bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of app icon familiarity and authority on app icon image fit and usage intention: focusing on the moderating effects of app icon features and app type
Authors: Bai Hao-Yue , Bao Yi-Wen , Kim Jung-Hee
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This research delves into the dynamic realm of app design by examining the impact of app icon familiarity and authority on image fit, influencing users' app usage intention. Focusing on the distinctive circumstances of Chinese and Korean customers, the study aims to provide insightful information about how application user behavior changes.

Design/methodology/approach

Utilizing structural equation modeling, the study employs data from 293 Korean and Chinese consumers. The research design incorporates a thoughtful approach, including parallel translation methods, focus group interviews, and pre-experimental testing to ensure survey accuracy and validity. The study strategically selects stimuli from the Apple App Store rankings, emphasizing icon features and type considerations.

Findings

The results provide important new information about the connections between usage intention, image fit, authority, and familiarity with app icons. Notably, app icon familiarity and authority positively influence image fit. Furthermore, app icon image fit emerges as a positive predictor of usage intention, mediating the complex interplay between familiarity, authority, and intention. The study also identifies moderating effects, shedding light on the nuanced role of app icon features and types.

Originality/value

Originating from a comprehensive exploration of icons, this study significantly contributes to the field by exploring icon differences and uncovering the intricate mechanisms guiding users' decisions. The findings offer valuable insights for app designers, marketers, and researchers seeking a deeper understanding of user behavior in diverse cultural contexts, thereby enhancing the theoretical and practical foundations in app usability and consumer behavior.
Alan Fox and the managerial “unitary” frame of reference in unionised companies: context, roots, elaboration and international applicability
Authors: Lyddon Dave , Cao Xuebing
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the origins and elaboration of the managerial “unitary” frame of reference associated with Alan Fox, focusing on unionised firms: the industrial relations context, intellectual roots, elaboration, adaptation by other writers, and international applicability.

Design/methodology/approach

Tracing the above requirements through contemporaneous sources.

Findings

Fox’s designation of the unitary frame needs to be understood in its 1960s’ context, particularly the promotion of “productivity bargaining”, and its furthering through management training and education. Fox’s specific contribution is identified. Subsequent UK writers have underplayed the importance of the legal dimension of managerial authority, especially relevant in the US context, while other extra-economic factors bolster the managerial unitary frame in authoritarian societies such as China.

Originality/value

The use of Fox's neglected 1960s’ writings; tracking how Fox developed the unitary frame concept and how it was funnelled into the narrow parameters of non-unionism by subsequent writers; identifying its applicability beyond the UK (with the USA as a historical example and China as a contemporary one).
An innovative sanitary fixture for performing ablution in public facilities
Authors: Mokhtar Ahmed Hanafi
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to introduce the design and the design process for an innovative sanitary fixture to be used in public facilities for the purpose of ablution. This purpose-made fixture is needed to support the hygienic, safe and comfortable performance of this essential function in public facilities in many parts of the world. The study also clarifies the need for this function and critically reviews current designs to address it.

Design/methodology/approach

The study started by critically reviewing the standard built-in models for ablution. It also identified and analyzed new approaches to designing standalone ablution fixtures. The study then specified the characteristics of a better ablution fixture and involved drafting a design based on these characteristics, making a wooden prototype to test the design and receiving users’ feedback. The design was adjusted and tested again for more feedback. Finally, the study resulted in the development of a final design. It used digital fabrication to create the design prototype with improved aesthetics, tested it again and received user feedback.

Findings

A survey of users showed that they found the innovative fixture more comfortable and safer than the commonly used built-in models. The main concern was the potential for water to splash on clothes from the high faucet.

Originality/value

In addition to showing an innovative design for a purpose-made sanitary fixture for ablution, the study makes the reader aware of the various challenges of providing a hygienic, safe and comfortable facility for users to perform this function. This is very useful for the many designers and facility managers who deal with the issue.
Determinants of e-commerce customer satisfaction: mediating role of IT innovation acceptance
Authors: Sayem S.M. , Islam Azharul , Uddin Mohammad Rajib , Promy Jarin Sadia
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The study aims to identify the determinants of customer satisfaction in the electronic commerce (e-commerce) industry in Bangladesh. It also investigates whether acceptance of IT innovation mediates the relationship between the determinants of e-commerce and customer satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey questionnaire had been designed and distributed among the customers of e-commerce businesses. Data were collected from 408 respondents, who were mostly from urban areas of the country. The collected data had been analysed with the application of the partial least square approach using SmartPLS4. First, the measurement model was applied to determine the validity and reliability of the dataset. Then, the structural model was utilized to justify the hypothesis.

Findings

The results showed that customer service, perceived ease of use and customer trust in e-commerce services have a significant positive impact on customer satisfaction. The acceptance of IT innovation, which showed a positive influence on customer satisfaction, enhanced customer satisfaction when accompanied by perceived ease of use and digital literacy.

Practical implications

The results would have valuable insight for the e-commerce business in designing their products and services and taking policies to achieve long-term customer loyalty.

Originality/value

This is the first study that incorporates IT innovation acceptance as a mediating variable. Although a number of factors have been identified as the determinants of customer satisfaction, the specific mechanism of IT innovation acceptance as a mediator between predictors and customer satisfaction is unique in this study.
Economy or premium? A systematic review of factors influencing retailers’ own product brand strategies
Authors: Chen Shaoyuan , Wang Pengji , Wood Jacob
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Grounded in strategic fit theory, this study aims to identify external and internal factors that influence retailers’ strategic choices regarding their own product brands. Furthermore, it seeks to explore the variations between different own product brand strategies in achieving both external and internal strategic fit.

Design/methodology/approach

The systematic review method, incorporating a thematic analysis, was adopted, and 318 articles were included for review.

Findings

The factors that influence retailers’ strategic choices regarding their own product brands encompass a range of external macro and industrial environmental factors, along with various internal resource and capability factors. Moreover, the effects of these factors vary across different own product brand strategies.

Originality/value

To our knowledge, this is the first systematic review of research on retailers’ own product brands from a strategic management perspective, offering systematic and structured guidance for retailers.
Bio-based lubricant with additives: tribological performances in hydrodynamic journal bearing
Authors: Norazman Amanda , Paiman Zulhanafi , Samion Syahrullail , Muhammad Yazid Muhammad Noor Afiq Witri , Rasep Zuraidah
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the performance of bio-based lubricants (BBL), namely, palm mid-olein (PMO) enriched with an antioxidant agent, tertiary-butylhydroquinone (TBHQ) and a viscosity improver, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), in journal bearing (JB) applications.

Design/methodology/approach

Samples of the BBL were prepared by blending it with TBHQ and EVA at various blending ratios. The oxidative stability (OS) and viscosity of the BBL samples were examined using differential scanning calorimetry and a viscometer, respectively. Meanwhile, their performance in JB applications was evaluated through the use of a JB test rig with a 0.5 length-to-diameter ratio at various operating conditions.

Findings

It was found that the combination of PMO + TBHQ + EVA demonstrated a superior oil film pressure and load-carrying capacity, resulting in a reduced friction coefficient and a smaller attitude angle compared to the use of only PMO or VG68. However, it was observed that the addition of TBHQ and EVA to the PMO did not have a significant impact on the minimum oil film thickness.

Practical implications

The results would be quite useful for researchers generally and designers of bearings in particular.

Originality/value

This study used PMO as the base stock, and its compatibility with TBHQ and EVA was investigated in terms of its OS and viscosity. The performance of this treated BBL was evaluated in a hydrodynamic JB.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-11-2023-0363/
Technological innovation and environmental performance: evidence from China
Authors: Wu Yuying , Zhang Min , Wang Zhiqiang
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study empirically investigates the impacts of technological innovation and operational efficiency on environmental performance and the moderating effects of environmental orientation.

Design/methodology/approach

We develop a conceptual framework based on the Porter Hypothesis. We collect a sample of 850 listed firms in China between 2010 and 2019. The fixed effect model was used to analyse the data.

Findings

The empirical findings reveal that technological innovation indirectly enhances environmental performance through operational efficiency and partially mediates this impact. We also find that environmental orientation strengthens the positive impacts of technological innovation and operational efficiency on environmental performance.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by revealing that technological innovation is positively associated with operational efficiency and environmental performance, which suggests that technological innovation can simultaneously enhance business and environmental performance. Hence, this study provides empirical support for the Porter Hypothesis. The results also extend the Porter Hypothesis by revealing how technological innovation affects environmental performance and under what conditions technological innovation has a greater impact on environmental performance.
Intellectual capital’s contribution to higher education of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities: a qualitative study
Authors: Almuaqel Ibraheem Abdulaziz
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The study aims to qualitatively analyze how faculty can mobilize the intellectual capital of higher education institutions (HEIs), comprising human, structural and relational capital to enable the education and learning of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing upon the extant literature, the researcher conducted a qualitative study through written, in-depth interviews with a sample of 40 academic staff/faculty members having prior experience in teaching individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The data was collected through a set of questions formulated as key questions, to be asked to all participants for their responses.

Findings

Results of the analysis demonstrated that intellectual capital’s contribution to higher education of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities can be best understood in terms of its three components/dimensions. Accordingly, three main themes, with each comprising two sub-themes were uncovered. The first theme, leveraging human capital comprised: faculty acumen and faculty training as sub-themes; the second theme, resourcing structural capital comprised: tangible and intangible structural capital as sub-themes; and the third theme, nurturing relational capital comprised: in-class engagement and the second is ex-class connection as sub-themes.

Originality/value

The paper collects data from 40 faculty having prior experience in teaching individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to explore and reveal a completely new perspective of looking at intellectual capital as a means of providing accessible and inclusive higher education to differently-abled students, making them a part of the mainstream.
Investigating the impact of smart manufacturing and interconnected emerging technologies in building smarter supply chains
Authors: Kandarkar Prajakta Chandrakant , Ravi V.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Industry 4.0 has put forward a smart perspective on managing supply chain networks and their operations. The current manufacturing system is primarily data-driven. Industries are deploying new emerging technologies in their operations to build a competitive edge in the business environment; however, the true potential of smart manufacturing has not yet been fully unveiled. This research aims to extensively analyse emerging technologies and their interconnection with smart manufacturing in developing smarter supply chains.

Design/methodology/approach

This research endeavours to establish a conceptual framework for a smart supply chain. A real case study on a smart factory is conducted to demonstrate the validity of this framework for building smarter supply chains. A comparative analysis is carried out between conventional and smart supply chains to ascertain the advantages of smart supply chains. In addition, a thorough investigation of the several factors needed to transition from smart to smarter supply chains is undertaken.

Findings

The integration of smart technology exemplifies the ability to improve the efficiency of supply chain operations. Research findings indicate that transitioning to a smart factory radically enhances productivity, quality assurance, data privacy and labour efficiency. The outcomes of this research will help academic and industrial sectors critically comprehend technological breakthroughs and their applications in smart supply chains.

Originality/value

This study highlights the implications of incorporating smart technologies into supply chain operations, specifically in smart purchasing, smart factory operations, smart warehousing and smart customer performance. A paradigm transition from conventional, smart to smarter supply chains offers a comprehensive perspective on the evolving dynamics in automation, optimisation and manufacturing technology domains, ultimately leading to the emergence of Industry 5.0.
Navigating complexity with motivational interviewing: implications of change talk strategies for leadership educators in communities of practice
Authors: Thirupal Manojprabhakaran , Popa Adrian B.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper investigates the change talk (CT) strategies of the motivational interviewing (MI) technique and their relevance in achieving change goals within communities of practice (CoP), focusing on addressing real-world problems in today's complex world.

Design/methodology/approach

We employ a literature review and conceptual analysis to study the interactions and potential areas of complement between CT, MI and CoP theories.

Findings

This paper combines CT, MI and CoP theories to develop an integrated model called Facilitative Change Talk Leadership (FCTL).

Originality/value

This paper provides an innovative model (FCTL) to inform leadership educators about facilitating communities of practice. We provide a hypothetical case study to suggest how FCTL might foster collaborative inquiry and resilience amidst complex challenges. This case study illustrates a practical pathway for leadership educators and community practitioners to use this model in their own contexts.
Advancing a theoretical framework for exploring heuristics and biases within HR decision-making contexts
Authors: Hunt Anthony K. , Wang Jia , Alizadeh Amin , Pucelj Maja
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to provide an elucidative and explanatory overview of decision-making theory that human resource management and development (HR) researchers and practitioners can use to explore the impact of heuristics and biases on organizational decisions, particularly within HR contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper draws upon three theoretical resources anchored in decision-making research: the theory of bounded rationality, the heuristics and biases program, and cognitive-experiential self-theory (CEST). A selective narrative review approach was adopted to identify, translate, and contextualize research findings that provide immense applicability, connection, and significance to the field and study of HR.

Findings

The authors extract key insights from the theoretical resources surveyed and illustrate the linkages between HR and decision-making research, presenting a theoretical framework to guide future research endeavors.

Practical implications

Decades of decision-making research have been distilled into a digestible and accessible framework that offers both theoretical and practical implications.

Originality/value

Heuristics are mental shortcuts that facilitate quick decisions by simplifying complexity and reducing effort needed to solve problems. Heuristic strategies can yield favorable outcomes, especially amid time and information constraints. However, heuristics can also introduce systematic judgment errors known as biases. Biases are pervasive within organizational settings and can lead to disastrous decisions. This paper provides HR scholars and professionals with a balanced, nuanced, and integrative framework to better understand heuristics and biases and explore their organizational impact. To that end, a forward-looking and direction-setting research agenda is presented.
Scrutinizing the level of awareness and adoption of distributed ledger technology in the Nigerian construction industry
Authors: Aliu John , Oke Ayodeji Emmanuel , Akinwumi Isaac I. , Abdulazeez Kanya Rislan , Uyi Ehiosun Lydia
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate and analyze the level of awareness and adoption of distributed ledger technologies (DLTs) within the Nigerian construction industry. The focus was on addressing the current state of DLT utilization, identifying challenges and opportunities and proposing strategies to enhance the integration of DLTs into the construction processes and practices of Nigerian professionals and organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was underpinned by a robust theoretical and conceptual framework, drawing from established theories of technology adoption. A comprehensive literature review guided the identification of various DLT types. This informed the development of a well-structured questionnaire, which was then distributed to Nigerian construction professionals. The collected data underwent analysis using percentages, frequencies, mean scores, the Kruskal–Wallis H-test and the Shapiro–Wilk test.

Findings

A significant finding of this study reveals a generally low awareness and implementation of DLT among construction professionals in Nigeria. These findings emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to bridge the gap between awareness and adoption of DLT within the Nigerian construction industry.

Practical implications

Industry associations, regulatory bodies and educational institutions can collaborate to develop specialized programs aimed at familiarizing professionals with the benefits and applications of DLTs. Additionally, technology providers and policymakers can leverage these findings to design user-friendly interfaces and guidelines for seamless DLT integration into construction processes.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing a comprehensive assessment of the awareness and adoption of DLTs specifically within the Nigerian construction industry. While the global recognition of DLT’s potential in construction is acknowledged, this research delves into a regional context, shedding light on the specific opportunities within Nigeria. Furthermore, the study’s identification of a gap between awareness and implementation highlights a critical area for future exploration and development in the field of construction technology adoption.
Facial emotion recognition research in the hospitality and tourism industry: a thematic content analysis
Authors: Kement Uzeyir , Cavusoglu Muhittin , Başar Berkan , Tomris Küçün Nihan
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to conduct a thematic content analysis of facial emotion recognition (FER) research within the context of the hospitality and tourism industry. Through this analysis, the study aims to identify key themes, trends and implications of the utilization of FER technology in enhancing customer emotions and experiences within hospitality and tourism settings.

Design/methodology/approach

This is qualitative research that utilizes thematic content analysis. The research data were obtained from the Scopus database. A total of 45 articles (titles, abstracts and keywords) were coded into MAXQDA and VOSWiever programs for data analyses and mapping.

Findings

Based on the analyses, the predominant term used in titles was emotion, indicating its centrality in the research domain. Moreover, the most prevalent concepts in this field were emotion and experience. Notably, facial emotion recognition emerged as the most frequently utilized term within this context. Within the hospitality and tourism industry, FER was primarily employed within the travel sub-branch. Finally, the research culminated in the visualization of the theoretical framework and conceptual background, offering a comprehensive overview of the field.

Originality/value

There is a growing demand for using FER technology specifically within the hospitality and tourism industry context; therefore, growing scientific research has been conducted on this topic recently. By conducting a thematic content analysis, this study uncovered novel insights into the utilization of this technology to enhance customer emotions and experiences, thereby contributing to a deeper understanding of its potential implications and applications within the hospitality and tourism industry.
Body image and pelvic floor dysfunction in pregnancy and postpartum: A prospective one‐year follow‐up cohort study
Authors: Cattani Laura , Van Schoubroeck Dominique , De Bruyn Christine , Ghesquière Sophie , Deprest Jan
Published: April 2024

Objective

To determine the prevalence of pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) among pregnant women, their clustering and their association with body image disturbance (BID) up to 1 year postpartum.

Design

Monocentric prospective cohort study.

Setting

University Hospitals Leuven.

Population

Pregnant women attending for pregnancy care, first assessed prior to 14 weeks of gestation and agreeing to follow‐up until 1 year postpartum.

Methods

Standardised questionnaires reporting on PFD and BID at 12–14 and 28–32 weeks of gestation, and again at 6–8 weeks and 1 year postpartum. We calculated the prevalence of PFD, how the cases clustered and how the cases correlated with BID using a linear mixed‐model analysis. A minimum of 174 women with complete follow‐up were required.

Main Outcome Measures

The questionnaires used were the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire – Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ‐UI SF), St. Mark's Incontinence Score (SMIS), Patient Assessment of Constipation Symptoms (PAC‐SYM), Pelvic Organ Prolapse Distress Inventory (POPDI), Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire IUGA Revised (PISQ‐IR) and the Body Image Disturbance Questionnaire (BIDQ).

Results

Out of 208 women, 92.8% reported one or multiple symptoms of PFD at 28–32 weeks of gestation, dropping to 73.6% by 1 year postpartum. The most common symptoms were constipation (65.3% at 28–32 weeks of gestation and 42.8% at 1 year postpartum) and urinary incontinence (56.8% at 28–32 weeks of gestation and 35.1% at 1 year postpartum). After correcting for body mass index, parity and mode of delivery, the severity of BID was associated with the ICIQ‐UI SF score (β = 0.016, range 0.007–0.024), the PAC‐SYM score (β = 0.006, range 0.002–0.011) and the POPDI score (β = 0.009, range 0.005–0.012), but not with the SMIS score (β = 0.015, range −0.001 to 0.031) or the PISQ‐IR score, in sexually active women.

Conclusions

Urinary incontinence, constipation and symptoms of prolapse have a measurable impact on BID.
Obstetric anal sphincter injury in the second birth after perineal wound complication in the first birth: A nationwide register cohort study
Authors: Rygaard Agnes , Jonsson Maria , Wikström Anna‐Karin , Brismar‐Wendel Sophia , Hesselman Susanne
Published: April 2024

Objective

To investigate whether perineal wound complications in the first birth, alone or in conjunction with obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI), is associated with an increased risk of OASI in the second birth.

Design

Nationwide population‐based cohort study.

Setting

Sweden.

Population

Women (n = 411 317) with first and second singleton vaginal births in Sweden, 2001–2019.

Methods

Data on diagnostic codes and surgical procedures were retrieved from the Swedish Medical Birth Register and the Swedish Patient Register. A perineal wound complication was defined as wound infection, dehiscence or perineal haematoma within 2 months of childbirth.

Main outcome measures

Associations between wound complications in the first birth and OASI in the second birth were investigated with logistic regression and presented as adjusted odds ratios (aORs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs).

Results

In total, 2619 (0.6%) women had a wound complication in the first birth, and 5318 (1.3%) had an OASI in the second birth. Women with a wound complication but no OASI in the first birth had more than doubled odds of OASI in the second birth (aOR 2.73, 95% CI 2.11–3.53). Women with OASI and a wound complication in the first birth had almost tenfold odds (aOR 9.97, 95% CI 6.53–15.24) of recurrent OASI.

Conclusions

Perineal wound complication in the first birth increases the likelihood of OASI in a subsequent birth.
Toxicodynamic of combined mycotoxins: MicroRNAs and acute‐phase proteins as diagnostic biomarkers
Authors: Murtaza Bilal , Li Xiaoyu , Nawaz Muhammad Yasir , Saleemi Muhammad Kashif , Li Gen , Jin Bowen , Wang Lili , Xu Yongping
Published: April 2024

Mycotoxins, ubiquitous contaminants in food, present a global threat to human health and well‐being. Mitigation efforts, such as the implementation of sound agricultural practices, thorough food processing, and the advancement of mycotoxin control technologies, have been instrumental in reducing mycotoxin exposure and associated toxicity. To comprehensively assess mycotoxins and their toxicodynamic implications, the deployment of effective and predictive strategies is imperative. Understanding the manner of action, transformation, and cumulative toxic effects of mycotoxins, moreover, their interactions with food matrices can be gleaned through gene expression and transcriptome analyses at cellular and molecular levels. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) govern the expression of target genes and enzymes that play pivotal roles in physiological, pathological, and toxicological responses, whereas acute phase proteins (APPs) exert regulatory control over the metabolism of therapeutic agents, both endogenously and posttranscriptionally. Consequently, this review aims to consolidate current knowledge concerning the regulatory role of miRNAs in the initiation of toxicological pathways by mycotoxins and explores the potential of APPs as biomarkers following mycotoxin exposure. The findings of this research highlight the potential utility of miRNAs and APPs as indicators for the detection and management of mycotoxins in food through biological processes. These markers offer promising avenues for enhancing the safety and quality of food products.
Domestic food practice and vessel‐use at Salūt‐ST1, central Oman, during the Umm an‐Nar period
Authors: Suryanarayan Akshyeta , Degli Esposti Michele , Méry Sophie , Strolin Laura , Mazuy Arnaud , Moraleda‐Cibrián Nuria , Villanueva Joan , Regert Martine
Published: April 2024

Investigations into everyday food practices during the Umm an‐Nar period (c.2700–2000 bc) in the Oman Peninsula are limited. We studied lipid residues in pottery from Salūt‐ST1, an Umm an‐Nar stone tower in central Oman, to understand domestic practices and vessel use in locally‐produced Sandy Wares, regionally‐produced Fine Red Omani Wares and imported Indus Black‐Slipped Jars between c. 2460–2150 bc. Degraded animal fats were found in a majority of the vessels, and we report the first direct detection of dairy products in Umm an‐Nar vessels. The use of non‐ruminant fats, plants and/or mixtures of different products is also suggested. Variations in lipid concentrations and contents of Fine Red Omani Wares and Sandy Wares suggest different uses for these vessel categories. Finally, the detection of a range of products (ruminant meat, dairy fats, non‐ruminant fats and mixtures) in Indus Black‐Slipped Jars from the site indicates vessel multifunctionality and reuse of the vessels.
Autophagy gene expression in skeletal muscle of older individuals is associated with physical performance, muscle volume and mitochondrial function in the study of muscle, mobility and aging (SOMMA)
Authors: Coen Paul M. , Huo Zhiguang , Tranah Gregory J. , Barnes Haley N. , Zhang Xiping , Wolff Christopher A. , Wu Kevin , Cawthon Peggy M. , Hepple Russell T. , Toledo Frederico G. S. , Evans Daniel S. , Santiago‐Fernández Olaya , Cuervo Ana Maria , Kritchevsky Stephen B. , Newman Anne B. , Cummings Steven R. , Esser Karyn A.
Published: April 2024

Autophagy is essential for proteostasis, energetic balance, and cell defense and is a key pathway in aging. Identifying associations between autophagy gene expression patterns in skeletal muscle and physical performance outcomes would further our knowledge of mechanisms related with proteostasis and healthy aging. Muscle biopsies were obtained from participants in the Study of Muscle, Mobility, and Aging (SOMMA). For 575 participants, RNA was sequenced and expression of 281 genes related to autophagy regulation, mitophagy, and mTOR/upstream pathways was determined. Associations between gene expression and outcomes including mitochondrial respiration in muscle fiber bundles (MAX OXPHOS), physical performance (VO2 peak, 400 m walking speed, and leg power), and thigh muscle volume, were determined using negative binomial regression models. For autophagy, key transcriptional regulators including TFE3 and NFKB‐related genes (RELA, RELB, and NFKB1) were negatively associated with outcomes. On the contrary, regulators of oxidative metabolism that also promote overall autophagy, mitophagy, and pexophagy (PPARGC1A, PPARA, and EPAS1) were positively associated with multiple outcomes. In line with this, several mitophagy, fusion, and fission‐related genes (NIPSNAP2, DNM1L, and OPA1) were also positively associated with outcomes. For mTOR pathway and related genes, expression of WDR59 and WDR24, both subunits of GATOR2 complex (an indirect inhibitor of mTORC1), and PRKAG3, which is a regulatory subunit of AMPK, were negatively correlated with multiple outcomes. Our study identifies autophagy and selective autophagy such as mitophagy gene expression patterns in human skeletal muscle related to physical performance, muscle volume, and mitochondrial function in older persons which may lead to target identification to preserve mobility and independence.
Sex‐dependent responses to high concentration of binge ethanol in spleen of adolescent F344 rats
Authors: Liu Xiangqian , Huang Wenfei , Bishir Muhammed , Hodgkinson Colin , Goldman David , Chang Sulie L.
Published: April 2024

Background

We previously reported that binge ethanol induces atrophy of the spleen, a key immune organ, in adolescent male F344 rats. Because there are significant sex effects in immune function, we investigated whether binge ethanol exerts sex‐dependent effects on the spleen, including producing splenic atrophy.

Methods

We gave F344 rats ethanol (4.8 g/kg/day; 52% w/v; i.g.) on postnatal days [PND] 36 ~ 38 and sacrificed them on PND 39 for spleen collection. We performed immunophenotyping analysis of splenic cells and examined the expression of 158 genes related to alcohol metabolism, epigenetic modification, and immune regulation in the spleens of adolescent (PND 39) male and female rats.

Results

Following a 3‐day ethanol exposure, a loss of body weight, and absolute and relative spleen weight, was seen only in male adolescent rats. Ethanol altered the relative proportions of lymphocyte subtypes in both sexes with different patterns. We also found that 3‐day ethanol exposure induced sex‐dependent gene expression changes in spleen. Among the 158 genes studied, the expression of only three genes was significantly increased in female rats. However, the expression of 30 genes was significantly increased/decreased in male rats. Female rats had greater expression of alcohol metabolizing enzyme genes in the spleen under physiological conditions and when stimulated by binge ethanol. The genes are involved in epigenetic modification were differentially expressed in a sex‐dependent manner.

Conclusion

We found that male adolescent rats were more sensitive to binge ethanol than female rats. Differential expression of the genes related to alcohol metabolism and epigenetic modification (of DNA methyltransferase and histone deacetylases) between the sexes could account for the observed sex‐dependent responses to binge ethanol in adolescent rats.
Liraglutide 3.0 mg once daily for the treatment of overweight and obesity in patients hospitalised at a forensic psychiatric department: A 26‐week open‐label feasibility study
Authors: Sass Marie Reeberg , Christensen Anne Mette Brandt , Christensen Margit Lykke , Gruber Ema , Nerdrum Helle , Pedersen Lone Marianne , Resch Maximilian , Jørgensen Troels Højsgaard , Ekstrøm Claus T. , Nielsen Jimmi , Vilsbøll Tina , Fink‐Jensen Anders
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Overweight and obesity constitute a major concern among patients treated at forensic psychiatric departments. The present clinical feasibility study aimed at investigating the extent to which glucagon‐like peptide 1 receptor agonist (GLP‐1RA) treatment with once‐daily liraglutide 3.0 mg could be a feasible pharmacological treatment of these conditions in patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders hospitalised in forensic psychiatry.

Methods

The 26‐week, open‐label feasibility study included participants aged 18–65 years diagnosed with a severe mental illness and hospitalised at a forensic psychiatric department. At the time of inclusion, all participants fulfilled the indication for using liraglutide as a treatment for overweight and obesity. Participants' baseline examinations were followed by a 26‐week treatment period with liraglutide injection once daily according to a fixed uptitration schedule of liraglutide, with a target dose of 3.0 mg. Each participant attended seven visits to evaluate the efficacy and adverse events. The primary endpoint was the number of “completers”, with adherence defined as >80% injections obtained in the period, weeks 12–26. Determining whether liraglutide is a feasible treatment was pre‐defined to a minimum of 75% completers.

Results

Twenty‐four participants were included in the study. Sex, male = 19 (79.2%). Mean age: 42.3 [25th and 75th percentiles: 39.1; 48.4] years; body mass index (BMI): 35.7 [31.7; 37.5] kg/m2; glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c): 37 [35; 39] mmol/mol. Eleven out of 24 participants (46%) completed the study. For the completers, the median net body weight loss after 26 weeks of participation was −11.4 kg [−15.4; −5.9]. The net difference in HbA1C and BMI was −2.0 mmol/mol [−4; −1] and −3.6 kg/m2 [−4.7; −1.8], respectively. The weight change and reduction in HbA1c and BMI were all statistically significant from baseline.

Conclusion

The study did not confirm our hypothesis that liraglutide is a feasible treatment for a minimum of 75% of the patients initiating treatment with liraglutide while hospitalised in a forensic psychiatric department. The high dropout rate may be due to the non‐naturalistic setting of the clinical trial. For the proportion of patients compliant with the medication, liraglutide 3.0 mg was an efficient treatment for overweight.
Prevalence of opioid dependence in Scotland 2015–2020: A multi‐parameter estimation of prevalence (MPEP) study
Authors: Markoulidakis Andreas , Hickman Matthew , McAuley Andrew , Barnsdale Lee R. , Welton Nicky J. , Glancy Megan , Shivaji Tara , Collins Craig , Lang Jaroslaw , de Wit Femke , Hunt Gordon , Wilkinson Levin , Fraser Rosalyn , Yeung Alan , Horsburgh Kirsten , Priyadarshi Saket , Hutchinson Sharon J. , Jones Hayley E.
Published: April 2024

Background and aims

Drug‐related deaths in Scotland more than doubled between 2011 and 2020. To inform policymakers and understand drivers of this increase, we estimated the number of people with opioid dependence aged 15–64 from 2014/15 to 2019/20.

Design

We fitted a Bayesian multi‐parameter estimation of prevalence (MPEP) model, using adverse event rates to estimate prevalence of opioid dependence jointly from Opioid Agonist Therapy (OAT), opioid‐related mortality and hospital admissions data. Estimates are stratified by age group, sex and year.

Setting

Scotland, 2014/15 to 2019/20.

Participants

People with opioid dependence and potential to benefit from OAT, whether ever treated or not. Using data from the Scottish Public Health Drug Linkage Programme, we identified a baseline cohort of individuals who had received OAT within the last 5 years, and all opioid‐related deaths and hospital admissions (whether among or outside of this cohort).

Measurements

Rates of each adverse event type and (unobserved) prevalence were jointly modelled.

Findings

The estimated number and prevalence of people with opioid dependence in Scotland in 2019/20 was 47 100 (95% Credible Interval [CrI] 45 700 to 48 600) and 1.32% (95% CrI 1.28% to 1.37%). Of these, 61% received OAT during 2019/20. Prevalence in Greater Glasgow and Clyde was estimated as 1.77% (95% CrI 1.69% to 1.85%). There was weak evidence that overall prevalence fell slightly from 2014/15 (change −0.07%, 95% CrI ‐0.14% to 0.00%). The population of people with opioid dependence is ageing, with the estimated number of people aged 15–34 reducing by 5100 (95% CrI 3800 to 6400) and number aged 50–64 increasing by 2800 (95% CrI 2100 to 3500) between 2014/15 and 2019/20.

Conclusions

The prevalence of opioid dependence in Scotland remained high but was relatively stable, with only weak evidence of a small reduction, between 2014/15 and 2019/20. Increased numbers of opioid‐related deaths can be attributed to increased risk among people with opioid dependence, rather than increasing prevalence.
Giraffe productivity and calf survival in a savannah area outside an east African protected area: Implications for conservation
Authors: Becker C. Dustin , Campbell Petra Elisabeth , Kadane Leslie Ann , Nagut Reuben Kilutori , Kinata David Limpaso , Stevens Henry C.
Published: April 2024

Protection of nursery areas where newborn survival is successful is critical to recovery of endangered mammals. In Kenya, 2014 to 2022, we surveyed Endangered Masai giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis tippelskirchi) on the Siria Plateau at Oloirien Group Ranch (OGR) and Oloisukut Conservancy (OC), and in the Rift Valley's Mara Triangle Conservancy (MTC). MTC and OC have high lion densities while OGR does not. Using counts and photographic mark‐recapture (PMR), we estimated percentages of newborn (<3 months) and juvenile giraffe calves (<1 year) per adult female and per total giraffes sampled. Cormack‐Jolly‐Seber models were used to estimate annual survival of giraffes at OGR. The mean percentage of newborn calves: adult female at OGR (~18%) was significantly higher than at OC (3.3%) and MTC (0%). The mean juvenile: adult female percentage at the Siria Plateau sites was 62 ± 12.8% versus 12% in MTC. Total juvenile calves averaged 22% on the plateau, four times higher than MTC (5.3%). At OGR, giraffe survival for all ages and sexes was 0.86, higher than protected areas with lions. Only one female giraffe in 229 used both plateau sites, suggesting independent matrilines. Human‐populated savannah next to reserves contributes to giraffe recovery, but nursery areas like OGR need robust protection.
“Captains of the Sands”: Urban Illicit Ecologies and Sandscapes in Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Müller Frank I.
Published: April 2024

Urban Political Ecology (UPE) has explored human–soil relations, emphasising the political dimensions of environmental degradation in and through urbanisation. However, UPE lacks critical reflection on governance collusions with illicit actors. Bridging this gap, my paper combines UPE with literature on criminal urban governance, focusing on how urban sand shapes illicit urbanisation. To address UPE's oversight of criminal governance, I explore Rio de Janeiro's militias expanding their illegal portfolio through terrain modification, linking illicit activities to territorial control. Integrating criminal governance with UPE, I argue for the concept of Urban Illicit Ecologies (UIE). Urban sandscapes become multi‐sited, illicit geographies revealing imbrications of formal state and criminal actors, political dimensions, and inequalities in resource extraction and environmental processes. By understanding urban illicit ecology, we gain insights into the contested claims of political authority and territorial control between militias and the state.
Pride and prejudice: What influences Australians’ attitudes toward changing the date of Australia Day?
Authors: Mortimer‐Royle Eliza , Webb Steph , McLinton Sarven , Clark Yvonne L. , Watkins Michael
Published: April 2024

Australia Day, celebrated on January 26, is rooted in Australia's colonial history and causes pain for many of Australia's First Peoples. This study was the first to investigate predictors of Australians’ attitudes toward the date, while exploring whether intervention may improve attitudes toward a date‐change. An Australian community sample (N = 559) were recruited through social media for an anonymous survey. Participants indicated their support for date‐change, and responded to a variety of demographic (e.g., Age) and sociodemographic (e.g., Racism) questions, then being randomly allocated to an intervention statement, indicating their final attitudes post‐intervention. Findings suggest sociodemographic factors were more important predictors than demographics, with Racism (b*** = .50), Traditionalism (b** = .18), Patriotism (b* = .13), and Age (b* = .10) significantly predicting participants’ date‐change resistance. Racism demonstrated the most predictive strength, underscoring the importance of a date‐change, with those open to change often identifying any alternative date should not offend First Peoples. In addition, intervention produced significant improvement in participants’ date‐change attitudes, among those who were able to become more open to a date‐change; however, differences were not present between intervention conditions. This illuminates the factors predicting Australians’ attitudes toward Australia Day, while demonstrating a potential path toward date‐change through intervention.
The contribution of the labour practices to organizational performance: The mediating role of social sustainability
Authors: Nogueira Elisabete , Gomes Sofia , Lopes João M.
Published: April 2024

In the fiercely competitive global business environment, the attainment of excellence is contingent upon the efficient management of human resources and their alignment with sustainable development goals. This study examines the interplay between labour practices, social sustainability and organizational performance, with a focus on the often‐ignored perspectives of employees. Employees, often neglected as critical stakeholders, shape corporate values and strategy. The study uses a quantitative approach, having applied the partial least square method for the proposed research model. Questionnaire responses from 574 Portuguese employees reveal that labour practices (employee development, employee participation and equal opportunity) positively influence perceived social sustainability. Perceived social sustainability positively influences perceived organizational performance. The examined labour practices only exhibit a positive influence on perceived organizational performance when perceived social sustainability acts as a mediator. Companies must place a high priority on the perceptions of their employees to achieve social sustainability. This involves incorporating inclusive, participative and proactive policies regarding human resources policies, thereby leveraging the mutual advantages derived from labour practices. This demonstrates the pivotal role of social sustainability in companies' decision‐making processes, as it substantially contributes to enhancing organizational performance. This study emphasizes the importance of integrating social sustainability to maximize organizational performance, providing valuable insights for business leaders. The original model, social sustainability‐driven organizational performance, which is based on employees' perceptions, identifies labour practices as antecedents of social sustainability, and the influence of social sustainability, both directly and as a mediator, on organizational performance, is presented.