bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effective High-Accuracy Prediction of Protein Structures from Easily Obtainable Artificial Homologous Sequences by Structure-Stability-Based Selection
Authors: Tang Jinle , Zhang Zhe , Zhan Jian , Zhou Yaoqi
Published: November 2023

High-resolution protein structure determination by experimental techniques is notoriously costly and labor intensive. This problem is mostly solved with arrival of deep-learning-based computational prediction by AlphaFold2 but only for those proteins with enough naturally occurring homologous sequences. Here, we attempt to close the remaining gap by employing artificially generated, structure-stability-selected homologous sequences as an input for AlphaFold2. We showed that only one round of selection of deeply mutated sequences of a few mutations is sufficient to bring the accuracy of predicted structures to better than 2 Å RMSD from their respective native structures for four of the five proteins experimented. The performance for three out of five proteins is even better than AlphaFold2 with naturally occurring sequences. The only protein with predicted structure of >2 Å (at 2.92 Å) RMSD is due to a fully exposed (i.e., likely flexible) β-hairpin. The result supports a future of determining protein structures at low cost and fast turnaround by integrating simple molecular biology experiments (deep mutational scanning andin vivoorin vitroselection) with high-throughput sequencing. The technique proposed here can be further extended to predict structures of protein complexes as well as proteins with posttranslational modifications.
Charm is a flexible pipeline to simulate chromosomal rearrangements on Hi-C-like data
Authors: Nuriddinov M.A. , Belokopytova P.S. , Fishman V.S.
Published: November 2023

Identifying structural variants (SVs) remains a pivotal challenge within genomic studies. The recent advent of chromosome conformation capture (3C) techniques has emerged as a promising avenue for the accurate identification of SVs. However, development and validation of computational methods leveraging 3C data necessitate comprehensive datasets of well-characterized chromosomal rearrangements, which are presently lacking. In this study, we introduce Charm (https://zenodo.org/doi/10.5281/zenodo.10653353): a robust computational framework tailored for Hi-C data simulation. Our findings demonstrate Charm’s efficacy in benchmarking both novel and established tools for SV detection. Additionally, we furnish an extensive dataset of simulated Hi-C maps, paving the way for subsequent benchmarking endeavors.
Genome sequence and cell biological toolbox of the highly regenerative, coenocytic green feather algaBryopsis
Authors: Ochiai Kanta K. , Hanawa Daiki , Ogawa Harumi A. , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Uesaka Kazuma , Edzuka Tomoya , Shirae-Kurabayashi Maki , Toyoda Atsushi , Itoh Takehiko , Goshima Gohta
Published: November 2023

Green feather algae (Bryopsidales) undergo a unique life cycle in which a single cell repeatedly executes nuclear division without cytokinesis, resulting in the development of a thallus (> 100 mm) with characteristic morphology called coenocyte.Bryopsisis a representative coenocytic alga that has exceptionally high regeneration ability: extruded cytoplasm aggregates rapidly in seawater, leading to the formation of protoplasts. However, the genetic basis of the unique cell biology ofBryopsisremains poorly understood. Here, we present a high-quality assembly and annotation of the nuclear genome ofBryopsissp. (90.7 Mbp, 27 contigs, N50 = 6.7 Mbp, 14,034 protein-coding genes). Comparative genomic analyses indicate that the genes encoding BPL-1/Bryohealin, the aggregation-promoting lectin, are heavily duplicated inBryopsis, whereas homologous genes are absent in other Ulvophycean algae, suggesting the basis of regeneration capability ofBryopsis.Bryopsissp. possesses >30 kinesins but only a single myosin, which differs from other green algae that have multiple types of myosin genes. Consistent with this biased motor toolkit, we observed that the bidirectional motility of chloroplasts in the cytoplasm was dependent on microtubules but not actin inBryopsissp. Unexpectedly, most genes required for cytokinesis in plants are present inBryopsis, including those in the SNARE or kinesin superfamily. Nevertheless, a kinesin crucial for cytokinesis initiation in plants (NACK/Kinesin-7II) is hardly expressed in the coenocytic part of the thallus, possibly underlying the lack of cytokinesis in this portion. The present genome sequence lays the foundation for experimental biology in coenocytic macroalgae.

Significance statement

The exceptionally coenocytic body and remarkable regeneration ability ofBryopsishave attracted biologists for years. However, molecular biological tools remain underdeveloped, partly due to the lack of genome information. Here, we report high-quality assembly and annotation of the genome, providing a crucial resource for experimental biology and genomics studies ofBryopsis. Furthermore, comparative genomic analysis reveals a unique gene repertoire that possibly underlies the highly regenerative coenocytic body.
Immuno-informatics Study Identifies Conserved T Cell Epitopes in Non-structural Proteins of Bluetongue Virus Serotypes: Formulation of Computationally Optimized Next-Generation Broad-spectrum Multiepitope Vaccine
Authors: Kolla Harish Babu , Dutt Mansi , Kumar Anuj , Nanjunadappa Roopa Hebbandi , Karakach Tobias , Singh Karam Pal , Kelvin David , Clement Mertens Peter Paul , Umeshappa Channakeshava Sokke
Published: November 2023

Bluetongue (BT) is a significant arboviral disease affecting sheep, cattle, goats, and wild ruminants, posing serious economic challenges to livestock industry. Control efforts have been hampered by the existence of over 32 distinct BT virus (BTV) serotypes and the absence of broad-spectrum vaccines. Some key non-structural proteins of BTV, including NS1, NS2, and NS3, exhibit notable amino acid sequence conservation. Our findings reveal that mouse MHC class I (MHC-I) CD8+ T cell epitopes are highly conserved in NS1 and NS3, while MHC-II epitopes are prevalent in all the three non-structural NS 1-3 proteins. Similarly, both class I and II Bovine Leukocyte antigen-restricted CD8+ and CD4+ T cell epitopes are conserved within NS1, NS2, and NS3 proteins. To constructin silicobroad-spectrum vaccine, we subsequently screened these conserved epitopes based on antigenicity, allergenicity, toxicity, and solubility. Modeling and Refinement of the 3D structure models of vaccine constructs were achieved using protein modeling web servers. Our analysis revealed promising epitopes that exhibit strong binding affinities with low energies against two TLR receptors (TLR3 and TLR4). To ensure atomic-level stability, we evaluated the docking complexes of epitopes and receptors through all-atom molecular dynamics simulations (MDS). Encouragingly, our 100 nanoseconds MDS showed stable complexes with minimal RMSF values. Our study offers valuable insights into these conserved T cell epitopes as promising candidates for a broad-spectrum BT vaccine. We therefore encourage for their evaluation in animal models and natural hosts to assess their immunogenicity, safety, and efficacy for field use in the livestock.
Chronic nicotine exposure is associated with electrophysiological and sympathetic remodeling in the intact rabbit heart
Authors: Guevara Amanda , Smith Charlotte E.R. , Caldwell Jessica L. , Ngo Lena , Mott Lilian R. , Lee I-Ju , Tapa inivas , Wang Zhen , Wang Lianguo , Woodward William R. , Ng G. Andre , Habecker Beth A. , Ripplinger Crystal M.
Published: November 2023

Nicotine is the primary addictive component in tobacco products. Through its actions on the heart and autonomic nervous system, nicotine exposure is associated with electrophysiological changes and increased arrhythmia susceptibility. However, the underlying mechanisms are unclear. To address this, we treated rabbits with transdermal nicotine (NIC, 21 mg/day) or control (CT) patches for 28 days prior to performing dual optical mapping of transmembrane potential (RH237) and intracellular Ca2+(Rhod-2 AM) in isolated hearts with intact sympathetic innervation. Sympathetic nerve stimulation (SNS) was performed at the 1st– 3rdthoracic vertebrae, and β-adrenergic responsiveness was additionally evaluated as changes in heart rate (HR) following norepinephrine (NE) perfusion. Baselineex vivoHR and SNS stimulation threshold were increased in NIC vs. CT (P= 0.004 andP= 0.003 respectively). Action potential duration alternans emerged at longer pacing cycle lengths (PCL) in NIC vs. CT at baseline (P= 0.002) and during SNS (P= 0.0003), with similar results obtained for Ca2+transient alternans. SNS reduced the PCL at which alternans emerged in CT but not NIC hearts. NIC exposed hearts also tended to have slower and reduced HR responses to NE perfusion. While fibrosis was unaltered, NIC hearts had lower sympathetic nerve density (P= 0.03) but no difference in NE content vs. CT. These results suggest both sympathetic hypo-innervation of the myocardium and diminished β-adrenergic responsiveness with NIC. This autonomic remodeling may underlie the increased risk of arrhythmias associated with nicotine exposure, which may be further exacerbated with continued long-term usage.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY

Here we show that chronic nicotine exposure was associated with increased heart rate, lower threshold for alternans and reduced sympathetic electrophysiological responses in the intact rabbit heart. We suggest that this was due to the sympathetic hypo-innervation of the myocardium and diminished β- adrenergic responsiveness observed following nicotine treatment. Though these differences did not result in increased arrhythmia propensity in our study, we hypothesize that prolonged nicotine exposure may exacerbate this pro-arrhythmic remodeling.
NanoLocz: Image analysis platform for AFM, high-speed AFM and localization AFM
Authors: Heath George R , Micklethwaite Emily , Storer Tabitha
Published: November 2023

NanoLocz is an open-source computer program designed for high-throughput automatic processing and single-particle analysis of Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) image data. High-Speed AFM and Localization AFM (LAFM) enable the study of single molecules with increasingly higher spatiotemporal resolution. However, efficient and rapid analysis of the images and movies produced by these techniques can be challenging, often requiring the use of multiple image processing software applications and scripts. Here, we introduce NanoLocz, an AFM and high-speed AFM analysis program that facilitates various single-particle analysis workflows through a simple, interactive interface. Workflows include but are not limited to: single-particle tracking, single-particle topographic feature analysis, single-molecule LAFM, time-resolved LAFM, and simulation LAFM. The source code and installation instructions for NanoLocz are available athttps://github.com/George-R-Heath/NanoLocz.
Taxometer: Improving taxonomic classification of metagenomics contigs
Authors: Kutuzova Svetlana , Nielsen Mads , Piera Pau , Nybo Nissen Jakob , Rasmussen Simon
Published: November 2023

For taxonomy based classification of metagenomics assembled contigs, current methods use sequence similarity to identify their most likely taxonomy. However, in the related field of metagenomics binning contigs are routinely clustered using information from both the contig sequences and their abundance. We introduce Taxometer, a neural network based method that improves the annotations and estimates the quality of any taxonomic classifier by combining contig abundance profiles and tetra-nucleotide frequencies. When applied to five short-read CAMI2 datasets, it increased the average share of correct species-level contig annotations of the MMSeqs2 tool from 66.6% to 86.2% and reduced the share of wrong species-level annotations in the CAMI2 Rhizosphere dataset two-fold on average for Metabuli, Centrifuge, and Kraken2. Finally, we applied Taxometer to two complex long-read metagenomics data sets for benchmarking taxonomic classifiers. Taxometer is available as open-source software and can enhance any taxonomic annotation of metagenomic contigs.
Genomic sequencing should extend to diverse priority pathogens for effective study and surveillance of antimicrobial resistance: a systematic review of whole-genome sequencing studies from India
Authors: Gheewalla Nazneen , Jagannadham Jaisri , Kutum Rintu , Karve Shraddha
Published: November 2023

Background

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a public health emergency in many low and middle-income countries, including India. To effectively tackle AMR, we need rapid diagnostics, effective surveillance and new antimicrobial drugs. Whole-genome sequencing of pathogens is the first definite step towards achieving these goals.

Methods

In this work, we review all the studies published till date that report whole-genome sequences of select priority AMR pathogens from India. We searched PubMed and Web of Science databases for the studies that involved whole-genome sequencing of AMR priority pathogens from India. For the top two highly sequenced pathogens,S. typhiandK. pneumoniae, we performed phylogenetic analyses to understand the geo-climatic distribution of genetically diverse strains.

Results

Our search reveals 94 studies that report 2547 unique whole-genome sequences. We find that most sequences are limited to select priority pathogens isolated from a couple of geo-climatic zones of India. Our phylogenetic analyses show that available data does not indicate systematic differences between the genomes of isolates from different geo-climatic zones. Our search also reveals complete absence of travel-related studies tracking possible movement of AMR pathogens within country. Lastly, we find very few studies that sequence AMR pathogens isolated from food, soil or other environments.

Conclusion

Together, these observations suggest that lndia should prioritize sequencing of diverse AMR pathogens from clinics as well as from environments and travellers rather than extending the geo-climatic range of already-sequenced pathogens. Our recommendations can be potentially valuable for other low and middle-income countries with limited resources, high prevalence of AMR and diverse geo-climatic conditions.
A fungal endophyte induces local cell-wall mediated resistance in wheat roots against take-all disease
Authors: Chancellor Tania , Smith Daniel P. , Chen Wanxin , Clark Suzanne J. , Venter Eudri , Halsey Kirstie , Carrera Esther , McMillan Vanessa , Canning Gail , Armer Victoria , Hammond-Kosack Kim E. , Palma-Guerrero Javier
Published: November 2023

Take-all disease, caused by the ascomycete fungusGaeumannomyces tritici, is one of the most important root diseases of wheat worldwide. The fungus invades the roots and destroys the vascular tissue, hindering the uptake of water and nutrients. Closely related non-pathogenic species in theMagnaporthaceaefamily, such asGaeumannomyces hyphopodioides, occur naturally in arable and grassland soils and have previously been reported to reduce take-all disease in field studies. However, the mechanism of take-all protection has remained unknown. Here, we characterise the root infection biologies ofG. triticiandG. hyphopodioidesin wheat. We investigate the ultrastructure of previously described “subepidermal vesicles” (SEVs), produced in wheat roots by non-pathogenicG. hyphopodioides,but not by pathogenicG. tritici.We show thatG. hyphopodioidesSEVs share key characteristics of fungal resting structures; containing a greater number of putative lipid bodies and a significantly thickened cell wall compared to infection hyphae. We demonstrate that take-all control is achieved via local but not systemic host changes in response to priorG. hyphopodioidesroot colonisation. A time-course wheat RNA sequencing analysis revealed extensive transcriptional reprogramming inG. hyphopodioidescolonised tissues, characterised by a striking downregulation of key cell-wall related genes, including cellulose synthase (CESA), and xyloglucan endotransglucosylase/hydrolase (XTH) genes. In the absence of take-all resistant wheat cultivars or non-virulentG. triticistrains, studying closely related non-pathogenicG. hyphopodioidesprovides a much-needed avenue to elucidate take-all resistance mechanisms in wheat.
Biocompatibility characterisation of CMOS-based Lab-on-Chip electrochemical sensors for in vitro cancer cell culture applications
Authors: Beykou Melina , Bousgouni Vicky , Moser Nicolas , Georgiou Pantelis , Bakal Chris
Published: November 2023

Lab-on-Chip electrochemical sensors, such as Ion-Sensitive Field-Effect Transistors (ISFETs), are being developed for use in point-of-care diagnostics, such as pH detection of tumour microenvironments, due to their integration with standard Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor technology. With this approach, the passivation of the CMOS process is used as a sensing layer to minimise post-processing, and Silicon Nitride (Si3N4) is the most common material at the microchip surface. ISFETs have the potential to be used for cell-based assays however, there is a poor understanding of the biocompatibility of microchip surfaces. Here, we quantitatively evaluated cell adhesion, morphogenesis, proliferation and mechano-responsiveness of both normal and cancer cells cultured on a Si3N4, sensor surface. We demonstrate that both normal and cancer cell adhesion decreased on Si3N4. Activation of the mechano-responsive transcription regulators, YAP/TAZ, are significantly decreased in cancer cells on Si3N4in comparison to standard cell culture plastic, whilst proliferation marker, Ki67, expression markedly increased. Non-tumorigenic cells on chip showed less sensitivity to culture on Si3N4than cancer cells. Treatment with extracellular matrix components increased cell adhesion in normal and cancer cell cultures, surpassing the adhesiveness of plastic alone. Moreover, poly-l-ornithine and laminin treatment restored YAP/TAZ levels in both non-tumorigenic and cancer cells to levels comparable to those observed on plastic. Thus, engineering the electrochemical sensor surface with treatments will provide a more physiologically relevant environment for future cell-based assay development on chip.
Algorithm for spin symmetry operation search
Authors: Shinohara Kohei , Togo Atsushi , Watanabe Hikaru , Nomoto Takuya , Tanaka Isao , Arita Ryotaro
Published: November 2023

A spin space group provides a suitable way of fully exploiting the symmetry of a spin arrangement with a negligible spin–orbit coupling. There has been a growing interest in applying spin symmetry analysis with the spin space group in the field of magnetism. However, there is no established algorithm to search for spin symmetry operations of the spin space group. This paper presents an exhaustive algorithm for determining the spin symmetry operations of commensurate spin arrangements. The present algorithm searches for spin symmetry operations from the symmetry operations of a corresponding nonmagnetic crystal structure and determines their spin-rotation parts by solving a Procrustes problem. An implementation is distributed under a permissive free software license in spinspg Version 0.1.1, available at https://github.com/spglib/spinspg.
Stochastic redesign of mini UAV wing for maximizing autonomous flight performance
Authors: Çoban Sezer
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this research paper is to recover the autonomous flight performance of a mini unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) via stochastically optimizing the wing over certain parameters (i.e. wing taper ratio and wing aspect ratio) while there are lower and upper constraints on these redesign parameters.

Design/methodology/approach

A mini UAV is produced in the Iskenderun Technical University (ISTE) Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Laboratory. Its complete wing can vary passively before the flight with respect to the result of the stochastic redesign of the wing while maximizing autonomous flight performance. Flight control system (FCS) parameters (i.e. gains of longitudinal and lateral proportional-integral-derivative controllers) and wing redesign parameters mentioned before are simultaneously designed to maximize autonomous flight performance index using a certain stochastic optimization strategy named as simultaneous perturbation stochastic approximation (SPSA). Found results are used while composing UAV flight simulations.

Findings

Using stochastic redesign of mini UAV and simultaneously designing mini ISTE UAV over previously mentioned wing parameters and FCS, it obtained a maximum UAV autonomous flight performance.

Research limitations/implications

Permission of the directorate general of civil aviation in the Republic of Türkiye is essential for real-time UAV autonomous flights.

Practical implications

Stochastic redesign of mini UAV and simultaneously designing mini ISTE UAV wing parameters and FCS approach is very useful for improving any mini UAV autonomous flight performance cost index.

Social implications

Stochastic redesign of mini UAV and simultaneously designing mini ISTE UAV wing parameters and FCS approach succeeds confidence, highly improved autonomous flight performance cost index and easy service demands of mini UAV operators.

Originality/value

Creating a new approach to recover autonomous flight performance cost index (e.g. satisfying less settling time and less rise time, less overshoot during flight trajectory tracking) of a mini UAV and composing a novel procedure performing simultaneous mini UAV having passively morphing wing over certain parameters while there are upper and lower constraints and FCS design idea.
Predicting stock market crashes on the African stock markets: evidence from log-periodic power law model
Authors: Ben Yaala Sirine , Henchiri Jamel Eddine
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to predict stock market crashes identified by the CMAX approach (current index level relative to historical maximum) during periods of global and local events, namely the subprime crisis of 2008, the political and social instability of 2011 and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

Over the period 2004–2020, a log-periodic power law model (LPPL) has been employed which describes the price dynamics preceding the beginning dates of the crisis. In order to adjust the LPPL model, the Global Search algorithm was developed using the “fmincon” function.

Findings

By minimizing the sum of square errors between the observed logarithmic indices and the LPPL predicted values, the authors find that the estimated parameters satisfy all the constraints imposed in the literature. Moreover, the adjustment line of the LPPL models to the logarithms of the indices closely corresponds to the observed trend of the logarithms of the indices, which was overall bullish before the crashes. The most predicted dates correspond to the start dates of the stock market crashes identified by the CMAX approach. Therefore, the forecasted stock market crashes are the results of the bursting of speculative bubbles and, consequently, of the price deviation from their fundamental values.

Practical implications

The adoption of the LPPL model might be very beneficial for financial market participants in reducing their financial crash risk exposure and managing their equity portfolio risk.

Originality/value

This study differs from previous research in several ways. First of all, to the best of the authors' knowledge, the authors' paper is among the first to show stock market crises detection and prediction, specifically in African countries, since they generate recessionary economic and social dynamics on a large extent and on multiple regional and global scales. Second, in this manuscript, the authors employ the LPPL model, which can expect the most probable day of the beginning of the crash by analyzing excessive stock price volatility.
Effect of place attachment on consumers' place preference and repatronage intention toward coffee shops
Authors: Wang Shih-Tse Edward , Lin Hung-Chou , Lee Yi-Ting
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Because of the slow market growth of and intense competition among coffee shops, increasing brand preference and patronage intention is crucial in the coffee shop industry. Although place attachment theory (PAT) and social identity theory (SIT) stipulate that place attachment and social identity are key constructs of revisit intention, no studies have yet integrated the dimensions of SIT into PAT to predict place preference (PP) and repatronage intention (RI). In this study, the authors aimed to develop a theoretical model grounded in PAT and SIT to predict PP and RI.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 648 coffee shop customers participated in an online survey, and their data were analyzed through structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results indicated that cognitive and affective place identity (PI) directly affected place dependence (PD) but did not directly affect PP. Cognitive PI also indirectly affected PD through affective PI. PD exerted a positive and significant effect on PP and thus affected RI.

Originality/value

These findings provide insights into the importance of cognitive and affective PI in shaping PD, PP and RI. From a place attachment perspective, the theoretical model enables coffee shop managers to cultivate strong PP to increase customer RI.
Does ebullient supervision foster thriving, social and creative employees? – it all starts at the top!
Authors: Mashkoor Maria , Muhammad Lakhi
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the impact of ebullient supervision on thriving at work, and relational social capital to stimulate employee creativity in the hospitality industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a purposive sampling approach, data were collected from 391 subordinates and their immediate supervisors in the hospitality industry through a structured questionnaire. To analyze the data, partial least structural equation modeling approach was considered.

Findings

Results show that ebullient supervision is supportive in generating personal resources of thriving at work and relational social capital, which later shape employee creativity.

Practical implications

The empirical findings of this study provide valuable insights for managers in the hospitality industry for human resource development strategy formulation to stimulate creativity in the hospitality industry.

Originality/value

The findings of this study suggest a novel antecedent of ebullient supervision for stimulating creativity in the hospitality industry. Hence, the paper has implications for researchers, practitioners and students.
A meta-analysis of satisfaction in mobile banking: a contextual examination
Authors: Kumar Poonam , Chauhan Sumedha , Kumar Satish , Gupta Prashant
Published: November 2023

Purpose

In mobile banking (m-banking), understanding the factors contributing to customer satisfaction is crucial for bank managers to design effective strategies for enhancing the uptake of mobile banking services. This study assesses the relationships between quality, technology acceptance and credibility factors and behavioural outcomes (actual use, continuance intention and loyalty) and satisfaction with m-banking. It further investigates the moderating influence of economy type, innovation level, connectivity level and sample size on all these relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs a meta-analysis technique and reviews 54 published studies to investigate the antecedents and consequences of satisfaction with m-banking.

Findings

The study finds a significant relationship between satisfaction with m-banking and quality, technology acceptance and credibility factors and behavioural outcomes. It concludes that the moderating effect of economy type, innovation level, connectivity level and sample size partially moderate the majority of the hypothesized relationships.

Research limitations/implications

Drawing on a comprehensive literature review, this study presents a novel framework elucidating the antecedents and behavioural outcomes of satisfaction with mobile banking. It contributes to the literature by exploring the moderating effects of sample size and country context on the relationships between these factors, presenting important implications for future mobile banking research.

Practical implications

This study has practical implications for m-banking service providers, offering insights into the factors that drive user satisfaction with mobile banking and highlighting the need for tailored strategies in different country contexts.

Originality/value

This study examines the effects of factors leading to satisfaction and the subsequent outcomes within the context of m-banking. The findings offer fresh perspectives that can be valuable for managers and policymakers, enabling them to enhance customer satisfaction in the realm of m-banking.
Free apps and paid apps: monetization strategies for health apps in the Portuguese market
Authors: Lemos Natália , Machado Cândida Sofia , Cardoso Cláudia
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The rapid advancement of technology has transformed the health-care industry and enabled the emergence of m-Health solutions such as health apps. The viability and success of these apps depends on the definition of a monetization model appropriate to their specificities. In this sense, the purpose of this paper is to study the mechanisms of monetization of health apps, to stablish how alternative revenues determine if a health app is to be free or paid.

Design/methodology/approach

Probability models are used to identify the factors that explain if a health app is free or paid.

Findings

Results show that the presence of alternative monetization mechanisms negatively impacts the likelihood of a health app being paid for. The use of personal data to customize advertising (the monetization of “privacy capital”) or the inclusion of ads on the app are alternative means of monetization with potential to decrease the likelihood of a health app being paid for. The possibility of in-app purchases has a lower negative impact on the probability of a health app being paid for. The choice of platform to commercialize an app is also a strategic decision that influences the likelihood of an app being paid for.

Originality/value

This work stands out for bringing together the two largest platforms present in Portugal and for focusing on the perspective of revenue and monetization of health apps and not on the perspective of downloads.
A cross-country comparison of Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia golf tourism experience: a perceptual experience of Malaysian golfers
Authors: Mohd Ali Ahmad Johanif , Zahari Mohd Salehuddin Mohd , Bashir Muhammad A'rif Aizat , Hanafiah Mohd Hafiz
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This scholarly investigation explores the Malaysian golfers' experience in Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia golf courses. The study sheds light on the unique attributes of golf tourism in each country, including the courses, facilities, services and overall golfing experiences offered to golf tourists.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative data were procured through in-depth semi-structured interviews with a cohort of 13 Malaysian golfers.

Findings

The findings indicate that golfers' experiences are affected by the quality of service, facilities, price and course condition, ultimately contributing to their satisfaction level. The evidence suggests that Malaysian golfers are comparatively more satisfied with golf courses in Thailand and Indonesia than in Malaysia.

Originality/value

The study underscores the importance of golf course attributes in retaining existing golfers and enticing new ones. Besides, as comparative research on golf course attributes and destination preferences is scant, this study has far-reaching implications, empowering Malaysian golf course managers to augment the appeal and quality of their golf course destination to optimise the behavioural intentions of golf tourists.
Regulating informal housing for the Syrian reconstruction. Between urban renewal and upgrading
Authors: Porras-Gómez Antonio-Martín
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Informal housing stands out as a major challenge surrounding the massive reconstruction of Syrian cities, devastated by a bloody war and a terrible earthquake. The purpose of this article is to assess the adequacy of the Syrian Law to adequate provide a solution to this problem.

Design/methodology/approach

With the purpose of informing the question, this paper offers a legal-institutional analysis of the informal housing phenomenon and the corresponding regulatory responses in Syria. A literature review is conducted, and functional analysis of the legal texts and their effective implementation is provided.

Findings

First, informal housing in Syria has been fostered by the existence of an erratic regulation, particularly burdened by the incoherence of passing repressive provisions against informal housing while master plans were conspicuously absent or incomplete. Second, the regulatory policy seems to be leaning toward the urban renewal option, indicating a supply-oriented housing approach that may face serious challenges due to the scarcity of capital. In this context, regulation should not underestimate any policy tools at hand (renewal and upgrading; with the contribution of public, private and cooperative sectors).

Originality/value

Although there have been several studies on informal housing in Syria, none has taken a legal institutionalist approach. Furthermore, this study offers an up-to-date account of the problem, taking into account the problematic after the 2023 earthquake and the content of Law 2/2023.
Sustainability control systems in short-term operational and long-term strategic decision-making
Authors: Kuruppu Sanjaya C. , Milne Markus J. , Tilt Carol A.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to respond to calls for more research to understand how sustainability control systems (SCSs) feature (or do not feature) in short-term operational and long-term strategic decision-making.

Design/methodology/approach

An in-depth case study of a large multinational organisation undertaking several rounds of sustainability reporting is presented. Data collection was extensive including 26 semi-structured interviews with a range of employees from senior management to facility employees, access to confidential reports and internal documents and attendance of company meetings, including an external stakeholder engagement meeting and the attendance of the company’s annual environmental meeting. A descriptive, analytical and explanatory analysis is performed on the case context (Pfister et al., 2022).

Findings

Simon’s (1995) levers of control framework structures our discussion. The case company has sophisticated and formalised diagnostic controls and strong belief and boundary systems. Conventional management controls and SCSs are used in short-term operational decision-making, although differences between financial imperatives and other aspects such as environmental concerns are difficult to reconcile. SCSs also provided information to justify company actions in short-term decisions that impacted stakeholders. However, SCSs played a very limited role in the long-term strategic decision. Tensions between social, environmental and economic factors are more reconcilable in the long-term strategic decision, where holistic risks and opportunities need to be fully identified. External reporting is seen in a “constraining” light (Tessier and Otley, 2012), and intentionally de-coupled from SCSs.

Originality/value

This paper responds to recent calls for rich, holistic and contextually-grounded perspectives of sustainability processes at an extractives company. The study provides novel insight into how SCSs are used (or not used) in short-term or long-term decision-making and external reporting. The paper illustrates how a large company is responding to sustainability pressures within the unique contextual setting of New Zealand. The study outlines the imitations of existing practice and provides implications for how sustainability-based internal controls can be better embedded into organisations.
Early adopters of institutional creativity in integrated reporting
Authors: Agarwal Ruchi , Atif Muhammad
Published: November 2023

Purpose

In the last two decades, risk reporting has followed a normative and calculative culture rather than the “materiality” of data. Although integrated reporting (IR) has become flooded with extra information, it does not adequately disseminate material information to stakeholders. In addition, the poor tone from the top diminishes creativity. This study aims to investigate how companies creatively address issues of the materiality of risk information in IR and how IR can be aligned with enterprise risk management.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative research was conducted via interviews with 50 chief risk officers and senior management executives in the Indian and UK insurance markets.

Findings

Overall, five institutions were observed to exhibit elements of being early adopters of institutional creativity. This confirmed the present study’s theoretical contribution of five divergent types of early adopters. The motivations for creativity are reflected in the resources available to these institutions.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study provides a new insight into IR from internal mechanisms to deal with issue of materiality.
Effect on properties of geopolymer concrete by inclusion of recycled aggregate and methods to enhance the packing density of aggregate
Authors: Gupta Tanuja , Chakradhara Rao M.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to practically determine the optimum proportion of aggregates to attain the desired strength of geopolymer concrete (GPC) and then compare the results using established analytical particle packing methods. The investigation further aims to assess the influence of various amounts of recycled aggregate (RA) on properties of low-calcium fly ash-based GPC of grade M25.

Design/methodology/approach

Fine and coarse aggregates were blended in various proportions and the proportion yielding maximum packing density was selected as the optimum proportion and they were compared with analytical models, such as Modified Toufar Model (MTM) and J. D. Dewar Model. RAs for this study were produced in laboratory and they were used in various amounts, namely, 0%, 50% and 100%. 12M NaOH solution was mixed with Na2SiO3 in the ratio of 1:2. The curing of concrete was done at the temperatures of 60° and 90 °C for 24, 48 and 72h.

Findings

The experimentally obtained optimum proportion of coarse to fine aggregate was 60:40 for all amounts of RA. Meanwhile, MTM and Dewar Model resulted in coarse aggregate to fine aggregates as 40:60, 45:55, 55:45 and 55:45, 35:65, 60:40, respectively, for 0% 100% and 50% RAs. The compressive strength of GPC elevated with the increase in curing regime. In addition, the ultrasonic pulse velocity also displayed a similar trend as that of strength.

Originality/value

The GPC with 50% RAs may be considered for use, as it exhibited superior properties compared to GPC with 100% RAs and was comparable to GPC with natural aggregates. Furthermore, compressive strength is correlated with split tensile strength and ultrasonic pulse velocity.
Circ_0020123 promotes non‐small cell lung cancer progression via miR‐146a‐5p mediated regulation of EIF4G2 expression
Authors: Wei Zichun , Liu Jixian , Hui Gang , Luan Xinyu
Published: November 2023

Background

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been reported to be involved in the initiation and development of cancers. The aim of this study was to determine the role of a circRNA, circ_0020123, in the development of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

The expression of circ_0020123, microRNA‐146a‐5p (miR‐146a‐5p), and eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4 gamma 2 (EIF4G2) mRNA was detected by quantitative real‐time PCR (qPCR). Western blot was used to determine the protein levels of cyclin D1, Bax, MMP‐9, and EIF4G2. Cell proliferation was assessed by cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8) assay and colony formation assay. Flow cytometry assay was applied to determine cell cycle apoptosis. Cell migration and invasion were assessed using transwell assay. The potential relationship between miR‐146a‐5p and circ_0020123 or EIF4G2 was ascertained by dual‐luciferase reporter assay and RIP assay. The role of circ_0020123 in vivo was explored by xenograft assay.

Results

Circ_0020123 was upregulated in NSCLC, and circ_0020123 knockdown repressed proliferation, migration, and invasion of NSCLC cells. Circ_0020123 targeted miR‐146a‐5p, and miR‐146a‐5p inhibitor reversed the effects of circ_0020123 knockdown on NSCLC cells. In addition, miR‐146a‐5p suppressed cell proliferation, migration, and invasion by targeting EIF4G2. Moreover, the antitumor role of circ_0020123 knockdown was verified in vivo.

Conclusion

Knockdown of circ_0020123 inhibited NSCLC cell progression and tumor growth by targeting the miR‐146a‐5p/EIF4G2 axis.
The polymorphic variant of SerpinB3 (SerpinB3‐PD) is associated with faster cirrhosis decompensation
Authors: Martini Andrea , Turato Cristian , Cannito Stefania , Quarta Santina , Biasiolo Alessandra , Ruvoletto Mariagrazia , Novo Erica , Marafatto Filippo , Guerra Pietro , Tonon Marta , Clemente Nausicaa , Bocca Claudia , Piano Salvatore Silvio , Guido Maria , Gregori Dario , Parola Maurizio , Angeli Paolo , Pontisso Patrizia
Published: November 2023

Background

SerpinB3 is a cysteine protease inhibitor involved in liver disease progression due to its proinflammatory and profibrogenic properties. The polymorphic variant SerpinB3‐PD (SB3‐PD), presents a substitution in its reactive centre loop, determining the gain of function.

Aims

To disclose the clinical characteristics of a cohort of patients with cirrhosis in relation to the presence of SB3‐PD and to assess the effect of this genetic variant on fibrogenic and inflammatory cytokines in vitro.

Methods

We assessed SB3 polymorphism in 90 patients with cirrhosis, prospectively followed up in our referral centre. We used HepG2 and HuH‐7 cells transfected to overexpress either wild‐type SB3 (SB3‐WT) or SB3‐PD to assess their endogenous effect, while LX2 and THP‐1 cells were treated with exogenous SB3‐WT or SB3‐PD proteins.

Results

Patients carrying SB3‐PD had more severe portal hypertension and higher MELD scores, than patients carrying SB3‐WT. In multivariate analysis, SB3‐PD was an independent predictor of cirrhosis complications. Patients with SB3‐PD polymorphism presented with more severe liver fibrosis and inflammatory features. Hepatoma cells overexpressing SB3‐PD showed higher TGF‐β1 expression than controls. The addition of recombinant SB3‐PD induced an up‐regulation of TGF‐β1 in LX2 cells and a more prominent inflammatory profile in THP‐1 cells, compared to the effect of SB3‐WT protein.

Conclusions

The polymorphic variant SB3‐PD is highly effective in determining activation of TGF‐β1 and inflammation in vitro. Patients with cirrhosis who carry SB3‐PD polymorphism may be more prone to develop severe liver disease progression. However, further validation studies are warranted to support the in vivo relevance of this polymorphism.
Haemochromatosis in children: A national retrospective cohort promoted by the A.I.E.O.P. (Associazione Italiana Emato‐Oncologia Pediatrica) study group
Authors: Corti Paola , Ferrari Giulia Maria , Faraguna Martha Caterina , Capitoli Giulia , Longo Filomena , Corradini Elena , Casini Tommaso , Boscarol Gianluca , Pinto Valeria Maria , Ghilardi Roberta , Russo Giovanna , Colombatti Raffaella , Mariani Raffaella , Piperno Alberto
Published: November 2023

Haemochromatosis (HC) encompasses a range of genetic disorders. HFE‐HC is by far the most common in adults, while non‐HFE types are rare due to mutations of HJV, HAMP, TFR2 and gain‐of‐function mutations of SLC40A1. HC is often unknown to paediatricians as it is usually asymptomatic in childhood. We report clinical and biochemical data from 24 paediatric cases of HC (10 cases of HFE‐, 5 TFR2‐, 9 HJV‐HC), with a median follow‐up of 9.6 years. Unlike in the adult population, non‐HFE‐HC constitutes 58% (14/24) of the population in our series. Transferrin saturation was significantly higher in TFR2‐ and HJV‐HC compared to HFE‐HC, and serum ferritin and LIC were higher in HJV‐HC compared to TFR2‐ and HFE‐HC. Most HFE‐HC subjects had relatively low ferritin and LIC at the time of diagnosis, so therapy could be postponed for most of them after the age of 18. Our results confirm that HJV‐HC is a severe form already in childhood, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and treatment to avoid the development of organ damage and reduce morbidity and mortality. Although phlebotomies were tolerated by most patients, oral iron chelators could be a valid option in early‐onset HC.
Demographics, characteristics and medical treatment among adults with hand eczema in Denmark. A cross‐sectional validation and registry‐based study
Authors: Christensen Maria Oberländer , Yüksel Yasemin Topal , Vittrup Ida , Nymand Lea Krog , Thein David , Nørreslet Line Brok , Toft‐Hansen Jakob Maarbjerg , Janstrup Anne Klose , Zachariae Claus , Sommerlund Mette , Bregnhøj Anne , Egeberg Alexander , Agner Tove , Thomsen Simon Francis , Thyssen Jacob Pontoppidan
Published: November 2023

Background

The international classification of diseases, 10th revision (ICD‐10) includes several unvalidated diagnostic codes for hand eczema (HE). Knowledge is sparse on HE patient characteristics.

Objectives

To validate selected HE ICD‐10 codes in the Danish National Patient Registry (DNPR) and describe disease characteristics, lifestyle factors and medication use in adult HE patients.

Methods

Nineteen HE ICD‐10 codes were selected and validated based on patient charts. Five cohorts were constructed based on the diagnostic code, DL30.8H (HE unspecified), in the DNPR: (i) patients with DL30.8H code (n = 8386), (ii) patients with DL30.8H code, but without atopic dermatitis (AD) (n = 7406), (iii) sex‐ and age‐matched general population (n = 8386) without HE. Two additional cohorts nested in the DNPR included participants from the Danish Skin Cohort, (iv) patients with DL30.8H code but without AD (n = 1340) and (v) general population cohort (n = 9876).

Results

ICD‐10 codes revealed positive predictive values ≥90% except irritant contact dermatitis (unspecified) (79.7%) and hyperkeratotic hand and foot eczema (84.1%). HE patients were most often women, middle‐aged or older, of Danish ethnicity, had an atopic medical history and were smokers. Topical corticosteroid prescriptions were almost doubled in HE cohorts compared to general populations.

Conclusion

We validated several HE ICD‐10 codes and identified important HE patient characteristics.
Earnings Management of Chinese Listed Multinational Corporations
Authors: Lu Xingyu , Qi Tong , Xie Wenjing
Published: November 2023

This study evaluates the quality of accounting information provided by Chinese multinational corporations (MNCs) in relation to the issue of earnings management. Using a combined dataset of outward foreign direct investment and financial statements by Chinese firms publicly listed on A‐share markets between 2012 and 2017, we investigate whether Chinese MNCs are more inclined to manage earnings. We discover that these firms exhibited significant earnings management behavior and typically adjusted their earnings downward. We demonstrate that these effects were more pronounced among private MNCs than state‐owned firms, and in host countries with weaker institutional quality. Further research reveals that after delaying the confirmation of current earnings, Chinese MNCs received higher government subsidies, and this pattern was particularly prevalent among private MNCs. We find no evidence that Chinese MNCs manipulated earnings to avoid paying taxes.