bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Work engagement in public primary healthcare centers: psychometric analysis of a scale for its evaluation
Authors: Cancino Víctor Cancino , Juyumaya Jesus , Rojas-Cabezas Germán
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to validate the 17-item Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES-17) within Public Primary Healthcare Centers, addressing the need for a reliable measure of work engagement among health workers.

Design/methodology/approach

This study conducted a validity and reliability analysis of the UWES-17 among community health workers in Chile, exploring its psychometric properties and structure, focusing on its three-factor structure and examining the causal relationships between work engagement dimensions.

Findings

The UWES-17 demonstrated a valid and reliable three-factor structure among Chilean health workers, with a significant construct dependence among its dimensions –vigor, dedication and absorption – highlighting their interrelated nature.

Research limitations/implications

While validated for community health workers in Chile, the UWES-17’s applicability across healthcare settings and professions warrants further investigation.

Practical implications

The validated UWES-17 can guide human resource practices in assessing and enhancing work engagement among health workers, potentially improving employee well-being and performance.

Social implications

Addressing work engagement and burnout among health workers is vital for a resilient healthcare system. This validated measure contributes to efforts to improve health worker well-being and healthcare service quality.

Originality/value

This study contributes a validated measure of work engagement specifically tailored to public primary healthcare centers, offering valuable insights for future research on health workers' well-being and performance. This research enhances the understanding of organizational dynamics within public healthcare settings.
The impact of marketing leaders on firm’s market orientation: evidence from a small emerging economy
Authors: Mac Lancy , Lee Jimmy C.M.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study seeks to investigate the impact of marketing leaders in (in terms of marketing education, experience and knowledge/skills) generating firm capabilities (market orientation) necessary to compete in a small emerging economy.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was conducted with top marketing executives in Macau. Questionnaires were disturbed to and completed online by 125 top marketing executives from various industrial sectors in Macau. Structural equation modeling was employed to test the hypotheses.

Findings

Results suggest that top marketing executives with marketing-specific education and functional marketing skills allow them to foster an overall market orientation of the firm. Marketing experience as well as other types of skills, however, are found to be unrelated to market orientation. Results also show a positive relationship between market orientation and firm performance.

Originality/value

This study seeks to address the void in the current literature which focus mainly on the mere presence of top marketing executive in generating favorable outcome with insufficient attention given to how this persona can play a key role in firms. While there is empirical evidence in the developed markets, this study aims to explicate the important role of marketing leaders in a small economy which is understudied. By showing that marketing leaders can actualize their benefits through the cultivation of market orientation of firms, this study also strive to address the call for more research in investigating the antecedents of market orientation.
The compounding effect of mandatory GHG emissions disclosure and voluntary ESG disclosure on firm value in Korea
Authors: Kim Sangil , Kim Kimin
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study attempts to examine the effect of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions disclosure and its compounding effect with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) disclosure on firm value in Korea. This study focuses on the unique institutional setting in Korea that implements mandatory GHG emissions disclosure and voluntary ESG disclosure.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a dataset comprising 25,968 firm-year observations from publicly listed Korean firms from 2000 to 2021, we applied an ordinary least squares (OLS) regression model to test hypotheses.

Findings

The results show that, in a voluntary disclosure regime, ESG disclosure has a positive impact, whereas in a mandatory disclosure regime, GHG emissions disclosure has a negative impact on firm value. The results also indicate that when a firm discloses both its GHG emissions and ESG performance information, the voluntary disclosure of ESG information synergistically mitigates the adverse effects of mandatory disclosure of GHG emissions information. This synergy contributes significantly to enhancing the firm’s overall value. The findings indicate that a firm can enhance its value by proactively disclosing ESG information, especially when it is compulsorily required to report GHG emissions data.

Originality/value

This study investigated the effect of corporate non-financial disclosure on firm value by shedding light on the differential attributes between voluntary and mandatory disclosures and between quantitative and qualitative information.
Suspicious activity reporting in emerging economies: the case of Iran
Authors: Imeny Vahid Molla , Norton Simon D. , Moradi Mahdi , Salehi Mahdi
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Countries with high levels of corruption can experience collusion between powerful elites and accountants to conceal, disguise and clean the proceeds of criminality. This study investigates the willingness of accountants to report evidence of money laundering in an emerging economy, Iran, notwithstanding potential personal and professional risks implicit in such due diligence. It evaluates the relevance of personal characteristics of accountants to the propensity to report, and the implications for policy makers in terms of audit team composition.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology is quantitative. Data was gathered by means of a suspicious activity scenario-based questionnaire administered to 1,128 of Certified Public Accountants in Iran, of which 281 responses were received. Four hypotheses were tested relating to the implications, if any, of gender, age, education and working experience for the propensity to report red flags indicative of money laundering.

Findings

Data revealed that accountants were generally more willing to report activity indicative of money laundering than was anticipated in an environment perceived to be characterised by professional and personal risks. Older accountants are more risk averse and more likely to report suspicious activity than younger counterparts who tend to disregard borderline indicators of money laundering. A significant red flag indicator of money laundering is a client's reluctance to provide information regarding controlling shareholders, debtors and creditors or to explain contrived and opaque corporate structures. Audit teams may be more effective when gender-balanced: female accountants tend to be more willing to report suspicious activity than male counterparts, reducing the risk of interference by powerful elites.

Research limitations/implications

The time frame over which the research was conducted was a single year; if it had been conducted over several years it may have revealed more nuanced and evolving reporting behaviour. The study was limited to Iran: a cross-comparison with another emerging economy or economies may have revealed useful contrasts.

Originality/value

The study contributes to behavioural accounting research in emerging economies. Limited empirical data is available regarding the influence of personal characteristics of accountants on their willingness to report suspicious activity in corrupt environments where personal safety and professional security may be at risk from powerful elites. It evaluates the implications of these for suspicious activity reporting policy, and for improving the effectiveness of the scrutineering role of audit teams. An innovative questionnaire was designed which may be suitable for future comparable research in emerging economies.
Genuine small talk, rapport, and negotiation outcomes in B2B relationship
Authors: Saragih Harriman Samuel
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Small talk is often regarded as important in business interactions, yet the effect of genuine engagement on B2B communication remains underexplored. Hence, the purpose of this study is to explore the concept of genuine small talk, contextualize its key dimensions and examine how it contributes to building rapport and mediates negotiation outcomes in B2B relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a qualitative abductive research approach for this exploratory investigation as it allows for an in-depth examination of the complex relational dynamics inherent in B2B communication. Data were collected through semistructured interviews with 35 industry professionals from diverse sectors, ensuring a diverse understanding of the phenomenon across different B2B contexts.

Findings

The study identifies eight core dimensions of genuine small talk in B2B interactions: empathy, curiosity, adaptability, active listening, a nonjudgmental disposition, respect for boundaries, positivity and humility. These dimensions collectively contribute to the development of rapport. The findings also highlight that rapport, fostered through genuine small talk, plays a mediating role in achieving favorable negotiation outcomes.

Originality/value

This study adds to the B2B marketing literature by advancing the understanding of genuine small talk and its strategic importance in building rapport and improving negotiation outcomes.
When will people with low moral identity importance support a charitable cause?
Authors: Trump Rebecca K. , Newman Kevin P.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This research aims to identify how resistant individuals can be persuaded to support a charitable cause. Prosocial acts, like supporting a charitable cause, are an important part of human behavior and yet it is not fully understood how to encourage particularly resistant individuals, like those with low moral identity importance (MII), to support a worthy cause.

Design/methodology/approach

Two between-participants experiments examined how those with low MII’s willingness to support a fundraiser is affected by the relative impact they perceive their contribution to have.

Findings

Those with low MII are persuaded to support a fundraiser when they believe their contribution will have an impact. Study 1 finds that inducing those with low MII with a high (vs low) self-focus increases their perceptions of their donation’s efficacy, which increases their likelihood of spreading the word about the fundraiser. Study 2 then demonstrates that those with low MII are more likely to spread the word about the fundraiser and to donate when others are donating a low (vs high) amount, and this is mediated by their perceptions of relatively high (vs low) donation efficacy.

Originality/value

Prior research has primarily focused on those with high MII. This research contributes to the literature by focusing on donation impact as a strategy to persuade particularly resistant individuals (i.e. those with low MII) to engage in charitable behaviors.
Co-designing a Children’s Cabinet: a school district–university partnership for youth well-being post-pandemic
Authors: Lowenhaupt Rebecca , Hegseth Whitney , Oliveira Gabrielle , Lai Betty
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This paper presents a case study of a school district–university partnership to co-design a Children’s Cabinet, a cross-sector initiative bringing together institutional and community leaders to address youth well-being in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. In a vibrant, immigrant-serving community in the Northeast United States, the partnership was initiated by district leaders in Spring 2021 after pandemic disruptions led to a youth mental health crisis.

Design/methodology/approach

Our descriptive, qualitative case study focuses on the structure and emerging design principles of the research–practice partnership, which established a Children’s Cabinet comprised of educational, government and community leaders along with researchers. From Spring 2021 through Spring 2024, we collected and analyzed member and youth interviews, ethnographic observations and artifacts from all meetings and process interviews with key partners.

Findings

We describe the structure of the partnership, including how researchers and district leaders collaborated on meeting facilitation and how researchers conducted and shared applied research. We then discuss three design principles that guided the work, including centering relationships, sustaining focus on key goals and embedding applied research.

Originality/value

As embedded research partners, our team is uniquely situated to narrate the nature and structure of the partnership and reflect on the design of our cross-sector initiative. Increasingly, universities are partnering directly with districts on school improvement initiatives. Our work shows how engaging in RPPs to bring together school, community and research partners can facilitate local leadership and collaboration to address complex, cross-sector goals such as increasing youth well-being.
Resilience rewritten: Ann’s journey from adversity to entrepreneurship
Authors: Elbanna Said , Younis Heba Samir Mohamed
Published: October 2024

Research methodology

None.

Case overview/synopsis

The case study follows Ann’s journey towards entrepreneurship, focusing on the challenges she faced and how early educational interventions influenced her life decisions. Despite numerous obstacles, Ann’s perseverance, bolstered by her family’s support and her passion, led to her successful reintegration into academia and the launch of an entrepreneurial venture in the UK. Her story highlights the dilemma of balancing educational attainment with entrepreneurial aspirations, especially for at-risk students. Ann’s experience prompts critical discussions about the intersection of education and entrepreneurship, the importance of experiential learning and the role of mentorship in realizing business ideas. The nurturing environment of her business school, through guest lectures and real-world success stories, played a significant role in shaping her academic and professional outlook. This case raises essential questions about the role of higher education in fostering entrepreneurial skills and integrating experiential learning within academic curricula. Ann’s journey exemplifies the power of resilience and determination in overcoming systemic and entrepreneurial challenges, particularly for women facing similar struggles. Her story illuminates the multifaceted process of turning a personal experience into an entrepreneurial opportunity, emphasizing the critical role of mentorship and support networks in developing a viable business idea.

Complexity academic level

This case study is best suited to undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in management and business-related courses that focus on entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial education. The case study is relevant in various business disciplines as it informs students of the process and challenges related to business start-ups and acquiring related capabilities. Instructors are encouraged to have students read the extensive reference list provided at the end to broaden their understanding and knowledge of entrepreneurship, including its processes, context and practices.
How research contributions of professor Jiju Antony have influenced the field of quality management: an appraisal and critique
Authors: Kapur Bharti , Vij Priya , Singh Navjit , Douglas Alexander , Pepper Matt
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to apply bibliometric techniques to critically examine the contributions of Professor (Dr) Jiju Antony in the domain of quality management research over a period close to 30 years (i.e. 1995 to 2023).

Design/methodology/approach

The study incorporates a bibliometric analysis approach using VoSviewer software package to critically examine the contributions and trends in publications on Scopus indexed publications of Antony, followed by an industry wide evaluation of contributions made. Thematic analysis of the bibliographic data was imported in comma-separated values (CSV) format by selecting Antony (last name) and Jiju (first name) in the author search tab in Scopus. The search was made on September 09, 2023 and bibliographic records of 429 documents were considered for the analysis. The analysis was carried out in terms of most frequent keywords used, sources with most frequent publications, thematic analysis of most cited works and global collaborations.

Findings

Antony has focused his research interest largely in the domain of quality management, publishing his research in top rated journals in the domain with a broad network of international collaborators. Antony has received 18,802 and 40,947 citations in Scopus and Google Scholar, respectively. This signifies the impact that Antony has created through his research publications. His major contributions are on the topics of six sigma, lean six sigma, continuous improvement, critical success factors and quality management practice implementations in various organizations. Diverse methodologies both qualitative and quantitative were utilized to conduct his research. However, his body of work is not without criticism. Such criticism includes the limited scope of work, with narrow focus on ISO 9001 and QMS standards, Total Quality Management (TQM). Critique also highlights the necessity for more depth, following insufficient exploration of distinctions between TQM and operational excellence (OPEX) methodologies like lean, six sigma, kaizen and agile. Antony’s work has yet to consider a diverse range of industry sectors, in terms of implementation of quality management principles, geographical location, the impact of national culture on corporate performance and explore data quality influence on decision-making. Notably, there is clear opportunity to consider the service sector in future research.

Originality/value

To best of the authors’ knowledge, there are few previous studies conducted using bibliometric analysis for analyzing the work of an individual. Therefore, the present study aims to set a trend whereby bibliometric analysis can be used to recognize and critically asses the contributions of other researchers in their respective domains.
A multicriteria decision-making model for risk management in an integrated management system
Authors: Cagnin Fernanda , Oliveira Maria Célia , Cauchick-Miguel Paulo Augusto , Pelissari Renata
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This paper proposes a multicriteria model for risk management to identify and assess risks associated with an integrated management system (IMS). The main benefit of the proposed model is its systemic and logical visualization, which may facilitate the understanding of this proposal’s practical application.

Design/methodology/approach

The research design consists of four stages: (1) conduct a literature review to establish risk management models in IMS; (2) collect data concerning risk management models in IMS from a large multinational automotive company; (3) propose a multicriteria model to define and assess risks as well as prioritize mitigation actions and (4) apply the proposed multicriteria model to the data collected in case-based research to evaluate the practical viability of the model to contribute to methods traditionally used.

Findings

The results showed that the proposed risk management model contributes to more reliable decision-making in an IMS. The application of the proposed model identified 85 risks in the total processes of the IMS, 31 of which were classified as high risk; thus, priority actions to be taken were defined. The risk classification and prioritization facilitated the implementation of measures to mitigate or eliminate risks, as pointed out by the company managers.

Research limitations/implications

One of the limitations is the fact that specific knowledge is required to maintain and update the multicriteria decision-making tool used in this study. Another one implies the approach to managing risks under the different ISO standards and sector-specific requirements, since this may require updates and customization of the proposed risk management model.

Practical implications

The implementation of IMS in contemporary business environments can be supported by a robust risk management approach. In addition, it provides the leadership with a holistic view of multiple aspects related to a company and fosters continuous improvement.

Social implications

The social implications of this study are assessed indirectly. This study contributes to the improvement of company management models.

Originality/value

Traditionally, the methods used for risk management in IMS are usually applied independently of techniques such as failure mode and effect analysis. The model developed in this work enables to manage risks continuously to achieve a systemic view of organizational issues and greater transparency of the processes.
Extramammary Paget's disease treated with of anti‐programmed cell death protein 1 therapy after docetaxel therapy failure
Authors: Narasaki Midori , Kato Junji , Sato Sayuri , Hida Tokimasa , Horimoto Kohei , Matsui Yoshiyuki , Shigyo Nobuaki , Uhara Hisashi
Published: October 2024

Extramammary Paget's disease (EMPD) is a rare skin cancer with no standard treatment for advanced‐stage disease. Although docetaxel‐based chemotherapy is common, no standard treatment exists. Pembrolizumab is approved for solid tumors with a high tumor mutation burden (TMB) and/or high microsatellite instability, and nivolumab was approved in Japan in February 2024 for unresectable advanced or recurrent epithelial skin malignancies. However, there is a lack of real‐world data regarding the efficacy of anti‐programmed cell death protein 1 (PD‐1) therapy for EMPD. We present the case details of three EMPD patients treated with anti‐PD‐1 therapy after docetaxel treatment, with TMB values of 17.8, 14.3, and 5.0 mut/Mb, respectively, and we review similar reported cases. Even in the cases with a high TMB, the response to anti‐PD‐1 therapy was not sufficient. Most cases involve second‐line or later treatments, so further research is needed to determine the precise effectiveness of anti‐PD‐1 therapy as a first‐line treatment.
Immune checkpoint inhibitor‐associated bullous pemphigoid: A retrospective and real‐world study based on the United States Food and Drug Administration adverse event reporting system
Authors: Tan Haowen , Chen Xiubi , Chen Ying , Ou Xuan , Yang Tao , Yan Xida
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to describe bullous pemphigoid (BP) associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) reported in the United States Food and Drug Administration adverse event reporting system (FAERS). We obtained reports of ICI‐associated BP from the first quarter of 2011 to the first quarter of 2024 in the FAERS database. The reporting odds ratio (ROR) method of the disproportionality analysis was performed to assess the potential risk for ICI‐associated BP. We also described the clinical characteristics of ICI‐associated BP and evaluated the time to onset (TTO) of BP developed after treatment with ICIs. Eight hundred and six cases of ICI‐associated BP were gathered, in which 56.58% of the patients were aged 65 years or older. The majority of patients were male, accounting for 68.49% of all cases. The prevalent potential cancer type was skin cancer (31.64%). The results of the disproportionality analysis showed that males (ROR = 2.10 [1.78–2.49]), patients aged 65 or older (ROR = 2.13 [1.79–2.55]), and patients with skin cancer (ROR = 2.08 [1.80–2.43]) were more likely to develop ICI‐associated BP. In comparison to cytotoxic T‐lymphocyte‐associated antigen 4 inhibitor and programmed cell death ligand 1 inhibitor, programmed cell death 1 inhibitor‐associated BP has a higher risk of development (ROR = 24.45 [22.52–26.56]). ICI‐associated BP had a median TTO of 204 days (interquartile range 57–426 days). ICI‐associated BP is a rare but important immune‐related adverse event. Our study provided helpful information to help medical professionals further understand ICI‐associated BP.
Prioritizing environmental and policy factors and solutions in sustainable mineral resources management for green growth in China
Authors: Hassan Hazrat , Li Cai , Ahmed Sheeraz
Published: October 2024

In the wake of the increasing environmental challenges and the urgent need for sustainable development, this study focuses on the complex issue of mineral resource management. Given the growing global demand for minerals and the environmental impact of extraction, the research seeks to uncover the solutions that promote green growth while effectively addressing the ecological consequences of resource utilization in China. In the study, six factors, twenty‐four sub‐factors, and five potential solutions have been identified influencing sustainable mineral resource management and green growth. The study utilizes fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) to assess these factors and sub‐factors. Following, the study utilizes fuzzy Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method to evaluate and rank five potential solutions for sustainable development. The fuzzy AHP results indicate that environmental impact mitigation, robust policy frameworks, and innovation in extraction techniques are the most crucial factors. The fuzzy TOPSIS findings indicate that technological innovation for sustainability ranks highest, followed by policy‐driven green growth, socio‐economic empowerment, enhanced environmental stewardship, and integrated circular economy approaches. These findings emphasize the critical role of advanced technologies and robust policies in promoting sustainability while addressing the socio‐economic and environmental dimensions of mineral resource management.
Commercialisation, exogenous shocks and nutrition: Evidence from smallholder farmers in Bangladesh
Authors: Hazrana Jaweriah , Mishra Ashok K.
Published: October 2024

This study empirically analyses the effect of agricultural commercialisation on food spending and nutrition outcomes in Bangladesh. We examine whether exposure to exogenous climate shocks moderates these relationships. We construct individual‐level nutrition measures and time‐varying climate extremes using nationally representative panel data. To address endogeneity concerns, we use an instrument variable approach. Results show that commercialisation leads to an improvement in the broad nutritional profile of individuals. However, the commercialisation–nutrition linkage is weaker for households exposed to frequent climate shocks than those in climate‐resilient areas. Importantly, climate shocks dampen the positive nutritional impacts of commercialisation and exacerbate existing inequalities in the nutritional status within the households. Women and girls appear disproportionately vulnerable to the nutrition‐weakening effects of weather stresses in commercialised agricultural households. This highlights twin policy challenges: strengthening smallholders' resilience to escalating climate risks alongside promoting gender‐equitable, nutrition‐sensitive agricultural commercialisation.
Sex estimation using metrics of the innominate: A test of the DSP2 method
Authors: Lesciotto Kate M. , Klales Alexandra R.
Published: October 2024

Sex estimation is a critical component of the biological profile, and forensic anthropologists may use a variety of sex estimation methods depending upon the degree of completeness and state of preservation of the skeletal remains being analyzed. The innominate is widely accepted to be the most sexually dimorphic skeletal element. The Diagnose Sexuelle Probabiliste (DSP) method, which uses 10 measurements of the innominate, was introduced in 2005 and updated as DSP2 in 2017. While DSP2 has been reported to have high classification accuracy rates in studies of South American and European populations, the method has not been widely tested in US samples, and few US practitioners incorporate this method into their casework. The goal of this study was to test the reliability and accuracy of DSP2 using a large, modern sample from the US (n = 174). Two observers, blinded from demographic information associated with each specimen, collected the DSP2 metrics. Intra‐ and interobserver error analyses showed acceptable levels of agreement for all measurements, except for IIMT. Classification accuracies exceeded 95%, with minimal sex bias, for both observers and using various measurement combinations; however, an inclusivity sex bias occurred with more males reaching the 0.95 posterior probability threshold required by DSP2 to provide a sex classification estimate. Based on its high accuracy, forensic anthropologists in the US may consider incorporating DSP2 into their casework, although we recommend excluding IIMT and using SPU with caution. Additional methods will continue to be needed when the posterior probability threshold is not reached.
Unlocking agro‐ecosystem sustainability: exploring the bottom‐up effects of microbes, plants, and insect herbivores
Authors: ZHANG Wei , STELINSKI Lukasz L. , MOHAMED Amr , WANG Guangmin , TETTAMANTI Gianluca , CHEN Moxian , HONG Mingsheng , DALY Ella Z. , BRUIN Jan , RENAULT David , KEYHANI Nemat O. , ZHAO Qi
Published: October 2024

Agricultural ecosystem formation and evolution depend on interactions and communication between multiple organisms. Within this context, communication occurs between microbes, plants, and insects, often involving the release and perception of a wide range of chemical cues. Unraveling how this information is coded and interpreted is critical to expanding our understanding of how agricultural ecosystems function in terms of competition and cooperation. Investigations examining dual interactions (e.g. plant–microbe, insect–microbe, and insect–plant) have resolved some basic components of this communication. However, there is a need for systematically examining multitrophic interactions that occur simultaneously between microorganisms, insects, and plants. A more thorough understanding of these multitrophic interactions has been made possible by recent advancements in the study of such ecological interactions, which are based on a variety of contemporary technologies such as artificial intelligence sensors, multi‐omics, metabarcoding, and others. Frequently, these developments have led to the discovery of startling examples of each member manipulating the other. Here, we review recent advances in the understanding of bottom‐up chemical communication between microorganisms, plants, and insects, and their consequences. We discuss the components of these “chemo‐languages” and how they modify outcomes of multi‐species interactions across trophic levels. Further, we suggest prospects for translating the current basic understanding of multitrophic interactions into strategies that could be applied in agricultural ecosystems to increase food safety and security.
NOTE AND DOCUMENT
Authors: Mcgovern Jonathan
Published: October 2024

This article revisits the year book report of Pilkington's Case (1455), a much‐used source of information about Lancastrian parliamentary procedure. It shows that our understanding of this case can be considerably improved by comparing the report with the original private act and plea roll record. Most importantly of all, the article demonstrates that Pilkington's Case concerned a dispute over the crown's ability to amend acts by altering the royal assenting formula.
Comparative study on the difference of saponins and nutrients in Panax notoginseng powder dried by new rapid drying technique and traditional hot air
Authors: Zeng Jing , Cheng YiFan , Pu RuiQi , Ning YiFei , Liu Min , Ma Ji , Cui Xiu Ming
Published: October 2024

Panax notoginseng (Burk.) F. H. Chen (PN), commonly known as PN, is a nutritious natural food with a long history of consumption and has traditionally been used for dietary purposes in the form of dried processed products. Currently, developed a dry processing at short time and room temperature (DRST), which is characterized by high efficiency and low cost. However, there are few studies on the impact of DSRT. In this study, the effects of conventional hot air drying (DHA) and the innovative drying technology DSRT on the key components of PN were evaluated for the first time. The results showed that DRST could obtain processed PN products with smaller particle sizes and that DRST‐treated PN could increase the content of five saponins by 1.38% for Ginsenoside Rg1, 0.1% for Ginsenoside Re, 0.83% for Ginsenoside Rb1, 0.16% for Ginsenoside Rd, and 0.36% for PN saponin R1, relative to the content of five saponins that could be increased by conventional DHA. The metabolome results yielded a total of 1401 metabolites identified and analyzed, and 201 metabolites showed significant differences between the two techniques, which were expressed as amino acids, flavonoids, and other nutrient‐active components. The results of this study indicate that the PN products produced by DRST technology have higher nutritional quality compared to traditional processing. This study provides support in the processing of PN and the development of PN products.
Dietary supplementation of probiotic Lactobacillus modulates metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease and intestinal barrier integrity in obesity‐induced mice
Authors: Qayyum Nageena , Ismael Mohamedelfatieh , Haoyue Han , Guo Honghui , Lü Xin
Published: October 2024

The impact of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei NWAFU334 and Limosilactobacillus fermentum NWAFU0035 on the amelioration of liver function, oxidative stress reduction, and lipid metabolism modulation in mice subjected to an obesity‐inducing high‐fat diet (HFD) model was investigated. L. paracasei NWAFU334 and L. fermentum NWAFU0035 supplementations over 12 weeks have been shown to have numerous beneficial effects in mice with induced obesity. These effects comprise the restoration of liver function and the reduction of oxidative stress within the liver. Furthermore, the supplementation led to a decreased content of fat accumulation in the liver, mitigation of the expression of inflammatory cytokines in the liver and colon, and a decrease in the expression levels of tight‐junction proteins, for example, claudin‐1, PPARγ, occludin, and ZO‐1. Additionally, a notable improvement in the colonic expression proteins, including IL‐6, TNF‐α, IL‐1β, Muc‐2, Muc‐3, Zo‐1, claudin‐1, and occludin. These proposed strains considerably decreased proinflammatory cytokines and influenced the regulation of lipid metabolism in the liver. These findings indicate that the potential mechanisms, primarily the impact of L. paracasei NWAFU334 and L. fermentum NWAFU0035 on obesity‐induced liver function in mice, involve two regulated pathways: downregulation of lipogenesis and upregulation of gene expression related to fatty acid oxidation and lipolysis. In other words, these probiotic bacterial strains might be beneficial in reducing fat production and increasing fat breakdown in the liver. They may serve as effective therapeutic supplements for alleviating abnormalities induced by an HFD.
Evaluation of moisture migration and microstructure of quick‐frozen wet rice flour after freeze‐thaw cycles and changes in texture, cooking, and sensory properties
Authors: Wang Yixuan , Pi Xiaowen , Zhang Rui , Zhang Binjia
Published: October 2024

This study investigated the quality changes of quick‐frozen wet rice flour before and after freeze‐thaw cycles. As the freeze‐thaw cycle was prolonged, the water mobility of quick‐frozen wet rice flour decreased and the pore size and porosity of the microstructure increased. As a result, the hardness, cooking loss, water absorption, and water precipitation of the rice flour increased, while the sensory score and viscosity decreased. Correlation analysis showed that porosity was positively correlated with the hardness and water absorption of rice flour, and negatively correlated with structural properties such as shearing work and resilience. Water absorption and water precipitation rate were positively related to cooking loss. Thus, moisture migration in rice flour induced microstructural changes to cause alterations in texture, cooking, and sensory properties. Interestingly, quick‐frozen wet rice flour still possessed good texture, cooking, and sensory qualities after two freeze‐thaw cycles. This study laid the foundation for the development of high‐quality quick‐frozen wet rice flour.
UPLC/HR‐ESI‐MS/MS and GC/MS profiling of Eriobotrya japonica L. fruit in correlation to its antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and anti‐arthritic effects
Authors: Waly Dina Atef , Abou Zeid Aisha Hussein , Mohammed Reda Sayed , Moustafa Sherifa Fahmy , El‐Halawany Ali Mahmoud , Ahmed Kawkab A. , Sleem Amany Ameen , El‐Kashoury El‐Sayeda Ahmed
Published: October 2024

Eriobotrya japonica Lindl. (Loquat) fruit is a subtropical edible fruit originally from China. It grows well in Egypt, but it is not widely known. In the current study, the fruit was extracted with 80% ethanol to get the total ethanol extract (TEE). A part of which was fractionated by dichloromethane to yield polar and nonpolar fractions (PF and NPF). The antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activities of the TEE were in vitro evaluated. The complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) arthritis model was used to explore the in vivo biological assessment of the anti‐arthritic properties in vivo of the TEE, PF, and NPF of the fruit. Additionally, the inspected limbs detached from all animals were subjected to histological inspection. Moreover, GC/MS analysis of the unsaponifiable (USF) and saponifiable (SF) fractions of the NPF was performed. Furthermore, 64 metabolites from various chemical classes were identified using UHPLC/HR‐MS/MS analysis of the TEE of the fruit in both positive and negative ionization modes. The positive ionization mode of loquat fruit allowed for the first time the detection of two kinds of lyso‐glycerophospholipids (Lyso‐GPLs): lyso‐glycerophosphoethanolamines (Lyso‐PtdEtn) and lyso‐glycerophosphocholines (Lyso‐PtdCho). The fruit extracts exhibited a notable in vivo anti‐arthritic activity by decreasing paw thickness in the treated rats and adjusting the inflammatory mediators. The TEE showed the highest anti‐arthritic activity, followed by the PF that showed an observed activity, while the NPF exhibited the lowest activity. Histopathological findings showed a marked improvement in the arthritic condition of the excised limbs. Thus, E. japonica fruit may be considered as a promising natural antioxidant and anti‐arthritic agent.
Plant‐based flaxseed oil microcapsules fabricated from coacervation of gluten at oil droplet surface: Microstructure, oxidation stability, and oil digestion control
Authors: Liu Yikun , McClements David Julian , Chen Xing , Liang Ruihong , Zou Liqiang , Liu Wei
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to develop microcapsules with wheat gluten–coated oil droplets to enhance the oxidation stability and control the digestibility of flaxseed oil. The microcapsules were fabricated using a three‐step procedure: (i) flaxseed oil was homogenized with an alkaline gluten solution to form oil‐in‐water emulsions containing small gluten‐coated oil droplets (320–400 nm); (ii) the pH of these emulsions was then neutralized to facilitate the deposition of gluten around the oil droplets, thereby forming a thick layer; (iii) a flaxseed oil microcapsule powder was then prepared by spray drying. During the microcapsule formation, intermolecular interactions, including hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonds, were involved in the coacervation of gluten at the emulsion surface. The resultant microcapsules with a multiple‐core structure had external diameters of 4–26 µm and encapsulation efficiencies of 90%–94%. The microencapsulated oil powders contained a relatively high flaxseed oil content (60%–80%). Among them, the sample with 60% oil content demonstrated the best stability in resisting oil droplet coalescence; thus, it exhibited a higher lipolysis rate and extent during simulated gastrointestinal digestion. A 30‐day accelerated storage study showed that encapsulation of the flaxseed oil improved its resistance to oxidation. These findings suggest that the pH‐deposition method can successfully produce microencapsulated polyunsaturated lipids using all plant‐derived ingredients, which may facilitate their use in new plant‐based foods through a green and sustainable approach.
Assessing the transcriptional landscape of Pseudomonas phage 201ϕ2‐1: Uncovering the small regulatory details of a giant phage
Authors: Poppeliers Jorien , Focquet Mathijs , Boon Maarten , De Mey Marjan , Thomas Julie , Lavigne Rob
Published: October 2024

The transcriptional architecture of phages can deepen our understanding of the phage‐host infection process and can be of key importance for phage engineering and biotechnological applications. Here, we applied ONT‐cappable‐sequencing, a long‐read RNA‐sequencing technique, to study the regulatory mechanisms of Pseudomonas infecting giant phage 201ϕ2‐1. We identified 67 promoters and 132 terminators that together represent 92 transcriptional units. A full comparison of these data to the transcriptome of model Pseudomonas phage ϕKZ confirmed that the transcriptional programs of these prototypes of the Serwervirus and Phikzvirus genera are largely conserved, despite some subtle regulatory differences. Evidence supporting these shared mechanisms include the identification of highly similar sequence motifs for regulatory elements in both phages and the conservation of regulatory elements loci relative to homologous genes in each phage. Moreover, we discovered a sRNA in 201ϕ2‐1 that is highly conserved among prototype members of different giant phage genera. Sequencing of the 201ϕ2‐1 host genome resulted in its reclassification as Pseudomonas atacamensis, a close relative of the important agricultural biocontrol agent Pseudomonas chlororaphis. Finally, we conducted in vivo assays of eight 201ϕ2‐1 terminators and found them to strongly terminate transcription in P. chlororaphis. Control elements from phage transcriptional programs have a rich history for applications in biotechnology. In these studies, we demonstrate new insight into the transcriptional program of 201ϕ2‐1 and demonstrate the potential of its regulatory elements for novel and useful tools for synthetic biology circuitry.
Israel: Political Developments and Data in 2023
Authors: GANEL YOSI
Published: October 2024

In 2023, Israel experienced a year marked by profound civic and security turmoil. The government's proposed judicial reform triggered widespread protests, highlighting deep divisions within the nation. Concurrently, escalating security threats emerged, with Hamas launching an unprecedented attack from the Gaza Strip and Hezbollah targeting Israel's northern border. These events led to the formation of an emergency government and a special war Cabinet. Despite the challenging circumstances, Israel's economic performance remained relatively stable until the onset of conflict, which led to negative economic impacts. The year saw significant amendments to the Israeli Basic Laws, aimed at reducing judicial oversight over government actions, which further intensified civic unrest. This article provides an overview of the political, security, and economic developments of 2023.
Expert consensus on the optimal management of BRAFV600E‐mutant metastatic colorectal cancer in the Asia‐Pacific region
Authors: Piercey Oliver , Chantrill Lorraine , Hsu Hung‐Chih , Ma Brigette , Price Timothy , Tan Iain Beehuat , Teng Hao‐Wei , Tie Jeanne , Desai Jayesh
Published: October 2024

The burden of colorectal cancer (CRC) is high in the Asia‐Pacific region, and several countries in this region have among the highest and/or fastest growing rates of CRC in the world. A significant proportion of patients will present with or develop metastatic CRC (mCRC), and BRAFV600E‐mutant mCRC represents a particularly aggressive phenotype that is less responsive to standard chemotherapies. In light of recent therapeutic advances, an Asia‐Pacific expert consensus panel was convened to develop evidence‐based recommendations for the diagnosis, treatment, and management of patients with BRAFV600E‐mutant mCRC. The expert panel comprised nine medical oncologists from Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Taiwan (the authors), who met to review current literature and develop eight consensus statements that describe the optimal management of BRAFV600E‐mutant mCRC in the Asia‐Pacific region. As agreed by the expert panel, the consensus statements recommend molecular testing at diagnosis to guide individualized treatment decisions, propose optimal treatment pathways according to microsatellite stability status, advocate for more frequent monitoring of BRAFV600E‐mutant mCRC, and discuss local treatment strategies for oligometastatic disease. Together, these expert consensus statements are intended to optimize treatment and improve outcomes for patients with BRAFV600E‐mutant mCRC in the Asia‐Pacific region.
Autoimmune Condition Diagnosis Following Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Authors: Imbroane Marisa R. , LeMoine Felicia , Gibson Kelly S.
Published: October 2024

Problem

Research has suggested a link between recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) and cell‐mediated immunity dysregulation. We aimed to determine if a history of RPL is associated with diagnosis of a cell‐mediated autoimmune condition (AIC).

Method of Study

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using the TriNetX research network. The RPL group had ≥3 spontaneous or missed abortions. Controls had at least one pregnancy but no diagnosis of RPL. Propensity score matching was used for age, race, and ethnicity. Z‐test and relative risk analysis investigated the relationship between RPL and subsequent AIC diagnoses.

Results

One hundred twenty‐eight thousand three hundred seventy‐six patients were included in each cohort. RPL was associated with an increased risk for an AIC composite (RR 1.60, 95% CI [1.51, 1.69]), Crohn's disease, Graves’ disease, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren's syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus, and ulcerative colitis, but not psoriatic arthritis.

Conclusions

Using a large research database of patients with RPL, we were able to demonstrate that an antecedent diagnosis of RPL is associated with increased risk of subsequent diagnosis of an AIC, often between 1 and 10 years after RPL.