bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using gene complementation to identify a SulP-family bicarbonate transporter in an N2-fixing cyanobacterial endosymbiont of an open ocean diatom
Authors: Nieves-Morión Mercedes , Romero-García Rubén , Bardi Sepehr , López-Maury Luis , Hagemann Martin , Flores Enrique , Foster Rachel A.
Published: January 2024

Diatom-Diazotrophic Associations (DDAs) contribute significantly to new and primary production in the world’s oceans, yet the understanding of how production is sustained is poorly resolved. These symbioses involve diatoms and N2-fixing, heterocyst-forming cyanobacteria of the genusRichelia, both partners being photosynthetic.Richelia euintracellularisresides in the cytoplasm ofHemiaulus hauckii, whereasRichelia intracellularisis periplasmic inRhizosolenia clevei. In the ocean, bicarbonate is taken up by phytoplankton to provide CO2for photosynthesis. The genomes of bothRicheliaendobionts (ReuHH01 and RintRC01, respectively) contain genes encoding SulP-family proteins, which are oxyanion transporters. To study the possible involvement of these transporters in bicarbonate uptake, we used complementation of aSynechocystissp. PCC 6803 mutant with its five CO2uptake systems inactivated, which is unable to grow in air levels of CO2. Three genes from RintRC01 and one gene and a DNA fragment containing four partial gene sequences from ReuHH01 were chemically synthesized, cloned under the control of a strong gene promoter and incorporated in the chromosome of theSynechocystismutant. One gene from RintRC01, RintRC_3892, complemented theSynechocystismutant to grow with air levels of CO2or with low bicarbonate concentrations. The complemented strain showed strong sodium-dependent, low affinity bicarbonate uptake, which, together with phylogenetic analyses, identified RintRC_3892 as a BicA protein. Additionally, RintRC_3892 transcripts were consistently detected in environmental samples from three ocean basins. No evidence for a bicarbonate transporter was found, however, for ReuHH01, suggesting different strategies for inorganic carbon uptake in the periplasmic and cytoplasmic endobionts.
The lipidome and proteome of high-density lipoprotein are altered in menopause
Authors: Lehti Satu , Korhonen Tia-Marje , Soliymani Rabah , Ruhanen Hanna , Lähteenmäki Emilia , Palviainen Mari , Siljander Pia , Lalowski Maciej , Käkelä Reijo , Lehti Maarit , Laakkonen Eija K
Published: January 2024

High-density lipoprotein particles (HDL) possess anti-inflammatory, anti-thrombotic, cytoprotective, and anti-oxidative properties, thus protecting against cardiovascular diseases. Menopause is associated with changes in serum metabolome and HDL size distribution. We analyzed the protein and lipid composition of the HDL particles from pre-, peri-, and postmenopausal women (N=216) with nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry to get a deeper insight into the composition of HDL in different stages of menopause. Both particle size and composition differed; in perimenopause, the proportion of small HDL particles (8.7 nm on average) was higher, and the proportion of large HDL particles (12.1 nm on average) was lower than in pre- or postmenopause. In perimenopause, each particle size class was enriched with triacylglycerols, and the calculated lipid class ratio of triacylglycerol/cholesteryl ester was the highest within perimenopausal HDL particles. This potentially affects the HDL interaction with lipid-modifying enzymes. We also observed directionally opposite associations for HDL cholesteryl ester and unesterified cholesterol with systemic estradiol and follicle-stimulating hormone levels, especially regarding S-sized HDL particles, but not the hormone associations with HDL triacylglycerols. Perimenopausal HDL also exhibited a lower proportion of apolipoproteins (apoA-I, apoA-II, apoC-I, apoC-III, apoD and apoE) per particle than premenopausal or postmenopausal HDL. In summary, we found that premenopausal and postmenopausal HDL particles were compositionally similar and differed from perimenopausal ones. We suggest that menopause, and especially the unbalanced hormonal state in perimenopause, are reflected in the lipid and protein compositions of the HDL, which, in turn, may affect the functions of the HDL particle.
Comparative genomic analysis ofBradyrhizobiumstrains with natural variability in the efficiency of nitrogen fixation, competitiveness, and adaptation to stressful edaphoclimatic conditions
Authors: Klepa Milena Serenato , diCenzo George Colin , Hungria Mariangela
Published: January 2024

Bradyrhizobiumis known for its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen in symbiosis with agronomically important crops. This study focused on two groups of strains, each containing eight putative natural variants ofB. japonicumSEMIA 586 (=CNPSo 17) orB. diazoefficiensSEMIA 566 (=CNPSo 10), previously used as commercial inoculants for soybean crops in Brazil. We aimed to detect genetic variations that might be related to biological nitrogen fixation, competitiveness for nodule occupancy, and adaptation to the stressful conditions of the Brazilian Cerrado soils. High-quality genome assemblies were produced for all strains and used for comparative genomic analyses. The core genome phylogeny revealed that strains of each group are closely related, confirmed by high average nucleotide identity (ANI) values. However, variants accumulated divergences resulting from horizontal gene transfer (HGT), genomic rearrangements, and nucleotide polymorphisms. TheB. japonicumgroup presented a larger pangenome and a higher number of nucleotide polymorphisms than theB. diazoefficiensgroup, probably due to its longer adaptation time to the Cerrado soil. Interestingly, five strains of theB. japonicumgroup carry two plasmids. The genetic variability found in both groups is discussed in light of the observed differences in their nitrogen fixation capacity, competitiveness for nodule occupancy, and environmental adaptation.

SIGNIFICANCE

The two main reference strains for soybean inoculation in Brazil,B. japonicumCPAC 15 (=SEMIA 5079) andB. diazoefficiensCPAC 7 (=SEMIA 5080), have been considered highly competitive and highly efficient in nitrogen fixation, respectively. In this study, we obtained and analyzed the genomes of the parental and variant strains. We detected two plasmids in five strains and several genetic differences that might be related to adaptation to the stressful conditions of the soils of the Brazilian Cerrado biome. We also detected genetic variations in specific regions that may impact symbiotic nitrogen fixation. Our analysis contributes to new insights into evolution ofBradyrhizobium, and some of the identified differences may be applied as genetic markers to assist strain selection programs.
Sequencing coverage analysis for combinatorial DNA-based storage systems
Authors: Preuss Inbal , Galili Ben , Yakhini Zohar , Anavy Leon
Published: January 2024

This study introduces a novel model for analyzing and determining the required sequencing coverage in DNA-based data storage, focusing on combinatorial DNA encoding. We explore the application of the coupon collector model for combinatorial-letter reconstruction, post-sequencing, which ensure efficient data retrieval and error reduction. We use a Markov Chain model to compute the probability of error-free reconstruction. We develop theoretical bounds on the decoding probability and use empirical simulations to validate these bounds. The work contributes to the understanding of sequencing coverage in DNA-based data storage, offering insights into decoding complexity, error correction, and sequence reconstruction. We provide a Python package that takes the code design and other message parameters as input, and then computes the required read coverage to guarantee reconstruction at a given desired confidence.
Effective assessment of CD4+T cell Immunodominance patterns: impact of antigen processing and HLA restriction
Authors: Álvaro-Benito Miguel , Abualrous Esam T , Lingel Holger , Meltendorf Stefan , Holzapfel Jakob , Sticht Jana , Kuropka Benno , Clementi Cecilia , Kuppler Frank , Brunner-Weinzierl Monika C , Freund Christian
Published: January 2024

Identifying T cell epitopes is essential for studying and potentially tuning immune responses to pathogens. The polymorphic nature of major histocompatibility complex of class II (MHCII)-genes, and the complexity of the antigen processing mechanisms hinders the effective prediction of immunodominant patterns in humans, specially at the population level. Here, we combined the output of a reconstituted antigen processing system and ofin silicoprediction tools for SARS-CoV-2 antigens considering a broad-population coverage DRB1* panel to gain insights on immunodominance patterns. The two methods complement each other, and the resulting model improves upon single positive predictive values (PPV) from each of them to explain known epitopes. This model was used to design a minimalistic peptide pool (59 peptides) matching the performance reported for large overlapping peptide pools (> 500 peptides). Furthermore, almost 70 % of the candidates (23 peptides) selected for a frequent HLA background (DRB1*03:01/*07:01) feature immunodominant responsesex vivo, validating our platform for accessing T cell epitopes at the population level. The analysis of the impact of processing constraints reveals distinct impact of proteolysis and solvent accessible surface area on epitope selection depending on the antigen. Thus, considering these properties for antigens in question should improve available epitope prediction tools.
Previously hidden intraspecies dynamics underlie the apparent stability of two important skin microbiome species
Authors: Baker Jacob S. , Qu Evan , Mancuso Christopher P. , Tripp A. Delphine , Conwill Arolyn , Lieberman Tami D.
Published: January 2024

Adult human facial skin microbiomes are remarkably similar at the species-level, dominated byCutibacterium acnesandStaphylococcus epidermidis,yet each person harbors a unique community of strains. Understanding how person-specific communities assemble is critical for designing microbiome-based therapies. Here, using 4,055 isolate genomes and 360 metagenomes, we reconstruct on-person evolutionary history to reveal on and between-person strain dynamics. We find that multiple cells are typically involved in transmission, indicating ample opportunity for migration. Despite this accessibility, family members share only some of their strains.S. epidermidiscommunities are dynamic, with each strain persisting for an average of only 2 years.C. acnesstrains are more stable and have a higher colonization rate during the transition to an adult facial skin microbiome, suggesting this window could facilitate engraftment of therapeutic strains. These previously undetectable dynamics may influence the design of microbiome therapeutics and motivate the study of their effects on hosts.
Comparative genomic analysis ofPlanctomycetotapotential towards complex polysaccharide degradation identifies phylogenetically distinct groups of biotechnologically relevant microbes
Authors: Klimek Dominika , Herold Malte , Calusinska Magdalena
Published: January 2024

The outstanding hydrolytic potential of thePlanctomycetotaphylum for complex polysaccharide degradation has recently been acknowledged based on the numerous carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes) encoded in their genomes. However, mainly members of thePlanctomycetiaclass have been characterised up to now, and little is known about the degrading capacities of the otherPlanctomycetota. Our in-depth characterisation of the available planctomycetotal genomic resources increased our knowledge of the carbohydrolytic capacities ofPlanctomycetota. We showed that this single phylum encompasses a wide variety of the currently known CAZyme diversity assigned to glycoside hydrolase families, and that many members are characterised by a high versatility towards complex carbohydrate degradation, including lignocellulose. We also highlighted members of theIsosphaerales, Pirellulales, SedimentisphaeralesandTepidisphaeralesorders as having the highest encoded hydrolytic potential of thePlanctomycetota. Furthermore, members of a yet uncultivated group affiliated toPhycisphaeraleswere identified as an interesting source of novel, lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases that could boost lignocellulose degradation. Surprisingly, manyPlanctomycetotafrom anaerobic digestion reactors were shown to encode CAZymes targeting algal polysaccharides – this opens new perspectives for algal biomass valorisation in biogas processes. Our study provides a new perspective on planctomycetotal carbohydrolytic potential, highlighting distinct phylogenetic groups which could provide a wealth of diverse, potentially novel CAZymes of industrial interest.
Convergent reductive evolution of cyanobacteria in symbiosis with Dinophysiales dinoflagellates
Authors: Nakayama Takuro , Nomura Mami , Yabuki Akinori , Shiba Kogiku , Inaba Kazuo , Inagaki Yuji
Published: January 2024

The diversity of marine cyanobacteria has been extensively studied due to their vital roles in ocean primary production. However, little is understood about the diversity of cyanobacterial species involved in symbiotic relationships. In this study, we successfully sequenced the complete genome of a cyanobacterium in symbiosis withCitharistes regius, a dinoflagellate species thriving in the open ocean. A phylogenomic analysis revealed that the cyanobacterium (CregCyn) belongs to the marine picocyanobacterial lineage, akin to another cyanobacterial symbiont (OmCyn) of a different dinoflagellate closely related toCitharistes. Nevertheless, these two symbionts are distinct lineages, suggesting independent origins of their symbiotic lifestyles. Despite the distinct origins, the genome analyses of CregCyn revealed shared characteristics with OmCyn, including an obligate symbiotic relationship with the host dinoflagellates and a degree of genome reduction. In contrast, a detailed analysis of genome subregions unveiled that the CregCyn genome carries genomic islands that are not found in the OmCyn genome. The presence of the genomic islands implies that exogenous genes have been integrated into the CregCyn genome at some point in its evolution. This study contributes to our understanding of the complex history of the symbiosis between dinoflagellates and cyanobacteria, as well as the genomic diversity of marine picocyanobacteria.
Optoacoustic Cooling of Traveling Hypersound Waves
Authors: Blázquez Martínez Laura , Wiedemann Philipp , Zhu Changlong , Geilen Andreas , Stiller Birgit
Published: January 2024

We experimentally demonstrate optoacoustic cooling via stimulated Brillouin-Mandelstam scattering in a 50 cm long tapered photonic crystal fiber. For a 7.38 GHz acoustic mode, a cooling rate of 219 K from room temperature has been achieved. As anti-Stokes and Stokes Brillouin processes naturally break the symmetry of phonon cooling and heating, resolved sideband schemes are not necessary. The experiments pave the way to explore the classical to quantum transition for macroscopic objects and could enable new quantum technologies in terms of storage and repeater schemes.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Ultrahigh energy density BeN monolayer: A nodal-line semimetal anode for Li-ion batteries
Authors: Lin Shuyi , Xu Meiling , Wang Feilong , Hao Jian , Li Yinwei
Published: January 2024

Topological quantum materials have significant potential for application as anode materials due to their intrinsically high electronic conductivity against perturbation from defects or impurities. In this work, we utilize a combination of a swarm-intelligence structure search method and first-principles calculations to predict the global minimum of a BeN monolayer, suggesting it as a promising nodal-line semimetal anode for Li-ion batteries. BeN anode demonstrates a substantial specific capacity of 3489 mAh/g and a low average open-circuit voltage of 0.15 V, resulting in an ultrahigh energy density of 9681 mWh/g (referenced to the standard hydrogen electrode potential). This energy density represents the highest among all two-dimensional (2D) topological quantum anodes and surpasses that of most currently known 2D anode materials for Li-ion batteries. Furthermore, the formation of a vacancy in the BeN monolayer induces a unique “self-doping” effect that promotes high electronic conductivity. Additionally, the BeN monolayer exhibits a diffusion energy barrier of 0.30 eV for Li-ion migration, a small-scale area expansion of 0.96% during the process of lithiation, and excellent wettability with the contacted electrolytes.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Device-dependent click-through rate estimation in Google organic search results based on clicks and impressions data
Authors: Strzelecki Artur , Miklosik Andrej
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The landscape of search engine usage has evolved since the last known data were used to calculate click-through rate (CTR) values. The objective was to provide a replicable method for accessing data from the Google search engine using programmatic access and calculating CTR values from the retrieved data to show how the CTRs have changed since the last studies were published.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the authors present the estimated CTR values in organic search results based on actual clicks and impressions data, and establish a protocol for collecting this data using Google programmatic access. For this study, the authors collected data on 416,386 clicks, 31,648,226 impressions and 8,861,416 daily queries.

Findings

The results show that CTRs have decreased from previously reported values in both academic research and industry benchmarks. The estimates indicate that the top-ranked result in Google's organic search results features a CTR of 9.28%, followed by 5.82 and 3.11% for positions two and three, respectively. The authors also demonstrate that CTRs vary across various types of devices. On desktop devices, the CTR decreases steadily with each lower ranking position. On smartphones, the CTR starts high but decreases rapidly, with an unprecedented increase from position 13 onwards. Tablets have the lowest and most variable CTR values.

Practical implications

The theoretical implications include the generation of a current dataset on search engine results and user behavior, made available to the research community, creation of a unique methodology for generating new datasets and presenting the updated information on CTR trends. The managerial implications include the establishment of the need for businesses to focus on optimizing other forms of Google search results in addition to organic text results, and the possibility of application of this study's methodology to determine CTRs for their own websites.

Originality/value

This study provides a novel method to access real CTR data and estimates current CTRs for top organic Google search results, categorized by device.
Information sources and consumer attitudes toward genetically modified food in China
Authors: Ding Qian , Li Songze , Huang Jikun , Ma Yeting , Qiao Fangbin
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the impact of different information source on consumer attitudes toward genetically modified food.

Design/methodology/approach

The data used in this study are obtained from a large-scale nationwide consumers' survey in urban China conducted by the China Center for Agricultural Policy, Peking University, in 2020. A descriptive analysis between information sources and consumer attitudes toward GM food was conducted. Based on the collected data, an econometric model on the determinants of consumer attitudes was constructed and used for analysis.

Findings

This study shows that the impact of new media is currently no different than that of traditional media, indicating that the media campaign successfully reduced the spread of rumors and misinformation regarding GM food. Moreover, this study also shows that consumers whose main information source regarding GM foods is school hold more positive feelings toward such food.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the existing literature by examining the impact of information source on consumer attitudes toward GM food. To reverse consumers' negative attitudes, China has launched a widespread media campaign since the first decade of the 2000s. Results of this study show that authorities' efforts to manage and surveil new media have yielded the desired outcome.
How are food influencers' recipes promoting food literacy? Investigating nutritional content, food literacy and communication techniques in Instagram recipes
Authors: Teunissen Lauranna , Van Royen Kathleen , Goemans Iris , Verhaegen Joke , Pabian Sara , De Backer Charlotte , Vandebosch Heidi , Matthys Christophe
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Explore what popular food influencers among Flemish emerging adults portray in their Instagram recipe posts in terms of (1) references to food literacy, (2) nutritional value, (3) rational and emotional appeals and (4) the relation between the nutritional value and rational/emotional appeals.

Design/methodology/approach

A content and nutritional analysis of Instagram recipe posts from seven food influencers (N = 166).

Findings

Findings reveal that food influencers rarely embed references to food literacy in their recipe posts, especially regarding meal planning, food selection, meal consumption and evaluating food-related information. Only in 28.9% of the posts information was given on how to prepare a recipe. Second, 220 recipes were included in the 166 recipe posts, of which the majority (65%) were main course meals that met at least six of the 11 nutrient criteria for a healthy main meal (67.2%). Finally, food influencers promote their recipe posts as positive narratives, focusing on the tastiness (66%) and convenience (40.9%) of meals.

Originality/value

This is the first study to evaluate what food influencers post nutritionally in their Instagram recipes, as well as how they promote these recipes. Health promotors should note the influential role of food influencers and seek ways to collaborate to provide information on how food literacy cues can be embedded in influencers' communications and provide insights into how influencers' recipes can be optimised.
“I’m not white”: counter-stories from “mixed race” women navigating PhDs
Authors: Garrett Rhianna
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This paper critiques institutional whiteness and racial categorisation in UK higher education. This is done through the representation of the complex narratives of “mixed race” women navigating their PhD experiences in predominantly white institutions, when their identities have proximity to whiteness.

Design/methodology/approach

This study introduces five vignettes of “mixed race” women, gathered from a wider study of 27 PhDs and early career researchers in UK higher education. The paper employs Yuval-Davis’ framework of belonging and bell hooks' approach to chosen versus forced marginality to create a conceptual framework based on fluid agency and empowerment, recognising belonging as an ongoing process.

Findings

The findings reveal how “mixed race” women can occupy a liminal space between belonging to and rejecting racial categorisation, as they attempted to situate their self-identifications within the boundaries of institutional whiteness.

Research limitations/implications

The study only utilises a small sample size of five counter-stories from a larger study on PhD career trajectories, limiting its empirical claims. It also only engages with “mixed race” women who have proximity to whiteness, encouraging research on different “mixed race” intersections.

Practical implications

This paper encourages more discussion around “mixed race” experiences of UK higher education and critical engagement with higher education’s reliance on statistical data to understand racialised communities.

Originality/value

This paper contributes new empirical insights into how whiteness is experienced when “mixed race” women negotiate their relation to it in UK higher education. It also provides theoretical advancements into understanding of institutional whiteness and critically engages with racial categorisation.
The usefulness of gamification for enhancing customer loyalty to small e-tailers
Authors: Vilkaite - Vaitone Neringa , Kirse Sigita , Adomaviciute - Sakalauske Karina , Dikcius Vytautas , Zimaitis Ignas
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the use of gamification elements by micro and small e-tailers to enhance customer loyalty. Additionally, this research seeks to identify the most promising gamification elements that can be utilised for this purpose.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors adopt a qualitative approach to examine the impact of gamification on online customer loyalty to micro and small e-tailers. Data were gathered using a combination of two types of expert interviews. Semi-structured interviews were held with micro and small e-tailers while large e-tailers served as the control group. Structured interviews based on multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) models were conducted to determine the most promising gamification elements.

Findings

The content analysis reveals that gamification has significant potential for fostering customer loyalty and offering various other benefits. However, small e-tailers often refrain from implementing gamification solutions due to the resource requirements in terms of finances, time, information technology and human capital. By assigning weights as an essential step in MCDA models, the authors determined that badges, medals, quests, avatars and competitions are the most promising gamification options for small e-tailers’ efforts to enhance customer loyalty.

Originality/value

The study makes a unique contribution to the understanding of the usefulness of gamification in augmenting customer loyalty and identifying essential gamification elements for micro and small e-tailers.
Community-based learning and data literacy: the role of the public library
Authors: Oh Sein , Mon Lorri
Published: January 2024

Purpose

By examining types of literacies taught by public libraries and the modes through which these programs were offered, this study aims to explore how public libraries might integrate data literacy training for the general public into existing library educational programs.

Design/methodology/approach

This study examined programs offered in 30 US public libraries during 2019 and 2020 to better understand types of literacy education announced to the public through library website listings and Facebook Events pages.

Findings

While public libraries offered educational programs in literacy areas ranging from basic reading and writing to technology, vocational skills, health literacy and more, data literacy training was not widely offered. However, this study identified many already-existing programs highly compatible for integrating with data literacy training.

Originality/value

This study offered new insights into both the literacies taught in public library programs as well as ways for public libraries to integrate data literacy training into existing educational programming, in order to better provide data literacy education for the general public.
Using a comprehensive DEMATEL-ISM-MICMAC and importance–performance analysis to study sustainable service quality features
Authors: Ebrahimi Maryam , Daneshvar Amir , Valmohammadi Changiz
Published: January 2024

Purpose

To gain and differentiate competitive advantage, the sustainable service quality is a determining factor that railway companies can use. The purpose of this study is to identify both the importance and performance of rail transportation service quality factors in a case study as well as determine the most influential quality features.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive approach namely importance–performance analysis (IPA) technique and decision-making trail and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL), and interpretive structural modeling (ISM) and Matriced’ Impacts Croisés Multiplication Appliquée á un Classement (MICMAC) techniques was utilized.

Findings

The relative position of each attribute is specified on the IPA matrix proposing four strategies of concentrate here, keep up the good work, low priority and possible overkill. This study reveals that attributes of “the company cares about having a good society” are the most influential factor, and “having good business relations with shareholders” is the most permeable factor. Actually, consumers pay attention to how companies act toward society and maintain communication with shareholders. Through ISM technique and by summing the row and column of the consistency matrix, the attributes were partitioned into four levels. Also, MICMAC analysis identified the four clusters of linkage, independent, autonomous and dependent status of the attributes in terms of the driving power and dependence power.

Research limitations/implications

Due to the nature of single case study methodology, caution should be taken into consideration regarding the generazability of the obtained results.

Originality/value

The hybrid DEMATEL-ISM technique is used to analyze service quality factors in Iran’s transportation industry, which can be utilized in other industries as well as other countries.
The ramification of competition and concentration on bank risk-taking behavior and stability: corroboration from South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation
Authors: Khan Shanza Maryam , Akhtar Shahzad
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The study investigates the impact of competition and concentration on bank risk-taking behavior and stability in the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) region.

Design/methodology/approach

Data from 100 banks from 2013 to 2021 was analyzed using dynamic and static measures by using dynamic system GMM.

Findings

Results showed that higher competition reduces stability, while concentration in the banking sector produces stability and reduces risk-taking behavior. The findings suggest that regulatory agencies should take different actions based on the degree of banking market concentration to enhance banking sector stability in the SAARC area.

Practical implications

The research helps regulators and decision-makers establish capital requirements at levels that would prevent banks from increasing their risk-taking in order to boost profits and, therefore, reduces hazardous practices that might increase the risk.

Originality/value

The research helps establish capital requirements to prevent banks from increasing risk-taking to boost profits and avoid hazardous practices that could increase nonperforming loans and bank failure risks.
“If you want peace avoid interpersonal conflict”: a moderating role of organizational climate
Authors: Singh Anurag , Waldia Neelam
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study examines the impact of interpersonal conflict on workplace aggression. Moreover, the moderating role in the association between interpersonal conflict and workplace aggression has been examined.

Design/methodology/approach

The research is grounded on the cognitive appraisal theory, which posits that interpersonal conflict contributes to aggression in the workplace. A sample of n = 250 employees from the steel industry in India was selected in two waves. The authors utilized Hayes' PROCESS macro v4.1 for path analysis.

Findings

The research reveals that interpersonal conflict is positively and significantly related to workplace aggression. Moreover, organizational climate is negatively associated with workplace aggression. The moderation analysis has revealed that organizational climate negatively moderates the relationship between interpersonal conflict and workplace aggression.

Practical implications

This study suggests that recognizing the significance of the organizational climate, companies can proactively curtail the progression of disputes into hostile behaviors. Nurturing a positive workplace climate becomes paramount, as it acts as a buffer against conflict escalation. Educating both staff and managers about the diverse forms of aggression and implementing appropriate protocols to address such behaviors are crucial steps toward fostering a positive climate.

Originality/value

This study provides new insights into the existing literature on workplace aggression, interpersonal conflict and organizational climate for future research.
Effect of banks’ ownership structure on financial performance: evidence from banks in an emerging market
Authors: Kirimi Peter Njagi
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the effect of ownership structure on financial performance of commercial banks in Kenya.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected from audited financial statements of 39 commercial banks in Kenya for the period 2009–2020.

Findings

Regression results found evidence of ownership structure explaining commercial banks’ financial performance. The results found a negative association between state ownership and net interest margin, a negative association between management ownership and net interest margin and a negative association between institutional ownership and return on assets.

Practical implications

Based on the findings, commercial bank management should therefore devise ownership structure policies that are geared toward boosting their financial performance both in the short run and the long run. Second, this study recommends a minority shareholding of the state in commercial banks to deter political interference, protect investors’ wealth from erosion and allow the majority shareholders to adopt a strong corporate governance mechanism for higher financial performance. Banks with a high percentage of state ownership should consider partial privatization to improve corporate governance practices. Third, banks should adopt a managerial ownership policy limiting the proportion of equity stock held by executives to limit their powers in strategic decision-making. Fourth, this study proposes a percentage limit on the equity stock of an institutional investor to eliminate bureaucracy in strategic decision-making and protect investors’ wealth.

Originality/value

The study finding is meant to inform regulation and operation policies in the banking sector and contribute to the literature on ownership structure, especially in the banking sector.
Corporate cash holdings and financial performance: moderating effect of corporate governance and family ownership
Authors: Ahmed Jameel , Tahir Muhammad
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the effect of corporate cash holdings on financial performance. Additionally, it investigates the moderating effect of corporate governance and family ownership on the link between corporate cash holdings and financial performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses secondary data regarding the sample of 81 firms listed in the Karachi Stock Exchange (KSE) 100 index from 2011 to 2020. The present study applies the system generalized method of moments (GMM) to estimate the dynamic financial performance models.

Findings

The findings reveal that corporate cash holding is significantly positively linked with financial performance. Further, the findings indicate that the board size and chief executive officer (CEO) duality strengthen the association between cash holdings and financial performance, whereas CEO gender and family ownership weaken the positive effect of cash holdings on financial performance. Furthermore, the findings suggest that Covid-19 significantly negatively affected the financial performance of Pakistani firms.

Practical implications

The findings have several policy implications. First, policymakers need to increase the board of directors' role in observing the firms' cash-holding behaviour. Policymakers may also formulate policies providing stronger protection for minority shareholders from majority shareholders.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, this study is the first to examine how corporate governance and family ownership influence the link between corporate cash holdings and financial performance in the context of Pakistan.
Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited: the sustainability saga for delivering happiness
Authors: Rath Chetna , Tripathy Asit
Published: January 2024

Research methodology

The case was devised using secondary sources of data collection from annual reports, sustainability reports and the Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) website. These documents provided insights into the HPCL’s sustainability initiatives, financial performance and disclosure practices. Other data were obtained through the websites of the relevant businesses/sectors.

Case overview/synopsis

In March 2022, Pushp Kumar Joshi, chairman and managing director of HPCL, contemplates the oil giant’s sustainability strategy amid challenges. Despite a 38% revenue increase in financial year 2021–2022, profits dropped because of reduced refinery capacity. HPCL, a major player in India’s oil and gas industry, recognized the need to align with climate goals and changing consumer expectations. Joshi emphasized stakeholder engagement, carbon mitigation, technology adoption and transparent environmental, social and governance (ESG) reporting. A materiality assessment highlighted key issues like gender diversity, air quality and the low-carbon transition. Joshi grapples with balancing profitability and sustainability amid stakeholder pressure and market fluctuations, seeking advice from the sustainability team for the future.

Complexity academic level

This can potentially be a case study for a business management course, particularly focusing on sustainability, corporate social responsibility and strategic decision-making. It could be used at both the undergraduate and graduate levels in courses related to business administration, sustainability management, corporate strategy, environmental management or stakeholder engagement. The case could be analyzed to discuss the challenges and opportunities faced by a company like HPCL in balancing profitability and sustainability, developing effective sustainability strategies, integrating ESG considerations and managing stakeholder expectations.

Supplementary material

Teaching notes are available for educators only.
An analysis of green lean six sigma deployment in MSMEs: a systematic literature review and conceptual implementation framework
Authors: Mohan Jag , Kaswan Mahender Singh , Rathi Rajeev
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Green Lean Six Sigma (GLSS) is a comprehensive approach that aims to reduce waste, emissions and non-value added activities, thus mark an effective impact on sustainability of firms. Despite the numerous benefits of GLSS implementation, it is evident that Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are still struggling to understand, integrate and implement this strategy. This research work provides a comprehensive analysis of GLSS within MSMEs and proposes a conceptual integration framework of GLSS for improving economic and environmental dimensions of sustainability MSMEs.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review (SLR) methodology was planned to assess and analyse the research articles from 2007 to 2022. Different key elements of GLSS such as barriers, enablers and tool sets have been thoroughly reviewed and analysed for MSME organisations to understand their behaviour and effectively adopt the GLSS approach in their operations.

Findings

This study provides the analysis of different perspectives of GLSS and this will contribute to improve different metrics related to emissions and quality in MSMEs. It provides MSMEs industrial managers with a comprehensive knowledge base of GLSS elements, enabling effective deployment.

Practical implications

The present study provides a significant knowledge base and know-how of GLSS to researchers that will assist in deploying this sustainable approach in different industrial domains. The study also assists industrial managers by providing a systematic framework of GLSS for MSMEs. Further, the study also supports society by proving pathway to improve the environmental dynamics through the execution GLSS.

Originality/value

The study is of the first kind that review different facets of GLSS related to MSME. The study not only enhances theoretical know how of GLSS but also guides practitioners how to implement comprehensive GLSS program for improved environmental sustainability.
Adrenalectomy attenuates hyperalgesia but does not regulate muscle wasting in a female rat model of fibromyalgia
Authors: Costa Daniely Messias , da Silva Raquel Prado , da Cruz‐Filho João , de Oliveira Santos Tatiane , dos Anjos‐Santos Hevely Catharine , de Lucca Jr Waldecy , do Carmo Kettelhut Ísis , Navegantes Luiz Carlos , de Souza Patrícia Rodrigues Marques , Camargo Enilton Aparecido , Lauton‐Santos Sandra , Badauê‐Passos Jr Daniel , Mecawi André Souza , DeSantana Josimari Melo , Lustrino Danilo
Published: January 2024

Although it is well established that fibromyalgia (FM) syndrome is characterized by chronic diffuse musculoskeletal hyperalgesia, very little is known about the effect of this pathology on muscle tissue plasticity. Therefore, the present study aimed to characterize the putative alterations in skeletal muscle mass in female rats subjected to a FM model by inducing chronic diffuse hyperalgesia (CDH) through double injections of acidic saline (pH 4.0) into the left gastrocnemius muscle at 5‐day intervals. To determine protein turnover, the total proteolysis, proteolytic system activities and protein synthesis were evaluated in oxidative soleus muscles of pH 7.2 (control) and pH 4.0 groups at 7 days after CDH induction. All animals underwent behavioural analyses of mechanical hyperalgesia, strength and motor performance. Our results demonstrated that, in addition to hyperalgesia, rats injected with acidic saline exhibited skeletal muscle loss, as evidenced by a decrease in the soleus fibre cross‐sectional area. This muscle loss was associated with increased proteasomal proteolysis and expression of the atrophy‐related gene (muscle RING‐finger protein‐1), as well as reduced protein synthesis and decreased protein kinase B/S6 pathway activity. Although the plasma corticosterone concentration did not differ between the control and pH 4.0 groups, the removal of the adrenal glands attenuated hyperalgesia, but it did not prevent the increase in muscle protein loss in acidic saline‐injected animals. The data suggests that the stress‐related hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis is involved in the development of hyperalgesia, but is not responsible for muscle atrophy observed in the FM model induced by intramuscular administration of acidic saline. Although the mechanisms involved in the attenuation of hyperalgesia in rats injected with acidic saline and subjected to adrenalectomy still need to be elucidated, the results found in this study suggest that glucocorticoids may not represent an effective therapeutic approach to alleviate FM symptoms.
Manipulation of the seagrass‐associated microbiome reduces disease severity
Authors: Graham Olivia J. , Adamczyk Emily M. , Schenk Siobhan , Dawkins Phoebe , Burke Samantha , Chei Emily , Cisz Kaitlyn , Dayal Sukanya , Elstner Jack , Hausner Arjun Lev Pillai , Hughes Taylor , Manglani Omisha , McDonald Miles , Mikles Chloe , Poslednik Anna , Vinton Audrey , Wegener Parfrey Laura , Harvell C. Drew
Published: January 2024

Host‐associated microbes influence host health and function and can be a first line of defence against infections. While research increasingly shows that terrestrial plant microbiomes contribute to bacterial, fungal, and oomycete disease resistance, no comparable experimental work has investigated marine plant microbiomes or more diverse disease agents. We test the hypothesis that the eelgrass (Zostera marina) leaf microbiome increases resistance to seagrass wasting disease. From field eelgrass with paired diseased and asymptomatic tissue, 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing revealed that bacterial composition and richness varied markedly between diseased and asymptomatic tissue in one of the two years. This suggests that the influence of disease on eelgrass microbial communities may vary with environmental conditions. We next experimentally reduced the eelgrass microbiome with antibiotics and bleach, then inoculated plants with Labyrinthula zosterae, the causative agent of wasting disease. We detected significantly higher disease severity in eelgrass with a native microbiome than an experimentally reduced microbiome. Our results over multiple experiments do not support a protective role of the eelgrass microbiome against L. zosterae. Further studies of these marine host–microbe–pathogen relationships may continue to show new relationships between plant microbiomes and diseases.
Energy consumption‐economic growth nexus: How does sectorial differentials affects sustainable development?
Authors: Kulu Evans , Karakara Alhassan A. , Dasmani Isaac , Armah Mark Kojo
Published: January 2024

Energy, being one of the significant drivers of growth, has gained much focus in the last four decades. A connection between energy and growth exists in the economy: on the one hand, energy is a vital factor of production while growth improves living standards, which increases energy consumption on the other hand. Previous studies on the energy‐growth nexus paid less attention to sectorial differentials in the consumption of energy and growth. Also, the literature could not relate that to sustainable development. Thus, this study explores the sectorial differentials in energy consumption and how they affect the energy‐growth nexus within the context of sustainable development. The research employed secondary data for 46 sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA) countries for the period 2007 to 2020. Using the General Methods of Moments estimation technique, we found that all the measures of energy consumption positively affect economic growth. Also, CO2 intensity is positively related to growth in the economy while CO2 emissions from solid fuels negatively affect economic growth. Again, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is positively impacting economic growth and Gross Domestic Product (SSA) per energy use. Policy implications are discussed in the paper.
An innovative approach to evaluating sustainable development performance: The case of Turkey
Authors: Aldalou Eyad , Perçin Selçuk
Published: January 2024

The assessment of sustainable development necessitates precise productivity measurement. Existing literature reveals a wide array of methods employed for this purpose. However, these approaches give rise to concerns regarding the accurate assessment of both efficiency (EC) and technical (TC) changes. Additionally, the data used for productivity measurement are often subject to uncertainty. In response to these shortcomings in the existing literature, this study introduces the Environmental Fuzzy Malmquist Total Factor Productivity (EFM) index for productivity measurement. Within this framework, the study aims to assess Turkey's environmental sensitivity and sustainable development performance using the proposed EFM index. To achieve this goal, the study first constructs the Environmental Sensitivity Index (ESI), considering undesirable environmental pollution variables related to air, water, and soil pollution. Subsequently, the ESI is integrated with the Fuzzy Malmquist Total Factor Productivity Index (FM) to develop the new EFM index. The proposed integrated EFM index exhibits an enhanced ability to evaluate both EC and TC while addressing the challenges stemming from uncertainty. The proposed integrated EFM index indicates that the Marmara and Aegean regions of Turkey demonstrate the highest level of sustainable development performance. Finally, the study offers recommendations and policies to assist developing countries in enhancing their sustainable development performance.