenomenon remains consistent across various racial and ethnic groups within the United States and applies to a diverse range of cancer types. A notable pattern emerges: the higher the prevalence of the viral infection, the lower the incidence of tumors within a given country. These findings support existing insights from clinical and experimental investigations, underscoring the notion that this effect becomes apparent at the level of entire nations and populations worldwide.
Polygenic scores of subcortical brain volumes as possible modulators of treatment response in depression
Authors: Oliva Vincenzo , Martone Alfonso , Fanelli Giuseppe , Domschke Katharina , Minelli Alessandra , Gennarelli Massimo , Martini Paolo , Bortolomasi Marco , Maron Eduard , Squassina Alessio , Pisanu Claudia , Kasper Siegfried , Zohar Joseph , Souery Daniel , Montgomery Stuart , Albani Diego , Forloni Gianluigi , Ferentinos Panagiotis , Rujescu Dan , Mendlewicz Julien , De Ronchi Diana , Baune Bernhard T ,   European College of Neuropsychopharmacology (ECNP) Pharmacogenomics & Transcriptomics Network, Serretti Alessandro , Fabbri Chiara
Published: August 2023

A significant proportion of patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) do not experience remission after one or more pharmacological treatments. Research has explored brain structural measures, particularly the hippocampus, as potential predictors of treatment response in MDD, as well as genetic factors.

This study investigated the association of polygenic scores (PGSs) for seven subcortical brain volumes (including the hippocampus, nucleus accumbens, amygdala, and caudate nucleus) with treatment non-response and non-remission in MDD.

Patients with MDD were recruited in the context of five clinical studies, including a total of 3,637 individuals. PGSs were estimated using a Bayesian framework and continuous shrinkage priors (PRS-CS-auto) after standard genotype quality control and imputation. Logistic regressions were performed between PGSs and non-response or non-remission in each sample, adjusting for age, sex, baseline symptom severity, recruitment sites, and population stratification. Results were meta-analysed across samples, using a random-effect model.

Caudate volume PGS was nominally associated with non-remission (OR=1.09, 95% CI=1.01–1.19, p=0.036). Leave-one-out sensitivity analyses suggested a possible association with the amygdala and thalamus PGSs. However, no association was significant after multiple testing correction.

These results, although preliminary, suggest a possible link between caudate volume PGS and lack of symptom remission. Methodological improvements in PGSs estimation and statistical power may enhance their predictive performance and provide a contribution to precision psychiatry.
Pattern of Cutaneous Neoplasms and Associated Factors at a Tertiary Teaching Hospital Pathology Center in Ethiopia: An Eight-Year Histopathological Review
Authors: Temam Fuad , Yahya Samia Metena , Berhane Bereket , Daba Frehiwot , Teka Amanuel Yeneneh , Yesuf Indris Ahmed , Leulseged Tigist Workneh
Published: August 2023

Background

Cancer is the leading cause of death globally and is on the rise in Africa. Cutaneous neoplasms are becoming increasingly common worldwide. Understanding the patterns of this disease is essential for developing data-driven preventive, screening, and treatment services. However, there are limited studies in Ethiopia so far. Therefore, the study aimed to assess the pattern and associated factors of cutaneous neoplasm among patients with histopathologically confirmed biopsy results at a tertiary teaching hospital in Ethiopia from March, 2014 to October, 2022.

Methods

A retrospective record review study was conducted among 1006 patients with histopathologically confirmed cutaneous neoplasms from the biopsies that were assessed at St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College. Data was summarized using frequencies (percentages), median (interquartile range), and graphs. To identify significant factors associated with malignant cutaneous neoplasm, a multivariable binary logistic regression model was fitted, where Adjusted Odds ratio (AOR), 95% CIs for AOR, and p-values were used for interpretation of results.

Result

From the 1006 cases, 265 (26.3%, 95%CI=23.5%-29.3%) were malignant, of which sarcoma (26.0%) and squamous cell carcinoma (25.7%) were the most frequent and found to be prevalent in younger (19-29 years) and older (≥60 years) patients, respectively. The trunk was the commonest site (54.2%) for all the malignancies, especially sarcoma (80.4%). Age was found to be a significant exposure that is associated with the development of malignant cutaneous neoplasm for those ≥30 years as compared with those ≤18 years, with the odds increasing with age (AOR=2.66, 95% CI=1.10,6.45 for 30-39 years, AOR=4.98, 95% CI= 2.01,12.36 for 40-49 years, AOR=5.33, 95% CI=2.15,13.22 for 50-59 years and AOR= 6.62, 95% CI=2.79,15.66 for ≥60).

Conclusion

The prevalence of malignant cutaneous neoplasm is higher than previously reported in the country and the malignancy pattern and distribution are different from what is known so far. This could signal a shift in disease epidemiology, and the findings should be factored into clinical decision making and program design for disease prevention, screening, and treatment. It also calls for further prospective research to learn more about the condition in the context of additional relevant personal and clinical characteristics.
Rapidin-situdiversification rates in Rhamnaceae explain the parallel evolution of high diversity in temperate biomes from global to local scales
Authors: Tian Qin , Stull Gregory W. , Kellermann Jürgen , Medan Diego , Nge Francis J. , Liu Shuiyin , Kates Heather R. , Soltis Douglas E. , Soltis Pamela S. , Guralnick Robert P. , Folk Ryan A. , Onstein Renske E. , Yi Ting-Shuang
Published: August 2023

The macroevolutionary processes that have shaped biodiversity across the temperate realm remain poorly understood and may have resulted from evolutionary dynamics related to diversification rates, dispersal rates, and colonization times, closely coupled with Cenozoic climate change.

We integrated phylogenomic, environmental ordination, and macroevolutionary analyses for the cosmopolitan angiosperm family Rhamnaceae to disentangle the evolutionary processes that have contributed to high species diversity within and across temperate biomes.

Our results show independent colonization of environmentally similar but geographically separated temperate regions mainly during the Oligocene, consistent with the global expansion of temperate biomes. High global, regional, and local temperate diversity was the result of highin-situdiversification rates, rather than high immigration rates or accumulation time, except for Southern China, which was colonized much earlier than other regions. The relatively common lineage dispersals out of temperate hotspots highlights strong source-sink dynamics across the cosmopolitan distribution of Rhamnaceae.

The proliferation of temperate environments since the Oligocene may have provided the ecological opportunity for rapidin-situdiversification of Rhamnaceae across the temperate realm. Our study illustrates the importance of highin-situdiversification rates for the establishment of modern temperate biomes and biodiversity hotspots across spatial scales.
Functional subtypes of rodent melanopsin ganglion cells switch roles between night and day illumination
Authors: Berry Michael H. , Leffler Joseph , Allen Charles N. , Sivyer Benjamin
Published: August 2023

Intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs), contain the photopigment melanopsin, and influence both image and non-image forming behaviors. Despite being categorized into multiple types (M1-M6), physiological variability within these types suggests our current understanding of ipRGCs is incomplete. We used multi-electrode array (MEA) recordings and unbiased cluster analysis under synaptic blockade to identify 8 functional clusters of ipRGCs, each with distinct photosensitivity and response timing. We used Cre mice to drive the expression of channelrhodopsin in SON-ipRGCs, enabling the localization of distinct ipRGCs in the dorsal retina. Additionally, we conducted a retrospective unbiased cluster analysis of ipRGC photoresponses to light stimuli across scotopic, mesopic, and photopic intensities, aimed at activating both rod and cone inputs to ipRGCs. Our results revealed shared and distinct synaptic inputs to the identified functional clusters, demonstrating that ipRGCs encode visual information with high fidelity at low light intensities, but poorly at photopic light intensities, when melanopsin activation is highest. Collectively, our findings support a framework with at least 8 functional subtypes of ipRGCs, each encoding luminance with distinct spike outputs, highlighting the inherent functional diversity and complexity of ipRGCs and suggesting a reevaluation of their contributions to retinal function and visual perception under varying light conditions.
Arrest of movement induced by Pedunculopontine-stimulation obstructs hippocampal theta rhythm
Authors: Kaur Jaspreet , Komi Salif A. , Dmytriyeva Oksana , Houser Grace A. , Bonfils Madelaine C. A. , Berg Rune W.
Published: August 2023

Complete movement arrest has recently been reported to be induced in rodents by optogenetic stimulation of a subpopulation within the pedunculopontine nucleus (PPN). This evoked arrest appears conspicuously similar to freezing behavior often seen as a fear response in prey animals but could also be akin to the freezing of gait, which is a symptom of Parkinson’s disease. This introduces two perspectives on the functional roles of this sub-region: A hub for orchestrating fear-related responses or an omnipotent halting mechanism devoid of emotional components. To better understand this phenomenon and its cognitive component, we engage the distinct electrical brain activity, the hippocampal theta rhythm. This rhythm has a well-described contextual association between various aspects of cognition and behavior. It is prominent during locomotor activity in rodents and immobile yet aroused states like behavioral freezing. We recorded the electrical activity in the hippocampus of rats while walking and being arrested by PPN stimulation. A clear obstruction of the ongoing theta activity was associated with the motor arrest. The timescale of movement arrest was less than 200 ms, similar to the obstruction of the theta rhythm. Since, anxiety, fear, and behavioral freezing are associated with hippocampal theta rhythm, which we did not see during PPN stimulation, we suggest the induced motor arrest occurs without an associated emotional component.
Tadpoles develop elevated heat tolerance in urban heat islands regardless of sex
Authors: Bókony Veronika , Balogh Emese , Ujszegi János , Ujhegyi Nikolett , Szederkényi Márk , Hettyey Attila
Published: August 2023

The ability of wildlife to endure the effects of high temperatures is increasingly important for biodiversity conservation under climate change and spreading urbanization. Organisms living in urban heat islands can have elevated heat toleranceviaboth phenotypic plasticity and microevolution. However, the prevalence and mechanisms of such thermal adaptations are barely known in aquatic organisms. Furthermore, males and females can differ in heat tolerance, which may lead to sex-biased mortality, yet it is unknown how sex differences in thermal biology influence urban adaptations. To address these knowledge gaps, we measured critical thermal maxima (CTmax) in male and female agile frog (Rana dalmatina) tadpoles captured from warm urban ponds and cool woodland ponds, and in a common-garden experiment where embryos collected from both habitat types were raised in the laboratory. We found higher CTmaxin urban-dwelling tadpoles compared to their counterparts living in woodland ponds. This difference was reversed in the common-garden experiment: tadpoles originating from urban ponds had lower CTmaxthan tadpoles originating from woodland ponds. We found no effect of sex on CTmaxor its difference between habitats. These results demonstrate that aquatic amphibian larvae can respond to the urban heat island effect with increased heat tolerance similarly to the other, mostly terrestrial taxa studied so far, and that phenotypic plasticity may be the main driver of this response. Our findings also suggest that heat-induced mortality may be independent of sex in tadpoles, but research is needed in many more taxa to explore potentially sex-dependent urban thermal responses.
Defective cytoskeletal dynamics underlies the essential role of MRTF-SRF in IL-2 delivery to CD8+T cells during infectious challenge
Authors: Maurice Diane , Costello Patrick , Gualdrini Francesco , Frederico Bruno , Treisman Richard
Published: August 2023

Paracrine IL-2 signalling underpins late primary CD8+ T cell expansion and differentiation that allow protection against viral infections, yet the requirements for effective delivery of IL-2 to recipient cells remain poorly understood. We show that the SRF transcription factor, a master regulator of cytoskeletal dynamics, is essential for the response toL. monocytogenesinfection. SRF acts cell-autonomously with its actin-regulated MRTF cofactorsMrtfaandMrtfbto sustain CD8+effector T cell expansion and persistence of memory cells. MRTF-SRF activity is not required for initial TCR-mediated CD8+T cell proliferation, but is necessary for subsequent IL-2 dependent expansion. Following TCR activationin vitro,Mrtfab-null CD8+T cells produce IL-2 normally, but exhibit defective paracrine IL-2 signalling. Cluster formation by activatedMrtfab-null CD8+T cells is impaired: clusters are smaller and less dense, have substantially reduced F-actin content, retain less IL-2, and exhibit defective cytoskeletal gene expression. ActivatedMrtfab-null CD8+T cells also exhibit defective homotypic clusteringin vivo. The requirement for MRTF-SRF signalling for CD8+T cell proliferation during infection thus reflects its involvement in cytoskeletal dynamics.
LincRNAs enable germ cells differentiation by promoting PUF proteins condensation
Authors: Falk Roni , Gilad Noa , Achache Hanna , Rappaport Yisrael , Shabtai Reut , Ishtayeh Hasan , Wolovelsky Laura , Tzur Yonatan B.
Published: August 2023

Successful tissue homeostasis depends on a balance between proliferation and differentiation. Two PUF proteins, FBF-1 and FBF-2, maintain stem-cells proliferation inC. elegansgerm-cells by binding and destabilizing transcripts which promote meiotic entry. However, it is unclear how meiosis initiates because the FBF are also present at significant levels in late proliferative and early meiotic cells. We found that the three long-intergenic-non-coding RNAs (lincRNAs) that bind the FBF proteins promote timely meiotic entry. Deletion of the lincRNA genes leads to additive reduction in progenitor cell number and fertility. In the lincRNAs deletion mutant, expression of many known FBF-2 targets is significantly lower, suggesting over-activation of FBF-2. In this mutant, FBF-2 localization in perinuclear condensates is reduced, and its cytoplasmic fraction increases. Moreover, FBF-2 association with the germline P-granules decreases without the lincRNAs. Our results indicate that lincRNAs act to promote meiotic differentiation by spatially restricting pro-proliferation factors into phase-separated granules.
Triple tandem trimer immunogens for HIV-1 and influenza nucleic acid-based vaccines
Authors: del Moral-Sánchez Iván , Wee Edmund G. , Xian Yuejiao , Lee Wen-Hsin , Allen Joel D. , Torrents de la Peña Alba , Rocha Rebeca Fróes , Ferguson James , León André N. , Koekkoek Sylvie , Schermer Edith E. , Burger Judith A. , Kumar Sanjeev , Zwolsman Robby , Brinkkemper Mitch , Aartse Aafke , Eggink Dirk , Han Julianna , Yuan Meng , Crispin Max , Ozorowski Gabriel , Ward Andrew B. , Wilson Ian A. , Hanke Tomáš , Sliepen Kwinten , Sanders Rogier W.
Published: August 2023

Recombinant native-like HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein (Env) trimers are used in candidate vaccines aimed at inducing broadly neutralizing antibodies. While state-of-the-art SOSIP or single-chain Env designs can be expressed as native-like trimers, undesired monomers, dimers and malformed trimers that elicit non-neutralizing antibodies are also formed, implying that these designs could benefit from further modifications for gene-based vaccination approaches. Here, we describe the triple tandem trimer (TTT) design in which three Env protomers are genetically linked in a single open reading frame and express as native-like trimers. Viral vectored Env TTT induced similar neutralization titers but with a higher proportion of trimer-specific responses. The TTT design was also applied to generate influenza hemagglutinin (HA) trimers without the need for trimerization domains. Additionally, we used TTT to generate well-folded chimeric Env and HA trimers that harbor protomers from three different strains. In summary, the TTT design is a useful platform for the design of HIV-1 Env and influenza HA immunogens for a multitude of vaccination strategies.
A mechanically regulated liquid-liquid phase separation of the transcriptional regulator Tono instructs muscle development
Authors: Zhang Xu , Avellaneda Jerome , Spletter Maria L. , Lemke Sandra , Mangeol Pierre , Habermann Bianca H. , Schnorrer Frank
Published: August 2023

Muscle morphogenesis is a multi-step program, starting with myoblast fusion, followed by myotube-tendon attachment and sarcomere assembly, with subsequent sarcomere maturation, mitochondrial amplification and specialisation. The correct chronological order of these steps requires precise control of the transcriptional regulators and their effectors. How this regulation is achieved during muscle development is not well understood. In a genome-wide RNAi screen inDrosophila, we identified the BTB-zinc finger protein Tono (CG32121) as a muscle-specific transcriptional regulator.tonomutant flight muscles display severe deficits in mitochondria and sarcomere maturation, resulting in uncontrolled contractile forces causing muscle atrophy during development. Tono protein is expressed during sarcomere maturation and localises in distinct condensates in flight muscle nuclei. Interestingly, internal pressure exerted by the maturing sarcomeres deforms the muscle nuclei into elongated shapes and changes the Tono condensates, suggesting that Tono senses the mechanical status of the muscle cells. Indeed, external mechanical pressure on the muscles triggers rapid liquid-liquid phase separation of Tono utilising its BTB domain. Thus, we propose that Tono senses high mechanical pressure to in turn adapt muscle transcription specifically at the sarcomere maturation stage. Consistently,tonomutant muscles display specific defects in a transcriptional switch that represses early muscle differentiation genes and boosts late ones. We hypothesise that a similar mechano-responsive regulation mechanism may control the activity of related BTB-zinc finger proteins that, if mutated, can result in uncontrolled force production in human muscle.
Acoelomorph flatworm monophyly is a severe long branch-attraction artefact obscuring a clade of Acoela and Xenoturbellida
Authors: Redmond Anthony K
Published: August 2023

Acoelomorpha is a broadly accepted clade of bilaterian animals made up of the fast-evolving, morphologically simple, mainly marine flatworm lineages Acoela and Nemertodermatida. Phylogenomic studies support Acoelomorpha’s close relationship with the slowly evolving and similarly simplisticXenoturbella, together forming the phylum Xenacoelomorpha. The phylogenetic placement of Xenacoelomorpha amongst bilaterians is controversial, with some studies supporting Xenacoelomorpha as the sister group to all other bilaterians, implying that their simplicity may be representative of early bilaterians. Others propose that this placement is a long branch attraction artefact resulting from the fast-evolving Acoelomorpha, and instead suggest that they are the secondarily simplified sister group of the deuterostome clade Ambulacraria. Perhaps as a result of this debate, internal xenacoelomorph relationships have been somewhat overlooked at a phylogenomic scale. Here, I employ both empirical and simulation approaches to detect and overcome phylogenomic errors to reassess the relationship betweenXenoturbellaand the fast evolving acoelomorph flatworms. I conclude that subphylum Acoelomorpha is a long-branch attraction artefact obscuring a previously undiscovered clade comprisingXenoturbellaand Acoela, for which I propose the name Xenacoela. These analyses are also consistent with the Nephrozoa hypothesis deriving from systematic error, and instead generally favour a close, but unclear, relationship of Xenacoelomorpha with deuterostomes. This study provides a template for future efforts aimed at discovering and correcting unrecognised long-branch attraction artefacts throughout the tree of life.
The proteomic landscape of genotoxic stress-induced micronuclei
Authors: MacDonald Kate M. , Khan Shahbaz , Kislinger Thomas , Harding Shane M.
Published: August 2023

Micronuclei (MN) are induced by various genotoxic stressors and amass nuclear- and cytoplasmic-resident proteins, priming the cell for MN-driven signalling cascades. Here, we measure the proteome of micronuclear, cytoplasmic, and nuclear fractions from human cells exposed to a panel of six genotoxins, comprehensively profiling their MN protein landscape. We find that MN assemble a proteome distinct from both surrounding cytoplasm and parental nuclei, with a core composition that is independent of the specific inciting stressor. Across stress conditions, MN are significantly depleted for spliceosome machinery and replication stress response proteins, but are enriched for a subset of the replisome. We find that the loss of splicing machinery within transcriptionally active MN contributes to intra-MN DNA damage, a known precursor to chromothripsis. This dataset represents a unique resource detailing the proteomic landscape of MN, guiding mechanistic studies of MN generation and MN-associated outcomes of genotoxic stress.
Spatiotemporal control of microtubule acetylation by mechanical cues regulates lysosome dynamics at the immune synapse of B cells to promote antigen presentation
Authors: Del Valle Batalla Felipe , Riobó Isidora , Hernández-Pérez Sara , Mattila Pieta K , Yuseff María Isabel
Published: August 2023

The capacity of B cells to extract immobilized antigens through the formation of an immune synapse can be tuned by the physical characteristics of the surface where antigens are encountered. However, the underlying mechanisms that couple mechanosensing by B cells to antigen extraction and processing remain poorly understood.

We show that B cells activated by antigens associated with stiffer substrates exhibit enhanced spreading responses and higher tubulin acetylation at the center of the immune synapse, where less motile lysosomes preferentially localize. This process is coupled to the translocation of the microtubule acetylase, ATAT1 to the cytoplasm of B cells, which occurs as a mechano-response during BCR stimulation. Accordingly, B cells silenced for ATAT1 are unable to stabilize lysosomes at the synaptic interface and display a lower capacity to extract and present immobilized antigens to T cells.

Overall, these findings highlight how BCR-dependent mechano-responses trigger microtubule network modifications to precisely orchestrate lysosome positioning to promote antigen extraction and presentation in B cells.
Is there a mediating role of corporate social responsibility between board independence, board diversity, and dividend payouts decision?
Authors: Naseem Muhammad Akram , Ali Rizwan , Ur Rehman Ramiz
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the mediating role of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the link between board independence, board diversity and dividend payouts underpinning the agency theory perspective. As boards are ultimately responsible for decision-making, it includes CSR, dividend payouts and other strategic decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

Board independence and board diversity (female director, female independent director) are used as explanatory variables, CSR scores as a mediator and dividend payout explained variables. The relevant data were collected from 159 listed firms of the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) from 2013 to 2019, consisting of 1,113 year-firm observations. For empirical estimation, the study used the Tobit regression analysis and Sobel test to check the significance of the mediation to confirm the hypothesis.

Findings

The results confirm that independence and diversity on the board are positively related to dividend payouts. Further, CSR partially mediates the link between independence and diversity on board-dividend payouts, which confirms the argument that firms with involvement in CSR practices are also associated with dividend payouts.

Research limitations/implications

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is novel to address whether CSR mediates the link of the board’s independence and diversity and dividend payouts in Pakistan’s setting. The results of this study have restricted generalizability due to the specific nature of the sample characteristics; future researchers can extend the research scope.

Practical implications

Theoretically practically, the results imply that CSR spending also enhances the distribution to firms' shareholders, thus becoming attractive to investors. This study enriches the literature on board attributes-dividend policy nexus, which strengthens through CSR practices and is relevant to practice in line with sustainable development in an emerging context.

Originality/value

CSR practices are an understudied but significant factor that links stakeholders' beliefs about firms' decision-making strategies, enhancing dividend announcements. In doing so, this study's findings contribute to the literature, regulators, shareholders and investor at various levels.
Environmental change impacts and inclusive rural tourism development on the livelihoods of native societies: evidence from Musina Municipality, South Africa
Authors: Ramaano Azwindini Isaac
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This study aims to explore the latent potential of alternative-responsible tourism and ecotourism leadership in sustainable tourism and the sustenance of rural communities in Musina Municipality in Limpopo Province, South Africa. It also sought to compare this potential with other African pastoral areas and to integrate it with various rural sites elsewhere abroad.

Design/methodology/approach

Narrative literature, document reviews, interviews and focus group discussions were used to garner relevant data and were analyzed through cross-tabulation analysis and manually. On this account, probable climate change-bound environmental consequences, rural, tourism, farming and ecological administration issues came to the forefront.

Findings

The examination correlates the potential position of proper ecotourism exercises and responsible tourism as an agreeable path to promote sustainability in rural localities. Subsequently, upon apparent countryside products, ecotourism and farming exercises glimpsed in the study area, environmental degradation poses a conceivable hazard to natural resource governance. Hereafter, it aggravates the possibilities for climate change effects and poor subsistence.

Originality/value

The rich biodiversity in the study area provides platforms for sustainable rural tourism enterprises and addresses any pertinent concerns. Thus, the study has manifested a demand for a creative tourism approach and innovations against environmental change outcomes and to capacitate Musina Municipality residents and probably others elsewhere on the continent to engage in ethical tourism initiatives and sustainable livelihoods.
Online impulse buying and cognitive appraisal theory: two countries comparison
Authors: Kursan Milaković Ivana , Ahmad Asad
Published: August 2023

Purpose

With the rapid growth of the Internet and the wide acceptance of e-commerce, online impulse buying is rising; however, the consumer motivation to buy impulsively within the digital setting calls for continuous exploration. Through the lens of cognitive appraisal theory, the authors aim to explore the relevance of web quality factors (cognitive processes) and hedonism (emotional response) for online impulse buying in the cross-cultural context of India and Croatia. The study also attempts to investigate the varying effects of sales promotion and payment options (cognitive processes) on the relationship between hedonism and online impulse buying.

Design/methodology/approach

The researchers in the present study have adapted the refined eTailQ scale along with factors like hedonism, sales promotion and payment options determining impulse buying—the measurement instrument comprised of a highly structured questionnaire covering consumers' attitudes and opinions regarding the explored concepts. A total of 526 responses were generated in the data collection process, wherein 264 were from India and 262 were from Croatia.

Findings

The results reveal that not all web quality determinants affect impulse buying similarly. Web informativeness significantly, but negatively, impacts impulse buying only regarding Croatian consumers, while customer service influences impulse buying in the Indian market. Web layout and privacy do not influence impulse buying. However, besides hedonism's direct impact on impulse buying in both countries, the results show that the influences of web layout and privacy on impulse buying are mediated via hedonism. Given the varying effects, this study shows that, unlike the payment options, only sales promotion represents a significant moderator that enhances the relationship between hedonism and impulse buying in both countries.

Originality/value

This study utilises cognitive appraisal theory to compare the effects in two countries through cognitive appraisals, emotional responses, and situational factors for explaining online impulse buying behaviour. The study also offers practical managerial implications.
A two-scale method to include essential screw connection behaviour in two-way coupled fire-structure simulations
Authors: Xu Qingfeng , Hofmeyer Hèrm , Maljaars Johan
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Simulations exist for the prediction of the behaviour of building structural systems under fire, including two-way coupled fire-structure interaction. However, these simulations do not include detailed models of the connections, whereas these connections may impact the overall behaviour of the structure. Therefore, this paper proposes a two-scale method to include screw connections.

Design/methodology/approach

The two-scale method consists of (a) a global-scale model that models the overall structural system and (b) a small-scale model to describe a screw connection. Components in the global-scale model are connected by a spring element instead of a modelled screw, and the stiffness of this spring element is predicted by the small-scale model, updated at each load step. For computational efficiency, the small-scale model uses a proprietary technique to model the behaviour of the threads, verified by simulations that model the complete thread geometry, and validated by existing pull-out experiments. For four screw failure modes, load-deformation behaviour and failure predictions of the two-scale method are verified by a detailed system model. Additionally, the two-scale method is validated for a combined load case by existing experiments, and demonstrated for different temperatures. Finally, the two-scale method is illustrated as part of a two-way coupled fire-structure simulation.

Findings

It was shown that proprietary ”threaded connection interaction” can predict thread relevant failure modes, i.e. thread failure, shank tension failure, and pull-out. For bearing, shear, tension, and pull-out failure, load-deformation behaviour and failure predictions of the two-scale method correspond with the detailed system model and Eurocode predictions. Related to combined load cases, for a variety of experiments a good correlation has been found between experimental and simulation results, however, pull-out simulations were shown to be inconsistent.

Research limitations/implications

More research is needed before the two-scale method can be used under all conditions. This relates to the failure criteria for pull-out, combined load cases, and temperature loads.

Originality/value

The two-scale method bridges the existing very detailed small-scale screw models with present global-scale structural models, that in the best case only use springs. It shows to be insightful, for it contains a functional separation of scales, revealing their relationships, and it is computationally efficient as it allows for distributed computing. Furthermore, local small-scale non-convergence (e.g. a screw failing) can be handled without convergence problems in the global-scale structural model.
Vibration response analysis of a two-stage vibration isolation system for large airborne equipment
Authors: Zhu Hongyan , Lv Pengzhen , Wu Xiaochong , Wang Yuansheng , Liu Wei , Lin Huagang , Yue Zhufeng
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a two-stage vibration isolation system for large airborne equipment to isolate aircraft vibration load.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the vibration isolation law of the discrete model of large airborne equipment under different damping ratios, stiffness ratios and mass ratios is analyzed, which guides the establishment of a three-dimensional solid model of large airborne equipment. Subsequently, the vibration isolation transfer efficiency is analyzed based on the three-dimensional model of the airborne equipment, and the angular and linear vibration responses of the two-stage vibration isolation system under different frequencies are studied.

Findings

Finally, studies have shown that the steady-state angular vibration at the non-resonant frequency changes little. In contrast, the maximum angular vibration at the resonance peak reaches 0.0033 rad, at least 20 times the response at the non-resonant frequency. The linear vibration at the resonant frequency is at least 2.14 times the response at the non-resonant frequency. Obviously, the amplification factor of linear vibration is less than that of angular vibration, and angular vibration has the most significant effect on the internal vibration of airborne equipment.

Originality/value

The two-stage vibration isolation equipment designed in this paper has a positive guiding significance for the vibration isolation design of large airborne equipment.
Effectiveness of equipping bus stop shelters with cooling and filtering systems in a city with tropical climate
Authors: Velasco Erik , Segovia Elvagris
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Waiting for a bus may represent a period of intense exposure to traffic particles in hot and noisy conditions in the street. To lessen the particle load and tackle heat in bus stops a shelter was equipped with an electrostatic precipitator and a three-step adiabatic cooling system capable of dynamically adjust its operation according to actual conditions. This study evaluates the effectiveness of the Airbitat Oasis Smart Bus Stop, as the shelter was called, to provide clean and cool air.

Design/methodology/approach

The particle exposure experienced in this innovative shelter was contrasted with that in a conventional shelter located right next to it. Mass concentrations of fine particles and black carbon, and particle number concentration (as a proxy of ultrafine particles) were simultaneously measured in both shelters. Air temperature, relative humidity and noise level were also measured.

Findings

The new shelter did not perform as expected. It only slightly reduced the abundance of fine particles (−6.5%), but not of ultrafine particles and black carbon. Similarly, it reduced air temperature (−1 °C), but increased relative humidity (3%). Its operation did not generate additional noise.

Practical implications

The shelter's poor performance was presumably due to design flaws induced by a lack of knowledge on traffic particles and fluid dynamics in urban environments. This is an example where harnessing technology without understanding the problem to solve does not work.

Originality/value

It is uncommon to come across case studies like this one in which the performance and effectiveness of urban infrastructure can be assessed under real-life service settings.
Morphological variations of the lung: Accessory fissures and lobes
Authors: Branca Jacopo Junio Valerio , Veltro Cristiana , Guarnieri Giulia , Pacini Alessandra , Paternostro Ferdinando
Published: August 2023

Anatomical variability in the human body is not as rare as was previously hypothesised. Indeed, as recently reviewed, the term ‘norm’ in anatomy can be considered an approximation. Thus, anatomical variations occur quite often, as largely demonstrated during non‐invasive diagnosis, surgical intervention, or post mortem investigations. In the present study, we describe different anatomical variations in both the right and left lungs derived from cadavers of different ethnicities. The analysed organs were collected during dissection, and accessory lobes and fissures were observed in both the right and left lungs. Moreover, a horizontal fissure was missing from the right lung, resulting in only two lobes. Since lung anatomical variability is common in clinical practice and preclinical imaging studies can miss different morphologies, a deep and accurate knowledge of the anatomical variations of the lung is of extreme importance to avoid difficulties or changes during the surgical procedure.
The impact of center volume on the utilization and outcomes of machine perfusion technology in liver transplantation: An international survey
Authors: Angelico Roberta , Sensi Bruno , Quaranta Claudia , Orsi Michela , Parente Alessandro , Schlegel Andrea , Tisone Giuseppe , Manzia Tommaso M. ,   the Real‐World Machine Perfusion Study Group
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Machine perfusion (MP) was developed to expand the donor pool and improve liver transplantation (LT) outcomes. Despite optimal results in clinical trials, the real‐world MP benefit in centers with low‐/mid‐volume activity (LVCs) is still being determined.

Methods

Online survey on MP for LT, distributed to worldwide LT‐centers representatives. Variables of interest included logistics, technicalities, and outcomes. Responders were grouped into high‐volume centers (HVCs) (>60 LTs/year) and LVCs and results compared.

Results

Sixty‐seven centers were included, 36 HVCs and 31 LVCs. Significant differences in MP regarded: (I) existence of an established program (80.6% vs. 41.9%; p = 0.02), (II) presence of a dedicated perfusionist (58.3% vs. 22.6%; p = 0.006), (III) duration (>4 h: 47.2% vs. 16.1%; p = 0.01), (IV) routine use (20%–40% vs. 5%–20%; p = 0.002), (V) graft utilization (>50%: 75% vs. 51.6%; p = 0.009), (VI) 90‐day patient‐survival (90%–100% vs. 50%–90%; p = 0.001) and (VII) subjectively perceived benefit (always vs. only in selected ECD; p = 0.009). Concordance was found for indications, type, viability tests, graft‐salvage, 90‐day graft‐loss, and major‐complications.

Conclusions

This study captured a picture of MP in real‐world LT‐practice. Significant disparities have surfaced between LVCs and HVCs regarding logistics, utilization, and results. To close this gap, efforts should be made to more efficiently deliver dedicated support, training and mentoring to LVC teams adopting MP technology.
Firm governance structures, earnings management, and carbon emission disclosures in Chinese high‐polluting firms
Authors: Abbas Ali , Zhang Guoqing , Bilal  , Chengang Ye
Published: August 2023

This study examines the influence of firm governance structures (board size, independence, CEO duality, director share ownership, and board meeting frequency) in relation to carbon emission disclosures by high‐polluting Chinses firms. In addition, the study further examined the moderating role of earnings management on this relationship. In line with stakeholder and agency theories, our study identified that the large and independent boards exercise and demonstrate a higher degree of carbon emission disclosures. However, CEO duality and director share ownership are associated with lower carbon emission disclosures. In addition, the study determined that higher earnings management results in a reduced level of carbon emission disclosures. Lastly, a firm earnings management strategy moderates the relationship between a firm governance structure and its carbon emission disclosures. The findings from the study are consistent with multiple econometric models and variables. The findings from the study contribute to the literature in the areas of firm corporate governance and carbon emission disclosures by documenting the moderating role of earnings management, which is not evident in previous studies; provide an enhanced perspective on the implications for firms, regulators, policymakers, and stakeholders who have an interest in reducing carbon emissions and advancing climate change mitigation goals in line with UN's Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7: climate action, and zero emissions goal by 2050.
Kidney donors' interests and the prohibition on sales
Authors: Semrau Luke
Published: August 2023

I shall argue, first, that potential kidney donors may be subject to harmful pressure to donate. This pressure may take almost any form; people have diverse interests, and anything that could set them back may qualify as pressure. Given features of the context—the high stakes, the involvement of family, and the social meaning of donation—such pressure may be especially harmful. This problem is less tractable than the more familiar worry that pressure may compromise consent. Screening may ensure donors validly consent, but it provides no protection against harmful pressure. I shall argue, second, that the use of such pressure is the predictable consequence of the prohibition on kidney sales. Potential donors have something—a transplantable kidney—that is both valuable and scarce. Many of them, informed about donation, decide against it. Those in need of a transplant may seek to persuade the unwilling. Given the prohibition, the donation cannot be made more attractive in absolute terms by, say, the addition of money. However, it can be made more attractive in relative terms. If declining the option is made worse, then, by comparison, accepting it is made better. The application of harmful pressure has the desired effect. With so much at stake, and no good alternatives, its use is predictable. I conclude that potential donors' interests should figure more prominently in the discussion of transplant policy. Those who defend the prohibition have made virtually no attempt to account for its impact on that group.
Systemic treatments in Parthenium dermatitis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Akham Rojita , Bhatia Riti , Das Amity , Bhadoria Ajeet Singh , Pathak Mona , Hazarika Neirita
Published: August 2023

Parthenium dermatitis is the commonest form of plant dermatitis in India, caused by the plant Parthenium hysterophorus. Systemic immunosuppressives are commonly employed in its treatment. However, there is a relative lack of comparative head‐to‐head trials. This study was done to assess the relative efficacy and safety of systemic treatments in Parthenium dermatitis. We systematically reviewed all the published studies investigating the safety and efficacy of systemic treatments for Parthenium dermatitis in the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, Embase, and clinical trial registries. Treatment benefit data were tabulated based on outcome measures of scoring systems. The quality of evidence for each outcome was assessed by Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria for meta‐analysis. The pooled Standardized mean difference (SMD) for case series and comparative studies based on clinical severity score (CSS) for azathioprine was 4.007 (95% CI (Confidence interval): 3.141, 4.873) and 0.746 (95% CI: 0.139, 1.352), respectively. About 88.8% (95% CI: 76.8%, 100.8%, p = 0.076) of the patients had excellent or a good response to azathioprine. Our meta‐analysis shows that azathioprine has the highest level of evidence in the treatment of Parthenium dermatitis.