bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural basis of 3′-tRNA maturation by the human mitochondrial RNAse Z complex
Authors: Gesé Genís Valentín , Martin Hällberg B.
Published: May 2024

Human mitochondrial tRNA maturation is essential for cellular energy production, yet the underlying mechanisms remain only partially understood. Here, we present several cryo-EM structures of the mitochondrial RNase Z complex (ELAC2/SDR5C1/TRMT10C) bound to different maturation states of mitochondrial tRNAHis, showing the molecular basis for tRNA-substrate selection and catalysis. Our structural insights provide a molecular rationale for the 5′-to-3′ tRNA processing order in mitochondria, the 3′-CCA antideterminant effect, and the basis for sequence-independent recognition of mitochondrial tRNA substrates. Furthermore, the study links mutations in ELAC2 to clinically relevant mitochondrial diseases, offering a deeper understanding of the molecular defects contributing to these conditions.
Peripheral opioid tolerance involves skin keratinocytes and platelet-derived growth factor type B signaling
Authors: Posa Luca , Miracle Sophia A. , McDonald Ashley K. , Gamble Mackenzie , Albers Kathryn M. , Logan Ryan W. , Freyberg Zachary , Puig Stephanie
Published: May 2024

Opioid analgesic tolerance is a deleterious side-effect that requires escalation of dose to overcome reduced analgesia overtime. Dose-escalation dramatically reduces opioid safety due to centrally-mediated life-threatening side-effects, including respiratory depression or addiction. Peripheral opioid delivery is a safer alternative as it provides effective local analgesia with limited central penetration. However, tolerance also occurs peripherally, via mechanisms that remain unknown. Centrally, activation of the mu-opioid receptor (MOPr) by opioids induces release of platelet-derived growth factor-B (PDGF-B); and inhibition of PDGF receptor beta (PDGFRβ) prevents opioid tolerance. In the periphery, MOPr and PDGF-B are expressed in skin keratinocytes, and PDGFRβ is expressed in peripheral sensory neurons (PSNs), known to convey tolerance. Previous studies also showed that optogenetic stimulation of keratinocytes modulates PSNs via release of keratinocytes-derived factors. Thus, we hypothesized that mechanisms of peripheral opioid tolerance could involve keratinocytes and PDGFRβ signaling. Using behavioral pharmacology, optogenetics and in situ hybridization in mice, we found that selective inhibition of PDGFRβ at the periphery, prevents peripheral morphine tolerance caused by repeated intraplantar (i.pl.) morphine injections. In addition, we show that PDGF-B is necessary and sufficient to cause peripheral morphine tolerance and repeated peripheral morphine injections lead to an increase in PDGF-B mRNA in MOPr-expressing keratinocytes. In parallel, we discovered that repeated optogenetic activation of keratinocytes is sufficient to induce peripheral morphine tolerance in a PDGF-B/PDGFRβ-dependent manner. Together, these data show that keratinocytes and PDGF-B/PDGFRβ signaling are essential components in the mechanisms of peripheral opioid tolerance.
Multimodal analysis of RNA sequencing data powers discovery of complex trait genetics
Authors: Munro Daniel , Ehsan Nava , Esmaeili-Fard Seyed Mehdi , Gusev Alexander , Palmer Abraham A. , Mohammadi Pejman
Published: May 2024

Transcriptome data is commonly used to understand genome function via quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping and to identify the molecular mechanisms driving genome wide association study (GWAS) signals through colocalization analysis and transcriptome-wide association studies (TWAS). While RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) has the potential to reveal many modalities of transcriptional regulation, such as various splicing phenotypes, such studies are often limited to gene expression due to the complexity of extracting and analyzing multiple RNA phenotypes. Here, we present Pantry (Pan-transcriptomic phenotyping), a framework to efficiently generate diverse RNA phenotypes from RNA-seq data and perform downstream integrative analyses with genetic data. Pantry currently generates phenotypes from six modalities of transcriptional regulation (gene expression, isoform ratios, splice junction usage, alternative TSS/polyA usage, and RNA stability) and integrates them with genetic data via QTL mapping, TWAS, and colocalization testing. We applied Pantry to Geuvadis and GTEx data, and found that 4,768 of the genes with no identified expression QTL in Geuvadis had QTLs in at least one other transcriptional modality, resulting in a 66% increase in genes over expression QTL mapping. We further found that QTLs exhibit modality-specific functional properties that are further reinforced by joint analysis of different RNA modalities. We also show that generalizing TWAS to multiple RNA modalities (xTWAS) approximately doubles the discovery of unique gene-trait associations, and enhances identification of regulatory mechanisms underlying GWAS signal in 42% of previously associated gene-trait pairs. We provide the Pantry code, RNA phenotypes from all Geuvadis and GTEx samples, and xQTL and xTWAS results on the web.
Predation by nematode-trapping fungus triggers mechanosensory-dependent quiescence inCaenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Lin Tzu-Hsiang , Chang Han-Wen , Tay Rebecca J. , Hsueh Yen-Ping
Published: May 2024

Predation can induce behavioral changes in prey, yet the molecular and neuronal mechanisms underlying prey responses remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated how the nematodeCaenorhabditis elegansresponds to predation by the nematode-trapping fungus,Arthrobotrys oligospora. We found thatA. oligosporapredation induced quiescence inC. elegansshowing rapid cessation of pharyngeal pumping and movement. Calcium imaging revealed that this quiescence was regulated by the activation of sleep-promoting neurons, ALA and RIS. Genetic analyses demonstrated that ALA were essential for pharyngeal pumping inhibition, whereas both ALA and RIS contributed to movement cessation. Transcriptomic analysis inC. elegansshowed the upregulation of immune defense genes in response toA. oligosporapredation. We demonstrated that mechanosensation was required for pumping inhibition and transcriptomic regulation uponA. oligosporatrapping. These findings suggest that physical constraints imposed by fungal traps trigger a stress-induced quiescence and the upregulation of defense genes inC. elegans. We suggest that trapping-induced quiescence might be a predation strategy used by sessile predators to prevail in the evolutionary arms race.
Modelling the influence of climate and vector control interventions on arbovirus transmission
Authors: Fairbanks Emma L , Daly Janet M , Tildesley Michael J
Published: May 2024

Most mathematical models that assess the vectorial capacity of disease-transmitting insects typically focus on the influence of climatic factors to predict variations across different times and locations, or examine the impact of vector control interventions to forecast their potential effectiveness. We combine features of existing models to develop a novel model for vectorial capacity that considers both climate and vector control. This model considers how vector control tools affect vectors at each stage of their feeding cycle and incorporates host availability and preference. Applying this model to arboviruses of veterinary importance in Europe, we show that African horse sickness virus (AHSV) has a higher peak predicted vectorial capacity than bluetongue virus (BTV), Schmallenberg virus (SBV) and epizootic haemorrhagic disease virus (EHDV). However, AHSV has a shorter average infectious period, due to high mortality, therefore AHSV’s overall basic reproduction number is similar to BTV. A comparable relationship exists between SBV and EHDV, with both viruses showing similar basic reproduction numbers. Focusing on AHSV transmission in the UK, insecticide-treated stable netting is shown to significantly reduce vectorial capacity ofCulicoideseven at low coverage levels. However, untreated stable netting is likely to have limited impact. Overall, this model can be used to consider both climate and vector control interventions either currently utilised or for potential use in an outbreakand could help guide policy makers seeking to mitigate the impact of climate change on disease control.

Author summary

In our study, we developed an advanced mathematical model that integrates the influences of climate and vector control strategies to predict the transmission of arboviruses. This is then used to highlight the increase in vectorial capacity African horse sickness, bluetongue, epizootic haemorrhagic disease and Schmallenberg virus, which are transmitted by theCuli-coidesspecies, in a European climate over the last 50 years.

Our research provides valuable insights into how strategic use of insecticide-treated netting, even at low coverage levels, can substantially reduce the transmission potential of African horse sickness virus. This model offers a powerful tool for policymakers and health professionals, aiding in the formulation of more effective vector management strategies that could mitigate the impact of these diseases, especially in the context of changing global climates. This approach not only enhances our understanding of vector-borne disease dynamics but also supports the development of targeted interventions and prevent outbreaks.
Protease-activated receptor 2 links protease activity with calcium waves during egg activation and blastomere cleavage
Authors: Ma Jiajia , Carney Tom J.
Published: May 2024

Successful initiation of animal development requires activation of the egg immediately prior to fusion of gamete pronucleii. In all taxa, this is initiated by waves of calcium transients which transverse across the egg. Calcium waves also occur at cleavage furrows during later blastula cytokinesis. Calcium is released from the endoplasmic reticulum through activation of 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) receptors. Only a subset of the mechanisms employed to generate IP3during vertebrate egg activation are defined, with strong evidence that other critical mechanisms exist. Serine proteases have been long implicated in egg activation and fertilisation. Here we report that treatment of zebrafish eggs with serine protease inhibitors leads to defective calcium wave propagation and failed egg activation. We further show that mutation of zebrafish Protease-activated receptor 2a (Par2a) also results in severe disruption of egg activation, leading to failed chorion elevation and ooplasmic segregation. Milderpar2amutants progress further, but then show abnormal blastomere cleavage. We observed thatpar2amutants show decreased amplitude and duration of calcium transients. Restoring Ca++or direct injection of IP3ligand rescues egg activation aborted by either serine protease inhibitor treatment or by mutation of Par2a. We thus show that serine protease activity is a critical regulator of IP3and subsequent calcium wave amplification during zebrafish egg activation, and link this to intracellular calcium release via the protease receptor, Par2a. This constitutes a novel signalling pathway critical for successful fertilisation.

Significance Statement

Both sperm and egg must undergo a series of important steps to become competent for successful fertilisation. Defining these steps is central to our understanding of reproductive biology and our ability to improve fertility treatments. As the process of gamete maturation and fertilisation has highly conserved principles across the animal kingdom, there are also important implications for aqua- and agriculture. One of the first signalling events of your life leads to the release of bursts of calcium in the egg. We know the importance of this for fertilisation but have only a partial picture of how this occurs. Our work here, using fish genetics, identifies a new signalling pathway regulating these first important flashes of calcium in the egg.
Inter- and intra-subject similarity in network functional connectivity across a full narrative movie
Authors: Mochalski Lisa N. , Friedrich Patrick , Li Xuan , Kröll Jean-Philippe , Eickhoff Simon B. , Weis Susanne
Published: May 2024

Naturalistic paradigms, such as watching movies during functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), are thought to prompt the emotional and cognitive processes typically elicited in real life situations. Therefore, naturalistic viewing (NV) holds great potential for studying individual differences. However, in how far NV elicits similarity within and between subjects on a network level, particularly depending on emotions portrayed in movies, is currently unknown.

We used the studyforrest dataset to investigate the inter– and intra-subject similarity in network functional connectivity (NFC) of 14 meta-analytically defined networks across a full narrative, audio-visual movie split into 8 consecutive movie segments. We characterized the movie segments by valence and arousal portrayed within the sequences, before utilizing a linear mixed model to analyze which factors explain inter– and intra-subject similarity.

Our results showed that the model best explaining inter-subject similarity comprised network, movie segment, valence and a movie segment by valence interaction. Intra-subject similarity was influenced significantly by the same factors and an additional three-way interaction between movie segment, valence and arousal.

Overall, inter– and intra-subject similarity in NFC were sensitive to the ongoing narrative and emotions in the movie. Lowest similarity both within and between subjects was seen in the emotional regulation network and networks associated with long-term memory processing, which might be explained by specific features and content of the movie. We conclude that detailed characterization of movie features is crucial for NV research.
GREEN: a lightweight architecture using learnable wavelets and Riemannian geometry for biomarker exploration
Authors: Paillard Joseph , Hipp Joerg F , Engemann Denis A
Published: May 2024

Spectral analysis using wavelets is widely used for identifying biomarkers in EEG signals. At the same time, Riemannian geometry enabled theoretically grounded machine learning models with high performance for predicting biomedical outcomes from multichannel EEG recordings. However, these methods often rely on handcrafted rules and sequential optimization. In contrast, deep learning (DL) offers end-to-end trainable models that achieve state-of-the-art performance on various prediction tasks but lack interpretability and interoperability with established neuroscience concepts. We introduce GREEN (Gabor Riemann EEGNet), a lightweight neural network that integrates wavelet transforms and Riemannian geometry for processing raw EEG data. Benchmarking on five prediction tasks (age, sex, eyes-closed detection, dementia diagnosis, EEG pathology) across three datasets (TUAB, CAUEEG, TDBRAIN) with over 5000 participants, GREEN outperformed non-deep state-of-the-art models and performed favorably against large DL models on the CAU benchmark using orders of magnitude fewer parameters. Computational experiments showed that GREEN facilitates learning sparse representations without compromising performance. The modularity of GREEN allows for the computation of classical measures of phase synchrony, such as pairwise phase-locking values, which are found to convey information for dementia diagnosis. The learned wavelets can be interpreted as bandpass filters, enhancing explainability. We illustrate this with the Berger effect, demonstrating the modulation of 8-10 Hz power when closing the eyes. By integrating domain knowledge, GREEN achieves a desirable complexity-performance trade-off and learns interpretable EEG representations. The source code is publicly available.
Structure of the turnover-ready state of an ancestral respiratory complex I
Authors: Ivanov Bozhidar S. , Bridges Hannah R. , Jarman Owen D. , Hirst Judy
Published: May 2024

Respiratory complex I is pivotal for cellular energy conversion, harnessing energy from NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreduction to drive protons across energy-transducing membranes for ATP synthesis. Despite detailed structural information on complex I, its mechanism of catalysis remains elusive due to lack of accompanying functional data for comprehensive structure-function analyses. Here, we present the 2.3-Å resolution structure of complex I from the α-proteobacteriumParacoccus denitrificans, a close relative of the mitochondrial progenitor, in phospholipid-bilayer nanodiscs. Three eukaryotic-type supernumerary subunits (NDUFS4, NDUFS6 and NDUFA12) plus a novel L-isoaspartyl-O-methyltransferase are bound to the core complex. Importantly, the enzyme is in a single, homogeneous resting state that matches the closed, turnover-ready (active) state of mammalian complex I. Our structure reveals the elements that stabilise the closed state and completesP. denitrificanscomplex I as a unified platform for combining structure, function and genetics in mechanistic studies.
Immunotherapy-related cognitive impairment after CAR T cell therapy in mice
Authors: Geraghty Anna C. , Acosta-Alvarez Lehi , Rotiroti Maria , Dutton Selena , O’Dea Michael R. , Woo Pamelyn J. , Xu Haojun , Shamardani Kiarash , Mancusi Rebecca , Ni Lijun , Mulinyawe Sara B. , Kim Won Ju , Liddelow Shane A. , Majzner Robbie G. , Monje Michelle
Published: May 2024

Persistent central nervous system (CNS) immune dysregulation and consequent dysfunction of multiple neural cell types is central to the neurobiological underpinnings of a cognitive impairment syndrome that can occur following traditional cancer therapies or certain infections. Immunotherapies have revolutionized cancer care for many tumor types, but the potential long-term cognitive sequelae are incompletely understood. Here, we demonstrate in mouse models that chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy for both CNS and non-CNS cancers can impair cognitive function and induce a persistent CNS immune response characterized by white matter microglial reactivity and elevated cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cytokines and chemokines. Consequently, oligodendroglial homeostasis and hippocampal neurogenesis are disrupted. Microglial depletion rescues oligodendroglial deficits and cognitive performance in a behavioral test of attention and short-term memory function. Taken together, these findings illustrate similar mechanisms underlying immunotherapy-related cognitive impairment (IRCI) and cognitive impairment following traditional cancer therapies and other immune challenges.
Research on the impact of innovation investment on operating efficiency of listed forest product processing companies
Authors: Li Huifang , Pang Xinsheng
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The forest products processing industry is a key component of the forestry economy, and the level of companies’ operating efficiency directly affects its profitability and market competitiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to deeply study the operation status of forest product processing industry, this paper takes the panel data of 70 listed forest product processing companies from 2015 to 2022 as the basis, and adopts BBC, CCR and DEA-Malmquist models to measure the operating efficiency of these companies. Meanwhile, the Tobit model is applied to deeply explore the impact of innovation input on operating efficiency.

Findings

The results of the paper show that: (1) the overall operating efficiency of listed forest product processing companies performs well, and the improvement of technology level promotes the growth of total factor productivity; (2) innovation input plays a significant positive role in listed forest product processing companies, which positively affects the operating efficiency.

Practical implications

A scientific and reasonable evaluation of the operating efficiency of listed forest product companies is of great practical significance to the development of the forestry industry The study of forest product processing industry is of key significance to the social economy.

Originality/value

This paper explores the improvement of production and operation efficiency of forest products processing enterprises for the purpose of in-depth analysis of the current situation of China's forest products processing enterprises, which is conducive to improving the innovation and operation efficiency of China's forest products processing enterprises, and realizing the high-quality development of China's forest products processing industry.
The gendered plate: gender-specific food perceptions and sport sponsorship
Authors: Hussain Umer , Ma Han
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between food sponsorships and gender stereotypes, focusing on how patriarchal beliefs influence consumers’ purchase intentions in sports.

Design/methodology/approach

The research comprised two studies. In Study 1, n = 161 participants participated via Amazon’s Mechanical Turk platform. Study 2 involved n = 250 participants who completed a cross-sectional and self-administered survey.

Findings

Study 1 indicated an apparent gender-based categorization of certain foods and beverages: beer and red meat were predominantly perceived as masculine, while yogurt, salads, and wine were seen as feminine. Further, brands like Budweiser and Red Bull were mainly seen as masculine, while Chobani and Smoothie King were perceived as feminine. Moreover, findings indicate that foods, especially those rich in protein or linked to BBQ and spicy tastes, are considered more masculine by men than women in sports settings. Further, Study 2 findings unveiled a significant relationship between patriarchal beliefs and both attitudes (ß = 0.327, p < 0.01) and subjective norms (ß = 0.525, p < 0.01) towards masculine brands.

Originality/value

The two studies’ results underscore the profound impact of gender stereotypes shaping sports fans’ perceptions of food items and the brands sponsoring them. This inquiry significantly augments the current understanding of the nuanced interrelation between the paradigms of social role theory and the theory of planned behavior, particularly within the ambit of sports-related sponsorship by food and beverage brands and its consequent influence on consumer purchasing inclinations.
The interaction between the anchor and customers in live-streaming E-commerce
Authors: Chen Aihui , Chen Yaning , Li Ruohan , Lu Yaobin
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Live-streaming e-commerce is becoming a new way for many consumers to shop. During the live broadcast process, the interaction between anchors and customers plays a decisive role on consumers' purchasing decisions. This study aims to explore how two types of interaction between the anchor and the customers (i.e. task-oriented interaction and relationship-oriented interaction) affect customers' purchase decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

The study establishes a model based on online trust theory and multi-sensor interaction theory. To validate the model, we carried out five simulated live-streaming events and collected data through a scenario-based survey of the viewers participating in the live-streaming (N = 244). Structural equation modeling was employed to test the hypotheses.

Findings

Both task-oriented interaction and relationship-oriented interaction have a positive impact on users' purchase decisions through the mediation of virtual touch, emotional trust and cognitive trust. Sense of power has opposite moderating effects on the impacts of relationship-oriented interaction on emotional trust and cognitive trust.

Originality/value

This study enriches the theory of live-streaming e-commerce by demonstrating the decisive roles of two types of anchor–customer interaction, the mediation roles of virtual touch, cognitive trust, and emotional trust in customer purchase decisions, as well as the moderating effect of sense of power on customer decision-making processes. The findings provide practical insights for anchors and live-streaming platforms about how they should arrange live-streaming content to enhance consumer purchasing decisions.
Entrepreneurial ecosystem patterns and its determinants and outputs: a necessary condition analysis to the Brazilian entrepreneurial cities
Authors: Inacio Junior Edmundo , Dionisio Eduardo Avancci , Gimenez Fernando Antonio Padro
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to identify necessary conditions for innovative entrepreneurship in cities and determine similarities in entrepreneurial configurations among them.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors assessed the necessary conditions for various levels of entrepreneurial output and categorized cities based on similar patterns by applying necessary condition analysis (NCA) and cluster analysis in a sample comprised of 101 cities from the entrepreneurial cities index, representing a diverse range of urban environments in Brazil. A comprehensive data set, including both traditional indicators from official Bureau of statistics and nontraditional indicators from new platforms of science, technology and innovation intelligence, was compiled for analysis.

Findings

Bureaucratic complexity, urban conditions, transport infrastructure, economic development, access to financial capital, secondary education, entrepreneurial intention, support organizations and innovation inputs were identified as necessary for innovative entrepreneurship. Varying levels of these conditions were found to be required for different entrepreneurial outputs.

Research limitations/implications

The static nature of the data limits understanding of dynamic interactions among dimensions and their impact on entrepreneurial city performance.

Practical implications

Policymakers can use the findings to craft tailored support policies, leveraging the relationship between city-level taxonomy and direct outputs of innovative entrepreneurial ecosystems (EEs).

Social implications

The taxonomy and nontraditional indicators sheds light on the broader societal benefits of vibrant EEs, emphasizing their role in driving socioeconomic development.

Originality/value

The cluster analysis combined with NCA’s bottleneck analysis is an original endeavor which made it possible to identify performance benchmarks for Brazilian cities, according to common characteristics, as well as the required levels of each condition by each city group to achieve innovative entrepreneurial outputs.
The impact of public health efficiency on well-being in Italian provinces
Authors: Yebetchou Tchounkeu Rostand Arland
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This work aims to analyse the relationship between public health efficiency and well-being considering a panel of 102 Italian provinces from 2000 to 2016 and evaluates if there are omitted variable biases and endogeneity biases and also evaluates if there are heterogeneous effects among provinces with different income levels.

Design/methodology/approach

We use a multi-input and output bootstrap data envelopment analysis to assess public health efficiency. Then, we measure well-being indices using the min-max linear scaling transformation technique. A two-stage least squares model is used to identify the causal effect of improving public health efficiency on well-being to account for time-invariant heterogeneity, omitted variable bias and endogeneity bias.

Findings

After controlling for important economic factors, the results show a significant effect of an accountable and efficient public health system on well-being. Those effects are concentrated in the North, the most economically, geographically and environmentally advantageous areas.

Research limitations/implications

The use of the sample mean, probably the oldest and most used method for aggregating the indicators, could be affected by variable compensation, with consequent misleading results in the process of constructing the well-being index. Another limitation is the use of lagged values of the main predictor as an instrument in the instrumental variables setting because it could lead to information loss. Finally, the availability of data over a long period of time.

Practical implications

The findings could help policymakers adopt measures to strengthen the public health system, encourage private providers and inspire countries worldwide.

Social implications

These results draw the attention of local authorities, who play an important role in designing and implementing policies to stimulate local public health efficiency, which puts individuals in the conditions of achieving overall well-being in their communities.

Originality/value

For the first time in Italy, a panel of well-being indices was constructed by developing new methodologies based on microeconomic theory. Furthermore, for the first time, the assessment of the relationship between public health efficiency and well-being is carried out using a panel of 102 Italian provinces.
Halal–friendly attributes: a comparative study of different Muslim genders’ intentions to visit non–Islamic destinations
Authors: Jumani Zulfiqar Ali
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine how halal-friendly attributes at non-Islamic destinations affect the tourist attitude and visiting intentions of Muslim tourists of different genders from ASEAN countries.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a structured survey with a non-probability, convenience sampling approach, targeting residents of Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei. To assess the impact of halal-friendly attributes on destination image, tourist attitude and visiting intentions, a structural equation model was applied, analyzing the data across different genders.

Findings

The results indicate that the social environment exerts a positive influence on tourist attitudes for both males and females. In contrast, facilities have a negative impact on visiting intentions in both groups, with a more pronounced effect among males. While food and beverages positively influence the attitudes of female tourists, this effect is not observed in male tourists. Local factors and staff interactions show a strong positive impact on visiting intentions for males but only a marginal effect for females. The quality of service significantly boosts visiting intentions in both genders. Interestingly, tourist attitudes appear to have a negative effect on visiting intentions, with this trend being more evident in the female sample.

Research limitations/implications

The study is limited by its use of convenience sampling and self-reported data, which may not represent broader Indonesian perspectives and could introduce biases. Its focus on Indonesian perceptions and unexpected findings regarding tourist attitudes limit its generalizability and suggest unexplored factors affecting travel intentions.

Originality/value

This study offers new insights into how gender differences among Muslim tourists shape their intentions toward visiting non-Islamic destinations, emphasizing the role of halal-friendly attributes. These findings equip tourism operators and marketers with essential knowledge for developing inclusive, culturally sensitive practices, enhancing the travel experience for this significant segment of the global tourism market.
An exploratory study on the issues in weightages-based profit distribution mechanism in Islamic banking institutions: the case of Pakistan
Authors: Ullah Rahmat , Ullah Sami , Saba Irum
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore and analyze the issues in weightages-based profit distribution mechanism in Islamic banks from Shari’ah, practical and regulatory perspectives.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative research approach was used in this study based on primary data collected through semi-structured interviews from Shari’ah practitioners and senior industry experts in the field of pool management in the Islamic Financial Services Industry of Pakistan.

Findings

The current study found that the weightages-based mechanism conforms to the rules of Mudarabah and; therefore, permissible. However, the elements of exploitation, transparency and fairness require further research, as these elements seem to exist in this mechanism. It was also found that there are many loopholes in the regulatory guidelines for pool management in Islamic banking institutions (IBIs) in Pakistan resulting in practical issues.

Practical implications

The findings of this study may help improve pool management in IBIs, which in turn may cater the objections raised by academicians, customers and industry experts. Moreover, the alternative solution based on the findings of this study can be transformed into a proposal for regulators to take necessary actions against unfair profit distribution and issue further improved guidelines for IBIs in Pakistan.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, very limited studies have been conducted on pool management particularly with issues from different perspectives and alternative solutions have been suggested that may act as a proposal for IBIs as well as regulatory authorities.
Study on urban green development efficiency of Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Fujian in China: a mixed network SBM approach
Authors: Liu Dan , Liu Tiange , Zheng Yuting
Published: May 2024

Purpose

By studying the green development efficiency (GDE) of 33 cities in the provinces of Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Fujian in China, this study strives to conduct an analysis of the sustainable practices implemented in these developed regions, and derive valuable insights that can foster the promotion of green transformation.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the urban green development system (GDS) was decomposed into the economic benefit subsystem (EBS), social benefit subsystem (SBS), and pollution control subsystem (PCS). Then, a mixed network SBM model was proposed to evaluate the GDE during 20152020, with Moran’s I and Bootstrap truncated regression model subsequently applied to measure the spatial characteristics and driving factors of efficiency.

Findings

Subsystem efficiency presents a distribution trend of PCS > EBS > SBS. There is a particular spatial aggregation effect in EBS efficiency, whereas SBS and PCS efficiencies have no significant spatial autocorrelation. Furthermore, urbanization level contributes significantly to the efficiency of all subsystems; industrial structure, energy consumption, and technological innovation play a crucial role in EBS and SBS; external openness is a pivotal factor in SBS; and environmental regulation has a significant effect on PCS.

Originality/value

This study further decomposes the black box of GDS into subsystems including the economy, society, and environment. Additionally, by employing a mixed network SBM model and Bootstrap truncated regression model to investigate efficiency and its driving factors from the subsystem perspective, it endeavors to derive more detailed research conclusions and policy implications.
A scientometric analysis of bibliotherapy: mapping the research landscape
Authors: Joseph Jeena , Jose Jobin , Jose Anat Suman , Ettaniyil Gliu G. , Nair Sreena V.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Bibliotherapy, a therapeutic approach that uses books and reading materials to promote psychological well-being and personal growth, has become more prevalent in recent years. This scientometric study aims to provide a comprehensive view of the bibliotherapy research landscape by highlighting its evolution, trends, and noteworthy contributions using Biblioshiny and VOSviewer.

Design/methodology/approach

The academic literature on bibliotherapy is evaluated in-depth in this study utilizing scientometric techniques, including citation and co-citation analysis. A thorough search of the Scopus database revealed 1,703 papers between 1942 and 2023 that dealt with bibliotherapy. For data analysis, the renowned applications Biblioshiny and VOSViewer are employed.

Findings

The study reveals that the output of publications has fluctuated, reflecting scholarly interest in this discipline. The distribution of research across various countries, organizations and academic subjects is investigated further to highlight the diverse and global extent of bibliotherapy research. By analyzing co-citation networks and locating pertinent publications and authors, this scientometric method analyzes the intellectual structure of bibliotherapy research.

Research limitations/implications

Bibliometric analysis enriches the theoretical understanding of bibliotherapy by unveiling the networks, influential works and existing gaps in the literature, thus guiding a more informed and collaborative approach to future research and practice in the domain.

Practical implications

Employing bibliometric analysis in bibliotherapy can refine practices and training programs, ensuring they are evidence-based and practical, enhancing the quality of therapeutic services provided to individuals.

Originality/value

It is a valuable resource for academics, practitioners and policymakers interested in the field since it offers a thorough and current assessment of the bibliotherapy research landscape. The findings of this study have the potential to steer future research, guide the development of bibliotherapeutic interventions supported by evidence and enhance the use of bibliotherapy as a therapeutic modality.
Unraveling generative AI in BBC News: application, impact, literacy and governance
Authors: Lao Yucong , You Yukun
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to uncover the ongoing discourse on generative artificial intelligence (AI), literacy and governance while providing nuanced perspectives on stakeholder involvement and recommendations for the effective regulation and utilization of generative AI technologies.

Design/methodology/approach

This study chooses generative AI-related online news coverage on BBC News as the case study. Oriented by a case study methodology, this study conducts a qualitative content analysis on 78 news articles related to generative AI.

Findings

By analyzing 78 news articles, generative AI is found to be portrayed in the news in the following ways: Generative AI is primarily used in generating texts, images, audio and videos. Generative AI can have both positive and negative impacts on people’s everyday lives. People’s generative AI literacy includes understanding, using and evaluating generative AI and combating generative AI harms. Various stakeholders, encompassing government authorities, industry, organizations/institutions, academia and affected individuals/users, engage in the practice of AI governance concerning generative AI.

Originality/value

Based on the findings, this study constructs a framework of competencies and considerations constituting generative AI literacy. Furthermore, this study underscores the role played by government authorities as coordinators who conduct co-governance with other stakeholders regarding generative AI literacy and who possess the legislative authority to offer robust legal safeguards to protect against harm.
Summer alcohol‐related emergency department workload and occupancy in Australasia 2019–2022
Authors: Richardson Drew B , Fatovich Daniel M , Egerton‐Warburton Diana
Published: May 2024

Objective

Alcohol is a major public health issue and the ACEM funds regular ‘snapshot’ surveys of the prevalence of alcohol‐related presentations in EDs. The present study uses these data to investigate ED occupancy and alcohol‐ and methamphetamine‐related presentations at the time of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

Survey‐based point prevalence study of EDs in Australia and New Zealand conducted at 02:00 hours local time on the Saturday of the weekend before Christmas in 2019–2022. Primary outcomes were ED occupancy, the number of alcohol‐related presentations and methamphetamine‐related presentations in each ED at the time of survey.

Results

Seventy eight of a possible 152 hospitals answered all four surveys (51%, 95% confidence interval 43–59, individual yearly response rates ranged from 70.5% to 83.3%). The mean number of alcohol‐related presentations in EDs at the snapshot time was 4.2 (95% confidence interval 3.2–5.2) in the 2019 survey and 3.8 (3.1–4.6) in 2022 with no significant variation over time. There was also no change in methamphetamine‐related presentations which occurred at a lower level. There was a major increase in reported total ED occupancy – from 31.4 to 43.5 in Australia (P < 0.0001, paired t test) and from 22.8 to 38.7 in New Zealand (P = 0.0001). Subgroup analysis showed that both the number being treated and the number waiting to be seen increased, with little change in the number in observation units.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrates that the COVID‐19 pandemic did not affect summer alcohol‐related ED presentations in Australasia but was associated with an unsustainable increase in ED crowding.
Proteomic aging clock (PAC) predicts age‐related outcomes in middle‐aged and older adults
Authors: Kuo Chia‐Ling , Chen Zhiduo , Liu Peiran , Pilling Luke C. , Atkins Janice L. , Fortinsky Richard H. , Kuchel George A. , Diniz Breno S.
Published: May 2024

Beyond mere prognostication, optimal biomarkers of aging provide insights into qualitative and quantitative features of biological aging and might, therefore, offer useful information for the testing and, ultimately, clinical use of gerotherapeutics. We aimed to develop a proteomic aging clock (PAC) for all‐cause mortality risk as a proxy of biological age. Data were from the UK Biobank Pharma Proteomics Project, including 53,021 participants aged between 39 and 70 years and 2923 plasma proteins assessed using the Olink Explore 3072 assay®. 10.9% of the participants died during a mean follow‐up of 13.3 years, with the mean age at death of 70.1 years. The Spearman correlation between PAC proteomic age and chronological age was 0.77. PAC showed robust age‐adjusted associations and predictions for all‐cause mortality and the onset of various diseases in general and disease‐free participants. The proteins associated with PAC proteomic age deviation were enriched in several processes related to the hallmarks of biological aging. Our results expand previous findings by showing that biological age acceleration, based on PAC, strongly predicts all‐cause mortality and several incident disease outcomes. Particularly, it facilitates the evaluation of risk for multiple conditions in a disease‐free population, thereby, contributing to the prevention of initial diseases, which vary among individuals and may subsequently lead to additional comorbidities.
Seed banks and post‐fire recovery of invasive alien Metrosideros excelsa in South Africa: Implications for control
Authors: Kraaij Tineke , Geerts Sjirk , Malan Nicole
Published: May 2024

The New Zealand bottlebrush, Metrosideros excelsa (Myrtaceae), was introduced into South Africa in the 1940s as an ornamental plant and subsequently naturalized in coastal parts of the Cape Floristic Region. Knowledge of M. excelsa's propagule pressure and response to fire in South Africa can inform evaluation of the species' invasion potential and management. We assessed M. excelsa's canopy and soil seed banks in burnt and unburnt stands; and post‐fire regeneration via reseeding and resprouting in relation to fire severity and tree size. Soil seed banks were assessed using an emergence technique, but no seedlings emerged from soil collected under burnt or unburnt plants suggesting that the species does not maintain a viable soil‐stored seed bank or germination triggers were not met (though unlikely). The annual seed crop in the canopies of unburnt trees was approximately 0.5–23 million seeds per tree. Viability, assessed through tetrazolium stain testing, of canopy‐borne seeds on unburnt trees was 18%, whereas a canopy fire, ranging in severity from low to extreme, killed all canopy‐borne seeds. Fifteen months post‐fire, the seedling to pre‐fire (live) tree ratio was 0.01, whereas 43% of burnt trees survived via basal resprouting. Fire severity had a non‐linear effect on tree survival (survival was highest after medium and high fire severity and lowest after low and extreme fire severity), while larger trees were more likely to survive fire. These results suggest that even low‐severity (safe) burning may be a useful control measure as it kills canopy‐borne seeds and causes substantial mortality, particularly of smaller trees. An opportunistic evaluation of an uncontrolled (no comparison with untreated individuals) foliar herbicide application to post‐fire resprouting individuals also showed considerable (91%) mortality. However, rigorous herbicide trials (also with herbicide in conjunction with burning) are required to inform the management of M. excelsa.
Evaluation of canal patency and cleanliness following retreatment of bioceramic sealer‐obturated root canals using three different irrigant activation protocols
Authors: Lyngdoh Daiasharailang , Alam Sharique , Iftekhar Huma , Mishra Surendra Kumar
Published: May 2024

This study evaluated the effectiveness of three different irrigant activation techniques in cleaning and establishing patency during retreatment of root canals obturated with gutta‐percha and bioceramic sealer. 60 extracted premolars with oval‐shaped canals were instrumented and obturated with gutta‐percha and EndosequenceBC sealer using the ‘warm hydraulic condensation’ technique. The teeth were retreated using Protaper Universal Retreatment and XP‐Endo Shaper system and divided into four groups according to the irrigant activation protocol used: control, passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI), Endovac irrigation (EVI) and XP‐Endo Finisher R (XPFR). Apical patency was achieved in all the samples of the XPFR group (100%), which showed a significantly higher success rate compared with the control (73.3%) and EVI groups (73.3%) (p < 0.05). The scanning electron microscopic evaluation revealed significantly cleaner middle and apical third root canals in the PUI and XPFR groups compared with the control group (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that XPFR effectively cleans and establishes patency in root canals filled with bioceramic sealers.
Supportive care needs and anxious–depressive symptoms in cancer patients: An interaction effect between emotional competence and the COVID‐19 pandemic?
Authors: Baudry Anne‐Sophie , Charton Emilie , Hivert Benedicte , Carnot Aurelien , Ceban Tatiana , Dominguez Sophie , Lemaire Antoine , Aelbrecht‐Meurisse Capucine , Christophe Veronique
Published: May 2024

The main objective was to assess the link between emotional competence (EC) and adjustment outcomes such as supportive care needs (SCN) and anxious–depressive symptoms in cancer patients starting chemotherapy. The second objective was to assess the interaction effect between EC and the COVID‐19 pandemic (i.e. patients included before or during the pandemic) on these outcomes. At the beginning of care, 255 patients with digestive or hematological cancer, recruited before the pandemic began (n = 156, 61.2%) or during the pandemic (n = 99, 38.8%), completed the Short Profile of Emotional Competence, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and the Supportive Care Needs Survey Short Form. Partial correlations and multiple regressions were used. Intrapersonal EC showed negative significant correlations with psychological unmet SCN (r = −.32, p < .001), anxiety (r = −.37, p < .001), and depression (r = −.46, p < .001). Interpersonal EC showed only significant interaction effects (p < .05): it was only associated with fewer unmet physical and daily SCN (p < .002) and fewer depressive symptoms (p < .004) during pandemic. Results show significant associations between intrapersonal EC and better adjustment of cancer patients from the early stage of care. Interpersonal EC seems to be a significant resource to deal with illness only in difficult contexts such as the COVID‐19 pandemic.