bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying Genetic Variations inemm89Streptococcus pyogenesLinked to Severe Invasive Infections
Authors: Ono Masayuki , Yamaguchi Masaya , Motooka Daisuke , Hirose Yujiro , Higashi Kotaro , Sumitomo Tomoko , Miyoshi-Akiyama Tohru , Okuno Rumi , Yamaguchi Takahiro , Kawahara Ryuji , Otsuka Hitoshi , Nakanishi Noriko , Kazawa Yu , Nakagawa Chikara , Yamaguchi Ryo , Sakai Hiroo , Matsumoto Yuko , Ikebe Tadayoshi , Kawabata Shigetada
Published: July 2024

Streptococcus pyogenescauses mild human infections as well as life-threatening invasive diseases. Since the mutations known to enhance virulence to date account for only half of the severe invasive infections, additional mechanisms/mutations need to be identified. Here, we conducted a genome-wide association study ofemm89S. pyogenesstrains to comprehensively identify pathology-related bacterial genetic factors (SNPs, indels, genes, or k-mers). Japanese (n=311) and global (n=666) cohort studies of strains isolated from invasive or non-invasive infections revealed 17 and 1,075 SNPs/indels and 2 and 169 genes, respectively, that displayed associations with invasiveness. We validated one of them, a non-invasiveness-related point mutation,fhuBT218C, by structure predictions and introducing it into a severe invasive strain and confirmed that the mutant showed slower growth in human blood. Thus, we report novel mechanisms that convertemm89S. pyogenesto an invasive phenotype and a platform for establishing novel treatments and prevention strategies.
A 3.5-minute-long reading-based fMRI localizer for the language network
Authors: Tuckute Greta , Lee Elizabeth Jiachen , Sathe Aalok , Fedorenko Evelina
Published: July 2024

The field of human cognitive neuroscience is increasingly acknowledging inter-individual differences in the precise locations of functional areas and the corresponding need for individual-level analyses in fMRI studies. One approach to identifying functional areas and networks within individual brains is based on robust and extensively validated ‘localizer’ paradigms—contrasts of conditions that aim to isolate some mental process of interest. Here, we present a new version of a localizer for the fronto-temporal language-selective network. This localizer is similar to a commonly-used localizer based on the reading of sentences and nonword sequences (Fedorenko et al., 2010) but uses speeded presentation (200ms per word/nonword). Based on a direct comparison between the standard version (450ms per word/nonword) and the speeded versions of the language localizer in 24 participants, we show that a single run of the speeded localizer (3.5 min) is highly effective at identifying the language-selective areas: indeed, it is more effective than the standard localizer given that it leads to an increased response to the critical (sentence) condition and a decreased response to the control (nonwords) condition. This localizer may therefore become the version of choice for identifying the language network in neurotypical adults or special populations (as long as they are proficient readers), especially when time is of essence.
Plasmids modulate microindel mutations inAcinetobacter baylyiADP1
Authors: Liljegren Mikkel M. , Gama João A. , Johnsen Pål J. , Harms Klaus
Published: July 2024

Plasmids can impact the evolution of their hosts, e.g. due to carriage of mutagenic genes, through cross-talk with host genes or as result of SOS induction during transfer. Here we demonstrate that plasmids can cause microindel mutations in the host genome. These mutations are driven by the production of single-stranded DNA molecules that invade replication forks at microhomologies and subsequently get integrated into the genome. Using the gammaproteobacterial model organismAcinetobacter baylyi, we show that carriage of broad host range plasmids from different incompatibility groups can cause microindel mutations directly or indirectly. The plasmid pQLICE belonging to the incompatibility group Q (IncQ) and replicating by a characteristic strand displacement mechanism can generate chromosomal microindel mutations directly with short stretches of DNA originating from pQLICE. In addition, the presence of plasmids can increase microindel mutation frequencies indirectly (i.e., with chromosomal ectopic DNA) as shown with the IncP plasmid vector pRK415 (theta replication mechanism), presumably through plasmid-chromosome interactions that lead to DNA damages. These results provide new mechanistic insights into the microindel mutation mechanism, suggesting that single-stranded DNA repair intermediates are the causing agents. By contrast, the IncN plasmid RN3 appears to suppress host microindel mutations. The suppression mechanism remains unknown. Other plasmids in this study confer ambiguous or no quantifiable mutagenic effects.
Cytosolic N6AMT1-dependent translation supports mitochondrial RNA processing
Authors: Foged Mads M. , Recazens Emeline , Chollet Sylvain , Lisci Miriam , Allen George E. , Zinshteyn Boris , Boutguetait Doha , Münch Christian , Mootha Vamsi K. , Jourdain Alexis A.
Published: July 2024

Mitochondrial biogenesis relies on both the nuclear and mitochondrial genomes, and imbalance in their expression can lead to inborn error of metabolism, inflammation, and aging. Here, we investigate N6AMT1, a nucleo-cytosolic methyltransferase that exhibits genetic co-dependency with mitochondria. We determine transcriptional and translational profiles of N6AMT1 and report that it is required for the cytosolic translation of TRMT10C (MRPP1) and PRORP (MRPP3), two subunits of the mitochondrial RNAse P enzyme. In the absence ofN6AMT1, or when its catalytic activity is abolished, RNA processing within mitochondria is impaired, leading to the accumulation of unprocessed and double-stranded RNA, thus preventing mitochondrial protein synthesis and oxidative phosphorylation. Our work sheds light on the function ofN6AMT1in protein synthesis and highlights a cytosolic program required for proper mitochondrial biogenesis.
Camelina CircRNA Landscape: Implications for Gene Regulation and Fatty Acid Metabolism
Authors: Utley Delecia , Edwards Brianne , Budnick Asa , Grotewold Erich , Sederoff Heike
Published: July 2024

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are closed-loop RNAs forming a covalent bond between their 3’ and 5’ ends, the backsplice junction (BSJ), rendering them resistant to exonucleases and thus more stable compared to linear RNAs. Identification of circRNAs and distinction from its cognate linear RNA is only possible by sequencing the BSJ that is unique to the circRNA. CircRNAs are involved in regulation of their cognate RNAs by increasing transcription rates, RNA stability and alternative splicing. We have identified circRNAs fromCamelina sativathat are associated with the regulation of germination, light response, and lipid metabolism. We sequenced light-grown and etiolated seedlings after 5 or 7 days post-germination and identified a total of 3,447 circRNAs from 2,763 genes. Most circRNAs originate from a single homeolog of the three subgenomes from allohexaploid camelina and correlates with higher ratios of alternative splicing of their cognate genes. A network analysis shows the interactions of select miRNA:circRNA:mRNAs for regulation of transcript stabilities where circRNA can act as a competing endogenous RNA. Several key lipid metabolism genes can generate circRNA and we confirmed the presence of KASII circRNA as a true circRNA. CircRNA in camelina can be a novel target for breeding and engineering efforts.

Core ideas

First discovery of 3,447 genic and 307 intergenic unique putative circRNAs fromCamelina sativa.

We identified circRNAs that were regulated in response to seedling de-etiolation.

Most circRNAs originate from only one homeolog of the three subgenomes in this allohexaploid Camelina.

Alternative splicing of exon skipping and intron retention positively correlate with circRNA occurrence.

Validation of KASII circRNAs as an example of lipid metabolism pathways potentially regulated by circRNA.
Comparative Transcriptomics ofArabidopsis,Medicago,BrachypodiumandSetariaspecies during Phosphorus limitation
Authors: Pant Pooja , Duan Hui , Krom Nick , Scheible Wolf-Rűdiger
Published: July 2024

Translating biological knowledge fromArabidopsisto crop species is important to advance agriculture and secure food production in the face of dwindling fertilizer resources, biotic and abiotic stresses. However, it is often not trivial to identify functional homologs (orthologs) ofArabidopsisgenes in crops. Combining sequence and expression data can improve the correct prediction of orthologs. Here, we conducted a large-scale RNA sequencing based transcriptomics study ofArabidopsis,Medicago,BrachypodiumandSetariagrown side-by-side in Phosphorus (P)-sufficient and P-limited conditions to generate comparable transcriptomics datasets. Comparison of top 200 P-limitation induced genes inArabidopsisrevealed that ∼80% of these genes have identifiable close homologs in the other three species but only ∼50% retain their P-limitation response in the legume and grasses. Most of the hallmark genes of the P-starvation response were found conserved in all four species. This study reveals many known, novel, unannotated, conserved and species-specific regulations of the transcriptional P-starvation response. Identification and experimental verification of expressologs by independent RT-qPCR for P-limitation marker genes inPrunusshowed the usefulness of comparative transcriptomics in pinpointing the functional orthologs in diverse crop species. This study provides an unprecedented resource for functional genomics and translational research to create P-efficient crops.

HIGHLIGHT

Comparative transcriptomics reveals novel, known, conserved and specific transcriptome responding to Phosphorus limitation inArabidopsis, Medicago, BrachypodiumandSetariato facilitate translational research in crops.
Quantification of heterogeneity in human CD8+T cell responses to vaccine antigens: an HLA-guided perspective
Authors: Harris Duane C. , Shanker Apoorv , Montoya Makaela M. , Llewellyn Trent R. , Matuszak Anna R. , Lohar Aditi , Kubicek-Sutherland Jessica Z. , Li Ying Wai , Wilding Kristen , Mcmahon Ben , Gnanakaran Sandrasegaram , Ribeiro Ruy M. , Perelson Alan S. , Molina-París Carmen
Published: July 2024

Vaccines have historically played a pivotal role in controlling epidemics. Effective vaccines for viruses causing significant human disease,e.g., Ebola, Lassa fever, or Crimean Congo hemorrhagic fever virus, would be invaluable to public health strategies and counter-measure development missions. Here, we propose coverage metrics to quantify vaccine-induced CD8+T cell-mediated immune protection, as well as metrics to characterize immuno-dominant epitopes, in light of human genetic heterogeneity and viral evolution. Proof-of-principle of our approach and methods will be demonstrated for Ebola virus, SARS-CoV-2, andBurkholderia pseudomallei(vaccine) proteins.
Biochemical implementation of acceleration sensing and PIDA control
Authors: Alexis Emmanouil , Espinel-Ríos Sebastián , Kevrekidis Ioannis G. , Avalos José L.
Published: July 2024

Designing dependable, self-regulated biochemical systems has long posed a challenge in the field of Synthetic Biology. Here, we propose a realization of a Proportional-Integral-Derivative-Acceleration (PIDA) control scheme as a Chemical Reaction Network (CRN) governed by mass action kinetics. A constituent element of this architecture is a speed and acceleration biosensing mechanism we introduce and, subsequently, place within a feedback configuration. Our control scheme provides enhanced dynamic performance and robust steady-state tracking. In addition to our theoretical analysis, this is practically highlighted in both the deterministic and stochastic settings by regulating a specific biochemical processin-silicoand drawing comparisons with a simpler PID controller.
Structural and biochemical analyses of the nuclear IκBζ protein in complex with the NF-κB p50 homodimer
Authors: Zhu Norman , Rogers W. Eric , Heidary David K. , Huxford Tom
Published: July 2024

As part of the efforts to understand nuclear IκB function in NF-κB-dependent gene expression, we report an X-ray crystal structure of the IκBζ ankyrin repeat domain in complex with the dimerization domain of the NF-κB p50 homodimer. IκBζ possesses an N-terminal α helix that conveys domain folding stability. Affinity and specificity of the complex depend on a small portion of p50 at the nuclear localization signal. The model suggests that only one p50 subunit supports binding with IκBζ, and biochemical experiments confirm that IκBζ associates with DNA-bound NF-κB p50:RelA heterodimers. Comparisons of IκBζ:p50 and p50:κB DNA complex crystallographic models indicate that structural rearrangement is necessary for ternary complex formation of IκBζ and p50 with DNA.
5D tomographic phase-space reconstruction of particle bunches
Authors: Jaster-Merz S. , Assmann R. W. , Brinkmann R. , Burkart F. , Hillert W. , Stanitzki M. , Vinatier T.
Published: July 2024

We propose a new beam diagnostics method to reconstruct the phase space of charged particle bunches in five dimensions, which consist of the horizontal and vertical positions and divergences as well as the time axis. This is achieved by combining a quadrupole-based transverse phase-space tomography with the adjustable streaking angle of a polarizable X-band transverse deflection structure. We demonstrate with detailed simulations that the method is able to reconstruct various complex phase-space distributions and that the quality of the reconstruction depends on the number of input projections. This method allows for the identification and visualization of previously unnoticed detailed features in the phase-space distribution and can thereby be used as a tool toward improving the performance of particle accelerators or performing more accurate simulation studies.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Investigation of the ensemble of maximal center gauge
Authors: Dehghan Zeinab , Golubich Rudolf , Höllwieser Roman , Faber Manfried
Published: July 2024

The maximal center gauge aims to detect center vortices by maximizing a gauge functional and then projecting onto the center elements of the respective group. The requirement for unrestricted maximization of the gauge functional has proven to be untenable because it was shown that it leads to an underestimation of the string tension. To counter this problem, the ensemble of local gauge maxima is investigated and it is found that the unrestricted maximization can be replaced by a maximization restricted to the Gaussian distributed part of the ensemble. Such restricted maximization weakens the problem of an underestimated string tension.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Poly[[μ3-2-(benzotriazol-1-yl)acetato-κ3
O:O′:N
3]chlorido(ethanol-κO)cobalt(II)]
Authors: Zheng Yun-Yun , Su De-Sen , Yao Qing-Hua , Huang Min-Min
Published: July 2024

In the title compound, [Co(C8H6N3O2)Cl(C2H5OH)]
n
, the CoII atoms adopt octahedral trans-CoN2O4 and tetrahedral CoCl2O2 coordination geometries (site symmetries \overline{1} and m, respectively). The bridging μ3-O:O:N 2-(benzotriazol-1-yl)acetato ligands connect the octahedral cobalt nodes into (010) sheets and the CoCl2 fragments link the sheets into a tri-periodic network. The structure displays O—H...O hydrogen bonding and the ethanol molecule is disordered over two orientations.
Adequacy of defects liability periods for public construction projects in Ghana
Authors: Ameyaw Collins , Mensah Sarfo , Abaitey Blondel Akun , Asamoah-Duodu Anita
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The practice of the defects liability period (DLP) is a risk management strategy meant to secure durable and high-quality works. However, construction products continue to malfunction even after the expiration of DLPs. This study seeks to determine the adequacy of DLPs existing in the construction industry and propose appropriate DLPs for construction projects in the Ghanaian construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Applying quantitative research strategy, 124 questionnaires were retrieved from construction professionals surveyed. The data obtained were analysed using descriptive statistics, Cramer’s V and the significance test with the aid of Stata software.

Findings

It was found that defects start showing in both buildings and roads within 12 months after being handed over for the client’s use. The significance test and Cramer’s V analysis indicate low concordance amongst respondents that the 6–12 month DLPs existing in Ghana are adequate. It is found that the existing DLP practice does not provide sufficient security to clients.

Practical implications

Construction project clients will need to include the tenderer’s proposed DLP as part of the tender evaluation criteria with the objective of picking up a signal of the quality of work to be delivered.

Originality/value

This paper is one of the pioneering studies addressing the issue of the adequacy of DLPs in the construction industry in the Sub-Saharan Africa region. The findings trigger policy and regulatory changes in conditions guiding construction contracts procured in most developing countries that have adopted and adapted to the World Bank Public Procurement Guidelines.
Trust and SME short-term financial policy. European evidence
Authors: Gama Paulo M. , Pedroso Elsa
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Does societal trust influence short-term financial management? Recent papers uncover the importance of societal trust for financial management in specific countries and large firms. Our paper aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the impact of societal trust on short-term financial policies of SMEs, namely working capital management and cash holdings.

Design/methodology/approach

We rely on a sample of 14,711 privately owned medium-sized manufacturing firms from 26 European countries with a sample period between 2014 and 2020. For estimation, we use pooled OLS and hierarchical linear models and control for several firm-specific and country-specific known determinants of short-term financial management. Moreover, our results are robust to the specific measurement of trust, financial constraints, and corruption.

Findings

We show a positive relationship between trust and working capital requirements investment and a negative relationship between trust and the level of cash holdings. Moreover, we show that trust attenuates the negative impact of being a financially constrained firm and the positive impact of national perceptions of corruption. Finally, in higher trustworthy environments, firms operate with relatively higher inventories and relatively lower trade credit granted and obtained.

Research limitations/implications

Results suggest that policies supporting societal trust may also foster business development and that when dealing with clients or suppliers from different trustworthy environments, firms may have to adapt their business models to incorporate trust differences between business environments.

Originality/value

Firstly, the comprehensive analysis of the impact of trust on working capital management and cash holdings while controlling for different firm-level and country-level known determinants of short-term financial management. Secondly, it addresses a European sample of unquoted, medium-sized firms. Thirdly, it studies the combined effect of trust and financial constraints and trust and corruption.
Artificial intelligence in talent acquisition: exploring organisational and operational dimensions
Authors: Paramita Dhyana , Okwir Simon , Nuur Cali
Published: July 2024

Purpose

With the recent proliferation of AI, organisations are transforming not only their organisational design but also the input and output operational processes of the hiring process. The purpose of this paper is to explore the organisational and operational dimensions resulting from the deployment of AI during talent acquisition process.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted semi-structured interviews and meetings with human resources (HRs) professionals, recruiters and AI hiring platform providers in Sweden. Using an inductive data analysis rooted in the principles of grounded theory, the study uncovered four aggregate dimensions critical to understanding the role of AI in talent acquisition.

Findings

With insights from algorithmic management and ambidexterity theory, the study presents a comprehensive theoretical framework that highlights four aggregate dimensions describing AI’s transformative role in talent recruitment. The results provide a cautionary perspective, advising against an excessive emphasis on operational performance driven solely by algorithmic management.

Research limitations/implications

The study is limited in scope and subject to several constraints. Firstly, the sample size and diversity are restricted, as the findings are based on a limited number of semi-structured interviews and meetings with HRs professionals, recruiters, and AI hiring platform providers. Secondly, the rapid evolution of AI technologies means that the study’s findings may quickly become outdated as new advancements and applications emerge.

Practical implications

The results provide managers with actionable information that can lead to more precise and strategic management practices, ultimately contributing to improved organizational performance and outcomes. Plus, enhancing their ability to make informed decisions, optimize processes and address challenges effectively.

Social implications

The results signal both positive and negative impacts on employment opportunities. On the positive side, AI can streamline recruitment processes, making it easier for qualified candidates to be identified and hired quickly. However, AI systems can also perpetuate existing biases present in the data they are trained on, leading to unfair hiring practices where certain groups are systematically disadvantaged.

Originality/value

By examining the balance between transactional efficiency and relational engagement, the research addresses a crucial trade-off that organizations face when implementing AI in recruitment. The originality lies in its critique of the prevailing emphasis on e-recruiting.
“Just clearly the right thing to do”: perspectives of correctional services leaders on moving governance of health-care in custody
Authors: McLeod Katherine E. , Butler Amanda , Martin Ruth Elwood , Buxton Jane A.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Governance models are a defining characteristic of health-care systems, yet little research is available about the governance of health-care delivered in correctional facilities. This study aims to explore the perspectives of correctional services leaders in British Columbia, Canada, on the motivations for transferring responsibility for health-care services in provincial correctional facilities to the Ministry of Health, as well as key lessons learned.

Design/methodology/approach

Eight correctional services leaders participated in one-on-one interviews between September 2019 and February 2020. The authors used inductive thematic analysis to explore key themes. To triangulate early effects of the transfer identified by participants the authors used complaints data from Prisoners’ Legal Services to examine changes over time.

Findings

The authors identified four major themes related to the rationale for this transfer: 1) quality and equivalence of care, 2) integration and throughcare, 3) values and expertise and 4) funding and resources. Facilitators included changes in the external environment, having the right people in the right places, a strong sense of alignment and shared goals and a changing culture in corrections. Participants also highlighted challenges, including ongoing human resourcing issues, having to navigate and define shared responsibilities and adapting a large bureaucracy to the environment in corrections. Consistent with outcomes described by participants, data showed that a lower proportion of complaints received after the transfer were related to health-care.

Originality/value

The perspectives of correctional leaders on the transfer of governance for health-care services in custody to the community health-care system provide novel insights into the processes and potential of this change.
Congruence effects in social media influencer marketing: the moderating role of wishful identification in online impulse buying intentions
Authors: Koay Kian Yeik , Lim Weng Marc
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Grounded in self-congruency theory, this study aims to investigate the impact of different types of congruence in social media influencer marketing on consumers’ online impulse buying intentions under the moderating influence of wishful identification.

Design/methodology/approach

This study collects survey responses from an online sample of 232 social media users and analyses them using partial least squares structural equation modelling.

Findings

This study delineates two distinct pathways influencing online impulse buying intentions within influencer marketing: direct consumer–product congruence and the conditional role of consumer–influencer congruence. Particularly, the alignment between a consumer’s self-image and the product’s attributes independently drives online impulse buying intentions. Conversely, consumer–influencer congruence, despite high alignment, fails to spur online impulse buying intentions unless amplified by wishful identification – the consumer’s aspirational desire to emulate the influencer. This finding underscores the complexity of impulsive consumer behaviours in the digital marketplace, highlighting the pivotal role of product appeal and the conditional influence of influencer relationships on spontaneous purchasing decisions.

Originality/value

This study pioneers by elucidating the congruence interplay between consumers, influencers and products in online impulse buying, emphasising wishful identification as a critical moderating factor. Theoretically, it expands self-congruency theory by detailing the distinct roles of congruence types on impulsive behaviours, notably underlining the essential role of wishful identification for the effect of consumer–influencer congruence. Practically, the insights equip brands with a deeper understanding of the key drivers behind impulsive purchases in an influencer-centric digital marketplace, offering strategic guidance for optimising influencer collaborations and product presentations to enhance consumer engagement and sales.
Evaluating the impact of students' generative AI use in educational contexts
Authors: Wood Dwayne , Moss Scott H.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the impact of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) on students' learning experiences and perceptions through a master’s-level course. The study specifically focused on student engagement, comfort with GenAI and ethical considerations.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used an action research methodology employing qualitative data collection methods, including pre- and post-course surveys, reflective assignments, class discussions and a questionnaire. The AI-Ideas, Connections, Extensions (ICE) Framework, combining the ICE Model and AI paradigms, is used to assess students' cognitive engagement with GenAI.

Findings

The study revealed that incorporating GenAI in a master’s-level instructional design course increased students' comfort with GenAI and their understanding of its ethical implications. The AI-ICE Framework demonstrated most students were at the initial engagement level, with growing awareness of GenAI’s limitations and ethical issues. Course reflections highlighted themes of improved teaching strategies, personal growth and the practical challenges of integrating GenAI responsibly.

Research limitations/implications

The small sample size poses challenges to the analytical power of the findings, potentially limiting the breadth and applicability of conclusions. This constraint may affect the generalizability of the results, as the participants may not fully represent the broader population of interest. The researchers are mindful of these limitations and suggest caution in interpreting the findings, acknowledging that they may offer more exploratory insights than definitive conclusions. Future research endeavors should aim to recruit a larger cohort to validate and expand upon the initial observations, ensuring a more robust understanding.

Originality/value

The study is original in its integration of GenAI into a master's-level instructional design course, assessing both the practical and ethical implications of its use in education. By utilizing the AI-ICE Framework to evaluate students' cognitive engagement and employing action research methodology, the study provides insights into how GenAI influences learning experiences and perceptions. This approach bridges the gap between theoretical understanding and the real-world application of GenAI, offering actionable strategies for its responsible use in educational settings.
Maximizing green innovation: the impact of government subsidies and R&D in digital supply chains
Authors: Bai Yang , Zhang Xue , Wang Dajiang
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This research examines the relationship between green innovation and firm performance, focusing on identifying the moderating effects of government subsidies and digital transformation R&D investments. The study aims to provide insights on how firms can leverage green innovation for enhanced performance while addressing potential drawbacks.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts a mixed-methods approach, utilizing both analytical models and empirical analyses. It investigates the curvilinear relationship between green innovation and firm performance and explores the moderating roles of government subsidies and digital transformation R&D investments.

Findings

The findings reveal an inverted U-shaped relationship between green innovation and firm performance, indicating that initial investments in green innovation led to performance improvements, but beyond a certain point, the returns diminished. The study also finds that government subsidies and digital transformation R&D investments significantly enhance the positive impact of green innovation up to the optimal threshold and help mitigate negative effects.

Practical implications

The research provides practical guidance for firms on managing their green innovation investments to maximize performance benefits. It also offers insights for policymakers on designing effective subsidies and support mechanisms to promote environmental sustainability and economic growth.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by elucidating the complex relationship between green innovation and firm performance and highlighting the critical roles of government subsidies and digital transformation R&D investments. It offers valuable implications for businesses seeking to balance environmental and economic objectives and policymakers aiming to foster sustainable and profitable practices.
What supports the emotional well-being of peer workers in an NHS mental health service?
Authors: Robertson Sam , Leigh-Phippard Helen , Robertson Donald , Thomson Abigail , Casey Jessica , Walsh Lucy Jane
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the experiences of peers working in a range of roles within a single NHS mental health service. This study also aims to provide evidence of the impact of existing support, organisational structure and culture around peer working and provide recommendations for a Good Practice Guide for Peer Working. Peer roles require lived experience of mental health conditions and/or services. While the impact on them of using their own lived experience is not fully understood, anecdotal evidence suggests that peer workers may experience a greater emotional impact than other mental health workers. Burnout and retention are particular concerns.

Design/methodology/approach

This was a two-stage study using focus groups and reflexive thematic analysis in Stage 1. The key themes formed the basis of the Stage 2 workshop, which provided recommendations for a Good Practice Guide. The study team consisted of peer researchers with lived experience, supported by a Lived Experience Advisory Panel.

Findings

There is a perceived lack of support and an increased peer burden for peer workers. Recommendations included relevant ongoing training and development; support and supervision; and organisational cultural change.

Originality/value

Working within a peer-led co-production framework, this study contributes to the development of the evidence base for peer emotional labour. Based on the findings, a Good Practice Guide for Peer Working is being developed to promote good practice for the development of future peer worker roles.
Connection, disconnection and reconnection in peer support: a summary of the case of “Christopher”
Authors: Gray Benjamin Thomas , Sisto Matthew
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this service user paper and narrative is to highlight that peer support is not a continuous, easy or uniform process but given to disruption, fragmentation, breakdowns in relationships and hurdles. This is illustrated in a summary of the case of “Christopher”.

Design/methodology/approach

A reflective journal was kept, and participant observation was conducted for just under a year on the ward where Christopher was under Section.

Findings

Peer support can be given to fissure, breakages in relationships and discontinuity. This can negatively impact the mental health of peer support workers. With this in mind, it is vitally important to ensure that the people who take up this role are appropriately trained, supported and supervised. There needs to be a focus on “restorative” supervision and supervision by someone with experience of the peer support role as well as buddying between peer workers.

Originality/value

There is an abundance of literature and research on peer support in the community but little in the inpatient setting, making this paper novel and a contribution to understanding peer support on mental health wards.
Autonomy, motivation, knowledge and individual absorptive capacity as promoters of innovative behavior at work
Authors: Frate Flavia , Bido Diogenes
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the effect of diversity of knowledge and intrinsic motivation on individual absorptive capacity, its effect on innovative behavior at work, as well as the moderating effect of autonomy at work.

Design/methodology/approach

Data collection was carried out at the Companhia do Metropolitano de São Paulo – Metrô – obtaining 192 valid questionnaires, which were analyzed using descriptive statistics and structural equation modeling with partial least squares estimation.

Findings

Intrinsic motivation and diversity of prior knowledge have a direct effect on individual absorptive capacity (IAC) and an indirect effect on innovative work behavior (IWB). The relationship between IAC and IWB is strengthened as work autonomy increases (moderating effect).

Research limitations/implications

The results are not generalizable as this is a nonprobabilistic sample with respondents from the public sector who have job stability.

Practical implications

To encourage innovative behavior at work, the organization can implement practices that promote autonomy at work, and consider personal experiences that are not directly related to work during the selection and hiring process.

Social implications

By valuing life experience and autonomy at work and promoting innovative behavior at work, a working environment in which people feel good must be created.

Originality/value

The main highlights are the operationalization of the diversity of prior knowledge as a three-dimensional construct that promotes IAC, in addition to the moderating effect of autonomy at work.
Migration of humans fleeing conflict in the Lake Chad region may increase pressures on natural resources in Lake Fitri (Chad): A case study on waterbirds
Authors: Carenton Nicolas , Defos du Rau Pierre , Wachoum Abakar Saleh , Ducros Delphine , Suet Marie , Deschamps Clémence , Betoloum Maxime Rotoudjimbaye , Birard Julien , Djimasngar M' Baïti Narcisse , Kayser Yves , Petersen Ib Krag , Dias Jaime , Wachoum Mahamat Adoum , Portier Bruno , Koumbraït Audrey Mbagogo , Le Bel Sébastien , Mondain‐Monval Jean‐Yves
Published: July 2024

Sustainable harvest of wildlife is a major food security and conservation issue. In Africa, where wildlife is harvested mainly for subsistence, this remains a challenge. In this study, using waterbirds as model for natural resources, we assessed the sustainability of harvest through fishing bycatch on Lake Fitri (Chad).

We estimated the abundance of 24 target taxa through aerial distance sampling over four consecutive years (2018–2021) and in parallel estimated the number of birds harvested through interviews of a sample of 105 out of approximately 5500 fishermen.

By modelling their potential excess growth, we found a high risk of overexploitation for four species, including the world‐threatened Black Crowned Crane Balearica pavonina, likely due to an influx of fishermen to Lake Fitri fleeing the Boko Haram security crisis.

Synthesis and applications: This work is likely the first quantitative approach of bird harvest sustainability in Africa. It should contribute to fill a methodological and an information gap in the strategic planification of several multilateral environmental agreements like the African‐Eurasian Waterbird Agreement and the Ramsar Convention. In particular, this work could help implementing adaptive management of natural resources (including birds) in Ramsar site management plans. African wetlands such as Lake Fitri may not be able to provide enough natural resources in the medium term for movements of displaced civilians forced by armed conflict into such biodiversity strongholds.
Risk perception, efficacies and disaster preparedness: A comparison between people with and without disability
Authors: Li Yingxiang , Chen Yung‐Fang , Wang Ziyi , Han Ziqiang
Published: July 2024

Persons with disabilities (PwDs) face a disproportionately high risk due to their physical or mental limitations and socioeconomic barriers during emergencies. To better understand and empower PwDs for disaster preparedness, this study used an updated national representative survey (2021 Federal Emergency Management Agency National Household Survey) from the United States to examine the differences between PwDs and their counterparts concerning disaster preparedness with the guidance of the protection motivation theory. The results of the Tobit regression models indicated that being disabled was negatively correlated with the level of preparedness. Furthermore, disability status significantly and negatively modified the relationship between risk perception and disaster preparedness. Likewise, self‐efficacy was less strongly correlated with preparedness activities if people self‐reported themselves as having a disability. Moreover, for people with disabilities, their beliefs about the effectiveness of preventive behaviours (response efficacy) predicted decreased adoption of preparedness measures. Promoting disaster risk reduction education, strengthening self‐efficacy and developing more inclusive and targeted intervention strategies for PwDs can be used to improve their preparedness degree and capacity for disaster prevention.
Effects of Medicaid managed care on early detection of cancer: Evidence from mandatory Medicaid managed care program in Pennsylvania
Authors: Kwon Youngmin , Roberts Eric T. , Cole Evan S. , Degenholtz Howard B. , Jacobs Bruce L. , Sabik Lindsay M.
Published: July 2024

Objective

To examine changes in late‐ versus early‐stage diagnosis of cancer associated with the introduction of mandatory Medicaid managed care (MMC) in Pennsylvania.

Data Sources and Study Setting

We analyzed data from the Pennsylvania cancer registry (2010–2018) for adult Medicaid beneficiaries aged 21–64 newly diagnosed with a solid tumor. To ascertain Medicaid and managed care status around diagnosis, we linked the cancer registry to statewide hospital‐based facility records collected by an independent state agency (Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council).

Study Design

We leveraged a natural experiment arising from county‐level variation in mandatory MMC in Pennsylvania. Using a stacked difference‐in‐differences design, we compared changes in the probability of late‐stage cancer diagnosis among those residing in counties that newly transitioned to mandatory managed care to contemporaneous changes among those in counties with mature MMC programs.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

N/A.

Principal Findings

Mandatory MMC was associated with a reduced probability of late‐stage cancer diagnosis (−3.9 percentage points; 95% CI: −7.2, −0.5; p = 0.02), particularly for screening‐amenable cancers (−5.5 percentage points; 95% CI: −10.4, −0.6; p = 0.03). We found no significant changes in late‐stage diagnosis among non‐screening amenable cancers.

Conclusions

In Pennsylvania, the implementation of mandatory MMC for adult Medicaid beneficiaries was associated with earlier stage of diagnosis among newly diagnosed cancer patients with Medicaid, especially those diagnosed with screening‐amenable cancers. Considering that over half of the sample was diagnosed with late‐stage cancer even after the transition to mandatory MMC, Medicaid programs and managed care organizations should continue to carefully monitor receipt of cancer screening and design strategies to reduce barriers to guideline‐concordant screening or diagnostic procedures.
Dynamic nexus between natural resource rents, economic growth, and environmental quality: A comparative study between China and the US
Authors: Wang Daohua , Niu Ziheng , Li Ning , Zhang Yu , Zou Zongsen
Published: July 2024

Economic development and environmental sustainability have recently become global priorities. This study utilizes the nonlinear autoregressive distribution lag model (NARDL) to investigate the asymmetric effects of natural resource rents on economic growth and environmental quality in China and the United States from 1970 to 2020. The findings indicate that natural resource rents exert asymmetric effects on economic growth and environmental quality in both countries; however, the impact patterns differ between the two countries. In the short term, a decrease in natural resource rents significantly increases GDP per capita in the US, while an increase in natural resource rents has no effect. Moreover, natural resource rents do not influence the ecological footprint in the US. By contrast, China's GDP per capita remains unaffected by natural resource rents, while the ecological footprint is significantly influenced by both positive and negative changes in natural resource rents, exhibiting asymmetric impacts. In the long run, an increase in natural resource rents significantly impacts both GDP per capita and the ecological footprint in the US, while a decrease only impacts the ecological footprint. By contrast, both increases and decreases in natural resource rents impact per capita GDP and the ecological footprint in China. These findings highlight the importance of tailoring country‐specific policies to facilitate sustainable economic development and enhance environmental quality.
Moringa oleifera seed methanol extract with consolidated antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and anticancer activities
Authors: El‐Fakharany Esmail M. , Elsharkawy Wafaa B. , El‐Maradny Yousra A. , El‑Gendi Hamada
Published: July 2024

The wide biological activity of the Moringa oleifera represents a potential opportunity for developing selective cancer treatment drugs. The bioactive phytochemicals in Moringa seed extract (MSE) indicated large numbers of phytochemicals (21 compounds) with dominant abundance for cycloisolongifolene, 8,9‐dehydro‐9‐vinyl, and chamazulene accounting for 12.7% and 12.19% of the total detected compounds. The MSE showed a potent anticancer effect toward Caco‐2, MDA, and HepG‐2 cells with half‐maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of 9.15 ± 1.18, 4.85 ± 0.11, and 7.36 ± 0.22 µg/mL, respectively, with higher safety (≥31‐folds) toward normal human cells (IC50 of 150.7 ± 11.11 µg/mL). It appears that MSE stimulates selective‐dose‐dependent cell shrinkage, and nuclear condensation in the tumor cells, which finally induces the apoptosis pathway to increase its anticancer action. Additionally, MSE showed a potent capability to stimulate cell cycle arrest in both main checkpoint phases (G0/G1 and G2/M) of cell population growth. The apoptotic death stimulation was confirmed through upregulation of tumor protein p53 (p53) and cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitor p21 (p21) expression by more than three‐ to sixfold and downregulation of B‐cell lymphoma 2 expression (threefold) in MSE‐treated cells compared to 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU)‐treated tumor cells. Furthermore, the MSE revealed strong anti‐inflammatory activity with significant antioxidant activity by lowering nitric oxide levels and enhancing the superoxide dismutase activity. On the other hand, the MSE revealed broad‐spectrum antibacterial activity in a dose‐dependent manner against Staphylococcus aureus minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC of 1.25 mg/mL), followed by Salmonella typhimurium (MIC of 1.23 mg/mL), whereas Escherichia coli was the least sensitive to MSE activity (MIC of 22.5 mg/mL) with significant antibiofilm activity against sensitive pathogens.
SCARF2 is a target for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: Evidence from multi‐omics research and cohort validation
Authors: Wang Sai , Yue Yuanyi , Wang Xueqing , Tan Yue , Zhang Qiang
Published: July 2024

Age‐related chronic inflammatory lung diseases impose a threat on public health, including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, their etiology and potential targets have not been clarified. We performed genome‐wide meta‐analysis for IPF with the largest sample size (2883 cases and 741,929 controls) and leveraged the summary statistics of COPD (17,547 cases and 617,598 controls). Transcriptome‐wide and proteome‐wide Mendelian randomization (MR) designs, together with genetic colocalization, were implemented to find robust targets. The mediation effect was assessed using leukocyte telomere length (LTL). The single‐cell transcriptome analysis was performed to link targets with cell types. Individual‐level data from UK Biobank (UKB) were used to validate our findings. Sixteen genetically predicted plasma proteins were causally associated with the risk of IPF and 6 proteins were causally associated with COPD. Therein, genetically‐elevated plasma level of SCARF2 protein should reduce the risk of both IPF (odds ratio, OR = 0.9974 [0.9970, 0.9978]) and COPD (OR = 0.7431 [0.6253, 0.8831]) and such effects were not mediated by LTL. Genetic colocalization further corroborated these MR results of SCARF2. The transcriptome‐wide MR confirmed that higher expression level of SCARF2 was associated with a reduced risk of both. However, the single‐cell RNA analysis indicated that SCARF2 expression level was only relatively lower in epithelial cells of COPD lung tissue compared to normal lung tissue. UKB data implicated an inverse association of serum SCARF2 protein with COPD (hazard ratio, HR = 1.215 [1.106, 1.335]). The SCARF2 gene should be a novel target for COP.