bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knockdown of PHOX2B in the retrotrapezoid nucleus reduces the central CO2chemoreflex in rats
Authors: Cardani Silvia , Janes Tara A. , Betzner William , Pagliardini Silvia
Published: December 2023

PHOX2B is a transcription factor essential for the development of the autonomic nervous system. Heterozygous mutations in the PHOX2B coding region are responsible for the occurrence of Congenital Central Hypoventilation Syndrome (CCHS), a rare neurological disorder characterised by inadequate chemosensitivity and life-threatening sleep-related hypoventilation. Animal studies suggest that chemoreflex defects are caused in part by the improper development or function of PHOX2B expressing neurons in the retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN), a central hub for CO2chemosensitivity.

Although the function of PHOX2B in rodents during development is well established, its role in the adult respiratory network remains unknown. In this study, we investigated whether reduction in PHOX2B expression in chemosensitive neuromedin-B (NMB) expressing neurons in the RTN altered respiratory function. Four weeks following local RTN injection of a lentiviral vector expressing the short hairpin RNA (shRNA) targetingPhox2bmRNA, a reduction of PHOX2B expression was observed inNmbneurons compared to both naïve rats and rats injected with the non-target shRNA. PHOX2B knockdown did not affect breathing in room air or under hypoxia, but ventilation was significantly impaired during hypercapnia. PHOX2B knockdown did not alterNmbexpression but reduced the expression of bothTask2andGpr4, two CO2sensors in the RTN. We conclude that PHOX2B in the adult brain has an important role in CO2chemoreception and reduced PHOX2B expression in CCHS beyond the developmental period may contribute to the impaired central chemoreflex function.
How to barcode (almost all) freshwater biodiversity
Authors: Tournayre Orianne , Tian Haolun , Lougheed David R. , Windle Matthew J.S. , Lambert Sheldon , Carter Jennipher , Sun Zhengxin , Ridal Jeff , Wang Yuxiang , Cumming Brian F. , Arnott Shelley E. , Lougheed Stephen C.
Published: December 2023

Freshwater ecosystems are complex, diverse and face a variety of imminent threats that have led to changes in both ecosystem structure and function. It is urgent that we develop and standardize monitoring tools allowing for rapid and comprehensive assessment of freshwater communities to understand their changing dynamics and to inform conservation. Environmental DNA surveys offer a means to inventory and monitor aquatic diversity, yet most studies focus on one or a few taxonomic groups only. In this study, we sought to 1) identify thoroughly validated, cost-efficient primer pair combinations that maximize detection of broad swaths of freshwater diversity, and 2) facilitate future primer pair selection by creating a free online and user-friendly tool. We first evaluated the completeness of public reference sequence databases and the efficiency of 14 primer pairs using anin silicoapproach, and then performed eDNA surveys using five mock communities (mix of DNA from tissues), water samples from aquarium samples with known taxonomic composition, and finally water samples from freshwater systems in Eastern Canada. We highlight the power of eDNA-based metabarcoding for reconstructing freshwater communities, including prey, parasite, pathogen, invasive, and declining species. Our work reveals the importance of the marker choice on species resolution, as well as the importance of degenerate primers, the length of the target fragment and the filtering parameters on detection success in water eDNA samples. Our new online tool SNIPe revealed that 13 to 14 primer pairs are necessary to recover 100% of the species in water samples (aquarium and natural systems), but four primer pairs are sufficient to recover almost 75% of taxa with little overlap. These results highlight the usefulness of eDNA for freshwater monitoring and should prompt more studies on tools to survey all-inclusive communities.
Pharmacometabolomics in TB Meningitis – understanding the pharmacokinetic, metabolic, and immune factors associated with anti-TB drug concentrations in cerebrospinal fluid
Authors: Collins Jeffrey M. , Kipiani Maia , Jin Yutong , Sharma Ashish A. , Tomalka Jeffrey A. , Avaliani Teona , Gujabidze Mariam , Bakuradze Tinatin , Sabanadze Shorena , Avaliani Zaza , Blumberg Henry M. , Benkeser David , Jones Dean P. , Peloquin Charles , Kempker Russell R.
Published: December 2023

Poor penetration of many anti-tuberculosis (TB) antibiotics into the central nervous system (CNS) is thought to be a major driver of morbidity and mortality in TB meningitis (TBM). While the amount of a particular drug that crosses into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) varies from person to person, little is known about the host factors associated with interindividual differences in CSF concentrations of anti-TB drugs. In patients diagnosed with TBM from the country of Georgia (n=17), we investigate the association between CSF concentrations of anti-TB antibiotics and multiple host factors including serum drug concentrations and CSF concentrations of metabolites and cytokines. We found >2-fold differences in CSF concentrations of anti-TB antibiotics from person to person for all drugs tested including cycloserine, ethambutol, imipenem, isoniazid, levofloxacin, linezolid, moxifloxacin pyrazinamide, and rifampin. While serum drug concentrations explained over 40% of the variation in CSF drug concentrations for cycloserine, isoniazid, linezolid, and pyrazinamide (adjusted R2>0.4, p<0.001 for all), there was no evidence of an association between serum concentrations of imipenem and ethambutol and their respective CSF concentrations. CSF concentrations of carnitines were significantly associated with concentrations of ethambutol and imipenem (q<0.05), and imipenem was the only antibiotic significantly associated with CSF cytokine concentrations. These results indicate that there is high interindividual variability in CSF drug concentrations in patients treated for TBM, which is only partially explained by differences in serum drug concentrations and not associated with concentrations of cytokines and chemokines in the CSF.
Association of urinary peptides with hypertension
Authors: Mavrogeorgis Emmanouil , Kondyli Margarita , Mischak Harald , Vlahou Antonia , Siwy Justyna , Rossing Peter , Campbell Archie , Mels Carina MC , Delles Christian , Staessen Jan A , Latosinska Agnieszka , Persu Alexandre
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

Hypertension is a common condition worldwide, yet its underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. This study aims at identifying urinary peptides associated with hypertension to further explore its molecular pathophysiology.

METHODS

Peptidome data from 2876 individuals without end-organ damage were retrieved from the Human Urinary Proteome Database general population (discovery) or type 2 diabetic (validation) cohorts. Participants were divided based on systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP) into hypertensive (SBP≥140mmHg and/or DBP≥90mmHg) and normotensive (SBP<120mmHg and DBP<80mmHg, without antihypertensive treatment) groups. Differences in peptide abundance between the two groups were confirmed using an external cohort (n=420) of participants without end-organ damage, matched for age, body-mass index, eGFR, sex and presence of diabetes. Further, associations of the peptides with BP as a continuous variable were investigated. Findings were compared with peptide biomarkers of chronic diseases and bioinformatics analyses were conducted to potentially highlight the underlying molecular mechanisms.

RESULTS

Between hypertensive and normotensive individuals, ninety-six (mostly COL1A1 and COL3A1) peptides were found significantly different in the discovery (adjusted) as well as the validation (nominal significance) cohorts with consistent regulation. Of these peptides, 83 were also consistently regulated in the matched cohort. A weak, yet significant association between their abundance and standardized BP was also observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Hypertension is associated with an altered urinary peptide profile, with evident collagen differential regulation. Peptides related to vascular calcification and sodium regulation are also affected. Whether these modifications reflect the pathophysiology of hypertensionper seand/or early subclinical target organ damage warrants further investigation.

Novelty and Relevance

What is New?

This is the first study demonstrating differential regulation of urinary peptides in hypertensive patients, independent from other co-factors like age, diabetes, or established kidney or cardiovascular disease.

What is Relevant?

The observed changes in urinary peptides indicate individual differences in molecular changes observed in hypertension, and may guide personalized treatment based on the observed molecular changes

Clinical/Pathophysiological Implications?

The results indicate that collagen homeostasis may be a key molecular feature in hypertension and may serve as an attractive mechanism for pharmacological intervention.
The functional type VI secretion system ofSinorhizobium frediiUSDA257 is required for a successful nodulation withGlycine maxcv Pekin
Authors: Reyes-Pérez Pedro José , Sánchez-Reina Ana , Civantos Cristina , Castro Natalia Moreno-de , Ollero Francisco Javier , Gandullo Jacinto , Jiménez-Guerrero Irene , Bernal Patricia , Pérez-Montaño Francisco
Published: December 2023

For agriculture, the symbiosis carried out by rhizobia with legumes stands out as crucial for both economic and environmental reasons. In this process, the bacteria colonize the roots of the plants, inducing the formation of plant organs called nodules. Within these structures, rhizobia fix the environmental nitrogen into ammonia reducing the demand for this essential element required for plant growth. Various bacterial secretion systems (TXSS, Type X Secretion System) are involved in the establishment of this symbiosis, with the T3SS being the most extensively studied. The T6SS is a nanoweapon present in 25% of gram-negative bacteria, commonly used against other gram-negative bacteria, though some of them use it to manipulate eukaryotic cells.

Interestingly, although T6SS is widely distributed among rhizobia, whether it has a specific role in symbiosis with legumes remains elusive.Sinorhizobium frediiUSDA257 is a fast-growing rhizobium with the capacity to nodulate a great variety of legume plants. This strain harbors a single T6SS cluster, containing the genes encoding all the structural components of the system and two genes encoding potential effectors that could target the cell wall of the plants and/or be acting as a toxin/antitoxin system. We have demonstrated that this system is active and can be induced in poor culture media. In addition, we have seen by fluorescence microscopy that the T6SS is active in nodules. Competition assays between USDA257 and different preys have shown that USDA257 cannot kill any of them using its T6SS under tested conditions. By constract, nodulation assays demonstrated that USDA257 utilizes this protein secretion system to enhance nodulation and competitiveness with its hostGlycine maxcv Pekin.
Integrating animal tracking data into spatial conservation prioritisation for seabirds during their breeding season
Authors: Venegas-Li Ruben , Chiaradia Andre , Schinagl Harley , Kato Akiko , Ropert-Coudert Yan , Possingham Hugh , Reina Richard D.
Published: December 2023

Understanding the spatial-temporal marine habits is crucial to conserving air-breathing marine animals that breed on islands and forage at sea. This study, focusing on little penguins from Phillip Island, Australia, employed tracking data to identify vital foraging areas during breeding season. Long-term data from sub-colonies and breeding stages were analysed using 50%, 75%, and 90% kernel utilisation distributions (KUDs). Breeding success, classified as low, average, or high, guided the exploration of site, year, and breeding stage-specific habitats. Using Marxan, a widely used conservation planning tool, the study proposes both static and dynamic spatial-temporal scenarios for protection based on KUDs. The dynamic approach, requiring less space than the static strategy, was more efficient and likely more acceptable to stakeholders. The study underscores the need for comprehensive data in conservation plans, as relying on one nesting site’s data might miss essential foraging areas for penguins in other locations. This study demonstrates the efficacy of animal tracking data in spatial conservation prioritisation and marine spatial planning. The dynamic areas frequented emerged as a strategy to safeguard core regions at sea, offering insights to improve the conservation of iconic species like little penguins and promoting the health of islands and the entire marine ecosystem.
Development of an automated high-content immuno-fluorescence assay of pSmads quantification: proof-of-concept with drugs inhibiting the BMP/TGFβ pathways
Authors: Khodr Valia , Clauzier Laura , Machillot Paul , Sales Adrià , Migliorini Elisa , Picart Catherine
Published: December 2023

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and transforming growth factors (TGF-β) are members of the transforming growth factors superfamily, known for their role in several physiological and pathological processes. These factors are known to bindin vivoto BMP and TGF-β receptors respectively, which induces the phosphorylation of the Smad (pSmad) transcription factors. This pathway is generally studied with western blot and luciferase bioluminescence assay, which present some limitations. In our work, we developed and optimized a high-content immunofluorescence assay to study the pSmad pathway on glass as well as on biomaterials by overcoming the technical challenges raised by image acquisition and analysis. Furthermore, with this assay, we present here a proof-of concept for drug testing on glass and on biomimetic films using drug inhibitors of the BMP receptor and of the TGF-β receptors. Altogether, our results open perspectives for future drug testing on biomimetic films that present various growth factors and extracellular matrix proteins or peptides.
Structural basis of a regulatory switch in mammalian complex I
Authors: Grba Daniel N. , Wright John J. , Yin Zhan , Fisher William , Hirst Judy
Published: December 2023

Respiratory complex I powers oxidative phosphorylation in mammalian mitochondria by using the reducing potential of NADH to reduce ubiquinone-10 and drive protons across the inner mitochondrial membrane. High-resolution cryoEM structures have provided a molecular framework for complex I catalysis, but controversies about how to assign functional properties to the states identified in single-particle analyses are preventing progress on its energy-converting mechanism. Here, we combine precise biochemical definition with high-resolution cryoEM structures in the phospholipid bilayer of coupled vesicles and show that the closed and open states observed in mammalian complex I preparations are components of the deactive transition that occurs during ischaemia. Populations of the cryoEM open state and biochemical deactive state match exactly. Deactivation switches the enzyme off, converting the closed state that is capable of rapid, reversible catalysis into an open, dormant state that is unable to start up in reverse. The deactive state is switched back on by slow priming reactions with NADH and ubiquinone-10. Thus, by developing a versatile membrane system to unite structure and function, we define the role of large-scale conformational transitions in complex I and establish a new gold standard for structure-based investigations of catalysis by energy-coupled proteins.
Multi-layered proteomics identifies insulin-induced upregulation of the EphA2 receptor via the ERK pathway and dependent on low IGF1R level
Authors: Jørgensen Sarah Hyllekvist , Emdal Kristina Bennet , Pedersen Anna-Kathrine , Axelsen Lene Nygaard , Kildegaard Helene Faustrup , Damozay Damien , Pedersen Thomas Åskov , Grønborg Mads , Slaaby Rita , Nielsen Peter Kresten , Olsen Jesper Velgaard
Published: December 2023

Insulin resistance impairs the cellular insulin response and frequently precedes metabolic disorders, like type 2 diabetes, which are affecting an increasing number of people globally. Given the critical role of the liver in glucose and lipid metabolism, understanding the molecular mechanisms in hepatic insulin resistance is essential for early preventive treatments. To elucidate changes in insulin signal transduction associated with hepatocellular resistance, we employed a multi-layered mass spectrometry-based proteomics approach focusing on insulin receptor (IR) signaling at the interactome, phosphoproteome, and proteome levels.in a long-term hyperinsulinemia-induced insulin-resistant HepG2 cell line with a knockout of the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R KO). Analysis of the dynamic insulin-induced IR interactome revealed recruitment of the PI3K complex in both insulin-sensitive and -resistant cells. From the phosphoproteomics dataset, a change in insulin-stimulated signaling responses in insulin resistance was observed and showed attenuated signaling via the metabolic PI3K-AKT pathway but sustained extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activity. At the proteome level, the ephrin type-A receptor 2 (EphA2) showed an insulin-induced increase in expression. This receptor belongs to the Eph receptor family and participates in various cellular processes, such as cell adhesion, migration, and tissue development. The protein abundance regulation of EphA2 occurred through the ERK signaling pathway and was concordantly independent of insulin resistance. Induction of EphA2 by insulin was confirmed in other cell lines and observed uniquely in cells with high levels of IR compared to IGF1R. The multi-layered proteomics dataset provided insights into insulin signaling in general and in the context of insulin resistance, and it can going forward serve as a resource to generate and test hypotheses, leading to an improved understanding of insulin resistance.
Memory reactivation during sleep does not act holistically on object memory
Authors: Siefert Elizabeth M. , Uppuluri Sindhuja , Mu Jianing , Tandoc Marlie C. , Antony James W. , Schapiro Anna C.
Published: December 2023

Memory reactivation during sleep is thought to facilitate memory consolidation. Most sleep reactivation research has examined how reactivation of specific facts, objects, and associations benefits their overall retention. However, our memories are not unitary, and not all features of a memory persist in tandem over time. Instead, our memories are transformed, with some features strengthened and others weakened. Does sleep reactivation drive memory transformation? We leveraged the Targeted Memory Reactivation technique in an object category learning paradigm to examine this question. Participants (20 female, 14 male) learned three categories of novel objects, where each object had unique, distinguishing features as well as features shared with other members of its category. We used a real-time EEG protocol to cue the reactivation of these objects during sleep at moments optimized to generate reactivation events. We found that reactivation improved memory for distinguishing features while worsening memory for shared features, suggesting a differentiation process. The results indicate that sleep reactivation does not act holistically on object memories, instead supporting a transformation process where some features are enhanced over others.
A Stochastic Population Model for the Impact of Cancer Cell Dormancy on Therapy Success
Authors: Blath Jochen , Kraut Anna , Paul Tobias , Tóbiás András
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Therapy evasion – and subsequent disease progression – is a major challenge in current oncology. An important role in this context seems to be played by various forms of cancer cell dormancy. For example, therapy-induced dormancy, over short timescales, can create serious obstacles to aggressive treatment approaches such as chemotherapy, and long-term dormancy may lead to relapses and metastases even many years after an initially successful treatment. The underlying dormancy-related mechanisms are complex and highly diverse, so that the analysis even of basic patterns of the population-level consequences of dormancy requires abstraction and idealization, as well as the identification of the relevant specific scenarios.

In this paper, we focus on a situation in which individual cancer cells may switch into and out of a dormant state both spontaneously as well as in response to treatment, and over relatively short time-spans. We introduce a mathematical ‘toy model’, based on stochastic agent-based interactions, for the dynamics of cancer cell populations involving individual short-term dormancy, and allow for a range of (multi-drug) therapy protocols. Our analysis shows that in our idealized model, even a small initial population of dormant cells can lead to therapy failure under classical (and in the absence of dormancy successful) single-drug treatments. We further investigate the effectiveness of several multidrug regimes (manipulating dormant cancer cells in specific ways) and provide some basic rules for the design of (multi-)drug treatment protocols depending on the types and parameters of dormancy mechanisms present in the population.
Collective impact for ocean literacy – inspiring the next generation of ocean champions using social marketing
Authors: McHugh Patricia , Dromgool-Regan Cushla , Domegan Christine T. , Burke Noirin
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to describe a case between practitioners and social marketing academics to grow and scale a programme that engages with primary schools, teachers, children and the education network, inspiring students to become marine leaders and ocean champions.

Design/methodology/approach

Over a six-year period, the authors first applied collective intelligence to work with stakeholders across society to better understand the barriers and solutions to teaching children (6–12 year olds) about the ocean in schools. Following this, a Collective Impact Assessment of the Explorers Education Programme took place to grow the impact of the programme.

Findings

The Explorers Education Programme has grown its numbers higher than pre-pandemic levels. In 2022, the Explorers Education Programme had the largest number of participating children, reaching 15,237, with a growth of 21% compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019 and 79% compared to 2021. In 2023, the programme won the “Best Education Outreach Award” category of the Education Awards in Ireland.

Research limitations/implications

This research stresses the importance of measuring impact. The long-term impact of the Explorers Education Programme at societal, environmental and economical levels takes a much longer time frame to measure than the six years of these research collaborations.

Practical implications

The collaborative approach between academics and practitioners meant that this research had practical implications, whereby necessary and effective changes and learnings could be directly applied to the Explorers Education Programme in real time, as the practitioners involved were directly responsible for the management and coordination of the programme.

Originality/value

The value of collaborations and engagement between academia and practice cannot be underestimated. The ability to collectively reflect and assess impact moves beyond “an” intervention, allowing for more meaningful behavioural, social and system changes for the collective good, inspiring the next generation of marine leaders and ocean champions.
Social entrepreneurship and complex thinking: an exploratory, educational innovation proposal for acquiring and scaling competencies
Authors: Vázquez-Parra José Carlos , Cruz-Sandoval Marco , Sotelo Carlos , Sotelo David , Carlos-Arroyo Martina , Welti-Chanes Jorge
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This article aims to present the results of an exploratory pilot study that demonstrates the validity of a self-created implementation methodology to develop the students' level of perceived achievement of the social entrepreneurship competency and explain how this is equally valid in developing the perceived achievement of the complex thinking competency.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a multivariate descriptive statistical analysis, this article offers the results of an educational intervention carried out on a sample group of students from a Mexican university before and after a training program in social entrepreneurship.

Findings

The favorable results showed that the proposed methodology is valid for scaling social entrepreneurship and complex thinking competencies and their subcompetencies.

Originality/value

These results are not only academically valuable, as they highlight the need to delve into the relationship between these two competencies, but they also allow us to appreciate the ample opportunities for practical implementation of entrepreneurship programs by universities and other institutions to work directly with social entrepreneurs and seek alternatives to develop skills through devising, proposing and developing social entrepreneurship projects.
Developing computational methods of heat flow using bioheat equation enhancing skin thermal modeling efficiency
Authors: Ostadhossein Rouhollah , Hoseinzadeh Siamak
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The main objective of this paper is to investigate the response of human skin to an intense temperature drop at the surface. In addition, this paper aims to evaluate the efficiency of finite difference and finite volume methods in solving the highly nonlinear form of Pennes’ bioheat equation.

Design/methodology/approach

One-dimensional linear and nonlinear forms of Pennes’ bioheat equation with uniform grids were used to study the behavior of human skin. The specific heat capacity, thermal conductivity and blood perfusion rate were assumed to be linear functions of temperature. The nonlinear form of the bioheat equation was solved using the Newton linearization method for the finite difference method and the Picard linearization method for the finite volume method. The algorithms were validated by comparing the results from both methods.

Findings

The study demonstrated the capacity of both finite difference and finite volume methods to solve the one-dimensional and highly nonlinear form of the bioheat equation. The investigation of human skin’s thermal behavior indicated that thermal conductivity and blood perfusion rate are the most effective properties in mitigating a surface temperature drop, while specific heat capacity has a lesser impact and can be considered constant.

Originality/value

This paper modeled the transient heat distribution within human skin in a one-dimensional manner, using temperate-dependent physical properties. The nonlinear equation was solved with two numerical methods to ensure the validity of the results, despite the complexity of the formulation. The findings of this study can help in understanding the behavior of human skin under extreme temperature conditions, which can be beneficial in various fields, including medical and engineering.
Hiemenz stagnation point flow of a second-order micropolar slip flow with heat transfer
Authors: Usafzai Waqar Khan , Aly Emad H. , Pop Ioan
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to study a non-Newtonian micropolar fluid flow over a bidirectional flexible surface for multiple exact solutions of momentum boundary layer and thermal transport phenomenon subject to wall mass flux, second-order slip and thermal jump conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

The coupled equations are transformed into ordinary differential equations using similarity variables. Analytical and numerical techniques are used to solve the coupled equations for single, dual or multiple solutions.

Findings

The results show that the stretching flow, shrinking flow, the wall drag, thermal profile and temperature gradient manifest large changes when treated for special effects of the standard parameters. The role of critical numbers is definitive in locating the domains for the existence of exact solutions. The nondimensional parameters, such as mass transfer parameter, bidirectional moving parameter, plate deformation strength parameter, velocity slips, material parameter, thermal jump and Prandtl number, are considered, and their physical effects are presented graphically. The presence of governing parameters exhibits special effects on the flow, microrotation and temperature distributions, and various exact solutions are obtained for the special parametric cases.

Originality/value

The originality and value of this work lie in its exploration of non-Newtonian micropolar fluid flow over a bidirectional flexible surface, highlighting the multiple exact solutions for momentum boundary layers and thermal transport under various physical conditions. The study provides insights into the effects of key parameters on flow and thermal behavior, contributing to the understanding of complex fluid dynamics.
Analyzing user sentiments toward selected content management software: a sentiment analysis of viewer’s comments on YouTube
Authors: Saikia Swagota , Kumar Vinit , Verma Manoj Kumar
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to perform sentiment analysis and analyze the growth and popularity of Drupal, Joomla and WordPress on YouTube over a four-year period. This included identifying the most liked and commented videos for each content management system (CMS), ranking the CMSs based on the number of positive comments they received, and using natural language processing techniques to identify the top ten most frequently appearing words in videos about the CMSs.

Design/methodology/approach

The data for assessing the features of the videos of Drupal, WordPress and Joomla was extracted using Webometric Analyst version 4.4. with the help of the YouTube application programming interface key for videos on the selected CMSs uploaded from 2019 to 2022. The extraction of comments and sentiment analysis for the relevant videos was done using Mozdeh.

Findings

This study scrutinized 371, 234 and 313 videos of WordPress, Joomla and Drupal on YouTube. The findings reveal that there is a chronological growth of videos of the three CMSs in four years and till the present time, WordPress has the highest number of videos followed by Drupal and then Joomla. Regarding the ranking of highly liked videos, WordPress again wins the list with the highest number of likes in its videos followed by Drupal and then Joomla. For analyzing sentiments of the total comments extracted 123,409 for WordPress, 1,790 for Joomla and 1,783 for Drupal, respectively, WordPress receives the highest average positive comments followed by Drupal then Joomla. In top word frequency, the word “thank” highly occurs and viewers are asking for more tutorial videos.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first attempt for analyzing the sentiments of WordPress, Drupal and Joomla using Mozdeh software within the concerning period.
Research trends in the field of Islamic social finance: a bibliometric analysis from 1914 to 2022
Authors: Akhter Afaf , Javed Mohd Yousuf , Akhter Javaid
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study aims to present a bibliometric analysis of Islamic social finance (ISF) by addressing gaps in the existing research, exploring the current trends of publications and determining possible future research directions in this field.

Design/methodology/approach

Relevant bibliometric data of published research during 1914–2022 was extracted from the Scopus database and 1,355 studies were considered for the analysis. Biblioshiny app from RStudio, VOSviewer and Microsoft Excel were the tools used for analysis.

Findings

The identified current research streams are management and distribution of ISF funds especially zakat through fintech; governance and accountability of ISF institutions; Islamic microfinance for poverty alleviation and financial inclusion; ISF for promoting sustainable development and achieving United Nations sustainable development goals; waqf endowments and cash waqf; and Islamic charities. The identified themes for future research directions are Islamic fintech, integration of ISF, sustainable development, economic recovery, social entrepreneurship, sustainable ISF ecosystem and supporting refugees.

Practical implications

It provides extensive and up-to-date literature on the current trends in ISF and future research themes which can be useful for researchers, professionals and policymakers in the field.

Social implications

The findings of this research contribute to the solutions to socio-economic challenges and support sustainable development through ISF.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research is one of the first attempt to provide a pervasive bibliometric review on ISF by including various aspects of ISF and extending the study period to more than 100 years.
Exploring the mechanical response of functionally graded hollow disks: insights from rotation, gravity and variable heat generation
Authors: Singh Sanjay Kumar , Sondhi Lakshman , Sahu Rakesh Kumar , Madan Royal
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to perform elastic stress and deformation analysis of a functionally graded hollow disk under different conditions (rotation, gravity, internal pressure, temperature with variable heat generation) and their combinations.

Design/methodology/approach

The classical method of solution, Navier's equation, is used to solve the governing equation. The analysis considers thermal and mechanical boundary conditions and takes into account the variation of material properties according to a power law function of the radius of the disk and grading parameter.

Findings

The findings of the study reveal distinct trends and behaviors based on different grading parameters. The influence of gravity is found to be negligible, resulting in similar patterns to the pure rotation case. Variable heat generation introduces non-linear temperature profiles and higher displacements, with stress values influenced by grading parameters.

Practical implications

The study provides valuable insights into the behavior of displacement and stresses in hollow disks, offering a deeper understanding of their mechanical response under varying conditions. These insights can be useful in the design and analysis of functionally graded hollow disks in various engineering applications.

Originality/value

The originality and value of this study lies in the consideration of various loading combinations of rotation, gravity, internal pressure and temperature with variable heat generation. Furthermore, the study of effect of various angular rotations, temperatures and pressures expands the understanding of the mechanical behavior of such structures, contributing to the existing body of knowledge in the field.
Do knowledge sharing and big data analytics capabilities matter for green absorptive capacity and green entrepreneurship orientation? Implications for green innovation
Authors: Makhloufi Lahcene
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study is the first to examine how big data analytics (BDA) capabilities affect green absorptive capacity (GAC) and green entrepreneurship orientation (GEO). It uses the dynamic capability view, BDA and knowledge-sharing literature. There is a lack of studies addressing the BDA–GAC and BDA–GEO relationships and their potential impact on green innovation. Continuing the ongoing research discussion, a few studies examined the vital implications of knowledge sharing (KS) on GAC, GEO and green innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a cross-sectional and stratified random sampling technique to collect data through self-administered surveys among Chinese manufacturing firm employees. The study applied SmartPLS to analyze the obtained data.

Findings

The findings revealed that BDA capabilities positively influence GAC and GEO. In addition, GEO and KS positively impact green innovation. The KS recorded a positive impact on GAC and GEO. Furthermore, GAC and GEO recorded a partial mediating effect.

Practical implications

The study acknowledges that GAC is the backbone of a firm green entrepreneurial orientation, which needs to be aligned with BDA capabilities to anticipate future green business trends. GAC's help drives GEO's green business agenda. KS plays a strategic role in developing GAC, fostering GEO and improving green innovation.

Originality/value

The study highlights the necessity of aligning BDA capabilities to fit firms' GEO green business agendas. This study focuses on the role of BDA capabilities in developing firms' green dynamics capabilities (e.g. GAC), which helps GEO drive superior green business growth. KS develops GAC and boosts GEO to enhance green innovation.
What drives public debt in SAARC countries? An empirical assessment
Authors: Pratibha S. , Krishna M.
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study aims to explore the determinants of public debt in selected South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) countries for 19 years, from 2001 to 2019.

Design/methodology/approach

Using ordinary fixed and random effect models, the authors examine the role of internal and external factors in determining the composition of public debt. Furthermore, for robustness, they compare the results with two-stage least square (2SLS) regression estimates after considering the problem of endogeneity, overidentification, under-identification and weak instruments.

Findings

The findings show that among the selected macroeconomic variables, inflation, exchange rate and broad money have significant negative effects on the debt-GDP ratio. In contrast, military spending, corruption and interest rates appear to positively influence the same as per 2SLS results. From the policymaking perspective, SAARC countries should focus more on reducing military spending and make a concerted effort to augment investments in productive projects. Further, with strong fiscal consolidation and institutional quality, it is important to mitigate the frequent occurrence of corruption conundrums in emerging economies for the development of a transparent economic system.

Originality/value

The study is distinct from previous studies in two ways. First, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, there are no studies focusing on SAARC countries in the context of public debt. Second, the study expands the existing literature on public debt by taking into account both external and internal debts to decipher the within-country and cross-country determinants of debt accumulation. More specifically, this model considers accountability and transparency in the public sector, cross-border security challenges and benefits of globalization by including explanatory variables such as corruption, military expenditure spending and capital inflows.
SDG commentary: services that enable well-being of the human species
Authors: Hammedi Wafa , Parkinson Joy , Patrício Lia
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the challenges, interplay and potential directions for future service research to address the first three Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of no poverty, zero hunger and good health and well-being.

Design/methodology/approach

This commentary examines how service research has addressed these SDGs in the literature, and through the development of a theory of change, the authors propose an agenda for service research going beyond serving, to enabling and transforming service systems, expanding the current focus on individual to community and population well-being through promotion and prevention.

Findings

Service research has increasingly advocated human-centered approaches but requires a shift towards an all of humanity perspective. Individual and collective well-being have gained attention in service research, emphasizing the importance of considering collective well-being.

Research limitations/implications

The commentary underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to develop services that contribute to the well-being of the human species. It calls for research that transcends dyadic interactions, considers systemic dynamics and broadens the focus from individual to collective and population well-being.

Social implications

This paper discusses important societal issues of poverty, hunger and good health and well-being and the need for integrated and ecosystem approaches to develop equitable and sustainable solutions for collective well-being.

Originality/value

While SDGs 1, 2 and 3 address individual goals, they collectively underpin the well-being of communities and societies.
Managing food-wasting: the role of customer cooperation in influencing firms' pro-environmental behavior
Authors: Rizzo Cristian , Sestino Andrea , Gutuleac Rada , Bertoldi Bernardo
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Food waste is increasingly becoming a major issue for retail companies. However, there is still limited knowledge of how new forms of collaborative consumption (CC) may impact firms' behavior. This paper identifies and examines how the enablers of food waste and firms' tendency to cooperate with their customers may affect the adoption of measures oriented to diminish waste reduction, as well as the use of mobile technologies.

Design/methodology/approach

A empirical study has been conducted on a sample of international firms operating in the food sector as retailers (i.e. restaurants, bar and catering services) or in similar activities (i.e. hotels and accommodations). The authors tested an empirical model aimed at revealing the possible mediating role of customer cooperation in affecting the impact of food waste enablers on (1) waste recovery measures and (2) the adoption of mobile technologies for food recovery.

Findings

The results of this study showed how customer cooperation mediates the impact of food waste enablers on the intention to use mobile applications for food recovery but not on the adoption of food recovery measures that, instead, mainly depends on waste causes internal to the firm.

Originality/value

This is one of the first studies that tries to identify and evaluate the impact of the different enablers of food waste on firms' pro-environmental behaviors. Interestingly, the authors show how customer cooperation is a decisive factor to promote new forms of CC in the food industry. Importantly, customer cooperation acts as a bridge between the drivers of food waste and a firm's intention to adopt measures against it. By actively involving customers, firms can gain insights, develop effective strategies and foster a culture of waste reduction that benefits both the business and the environment.
A systematic review on sustainable E-waste management: challenges, circular economy practices, and a conceptual framework
Authors: Gaur Tejendra Singh , Yadav Vinod , Mittal Sameer , Sharma Milind Kumar
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Waste generated from electrical and electronic equipment, collectively known as E-waste, remains a persistent environmental, economic and social problem. Sustainable E-waste management (EWM) has numerous benefits, such as preventing electronic waste from entering landfills, reducing the need for virgin materials by recovering valuable materials from recycling and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Circular economy (CE) practices are considered the initial steps toward sustainable EWM, but some hurdles have been reported in the adoption of these practices. Therefore, the current study aims to identify the common CE practices, sustainability of the EWM process and the challenges in EWM, and to develop a conceptual framework for effective EWM.

Design/methodology/approach

Very few studies have proposed frameworks that acknowledge the challenges and CE practices of EWM. To fill this gap, a systematic literature review (SLR) was performed, and 169 research articles were explored.

Findings

A total of seven challenges in the adoption of effective EWM were identified: rules and policy, infrastructure, consumer behaviour, informal sectors, community culture, technology and economy. Eight common CE practices were also found for effective EWM: reuse, recycle, remanufacturing, refurbishment, repair, reduce, recover and repurpose.

Originality/value

A conceptual framework guiding sustainable EWM was proposed, which includes solutions for the identified challenges, and CE practices with sustainable benefits.
Enhancing the assessment and the feedback in higher education
Authors: Gomis Kasun , Saini Mandeep , Arif Mohammed , Pathirage Chaminda
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Lack of appropriate student support and drawbacks in academic progression signify the importance of enhancing assessment and feedback in higher education (HE). Although assessment and feedback are significant in HE, minimal empirical research holistically explores the best practices. This study aims to address the niche and develop a decisive guideline for enhancing assessment setting and feedback provision within HE curricula.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic approach was taken to obtain data for the study: a literature review underpinning the thematic content analysis of study documents, followed by semi-structured interviews. Document analysis contained mid-module reviews/student feedback; rubrics used in assessment; and formative/summative feedback provided for the graded work. Documental analysis informed the key attributes of the semi-structured interview. Interpretive structural modelling (ISM) analysis identified the influence and reliance of each driver.

Findings

This study revealed 15 drivers – 4 fundamental, 6 significant and 5 important – for enhancing assessment and feedback. The level partitioning from the ISM analysis established that all assessment and feedback needs to be underpinned by the university policy and fed into the assessment regime and marking scheme. This study identified that National Student Survey results were significantly improved due to implementing said drivers compared with the national and sector benchmarks.

Practical implications

The developed drivers enable the best practices in assessment setting and feedback provision. The level partition diagram can be used as a decisive guideline or a provisional framework in assessment and feedback provision for quality assurance in HE.

Originality/value

This study is one of, if not the only, to develop a guideline for signposting drivers and their influence and reliance to enhance assessment and feedback in a holistic HE setting. The developed drivers and the level partition diagram bring novelty and add to the current body of knowledge.