bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Digital literacy competencies among students in higher learning institutions in Kazakhstan
Authors: Kanyika Martin Elihaki , Sadykova Raikhan , Kosmyrza Zhansaya
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to assess the digital literacy competencies among students in higher learning institutions in Kazakhstan.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey design was used. Simple random sampling was used to draw sample. Primary data were collected using Web/online questionnaires (Google Form). A total of 370 online questionnaires were disseminated to the respondents to their email addresses. Quantitative data collected were analyzed using MS Excel 2010. Thus, descriptive statistics were computed and the results were further presented in tables, charts and figures.

Findings

Results reveal that students are very competent in using digital technologies to communicate and share their educational digital contents, whereas they indicate moderate competence and incompetence in other essential digital literacy skills crucial for their academic pursuits. Furthermore, this study revealed that students frequently use digital technologies for educational purposes, with statistical analysis [t(381) = 4.562, p < 0.00001, two-tailed] indicating a significant difference between the extent and purpose of their digital usage. Moreover, findings identified health issues, technical issues and the constantly changing of hardware and software as primary challenges faced students when engaging with digital technologies.

Originality/value

This study is new in the context of Kazakhstan analyzing the digital literacy competencies among students, with a particular focus on elucidating the five fundamental facets of such competencies. This study therefore, recommends the implementation of comprehensive and consistent training programs aimed at imparting necessary digital literacy skills to students.
Adoption of mobile applications (apps) for information management in small agribusiness enterprises – an exploratory mixed-methods study of Farmer Producer Companies in India
Authors: Sudha S. , Ganeshkumar C. , Kokatnur Shilpa S.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Small farmers in India are collectivized and legalized as Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) to progress in agri-food value chains as small agribusiness enterprises. FPCs are dependent on timely information for their sustainability and profitability. Mobile apps are a cost-effective form of information and communication technology. Hence, the purpose of this study is to explore the major determinants of mobile apps adoption by FPCs.

Design/methodology/approach

Quantitative and qualitative data are collected by administering a semi-structured questionnaire and conducting in-depth interviews with board members of 115 FPCs, with a total membership of 30,405 farmers operating in 14 districts of the state of Kerala, India. The logit model is used for quantitative analysis, while dialog mapping is used for qualitative analysis, based on an integrated technology acceptance model and technology organization environment framework.

Findings

Logistic regression results evidence that amongst FPC characteristics, while company size and age are significantly impacting apps adoption, there is no significant association between board size, education level, multiple commodities business or export intention of companies on apps adoption. Digital literacy and technical hands-on training for FPC board members are quintessential to facilitate mobile apps adoption.

Practical implications

The findings are pertinent to policymakers to earmark funds for technical handholding and digital upskilling of FPCs. The need for developing comprehensive, location-centric, farmer-friendly apps by agritech companies is evidenced.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is a pioneering work in the domain of mobile apps adoption from a farmers’ agribusiness enterprise perspective in an emerging market economy using a mixed-methods approach.
Assessment of the effectiveness of online e-resources marketing tools in university libraries
Authors: Muneja Paul Samwel
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to assess the effectiveness of online e-resource marketing tools used by university libraries to market e-resources. The specific objectives of this study were to uncover the e-resources that are showcased by university libraries, find out instructions posted by libraries to facilitate access and utilization of e-resources, examine marketing tools used, examine how current and relevant marketing messages and test the functionality of the marketing tools used.

Design/methodology/approach

An exploratory research design was used to assess the effectiveness of e-resources marketing tools. The study population included all public university libraries in Tanzania. The sample was purposively selected to include all publicly funded libraries as they work under similar management environments. Data collection involved the evaluation of online marketing tools using a matrix checklist.

Findings

It was revealed that most university libraries use websites for showcasing e-resources. The commonly used social media for marketing e-resources is Facebook followed by Instagram while Twitter and Ask a Librarian are the least used. The results further show that only a few universities provide instructions on how to access and use e-resources. The findings indicate that universities had active communication platforms for marketing e-resources. Furthermore, less than 50% of marketing messages are active and current. It is recommended that marketing e-resources should be integrated into the library’s plans and strategies and this should be informed by library policies.

Research limitations/implications

Given that, this study involved Tanzanian public university libraries, it is possible that the findings do not represent the same situation in all academic university libraries in the nation.

Originality/value

This study assesses the effectiveness of online tools used to market e-resources in university libraries in Tanzania. It reveals the e-resources that are showcased online, the instructions provided on how to access the e-resources and the functionality of the marketing tools. Unlike the previous research, which primarily focused on evaluating the Web-based tools in university and college libraries, this study focused on public libraries in the country. The results will not only contribute to the theoretical and practical understanding of the functionality of the marketing tools but also provide actionable insights to decision-makers in libraries in marketing their e-resources.
Industry 5.0's pillars and Lean Six Sigma: mapping the current interrelationship and future research directions
Authors: Cuevas César , Mira-Solves Ignacio , Verdu-Jover Antonio
Published: September 2024

Purpose

In the evolving landscape of Industry 5.0 (I5.0), which emphasises sustainability, human-centricity and resilience, mapping the current interrelationship and future research directions, the role of Lean Six Sigma (LSS) methodology remains underexplored. Our study addresses this gap by examining the potential of LSS to support I5.0 while identifying areas for further investigation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study's multifaceted approach, which includes systematic literature review (SLR), bibliographic network analysis (BNA) and expert validation (EV), provides a holistic exploration of the interaction between LSS and I5.0 as the basis for well-founded conclusions.

Findings

The analysis yields several valuable insights. Firstly, it demonstrates the absence of a direct link between LSS and I5.0. Secondly, the substantial body of literature analysed establishes connections between LSS and its pillars. Thirdly, the analysis identifies points of intersection, difference and similarity between LSS and I5.0, highlighting the potential of LSS to facilitate implementation of I5.0 through its proven methodologies, continuous improvement culture, risk management, error learning, human–machine collaboration and training and skill development.

Originality/value

This study pioneers the effort to realise the latent potential of LSS in the context of I5.0. Its systematic identification of the synergies between these paradigms fills a critical gap in the literature and gives policymakers, managers and researchers a guide for informed decision-making to maximise the benefits of I5.0 for individuals, companies, society and the planet.
Not all communication styles are created equal: the differing effects of communicating the family business brand’s roots and virtues
Authors: Aloui Narjess , Sdiri Imen , Chaouali Walid , Mousa Mohamed , Danks Nicholas Patrick
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impact of communication style focusing on the family business brand’s roots and virtues on inferences of manipulative intent and willingness to pay a price premium, applying the persuasion knowledge model.

Design/methodology/approach

This study collects data involving 337 participants from France and applies partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The results demonstrate that communication style plays an important role in inferences of manipulative intent: focusing on the family business brand’s virtues has a positive effect while focusing on the family business brand’s roots has a nonsignificant effect. In turn, inferences of manipulative intent have a negative and significant effect on willingness to pay a price premium. Furthermore, age does not moderate the effect of communication style focusing on the family restaurant brand’s roots and inferences of manipulative intent but positively moderates the effect of communication style focusing on the family restaurant brand’s virtues on inferences of manipulative intent.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to try to unpack the differing effects of communication styles in the context of family business brands. In this vein, it has insightful theoretical and managerial implications for family business brands.
Critical development of Islamic financial technology ecosystem: lesson learned from financial technology literature
Authors: Hijriah Hanifiyah Yuliatul , Rusgianto Sulistya , Kholidah Himmatul , Herianingrum Sri , Md Sahiq Aqilah Nadiah
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to draw lessons from the financial technology (FinTech) ecosystem literature through a systematic literature review.

Design/methodology/approach

This study systematically studied a sample of 134 articles from the Scopus database to assess the pattern of research development within the scope of the FinTech ecosystem over the last 15 years (2008–2023).

Findings

The results obtained indicated that the current research focus leads to several aspects: digital technology and financial inclusion, FinTech and customer behavior, FinTech ecosystem, business model, as well as aspects of governance and regulation. In the effort to develop Islamic FinTech, some aspects that might be targeted include aspects of business development and the Islamic FinTech ecosystem in general, extending financial inclusion to governance and managerial implementation of Islamic FinTech itself.

Research limitations/implications

This research has limitations because it did not focus on the study of more specialized sectors, such as insurance or microfinance institutions, in adopting FinTech, requiring the use of other specifications of institutions in addition to Islamic banking.

Practical implications

This research has substantial theoretical implications in mapping the intellectual structure of Islamic FinTech research, which has been underexplored by previous researchers, as well as providing essential information about which sectors should be prioritized to encourage inclusiveness and overall performance of financial institutions.

Originality/value

This research explores more deeply with a comprehensive approach so that it becomes a pioneer in the study of FinTech ecosystem literature for the development of Islamic FinTech.
Behind the curtain: exploring the inter-governmental collaboration mechanisms for e-governance platforms
Authors: Mu Rui , Wang Yuting
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To fill the gap, this article examines the inter-governmental collaboration mechanisms behind the platform curtain.

Design/methodology/approach

Behind the curtain is to look at what makes things happen backstage. For collaborative e-governance platforms, scholars have assumed that technological factors and user characteristics are the determinants for platform success. Little attention has been paid to the issue of how multiple governments, acting as platform co-builders and co-operators, interact and collaborate backstage to provide integrated e-services.

Findings

Based on data from survey questionnaires sent to government employees, the results show that governments’ information processing capacities cannot directly affect collaboration; however, these capacities can impact collaboration via the mediating variable of horizontal relations. In addition, we found that higher-ranking authorities are better suited to intervene once horizontal relations have been established and that more adaptable organizations are better at forming horizontal relations with peers. For governments participating in collaborative e-governance platforms, our findings are practically applicable.

Originality/value

The research question reads as: How do various government departments acting as platform co-builders and co-operators judge their collaboration performance, and what collaboration mechanisms contribute to it? We study this research question by constructing a conceptual model based on the Organizational Information Processing Theory (OIPT) and the Collaborative Governance Theory (CGT), both suggesting information processing capacities, organizational flexibility, horizontal relations and vertical intervention as indispensable factors influencing collaboration performance in ICT-supported groupwork. We propose and test four hypotheses on the relationships among these four factors to reveal the inter-governmental collaboration mechanisms for cross-government platformisation projects.
The impact of teacher's pedagogical leadership on student achievement: the mediating role of teaching methods
Authors: Zhang Dongmin , Fang Zihui , Liao Min
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Educational accountability and student achievement polarization, which result in high dropout rates, pose significant challenges and pressures on teachers' pedagogical leadership. Whether pedagogical leadership, which originates in the Western educational environment, can significantly improve student achievement in Chinese high schools remains unclear. This concept has not yet been fully explored in the Chinese educational environment, and its direct impact on student achievement and the mediating role of English teaching methods remain to be investigated. However, existing research has concentrated on the effectiveness of principals' pedagogical leadership, with variations in teachers' pedagogical leadership practices. Many reform measures have been implemented in China to improve student achievement, but past educational practices have analyzed the impact on student achievement from a single instructional leadership, school capital or teaching method perspective. Furthermore, there is a lack of multidimensional and systematic assessments of the direct effects of teacher pedagogical leadership on student achievement and the mediating effects of English teaching methods.

Design/methodology/approach

To address this gap, this study analyzed the impact of teachers' pedagogical leadership on student achievement and the mediating effect of English teaching methods with the support of the theory of action for teacher leadership, specifically using pedagogical leadership and English teaching methods models.This study conducted a questionnaire survey of 968 participants in Taian City, China, and quantitatively analyzed the data using SmartPLS structural equation modeling (SEM).

Findings

This study revealed that pedagogical leadership has a positive direct effect on student achievement. Meanwhile, among the four mediating factors, the Direct Method, Audio-Lingual Method and Communicative Language Teaching had significant mediating effects.

Originality/value

This study shows that the effective use of academic and professional capital allocation in pedagogical leadership, combined with effective measures of using multiple effective English teaching methods, helps achieve high-quality student achievement.
Uncovering relationships between formal and informal learning: unveiling the mediating role of basic need satisfaction and challenge-seeking behavior
Authors: Huang Xianhan , Zhang Shiyu , Sun Mingyao , Kouhsari Masoumeh , Wang Dongsheng
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Most of the current literature investigates workplace-based formal and informal learning separately; thus, the relationship between these two types of learning remains unclear. This study aims to fill this research gap, drawing on self-determination theory to bridge teachers’ formal and informal learning and uncover the relationship between the two.

Design/methodology/approach

The participants of the study are 1,886 primary and secondary in-service teachers in China. Structural equation modeling and bootstrapping are used to test the proposed model.

Findings

The study reveals complicated influencing mechanisms of formal learning on different types of informal learning among in-service teachers. Teachers’ basic psychological needs, satisfaction and challenge-seeking behavior are found to play crucial mediating roles in this process.

Practical implications

First, this study suggests that different configurations of intervention strategies should be formulated depending on the foci for improving teachers’ learning. Second, this study indicates that only highlighting the importance of reflection, which is the approach currently used, is not sufficient to improve teachers’ daily reflective practice. Third, there is an urgent need to design training programs to improve teachers’ abilities to purposefully expand their job boundaries, which could not only benefit teachers’ performance but also contribute to school improvement. For policymakers and school principals, we suggest that more attention be given to the satisfaction of teachers’ basic needs.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature on workplace learning by connecting formal and informal learning and elucidating how teachers’ reported formal learning influences their informal learning activities via varied paths. The findings have implications for continuous professional development policy and training programs in the workplace.
The Current Role of Analytical Psychology in Maintaining Fictitious Boundaries that are Promoted through the Race Lie: A call to dismantle the virtual wall that exists through attitudes of white supremacy1
Authors: Carter Christopher Jerome
Published: September 2024

In 1928, the American Anthropological Association declared that “Anthropology provided no scientific basis for discrimination against any people on the ground of racial inferiority, religious affiliation, or linguistic heritage” (Guthrie, 1976/1998/2004, p. 30). In 1945, Jung denounced race theory as a pseudo‐science. In 1950, UNESCO released its statement denouncing race. Long discredited as scientifically invalid, the race concept still holds uncanny value and significance for Americans and Europeans. In effect, the concept seems to be mysteriously linked to the limited accessibility and the limited economic support that is allotted to people of colour, internationally. This paper will explore the global implications of Jung's expressed attitude towards people of colour prior to 1945, which I identify as an attitude of white supremacy, an attitude that stands in direct contrast to the analytical ethos, as expressed by the International Association for Analytical Psychology (IAAP). This attitude may promote the continuance of racialized beliefs and behaviours within the planning and provision of care to individuals in need of medical and mental health services. It is requested that a written acknowledgment of harm be added to the works of C. G. Jung.
Differences in Factors Associated With Preterm and Term Stillbirth: A Secondary Cohort Analysis of the DESiGN Trial
Authors: Winsloe Chivon , Elhindi James , Vieira Matias C. , Relph Sophie , Arcus Charles G. , Alagna Alessandro , Briley Annette , Johnson Mark , Page Louise M. , Shennan Andrew , Thilaganathan Baskaran , Marlow Neil , Lees Christoph , Lawlor Deborah A. , Khalil Asma , Sandall Jane , Copas Andrew , Pasupathy Dharmintra ,   the DESiGN Trial team
Published: September 2024

Objective

To identify whether maternal and pregnancy characteristics associated with stillbirth differ between preterm and term stillbirth.

Design

Secondary cohort analysis of the DESiGN RCT.

Setting

Thirteen UK maternity units.

Population

Singleton pregnant women and their babies.

Methods

Multiple logistic regression was used to assess whether the 12 factors explored were associated with stillbirth. Interaction tests assessed for a difference in these associations between the preterm and term periods.

Main Outcome Measure

Stillbirth stratified by preterm (<37+0 weeks') and term (37+0–42+6 weeks') births.

Results

A total of 195 344 pregnancies were included. Six hundred and sixty‐seven were stillborn (3.4 per 1000 births), of which 431 (65%) were preterm. Significant interactions were observed for maternal age, ethnicity, IMD, BMI, parity, smoking, PAPP‐A, gestational hypertension, pre‐eclampsia and gestational diabetes but not for chronic hypertension and pre‐existing diabetes. Stronger associations with term stillbirth were observed in women with obesity compared to BMI 18.5–24.9 kg/m2 (BMI 30.0–34.9 kg/m2 term adjusted OR 2.1 [95% CI 1.4–3.0] vs. preterm aOR 1.1 [0.8–1.7]; BMI ≥ 35.0 kg/m2 term aOR 2.2 [1.4–3.4] vs. preterm aOR 1.5 [1.2–1.8]; p‐interaction < 0.01), nulliparity compared to parity 1 (term aOR 1.7 [1.1–2.7] vs. preterm aOR 1.2 [0.9–1.6]; p‐interaction < 0.01) and Asian ethnicity compared with White (p‐interaction < 0.01). A weaker or lack of association with term, compared to preterm, stillbirth was observed for older maternal age, smoking and pre‐eclampsia.

Conclusion

Differences in association exist between mothers experiencing preterm and term stillbirth. These differences could contribute to design of timely surveillance and interventions to further mitigate the risk of stillbirth.
In vitro digestion and fermentation of the whole goji berry: Bioactive ingredients change and impacts on human gut microbiota
Authors: Wang Jinghan , Ren Yanming , Ye Xingqian , Zhang Huiling , Tian Jinhu
Published: September 2024

Goji berry (Lycium barbarum L.) is a nutrient‐rich fruit and has received enormous interest for its health benefits. The beneficial effects of goji berry are linked to the absorption of bioactive compounds within the gastrointestinal digestion process and colon fermentation. Nonetheless, how certain bioactive compounds were released, and metabolism changed of the consumption of whole goji berries were still unclear. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the digestion characteristics of key bioactive compounds in whole goji berries with an in vitro digestion model, and the effects of whole goji berries on the structure of gut microbiota were also investigated. Results showed that a significant release of carbohydrates during the digestion process, peaking within the first 15 min of the intestinal phase (421.4 ± 5.82 mg GE/g, dry weight, respectively), was observed, and the phenolic release reached the highest in the first 15 min of the gastric phase. Meanwhile, the bioaccessibilities of phenolic compounds and carbohydrates were determined to be 63.87% and 80.40%, respectively, after intestinal digestion. In addition, the undigested fractions of goji berries could be further fermented to produce short‐chain fatty acids, which decreased the colon pH value (from 7.38 to 6.71) as well as the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio. Moreover, the goji berries regulated the composition of gut microbiota by promoting beneficial bacteria such as Bacteroides, Parabacteroides, and Paraclostridium, whereas inhibiting the proliferation of harmful bacteria (e.g., Fusobacterium). Our results indicated that the goji berry exhibited significant bioactivity during the digestion and fermentation stage and might provide some new insights into the utilization of goji berries in healthy food processing.
The advantages and trends of lactic acid fermentation in the production of innovative fruit puree: Analysis with PROMETHEE and cluster
Authors: Ucak‐Ozkaya Gulsum
Published: September 2024

The goal of this study was to create a fermented probiotic fruit puree for lactose‐intolerant people, vegetarians, and infants over 6 months old. Fermented fruit purees were developed using apples, peaches, and bananas with lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains: Lactobacillus plantarum subsp. plantarum (S5), Lactobacillus fermentum strain w8 (S10), and Lactobacillus pentosus strain ml104 (S14). Different fruit puree formulations were produced using three strains, two inoculation ratios (4% and 5%), and two fermentation durations (24  and 48 h). The physicochemical parameters (pH, total soluble solids, and color), total phenols content (TPC), total antioxidant capacity, bacterial viability, volatile aroma profile (VAP), and individual phenolic compound profile of fruit puree fermented for both 24  and 48 h were compared with the unfermented (control) purees. The results of VAP were evaluated via PROMETHEE and cluster analysis. Time of fermentation and bacterial cultures at varied concentrations improved color values of samples (L*, a*, and b*) compared to controls. The level of bioactive compounds in several samples (S10 and S14) decreased after fermentation in contrast to S5 samples. The bacterial population in the samples ranged from ∼7.00 to 9.50 log CFU/g after 48‐h fermentation. The fruit puree samples exhibited the presence of two different phenolic compounds and a total of 17 distinct volatile aroma compounds. The control sample scored highest for aromatic components in PROMETHEE, while S14‐II was the most unique sample in cluster analysis. In conclusion, fermented probiotic fruit puree shown high promise as a carrier for live probiotics, and the fermentation process boosted the nutritional content of the fruit puree.
Toward “clean label” processed meat using starter culture and beetroot powder: A case‐study in restructured cooked ham
Authors: da Silva Elen Carla Alves , Ramalho Isabelly da Silva , Ribeiro Halley Dayane dos Santos , Ferreira Valquíria Cardoso da Silva , da Silva Filho José Narciso Francisco , de Santos Maria de Fátima Clementino dos , da Silva Fábio Anderson Pereira
Published: September 2024

This study evaluated the effects of the combination of beet powder, starter culture, and sodium erythorbate as a curing agent on the chemical and microbiological characteristics of restructured cooked ham during cold storage. Five treatments were developed: the positive control group (COP) with the addition of nitrite and sodium erythorbate, negative control treatment (CON) with the addition of sodium erythorbate; ham added with beet powder (AP), ham added with beet powder and starter culture (APC), ham added with beet powder, starter culture, and sodium erythorbate (APCE). The ham's curing properties and oxidative stability were analyzed for 30 days under refrigeration. The APCE treatment showed better conversion of nitrate to nitrite at time 0 (46.6 mg/kg). The COP sample showed higher residual nitrite content at time 0 (73.1 mg/kg) and nitrosohemochrome pigment (35.67 ppm). Combining beet powder with the commercial starter culture and sodium erythorbate in the formulation of restructured cooked hams positively affected the control of lipid and protein oxidation, making it an alternative to commercial sodium nitrite.

Practical Application

Beetroot and arugula powders are added to the restructured cooked ham to prepare a clean‐label meat product without sodium nitrite. The effects of starter culture and sodium erythorbate are also evaluated. .
Appendicitis links to the afterward subsequent psoriatic disease occurrence in Taiwan national health insurance research database: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Hsu Chung‐Yuan , Su Yu‐Jih , Lee Yung‐Heng , Chen Hsian‐Min , Lu Chih‐Cheng , Chen Hsin‐Hua
Published: September 2024

Objective

To investigate the psoriatic disease risk among patients with previous appendicitis.

Methods

This study was a nationwide population‐based case–control study about the association between the psoriatic disease risk among patients with a history of appendicitis in Taiwan. The study population consisted of newly diagnosed psoriatic disease with at least two outpatient visits, and the control group included those patients without psoriatic disease at the same index date. Patients with a previous diagnosis of appendicitis or who underwent appendectomy surgery prior to their psoriatic disease diagnosis were recorded. The odds ratio of psoriatic disease diagnosis in the two groups with and without a history of appendicitis were analyzed and compared.

Results

A total of 48 894 individuals diagnosed with psoriatic disease were matched with 292 656 controls by age and gender. Notably, the proportion of patients with a history of appendicitis or primary appendectomy was significantly elevated among those with psoriatic disease compared with the control cohort (both p < .05). On average, the occurrence of appendicitis preceded the index date by 3.3 ± 2.3 years. Multivariate analysis revealed a heightened incidence rate of psoriatic disease in patients previously diagnosed with appendicitis, periodontal disease, Charlson comorbidity index score (CCIS) ≧1, and ill‐defined intestinal infections. This association persisted after adjusting for confounding factors, such as periodontal disease, CCIS, Salmonella, and ill‐defined intestinal infections. The odds ratios for psoriatic disease in individuals with a history of appendicitis, periodontal disease, CCIS ≧1, and ill‐defined intestinal infections were 1.16, 1.008, 1.69, and 1.23, respectively, with corresponding 95% confidence intervals of 1.03–1.31, 1.05–1.11, 1.65–1.74, and 1.20–1.26. These findings underscore the independent association between appendicitis and subsequent development of psoriatic disease, even after adjusting for relevant comorbidities and potential confounders.

Conclusion

Our research illustrates that appendicitis is associated with an increased likelihood of developing a psoriatic disease, despite several limitations. These limitations encompass variables such as dietary and smoking habits, alongside other potential confounding factors that were not fully considered. Moreover, inherent biases in utilizing national health insurance data, such as the absence of laboratory information, as well as the constraints inherent in a retrospective study design, should be acknowledged.
Leader versus lagger: How the timing of financial reports affects audit quality and investment efficiency
Authors: Liu Nanqin , Zhang Xiao‐Jun
Published: September 2024

This paper examines how relative timing affects the quality of financial reports in a staggered reporting system in which some firms report earlier than others. We show that the audit quality of the leading firm exceeds that of the lagger. Investment efficiency also differs systematically across firms, depending on the relative reporting timing as well as the audit market structure. Audit regulations mitigate the misalignment of interests between auditors and investors but limit the effect of information spillovers. We characterize the socially optimal auditing standards and show how and why imposing minimum audit quality requirements complements and/or substitutes for adjusting auditors' legal liability. Overall, we show that a staggered reporting system dominates a simultaneous reporting system in enhancing audit quality and investment efficiency through regulation.
The impact of fiscal expenditure fluctuation on cost asymmetry: Evidence from China
Authors: Liao Jingwen , Yang Hao , Li Ziyang , Chen Yanjun
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the relationship between district government fiscal expenditure fluctuation and asymmetric cost behaviour in China. Using the unique manual data sets of Chinese A‐listed firms during the period 2003–2018, we find that cost stickiness is a pervasive phenomenon and that fiscal expenditure fluctuation positively affects cost stickiness. The results also demonstrate this effect is more pronounced when labour input is high and the size of the population is large. In addition, our further analysis indicates that higher social welfare incomes and the higher administrative level of a city can influence these results.
Interactions between host plant quality and non‐consumptive predator effects on oviposition and larval behaviour of Plutella xylostella (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae)
Authors: Kulkarni Sharavari , Evenden Maya
Published: September 2024

The presence of predators can induce non‐consumptive effects on prey that result in subsequent changes to prey behaviour and defence.

We investigate the interaction between top‐down non‐consumptive effects of various stages of the predator Coccinella septempunctata L.(Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) (larvae and adult) and bottom‐up effects of host nutrition on Plutella xylostella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae) oviposition and larval host choice. We also compare the effect of presence of intact predators, predators without mandibles, confined predators and a no predator control treatment on P. xylostella larval growth, survival and herbivory.

Host plant nutrition influenced the host choice of adult female P. xylostella; no interaction was observed between bottom‐up host plant nutrition and the presence of C. septempunctata adults or larvae on oviposition or larval host choice by P. xylostella.

Predator presence impacted larval feeding and weight gain. The presence of free‐moving C. septempunctata adults without mandibles that could not predate P. xylostella reduced mean leaf consumption by P. xylostella larvae to 1.88 ± 0.21 cm2 and reduced weight gain to 2.12 ± 0.16 mg. Despite differences in leaf damage and larval weight gain, survival remained consistent across the non‐consumptive treatments.

Intact C. septempunctata larvae reduced leaf damage and subsequent P. xylostella larval weight gain. The presence of larval predators across the non‐consumptive treatments, however, had no effect on feeding damage or weight gain.

Results of our investigation indicate that C. septempunctata causes some non‐consumptive effects on P. xylostella that depend on predator life stage, level of confinement and prey life stage. It is likely that P. xylostella responds to multi‐modal cues in predator detection.
Perfusate hemoglobin during normothermic liver machine perfusion as biomarker of early allograft dysfunction: A pilot study
Authors: Maeda Akinori , Starkey Graham , Spano Sofia , Chaba Anis , Eastwood Glenn , Yoshino Osamu , Perini Marcos Vinicius , Fink Michael , Bellomo Rinaldo , Jones Robert
Published: September 2024

Background

Normothermic machine perfusion (NMP) aims to reduce ischemia–reperfusion injury in donor livers and its clinical manifestation, early allograft dysfunction (EAD) by maintaining perfusion and oxygenation. However, there is limited data on which NMP perfusate biomarkers might be associated with such EAD and the role of perfusate hemoglobin has not been assessed.

Methods

We performed a pilot retrospective analysis of adult donor livers undergoing NMP between 2020 and 2022 at our center. NMP was commenced at the recipient hospital after initial static cold storage. All NMP circuits were primed in the same manner according to the manufacturer's instructions. Livers were stratified by initial perfusate hemoglobin below (≤5.2 mmol/L) or above (>5.2 mmol/L) the median. The association between hemoglobin levels and EAD or recipient peak transaminase levels was assessed.

Results

Among 23 livers, eight were considered unsuitable for transplantation, leaving 15 livers for assessment. Higher initial hemoglobin was associated with a lower risk of EAD (0% vs. 55.6%, p = 0.04). Perfusate hemoglobin decreased after NMP initiation (p = 0.003) and negatively correlated with recipient peak transaminase levels (ALT: ρ = −0.72, p = 0.002; AST: ρ = −0.79, p < 0.001). Consistently, higher hemoglobin livers also demonstrated lower perfusate liver enzymes.

Conclusions

Perfusate hemoglobin levels decreased during NMP, and lower perfusate hemoglobin levels were associated with a higher incidence of EAD and higher levels of liver injury markers. Maintaining higher hemoglobin levels during NMP may help reduce ischemia–reperfusion injury and prevent or attenuate EAD. Larger prospective studies are needed to validate the findings of this pilot study.
Letter: Ulcerative proctitis—A step towards addressing the knowledge gap, and a call for greater detail, in trial data
Authors: Chetwood John David , Ding Nik Sheng
Published: September 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Ferreiro‐Iglesias et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18133 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18281
Letter: Enhancing gastric cancer prevention—The need for a comprehensive three‐tier emergency management strategy
Authors: Zhou Zhangbing , Wang Liu , Chen Yunfeng
Published: September 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Ligato et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17872 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18283
Letter: Ulcerative proctitis—A step towards addressing the knowledge gap, and a call for greater detail, in trial data—Authors' reply
Authors: Ferreiro‐Iglesias Rocío , Barreiro‐de Acosta Manuel
Published: September 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Ferreiro‐Iglesias et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18133 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18248
DCC in the cerebral cortex is required for cognitive functions in mouse
Authors: Hu Yun‐Qing , Liu Wei‐Tang , Wu Yong , Hu Zhi‐Bin , Tao Yun‐Chao , Zhang Qiong , Chen Jia‐Yin , Li Ming , Hu Ling , Ding Yu‐Qiang
Published: September 2024

Schizophrenia (SZ) is a highly heritable mental disorder, and genome‐wide association studies have identified the association between deleted in colorectal cancer (DCC) and SZ. Previous study has shown a lowered expression of DCC in the cerebral cortex of SZ patient. In this study, we identified novel single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of DCC statistically correlated with SZ. Based on these, we generated DCC conditional knockout (CKO) mice and explored behavioral phenotypes in these mice. We observed that deletion of DCC in cortical layer VI but not layer V led to deficits in fear and spatial memory, as well as defective sensorimotor gating revealed by the prepulse inhibition test (PPI). Critically, the defective sensorimotor gating could be restored by olanzapine, an antipsychotic drug. Furthermore, we found that the levels of p‐AKT and p‐GSK3α/β were decreased, which was responsible for impaired PPI in the DCC‐deficient mice. Finally, the DCC‐deficient mice also displayed reduced spine density of pyramidal neurons and disturbed delta‐oscillations. Our data, for the first time, identified and explored downstream substrates and signaling pathway of DCC which supports the hypothesis that DCC is a SZ‐related risky gene and when defective, may promote SZ‐like pathogenesis and behavioral phenotypes in mice.
Translational modelling to predict human pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of a Bruton's tyrosine kinase‐targeted protein degrader BGB‐16673
Authors: Wu Yue , Meibohm Bernd , Zhang Taichang , Hou Xinfeng , Wang Haitao , Sun Xiaona , Jiang Ming , Zhang Bo , Zhang Wenjing , Liu Ye , Jin Wei , Wang Fan
Published: September 2024

Background and Purpose

Bifunctional small molecule degraders, which link the target protein with E3 ubiquitin ligase, could lead to the efficient degradation of the target protein. BGB‐16673 is a Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) degrader. A translational PK/PD modelling approach was used to predict the human BTK degradation of BGB‐16673 from preclinical in vitro and in vivo data.

Experimental Approach

A simplified mechanistic PK/PD model was used to establish the correlation between the in vitro and in vivo BTK degradation by BGB‐16673 in a mouse model. Human and mouse species differences were compared using the parameters generated from in vitro human or mouse blood, and human or mouse serum spiked TMD‐8 cells. Human PD was then predicted using the simplified mechanistic PK/PD model.

Key Results

BGB‐16673 showed potent BTK degradation in mouse whole blood, human whole blood, and TMD‐8 tumour cells in vitro. Furthermore, BGB‐16673 showed BTK degradation in a murine TMD‐8 xenograft model in vivo. The PK/PD model predicted human PD and the observed BTK degradation in clinical studies both showed robust BTK degradation in blood and tumour at clinical dose range.

Conclusion and Implications

The presented simplified mechanistic model with reduced number of model parameters is practically easier to be applied to research projects compared with the full mechanistic model. It can be used as a tool to better understand the PK/PD behaviour for targeted protein degraders and increase the confidence when moving to the clinical stage.
Arctigenin Modulates Adipogenic‐Osteogenic Balance in the Bone Marrow Microenvironment of Ovariectomized Rats via the MEK1/PPARγ/Wnt/β‐Catenin Pathway
Authors: Li Hongbo , Liao Xingen , Lan Min , He Jianying , Gao Jingping , Fan Zhiqiang , Huang Jiayu , Wu Xin , Chen Jiaxin , Sun Guicai
Published: September 2024

Arctigenin (Ar) is a promising therapeutic candidate for postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP). This study explores its mechanism by examining its effects on adipogenesis and osteogenesis in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. In vitro, Ar effectively suppressed the adipogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) from OVX rats, reducing lipid droplet formation and downregulating proteins associated with lipid synthesis. In vivo, Ar treatment significantly reduced bone loss, inhibited adipocyte development, improved lipid metabolism, and promoted bone formation in OVX rats. Mechanistically, Ar inhibited the phosphorylation of Mitogen‐Activated Protein Kinase 1 (MEK1), downregulated Peroxisome Proliferator‐Activated Receptor gamma (PPARγ), promoted the accumulation of β‐catenin in the nucleus, and prevented the direct binding of PPARγ to β‐catenin in BMSCs. This regulation of the PPARγ/Wnt signaling axis underlies its dual role in inhibiting adipogenesis and promoting osteogenesis. Notably, co‐treatment with rosiglitazone (RGZ) reversed the effects of Ar on adipogenesis and osteogenesis without affecting MEK1 inhibition. These findings offer valuable insights into arctigenin's potential as a therapeutic strategy for PMOP by modulating MEK1 signaling and regulating the PPARγ/Wnt axis.
Representations of ‘risky’ drinking during pregnancy on Mumsnet: A discourse analysis
Authors: Schölin Lisa , Arkell Rachel
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Online forums provide an environment for peer discussions to anonymously share experiences about sensitive topics. In this article we explore discussions about alcohol use during pregnancy, including representations of ‘appropriate’ behaviour and risks, in relation to alcohol use.

Methods

We sampled Mumsnet posts from 2016 to 2021 and analysed these using a two‐staged approach: describing the content of original posts and employing discourse analysis on the entire thread which focused on unpacking the significance, activity and identity within the discourse.

Results

Seventy‐three threads with 1554 replies analysed. Users engaged with different sources of evidence and mentioned guidelines and scientific sources, though most commonly provided, requested and appreciated anecdotal information. Risk was discussed in several ways but all users engaged with ‘othering’ drinking they perceived as risky. Only a few prescribed risks to any and all levels of drinking. There was a lack of knowledge around drinking while trying to conceive and early pregnancy. Expectations and norms of behaviour during pregnancy engaged in a ‘good motherhood’ discourse. Users positioned their drinking according to perceived norms through language choices; when not pregnant (or unknowingly pregnant) being ‘plastered’ was justified but when pregnant drinking only ‘sips’ or ‘tiny’ quantities of alcohol was considered appropriate.

Discussion and Conclusions

Forum users demonstrated a desire to adhere to ‘responsible motherhood’, which did not equate to abstinence if consumption was perceived as acceptable and justified. Future research should explore information needs and effective approaches to health communication for pregnant women or those planning pregnancy.
Pharmacological and non‐pharmacological treatments in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: an Italian real‐world data study
Authors: Paoletti Olga , Hyeraci Giulia , Finochietti Marco , Celani Maria Grazia , Bacigalupo Ilaria , Lombardi Niccolò , Crescioli Giada , Tuccori Marco , Cascini Silvia , Gini Rosa , Addis Antonio , Kirchmayer Ursula ,   CAESAR study group
Published: September 2024

Background and purpose

The purpose was to describe the use patterns of pharmacological and non‐pharmacological therapies and investigate potential determinants of riluzole use in patients newly diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in three Italian regions.

Methods

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients were selected from administrative healthcare databases of Latium, Tuscany and Umbria from 1 January 2014 to 31 December 2019 based on hospital‐ and disease‐specific co‐payment exemption data. The first trace of ALS was considered the index date. Incident ALS cases were those without a trace of ALS during the 3‐year look back. Patients were described in terms of demographics, clinical characteristics and drug use at baseline, and were classified into four categories based on riluzole use in the 2 years before and 1 year after the index date: prevalent, incident, former users and non‐users. Use of symptomatic pharmacological and non‐pharmacological therapies was described across these categories during 12 months after the index date. Determinants of riluzole use were also investigated.

Results and conclusions

A total of 1636 ALS incident subjects were detected in the three regions, mainly aged 65–74 years. Patients were generally fragile with a high prevalence of comorbidities at baseline. Riluzole was used by 27.4% of the overall study cohort at baseline and steeply increased in the first year after the index date differently between regions (Latium 61.2%, Tuscany 85.0%, Umbria 76.5%), with about half of the subjects being incident users. In the 12 months after the index date, also symptomatic therapies increased, in riluzole users and non‐users. Determinants analysis showed that higher patient severity and complexity were associated with a lower likelihood of being treated with riluzole.