bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Could it Happen in the EU? An Analysis of Loss Distribution between Shareholders and AT1 Bondholders under EU Law
Authors: Ellingsæter Sjur Swensen
Published: April 2024

In March 2023, the Swiss bank Credit Suisse’s so-called Additional Tier 1 (AT1) bonds were written down to facilitate the bank being taken over by UBS, its national rival. Ensuing discussion and market reactions went well beyond Swiss borders, as the write-down was completed without Credit Suisse’s shareholders first being wiped out, thereby deviating from the principle that shareholders bear losses ahead of all other investors. This article asks whether such an outcome is possible under EU law. A comprehensive analysis demonstrates how this question is governed by the combined operation of contractual clauses and the resolution authority’s statutory powers. Combining applicable EU law with empirical analysis of contractual terms employed by EU banks issuing AT1 bonds and their capital requirements, the article argues that an outcome akin to that of the Credit Suisse write-down is unlikely for EU banks. Building on this analysis, it is shown what reform is needed if EU policymakers consider it desirable to have AT1 bonds absorb losses outside of cases requiring intervention by the resolution authority.
A Novel Technique of Total Scrotal Resurfacing with NovoSorb Biodegradable Temporizing Matrix for Testicular Preservation
Authors: Chia Jake , Vandervord Elle , Seyedabadi Maryam
Published: April 2024

The reconstruction choice of scrotal defects after Fournier gangrene has been routinely based on the reconstructive ladder. Defects are usually managed with either skin-grafting or regional flaps to achieve testicular coverage. However, skin grafting done directly to testes may lead to chronic pain issues, and skin flaps can potentially be too thick to achieve good temperature control for spermatogenesis. We present the first reported case of total scrotal resurfacing after Fournier gangrene in a 48-year-old patient with NovoSorb Biodegradable Temporizing Matrix. The patient showed a good cosmetic outcome with no residual pain issues. Further research is recommended to further investigate the long-term effects of scrotal reconstruction with Biodegradable Temporizing Matrix.
Long COVID—ACOEM Guidance Statement
Authors: Stave Gregg M. , Nabeel Ismail , Durand-Moreau Quentin
Published: April 2024

Persistent symptoms are common after acute COVID-19, often referred to as long COVID. Long COVID may affect the ability to perform activities of daily living, including work. Long COVID occurs more frequently in those with severe acute COVID-19. This guidance statement reviews the pathophysiology of severe acute COVID-19 and long COVID and provides pragmatic approaches to long COVID symptoms, syndromes, and conditions in the occupational setting. Disability laws and workers’ compensation are also addressed.
The Clinical Impact of the 4Kscore Test on Prostate Biopsy Decision Making in the Setting of MRI
Authors: Wang Johnny C. , Vetter Joel M. , Kim Eric H. , Gross James T. , Henning Grant M.
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

Biomarkers are often used in conjunction with MRI to improve the specificity of prostate cancer screening. Our objective was to evaluate the real-world utility of the 4Kscore test in the setting of MRI. We explored the association of the 4Kscore test with the decision to pursue prostate biopsy and its contribution to the accurate detection of clinically significant prostate cancer.

Methods:

We retrospectively analyzed patients undergoing the 4Kscore test and MRI for consideration of prostate biopsy. Multivariable logistic regression was used to model the association of 4Kscore with the decision to pursue biopsy. Receiver-operating characteristic curves were used to calculate the AUC of 4Kscore alone, PSA with MRI, and 4Kscore with MRI for detection of Gleason Grade Group ≥ 2 (GG ≥ 2) prostate cancer.

Results:

Of 442 patients, 311 (70%) proceeded to biopsy. 4Kscore was associated with the decision to pursue biopsy for continuous (odds ratio [OR] 1.05 per 1-point increase in 4Kscore, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02-1.07; P < .001) and categorical (high-risk 4Kscore: OR 16.1, 6.62-39.3, P < .001; intermediate-risk 4Kscore: OR 6.89, 95% CI 3.15-15.1; P < .01) models. For the detection of GG ≥ 2 prostate cancer, the AUC of 4Kscore with MRI (AUC = 0.866) was superior to 4Kscore alone (AUC = 0.800, P < .001) and PSA with MRI (AUC = 0.792, P < .001).

Conclusions:

In patients with MRI, the 4Kscore is associated with the decision to pursue prostate biopsy and augments the accurate prediction of GG ≥ 2 prostate cancer. Our findings suggest 4Kscore provides independent information as an adjunct to MRI for real-world clinical decision making.
Factors affecting timing of hypothyroidism following radioactive iodine therapy (RAIT) for patients with Graves’ disease: A 12-month observational study
Authors: Mahmoud Hemat Abdelsamea , Alsanory Aya Abdel-baset Ahmed Ali , Mostafa Hanan Gamal-eldin , Hassan Esraa Roshdy
Published: April 2024

Background

This retrospective study analyzed factors influencing hypothyroidism development after radioactive iodine therapy for Graves’ disease.

Patients and methods

Three hundred and three patients with Graves’ disease treated with radioactive iodine (RAI) from 2013 to 2022 at two Egyptian hospitals were included. Data collected included demographics, lab values, thyroid imaging, RAI doses, and outcomes. Patients were followed for ≥1 year to assess hypothyroidism onset.

Results

At the end of 1 year, around 79.5% of the individuals developed hypothyroidism while 12.5% continued to experience hyperthyroidism. The onset of hypothyroidism occurred earlier in those with thyroid volume (≤75.5 cm3), lower thyroid weight (≤84.7 g), thyroid uptake (≤18.8%), and higher RAI dose/volume (≥0.1022 mCi/ml) (P < 0.001). Additionally, there was a correlation between anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) antibodies and faster development of hypothyroidism compared to those who were negative for antibodies (2.9 vs 8.9 months, P = 0.001). When considering factors in analysis it was found that anti-TPO antibodies were the only independent predictor, for developing hypothyroidism (hazard risk 30.47, P < 0.001). Additionally, thyroid volume and uptake independently predicted successful treatment outcomes (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Positive anti-TPO antibodies strongly predict hypothyroidism risk after RAI therapy for Graves’ disease. Smaller thyroid size, lower uptake, and higher RAI dose/volume correlate with earlier hypothyroidism onset but are less significant predictors than anti-TPO status. Findings can guide RAI therapy personalization to optimize outcomes.
Genomic and Pathologic Profiling of Very Well-Differentiated Gastric Adenocarcinoma of Intestinal Type
Authors: Rokutan Hirofumi , Arai Yasuhito , Kunita Akiko , Yamasaki Satoshi , Nakamura Hiromi , Hama Natsuko , Nakayama Atsuhito , Hosoda Fumie , Totoki Yasushi , Fujishiro Mitsuhiro , Seto Yasuyuki , Shibata Tatsuhiro , Ushiku Tetsuo
Published: April 2024

Very well-differentiated adenocarcinoma of intestinal type is a distinct subtype of gastric cancer characterized by anastomosing glands with a hand-in-hand pattern and low-grade cytologic atypia resembling intestinal metaplasia. This is a slow-growing neoplasm with an indolent clinical course; however, a subset demonstrates transformation into adenocarcinoma with higher-grade histology, typically diffuse-type carcinoma, and behaves aggressively. This study aimed to better characterize the genomic and pathologic features, with a focus on factors associated with diffuse-type transformation. A total of 58 cases with (n=31) and without (n=27) diffuse-type transformation were analyzed for molecular and pathologic features. First, comprehensive deep DNA sequencing was conducted in 18 cases (discovery cohort), followed by a digital droplet polymerase chain reaction of hot spot RHOA mutations in 40 cases (validation cohort). In total, RHOA mutations were the most common alteration (34%), followed by loss of ARID1A (12%), p53 alterations (10%), and CLDN18::ARHGAP26/6 fusions (3.4%). FGFR2 amplification was identified in an advanced case with a p53 alteration. Altered p53 expression was recognized only in higher-grade components and was significantly associated with advanced disease (P=0.0015) and diffuse-type transformation (P=0.026). A mixed mucin phenotype was also strongly correlated with advanced disease (P<0.001) and diffuse-type transformation (P<0.001). Decreased E-cadherin expression was frequently observed (74%) in poorly cohesive components. This study demonstrated that a subset of RHOA-mutant diffuse-type gastric cancers develops through the transformation of very well-differentiated adenocarcinoma of intestinal type. Our observations suggest a mixed mucin phenotype as a risk factor and alterations in p53 and E-cadherin as drivers of diffuse-type transformation.
An Immunohistochemical Analysis of Osteopontin and S100 Calcium-binding Protein P is Useful for Subclassifying Large- and Small-duct Type Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinomas
Authors: Yoshizawa Takahiro , Uehara Takeshi , Iwaya Mai , Nakajima Tomoyuki , Shimizu Akira , Kubota Koji , Notake Tsuyoshi , Kitagawa Noriyuki , Masuo Hitoshi , Sakai Hiroki , Hayashi Hikaru , Tomida Hidenori , Yamazaki Shiori , Hirano Shohei , Ota Hiroyoshi , Soejima Yuji
Published: April 2024

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) has been newly subclassified into two different subtypes: large-duct (LD) type and small-duct (SD) type. However, many cases are difficult to subclassify, and there is no consensus regarding subclassification criteria. LD type expresses the highly sensitive diagnostic marker S100 calcium-binding protein P (S100P), while SD type lacks sensitive markers. We identified osteopontin (OPN) as a highly sensitive marker for SD type. This study aimed to develop new subclassification criteria for LD-type and SD-type iCCA. We retrospectively investigated 74 patients with iCCA and subclassified them based on whole-section immunostaining of S100P and OPN. Of the 74 cases, 41 were subclassified as LD type, 32 as SD type, and one was indeterminate. Notably, all S100P-negative cases had OPN positivity. Seventy-three of the 74 cases (98.6%) were clearly and easily subclassified as LD or SD type using only these 2 markers. We also determined the value of immunohistochemistry in cases that were difficult to diagnose based on hematoxylin–eosin and Alcian blue–periodic acid-Schiff staining. Furthermore, we analyzed the clinicopathological characteristics and prognoses of these 2 subtypes. LD type was a poor prognostic factor on univariate analysis; it had significantly worse overall survival (P = 0.007) and recurrence-free survival (P < 0.001) than the SD type. In conclusion, we propose new subclassification criteria for iCCA based on immunostaining of S100P and OPN. These criteria may help pathologists to diagnose subtypes of iCCA, supporting future clinical trials and the development of medications for these 2 subtypes as distinct cancers.
The One Pill Can Kill Myth
Authors: Tenenbein Milton
Published: April 2024

“One Pill Can Kill” is a meme originating in the 1990s. This construct lists pharmaceuticals that have the alleged potential for fatality after the ingestion of a single pill by a toddler. However, its foundation is fundamentally flawed because it contravenes a basic principle of pediatric pharmacology, allometric scaling. Other than opioids, there are no literature examples of one pill killing a toddler. The negative outcome of the one pill can kill construct is inappropriate management manifested by over-referral of young children by poison centers to emergency departments for care, overly prolonged emergency department observation and needless hospital admissions. A more accurate construct is that one pill of anything other than opioids will not kill anybody with the caveat being that we are referring to regulated pharmaceuticals.
Orthognathic Surgery Trending: Retrospective Ten Years Cases Analysis in Nineveh Province, Iraq
Authors: Al-Rawee Rawaa Y. , Tawfeeq Bashar A. , Tawfek Zaid S.
Published: April 2024

Aims:

The study aimed at analyzing patient’s case sheets in regard to the incidence of skeletal discrepancy present in cases and its relation with the demographic profile of the sample. All these are chronicled for more than 10 years periods.

Methodology:

This is a retrospective study analysis of the orthognathic case sheets for more than 10 years period. The total numbers of patients are 678. Patient’s case sheet was already prepared by the Multi-Disciplinary Team Orthognathic Surgery Clinic in Al-Salam Teaching Hospital, which is the only authorized committee in Nineveh Health Directorate.

Results:

The highest age percentage is between (18 and 27 y/76%). Angle class III cases are the uppermost cases (36%) from the total. A significant P value is clear at the level ≤0.05 and ≤0.01 between surgery type and discrepancy in anterior segmental osteotomies (upper and lower) which is performed in bi-maxillary protrusion cases and Angle class II cases (0.01**). Similarly, anterior segmental osteotomies (upper jaw only) which are indicated in both open bite and Angle Class II cases documented as a statistically significant P value (0.02*). The positive correlation is shown in all variables with the disharmony or facial discrepancies. Esthetic and beauty as causes for treatment recorded more than function in relation to time series.

Conclusion:

This study documents that patients with skeletal class III accounted for the largest percentage (64%) in the study group. A high increase in patients number seeking treatment for their discrepancy is obvious with time from 2009 till 2022.
Impact of hypocalcemia on mortality in pediatric trauma patients who require transfusion
Authors: Abou Khalil Elissa , Feeney Erin , Morgan Katrina M. , Spinella Philip C. , Gaines Barbara A. , Leeper Christine M.
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Admission hypocalcemia has been associated with poor outcomes in injured adults. The impact of hypocalcemia on mortality has not been widely studied in pediatric trauma.

METHODS

A pediatric trauma center database was queried retrospectively (2013–2022) for children younger than 18 years who received blood transfusion within 24 hours of injury and had ionized calcium (iCal) level on admission. Children who received massive transfusion (>40 mL/kg) prior to hospital arrival or calcium prior to laboratory testing were excluded. Hypocalcemia was defined by the laboratory lower limit (iCal <1.00). Main outcomes were in-hospital mortality and 24-hour blood product requirements. Logistic regression analysis was performed to adjust for Injury Severity Score (ISS), admission shock index, Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score, and weight-adjusted total transfusion volume.

RESULTS

In total, 331 children with median (IQR) age of 7 years (2–3 years) and median (IQR) ISS 25 (14–33) were included, 32 (10%) of whom were hypocalcemic on arrival to the hospital. The hypocalcemic cohort had higher ISS (median (IQR) 30(24–36) vs. 22 (13–30)) and lower admission GCS score (median (IQR) 3 (3–12) vs. 8 (3–15)). Age, sex, race, and mechanism were not significantly different between groups. On univariate analysis, hypocalcemia was associated with increased in-hospital (56% vs. 18%; p < 0.001) and 24-hour (28% vs. 5%; p < 0.001) mortality. Children who were hypocalcemic received a median (IQR) of 22 mL/kg (7–38) more in total weight-adjusted 24-hour blood product transfusion following admission compared to the normocalcemic cohort (p = 0.005). After adjusting for ISS, shock index, GCS score, and total transfusion volume, hypocalcemia remained independently associated with increased 24-hour (odds ratio, 4.93; 95% confidence interval, 1.77–13.77; p = 0.002) and in-hospital mortality (odds ratio, 3.41; 95% confidence interval, 1.22–9.51; p = 0.019).

CONCLUSION

Hypocalcemia is independently associated with mortality and receipt of greater weight-adjusted volumes of blood product transfusion after injury in children. The benefit of timely calcium administration in pediatric trauma needs further exploration.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic and Epidemiological; Level III.
Pregnancy and reproductive health in women with multiple sclerosis: an update
Authors: Houtchens Maria K.
Published: April 2024

Purpose of review

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic immune-mediated, inflammatory, neuro-degenerative disease of the central nervous system, prevalent in women of reproductive age. Today, many women want to start a family after MS diagnosis. There are over 20 treatments for MS, and safely navigating family planning is important. We review updated information on family planning, preconception, and peri-partum considerations, and reproductive concerns in special populations with MS.

Recent findings

There are no MS-related restrictions on any available and appropriate contraceptive method in women with MS. The question of MS and pregnancy outcomes following assisted reproduction, remains somewhat unsettled. In many studies, no elevated relapse risk is confirmed regardless of the type of fertility treatment. MRI status may offer better assessment of postpartum disease stability than relapse rate alone. Ongoing effective MS treatments during fertility assistance and before pregnancy, can further reduce the relapse risk. B-cell depleting therapies are emerging as safe and effective treatments for peripartum MS patients.

Patients with MS should receive accurate support and counseling related to their reproductive options. The general outlook on pregnancy and MS remains positive. The ever-increasing therapeutic complexity of MS calls for ongoing education and updated guidance for neuroimmunology and obstetrics healthcare providers.
Cardiac Rhythm Aberrations in Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis: Insights From Heart Rate Variability Analysis
Authors: Viswanathan Lakshminarayanapuram Gopal , Nagaraj Bittanakurike C. , Mundlamuri Ravindranadh , Thennarasu Kandavel , Kenchaiah Raghavendra , Asranna Ajay , Nagappa Madhu , Seshagiri Doniparthi , Saini Jitender , Sinha Sanjib
Published: April 2024

Purpose:

Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) is a fatal neurological disorder resulting from persistent measles virus infection within the brain. Although neurological manifestations have been well-documented, the impact of SSPE on cardiac autonomic function, assessed through heart rate variability (HRV), remains understudied.

Methods:

In this prospective single-center study conducted from January 2022 to March 2023 in Southern India, 30 consecutive SSPE patients and age- and sex-matched controls underwent electrocardiogram recordings for HRV analysis. Various HRV parameters were assessed, including time-domain metrics (SD of normal-to-normal intervals, root mean square of successive differences between normal heartbeats, percentage of successive normal interbeat intervals greater than 50 msec), SD1 and SD2 for Poincaré plot analysis, and frequency-domain metrics (low frequency %, high frequency %, low frequency:high frequency ratio).

Results:

In the study, SSPE patients exhibited markedly reduced HRV. Specifically, SD of normal-to-normal intervals (P = 0.003), percentage of successive normal interbeat intervals greater than 50 msec (P = 0.03), and SD2 (P = 0.0016) were significantly lower compared with controls. Frequency-domain analysis did not reveal significant distinctions. Correlation analysis demonstrated a negative relationship between percentage of successive normal interbeat intervals greater than 50 msec and SSPE severity (r = −0.37, P = 0.042). Heart rate variability did not significantly differ between SSPE stages or with clinical variables. The interbeat interval range showed a narrower distribution in SSPE subjects.

Conclusions:

Our study highlights the clinical relevance of HRV analysis in SSPE and autonomic dysfunction throughout the disease course underscoring its importance in SSPE. This investigation provides valuable insights into cardiac autonomic dysfunction probably because of affliction of the central autonomic networks caused by the disease process and may be a contributing factor to mortality in SSPE.
Persistent cross-species transmission systems dominate Shiga toxin-producingEscherichia coliO157:H7 epidemiology in a high incidence region: a genomic epidemiology study
Authors: Tarr Gillian A.M. , Chui Linda , Stanford Kim , Bumunang Emmanuel W. , Zaheer Rahat , Li Vincent , Freedman Stephen B. , Laing Chad R. , McAllister Tim A.
Published: April 2024

Background

Several areas of the world suffer notably high incidence of Shiga toxin-producingEscherichia coli, among them Alberta, Canada. We assessed the impact of persistent cross-species transmission systems on the epidemiology ofE. coliO157:H7 in Alberta.

Methods

We sequenced and assembled 229E. coliO157:H7 isolates originating from collocated cattle (n=108) and human (n=121) populations from 2007-2015 in Alberta. We constructed a timed phylogeny using BEAST2 using a structured coalescent model. We then extended the tree with human isolates through 2019 (n=430) to assess the long-term disease impact of locally persistent lineages. Shiga toxin gene (stx) profile was determined for all isolates.

Results

During 2007 to 2015, we estimated 108 (95% HPD 104, 112) human lineages arose from cattle lineages, and 14 (95% HPD 5, 23) from other human lineages; i.e., 88.5% of human lineages arose from cattle lineages. We identified 11 persistent lineages local to Alberta, which were associated with 38.0% (95% CI 29.3%, 47.3%) of human isolates. Of 117 isolates in locally persistent lineages, 6.0% carried only the Shiga toxin genestx2aand the rest bothstx1aandstx2a. During the later period, six locally persistent lineages continued to be associated with human illness, including 74.7% (95% CI 68.3%, 80.3%) of reported cases in 2018 and 2019. Thestxprofile of isolates in locally persistent lineages shifted from the earlier period, with 51.2% encoding onlystx2a.

Conclusions

Our study identified multiple locally evolving lineages transmitted between cattle and humans persistently associated withE. coliO157:H7 illnesses for up to 13 years. Of concern, there was a dramatic shift in locally persistent lineages toward strains with the more virulentstx2a-only profile. Locally persistent lineages may be a principal cause of the high incidence ofE. coliO157:H7 in locations such as Alberta and offer opportunities for understanding the disease ecology supportingE. coliO157:H7 persistence, as well as for local prevention efforts.
The Transcription Factor OsNAC5 Mediates Cadmium Stress Response and Accumulation in Rice
Authors: Hu Shubao , Chen Jinfen , Wang Hui , Ji E , Su Xinxin , Zhu Muyao , Xiang Xiaoyan , Gong Li , Zhou Qiang , Xiao Xin , Wu Ganlin , Zha Hainie
Published: April 2024

Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic heavy metal that endangers human health via contaminated rice consumption. Reduction Cd uptake in rice is essential for minimizing grain Cd accumulation. However, the transcriptional regulatory of Cd uptake in rices remains largely elusive. This study reveals that the transcription factor OsNAC5 in Oryza sativa positively regulates the Cd transporter gene OsNRAMP1, influencing Cd uptake. OsNAC5 is primarily expressed in roots, localized to the nucleus and is upregulated by Cd induced H2O2. OsNAC5 knockout reduces Cd levels in both shoots and roots and increases Cd sensitivity. OsNRAMP1 expression, enhanced by Cd stress, dependents on OsNAC5, which binds to CATGTG motifs in the OsNRAMP1 promoters activating its expression. Loss of OsNAC5 function decreases Cd accumulation in rice grains. Our findings elucidate the transcriptional regulation of Cd stress response in rice and suggest biotechnological approaches to reduce Cd uptake in crops.
Synthesis, crystal structure and Hirshfeld analysis of N-ethyl-2-{3-methyl-2-[(2Z)-pent-2-en-1-yl]cyclopent-2-en-1-ylidene}hydrazinecarbothioamide
Authors: Oliveira Adriano Bof de , Beck Johannes , Daniels Jörg
Published: April 2024

The title compound (C14H23N3S, common name: cis-jasmone 4-ethylthiosemicarbazone) was synthesized by the equimolar reaction of cis-jasmone and 4-ethylthiosemicarbazide in ethanol facilitated by acid catalysis. There is one crystallographically independent molecule in the asymmetric unit, which shows disorder of the terminal ethyl group of the jasmone carbon chain [site-occupancy ratio = 0.911 (5):0.089 (5)]. The thiosemicarbazone entity [N—N—C(=S)—N] is approximately planar, with the maximum deviation of the mean plane through the N/N/C/S/N atoms being 0.0331 (8) Å, while the maximum deviation of the mean plane through the five-membered ring of the jasmone fragment amounts to −0.0337 (8) Å. The dihedral angle between the two planes is 4.98 (7)°. The molecule is not planar due to this structural feature and the sp
3-hybridized atoms of the jasmone carbon chain. Additionally, one H...N intramolecular interaction is observed, with graph-set motif S(5). In the crystal, the molecules are connected through pairs of H...S interactions with R
2
2(8) and R
2
1(7) graph-set motifs into centrosymmetric dimers. The dimers are further connected by H...N interactions with graph-set motif R
2
2(12), which are related by an inversion centre, forming a mono-periodic hydrogen-bonded ribbon parallel to the b-axis. The crystal structure and the supramolecular assembly of the title compound are compared with four known cis-jasmone thiosemicarbazone derivatives (two crystalline modifications of the non-substituted form, the 4-methyl and the 4-phenyl derivatives). A Hirshfeld surface analysis indicates that the major contributions for the crystal cohesion are from H...H (70.7%), H...S/S...H (13.5%), H...C/C...H (8.8%), and H...N/N...H (6.6%) interfaces (only the disordered atoms with the highest s.o.f. were considered for the evaluation).
Supportive communication between apprentices and supervisors: development of a digital role play game
Authors: Zhang Rita Peihua , Lingard Helen , Clarke Jack , Greuter Stefan , Strazdins Lyndall , LaBond Christine , Doan Tinh
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper describes the development of a digital role play game (RPG) designed to help construction apprentices to better communicate with their supervisors about issues with the potential to impact on their physical and psychological health and safety.

Design/methodology/approach

A participatory approach was adopted to utilise the knowledge and insights of the target users to inform the digital RPG development. Apprentices and supervisors were interviewed to identify characteristics of effective supervisor-apprentice communication, which became the RPG’s learning objectives. The scenarios constructed in the RPG were drawn from lived experiences shared by the apprentices in the interviews. During the development process, consultations were conducted with an advisory committee comprising of apprentices and supervisors to improve the realism of the RPG scenarios.

Findings

Three scenarios were developed for the RPG. In each scenario, players are asked to make decisions at various interaction points about how the characters should respond to the unfolding and challenging situations. Scripts were developed for the game, which were acted out and motion captured to animate digital MetaHuman characters embedded in a virtual construction site. Two example situations are introduced in this paper to illustrate the development process.

Originality/value

To our knowledge, the RPG introduced is one of the first applications of digital game-based training in the construction industry. The adoption of a participatory design approach ensures that the game content relates to real-world experiences. The digital RPG is highly interactive and engaging in nature and presents a novel approach to developing “soft” skills in construction.
Exploring and evaluating the index for interdisciplinary breakthrough innovation detection
Authors: Wang Zhongyi , Qiao Xueyao , Chen Jing , Li Lina , Zhang Haoxuan , Ding Junhua , Chen Haihua
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to establish a reliable index to identify interdisciplinary breakthrough innovation effectively. We constructed a new index, the DDiv index, for this purpose.

Design/methodology/approach

The DDiv index incorporates the degree of interdisciplinarity in the breakthrough index. To validate the index, a data set combining the publication records and citations of Nobel Prize laureates was divided into experimental and control groups. The validation methods included sensitivity analysis, correlation analysis and effectiveness analysis.

Findings

The sensitivity analysis demonstrated the DDiv index’s ability to differentiate interdisciplinary breakthrough papers from various categories of papers. This index not only retains the strengths of the existing index in identifying breakthrough innovation but also captures interdisciplinary characteristics. The correlation analysis revealed a significant correlation (correlation coefficient = 0.555) between the interdisciplinary attributes of scientific research and the occurrence of breakthrough innovation. The effectiveness analysis showed that the DDiv index reached the highest prediction accuracy of 0.8. Furthermore, the DDiv index outperforms the traditional DI index in terms of accuracy when it comes to identifying interdisciplinary breakthrough innovation.

Originality/value

This study proposed a practical and effective index that combines interdisciplinary and disruptive dimensions for detecting interdisciplinary breakthrough innovation. The identification and measurement of interdisciplinary breakthrough innovation play a crucial role in facilitating the integration of multidisciplinary knowledge, thereby accelerating the scientific breakthrough process.
Extended (3 + 1)-dimensional Kairat-II and Kairat-X equations: Painlevé integrability, multiple soliton solutions, lump solutions, and breather wave solutions
Authors: Wazwaz Abdul-Majid
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate two newly developed (3 + 1)-dimensional Kairat-II and Kairat-X equations that illustrate relations with the differential geometry of curves and equivalence aspects.

Design/methodology/approach

The Painlevé analysis confirms the complete integrability of both Kairat-II and Kairat-X equations.

Findings

This study explores multiple soliton solutions for the two examined models. Moreover, the author showed that only Kairat-X give lump solutions and breather wave solutions.

Research limitations/implications

The Hirota’s bilinear algorithm is used to furnish a variety of solitonic solutions with useful physical structures.

Practical implications

This study also furnishes a variety of numerous periodic solutions, kink solutions and singular solutions for Kairat-II equation. In addition, lump solutions and breather wave solutions were achieved from Kairat-X model.

Social implications

The work formally furnishes algorithms for studying newly constructed systems that examine plasma physics, optical communications, oceans and seas and the differential geometry of curves, among others.

Originality/value

This paper presents an original work that presents two newly developed Painlev\'{e} integrable models with insightful findings.
Multichannel service, trust, commitment and engagement: a study in a credit union
Authors: Gomes Lucimara , Schmidt Serje , Eberle Luciene
Published: April 2024

Purpose

In banking services, how customers interact with their bank – whether it’s through the physical branch or online – plays a significant role in how they feel about the experience. It’s not just about performing the service; it’s also about building trust, keeping them committed and getting them engaged so that a long-lasting relationship is developed. While there’s abundant research about trust and commitment in banking, not many studies have looked at how customers see both the online and offline sides of banking, especially in credit unions. Credit unions emphasize proximity with members, so it’s important to understand how these different ways of interacting affect how much people trust the credit union and stay committed to it and how engaged they feel as members. This study aims to explore this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative survey was conducted using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The survey was answered by 195 members of one of the most traditional credit unions in Brazil.

Findings

The results suggest that both face-to-face and digital channels’ dimensions impact trust, which in turn influences commitment. Engagement is influenced by both trust and commitment, providing inputs to the value co-creation process.

Originality/value

The research presents relevant contributions to academia by deepening the understanding of the role of different service channels in value co-creation and customer engagement. It also offers significant contributions to the cooperative, which can improve the member experience in interaction channels to consequently develop lasting relationships and stimulate the engagement of its members.
Experiential effects on mass sport participants’ event satisfaction and behavioral intentions: examining sensory, affective, behavioral, intellectual and relational dimensions
Authors: Lianopoulos Yannis , Kotsi Nikoleta , Karagiorgos Thomas , Theodorakis Nicholas D.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the interrelationships among the dimensions of sport event experience, event satisfaction and event behavioral intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample was comprised of 186 individuals who actively participated in a mass participation sport event. Partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed to test the relationships among the latent constructs.

Findings

The results indicated that the dimensions of sport event experience predicted 55% of the variance of event satisfaction and 63% of the variance of event behavioral intentions was predicted by sport event experience dimensions and event satisfaction. Specifically, the sensory, affective and relational dimensions of experience sought to have a statistically significant and positive association with event satisfaction, while event satisfaction and the relational dimension of experience were found to have a statistically significant and positive correlation with event behavioral intentions. In addition, event satisfaction was found to mediate the relationships between sensory, affective and relational experiences and event behavioral intentions.

Originality/value

The present study is one of the first that explores the relationships among sport event experience’s dimensions, event satisfaction and positive behavioral intentions in the context of sport event participation.
An analysis of social acceptance of energy in Iran: case study of fossil, nuclear, solar and wind energy
Authors: Sadabadi Ali Asghar , Mohamadi Etergeleh Fatemeh , Fartash Kiarash , Shahi Narges
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the social acceptance of renewable and non-renewable energies in Iran using the social acceptance pyramid.

Design/methodology/approach

Today, social acceptance is considered a very important phenomenon in the development, implementation and achievement of energy policy goals. Low acceptance will make it difficult to achieve energy development goals; therefore, social acceptance must be taken into account when making policy. Firstly, the model criteria, using data obtained from questionnaires, are weighted by the Shannon entropy method and, finally, four sources of fossil, nuclear, wind and solar energy were ranked by means of VIKOR, Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS).

Findings

The results show that, in Iran, the social acceptance criterion and trust sub-criterion are the most important criteria for energy acceptance. The results of the ranking of options based on multiple-criteria decision-making (MCDM) techniques show that, given Iran's specific energy requirements, social acceptance of fossil energy is higher than wind, solar and nuclear, and wind, solar and nuclear energy come later in the rankings.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the literature in two ways: Firstly, social acceptance is considered a very important phenomenon in the development, implementation and achievement of energy policy goals; thus social acceptance must be taken into account when making policy. The results of the ranking of options based on MCDM techniques show that, given Iran's specific energy requirements, social acceptance of fossil energy is higher than wind, solar and nuclear, and wind, solar and nuclear energy come later in the rankings. Also, the social acceptance criterion and trust sub-criterion are the most important criteria for energy acceptance in Iran.
Unleashing potential: Islamic leadership’s influence on employee performance via Islamic organizational values, organizational culture and work motivation
Authors: Abdelwahed Nadia A. Abdelmegeed , Al Doghan Mohammed A. , Saraih Ummi Naiemah , Soomro Bahadur Ali
Published: April 2024

Purpose

In the present era, the achievement of employee Islamic performance has become a significant challenge for organizations. The purpose of the study is to examine the effect of Islamic leadership on employee Islamic performance directly and indirectly by bridging the connections between employees’ Islamic organizational values, Islamic organizational culture, and Islamic work motivation among the employees of Egyptian banks.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used quantitative methods in this study and based its findings on the data received from 312 respondents in response to a questionnaire.

Findings

By using SmartPLS 4, this study’s findings demonstrate that Islamic leadership has a positive and significant effect on Islamic organizational values, culture, employee Islamic performance and work motivation. While Islamic organizational values and Islamic organizational culture do not significantly impact employee Islamic performance, Islamic work motivation is a significant predictor of employee Islamic performance. On the one hand, Islamic organizational values and Islamic organizational culture do not mediate the relationship between Islamic leadership and employee Islamic performance. On the other hand, Islamic work motivation is a mediating variable that significantly develops the relationship between Islamic leadership and employee Islamic performance.

Practical implications

The study’s findings support policymakers and human resource management practitioners to develop plans and strategies which enhance the Islamic performance of organizations’ employees. In addition, this study’s findings provide insights for researchers and academicians in developing Islamic leadership within their organizations so that they operate by Islamic values and codes.

Originality/value

Finally, by offering an integrated model of Islamic leadership, Islamic organizational values, Islamic organizational culture and employee Islamic performance, this study’s findings fill the gaps in the context of bank employees in a developing country, namely, Egypt.
Ethical banking behavior among millennials and Gen-Z in Malaysia
Authors: Zahari Siti Aisyah , Shahimi Shahida , Alma'amun Suhaili , Arshad Mohd Mursyid
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to determine the factors that influence ethical banking behavior among millennials and Gen-Z in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

A stratified sample of 525 millennials and Gen-Z of Malaysian banking customers was used. Extended ethical decision-making (EDM) model was tested using partial least square-structural equation model for the analysis.

Findings

The findings indicated that the engagement of millennials and Gen-Z in ethical banking is influenced by factors such as intention, judgment and awareness, which shaped both generations’ ethical banking behavior.

Practical implications

This study could be a central reference point and assist banking institutions in understanding the preferences of millennials and Gen-Z.

Originality/value

This study extends the previous EDM model that focused solely on consumer's belief systems. Three aspects differentiate this paper and contribute to its originality, namely, the uniqueness of millennials and Gen-Z behavior, incorporating new variables along with the EDM models and study in Malaysian context.
What else lies behind the credit rationing? Exploring the issue of employment
Authors: Vlassas Ioannis , Kallandranis Christos , Ballis Antonis , Glyptis Loukas , Thanh Lan Mai
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to review the literature extensively by analysing recent work and providing a guide for models, data sets and research findings.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper reviews the literature extensively by analysing recent work and providing a guide for models, data sets and research findings within the context of capital market imperfections. The authors further break down the literature into closer-in-nature categories for reader’s convenience and comprehension. Finally, the authors address gaps in the existing literature and propose government policies that can tone down the potential effect of credit rationing on employment.

Findings

This paper provides a map of the literature so as to help future researchers in the relevant literature and give a short insight of what has been explored so far.

Originality/value

This paper is original and is the result of a thorough review of an extensive literature.
The digital frontier of Islamic tax compliance: unveiling the influence of ICT as a moderator
Authors: Bhat Mohd Abass , Khan Shagufta Tariq , Al Balushi Yousuf Mohamed Zahran , Wedajo Abel Dula , Haseeb Mohammad
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Based on the extended theory of planned behavior, this study aims to examine potential intentions-related factors that affect Islamic tax compliance moderated by information and communication technology (ICT) adoption.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative cross-sectional design was used to distribute questionnaire sets to 975 working Muslim Omanis by using convenience sampling method. PLS-SEM was mainly used to examine the data.

Findings

All the factors determine behavioral intention to pay Islamic tax (BIIT), which significantly predicts Islamic tax compliance behavior (ITCB). However, perceived control behavior negatively determines intention. ICT adoption moderates the link between BIIT and ITCB.

Practical implications

This study offers both practical and theoretical implications that can guide efforts to promote Islamic tax compliance and advance our understanding of tax behavior within the ETPB framework.

Originality/value

This study accounted for crucial factors determining intention than earlier ones using the ETPB. Considering technological advancements, the study also assessed the moderating role of ICT between BIIT and ITCB.
Ambidextrous knowledge accumulation, dynamic capability and manufacturing digital transformation in China
Authors: Qi Yong , Chen Qian , Yang Mengyuan , Sun Yilei
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Existing studies have paid less attention to the impact of knowledge accumulation on digital transformation and its boundary conditions. Hence, this study aims to investigate the effects of ambidextrous knowledge accumulation on manufacturing digital transformation under the moderation of dynamic capability.

Design/methodology/approach

This study divides knowledge accumulation into exploratory and exploitative knowledge accumulation and divides dynamic capability into alliance management capability and new product development capability. To clarify the relationship among ambidextrous knowledge accumulation, dynamic capability and manufacturing digital transformation, the authors collect data from 421 Chinese listed manufacturing enterprises from 2016 to 2020 and perform analysis by multiple hierarchical regression method, heterogeneity test and robustness analysis.

Findings

The empirical results show that both exploratory and exploitative knowledge accumulation can significantly promote manufacturing digital transformation. Keeping ambidextrous knowledge accumulation in parallel is more conducive than keeping single-dimensional knowledge accumulation. Besides, dynamic capability positively moderates the relationship between ambidextrous knowledge accumulation and manufacturing digital transformation. Moreover, the heterogeneity test shows that the impact of ambidextrous knowledge accumulation and dynamic capabilities on manufacturing digital transformation varies widely across different industry segments or different regions.

Originality/value

First, this paper shifts attention to the role of ambidextrous knowledge accumulation in manufacturing digital transformation and expands the connotation and extension of knowledge accumulation. Second, this study reveals that dynamic capability is a vital driver of digital transformation, which corroborates the previous findings of dynamic capability as an important driver and contributes to enriching the knowledge management literature. Third, this paper provides a comprehensive micro measurement of ambidextrous knowledge accumulation and digital transformation based on the development characteristics of the digital economy era, which provides a theoretical basis for subsequent research.
Amazon Prime’s growth story faces hurdles in India
Authors: Saldanha Avil
Published: April 2024

Research methodology

A secondary research method was used to collect data for this case. The authors have made use of newspaper articles and articles by experts published in the public domain.

Case overview/synopsis

This case discusses the dilemma faced by Amazon Prime Video in India regarding content. Amazon Prime Video attained success and rapid growth in India ever since its entry into the Indian over the top (OTT) market in 2016. However, the pursuit of attractive and bold content landed Amazon Prime Video in a legal tangle in India. Amazon Prime Video was accused of hurting the religious and political sentiments of Indians by broadcasting bold shows like Tandaav, Family Man, Mirzapur, Family Man 2, etc. Litigations against Amazon Prime Video were filed in the Indian courts by members of religious and political organizations. Protests and online campaigns on Twitter caught the attention of internet influencers in India. The key dilemma faced by the protagonist in this case is whether to continue streaming attractive content that may be controversial and may occasionally hurt the religious/political sentiments of some Indians or stream only safe content that may be deemed as boring by its young target audience.

Complexity academic level

Undergraduate and postgraduate students studying marketing management and international business courses in business management and commerce streams can use this case.