bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cryo-EM captures the coordination of long-range allostery and asymmetric electron transfer by a bi-copper cluster in the nitrogenase-like DPOR complex
Authors: Kashyap Rajnandani , Deveryshetty Jaigeeth , Walsh Natalie , Tokmina-Lukaszewska Monika , Bothner Brian , Bennett Brian , Antony Edwin
Published: April 2024

Enzymes that catalyze long-range electron transfer reactions are often structurally evolved to possess two symmetrical halves. The functional advantages and mechanistic principles for such architecture remain a mystery. Using Cryo-EM we capture snapshots of the nitrogenase-like Dark-operative Protochlorophyllide Oxidoreductase (DPOR) enzyme during substrate recognition and turnover. The structures reveal that asymmetry is enforced upon substrate binding and leads to an allosteric inhibition of protein-protein interactions and electron transfer in one half. Residues that form a conduit for electron transfer are aligned in one half while misaligned in the other. An ATP-turnover coupled switch is triggered once electron transfer is accomplished in one half and relayed through a bi-copper cluster at the oligomeric interface, leading to activation of enzymatic events in the other. The findings provide a mechanistic blueprint for regulation of asymmetric long-range electron transfer.

One-Sentence Summary

A bi-copper cluster coordinates electron transfer for substrate reduction in the nitrogenase-like DPOR enzyme and the structures reveal how allostery and asymmetry are enacted over 100Å and utilized for sequential electron transfer.
Dimer-monomer transition defines a hyper-thermostable peptidoglycan hydrolase mined from bacterial proteome by lysin-derived antimicrobial peptide-primed screening
Authors: Zhang Li , Hu Fen , Zhao Zirong , Li Xinfeng , Zhong Mingyue , He Jiajun , Yao Fangfang , Zhang Xiaomei , Mao Yuxuan , Wei Hongping , He Jin , Yang Hang
Published: April 2024

Phage-derived peptidoglycan hydrolases (i.e., lysins) are considered promising alternatives to conventional antibiotics due to their direct peptidoglycan degradation activity and low risk of resistance development. The discovery of these enzymes is often hampered by the limited availability of phage genomes. Herein, we report a new strategy to mine active peptidoglycan hydrolases from bacterial proteomes by lysin-derived antimicrobial peptide-primed screening. As a proof-of-concept, fivepeptidoglycanhydrolases from theAcinetobacterbaumanniiproteome (PHAb7-PHAb11) were identified using PlyF307 lysin-derived peptide as a template. Among them, PHAb10 and PHAb11 showed potent bactericidal activity against multiple pathogens even after treatment at 100°C for 1 hour, while the other three were thermosensitive. We solved the crystal structures of PHAb8, PHAb10, and PHAb11 and unveiled that hyper-thermostable PHAb10 underwent a unique folding-refolding thermodynamic scheme mediated by a dimer-monomer transition, while thermosensitive PHAb8 formed a monomer. Two mouse models of bacterial infection further demonstrated the safety and efficacy of PHAb10. In conclusion, our antimicrobial peptide-primed strategy provides new clues for the discovery of promising antimicrobial drugs.
RBC-GEM: a Knowledge Base for Systems Biology of Human Red Blood Cell Metabolism
Authors: Haiman Zachary B. , D’Alessandro Angelo , Palsson Bernhard O.
Published: April 2024

Advancements with cost-effective, high-throughput omics technologies have had a transformative effect on both fundamental and translational research in the medical sciences. These advancements have facilitated a departure from the traditional view of human red blood cells (RBCs) as mere carriers of hemoglobin, devoid of significant biological complexity. Over the past decade, proteomic analyses have identified a growing number of different proteins present within RBCs, enabling systems biology analysis of their physiological functions. Here, we introduce RBC-GEM, the most extensive and meticulously curated metabolic reconstruction of a specific human cell type to-date. It was developed through meta-analysis of proteomic data from 28 studies published over the past two decades resulting in a RBC proteome composed of more than 4,600 distinct proteins. Through workflow-guided manual curation, we have compiled the metabolic reactions carried out by this proteome. RBC-GEM is hosted on a version-controlled GitHub repository, ensuring adherence to the standardized protocols for metabolic reconstruction quality control and data stewardship principles. This reconstruction of the RBC metabolic network is a knowledge base consisting of 718 genes encoding proteins acting on 1,590 unique metabolites through 2,554 biochemical reactions: a 700% size expansion over its predecessor. This reconstruction as an up-to-date curated knowledge base can be used for contextualization of data and for the construction of a computational whole-cell model of a human RBC.

Author Summary

Human red blood cells (RBCs) have been studied for decades because of their unique physiology, essential oxygen delivery functions, and general accessibility. RBCs are the simplest yet most numerous of human cell types due to the loss of cellular organelles during their development process. This process has evolved to maximize hemoglobin content per cell to facilitate RBCs’ main function in gas transport. RBCs are integral to a variety of medical applications, such as blood storage for transfusion. Recent advancements in high-throughput data collection have greatly expanded our understanding of RBC metabolism, highlighting important roles and functions for RBCs in maintaining homeostasis in the organism in addition to oxygen transport. Here we provide a knowledge base for the human RBC as a genome-scale metabolic reconstruction. Our results highlight the complexity of RBC metabolism, supported by recent advancements in high-throughput data collection methods for detecting low-abundance proteins in RBCs. We make knowledge about the RBC findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable (FAIR). As RBC research is likely to see many translational medical advancements, a knowledge base for the contextualization of RBC data will serve as an essential resource for further research and medical application development.
P53 Orchestrates Cancer Metabolism: Unveiling Strategies to Reverse the Warburg Effect
Authors: Abukwaik Roba , Vera-Siguenza Elias , Tennant Daniel , Spill Fabian
Published: April 2024

Cancer cells exhibit significant alterations in their metabolism, characterised by a reduction in oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and an increased reliance on glycolysis, even in the presence of oxygen. This metabolic shift, known as the Warburg effect, is pivotal in fuelling cancer’s uncontrolled growth, invasion, and therapeutic resistance. While dysregulation of many genes contributes to this metabolic shift, the tumour suppressor gene p53 emerges as a master player. Yet, the molecular mechanisms remain elusive. This study introduces a comprehensive mathematical model, integrating essential p53 targets, offering insights into how p53 orchestrates its targets to redirect cancer metabolism towards an OXPHOS-dominant state. Simulation outcomes align closely with experimental data comparing glucose metabolism in colon cancer cells with wild-type and mutated p53. Additionally, our findings reveal the dynamic capability of elevated p53 activation to fully reverse the Warburg effect, highlighting the significance of its activity levels not just in triggering apoptosis (programmed cell death) post-chemotherapy but also in modifying the metabolic pathways implicated in treatment resistance. In scenarios of p53 mutations, our analysis suggests targeting glycolysis-instigating signalling pathways as an alternative strategy, whereas targeting solely synthesis of cytochrome c oxidase 2 (SCO2) does support mitochondrial respiration but may not effectively suppress the glycolysis pathway, potentially boosting the energy production and cancer cell viability.
Single-cell data reveal heterogeneity of resource allocation across a bacterial population
Authors: Pavlou Antrea , Cinquemani Eugenio , Pinel Corinne , Giordano Nils , Van Melle-Gateau Mathilde , Mihalcescu Irina , Geiselmann Johannes , de Jong Hidde
Published: April 2024

Ribosomes are responsible for the synthesis of proteins, the major component of cellular biomass. Classical experiments have established a linear relationship between the fraction of resources invested in ribosomal proteins and the rate of balanced growth of a microbial population. We extended the study of ribosomal resource allocation from populations to single cells, using a combination of time-lapse fluorescence microscopy and statistical inference. We found a large variability of ribosome concentrations and growth rates in conditions of balanced growth of the model bacterium Escherichia coli. Moreover, the ribosome concentrations and growth rates of individual cells are uncorrelated, contrary to what would be expected from the population-level growth law. A similar large heterogeneity was found during the transition of the bacteria from a poor to a rich growth medium. Whereas some cells immediately adapt ribosomal resource allocation to the new environment, others do so only gradually. Our results thus reveal distinct strategies for investing resources in the molecular machines at the heart of cellular self-replication. This raises the interesting question whether the observed variability is an intrinsic consequence of the stochastic nature of the underlying biochemical processes or whether it improves the fitness of Escherichia coli in its natural environment.
An inflection point in high-throughput proteomics with Orbitrap Astral: analysis of biofluids, cells, and tissues
Authors: Hendricks Nathan G. , Bhosale Santosh D. , Keoseyan Angel J. , Ortiz Josselin , Stotland Aleksandr , Seyedmohammad Saeed , Nguyen Chi D. L. , Bui Jonathan , Moradian Annie , Mockus Susan M. , Van Eyk Jennifer E
Published: April 2024

This technical note presents a comprehensive proteomics workflow for the new combination of Orbitrap and Astral mass analyzers across biofluids, cells, and tissues. Central to our workflow is the integration of Adaptive Focused Acoustics (AFA) technology for cells and tissue lysis, to ensure robust and reproducible sample preparation in a high-throughput manner. Furthermore, we automated the detergent-compatible single-pot, solid-phase-enhanced sample Preparation (SP3) method for protein digestion, a technique that streamlines the process by combining purification and digestion steps, thereby reducing sample loss and improving efficiency. The synergy of these advanced methodologies facilitates a robust and high-throughput approach for cells and tissue analysis, an important consideration in translational research. This work disseminates our platform workflow, analyzes the effectiveness, demonstrates reproducibility of the results, and highlights the potential of these technologies in biomarker discovery and disease pathology. For cells and tissues (heart, liver, lung, and intestine) proteomics analysis by data-independent acquisition mode, identifications exceeding 10,000 proteins can be achieved with a 24-minute active gradient. In 200ng injections of HeLa digest across multiple gradients, an average of more than 80% of proteins have a CV less than 20%, and a 45-minute run covers ∼90% of the expressed proteome. In plasma samples including naive, depleted, perchloric acid precipitated, and Seer nanoparticle captured, all with a 24-minute gradient length, we identified 87, 108, 96 and 137 out of 216 FDA approved circulating protein biomarkers, respectively. This complete workflow allows for large swaths of the proteome to be identified and is compatible across diverse sample types.

Graphical abstract created with biorender.com
Single-Cell Transcriptomics Reveals the Molecular Logic Underlying Ca2+Signaling Diversity in Human and Mouse Brain
Authors: Al Rayyes Ibrahim , Louhivuori Lauri , Ellström Ivar Dehnisch , Smedler Erik , Uhlén Per
Published: April 2024

The calcium ion (Ca2+) is a ubiquitous intracellular signaling molecule that plays a critical role in the adult and developing brain. However, the principles governing the specificity of Ca2+signaling remain unresolved. In this work, we comprehensively analyzed the Ca2+signaling transcriptome in the adult mouse brain and developing human brain. We found that neurons form non-stochastic Ca2+-states that are reflective of their cell types and functionality, with evidence suggesting that the diversity is driven by lineage-specific developmental changes. Focusing on the neocortical development, we reveal that an unprecedented number of Ca2+genes are tightly regulated and evolutionarily conserved, capturing functionally driven differences within radial glia and neuronal progenitors. In summary, our study provides an in-depth understanding of the cellular and temporal diversity of Ca2+signaling and suggests that Ca2+signaling is dynamically tailored to specific cell states.

One Sentence Summary

The expression of Ca2+signaling genes is finely tuned to cellular states, reflecting a spectrum of differences that range from lineage specificity to subtle functional distinctions within cortical radial glia.
The forgotten wine: understanding the ecology and composition of palm wine fermentation
Authors: Sumerta I Nyoman , Ruan Xinwei , Howell Kate
Published: April 2024

Palm wine is an alcoholic beverage that has existed for centuries and has important economic and socio-culture values in many tropical and sub-tropical countries. Lesser known than other types of wines, palm wine is made by spontaneous fermentation of palm sap by naturally occurring microbial communities. The palm sap ecosystem has unique microbial composition and diversity, which determines the composition of the eventual wine and is likely affected by geographical distinctiveness. While these features are well understood in grape and rice wine, these features have not been understood in palm wine. In this review, we gather information of microbial communities and metabolite profiles from published studies, covering a wide range of methodologies and regions, to better understand the causal links between the principal microbial species and major metabolites of palm wine. We assess palm wine quality across production regions and local practices to provide general characteristics of palm wine and identify specific regional information. These will provide better understandings to the function of microbial communities and metabolite diversity, the contribution of regional variations and to ensure product quality in this important and widespread, yet overlooked, fermented beverage.

One sentence summary

review and synthesis of microbial ecology and metabolites in palm wine fermentation across geography and their contribution to cultural food systems
A programmable seeker RNA guides target selection by IS1111and IS110type insertion sequences
Authors: Siddiquee Rezwan , Pong Carol H. , Hall Ruth M. , Ataide Sandro F.
Published: April 2024

IS1111and IS110insertion sequence (IS) family members encode an unusual DEDD transposase type and exhibit specific target site selection. The IS1111group include identifiable subterminal inverted repeats (sTIR) not found in the IS110type [1]. IS in both families include a noncoding region (NCR) of significant length and, as each individual IS or group of closely related IS selects a different site, we had previously proposed that an NCR-derived RNA was involved in target selection [2]. Here, we found that the NCR is usually downstream of the transposase gene in IS1111family IS and upstream in the IS110type. Four IS1111and one IS110family members that target different sequences were used to demonstrate that the NCR determines a short seeker RNA (seekRNA) that co-purified with the transposase. The seekRNA was essential for transposition of the IS or a cargo flanked by IS ends from and to the preferred target. Short sequences matching both top and bottom strands of the target were identified in the seekRNA but their order in IS1111and IS110family IS was reversed. Reprogramming the seekRNA and donor flank to target a different site was demonstrated, indicating future biotechnological potential for these systems.
Interplay of hierarchical dynamics and their microscopic structures of polyampholyte gels and proteins
Authors: Zhao Yi Hui , Muthukumar Murugappan , Jia Di
Published: April 2024

Polyampholyte gel is a perfect physics model to mimic condensed state of proteins. We have studied the hierarchical dynamics of polyampholyte gels by dynamic light scattering. In addition to the normal gel mode, which indicates the gel elasticity, we also discovered a new mode with a stretched exponential decay with the stretched exponent β = 1/3, and a diffusive exponential decay, which indicates the coupled motion between counterion and the polyampholyte backbone. After dialysis to low salt concentration, the coupled motion of the counterion will go away, so that there are only two modes. Combined with a newly developed theory, we attribute this stretched exponential mode to hierarchical dynamics of the segments between two crosslinking junctions, whose segmental distribution obeys Poisson distribution. As salt concentration inside the gel increases, β decreases from 0.38 to 0.33, which is consistent with theoretical results. The gel with the molar charge ratio R=1, which is at the charge balance point, has the highest value β = 0.38. As long as R deviates further away from the charge balance point from either side, the β values decrease. When the gel is 100% positive charged, their dynamic light scattering results will go back to that of the normal polyelectrolyte gels.
The interplay between light, arsenic and H2O2 controls oxygenic photosynthesis in a Precambrian analog cyanobacterial mat.
Authors: Castillejos Sepulveda Andrea , Speth Daan R. , Kerl Carolin , Doherty-Weason Daniel , Vignale Federico A. , Santha Kinga , Chennu Arjun , Mohr Wiebke , Merz Elisa , de Beer Dirk , Farias Maria E. , Klatt Judith
Published: April 2024

The regulation of O2 production by cyanobacteria is critical to understanding the coevolution of oxygenic photosynthesis (OP) and Earth's redox landscape. This includes their response to electron donors for competitive anoxygenic photosynthesis, like arsenic. In this work, we assessed the effect of arsenic cycling on photosynthetic activity in a modern cyanobacterial mat thriving beneath an arsenate-rich (~9-10 μM) water column in the high-altitude central Andes, using biogeochemical and omics approaches. Microsensor measurements and hyperspectral imaging revealed two O2- producing cyanobacterial layers. During the afternoon, OP ceased in the lower, Chl fdominated layer. Ex-situ measurements revealed that the combination of high light and arsenic induced a prominent rise in local H2O2 concentration, which then coincided with the interruption of OP. Mat incubations suggested that after OP ceased, cyanobacteria transitioned to As(III)-driven anoxygenic photosynthesis using far-red light. Additional incubations and metatranscriptomics on in-situ samples reveal simultaneous As(V) reduction during the day, at sufficiently high rates to supply electron donors for anoxygenic photosynthesis. This study proposes that As(III) can serve as an alternative electron donor for cyanobacterial photosynthesis. It also reveals the crucial role of arsenic in moderating OP, a consequence of the interaction between arsenic and reactive oxygen species under high irradiance. Given the widespread abundance of arsenic in the Precambrian, we further discuss how this regulatory mechanism could have played an important role in the early evolution of OP.
Decision support tool for physical health (DST-PH): stratifying risks to reduce avoidable deaths in people with intellectual disability
Authors: Jaydeokar Sujeet , Odiyoor Mahesh , Bohen Faye , Motterhead Trixie , Acton Daniel James
Published: April 2024

Purpose

People with intellectual disability die prematurely and from avoidable causes. Innovative solutions and proactive strategies have been limited in addressing this disparity. This paper aims to detail the process of developing a risk stratification tool to identify those individuals who are higher risk of premature mortality.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used population health management principles to conceptualise a risk stratification tool for avoidable deaths in people with intellectual disability. A review of the literature examined the existing evidence of causes of death in people with intellectual disability. A qualitative methodology using focused groups of specialist clinicians was used to understand the factors that contributed towards avoidable deaths in people with intellectual disability. Delphi groups were used for consensus on the variables for inclusion in the risk stratification tool (Decision Support Tool for Physical Health).

Findings

A pilot of the Decision Support Tool for Physical Health within specialist intellectual disability service demonstrated effective utility and acceptability in clinical practice. The tool has also demonstrated good face and construct validity. A further study is currently being completed to examine concurrent and predictive validity of the tool.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the only study that has used a systematic approach to designing a risk stratification tool for identifying premature mortality in people with intellectual disability. The Decision Support Tool for Physical Health in clinical practice aims to guide clinical responses and prioritise those identified as at higher risk of avoidable deaths.
Exploring the moderating effect of brand image on the relationship between customer satisfaction and repurchase intentions in the fast-food industry
Authors: Veas-González Iván , Carrión-Bósquez Nelson Geovany , Serrano-Malebran Jorge , Veneros-Alquinta Diana , García-Umaña Andrés , Campusano-Campusano Matías
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to determine whether the brand image of fast-food restaurants moderates the relationship between satisfaction and loyalty among Chilean customers.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was conducted using a structural equation modeling approach and involved a sample of 1,000 fast-food customers who were surveyed through nonprobabilistic sampling with a questionnaire consisting of 21 items. The instrument underwent validation by a panel of experts, and the results obtained were processed using the statistical software Smart PLS4. Convergent validity, discriminant validity and the structural model were tested to assess the acceptance or rejection of the proposed hypotheses.

Findings

The results of the research indicate that product quality, service quality and physical environment are crucial factors influencing customer satisfaction and shaping customer loyalty. However, it was found that brand image does not moderate the relationship between satisfaction and loyalty in fast-food consumption.

Originality/value

The present study contributes to the field of knowledge on fast-food consumption behavior and unveils findings that help fill knowledge gaps regarding the influence of restaurant brand image on the relationship between satisfaction and consumption loyalty. Thus, it demonstrates that, for certain customers, the brand becomes an irrelevant factor for their consumption loyalty as long as the restaurant offers product quality, excellent service and a pleasant physical environment.
Implementing a stakeholder capitalism approach through values-based leadership: case studies in the private, nonprofit and educational sectors
Authors: Gring-Pemble Lisa , Unruh Gregory , Shaked Efrat
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Stakeholder capitalism has gained attention among business practitioners and academia, often discussed within the context of corporate social responsibility, ethical practices and values-based leadership. Many societal institutions, including businesses and higher education institutions, have a role to play in the transition toward stakeholder capitalism. This study aims to discuss insights gained from a multiyear research and pedagogical project coordinated among a group of academics and an Israel-based holding company to study the implementation of a values-based leadership process focused on establishing a stakeholder-oriented model in a variety of organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

Conducted over a decadal period, this project relied on a qualitative case study methodology. The project was conceived as an exploratory and inductive study examining organizations that implemented a values-based leadership model and a university that used this model for curriculum and pedagogy. Semi-structured interviews, observations of leadership practices and operations, and substantive reviews of organizational documents informed the study’s iterative methodology.

Findings

The case studies presented explore the benefits of a stakeholder capitalism and values-based leadership transformation in organizations and highlight the importance of senior leadership engagement at the outset to set the tone and direction of implementation while also role modeling values-based behaviors for the organization. The utility of aligning the new values-based approach with existing elements of the organizational culture and priorities was also identified in addition to the benefit of individuals linking the new values initiative to their personal values and life. These practices, and a broader stakeholder dialogue on values, helped establish a transition that was inclusive within the organizational hierarchy and in its connections to the larger society. The cases also explored how stakeholder principles and values-based leadership models can be integrated into management education based on the outcomes of the organizational investigations.

Originality/value

These case studies offer insight into the implementation of a values-based leadership framework, which draws on stakeholder theory, in diverse organizations across a for-profit to non-profit spectrum. These studies also provide a unique opportunity to evaluate the implementation of a common values framework in different sectors. The cases further highlight the potential role of business-education sectoral partnerships in educating a workforce that is dedicated to business for good.
The fragmentation of climate change adaptation – the Sweden case
Authors: Rylenius Tomas Wörlund , Hamza Mo
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to challenge the view of Sweden’s climate leadership by problematizing its domestic climate adaptation governance and highlighting the need for a more holistic view of adaptation. The paper highlights aspects that are troublesome for not only the built environment along coastlines but also the future of Sweden’s standing as a climate leader. The paper concludes with recommendations addressing the key areas of climate adaptation fragmentation in Sweden and calls for a more holistic view of adaptation, and one that takes into account resources, collaboration and coherence of governance vision.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is a comprehensive analysis of internal governance processes in climate change adaptation. It is based on an extensive literature review and semi-structured interviews at the local level – i.e. municipalities – who have the primary responsibility for adaptation to climate change in Sweden.

Findings

Findings point to three-fold concerns. First, there is a lack of clarity on roles and responsibilities in adaptation among municipalities, regions and governmental agencies. Second, the gap between available finance and actual needs for climate change adaptation presents a major challenge when channels and pathways are not clear either. Finally, some adaptation strategies on both the local and national scales may be maladaptive in the long term.

Originality/value

Sweden consistently ranks highly in different climate performance indices and has acquired an international reputation as a climate leader. The paper challenges this narrative. Through a closer look the paper’s findings reveal a more fragmented picture of climate adaptation governance in the country with a myriad of unresolved questions and ad hoc solutions, where adaptation challenges are more pronounced and manifest in the built environment along the coastlines.
An empirical study on technology readiness level of industries to use green hydrogen in India: role of policy interventions
Authors: Harichandan Sidhartha , Kar Sanjay Kumar
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the determinants influencing industrial adoption of green hydrogen amidst the global transition towards sustainability. Recognizing green hydrogen as a pivotal clean energy alternative for industrial applications is critical for understanding its potential integration into sustainable practices.

Design/methodology/approach

This research examines the impact of factors such as innovativeness, perceived ease of use, user comfort, optimism and governmental policies on the industrial intention towards green hydrogen usage. Using responses from 227 Indian industry professionals and conducting analysis via the SmartPLS software, the study reveals a discernible discomfort among industrial workers pertaining to the daily application of green hydrogen.

Findings

The research presents an array of policy recommendations for stakeholders. Emphasized strategies include the introduction of green hydrogen certificates, sustainable public procurement mechanisms, tax incentives, green labelling protocols and the establishment of a dedicated hydrogen skill development council, all of which can significantly influence the trajectory of green hydrogen adoption within the industrial sector.

Originality/value

This research synthesizes various elements, from industry perception and challenges to policy implications, presenting a holistic view of green hydrogen’s potential role in industry decarbonization and SDG realization. In essence, this study deepens not only the empirical understanding but also pioneers fresh theoretical frameworks, setting a precedent for subsequent academic endeavours.
Oil price, energy consumption and CO2 emissions as growth determinants: a PVAR system GMM approach
Authors: Ajayi Temitope Abraham
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to revisit the empirical debate about the asymmetric relationship between oil prices, energy consumption, CO2 emissions and economic growth in a panel of 184 countries from 1981 to 2020.

Design/methodology/approach

A relatively new research method, the PVAR system GMM, is applied.

Findings

The outcome of the PVAR system GMM model at the group level in the study suggests that oil prices exert a positive but statistically insignificant effect on economic growth. Energy consumption is inversely related to economic growth but statistically significant, and the correlation between CO2 emissions and economic growth is negative but statistically insignificant. The Granger causality test indicates that oil prices, CO2 emissions, oil rents, energy consumption and savings jointly Granger-cause economic growth. A unidirectional causality runs from energy consumption, savings and economic growth to oil prices. At countries’ income grouping levels, oil prices, oil rent, CO2 emissions, energy consumption and savings jointly Granger-cause economic growth for the high-income and upper-middle-income countries groups only, while those variables did not jointly Granger-cause economic growth for the low-income and lower-middle-income countries groups. The modulus emanating from the eigenvalue stability condition with the roots of the companion matrix indicates that the model is stable. The results support the asymmetric impacts of oil prices on economic growth and aid policy formulation, particularly the cross-country disparities regarding the nexus between oil prices and growth.

Originality/value

From a methodological perspective, to the best of the author’s knowledge, the study is the first attempt to use the PVAR system GMM and such a large sample group of 184 economies in the post-COVID-19 era to examine the impacts of oil prices on countries’ growth while controlling for other crucial variables, which is noteworthy. Two, using the World Bank categorisation of countries according to income groups, the study adds another layer of contribution to the literature by decomposing the 184 sample economies into four income groups: high-income, low-income, upper-middle-income and lower-middle-income groups to investigate the potential for asymmetric effects of oil prices on growth, the first of its kind in the post-COVID-19 period.
Foregrounding why and when inclusive leadership triggers customer stewardship in hospitality organizations
Authors: Usman Muhammad , Alqassimi Omaima , Nusairi Asmaa Mohamed Ahmed , Abul Osman , Hussain Syed Ali
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the potential positive correlation between inclusive leadership and hotel frontline employees’ (FLEs) customer stewardship (CS) behavior, using the conservation of resource theory as its foundation. It hypothesizes that role breadth self-efficacy (RBSE) acts as a mediating factor in this relationship, with employee conscientiousness serving as a significant moderating variable.

Design/methodology/approach

A time-lagged survey design was used, spanning over three rounds to collect data from 348 hotel FLEs and 42 managers. The analysis was conducted using structural equation modeling in Mplus version 8.6.

Findings

The study revealed a positive association between inclusive leadership and FLE CS, both directly and indirectly through RBSE. The results also showed that FLE conscientiousness moderated the direct link between inclusive leadership and RBSE, as well as the indirect link between inclusive leadership and FLE CS.

Practical implications

The evidence suggests that inclusive leadership behaviors among hospitality managers may elevate FLE CS behaviors, implying significant benefits for the success of hospitality organizations. Managers should focus on enhancing FLEs’ RBSE to further improve CS behaviors. In addition, by considering FLE conscientiousness, managers can craft targeted strategies to maximize the impact of inclusive leadership on CS behaviors.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the limited body of knowledge on the precursors of CS behavior by explaining both direct and indirect connections with inclusive leadership. Furthermore, it broadens the understanding of the conditions under which leadership most effectively shapes such behaviors.
Market power and bank risks: insights from India and Bangladesh
Authors: Das Suman , Pati Ambika Prasad
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate whether various types of risks faced by the publicly listed commercial banks of India and Bangladesh are driven by market power and provides comparative insights from both economies.

Design/methodology/approach

By using the adjusted Lerner index to gauge bank market power and applying the generalised methods of moments (GMM) regression approach, the research delved into the relationship between bank market power and three distinct facets of risk across a sample of 26 publicly listed commercial banks in India and 22 listed banks in Bangladesh spanning from 2011 to 2022.

Findings

The results indicate that for Bangladesh, both “competition fragility” and “competition stability” viewpoints coexist simultaneously across all risk types, supporting a nonlinear relationship between market power and risk. However, in the Indian context, a nonlinear association exists only in the case of credit risk, while the relationship with insolvency risk is linear, substantiating the “competition fragility view”. Apart from market power and bank-specific variables, GDP growth rate has emerged as a prominent driver across all risk categories in both countries.

Research limitations/implications

The filtration of banks is a limitation that might have influenced the outcomes. This study recommends that the Reserve Bank of India encourages further bank consolidation. Along the same line, Bangladesh Bank should closely oversee the growing competitive landscape. Furthermore, the regulators must monitor the elevated levels of non-performing loans to reduce credit risk so as to bolster the stability of their respective banking sectors.

Originality/value

This comparative study is the first attempt to analyse the market power and risk relationship and includes a novel bank-specific variable, i.e. technology, apart from other established variables.
Hospitality labor leakage and dynamic turnover behaviors in the age of artificial intelligence and robotics
Authors: Kang Juhyun , Shin Hakseung , Kang Changseong
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) adoption on job insecurity and its subsequent effect on turnover intentions within the hotel industry. It investigated how AI-induced job insecurity affects the likelihood of employees considering leaving their current hotel jobs for other hotels or for opportunities outside the hotel sector, mediated by feelings of job stress and insecurity.

Design/methodology/approach

Quantitative data analysis used 259 responses from frontline hotel employees. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to explore the factor structure and assess model fit indices. Structural equation modeling was then applied to test the hypotheses.

Findings

Findings reveal that AI awareness has a positive impact on job stress and insecurity. Moreover, job insecurity is found to positively affect turnover intentions, with a notably stronger effect observed for turnover intentions toward non-hotel companies. Additionally, the influence of social capital as a moderator on the relationship between job insecurity and turnover intention varies depending on the specific dimensions of turnover intention.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to enhancing both theoretical frameworks and empirical insights into turnover dynamics within the hotel sector. However, future research should take into account employees’ positions, roles, organizations and career levels by examining these factors in relation to technology awareness, job stress, job insecurity and turnover intention.

Originality/value

This study initially focuses on the phenomenon of dynamic turnover issues within the hospitality sector, offering empirical and practical perspectives on effectively integrating new technologies and managing human resources amidst the automation and AI era.
The ChatGPT dilemma: unravelling teachers’ perspectives on inhibiting and motivating factors for adoption of ChatGPT
Authors: Bhaskar Preeti , Rana Shikha
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to address the existing knowledge gap by investigating teachers’ adoption of ChatGPT for educational purposes. The study specifically focuses on identifying the factors that motivate and inhibit teachers in adoption of ChatGPT in higher education institutions (HEIs).

Design/methodology/approach

This research has used interpretative phenomenological analysis – a qualitative approach. Through in-depth interviews among the teachers, data was collected to identify the motivating and inhibiting factors that impacted teachers’ willingness to adopt ChatGPT. The data was collected from 48 teachers working across HEIs of Uttarakhand region in India.

Findings

The analysis revealed seven themes under motivating factors that encourage teachers to adopt ChatGPT for their educational purposes. These include time factor, tool for competitive edge, learning enhancement tool for students, research facilitator, benefits in educational settings, troubleshooter and easy to use. On the other hand, inhibiting factors comprise five themes, which include technical difficulties, limited features for educational and research purposes, tool for handicapping innovation and creativity, lack of personal touch and ethical considerations.

Practical implications

The findings will be valuable for HEIs in establishing policies that promote the appropriate and effective use of ChatGPT. Moreover, the study provides recommendations to ChatGPT solution providers for improving ChatGPT services for effective adoption of ChatGPT among teachers and implementation at HEIs. Further, it contributes to the body of literature by filling a knowledge gap about teacher adoption of ChatGPT in the HEIs. Through qualitative research, the study has pinpointed specific motivating and inhibiting factors that affect teacher adoption of ChatGPT.

Originality/value

Unlike previous studies that primarily explored the potential advantages and drawbacks of ChatGPT in education, this research study delves deeper into the topic. It makes a substantial contribution to our understanding of ChatGPT adoption among teachers by identifying distinct factors that either motivate or inhibit teachers from adopting ChatGPT for job related purposes. The study provides novel insights that were previously mislaid, thereby introducing a fresh perspective to the existing literature
Halal tourism and ChatGPT: an overview of current trends and future research directions
Authors: Battour Mohamed , Mady Khalid , Salaheldeen Mohamed , Ratnasari Ririn Tri , Sallem Ramzi , Al Sinawi Saleh
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The huge Muslim population has increased the demand for halal tourism products and destination factors in this niche tourism segment. Despite the growing body of research conducted regarding ChatGPT’s revolutionary impact on the tourism industry, the use of such an artificial intelligence (AI) tool in halal tourism needs more attention. This study aims to provide a comprehensive an overview of using ChatGPT in the tourism industry, specifically in halal tourism, and offer an agenda for further essential research questions exploration.

Design/methodology/approach

Through the intensive examination of the tourism literature dealing with AI and halal tourism, this review identifies the implications related to the use of ChatGPT for Muslim travelers and future trends in halal tourism.

Findings

This paper identified the possible utilization of ChatGPT in assisting Muslim travelers across various stages of their journey, encompassing pre-trip, staying and post-trip phases. Subsequently, this paper identified the opportunities and challenges associated with implementing ChatGPT in the context of halal tourism. Finally, the paper delves into potential avenues for future research.

Practical implications

The findings serve as crucial implications, contributing to the theory of halal tourism development and the applications of ChatGPT in halal tourism.

Originality/value

This paper provides essential foundational knowledge for upcoming research on halal tourism theory, ChatGPT and the development of halal tourism sector.
Necessity the mother of (Re) invention – a scoping review
Authors: Broadway-Horner Matt
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this scoping review is to find studies testing out psychological interventions to help victims of conversion therapy. Life after conversion therapy can be devastating; nonetheless, what treatment modalities are available for this population?

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts scoping review process using JBI protocol.

Findings

There are minimal results to conclude upon. The paper presents discussion on future research and inquiry. The author introduces a positive autoethnography, adapting the model created by Tedeschi and Calhoun (2004) to create the post-conversion recovery process to aid recovery.

Research limitations/implications

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing and positive autoethnography offer valuable insights, but further research is needed to help survivors.

Practical implications

To reduce the current death-by-suicide trends, more education and training are needed to help this specialised group.

Social implications

The suicide rates for sexual minority conversion therapy victims are eight times higher than those of other sexual minority groups and isolation levels. A single point of entry pathway for conversion therapy survivors is needed.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first review addressing gay conversion therapy and disfellowship. It requires further attention, and there are gaps in the knowledge that need to be filled.
Initial psychological assistance for military servants with symptoms of acute stress disorder
Authors: Kohut Оleksandra , Tokareva Nataliia , Poliakovska Olha
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine the psychological features of providing initial psychotherapeutic assistance to victims, in particular to military servants.

Design/methodology/approach

Theoretical analysis of scientific works; observation of servicemen in hospital conditions; conversations with servicemen and doctors; and interviews with foreign colleagues.

Findings

As a result of theoretical and empirical research, it was found that initial psychological assistance is more effective if it is provided in a timely and comprehensive manner in cooperation with medical assistance, if the recommended exercises are performed systematically by the victim and if a certain algorithm for providing initial psychotherapeutic assistance is used.

Originality/value

The authors present their own algorithm for providing initial psychological assistance to military servants: psychophysiological stabilization; adjustment of emotional balance; restoration of cognitive processes and acquisition of constructive coping strategies; and formation of life meanings that provide an opportunity to survive the crisis period of life. In this paper, the authors also note the importance of providing psychological first aid to victims of extreme situations in a timely manner, which helps reduce the intensity of symptoms of acute stress disorder and reduces the likelihood of post-traumatic stress disorder.
Board skill diversity and corporate environmental responsibility: the moderating effects of formal and informal pressures
Authors: Liu Chunli , Cheng Jing
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the impact of board skill diversity (BSD) on corporate environmental responsibility (CER). In addition, this study explores the moderating effects of formal regulatory pressure and informal media pressure.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses Chinese high polluting companies as the sample and uses regression analysis. Robustness checks, including instrumental variable regression, Heckman two-stage model and propensity score matching method, are performed to test the robustness of the results.

Findings

The findings suggest that BSD significantly improves CER performance. Both formal regulatory pressure and informal media pressure strengthen the positive impact of BSD on CER. Further channel analyses reveal that BSD improves CER performance by promoting corporate proenvironmental behaviors rather than by restricting environmental violations; skill diversity of executive directors has a more significant effect on CER than that of independent directors. Finally, the moderating effect of regulatory pressure is only significant after the implementation of the Environmental Protection Law, and the moderating effect of media pressure mainly concentrates on negative media coverage.

Practical implications

The involvement of directors with more diverse skills is essential to improve corporate proenvironmental behaviors. Companies should select qualified directors with different skills to further improve their performance on environmental protection and sustainable development.

Social implications

Regulators and standard-setters should develop efficient guidelines on corporate board governance to enhance the positive role of companies in environmental and sustainable development.

Originality/value

This study broadens the research on the determinants of CER by examining the influence of BSD on CER and the moderating roles of various stakeholder pressures, thereby providing a deeper understanding of corporate environmental performance and sustainable development.