bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A narrative review of lifestyle management guidelines for metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease
Authors: Ivancovsky Wajcman Dana , Byrne Christopher J. , Dillon John F. , Brennan Paul N. , Villota-Rivas Marcela , Younossi Zobair M. , Allen Alina M. , Crespo Javier , Gerber Lynn H. , Lazarus Jeffrey V.
Published: August 2024

Background and Aims:

Metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease management guidelines have been published worldwide; we aimed to summarize, categorize, and compare their lifestyle intervention recommendations.

Approach and Results:

We searched metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease/NAFLD management guidelines published between January 1, 2013, and June 31, 2024, through databases including PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane, and CINAHL. In total, 35 qualifying guidelines were included in the final analysis. Guideline recommendations were categorized into 5 domains (ie, weight reduction goals, physical activity, nutrition, alcohol, and tobacco smoking) and were ranked based on how frequently they appeared. A recommendation was defined as widely adopted if recommended in ≥24 (≥66.6%) of the guidelines. These included increasing physical activity; reducing body weight by 7%–10% to improve steatohepatitis and/or fibrosis; restricting caloric intake; undertaking 150–300 or 75–150 minutes/week of moderate or vigorous-intensity physical activity, respectively; and decreasing consumption of commercially produced fructose. The least mentioned topics, in ≤9 of the guidelines, evaluated environmental determinants of health, mental health, referring patients for psychological or cognitive behavioral therapy, using digital health interventions, and assessing patients’ social determinants of health.

Conclusions:

Most guidelines recommend weight reduction through physical activity and improving nutrition, as these have proven positive effects on health outcomes when sustained. However, gaps regarding mental health and the social and environmental determinants of metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease were found. To optimize behavioral modifications and treatment, we recommend carrying out studies that will provide further evidence on social support, environmental factors, and mental health, as well as further exploring digital health interventions.
Impact of as Needed Heparin Boluses on Supratherapeutic Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time in Patients Managed With Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Corcoran Delaney M. , Kovacevic Mary P. , Dell’Orfano Heather , Sylvester Katelyn W. , Connors Jean M.
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

Brigham and Women’s Hospital historically used titratable weight-based heparin nomograms with as needed boluses managed by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation specialists to achieve a predetermined goal-activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). Due to concern amongst providers that as needed boluses may lead to supratherapeutic aPTT’s and subsequent bleeding, new nomograms without as needed boluses were implemented. The purpose of this retrospective observational analysis is to provide a comparison in safety and efficacy between the heparin nomograms with as needed boluses and the new nomograms without boluses.

Methods:

Adult patients who were cannulated on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and initiated on an approved heparin bolus nomogram (January 1, 2018–December 31, 2019) or an approved heparin no-bolus nomogram (October 20, 2020–March 31, 2021) were screened for inclusion. The major endpoint evaluated was the percentage of supratherapeutic aPTTs, defined as an aPTT above the upper limit of the specified nomogram goal, within the first 72 hours.

Results:

A total of 23 patients were included in the bolus nomogram cohort and 9 patients in the no-bolus nomogram cohort. Within the first 72 hours of initiation, there were 11.5% supratherapeutic aPTTs in the bolus group and 5.1% in the no-bolus group (P = 0.101). Overall there was 1 bleeding event in the no-bolus group (11.1%) and 7 in the bolus group (30.4%) (P = 0.26). There were no thromboembolic events in either group.

Conclusions:

Overall, there was no difference found in the percentage of supratherapeutic aPTTs within the first 72 hours of heparin initiation between the bolus and no-bolus nomograms.
Central retinal artery and Common Carotid artery occlusions following COVID-19 infection: A case report
Authors: Eldakkak Mohamed , Kalogeropoulos Dimitrios , Lotery Andrew J
Published: August 2024

Purpose:

To report a case of central retinal artery and common carotid artery occlusions following COVID-19 infection in a young female with no other risk factors.

Methods:

Retrospective analysis of the medical notes of a patient hospitalized with COVID 19 infection at University Hospital Southampton.

Results:

The patient was found to have dural venous sinus thrombosis and an acute infarct within the right parietal lobe. There was an occlusive thrombus within the right common carotid artery. Subsequently she was found to have a right central artery occlusion secondary to the right common carotid artery occlusion.

Conclusion:

COVID-19 infection can cause retinal artery occlusion via systemic thrombosis in previously healthy patients.
Emotional memory bias in adolescents with chronic pain: examining the relationship with neural, stress, and psychological factors
Authors: Biggs Emma E. , Timmers Inge , Heathcote Lauren C. , Tremblay-McGaw Alexandra G. , Noel Melanie , Borsook David , Simons Laura E.
Published: August 2024

Memory biases for pain-related information may contribute to the development and maintenance of chronic pain; however, evidence for when (and for whom) these biases occur is mixed. Therefore, we examined neural, stress, and psychological factors that could influence memory bias, focusing on memories that motivate disabling behaviors: pain perception, conditioned responses to threat-and-safety cues, and responses to aversive nonnoxious stimuli. Two studies were conducted with adolescents with and without chronic pain. Data from 58 participants were included in study 1 (chronic pain n = 34, pain free n = 24, mean age = 16 years), and 39 participants were included in study 2 (chronic pain n = 26, pain free n = 13, mean age = 16 years). Both studies used a threat–safety learning paradigm with memory recall (≈1 month later). Participants completed structural and functional (resting-state) magnetic resonance imaging, salivary cortisol measurements, and self-report measures. Adolescents with pain and pain-free peers consistently recalled being more afraid of safety cues (CS−) and, during heightened stress at encoding (higher cortisol levels), also reported being more afraid of threat cues (CS+). However, no memory bias was present for the emotional response to an aversive stimulus (US; loud scream) or for the recall of pain intensity. Functional connectivity of the amygdala and hippocampus with memory circuits related to the degree of memory bias, but the specific connections varied between the studies, and we observed no relationship between memory bias and brain morphology. Our findings highlight the value of considering the interaction between implicit and explicit memory systems, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of emotional memory biases in the context of chronic pain.
Future of U.S. living donor liver transplant: Donor and recipient criteria, transplant indications, transplant oncology, liver paired exchange, and non-directed donor graft allocation
Authors: Bambha Kiran , Biggins Scott W. , Hughes Christopher , Humar Abhi , Ganesh Swaytha , Sturdevant Mark
Published: August 2024

In the United States, living donor liver transplant (LDLT), from both directed and nondirected living donors, has expanded over the past several years. LDLT is viewed as an important opportunity to expand the overall donor pool for liver transplantation (LT), shorten waiting times for a life-prolonging LT surgery, and reduce LT waitlist mortality. The LT community’s focus on LDLT expansion in the United States is fostering discussions around future opportunities, which include the safe expansion of donor and recipient candidate eligibility criteria, broadening indications for LDLT including applications in transplant oncology, developing national initiatives around liver paired exchange, and maintaining vigilance to living donor and recipient candidate risk/benefit equipoise. Potential opportunities for expanding living liver donor and recipient candidate criteria include using donors with more than minimal hepatic steatosis, evaluating older donors, performing LDLT in older recipients to facilitate timely transplantation, and providing candidates who would benefit from an LT, but may otherwise have limited access (ie, lower MELD scores), an avenue to receive a life-prolonging organ. Expansion opportunities for LDLT are particularly robust in the transplant oncology realm, including leveraging LDLT for patients with advanced HCC beyond Milan, intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, and nonresectable colorectal cancer liver metastases. With ongoing investment in the deliberate growth of LDLT surgical expertise, experience, and technical advances in the United States, the LT community’s future vision to increase transplant access to more patients with end-stage liver disease and selected oncology patients may be successfully realized.
Acantholytic Dyskeratoses of the Vulva: Clinicopathologic Characterization of 16 Cases and Review of the Literature
Authors: Wang Maxwell D. , Bresler Scott C. , Chan May P. , Patel Rajiv M. , Chapel David B.
Published: August 2024

The vulva and perineum are rarely involved by acantholytic dyskeratoses, including Hailey-Hailey disease, Darier disease, papular acantholytic dyskeratosis of the genitocrural area, acantholytic dyskeratotic acanthoma, and warty dyskeratoma. These entities show broad histomorphologic overlap, generally requiring clinical correlation for definitive classification. This institutional series aims to better characterize vulvar acantholytic dyskeratoses and provide a practical literature review and diagnostic aid for gynecologic pathologists. Our institutional archives contained 16 vulvar acantholytic dyskeratoses diagnosed between 1990 and 2023. Affected patients were 36 to 79 (mean, 58) years old and presented with one or more asymptomatic (n = 9) or pruritic (n = 6) lesions involving the vulva (predominantly the labia majora), with additional perineal involvement in 2. Four patients have known Hailey-Hailey disease. Eleven cases comprised singular, raised, erythematous, or skin-colored papules, measuring 0.2 to 0.6 (mean, 0.3) cm. Two patients had oligofocal (both with known Hailey-Hailey disease) vulvar lesions, and 2 had multifocal vulvar lesions (one with known Hailey-Hailey disease). Histologically, all showed acantholysis and dyskeratoses (abundant in 8, focal in 8, with corps ronds generally more conspicuous than corps grains). Additional features included suprabasal clefting (n = 14), dermal papillomatosis (n = 12), and acanthosis (n = 8). Adnexal involvement was rare (n = 1). No histologic features reliably distinguished sporadic versus syndromic acantholytic dyskeratoses. Sporadic lesions were cured by local excision. Patients with Hailey-Hailey disease were variably responsive to corticosteroids. Neither our series nor the literature indicate a significant correlation between sporadic or syndromic acantholytic dyskeratosis and squamous cell carcinoma. Important differential diagnoses include pemphigus vulgaris and pemphigus vegetans, for which direct immunofluorescence may be performed, when indicated.
Factor Structure and Internal Consistency of the National Alzheimer Coordinating Center’s Uniform Data Set Version 3 Neuropsychological Test Battery (UDSNB 3.0)
Authors: Ucheagwu Valentine , Odilora Chiamaka , Ugokwe-Joseph Rita , Giordani Bruno
Published: August 2024

Background:

Construct validation of cognitive batteries across Africa is imperative to understanding dementia in the region. We examined construct validity and internal consistency of the neuropsychological battery of Uniform Data Set version 3 (UDSNB 3.0) of the Alzheimer Coordinating Center in Nigeria older adults.

Method:

Three hundred forty-nine (220 females; age: 65 to 85) community dwellers were recruited. UDSNB 3.0 with 12 subscales were used to measure cognition. Two sets of data were collected. First was for exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and second was confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Four models were specified for CFA.

Result:

EFA principal axis factor with varimax rotation yielded 4 factors: Executive function, memory, visual-spatial ability, and processing speed. Four CFA were performed based on 4 specified models, with only model 3 showing good model fit: CMIN/DF=2.13; confirmatory fit index=0.94; root mean square error of approximation=0.07. Model 3 had 5 latent variables: working memory, language, verbal memory, visual-spatial ability, and processing speed. UDSNB 3.0 had an overall Cronbach alpha of 0.73, suggesting strong internal reliability with ANOVA model F
134,1619​​​=183.65 significant at P<0.001 level of testing.

Conclusions:

Our study showed that UDSNB 3.0 has construct validity and good internal consistency in our older adult population.
Field-evolved resistance to neonicotinoids in the mosquito, Anopheles gambiae, is associated with downregulation and mutations of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subunits combined with cytochrome P450-mediated detoxification
Authors: Fouet Caroline , Pinch Mathew J , Ashu Fred A , Ambadiang Marilene M , Bouaka Calmes , Bathronie Anthoni J , Hernandez Cesar A , Rios Desiree E , Penlap-Beng Veronique , Kamdem Colince
Published: August 2024

Neonicotinoid insecticides act selectively on their nicotinic receptor targets leading to variable sensitivity among arthropods. This study aimed to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying contrasting susceptibility to neonicotinoids observed in wild populations of two mosquito sibling species. Bioassays and a synergism test revealed that the sister taxa, Anopheles gambiae and An. coluzzii, from Yaounde, Cameroon, rely on cytochrome P450s to detoxify neonicotinoids and develop resistance. However, contrary to An. coluzzii, An. gambiae populations are evolving stronger resistance to several active ingredients facilitated by mutations and reduced expression of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. Six mutations were detected in coding sequences of the β1 and α6 subunits, including two substitutions in one of the loops that modulate ligand binding and sensitivity. Allele frequencies were strongly correlated with a susceptibility gradient between An. coluzzii and An. gambiae suggesting that the mutations may play a key role in sensitivity. Messenger RNA expression levels of the β1, α3, and α7 subunits decreased dramatically, on average by 23.27, 17.50, 15.80-fold, respectively, in wild An. gambiae populations compared to a susceptible insectary colony. By contrast, only the β2 and α9-1 subunits were moderately downregulated (5.28 and 2.67-fold change, respectively) in field-collected An. coluzzii adults relative to susceptible colonized mosquitoes. Our findings provide critical information for the application and resistance management of neonicotinoids in malaria prevention.
The neural mechanisms of fast versus slow decision-making
Authors: Nashaat Mostafa , Oraby Hatem , Krasniqi Flutra , Goh-Sauerbier Sek Teng , Bosc Marion , Koerner Sandra , Karayel Sedef , Kepecs Adam , Larkum Matthew E.
Published: August 2024

Not all decisions are created equal; factors such as the difficulties or associated costs affect the time spent to make decisions. This is variously interpreted as speed/accuracy, fast/slow, or impulsivity/deliberateness tradeoffs according to different models of behaviour1–5. Regardless, it is generally assumed that decision latency reflects the neural mechanisms underlying behavioural strategy and cognitive investment. However, such investigations have been difficult in mice which are consistently impulsive. Here, we show that manipulating cost, using a novel floating-platform paradigm, overcomes the natural impulsivity of mice, more closely matching human behaviour. Furthermore, this approach allowed us simultaneously to measure the flow of activity from medial to lateral frontal cortex (MFC→LFC) and record sequences of single neuron activity with 2-photon imaging. Surprisingly, MFC display a different mode of operation, with high vulnerability to optical inhibition compared to LFC. Furthermore, the balance in choice coding at the beginning of sequences in MFC correlated with trial history and behavioural strategy. We found that for optimal performance, slow sequences in MFC showed declining numbers of active neurons whereas the opposite was true in LFC. Our results suggest that while LFC acts as an integrative motor threshold, MFC plays a larger cognitive role in the selection and timing of decisions than previously thought. Our study offers a methodological and mechanistic framework in mouse frontal cortex to understand the neural basis of voluntary decision making.
The RNA binding protein Pub1 inhibits TORC1 activity in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Orozco Helena , Matallana Emilia , Molin Mikael , Aranda Agustin
Published: August 2024

Pub1 is an RNA binding protein with multiple functions in gene expression, including the control of translation and mRNA stability. It also acts as a prion-like protein given its ability to self-aggregate, and it plays a role in the formation of mRNA-protein assemblies such as stress granules. This study identifies an unexpected relationship between Pub1 and the nutrient signalling complex TORC1. Whereas Pub1-deficiency increased cellular resistance to TORC1 inhibition by rapamycin, PUB1 overexpression impaired growth, particularly when nutrients were scarce. This growth defect was suppressed by TOR1 kinase deletion, which indicates that Pub1 functions are channelled through the TORC1 complex. Moreover, Pub1 antagonised TORC1-regulated processes, such as autophagy and the phosphorylation of ribosomal protein Rps6. We found that Pub1 was required for the aggregation of Kog1, a component of the TORC1 complex upon starvation, whereas its overexpression caused Kog1 foci formation in non-stressed growing cells. All these results suggest a negative role of Pub1 in regulating TORC1 activity based on its ability to promote the formation of TORC1-ribonucleoprotein aggregates.
Orally surface engineered probiotic system for ulcerative colitis therapy via modulating gut microbiota and immune homeostasis
Authors: Liu Junyu , Fang Zhihao , Zhang Xiaopeng , Chen Yun , Kou Fujia , Li Xiaobin , Huang Long , Yang Huanxian , Zheng Yilin , Huang Yuqing , Wang Yi , Qiu Xueqing , Ge Jun , Qian Yong , Xing Xin-Hui , Zhang Can Yang
Published: August 2024

Oral probiotics have emerged as a promising therapeutical strategy for effectively managing ulcerative colitis (UC) in the world. The existing researches successfully preserve probiotic viability in the upper gastrointestinal tract, but they fall short in achieving precise release profile and effective colonization of probiotics at the site of colitis in colon as well as the understanding of therapeutic mechanism with suboptimal efficacy. This constraint poses a significant barrier to rational design and effective development of oral probiotic system. Here, we fabricate an orally layered-by-layered probiotic (Escherichia coli Nissle 1917, EcN) system (so-called CML@EcN) based on carboxymethyl modified lignin (CML) which can significantly protect EcN in gastric and small intestinal microenvironment and efficiently control release EcN in colon. Interestingly, the release and proliferation process of EcN in the colon are detected and can be modeled as a plug-flow mode. We derive a mathematical expression that highly matches the experimental results, providing a theoretical basis for quantitatively calculation of the release process. Furthermore, CML@EcN significantly alleviates symptoms in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC mice by modulating the multiple organ immune disorder and gut microbiota (GM)/metabolites profile as well as reconstructing the colon barrier. Importantly, we explore the mechanism of immune homeostasis regulation via metabolism from GM. Moreover, the CML armour is excreted and would not influence the process. This work not only reports a novel oral therapeutic for UC treatment with high efficacy as well as the exploration of mechanism between GM and immune homeostasis, but also provides a general approach to engineer probiotics for oral administration.
Multiplexed Glycan Immunofluorescence Identification of Pancreatic Cancer Cell Subpopulations in Both Tumor and Blood Samples
Authors: Binkowski Braelyn , Klamer Zachary , Gao ChongFeng , Staal Ben , Repesh Anna , Tran Hoang-Le , Brass David M. , Bartlett Pamela , Gallinger Steven , Blomqvist Maria , Morrow J. Bradley , Allen Peter , Shi Chanjuan , Singhi Aatur , Brand Randall , Huang Ying , Hostetter Galen , Haab Brian B.
Published: August 2024

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) tumor heterogeneity impedes the development of biomarker assays suitable for early disease detection that would improve patient outcomes. The CA19-9 glycan is currently used as a standalone biomarker for PDAC. Furthermore, previous studies have shown that cancer cells may display aberrant membrane-associated glycans. We therefore hypothesized that PDAC cancer cell subpopulations could be distinguished by aberrant glycan signatures. We used multiplexed glycan immunofluorescence combined with pathologist annotation and automated image processing to distinguish between PDAC cancer cell subpopulations within tumor tissue. Using a training-set/test-set approach, we found that PDAC cancer cells may be identified by signatures comprising 4 aberrant glycans (VVL, CA19-9, sTRA, and GM2) and that there are three glycan-defined PDAC tumor types: sTRA type, CA19-9 type, and intermixed. To determine whether the aberrant glycan signatures could be detected in blood samples, we developed hybrid glycan sandwich assays for membrane-associated glycans. In both patient-matched tumor and blood samples, the proportion of aberrant glycans detected was consistent. Furthermore, our multiplexed glycan immunofluorescent approach proved to be more sensitive and more specific than CA19-9 alone. Our results provide proof of concept for a novel methodology to improve early PDAC detection and patient outcomes.
Competition enables rapid adaptation to a warming range edge
Authors: Usui Takuji , Angert Amy
Published: August 2024

Most predictions of how climate warming will affect species ranges ignore species interactions. We tested experimentally if range-edge populations can adapt to warming within competitive communities. Using a model plant species, we found that adaptation to warming range edges was possible only when populations evolved with interspecific competitors. Moreover, competitors enabled the evolution of both high-temperature tolerance (CTmax) and increased thermal performance breadth at the range edge. Yet, competitors limited adaptation at the range core and had no detectable effects on population growth rates at the range edge, suggesting that responses to competition and warming can be cryptic. Our results highlight the urgency of including community context in predicting future range shifts, showing that antagonistic interactions do not necessarily hinder adaptation to climate deterioration.
Contribution of brain intrinsic branched-chain amino acid metabolism in a novel mouse model of maple syrup urine disease
Authors: Kuhs Amanda C. , Ohl Laura , Thurston Tegan , Singh Jeet , Bhuyan Sangeetha , Grandinette Sarah , Xu Jing , Siemsgluess Sophie A , Jakher Youseff , Ahrens-Nicklas Rebecca C.
Published: August 2024

Maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) results from loss of branched-chain ketoacid dehydrogenase (BCKDH) activity, the committed, rate-limiting step of branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) oxidation. Current treatments, including a low protein diet and liver transplantation, improve peripheral biochemistry and limit episodes of metabolic decompensation but do not fully prevent chronic neuropsychiatric symptoms. The mechanisms underlying chronic neurologic phenotypes remain poorly understood. Currently available MSUD mouse models do not survive long enough to evaluate chronic central nervous system (CNS) pathology. To investigate if loss of brain-intrinsic BCAA metabolism contributes to chronic neurologic disease, we developed a new brain-specific knockout mouse model of MSUD. First, we generated a mouse harboring a floxedDbtallele (Dbtflox/flox). Then we crossed this line with Cre recombinase driver lines to induce loss ofDbtexpression in 1) all developing CNS cell populations 2) neurons alone or 3) astrocytes alone. We found that brain-specific KO mice have elevations in BCAA levels in cortex that are exacerbated by a high protein diet. They also have secondary changes in amino acids that are important for neuronal function, including glutamine and glycine. These metabolic differences result in subtle functional deficits as measured by electroencephalogram and behavioral testing. Astrocyte and neuron-specific KO mice each also demonstrate mild biochemical features of MSUD in the cortex, suggesting that both cell populations may contribute to disease pathology. Collectively, these data suggest that therapies targeting the CNS directly, in addition to the periphery, may improve outcomes in MSUD.
Personalized learning in education: a machine learning and simulation approach
Authors: Taylor Ross , Fakhimi Masoud , Ioannou Athina , Spanaki Konstantina
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study proposes an integrated Machine Learning and simulated framework for a personalized learning system. This framework aims to improve the integrity of the provided tasks, adapt to each student individually and ultimately enhance students' academic performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This methodology comprises two components. (1) A simulation-based system that utilizes reinforcement algorithms to assign additional questions to students who do not reach pass grade thresholds. (2) A Machine Learning system that uses the data from the system to identify the drivers of passing or failing and predict the likelihood of each student passing or failing based on their engagement with the simulated system.

Findings

The results of this study offer preliminary evidence of the effectiveness of the proposed simulation system and indicate that such a system has the potential to foster improvements in learning outcomes.

Research limitations/implications

As with all empirical studies, this research has limitations. A simulation study is an abstraction of reality and may not be completely accurate. Student performance in real-world environments may be higher than estimated in this simulation, reducing the required teacher support.

Practical implications

The developed personalized learning (PL) system demonstrates a strong foundation for improving students' performance, particularly within a blended learning context. The findings indicate that simulated performance using the system exhibited improvement when individual students experienced higher learning benefits tailored to their needs.

Social implications

The research offers evidence of the effectiveness of personalized learning systems and highlights their capacity to drive improvements in education. The proposed system holds the potential to enhance learning outcomes by tailoring tasks to meet the unique needs of each student.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the growing literature on personalized learning, emphasizing the importance of leveraging machine learning in educational technologies to enable precise predictions of student performance.
The impact of trust and risk perception on contractors' bid/no-bid decision-making in China – a multiple mediation model
Authors: Wang Chunmei , Zhang Sujuan
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The sustainable development of contractor organizations depends highly on bidding decision-making of projects. This current study, leveraging the risk decision-making theory, attempts to elucidate the process of contractors’ bid/no-bid decision-making and reveal how the process is influenced by their perception of risk. In particular, this study aims to explore the multiple mediating effects of contractors’ trust in owners and risk perception in explaining the relationship between contractual governance outlined in owners’ bidding documents and the bid/no-bid decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire survey was used to obtain data from the Chinese construction industry. The PLS-SEM technique was employed to analyze a dataset of 557 available questionnaires.

Findings

The findings indicate that (1) the contractual governance provided by owners’ bidding documents positively impacts contractors’ bid/no-bid decisions; (2) both risk perception and trust serve as multiple mediators in this relationship and (3) trust mediates the relationship between contractual governance and contractors’ risk perception.

Originality/value

Drawing upon the risk decision-making theory, this study proposes a multiple mediation model for understanding contractors’ bid/no-bid decision-making processes. It contributes to a better understanding of contractors’ bidding decision-making mechanisms, thereby offering theoretical guidance for contractors to make reasonable and informed risk decisions.
Assessment of interfacial mortar-mortar bond and pure shear strength of metakaolin-based geopolymer
Authors: Hachem Amira A.K. , Khatib Jamal M. , Ezzedine El Dandachy Mohamad
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the bond strength of metakaolin-based geopolymer mortar with cement mortar.

Design/methodology/approach

The mortar-mortar bond strength is assessed by slant shear and split tensile tests; pure shear strength is evaluated by Mohr’s criterion for result validation. Metakaolin-based geopolymer mortar is cast over the cured cement mortar specimen with two levels of surface roughness: smooth or grooved interface. The influence of the alkaline solution to metakaolin ratio on geopolymer bond strength is studied. Compressive strength, ultrasonic pulse velocity, permeability and flow table tests are also performed.

Findings

The paper’s findings are highlighted as follows: (1) strong mortar-mortar bond properties achieved for geopolymer mortar in all tests and conditions and validated by Mohr’s criterion and pure shear, (2) a lower alkaline solution to metakaolin ratio achieves higher bond strength to Portland cement mortar and (3) geopolymer mortar has higher compressive strength and ultrasonic pulse velocity than cement mortar at all curing ages; additionally, it is more flowable and less permeable.

Practical implications

The full replacement of Portland cement with metakaolin, a more sustainable cementitious material, will contribute to the decarbonization of the construction industry.

Originality/value

Limited research has been carried out on the bond strength of metakaolin-based geopolymer mortar to Portland cement mortar. Also, computing the pure shear using Mohr’s circle criterion of metakaolin-based geopolymer to validate the results can be considered original.
“I am because we are”: novice teacher mentoring support needs from an Ubuntu perspective
Authors: Kotze Christy Jean
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Scholars have been sounding the alarm of novice teacher turnover crises for decades. South Africa is soon to be facing an educational catastrophe because of a shortage of experienced teachers. Globally and in South Africa, novice teacher attrition is high, and teachers entering the classroom often described feeling isolated and unsupported.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative study was underpinned by an interpretative phenomenology approach. The author reviewed the literature and newly emerged findings of novice teacher mentoring support needs through the theoretical lens of the Ubuntu philosophy “I am because we are” which emphasises the importance of interconnectedness and community. Using semi-structured interviews, this study aimed to explore novice teacher mentoring needs from an Ubuntu perspective.

Findings

Novice teachers report feeling overwhelmed with the complexities of teaching in their early careers and express the desire to be formally mentored by a knowledgeable “elder” teacher. This paper argues that a competent mentor who values Ubuntu in their mentoring could offer collaboration, respect, compassion and support to novices that may keep them in the profession. This paper further explores the potential benefit of a prescribed Ubuntu-orientated mentoring programme to formalise mentoring for novices. In addition, it explores the school micro-community from the Ubuntu principles to support novices.

Originality/value

While there is a plethora of studies about mentoring novice teachers, literature from an Africanised Ubuntu perspective is scarce. Perhaps the time has come to find African solutions to our African problems.
Application of tàawun (mutual assistance) in cross-subsidisation of surplus among different takaful operators: an exploratory study in Malaysia
Authors: Rahman Md. Habibur , Abdullah Md. Faruk , Osmani Noor Mohammad , Binti Aziz Nur Suhailah Zakiyyah
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the possibility of practicing cross-subsidisation of underwriting surplus among different takaful operators. It responds to the recent discussion paper published by Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) on broader application of tàawun (mutual assistance), which seeks insights into cross-tàawun of underwriting surplus within takaful industry.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative, semi-structured interview is used to gather primary data, featuring 13 one-to-one interviews with selected Sharìah and operational experts in takaful. Open-ended questions are drafted according to BNM’s discussion paper to guide the interview. A content analysis method is used to delve into the topic based on scholarly papers, books and regulatory guidelines. A thematic analysis is applied to explore the qualitative data.

Findings

This study establishes the feasibility of cross-subsidisation of underwriting surplus in takaful. Given that participants are the rightful owners of the underwriting surplus, cross-tàawun is deemed permissible with participants’ consent. With the view that underwriting surplus belongs to the fund due to outright transfer of contributions by participants, the regulators have discretion to permit cross-tàawun. The authorities can make any decision if it serves the public interest. Furthermore, the study provides Sharìah and regulatory requirements to govern the practice of cross-tàawun in takaful. Respondents of the study advocate for policy reviews and regulatory adjustments to facilitate cross-subsidisation of takaful surplus.

Practical implications

This study significantly contributes to the existing body of knowledge in Islamic insurance studies. It offers valuable insights for the regulators to formulate the required policies and guides takaful operators to develop products accordingly. Moreover, the study supports Sharìah scholars in making informed decisions about cross-tàawun practices.

Originality/value

This study fills a critical gap in the existing literature by being the first to examine cross-subsidisation of underwriting surplus in takaful. The proposed cross-subsidisation of underwriting surplus will enhance sustainability of takaful funds and contribute to stability of takaful industry. As a foundation, this study encourages future research to explore other relevant aspects of cross-subsidisation of underwriting surplus in takaful operation.
The effect of blockability affordance on confrontation against cyberbullying on social networking sites: theoretical and methodological implications
Authors: Kwak Dong-Heon , Kim Dongyeon , Lee Saerom , Kang Martin , Park Soomin , Knapp Deborah
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Social networking sites (SNS) have become popular mediums for individuals to interact with others. However, despite the positive impact of SNS on people’s lives, cyberbullying has become prevalent. Due to this prevalence, substantial research has examined cyberbullying from the perspectives of perpetrators, bystanders, and victims, but little is known about SNS users’ confrontations with cyberbullying. The objectives of this study are to examine confrontation as a victim’s coping response, the effect of blockability affordance on victims’ protection motivation, the impact of a victim’s experiences with cyberbullying perpetration, and social desirability (SD) bias in the context of cyberbullying victimization.

Design/methodology/approach

This study examines the effect of blockability affordance on SNS users’ protection motivation. It also investigates the relationships among perceived threat, perceived coping efficacy, and use of confrontation. Furthermore, this investigation analyzes the effect of SNS users’ experiences as perpetrators on their decision to confront cyberbullies. Finally, this study assesses and controls SD bias in SNS users’ confrontation behavior. To test the research model, we used an online vignette study to collect 314 data points.

Findings

Blockability affordance, perceived threat, perceived coping efficacy, and cyberbullying perpetration experiences are essential factors in explaining use of confrontation. This study also finds SD bias in the context of cyberbullying victimization.

Originality/value

This is one of the first studies in information systems research to empirically examine the effect of blockability affordance in the context of cyberbullying.
Dow Jones sustainability Mila Pacific Alliance index and financial performance of Latin America integrated market
Authors: Díaz-Becerra Óscar , Castañeda-Moreano Rosa , Rodríguez-Cairo Vladimir
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to determine the association between the companies’ financial indicators and the Dow Jones Sustainability MILA Pacific Alliance Index (DJSMPAUP Index).

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted a quantitative, explanatory level approach, based on measuring the interactions between the financial performance ratios of these companies (return on assets, return on equity, EBITDA margin and net margin) and sustainability index of MILA member countries. The study used a non-experimental, retrospective, cross-sectional design, using observed data from the annual period spanning 2017 to 2022 for MILA companies and includes analyses before and after COVID-19.

Findings

The estimates show a positive and statistically significant relationship between each company’s financial indicator and the DJSMPAUP index for the period 2017 to 2022.

Research limitations/implications

The primary limitation of the study was the availability of data, which restricted the use of more advanced statistical analyses, and the inclusion of many factors that can be associated with DJSMPAUP. This constraint arose since the index was introduced only from the 2017 annual period, resulting in a limited dataset.

Practical implications

The study sheds light on MILA’s companies and their characteristics and specific conditions, which can help to improve sustainability strategies with an impact on financial performance, primarily due to the significance of MILA in the world economy and the GDP of Latin America. It focuses on an emerging market with a few years of applying sustainability policies.

Social implications

This study contributes to revealing the progress in sustainability for member companies in MILA.

Originality/value

The study connects the financial performance and the sustainability of organizations oriented to the emerging significance of MILA in the world economy.
How is employee performance affected by employer branding in tourism businesses? Mediation analysis
Authors: Al-Romeedy Bassam Samir , El-bardan Mohamed Fawzy , Badwy Hanan Eid
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The study’s objective is to assess the impact of employer branding (EB) on person–job fit (PJF), work engagement (WE), internal communication (IC) and employee performance (EP) in tourism businesses. In addition, the study evaluated the mediating roles of PJF, WE and IC between EB and EP.

Design/methodology/approach

To gather data, the questionnaire was distributed to 1,024 employees in travel agencies and 746 questionnaires valid for statistical analysis were received.

Findings

The findings indicated the positive influence of EB on PJF, WE, IC and EP. These findings also revealed the positive effects of PJF, WE and IC on EP. The partial mediating functions of PJF, WE and IC in the nexus between EB and EP, and the mediating function of PJF in the nexus between EB and WE are highlighted.

Practical implications

General managers should invest in creating a strong EB that highlights the organization's core values, culture and unique features, such as personal development opportunities and a supportive environment.

Originality/value

This study presents and empirically examines an innovative theoretical model that thoroughly evaluates the effects EB, PJF, WE and IC on EP in the lens of Social Exchange Theory (SET).
Exploring the drivers of residents’ identification and green citizenship behavior in green cities: a multicountry study
Authors: Raji Ridwan Adetunji , Mohamad Bahtiar , Memon Sumera
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The fundamental mission of every green city is to harmonize urban living with environmental preservation. However, a critical challenge arises when the residents of such cities do not share the same level of environmental consciousness, potentially eroding the integrity of the green city’s brand identity. Hence, this study aims to explore the factors influencing residents’ identification with green city branding and assesses how this identification subsequently affects their green citizenship behaviors.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey of 1,217 residents from 15 green cities across six countries was conducted and analyzed using SPSS 28.0 for descriptive statistics and PLS-SEM for measurement and structural model analysis.

Findings

The results indicate that green city-self connection, green city distinctiveness and environmental benefits significantly impact GCRI, which, in turn, significantly influences green city protection, loyalty and advocacy behaviors. However, green city social and economic benefits did not affect resident identification.

Practical implications

The results of this study provide valuable managerial insights for city brand managers, green city developers and governmental representatives. The study underscores the importance of considering residents as crucial internal stakeholders in the creation of a green city identity that effectively promotes sustainable urban living and an eco-friendly culture.

Originality/value

This study provides theoretical insights into the relationship between green identification and residents’ willingness and commitment to act as ambassadors and promote their city’s green values.
Open strategy and the multinational firm
Authors: Stadler Christian , Hautz Julia , Ortner Thomas
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Distance has been a core concept and issue in international business and management research. While scholars argue that distance through internationalization is increasing costs, distance is also associated with positive implications such as the integration of more diverse knowledge. Still, many firms struggle to manage distance effectively and efficiently in their multinational contexts. The purpose of this study therefore is to propose Open Strategy – increasing transparency and inclusion in the strategy process – as an attractive concept for managing distance.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a conceptual paper where the authors introduce Open Strategy to the IB community.

Findings

The authors argue that opening the strategy of multinational enterprises, enables firms to leverage diversity by re-combining the firms diverse and distant knowledge. It also reduces distance by moving beyond formal mechanisms of control and coordination to improve joint understanding, cooperative commitment and strategy implementation. The framework shows how firms can move beyond established dogmas in international business research by rendering their strategy processes more open.

Originality/value

Leveraging the Open Strategy literature, the authors are able to find a way to respond to the challenge of increasing distance, in fact even arguing that distance can be beneficial if framed as diversity.
Experimental evidence for the efficacy of generative AI in improving students’ writing skills
Authors: Ironsi Chinaza Solomon , Solomon Ironsi Sarah
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Given continued debates on the potentials of newly emerging artificial intelligence (AI) like generative AI (GenAI), this study aims to contribute to corporal studies by investigating the efficacy of GenAI in improving students writing skills.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed-methods research design with an experimental approach was used to elicit information from 70 undergraduate students studying at a private university. A writing course was designed and used to elicit information from the participants on the efficacy of using ChatGPT in their writing instruction.

Findings

After collecting data through experiments and interviews, the result indicates that although ChatGPT may assist students in providing ideas in writing lessons, it may not improve their overall writing skills.

Originality/value

This study provides empirical evidence limited to the scholarly literature on the role of ChatGPT in improving students’ writing skills. This study adds to scholarly discussions on the potential of ChatGPT which has recently sparked debates in academia.
Discretion in the Governance Work of Internal Auditors: Interplay Between Institutional Complexity and Organizational Embeddedness
Authors: Sinha Vikash Kumar , Arena Marika , Schiehll Eduardo
Published: August 2024

This study examines which factors facilitate (obstruct) the discretion exercised by ground‐level governance actors, such as internal auditors, in justifying their governance work. To achieve this objective, we rely on two complementary theoretical perspectives. One perspective proposes that the organizational embeddedness of ground‐level governance actors, ordained by high‐level governance actors (such as the board of directors), obstructs their discretion. In contrast, the other perspective, building on institutional complexity, propounds that multiple institutional demands facilitate the situated agency and discretion of ground‐level governance actors. Consistent with the emerging multilevel research on institutional complexity, we combine these two perspectives by including both the structural and static meso‐level factors (i.e. organizational embeddedness) as well as actors' situated agency. Utilizing three comparative cases, we demonstrate that internal auditors' ability to exercise discretion is facilitated (obstructed) when organizational embeddedness enables (constrains) the cohabitation of multiple institutional logics at the organizational level. In doing so, we identify organizationally situated agency as an underlying factor driving internal auditors’ justification approaches in their governance work.