bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitochondrial YBX1 promotes cancer cell metastasis by inhibiting pyruvate uptake
Authors: Chen Huan , Ling Ting , Chen Di , Liu Wenjuan , Qi Huan , Xia Tian , Liu Xiaolong , Wang Wen , Guo Xin , Otkur Wuxiyar , Wang Fangjun , Xu Zhaochao , Martinou Jean-Claude , Piao Hai-long
Published: September 2023

Pyruvate is an essential fuel for maintaining the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle in the mitochondria. However, the precise mole­cular mechanism of pyruvate uptake by mitochondrial pyruvate carrier (MPC) is largely unknown. Here, we report that the DNA/RNA-binding protein Y-box binding protein 1 (YBX1) is localized to the mitochondrial inter-membrane space by its C-terminal domain (CTD) in cancer cells. In mitochondria, YBX1 inhibits pyruvate uptake by associating with MPC1/2, thereby suppressing pyruvate-dependent TCA cycle flux. This association, in turn, promotes MPC-mediated glutaminolysis and histone lactylation. Our findings reveal that the YBX1-MPC axis exhibits a positive correlation with metastatic potential, while does not affect cell proliferation in both cultured cells and tumor xenografts. Therefore, the restricted pyruvate uptake into mitochondria potentially represents a hallmark of metastatic capacity, suggesting that the YBX1-MPC axis is a therapeutic target for combating cancer metastasis.
Genetic cancer risk assessment for PA practice
Authors: Lord Katharine F. , King Elisabeth M. , Smith Edith C.
Published: September 2023

The roles of cancer genetics and risk assessment as areas of medicine are rapidly evolving. Genetic cancer risk assessment (GCRA) has begun to penetrate patient care for providers in all specialties and areas of expertise. To provide comprehensive patient care and thorough risk evaluation, physician associates/assistants (PAs) should have a fundamental understanding of the role of GCRA as it pertains to their patients' overall health and medical management. This article highlights the importance of GCRA services, outlines resources for PAs to gain proficiency in GCRA, and provides a walkthrough of GCRA practice development and maintenance.
How Entering Students View Nursing as a Profession After COVID-19: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Binford Leslie , Butler Kristen , Meyer Cindy , Rice Mary Eve , Wilson Debra Rose
Published: September 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected the nursing profession. Nurses were called heroes during the pandemic, yet nursing is now suffering a staffing crisis. This phenomenological study asked 15 incoming first-semester nursing students about their perceptions of the nursing profession. Verbatim transcripts were analyzed, and three themes emerged: Vicarious Pride, Raw Gratitude, and Help Is Coming. With a need to attract more applicants and graduate more nurses, nursing schools might use these identified concepts to recruit and motivate prospective students. This research provides insight into the motivation to attend nursing school following the pandemic.
Psychostimulants prescribed to children for ADHD following distal radius fractures significantly reduce bone density as a function of duration
Authors: Ortiz Layla M. , O’Malley Natasha , Blum Kenneth , Hadjiargyrou Michael , Komatsu David E. , Thanos Panayotis K.
Published: September 2023

Methylphenidate and mixed amphetamine salts (MAS) are psychostimulant medications widely prescribed for various psychiatric disorders. Although these medications are known to adversely impact bone mineral content and density, as well as biomechanical integrity during skeletal development in rats, their effect on bone density in children remains largely unknown. The primary aim of this work was to investigate the effects of methylphenidate and MAS on bone density following distal radius fractures in pediatric populations, and secondarily assess any impact on healing. The retrospective case-control study was designed to assess fracture healing in patients treated with stimulant drugs and matched controls. For the primary outcome, X-rays (n = 188) were evaluated using an optical density image analysis technique to compare bone density throughout the bone healing process. Results showed that methylphenidate and MAS significantly reduced bone healing by approximately 20% following distal radius fractures in these children. The data also suggested that duration of psychostimulant use played a role in bone healing; the longer the treatment (1–5 years), the lower the bone density was observed (by approximately 52%) as compared to controls (no medication). However, subjects taking these drugs for longer than 5 years did not show a significant difference. Our results suggested that children taking psychostimulants for up to 5 years had slower bone healing following distal radius fractures. Orthopedic surgeons planning elective surgeries should be cognizant of this as a potential issue in recovery after any elective bone procedures and preoperatively optimize bone health as well as counsel patients and their families.
Antiplatelet therapy around CABG: the latest evidence
Authors: Sandner Sigrid , Redfors Björn , Gaudino Mario
Published: September 2023

Purpose of review

The optimal antiplatelet strategy in patients after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery is unclear. We review the evidence on the efficacy and safety of DAPT after CABG and discuss potential novel antiplatelet strategies that reduce the risk of bleeding without loss of efficacy.

Recent findings

Adding the potent P2Y12 inhibitor ticagrelor to aspirin for 1 year after CABG is associated with a reduction in the risk of vein graft failure, at the expense of an increased risk of clinically important bleeding. Ticagrelor monotherapy is not associated with better efficacy than aspirin alone, but is not associated with increased bleeding risk.

Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) is recommended after acute coronary syndrome events, but aspirin as single antiplatelet therapy remains the cornerstone of antithrombotic therapy in stable ischemic heart disease because of a lack of solid evidence on the benefit of DAPT on clinical outcomes. Shorter duration DAPT, based on the pathophysiology of vein graft failure, may be a promising strategy that requires testing in adequately powered randomized trials.
Coronary artery bypass grafting in left ventricular dysfunction: when and how
Authors: Iacona Gabriele M. , Bakhos Jules J. , Tong Michael Z. , Bakaeen Faisal G.
Published: September 2023

Purpose of review

The surgical management of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) with low ejection fraction presents unique challenges that require meticulous attention to details and good surgical technique and judgement. This review details the latest evidence and best practices in the care of such patients.

Recent findings

CABG in patients with low ejection fraction carries a significant risk of perioperative mortality and morbidity related to the development of postcardiotomy shock. Preoperative optimization with pharmacological or mechanical support is required, especially in patients with cardiogenic shock. Rapid and complete revascularization is what CABG surgeons aim to achieve. Multiple arterial revascularization should be reserved to selected patients. Off-pump CABG, on-pump breathing heart CABG, and new cardioplegic solutions remain of uncertain benefit compared with traditional CABG.

Tremendous advancements in CABG allowed surgeons to offer revascularization to patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction and multivessel disease with acceptable risk. Despite that, there is a lack of comprehensive and robust studies particularly on long-term outcomes. Individualized patient assessment and a heart team approach should be used to determine the optimal surgical strategy for each patient.
Repigmentation of the Nipple-Areola Complex following Free Nipple Grafting
Authors: Humar Pooja , Bailey Elizabeth , De La Cruz Carolyn , Nguyen Vu , Gimbel Michael
Published: September 2023

Background:

Free nipple grafting (FNG) is a technique historically used during breast reduction and top surgery for treatment of gender dysphoria to minimize nipple-areola complex (NAC) hypoperfusion and subsequent loss. One drawback of this approach is NAC hypopigmentation. The authors sought to quantify long-term pigmentation changes in the NAC after FNG.

Methods:

A retrospective review of patients who underwent reduction mammaplasty or simple mastectomy with FNG from 2000 through 2020 at the authors’ institution was conducted. Patients were included if they had preoperative, early, and late postoperative images. Images were analyzed using the National Institutes of Health’s Image J software for pigmentation changes over time.

Results:

Of the 151 patients identified, 56 patients (111 breasts) had complete imaging (macromastia, n = 47; oncologic, n = 4; gender dysphoria, n = 5). All patients had NAC hypopigmentation on early imaging, with 25.5% (SD 18.1%) of the NACs affected. On late imaging, 83 NACs (74.7%) experienced repigmentation, with only 8.7% (SD 7.3%) of the NAC area remaining hypopigmented. This represents a 67.2% resolution of pigmentation (P < 0.001). Ten NACs (9.0%) had progression of hypopigmentation, and 17 NACs (15.3%) had no change. In a subset analysis by race, White patients had significantly greater area of NAC hypopigmentation on early postoperative imaging (White, 29.3% [SD 18.8%] versus Black, 18.3% [SD 14.0%]; P < 0.01). However, resolution of hypopigmentation was similar between the groups.

Conclusions:

Although partial hypopigmentation of the NAC is nearly universal after FNG, a majority of patients experience repigmentation, with low residual hypopigmentation at 1 year. These findings are useful for counseling patients with early pigmentation changes in addition to guiding surgical decisions about breast surgery with FNG.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic, IV.
FARMS: Framework for Animal and Robot Modeling and Simulation
Authors: Arreguit Jonathan , Tata Ramalingasetty Shravan , Ijspeert Auke
Published: September 2023

The study of animal locomotion and neuromechanical control offers valuable insights for advancing research in neuroscience, biomechanics, and robotics. We have developed FARMS (Framework for Animal and Robot Modeling and Simulation), an open-source, interdisciplinary framework, designed to facilitate access to modeling, simulation, and analysis of animal locomotion and bio-inspired robotic systems. By providing an accessible and user-friendly platform, FARMS aims to lower the barriers for researchers to explore the complex interactions between the nervous system, musculoskeletal structures, and their environment. Integrating the MuJoCo physics engine in a modular manner, FARMS enables realistic simulations and fosters collaboration among neuroscientists, biologists, and roboticists. FARMS has already been extensively used to study locomotion in animals such as mice, drosophila, fish, salamanders, and centipedes, serving as a platform to investigate the role of central pattern generators and sensory feedback. This article provides an overview of the FARMS framework, discusses its interdisciplinary approach, showcases its versatility through specific case studies, and highlights its effectiveness in advancing our understanding of locomotion. Overall, the goal of FARMS is to contribute to a deeper understanding of animal locomotion, the development of innovative bio-inspired robotic systems, and promote accessibility in neuromechanical research.
Massive lateral gene transfer under strain coexistence in the gut
Authors: Frazão N. , Seixas E. , Barreto H.C. , Mischler M. , Güleresi D. , Gordo I.
Published: September 2023

Mammals are colonized by multiple strains ofEscherichia coli, yet how such strain coexistence affects their tempo and mode of evolution is poorly understood. Here, by following the colonization of two phylogenetic distinct strains ofE. coliin the mouse gut, we find a strain-specific mode of evolution and a remarkable level of gene transfer between strains. In the same host, despite accumulating mutations at the same rate, one strain evolves by diversifying selection and the other by directional selection, and a rich dynamics of bacteriophage and plasmid transfer is found. Our results provide support for an important role of lateral transduction in the mammalian gut.
Co-crystal sustained by π-type halogen-bonding interactions between 1,4-diiodoperchlorobenzene and naphthalene
Authors: Bosch Eric , Reinheimer Eric W. , Unruh Daniel K. , Groeneman Ryan H.
Published: September 2023

The formation and crystal structure of a co-crystal based upon 1,4-diiodoperchlorobenzene (C6I2Cl4) as the halogen-bond donor along with naphthalene (nap) as the acceptor is reported. The co-crystal [systematic name: 1,2,4,5-tetrachloro-3,6-diiodobenzene–naphthalene, (C6I2Cl4)·(nap)] generates a chevron-like structure that is held together primarily by π-type halogen bonds (i.e. C—I...π contacts) between the components. In addition, C6I2Cl4 also interacts with the acceptor via C—Cl...π contacts that help stabilize the co-crystal. Within the solid, both aromatic components are found to engage in offset and homogeneous face-to-face π–π stacking interactions. Lastly, the halogen-bond donor C6I2Cl4 is found to engage with neighboring donors by both Type I chlorine–chlorine and Type II iodine–chlorine contacts, which generates an extended structure.
The impact of AI-powered technologies on aesthetic, cognitive and affective experience dimensions: a connected store experiment
Authors: El Abed Mehdi , Castro-Lopez Adrian
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Digitalization is revolutionizing the retail sector as today's consumers prefer a seamlessly integrated, fluid and irritation-free shopping experience enhanced with artificial intelligence (AI)-powered technologies. Literature highlights gaps in the understanding of the shopping experience in an omnichannel context, involving aesthetic, cognitive and affective experience dimensions. This research highlights the direct effects and the mechanism triggered in the presence of such device.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 259 consumers was interviewed at the point of sale. Data have been collected after a shopping experience in two concept stores belonging to the same fashion brand: (1) not equipped with AI-powered technology and (2) equipped with these tools. The measurement scales were validated through ANCOVA analysis and causal relationship analysis with structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results show that the presence of an in-store AI-powered technologies in a connected store generates a higher aesthetic reaction when visiting the store, a higher absorption when shopping through the flow and a higher intent to purchase. The authors further investigate the underlying mechanism triggered by the presence of this technology, which enables the authors to outline their consequences regarding purchase intention.

Originality/value

The study, conducted within an actual connected store in France, explores the impact of AI technology in connected retail environments on consumer responses. It is an early research in this field, shedding light on a rarely explored area. The authors’ research addresses a significant gap, providing insights into AI-driven retail experiences.
Examining brand transgression, behavioral responses and the mediating effect of perceived brand betrayal
Authors: Rasouli Nasrin , Alimohammadirokni Mohammad , Rasoolimanesh S. Mostafa , Momayez Ayatollah , Emadlou Nafas (Atefeh)
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the effect of brand transgression severity on different behavioral responses (BRs). In addition, the role of perceived brand betrayal (BB) is examined as a mediator between brand transgression severity and BRs.

Design/methodology/approach

A total number of 331 customers of Tehran travel agencies were recruited as the statistical sample. Partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) using SmartPLS 4 software was used to analyze the collected data.

Findings

The results showed that the severity of brand transgression significantly affects perceived BB and customer BR, including avoidance and retaliatory behaviors. Moreover, the results showed that perceived BB has a mediating role in the relationship between brand transgression severity and reparatory and retaliatory behaviors.

Originality/value

This study adds to the understanding of consumer behavior by demonstrating how customers react to brand transgression severity through perceived BB.
Towards a novel cyber physical control system framework: a deep learning driven use case
Authors: Moufaddal Mariam , Benghabrit Asmaa , Bouhaddou Imane
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The health crisis has highlighted the shortcomings of the industry sector which has revealed its vulnerability. To date, there is no guarantee of a return to the “world before”. The ability of companies to cope with these changes is a key competitive advantage requiring the adoption/mastery of industry 4.0 technologies. Therefore, companies must adapt their business processes to fit into similar situations.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed methodology comprises three steps. First, a comparative analysis of the existing CPSs is elaborated. Second, following this analysis, a deep learning driven CPS framework is proposed highlighting its components and tiers. Third, a real industrial case is presented to demonstrate the application of the envisioned framework. Deep learning network-based methods of object detection are used to train the model and evaluation is assessed accordingly.

Findings

The analysis revealed that most of the existing CPS frameworks address manufacturing related subjects. This illustrates the need for a resilient industrial CPS targeting other areas and considering CPSs as loopback systems preserving human–machine interaction, endowed with data tiering approach for easy and fast data access and embedded with deep learning-based computer vision processing methods.

Originality/value

This study provides insights about what needs to be addressed in terms of challenges faced due to unforeseen situations or adapting to new ones. In this paper, the CPS framework was used as a monitoring system in compliance with the precautionary measures (social distancing) and for self-protection with wearing the necessary equipments. Nevertheless, the proposed framework can be used and adapted to any industrial or non-industrial environments by adjusting object detection purpose.
Networking effects of innovations: evidence from the Global South
Authors: Prakash Navendu , Singh Shveta , Sharma Seema
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the short- and long-run influence of core banking solutions (CBSs) on productive efficiency and identify the presence of potential network externalities arising from CBS adoption. This paper further examines the differential behaviour of long-term effects across the banking structure.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a panel data set of Indian commercial banks from 2005 to 2021. Economic efficiency is quantified using VRS-based DEA programming algorithms. Productivity changes are measured through an input-oriented, DEA-based Malmquist productivity index. Short- and long-run effects are examined through a finite autoregressive distributed lag model, estimated through a pooled mean-group estimator.

Findings

Findings suggest that CBS adoption negatively correlates with cost structure until the first year of adoption. Nevertheless, significant benefits are visible from the third year. Furthermore, such associations are highly susceptible to the industry structure. CBS results in higher incremental benefits for private banks vis-à-vis state-owned banks. Large banks receive significant and quicker productivity improvements from CBS vis-à-vis small banks. Bank age guides CBS–performance associations, highlighting that mature banks may face the issue of legacy infrastructure in CBS adoption. The resultant networking externalities are significant as they enhance the attractiveness of the network, which subsequently augments inter-branch and inter-bank communications.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to recognise the stickiness of one of the most homogeneously adopted technological innovations in the Indian banking sector. The presence of a conjoint technological network has the potential to enhance the service delivery process and ensure superior returns for Indian banks.
Parental influence on next-generation family members in South African Black-owned family businesses
Authors: Ntari Lwando , Deliwe Ayanda Pamella
Published: September 2023

Purpose

There are many factors that contribute to a person's career choice. The decision of whether or not to join the family business is certainly most influenced by parents. The aim of this research is to determine how much of an impact parents have on their next-generation family members' (NGFMs) decision to join the family business.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a positivistic paradigm, a cross-sectional design was followed using a quantitative, self-administered questionnaire through a judgemental sampling technique. A structured questionnaire was distributed to South African respondents who have parents who own a family business. The data were analysed using Statistica.

Findings

The results indicate that parental style, culture, self-efficacy and parental identification were found to influence the NGFMs' intention to join the family business significantly. Their decisions can be influenced by several factors, and parents can better manage these aspects by being aware of these influencing factors.

Practical implications

Given the imminent ageing of a large cohort of senior leaders, this research adds to the body of knowledge by highlighting the necessity for committed, willing and ready next-generation family members (NGFMs) to ensure efficient succession in family businesses. Therefore, effective management is required for succession-planning, particularly from the perspective of the successor.

Originality/value

This study, therefore, responds to calls for more in-depth quantitative studies on family businesses in general and on Black-owned family businesses in South Africa in particular. This study will evaluate the significance of parent influence on NGFMs to join Black family-owned businesses in South Africa. This research will assist family business owners and their families in understanding their children's intentions, designing and evolving an appropriate system to instill necessary traits, skills and attitudes in the children, preparing them for upcoming challenges, adding new perspectives to the family business and ensuring its profitability and long-term growth.
A holistic qualitative exploration on the perception of scams, scam techniques and effectiveness of anti-scam campaigns in Malaysia
Authors: Wilson Sharon , Hassan Nor Azlili , Khor Kheng Kia , Sinnappan Santhidran , Abu Bakar Afi Roshezry , Tan Soon Aun
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Scams are indeed malicious attempts to influence people and can take many forms, including online scams. With the increasing availability of technology, scammers have more tools at their disposal to create convincing and sophisticated communications that appear to come from legitimate sources, such as emails, text messages or social media posts. These scams can be designed to trick individuals into clicking on malicious links, downloading malware or ransomware or providing sensitive information such as login information, financial information or personal details. Scammers often use social engineering techniques to persuade their targets to take specific actions, such as creating a sense of urgency, offering a reward or prize or posing as a trusted authority. These tactics can be highly effective, particularly if the target is unaware of the warning signs of a scam or is unfamiliar with how to protect themselves from online fraud. This paper aims to explore the extent and nature of this problem and evokes the concern that the general public is vulnerable and susceptible to scams if they are not resilient and aware. This paper also explores why victims fall for online scams and uncovers preventive measures to enable a direction in tacitly strategizing ways to create more impactful and effective awareness campaigns.

Design/methodology/approach

This study explores these aspects through a holistic qualitative approach. Using in-depth interview techniques with six victims, six non-victims, four law enforcement officers, four scammers and seven stakeholders from various agencies such as banks, telecommunication agencies and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission involved in combating the issue of scams.

Findings

The findings generally revealed that participants who were victims of scams felt Malaysians were susceptible to scams, easily fooled and had a nonchalant attitude. Most participants also highlighted that public safety is important for ensuring a high quality of life for citizens that should work closely between the government and non-government agencies, including effective law enforcement and crime prevention strategies.

Originality/value

The uniqueness of this study is the feedback from scammers themselves and their input towards authority and victims. Overall, the respondents provide their views drawing strength from the ever-changing technological background as well as the susceptibility of security features and vulnerability of human engagement.
Improving Islamic bank performance through agency cost and dual board governance
Authors: Kismawadi Early Ridho
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impact of agency cost, Islamic board characteristics and corporate governance on the performance of Islamic institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the selected criteria, 92 Islamic banks (IBs) from 20 countries were selected for further research. The authors used generalized method moments (GMM) estimation method. The agency cost and Shariah board characteristics are the explanatory variables. The author uses the age of the bank and the size of the bank for variable control.

Findings

Empirical results indicate that first, agency costs represented by cast/total assets negatively affect IBs’ return on equity and net income. As agency costs rise, IBs’ financial performance declines. Second, Shariah supervisory board (SSB) size and board independence affect IB performance. The study found that SSB size positively affects IB performance.

Research limitations/implications

This research contributes to the literature on IBs in different countries, which policymakers and practitioners can use to improve agency cost functions and Shariah board characteristics. Second, this analysis shows that IBs require specific attention for agency charges, given their operations and business structures. This study contributes to agency theory, which requires Islamic banking information and practices. Finally, the author has aided regulators and IBs by identifying the sources of agency cost practices that can be resolved. The other bank governance contribution is twofold. First, the author studied dual board governance in IBs (SSB and ordinary boards of directors). Second, the author examines how SSB and traditional board governance affect IB performance. This research focuses on banks listed on stock exchanges in the 20 countries analysed.

Practical implications

The research has policy and practical implications for central banks and IBs. By outlining appropriate regulatory guidelines and reporting systems, regulatory authorities can ensure Sharia compliance and protect the independence of IB Shariah department officers. Regulators and relevant stakeholders must ensure Sharia compliance, audits, inspections, reporting and accurate disclosure for IBs.

Originality/value

This paper offers original contributions to professionals in the field of IBs and stakeholders investigating the relationship between agency costs, governance of IBs, characteristics of Islamic supervisory boards and the performance of IBs.
Rejuvenating the practice of Mahr for Muslim women’s financial empowerment through an interest-free savings-based finance model
Authors: Jahangir Rashed , Bulut Mehmet
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study aims to propose a model to elevate the financial empowerment of Muslim women by rejuvenating the practice of Mahr in society and facilitating the affordability of men to pay that Mahr amount.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach of this study is to offer a model through the interest-free savings-based finance concept. The model comprises four stages; each stage of the model is mathematically formulated and graphically explained to ensure clarity and coherence. To further investigate the issue, the authors use a convenient sampling method to ask a small sample size of respondents (women) from different countries about their financial contribution and empowerment in the family.

Findings

This model enables women to turn their exclusive financial right into a source of earning without borrowing from any source or paying interest on the principal amount. Besides, it encourages accelerating men’s obligation to pay the Mahr to the women immediately during the marriage ceremony by facilitating men’s affordability. Almost 45% of respondents state that a woman’s financial contribution exalts her decision-making power and strengthens her financial position in the family.

Social implications

The authors attempt to revitalize Mahr practice in Muslim society to accelerate the process of receiving a woman’s exclusive financial right and empower a family as a whole through the Mahr model.

Originality/value

Considering the model’s uniqueness, the developed and proposed Mahr model in this research is novel; to the best of the authors’ knowledge, no other study has been conducted and developed such a model using the Mahr concept.
The role of networks for women’s empowerment. The case of Industrie Femminili Italiane at the beginning of 20th century
Authors: Picciaia Francesca , Terzani Simone , Mari Libero Mario
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to analyse the role of a network in the development of female business experiences through the study of the Industrie Femminili Italiane (I.F.I.) (Italian Women’s Cooperative Enterprise), founded in 1903 in Rome to promote women’s work and their economic conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applies the embeddedness theory for women’s empowerment that provides a valuable lens to explore the interactions between female entrepreneurs and their social, cultural and economic contexts.

Findings

With this study, the authors found that the network structure was used at the beginning of the past century in Italy as a useful instrument for female emancipation and empowerment, extending to common/not exceptional women entrepreneurial opportunities otherwise reserved for rich and noble women. In the interplay among the different “contexts” (political, social, cultural and cognitive), it seems to emerge the incidence of female social relationships in facing an unfavourable political and cultural context, breaking out the norms and allowing the business to exist and influencing, with the activity of the high social standing women, the cognitive structure of the other female workers, make them active participants in this entrepreneurial activity.

Research limitations/implications

This is a single case study that has shed light on a specific female network, and the authors’ findings and considerations are influenced by the shortage of data and sources available. Demonstrating that I.F.I. is the result of the collaboration of women from different social classes involved at different organisational levels, this work shows, from a historical perspective, the importance of female mutual support for their emancipation and the role played by the network structure as an amplifier of possibilities otherwise limited to rich women, the emancipation of women and minorities in countries characterised by important barriers to entrepreneurship.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first paper analysing a female entrepreneurial network from a historical point of view and its role in overcoming gender barriers within the analysis of the interplaying contexts.
Real Estate Insights Back to the basics of sustainability
Authors: Wofford Larry
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Starting with the notion that each building has an overall life cycle, the paper uses building-based and investment-based life cycles to identify likely decision points for renovations, including sustainability enhancements, and identifies patterns in sustainability decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

This real estate insights paper considers how commercial real estate and the built environment it creates, owns and manages impacts the sustainability of urban areas and the globe. By combining building-based and investment-based life cycles, it is possible to develop a unique “sustainability enhancement quotient” for individual buildings and the built environment for an urban area over a given time interval.

Findings

Using two life cycles allows the identification and likelihood of sustainability decision points. The same life cycles and decision points are used to consider the likely extent of such renovations. This is in addition to continuous consideration of renovations producing economic benefits in the form of lower operating costs and quick return of capital.

Research limitations/implications

Useful for investment decision-making and policy design and implementation.

Practical implications

This is a useful tool for public and private decision making. It is suggested that the sustainability enhancement quotient may be used to design and implement policies and decisions maximising the likelihood of sustainability enhancement in an urban area's built environment.

Social implications

Provides a framework for more effective sustainability decisions and public policy. The public-private interplay inherent in every building is emphasised throughout.

Originality/value

Original combination of existing tools.
The subsidiary strategising process for a competence-creating role
Authors: O'Riordan Niall , Ryan Paul , Andersson Ulf
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The authors’ contention in this paper is that the expression of subsidiary strategy in IB literature has become fragmented and incomplete. Therefore, this study aims to propose a rethink on how IB scholarship approaches the important issue of subsidiary strategy by holistically examining the discrete and integrated set of activities, choices and decisions that constitute the subsidiary strategy process for, in this context, assuming a competence-creating role within the multinational enterprise (MNE).

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual model is designed to illustrate the holistic process of subsidiary strategy from assigned to assumed role and how a subsidiary can navigate a pathway to elevated performance and survival.

Findings

The paper identifies the key integrated elements that constitute a holistic strategic process that can enhance a subsidiary’s standing within the MNE and maximise its survival prospects.

Research limitations/implications

Particular focus is placed on subsidiaries that strategise to advance their internal corporate role to competence creator via upgraded knowledge capabilities.

Originality/value

This paper offers a roadmap for IB scholars to contribute to a future discourse around the subsidiary strategy process for assuming a competence-creating role.
Living with the scepticism for qualitative research: a phenomenological polyethnography
Authors: Taylor Jill Fenton , Crestani Ivana
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to explore how an academic researcher and a practitioner experience scepticism for their qualitative research.

Design/methodology/approach

The study applies Olt and Teman's new conceptual phenomenological polyethnography (2019) methodology, a hybrid of phenomenology and duoethnography.

Findings

For the researcher-participants, the essence of living with scepticism means feeling a sense of injustice; struggling with the desire for simplicity and quantification; being in a circle of uneasiness; having a survival mechanism; and embracing healthy scepticism. They experience the essence differently and similarly in varied cultural contexts. Through duoethnographic conversations, they acknowledge that while there can be scepticism of their work, it is important to remain sceptical, persistent and curious by challenging traditional concepts. Theoretical and practical advances in artificial intelligence (AI) continue to highlight the need for clarifying qualitative researcher roles in academia and practice.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the debate of qualitative versus quantitative research. Its originality is in exploring scepticism as lived experience, from an academic and practitioner perspective and applying a phenomenological polyethnography approach that blends two different traditional research paradigms.
Logs or permits? Forestry land use decisions in an emissions trading scheme
Authors: White Dominic , Winchester Niven
Published: September 2023

Negative carbon emissions options are required to meet long‐term climate goals in many countries. One way to incentivise these options is by paying farmers for carbon sequestered by forests through an emissions trading scheme (ETS). New Zealand has a comprehensive ETS, which includes incentives for farmers to plant permanent exotic forests. This research uses an economy‐wide model, a forestry model and land use change functions to measure the expected proportion of farmers with trees at harvesting age that will change land use from production to permanent forests in New Zealand from 2014 to 2050. We also estimate the impacts on carbon sequestration, the carbon price, gross emissions, GDP and welfare. When there is forestry land use change, the results indicate that the responsiveness of land owners to the carbon price has a measured impact on carbon sequestration. For example, under the fastest land use change scenario, carbon sequestration reaches 29.93 Mt CO2e by 2050 compared to 23.41 Mt CO2e in the no land use change scenario (a 28% increase). Even under the slowest land use change scenario, carbon sequestration is 25.89 Mt CO2e by 2050 (an 11% increase compared with no land use change). This is because, if foresters decide not to switch to permanent forests in 1 year, carbon prices and ultimately incentives to convert to permanent forests will be higher in future years.
Pathogenic fungi shape the fungal community, network complexity, and pathogenesis in kiwifruit
Authors: Huang Ke , Sun Xiangcheng , Li Xiaojiao , Huang Xiaoya , Sun Zhiqiang , Li Wenhua , Wang Junkui , Tian Dawei , Lin Chenglin , Wu Xuehong , Miao Cailing , Li Yujing , Xu Panpan , Fan Tianyu , Zhu Shuxin , Li Na , Zeng Li , Liu Jia , Sui Yuan
Published: September 2023

Kiwifruit decay caused by endophytic fungi is affected by exogenous pathogens that trigger changes in fungal community composition and interact with the endophytic fungal community. Four fungal pathogens of kiwifruit were identified. These wereAspergillus japonicus,Aspergillus flavus,Botryosphaeria dothidea, andPenicillium oxalicum. Except forP. oxalicum, the remaining three species represent newly described pathogens of kiwifruit. All four fungal species caused disease and decay in mature kiwifruit. Results of the fungal community analysis indicated that three pathogens thatA. japonicus,A. flavusandP. oxalicumwere the most dominant, however, other fungal species that did not cause disease symptoms were also present. Positive interactions between fungal species were found in asymptomatic, symptomatic, and infected kiwifruit. The ability of all four pathogens to infect kiwifruit was confirmed in an inoculation experiment. The presence of any one of the four identified pathogens accelerated decay development and limited the postharvest longevity of harvested kiwifruit. Results of the study identified and confirmed the ability of four fungal species to infect and cause decay in harvested kiwifruit. Changes in the structure and composition of the kiwifruit microbiome during the decay process were also characterized. This provides a foundation for the further study of the microbiome of kiwifruit and their involvement in postharvest diseases.
Adrenal limb thickness is associated with metabolism profiles in patients with diabetes: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Liu Yingning , Zou Xiantong , Zhao Wei , Yao Xun , Wang Lexuan , Zhou LingLi , Zhang Rui , Luo Yingying , Li Meng , Zhang Xiuying , Zhu Yu , Cai Xiaoling , Zhou Xianghai , Han Xueyao , Ji Linong
Published: September 2023

Background

The association between adrenal size and metabolic profiles in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) is unclear. This study was conducted to determine whether the adrenal thickness measured by computed tomography (CT) is correlated with the metabolic profiles of patients with DM.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study including 588 Chinese hospitalized patients with DM without comorbidities or medications known to affect adrenal morphology or hormone secretion. Adrenal limb thickness was measured on unenhanced chest CT. Participants were stratified into tertiles according to their total adrenal limb thickness. Linear and logistic regression models were used to estimate the correlations.

Results

After adjustment for sex and age, the adrenal thickness was positively associated with body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), urinary albumin/creatinine ratio, and 24‐h urinary free cortisol (UFC) and negatively correlated with high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol. The sequential equation model (SEM) suggested UFC partially mediated the effect of adrenal limb thickness on WC by 12%. Adrenal thickness, but not UFC, was associated with a higher risk of existing hypertension (odds ratio [OR] = 3.78, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.58, 9.02) and hyperlipidemia (OR = 2.76, 95% CI 1.03, 7.38), independent of age, gender, BMI, and WC.

Conclusions

The adrenal thickness is independently associated with BMI, WC, cortisol levels, urinary albumin/creatinine ratio, hypertension, and dyslipidemia but not glycemic parameters in patients with diabetes. Our study encourages further studies to investigate the role of adrenal physiology in patients with diabetes.
Who is Entitled to Oppose Planning Decisions? Politics of Rightful Resistance in Tehran
Authors: Tafti Mojgan Taheri , Abdi Kimia , Khosronezhad Mahdis , Nikbin Mahshid
Published: September 2023

People's oppositions to planning decisions are on the rise even in exclusionary‐repressive systems. However, in such contexts, decades of dismantling social networks, repressing the circulation of information, and criminalising dissent make oppositions short‐lived, fragile, and risky. Rightful resistance, studies suggest, presents a modality of contestation which mitigates such risks. This paper seeks to contribute to the literature on this modality, focusing on, first, the intermeshed and co‐evolving relations of the rightful resisters and different sections of the state in the context of contingent citizenship, and second, the interactions of rightful resisters with the larger community. Through a detailed analysis of a case study of rightful resistance in Tehran, the paper complicates the often one‐sided narratives of improvisation of individuals that the literature depicts. More importantly, the paper reveals the possibilities that such modalities of contestation reproduce, reinforce, and re‐affirm the exclusionary‐repressive practices of the state.
Does the route matter? A preclinical review of mesenchymal stromal cell delivery to the kidney
Authors: Kresse Jean‐Claude , Gregersen Emil , Atay Jasmine Cicek Leifing , Eijken Marco , Nørregaard Rikke
Published: September 2023

Mesenchymal stromal/stem cell (MSC) therapy has been thoroughly tested in preclinical animal models and holds great promise for the treatment of kidney diseases. It is becoming increasingly evident that the efficacy of MSC therapy is dependent on several factors including dosage, the tissue source of MSCs, the route of delivery and timing of administration. In a time where MSC therapy is moving from preclinical research to clinically therapeutic use, the importance of choice of delivery method, modality, and administration route increases. In this review, we provide an overview of the different MSC delivery routes used in preclinical kidney disease models, highlight the recent advances in the field, and summarize studies comparing delivery routes of MSCs to the kidney.
Moving CAR‐Ts to the outpatient clinic
Authors: Llaurador Gabriela A. , Heslop Helen E. , Steffin David H.
Published: September 2023

As centres obtain more experience with commercial CARs, there has been increasing interest in trying to move as much as the procedure as possible to the outpatient clinic to reduce costs, maximize reimbursement and increase patient satisfaction. The report by Ly et al. details how their centre implemented outpatient CAR therapy and were able to reduce admission time without affecting outcomes.

Commentary on: Ly et al. Outpatient CD19‐directed CAR T‐cell therapy is feasible in patients of all ages. Br J Haematol 2023;203:688‐692.
Group 2 ITI Consensus Report: Technological developments in implant prosthetics
Authors: Derksen W. , Joda T. , Chantler J. , Fehmer V. , Gallucci G. O. , Gierthmuehlen P. C. , Ioannidis A. , Karasan D. , Lanis A. , Pala K. , Pjetursson B. E. , Roccuzzo M. , Sailer I. , Strauss F. J. , Sun T. C. , Wolfart S. , Zitzmann N. U.
Published: September 2023

Objectives

Group‐2 reviewed the scientific evidence in the field of «Technology». Focused research questions were: (1) additive versus subtractive manufacturing of implant restorations; (2) survival, complications, and esthetics comparing prefabricated versus customized abutments; and (3) survival of posterior implant‐supported multi‐unit fixed dental prostheses.

Materials and Methods

Literature was systematically screened, and 67 publications could be critically reviewed following PRISMA guidelines, resulting in three systematic reviews. Consensus statements were presented to the plenary where after modification, those were accepted.

Results

Additively fabricated implant restorations of zirconia and polymers were investigated for marginal/internal adaptation and mechanical properties without clear results in favor of one technology or material. Titanium base abutments for screw‐retained implant single crowns compared to customized abutments did not show significant differences concerning 1‐year survival. PFM, veneered and monolithic zirconia implant‐supported multi‐unit posterior fixed dental prostheses demonstrated similar high 3‐year survival rates, whereas veneered restorations exhibited the highest annual ceramic fracture and chipping rates.

Conclusions

For interim tooth‐colored implant single crowns both additive and subtractive manufacturing are viable techniques. The clinical performance of additively produced restorations remains to be investigated. Implant single crowns on titanium base abutments show similar clinical performance compared to other type of abutments; however, long‐term clinical data from RCTs are needed. The abutment selection should be considered already during the planning phase. Digital planning facilitates 3D visualization of the prosthetic design including abutment selection. In the posterior area, monolithic zirconia is recommended as the material of choice for multi‐unit implant restorations to reduce technical complications.