bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Height-age as an alternative to height-for-age z-scores to assess the effect of interventions on child linear growth in low- and middle-income countries
Authors: Watson Kelly M , Dasiewicz Alison SB , Bassani Diego G , Chen Chun-Yuan , Qamar Huma , O’Callaghan Karen M , Roth Daniel E
Published: July 2024

Background

Assessments of the efficacy of interventions to improve child growth are often based on differences in mean height-for-age z-scores (HAZ) and stunting (HAZ<-2) in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). However, this approach does not account for children’s starting skeletal age and does not enable assessment of the extent to which interventions optimized linear growth.

Objective

To develop and apply a new method using height-age to express linear growth effects in RCTs.

Methods

Longitudinal individual participant data (IPD) from a Bangladeshi trial cohort were used to compare height-age estimates derived from individual-level heights, mean raw height, or mean HAZ. Then, using average height-age as a proxy for skeletal age, we developed the ‘proportion of maximal benefit’ (PMB) metric to quantify intervention effects relative to optimal growth for children’s starting skeletal age. Optimal growth occurs when height-age increases in parallel with chronological age (i.e., PMB=100%) whereas no effect (versus control) corresponds to a PMB of 0%. Linear growth outcomes in 4 published RCTs of nutrition-specific interventions were re-expressed as mean height-age and PMB, and compared to effects conventionally expressed as intervention-versus-control mean differences (MD) in HAZ.

Results

Mean height-age could be derived from any published estimate of mean raw height or mean HAZ; however, to calculate the PMB, height or HAZ data were required at both the beginning and end of the observation period. Interpretations of intervention effects were consistent when expressed as either the height-age MD or HAZ MD. In contrast, the PMB does not have a corresponding metric on the HAZ scale, and therefore provided a new way to quantify intervention efficacy.

Conclusion

Height-age can be used as an alternative to HAZ to express intervention effects. The PMB has the advantage of conveying the extent to which an intervention improved average linear growth in relation to a biologically-defined benchmark.
Trans-eQTL mapping prioritisesUSP18as a negative regulator of interferon response at a lupus risk locus
Authors: Freimann Krista , Brümmer Anneke , Warmerdam Robert , Rupall Tarran S. , Hernández-Ledesma Ana Laura , Chiou Joshua , Holzinger Emily R. , Maranville Joseph C. , Nakic Nikolina , Ongen Halit , Stefanucci Luca , Turchin Michael C. ,   eQTLGen Consortium, Franke Lude , Võsa Urmo , Jones Carla P. , Medina-Rivera Alejandra , Trynka Gosia , Kisand Kai , Bergmann Sven , Alasoo Kaur
Published: July 2024

Although genome-wide association studies have provided valuable insights into the genetic basis of complex traits and diseases, translating these findings to causal genes and their downstream mechanisms remains challenging. We performedtransexpression quantitative trait locus (trans-eQTL) meta-analysis in 3,734 lymphoblastoid cell line samples, identifying four robust loci that replicated in an independent multi-ethnic dataset of 682 individuals. We prioritised a missense variant in the ubiquitin specific peptidase 18 (USP18)gene that is a known negative regulator of interferon signalling and has previously been associated with increased risk of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The SLE risk allele increased the expression of 50 interferon-inducible genes, suggesting that the risk allele impairs USP18’s ability to effectively limit the interferon response. Intriguingly, theUSP18 trans-eQTL signal would not have been discovered in a meta-analysis of up to 43,301 whole blood samples, reaffirming the importance of capturing context-specific genetic effects for GWAS interpretation.
An evaluation of reproducibility and errors in published sample size calculations performed using G*Power
Authors: Thibault Robert T. , Zavalis Emmanuel A. , Malički Mario , Pedder Hugo
Published: July 2024

Background

Published studies in the life and health sciences often employ sample sizes that are too small to detect realistic effect sizes. This shortcoming increases the rate of false positives and false negatives, giving rise to a potentially misleading scientific record. To address this shortcoming, many researchers now use point-and-click software to run sample size calculations.

Objective

We aimed to (1) estimate how many published articles report using the G*Power sample size calculation software; (2) assess whether these calculations are reproducible and (3) error-free; and (4) assess how often these calculations use G*Power’s default option for mixed-design ANOVAs—which can be misleading and output sample sizes that are too small for a researcher’s intended purpose.

Method

We randomly sampled open access articles from PubMed Central published between 2017 and 2022 and used a coding form to manually assess 95 sample size calculations for reproducibility and errors.

Results

We estimate that more than 48,000 articles published between 2017 and 2022 and indexed in PubMed Central or PubMed report using G*Power (i.e., 0.65% [95% CI: 0.62% - 0.67%] of articles). We could reproduce 2% (2/95) of the sample size calculations without making any assumptions, and likely reproduce another 28% (27/95) after making assumptions. Many calculations were not reported transparently enough to assess whether an error was present (75%; 71/95) or whether the sample size calculation was for a statistical test that appeared in the results section of the publication (48%; 46/95). Few articles that performed a calculation for a mixed-design ANOVA unambiguously selected the non-default option (8%; 3/36).

Conclusion

Published sample size calculations that use G*Power are not transparently reported and may not be well-informed. Given the popularity of software packages like G*Power, they present an intervention point to increase the prevalence of informative sample size calculations.
Trends, Gender, and Racial Disparities in Patients with Mortality Due to Paroxysmal Tachycardia: A Nationwide Analysis from 1999-2020
Authors: Goyal Aman , Saeed Humza , Yamin Saif , Abdullah  , Sultan Wania , Arshad Muhammad Khubaib , Sulaiman Samia Aziz , Mahalwar Gauranga
Published: July 2024

Background

Paroxysmal tachycardia encompasses various heart rhythm disorders that cause rapid heart rates. Its episodic occurrence makes it difficult to identify and measure its prevalence and trends in the population. Additionally, there is limited data on disparities and trends in mortality due to paroxysmal tachycardia, which is essential for assessing current medical approaches and identifying at-risk populations.

Methods

Our study examined death certificates from 1999 to 2020 using the CDC WONDER Database to identify deaths caused by paroxysmal tachycardia in individuals aged 25 and older, using the ICD-10 code I47. Age-adjusted mortality rates (AAMRs) and annual percent changes (APC) were calculated by year, gender, age group, race/ethnicity, geographic location, and urbanization status.

Results

Between 1999 and 2020, 155,320 deaths were reported in patients with paroxysmal tachycardia. Overall, AAMR decreased from 4.8 to 3.7 per 100,000 population between 1999 and 2020, despite showing a significant increase from 2014 to 2020 (APC: 4.33; 95% CI: 3.53 to 5.56). Men had consistently higher AAMRs than women (4.7 vs. 2.2). Furthermore, we found that AAMRs were highest among Non-Hispanic (NH) Black or African Americans and lowest in NH Asian or Pacific Islanders (4 vs. 1.9). Nonmetropolitan areas had higher AAMRs than metropolitan areas (3.6 vs. 3.2).

Conclusions

Our analysis showed a significant decrease in mortality from paroxysmal tachycardia since 1999, although there has been a slight increase in recent years. However, disparities remain, with higher AAMRs among men, NH Black or African Americans, and residents of non-metropolitan areas. These findings call for immediate public health actions to curb the rising trends and reduce potential disparities.

Clinical Perspectives What is New?

In this analysis of population-level US mortality data from 1999 to 2020, we observed an overall decrease in mortality due to Paroxysmal Tachycardia, despite a significant upward trend from 2014 to 2020.

Older adults had higher age-adjusted mortality rates than young and middle-aged adults, and men had higher mortality rates than women.

Non-Hispanic Black or African Americans had the highest mortality rates among racial groups, and those in non-metropolitan areas had higher rates than those in metropolitan areas.

What Are the Clinical Implications?

By addressing the effects of the pandemic and racial disparities, healthcare providers and policymakers can develop effective strategies to address this concerning trend.

Education should not only identify risk factors but also work to change the socio-cultural conditions that cause these risks.
Pharmacological Antagonism of Ccr2+ Cell Recruitment to Facilitate Regenerative Tendon Healing
Authors: Smolyak Gilbert , Rodenhouse Andrew , Nichols Anne E.C. , Ketonis Constantinos , Loiselle Alayna E.
Published: July 2024

Successful tendon healing requires sufficient deposition and remodeling of new extracellular matrix at the site of injury, with this process mediating in part through fibroblast activation via communication with macrophages. Moreover, resolution of healing requires clearance or reversion of activated cells, with chronic interactions with persistent macrophages impairing resolution and facilitating the conversion the conversion to fibrotic healing. As such, modulation of the macrophage environment represents an important translational target to improve the tendon healing process. Circulating monocytes are recruited to sites of tissue injury, including the tendon, via upregulation of cytokines including Ccl2, which facilitates recruitment of Ccr2+ macrophages to the healing tendon. Our prior work has demonstrated that Ccr2-/-can modulate fibroblast activation and myofibroblast differentiation. However, this approach lacked temporal control and resulted in healing impairments. Thus, in the current study we have leveraged a Ccr2 antagonist to blunt macrophage recruitment to the healing tendon in a time-dependent manner. We first tested the effects of Ccr2 antagonism during the acute inflammatory phase and found that this had no effect on the healing process. In contrast, Ccr2 antagonism during the late inflammatory/ early proliferative period resulted in significant improvements in mechanical properties of the healing tendon. Collectively, these data demonstrate the temporally distinct impacts of modulating Ccr2+ cell recruitment and Ccr2 antagonism during tendon healing and highlight the translational potential of transient Ccr2 antagonism to improve the tendon healing process.
Design of intrinsically disordered region binding proteins
Authors: Wu Kejia , Jiang Hanlun , Hicks Derrick R. , Liu Caixuan , Muratspahić Edin , Ramelot Theresa A. , Liu Yuexuan , McNally Kerrie , Kenny Sebastian , Mihut Andrei , Gaur Amit , Coventry Brian , Chen Wei , Bera Asim K. , Kang Alex , Gerben Stacey , Lamb Mila Ya-Lan , Murray Analisa , Li Xinting , Kennedy Madison A. , Yang Wei , Song Zihao , Schober Gudrun , Brierley Stuart M. , O’Neill John , Gelb Michael H. , Montelione Gaetano T. , Derivery Emmanuel , Baker David
Published: July 2024

Intrinsically disordered proteins and peptides play key roles in biology, but the lack of defined structures and the high variability in sequence and conformational preferences has made targeting such systems challenging. We describe a general approach for designing proteins that bind intrinsically disordered protein regions in diverse extended conformations with side chains fitting into complementary binding pockets. We used the approach to design binders for 39 highly diverse unstructured targets and obtain designs with pM to 100 nM affinities in 34 cases, testing ∼22 designs per target (including polar targets). The designs function in cells and as detection reagents, and are specific for their intended targets in all-by-all binding experiments. Our approach is a major step towards a general solution to the intrinsically disordered protein and peptide recognition problem.
Transcriptomic Insights into the Virulence of Acinetobacter baumannii During Infection: Role of Iron Uptake and Siderophore Production Genes
Authors: Ten Kah Ern , Rahman Sadequr , Tan Hock Siew
Published: July 2024

Acinetobacter baumanniiis a top-priority pathogen as classified by the World Health Organisation. It causes life-threatening infections in immunocompromised patients, resulting in prolonged hospitalisation and high mortality. Increasing cases of community-acquiredA. baumanniiinfections with rapid progression and severe infections have been reported. This study used the previously describedGalleria mellonellainfection model to investigate the virulence mechanisms of the community strain C98 (Ab-C98) via transcriptomic analysis using direct RNA sequencing. This strain showed greater killing and more rapid colonisation in the larvae than a clinical reference strain (ATCC BAA1605). Differential gene expression analysis revealed the significant upregulation of three major iron clusters: the acinetobactin and baumannoferrin clusters for siderophore production and the Feo system for ferrous iron uptake. Targeted knockout of siderophore production genes (basC,bfnDand isochorismatase family protein) significantly attenuated virulence in mutants with minimal impact on the bacterial growthin vivo. Overall, this study highlights the virulence ofbasC, isochorismatase family protein andbfnDin the pathogenicity ofA. baumannii. As these targets are highly conserved inA. baumanniiand the closely relatedA. pittiiandA. lactucae, they could serve as potential therapeutic targets for developing new antivirulence agents to combat these pathogens.
Single-Cell and Spatial Transcriptomic Analyses Deciphering the Three-Layer Architecture of Human Tuberculosis Granulomas
Authors: Yu Xia , Wang Jie , Wang Peihan , Liu Xiaoqiang , Li Cuidan , Ju Yingjiao , Liu Sitong , Dong Yujie , Wang Jing , Tuohetaerbaike Bahetibieke , Wen Hao , Zhang Wenbao , Niu Haitao , Xu Sihong , Jiang Chunlai , Jiang Xiaoyi , Wu Jing , Huang Hairong , Chen Fei
Published: July 2024

Background

Granulomas (defining tuberculosis histopathological feature) are central to the host’s defense againstMycobacterium tuberculosis, critically influencing patient outcomes. However, knowledge of human granulomas’ structure and function are incomplete. This study employs single-cell and spatial transcriptomics to dissect human granuloma’s cellular composition, structure, communication and function from 19 pulmonary, lymphatic and skeletal samples.

Results

Our study identified nine key immune-activated/signaling-active cell clusters. Notably, we delineated a three-layered granuloma structure: a core with macrophages (Macro-c09, Macro-c10) and occasional fibroblasts (Fib-c03); a fibroblast-rich (Fib-c01) periphery; and an immune-infiltrated intermediate layer comprising diverse immune-cells recruited by strong signaling-molecules (SPP1/MIF) from core/periphery cells. This study also shows granuloma heterogeneity across individuals and tissues.

Conclusions

By merging scRNA-seq with ST-seq, we offer an intricate single-cell perspective of granulomas’ spatial-structure and formation mechanisms, identify signaling-molecules and significantly changed genes as potential targets for host-directed tuberculosis immunotherapy, highlight fibroblasts’ crucial role in granuloma formation, and provide an important reference/improved understanding of TB.
The native glycocalyx is an ordered, self-assembled hierarchical micro- and nanoarray lamellar structure conserved in evolution
Authors: Garbarino Emanuela , Subbiahdoss Guruprakash , Scheberl Andrea , Reimhult Erik , Misevic Gradimir
Published: July 2024

The native ultrastructure of the glycocalyx remained unknown despite its functional importance in cellular recognition/adhesion and selective filtration. The major components of this universal extracellular coat, mucins, proteoglycans, glyconectins, and hyaluronan, share similar physicochemical properties of high molecular weight, glycan richness, and amply hydrated bottlebrush polymer morphologies with comparable intramolecular anionic charge distribution. The diversity of these glycoconjugate intermolecular binding under physiologically highly hydrated and specific ionic conditions keeps the native glycocalyx structure enabling it to function. Irrespective of the intricacy of the glycocalyx physiological milieu preservation and molecular organization, only a dehydrated non-native state presenting an artefactual unorganized fiber mesh was imaged. Using cryo-SEM after cryo-preservation with minimal sublimation to conserve water, ion distribution, and the native intermolecular interactions, we unveil well-organized lamellae of glycoconjugates self-assembled in hierarchical micro- and nanoarrays for the glycocalyx of human cell and self-assembled glyconectin glycocalyx from an evolutionary most distant sponge despite differences in sequence and composition. Our combined AFM binding strength measurements and cryo-SEM imply that evolutionarily preserved glycocalyx micro- and nano-morphologies are formed by thermodynamically driven self-assembly of glycoconjugates having similar physico-chemical properties.

Teaser

The extracellular glycocalyx coat is a self-organizing ultrastructure in human and sponge cells.
p16Highimmune cell - controlled disease tolerance as a broad defense and healthspan extending strategy
Authors: Triana-Martinez Francisco , Pierantoni Alessandra , Graca Daisy , Bergo Veronica , Emelyanov Alexander , Grigorash Bogdan B , Tsuji Shunya , Nakano Sosuke , Grosse Laurent , Brglez Vesna , Marty Pierre , Dellamonica Jean , Fornace Albert J , Trompouki Eirini , Hara Eiji , Seitz-Polski Barbara , Bulavin Dmitry V
Published: July 2024

The ability of an organism to overcome infectious diseases has traditionally been linked to killing invading pathogens. Accumulating evidence, however, indicates that, apart from restricting pathogen loads, organismal survival is coupled to an additional yet poorly understood mechanism called disease tolerance. Here we report that p16Highimmune cells play a key role in establishing disease tolerance. We found that the FDA-approved BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 vaccine is a potent and rapid inducer of p16Highimmune subsets both in mice and humans. In turn, p16Highimmune cells were indispensable for counteracting different lethal conditions, including LPS-induced sepsis, acute SARS-CoV-2 infection and ionizing irradiation. Mechanistically, we propose that activation of TLR7 or a low physiological activity of STING is sufficient to induce p16Highimmune subset that, in turn, establishes a low adenosine environment and disease tolerance. Furthermore, containing these signals within a beneficial range by deleting MDA5 that appeared sufficient to maintain a low activity of STING, induces p16Highimmune cells and delays organ deterioration upon aging with improved healthspan. Our data highlight the beneficial role of p16Highimmune subsets in establishing a low adenosine environment and disease tolerance.
Electrochemical cofactor recycling of bacterial microcompartments
Authors: Sutter Markus , Utschig Lisa M. , Niklas Jens , Paul Sathi , Kahan Darren N. , Gupta Sayan , Poluektov Oleg G. , Ferlez Bryan H. , Tefft Nicholas M. , TerAvest Michaela A. , Hickey David P. , Vermaas Josh V. , Ralston Corie Y. , Kerfeld Cheryl A.
Published: July 2024

Bacterial microcompartments (BMCs) are prokaryotic organelles that consist of a protein shell which sequesters metabolic reactions in its interior. While most of the substrates and products are relatively small and can permeate the shell, many of the encapsulated enzymes require cofactors that must be regenerated inside. We have analyzed the occurrence of an enzyme previously assigned as a cobalamin (vitamin B12) reductase and, curiously, found it in many unrelated BMC types that do not employ B12cofactors. We propose NAD+ regeneration as a new function of this enzyme and name it MNdh, for Metabolosome NADH dehydrogenase. Its partner shell protein BMC-TSEassists in passing the generated electrons to the outside. We support this hypothesis with bioinformatic analysis, functional assays, EPR spectroscopy, protein voltammetry and structural modeling verified with X-ray footprinting. This discovery represents a new paradigm for the BMC field, identifying a new, widely occurring route for cofactor recycling and a new function for the shell as separating redox environments.
Decoupling the influences of chiral damping and Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction in chiral magnetic domain walls
Authors: Akosa Collins Ashu , Tatara Gen , Manchon Aurélien , Mochizuki Masahito
Published: July 2024

We revisit the nature and impact of both the chiral damping (CD) and Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction (DMI) in uniaxial chiral ferromagnetic nanowires with broken inversion symmetry. We propose that CD, akin to its chiral energy counterpart (DMI), can be described in terms of the Lifshitz invariants permissible by the underlying symmetry of the system. This representation offers a clearer foundation for integrating CD into the dynamics of various chiral magnetic textures. We theoretically investigate the current-induced motion of chiral domain walls (DWs), driven by both spin-transfer torque and the spin Hall effect in the presence of CD. We demonstrate that it is possible to unambiguously separate the influence of CD from that of DMI by analyzing the current-induced dynamics. In particular, below the Walker breakdown (WB), the DMI does not affect the DW velocity, whereas increases in the strength of CD result in a decrease in the DW velocity. Moreover, for the spin-orbit torque driven motion, while the DMI enhances both the WB current density and the maximum attainable velocity below the WB, the CD only enhances the WB without affecting the maximum attainable velocity below the WB. Our findings open up intriguing opportunities for exploitation in exotic magnetic textures.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
In-depth modeling of tilt-to-length coupling in LISA’s interferometers and TDI Michelson observables
Authors: Wanner G. , Shah S. , Staab M. , Wegener H. , Paczkowski S.
Published: July 2024

We present first-order models for tilt-to-length (TTL) coupling in Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA), both for the individual interferometers, as well as in the time-delay interferometry (TDI) Michelson observables. These models include the noise contributions from angular and lateral jitter coupling of the six test masses, six movable optical subassemblies, and three spacecraft. We briefly discuss which terms are considered to be dominant and reduce the TTL model for the second-generation TDI Michelson X observable to these primary noise contributions to estimate the resulting noise level. We show that the expected TTL noise will initially violate the entire mission displacement noise budget, resulting in the known necessity to fit and subtract TTL noise in data postprocessing. By comparing the noise levels for different assumptions prior to subtraction, we show why noise mitigation by realignment prior to subtraction is favorable. We then discuss that the TTL coupling in the individual interferometers will have noise contributions that will not be present in the TDI observables. Models for TTL coupling noise in TDI and in the individual interferometers are therefore different, and commonly made assumptions are valid as such only for TDI, but not for the individual interferometers. Finally, we analyze what implications can be drawn from the presented models for the subsequent fit-and-subtraction in postprocessing. We show that noise contributions from the test mass and intersatellite interferometers are indistinguishable, such that only the combined coefficients can be fit and used for subtraction. However, a distinction is considered not necessary. Additionally, we show a correlation between coefficients for transmitter and receiver jitter couplings in each individual TDI Michelson observable. This full correlation, however, can be resolved by using all three Michelson observables for fitting the TTL coefficients.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Perturbative quantum evolution of the gravitational state and dressing in general backgrounds
Authors: Giddings Steven B. , Perkins Julie
Published: July 2024

This paper sets up a perturbative treatment of the evolving quantum state of a gravitational system, in a Schrödinger-like picture, working about a general background. This connects gauge symmetry, the constraints, gravitational dressing, and evolution. Starting with a general time slicing, we give a simple derivation of the relation between the constraints, the Hamiltonian, and its well-known boundary term. Among different approaches to quantization with constraints, we focus on a “gauge-invariant canonical quantization,” which is developed perturbatively in the gravitational coupling. The leading-order solution of the constraints (including the Wheeler-DeWitt equation) for perturbations about the background is given in terms of an explicit construction of gravitational dressings built using certain generalized Green’s functions; different such dressings corresponding to adding propagating gravitational waves to a particular solution of the constraints. Dressed operators commute with the constraints, expressing their gauge invariance, and have an algebraic structure differing significantly from the undressed operators of the underlying field theory. These operators can act on the vacuum to create dressed states, and evolution of general such states is then generated by the boundary Hamiltonian, and alternately may be characterized using other relational observables. This provides a concrete approach to studying perturbative time evolution, including the leading gravitational backreaction, of quantum states of black holes with flat or anti–de-Sitter asymptotics, for example on horizon-crossing slices. This description of evolution in turn provides a starting point for investigating possibly important corrections to quantum evolution, that go beyond quantized general relativity.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Boltzmannian state counting for black hole entropy in causal set theory
Authors: Homšak Vid , Veroni Stefano
Published: July 2024

This paper presents the first numerical study of black hole thermodynamics in causal set theory, focusing on the entropy of a Schwarzschild black hole as embodied in the distribution of proposed horizon molecules. To simulate causal sets we created a highly parallelized computational framework in ++ which allowed for the generation of causal sets with over a million points, the largest causal sets in a nonconformally flat spacetime to date. Our results confirm that the horizon molecules model is consistent with the Bekenstein-Hawking formula up to a dimensionless constant that can be interpreted as the fundamental discreteness scale in the order of a Planck length. Furthermore, the molecules are found to straddle the horizon of the black hole to within a few Planck lengths, indicating that entropy lives on the surface of the black hole. Finally, possible implications for the information paradox are drawn. In particular, we show how the horizon molecules model could yield a finite black hole temperature cutoff or even prevent full black hole evaporation.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Bis{(S)-(−)-N-[(2-biphenyl)methylidene]-1-(4-methoxyphenyl)ethylamine-κN}dichloridopalladium(II)
Authors: Anzaldo Bertin , Gutiérrez Pérez René , Hernández Téllez Guadalupe , Mendoza Ángel , Moreno Morales Gloria E.
Published: July 2024

The PdII complex bis{(S)-(−)-N-[(biphenyl-2-yl)methylidene]1-(4-methoxyphenyl)ethanamine-κN}dichloridopalladium(II), [PdCl2(C22H21NO)2], crystallizes in the monoclinic Sohncke space group P21 with a single molecule in the asymmetric unit. The coordination environment around the palladium is slightly distorted square planar. The N—Pd—Cl bond angles are 91.85 (19), 88.10 (17), 89.96 (18), and 90.0 (2)°, while the Pd—Cl and Pd—N bond lengths are 2.310 (2) and 2.315 (2) Å and 2.015 (2) and 2.022 (6) Å, respectively. The crystal structure features intermolecular N—H...Cl and intramolecular C—H...Pd interactions, which lead to the formation of a supramolecular framework structure.
Unraveling the role of digital leadership in developing digital dynamic capabilities for the digital transformation of firms
Authors: Albannai Najla Abdullah , Raziq Muhammad Mustafa , Malik Mehreen , Scott-Kennel Joanna , Igoe Josephine
Published: July 2024

Purpose

With the emergence of the digital era, the role of digital leaders in developing digital capabilities and driving their firms towards digital transformation has gained significant attention. Digital dynamic capabilities involve continuous engagement of leaders in sensing, seizing, and transforming activities needed to digitally transform their firms. However, little attention is given toward the role of digital leadership in developing digital dynamic capabilities. We seek to develop an understanding of the role of digital leadership in building digital dynamic capabilities for successful digital transformation.

Design/methodology/approach

We conducted a systematic literature review and looked at relevant articles using Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and Scopus databases with key search items being “digital leadership”, “dynamic capabilities”, “digital dynamic capabilities,”. We used AND, OR operators in between the key terms to search for the relevant articles.

Findings

Our conceptual framework and propositions demonstrate the digital leader's role in building three core dynamic capabilities: digital sensing (technological trends, digital scouting, digital vision, future interpretation, and digital strategies), digital seizing (organizational agility and digital portfolio), and transforming (redesigning internal structures and ecosystem partnerships) for successful digital transformation.

Originality/value

This study pioneers an integrated framework that elucidates the role of digital leadership in fostering digital dynamic capabilities essential for successful digital transformation. While previous research has examined digital leadership and transformation in separate silos, our work bridges this gap by defining and dissecting three core capabilities—digital sensing, digital seizing, and transforming. By doing so, we offer both academic and practical communities a nuanced understanding of how digital leadership shapes dynamic capabilities. The study serves as a foundational roadmap for future research and offers actionable insights for organizations striving to navigate the complex landscape of digital transformation.
Do artificial intelligence system adoptions foster production management supply chain performance in pharmaceutical manufacturing firms? An empirical exploring study from the MENA region
Authors: Al-Shboul Moh’d Anwer
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The goal of this study is to better understand the driving force behind the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in pharmaceutical manufacturing firms (PMFs) that are recognized as developing countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region that are listed by the Chambers of the Industries of Jordan, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Morocco, and Algeria. Furthermore, the effect of adopting and using AI in managing raw materials (RMs), products, parts, and components for PMFs through supply chains (SCs).

Design/methodology/approach

A self-administrated questionnaire survey was used to gather data from 95 out of 511 participating managers (e.g. manufacturing, supplying, IT, operational, and logistical managers) utilizing a quantitative technique with a random sample size. In fact, 18.8% of the 89 different manufacturing firms (MFs) in the MENA area responded, with five to six managers from each company. The raw data was analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM).

Findings

The study’s findings show that the readiness to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) in the production management supply chain performance (PMSCP) of pharmaceutical manufacturing firms in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) is positively and significantly influenced directly and indirectly by sustainable strategic supplier reliability (SSSR), shipping process dependability (SPD), technological factors (TFs), and infrastructure transformational development capability (ITDC).

Originality/value

As the studied countries are growing economies, such study findings might offer insightful consequences for stakeholders and policymakers regarding the significance of using artificial intelligence system adoptions in pharmaceutical manufacturing enterprises in the MENA region. The managers may also concentrate on the strong positive direct and indirect links between SSSR, SPD, TFs, and ITDC preparedness to accept AI adoption and its applications and systems in supply chain and production management departments and the consequences of informational and product delivery.
The impact of business model innovation and knowledge management on firm performance: an emerging markets perspective
Authors: Bashir Makhmoor , Farooq Rayees , Naqshbandi M. Muzamil
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Despite the growing literature on business model innovation (BMI) and its implications for firm performance, the research on the antecedents of BMI is still at a budding stage. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to bridge this gap by examining the causal relationships between knowledge management, BMI, competitive advantage, and firm performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A purposive sample of 300 micro, small, and medium enterprises was collected with more than 500 employees and total revenue between 50 and 500 million Indian Rupees, according to the Development Act, 2005. The collected data were analyzed using structural equation modeling through smart PLS 3.

Findings

The study’s findings show that knowledge management significantly influences BMI. This study also highlights the synergic impact of Knowledge management and BMI on firm performance. Furthermore, findings highlight the mediating role of competitive advantage in the relationship between knowledge management, BMI, and firm performance.

Practical implications

Understanding the impact of BMI and knowledge management is crucial for business owners, managers, and other stakeholders to plan for the continuous improvement of their businesses. Managers can secure a favorable position in the competitive market and improve organizational performance by paying attention to effectively managing their knowledge resources.

Originality/value

The study is one of the first few empirical efforts to investigate the causal relationships between knowledge management, BMI and firm performance. The study adds to the scant literature in this area by highlighting the mediating role of competitive advantage.
Improving processing efficiency through workflow process reengineering, simulation and value stream mapping: a case study of business process reengineering
Authors: Wang Chia-Nan , Vo Tran Thi Bich Chau , Hsu Hsien-Pin , Chung Yu-Chi , Nguyen Nhut Tien , Nhieu Nhat-Luong
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Business Process Reengineering (BPR) eliminates non-value-added (NVA) and essential non-value-added (ENVA) waste through radical process redesign to improve organizational operations. Comprehensive research integrating BPR tools is needed to understand their benefits for manufacturing firms. This research presents an integrated BPR-simulation framework tailored to the manufacturing sector to maximize process improvements and operational excellence.

Design/methodology/approach

The BPR design methodology adopts a systematic, multi-stage approach. The first phase involves identifying a specific improvement process aligned with BPR's core objectives. This phase analyses and redesigns workflows to optimize task sequences, roles, and stakeholder interactions while eliminating redundancies and inefficiencies via Workflow Process Reengineering. Visual process mapping tools, including VSM and simulation, pinpoint areas of waste, delay, and potential enhancement. The second phase follows the workflow analysis and aims to improve efficiency and effectiveness by redefining roles, rearranging tasks, and integrating automation and technology solutions. The redesigned process undergoes evaluation against key performance indicators to ensure measurable improvements are achieved. The final phase validates the proposed changes through simulation models, assesses the impact on key performance metrics, and establishes the necessary infrastructure for successful implementation. The proposed model is empirically validated through a case study of a leading apparel company in Vietnam, confirming its effectiveness.

Findings

The findings reveal that NVA activities are being eliminated, and ENVA activities in key departments are significantly reduced. This yielded a substantial improvement, reducing 25 out of 186 combined ENVA and NVA operations in the sewing facility, involving a decrease of 15 ENVA operations and the removal of 10 NVA operations. Consequently, this led to an 8.5% reduction in the proportion of ENVA operations, accompanied by a complete 100% elimination of NVA activities.

Research limitations/implications

The single case study limits generalizability; thus, expanded implementation across diverse manufacturing sub-sectors is required to establish validity and broader applicability of the integrated framework.

Originality/value

The experimental results highlight the proposed model's effectiveness in optimizing resource utilization and its practical implementation potential. This structured BPR methodology enables organizations to validate, evaluate, and establish proposed process changes to enhance operational performance and productivity.
The role of interpersonal conflict as a cause of work-related stress in construction managers in Ireland
Authors: Bruce Patrick John , Hrymak Victor , Bruce Carol , Byrne Joseph
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to provide evidence to support an emerging theory that interpersonal conflict is the primary cause of workplace stress among a self-selected sample of Irish construction managers.

Design/methodology/approach

Eighteen construction managers working in Ireland were recruited for this study. Using semi-structured interviews and interpretative phenomenological analysis as the research methodology, the causes of their workplace stress were investigated.

Findings

Participants reported that the principal cause of their workplace stress was high levels of interpersonal conflict between colleagues. The effects of this interpersonal conflict included avoidance behaviour, ill health, absences from the workplace and loss of productivity issues. Deadlines, penalty clauses, lack of appreciation, cliques, costs, communication, temporary contracts and delays were also reported stressors.

Research limitations/implications

A limitation of the study is the small sample of 18 construction managers and the limited geographical area.

Social implications

The social implications of this study could be to clearly identify that interpersonal conflict may be under reported in the construction industry, and there is a possibility that it is being misclassified as other workplace behaviours such as bullying, harassment and workplace violence. If this is so, this could aid future researchers in addressing this challenging workplace behaviour.

Originality/value

The current consensus in the literature is that the three main causes of workplace stress are bullying, harassment and violence. However, the role and importance of interpersonal conflict as reported in this study, with the exception of North America and China, is not reflected in the wider health and safety research literature. In addition, interpersonal conflict and its reluctance to be reported is largely absent from construction safety research. The findings of this study may be explained if the workplace stress research community is currently misclassifying interpersonal conflict as a manifestation of bullying, harassment or violence. If this is the case, interpersonal conflict needs further research. This is to establish if this cause of construction-related workplace stress needs to be reconsidered as a standalone phenomenon in the wider family of challenging workplace behaviours.
Recaudo: a sustainable restaurant with roots in passion and entrepreneurship
Authors: Domínguez Paredes Ana Laura
Published: July 2024

Learning outcomes

Upon completion of this case study, students will be able to understand Recaudo's contribution to sustainability; analyze circular economy principles in Recaudo's operations; understand Recaudo's contributions to Sustainable Development Goals; exploring Recaudo's role in social innovation.

Case overview/synopsis

The purpose of this case study is to understand sustainability practices in a Mexican microenterprise that employs fair trade, circular economy and local cuisine. Despite implementing these practices, the founder aims to expand impact and further professionalize them. The study poses questions to enhance her proposals in social innovation and aims to reach business schools and entrepreneurs initiating enterprises.

Complexity academic level

This case study can be useful for undergraduate students majoring in fields such as business administration, entrepreneurship, sustainability studies and hospitality management; for postgraduate students pursuing advanced degrees in areas like sustainable business management, social entrepreneurship and development studies; and for professionals and practitioners in the restaurant industry, sustainability consulting firms and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) focusing on sustainable development.

Supplementary material

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 3: Entrepreneurship.
Education first? Triggering vs jeopardising entrepreneurial intentions
Authors: Tormo-Carbó Guillermina , Seguí-Mas Elies , Oltra Victor
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Drawing on the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TBP) and Social Cognitive Theory (SCT), this study delves into how, in entrepreneurship-unfriendly environments, university students’ entrepreneurial intention (EI) is shaped, focusing particularly on the role of entrepreneurship education (EE) and an entrepreneurial family context (EFC).

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 688 students at a Spanish university was used for testing our hypotheses using GUESSS project data, through PLS-SEM regression and multigroup analysis (entrepreneurship course vs non-course students).

Findings

Positive and significant impacts of entrepreneurial attitude (EA) and entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE) on EI, and of subjective norms (SN) on EA and ESE, were found in both groups. Conversely, the impacts of an EFC on EA, SN and EI were significant only for course students, and the impact of SN on EI was significant only for non-course students. The impact of EFC on ESE was not significant for either group.

Originality/value

This investigation delves into how the TPB components shape university students’ EI in entrepreneurship-unfriendly contexts, and offers an original multigroup analysis to explore the role of EE in such dynamics. A novel contribution of this study is the finding that EE is a relevant catalyser for making entrepreneurial parents become an effective trigger for entrepreneurship. Conversely, EE was, unexpectedly, deemed irrelevant or counter-productive for some aspects of entrepreneurial dynamics. Further research is encouraged, delving into the role of social and cultural contexts.
Gender equality and women’s empowerment in Arab countries: a bibliometric review of the literature on SDG 5
Authors: Sweileh Waleed
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This manuscript conducts a bibliometric analysis of scholarly literature on sustainable development goal 5 (SDG 5) – gender equality, focusing on Arab countries. The purpose is to comprehensively assess the research landscape, identify trends, contributors and research hotspots and inform evidence-based policies for advancing gender equality in the region.

Design/methodology/approach

A descriptive bibliometric analysis was used, using the Scopus database for data collection. The study covers English-language research papers published in peer-reviewed journals between 1993 and 2022, using a comprehensive search strategy focused on gender equality in Arab countries.

Findings

The analysis of 634 papers revealed a steep rise in publications post-2015, aligning with the adoption of SDGs. The growth trajectory and citation analysis demonstrated a significant increase in both publications and impact over the last decade. The study identified prolific journals, subject areas, countries, institutions and authors contributing to the literature on gender equality in Arab countries. Notable research hotspots include domestic violence, female genital mutilation, women’s empowerment, microfinance and gender-based violence.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by providing a detailed bibliometric review of SDG 5 research in Arab countries, offering insights into the growth patterns, prolific contributors and research hotspots. The identification of recent research topics, such as child marriage in conflict contexts and female leadership, adds originality to the analysis.
Factors influencing cyberbullying among citizens: a systematic review of articles published in refereed journals from 2010 to 2023
Authors: Shahzad Khurram , Khan Shakeel Ahmad , Javeed Asfa Muhammed Din , Iqbal Abid
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Cyberbullying is a visible and prominent issue in today’s society. This study aims to identify factors influencing cyberbullying, discover its consequences on society, learn strategies and practices for dealing with cyberbullying and propose a framework to control cyberbullying in an online environment.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review was applied to meet the study’s objectives as the research methodology. A total of 27 peer-reviewed journal papers covering the study’s variables were included to carry out the systematic review.

Findings

The findings of the study revealed that social media, advancement of technology, lack of awareness, negative use of technology and smartphones affected cyberbullying in society. The study also showed the psychological disasters of cyberbullying. Prominent psychological dangers of the cyberbullying included emotional, psychiatric, psychosomatic, mental aggression, delinquency, depression, psychological distress, frustration, isolation, violence, unhappiness, suicidal tendencies, inferiority complex, embarrassment, negative emotions, self-harming attitudes and the passions of revenge. It also provided key strategies to stop and control cyberbullying activities. Key strategies included digital literacy, social support, emotional management, strict cyber laws and effective training sessions.

Originality/value

The study has provided a framework to stop and control cyber bullying for social survival. The study has offered significant theoretical, social and practical implications.