bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Mammaliicoccus fleurettii as the source of a methicillin-resistant gene in a First Nation reserve lake in Manitoba, Canada
Authors: Bashar Sabrin , Patidar Rakesh , Wai Alvan , White Dawn , Golding George R. , Farenhorst Annemieke , Kumar Ayush
Published: November 2024

Our study aimed to identify the bacterial source of a previously detected mobile antibiotic-resistant gene, mecA, found in a lake that serves as a source to a water treatment plant operated by a First Nation reserve. Three methicillin-resistant presumptive Staphylococcus spp. isolated from the sample using selective media were verified as mecA positive by PCR. MALDI-TOF and whole-genome sequencing of each isolate confirmed that all three were Mammaliicoccus fleurettii. Antibiotic-resistant gene analysis of the assembled genomes predicted mecA with 99.7% sequence identity, and phylogenetic analysis grouped our three mecA genes with the mecA allele from a methicillin-resistant strain of Staphylococcus aureus. Identifying microbial species known to harbour mobile antibiotic-resistant elements can provide greater depth of information about drinking water, an especially essential need in First Nation reserves where water quality too frequently is poor.
When an underestimated zoonosis and antimicrobial resistance collide: Corynebacterium ulcerans
Authors: Mori Giovanni , Errico Giulia , Giancristoforo Sara , Visentin Donatella , Castagna Antonella , Viel Laura , Dellamaria Debora , Lorenzin Giovanni , Ortalli Gaia , Scarparo Claudio , Lanzafame Massimiliano
Published: November 2024

In the European region, diphtheria is now rarely suspected in patients presenting with upper respiratory tract symptoms. Corynebacterium ulcerans is the underestimated zoonosis that is replacing C. diphtheria infections in industrialized countries, but extensive human and animal prevalence studies are lacking. The range of hosts that can act as reservoirs for C. ulcerans is very broad, companion pets currently being the main source of human infection. We report a case of macrolide-resistant C. ulcerans infection with no apparent zoonotic transmission and outline the efforts required for the public and zooprophylactic management of these cases. We describe the main critical issues to be addressed to comprehensively tackle this zoonosis in the future.
Repurposing the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug diflunisal as an adjunct therapy with amphotericin B against mucoralean fungi
Authors: Kumari Anjna , Kaur Jasdeep , Sharma Pallavi , Kaur Mahaldeep , Singh Rachna
Published: November 2024

Introduction. Mucormycosis is an aggressive, angioinvasive infection associated with high morbidity and mortality. The disease remains difficult to treat, with limited available antifungal drugs. Consequently, there is an urgent need to develop alternate therapeutics against mucormycosis. In an earlier study, we demonstrated that the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug diflunisal impacted the actin cytoskeleton and quorum sensing and inhibited the formation of filopodia-/cytoneme-like extensions in Rhizopus arrhizus.

Hypothesis. The non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug diflunisal could exhibit potential antifungal activity.

Aim. This study aimed to investigate the plausible antifungal activity of diflunisal against a range of medically important Mucorales and its combination effect with antifungal drugs.

Methodology. The antifungal activity of diflunisal against Rhizopus arrhizus, Lichtheimia corymbifera, Rhizomucor pusillus, Cunninghamella bertholletiae, Mucor indicus, Mucor irregularis and Apophysomyces elegans was evaluated by broth microdilution assay. Allied salicylates were also screened. A combination assay with amphotericin B deoxycholate and posaconazole was performed by fractional inhibitory concentration test.

Results. Exposure to diflunisal inhibited Rhizopus arrhizus spore germination in a dose-dependent manner. MICs of diflunisal against different Mucorales ranged from 64 to 2048 µg ml−1. Remarkably low levels of diflunisal (0.03–2 µg ml−1), depending on the strain/species tested, improved the antifungal activity of amphotericin B against mucoralean fungi by twofold (ΣFIC ≈ 0.5–0.508; P<0.01). Field-emission scanning electron micrographs further confirmed these observations. MICs of posaconazole were unchanged by this compound.

Conclusion. Considering that amphotericin B remains the first-line drug against mucormycosis and exhibits dose-dependent side effects in clinical practice, especially nephrotoxicity, the observed additive interaction at remarkably low, clinically achievable levels of diflunisal demonstrates its potential utility as an adjunct therapy against mucoralean fungi.
Population-level whole-genome sequencing of Ascochyta rabiei identifies genomic loci associated with isolate aggressiveness
Authors: Vaghefi Niloofar , Bar Ido , Lawley Jonathan Wanderley , Sambasivam Prabhakaran Thanjavur , Christie Melody , Ford Rebecca
Published: November 2024

Ascochyta blight caused by the ascomycete Ascochyta rabiei poses a major biotic threat to chickpea (Cicer arietinum) industries worldwide and incurs substantial costs to the Australian multimillion-dollar chickpea industry in both disease control and yield loss. The fungus was introduced to Australia in the 1970s from an unknown source population and, within a few decades, successfully established in all Australian agroecological chickpea-growing regions. Although genetically highly clonal, a broad range of phenotypic variation in terms of aggressiveness exists among the Australian A. rabiei isolates. More recently, highly aggressive isolates capable of causing severe disease symptoms on moderate to highly resistant chickpea cultivars have increased in frequency. To identify genetic loci potentially associated with A. rabiei aggressiveness on Australian chickpea cultivars, we performed deep genome sequencing of 230 isolates collected from a range of agroecological chickpea-growing regions between 2013 and 2020. Population genetic analyses using genome-wide SNP data identified three main clusters of genetically closely related isolates in Australia. Phylogenetic analyses showed that highly aggressive phenotypes developed multiple times independently throughout the phylogeny. The results point to a minor contribution of multiple genetic regions and most likely epigenomic variations to aggressiveness of A. rabiei isolates on Australian chickpea cultivars.
The MobiliseMe study: A randomised controlled efficacy trial of a cognitive behavioural therapy smartphone application (ClearlyMe®) for reducing depressive symptoms in adolescents
Authors: O’Dea Bridianne , Li Sophie H. , Subotic-Kerry Mirjana , Achilles Melinda R. , Mackinnon Andrew J. , Batterham Philip J. , Christensen Helen , Roberts Anna , Nagendraprasad Komal , Dudley Zoe , Gillham Benjamin , Werner-Seidler Aliza
Published: November 2024

Aim

This trial evaluated the efficacy of a CBT smartphone application (ClearlyMe®) for reducing depressive symptoms in adolescents when delivered with and without guidance and when compared to an active control.

Design

An online three-arm, parallel-group randomised controlled trial. Ethical approval was provided by the University of New South Wales Human Research Ethics Committee.

Methods

Adolescents in Australia aged 12 to 17 years with mild to moderate depressive symptoms as measured by the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 Adolescent version (PHQ-A) who were not receiving treatment or experiencing recent or severe suicidality, had access to a smartphone, and parental consent were randomly allocated to receive (i) self-directed use of ClearlyMe®, (ii) ClearlyMe®with SMS-guided support, or the active control (SMS-delivered psychoeducation content) for six weeks. Participants were not directly informed of their allocation and the statistician was blinded for analysis. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, post intervention (primary endpoint: 6-weeks post baseline) and follow-up (secondary endpoint: 4-months post baseline). Primary outcome was change in depressive symptoms from baseline to post intervention as measured by the PHQ-A. Intention-to-treat analyses used multilevel linear modelling.

Results

569 adolescents (Mean age: 15.89, SD: 1.26, 74.2% female) were included in the analyses. The declines in depressive symptoms post intervention in the self-directed (d=0.35, 95%CI:-0.57 – -0.12) and guided conditions (d=0.33, 95%CI: -.0.55 – -0.10) were significantly greater than the control. The effects of self-directed and guided were comparable. There were no differences between the conditions at follow-up for any outcomes. Secondary outcomes followed a similar pattern of change at both endpoints, although there were no differential effects for anxiety symptoms. The risk of adverse events was almost double in the control when compared to the self-directed (IRR: 1.73, 95%CI: 1.15 – 2.62,P=.009) and guided conditions (IRR: 1.98 (95%CI: 1.27 – 3.08,P=.002).

Conclusions

ClearlyMe®, when delivered with or without SMS-guided support, was efficacious for short term reductions in depressive symptoms in adolescents when compared to SMS-delivered psychoeducation.

Trial registration

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12622000131752). Universal Trial Number: U1111-1271-8519

Trial funding

The trial operations were funded by a philanthropic donation from the Goodman Foundation and investigators were funded by National Health and Medical Research Council Investigator Grants (BOD grant number MRF1197249, AWS grant number GNT2008839, HC grant number GNT115614).
Effect of the daily exposure of 1.7 GHz LTE electromagnetic field in early fetal brain development using a human brain organoid model of the cerebral cortex
Authors: Park Gyu Yeon , Pan Ya Qi , Choi Yoon-Jeong , Kim Nam , Jeon Sangbong , Song Kiwon
Published: November 2024

Wireless communication technology’s ubiquity means constant exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF). While concerns exist about RF-EMF’s effects on fetal brain development, studying this in pregnant women poses ethical and safety challenges. Our study examined 1.7 GHz LTE RF-EMF’s impact on early human fetal brain development using brain organoids derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs).

Previous research showed that 100-day-old human cerebral cortical brain organoids correspond to 19-24 weeks post-conception of fetal brain development. We exposed organoids to 1.7 GHz LTE RF-EMF at 8 W/kg specific absorption rate (SAR) for 5 hours daily up to 100 days. We monitored size, developmental morphology, and developmental stage markers using immunofluorescence microscopy and qPCR analysis.

Comparing RF-EMF-exposed organoids with controls showed no significant differences in size, development, or expression of key markers: SOX2 and PAX6 (pluripotent cell markers), NEUN (mature neuronal marker), MAP2 (dendrite marker), and SYN1 (synapse marker). Results suggest that daily exposure to 1.7 GHz LTE RF-EMF at 8 W/kg SAR may not significantly affect early human fetal brain development.
The Multifunctional Catalytic Hemoglobin fromAmphitrite ornata: Protocols on Isolation, Taxonomic Identification, Protein Extraction, Purification, and Characterization
Authors: Husted Anna L. , Sutton Victoria R. , Nguyen Hao V. , Presnar Lauren A. , Blackburn R. Kevin , Staton Joseph L. , Borgianini Stephen A. , D’Antonio Edward L.
Published: November 2024

The multifunctional catalytic hemoglobin from the terebellid polychaeteAmphitrite ornata, also named dehaloperoxidase (AoDHP), utilizes the typical oxygen transport function in addition to four observed activities involved in substrate oxidation. The multifunctional ability ofAoDHP is presently a rare observation, and there exists a limitation for how novel dehaloperoxidases can be identified from macrobenthic infauna. In order to discover more infaunal DHP-bearing candidates, we have devised a facilitated method for an accurate taxonomic identification that places visual and molecular taxonomic approaches in parallel. Traditional visual taxonomic species identification by the non-specialist, at least forA. ornata, or even for other marine worms, is a very difficult and time-consuming task since a large diversity is present and the method is restricted to adult worm specimens. The work herein aimed to describe a method that particularly simplifies the taxonomic identification ofA. ornatathrough the assessment of its mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene by employing the DNA barcoding technique. Furthermore, whole worm specimens ofA. ornatawere used to extract and purifyAoDHP followed by an H2O2-dependent peroxidase activity assay evaluation against substrate 2,4,6-trichlorophenol.AoDHP isoenzyme A was also overexpressed as the recombinant protein inEscherichia coli, and its peroxidase activity parameters were compared toAoDHP from the natural source. The activity assay assessment indicated a tight correlation for all Michaelis-Menten parameters evaluated. We conclude that the method described herein exhibits a streamlined approach to identify the polychaeteA. ornata, which can be adopted by the non-specialist, and the full procedure is predicted to facilitate the discovery of novel dehaloperoxidases from other marine invertebrates.
Quantification and potential functional relevance of binding cooperativity of adjacent transcription factors on DNA
Authors: Wang Xinyao , Xie Chen , Shen Ke , Li Dubai , Xie Xiaoliang Sunney
Published: November 2024

In eukaryotes, expression of a particular gene is regulated by a combination of transcription factors (TFs) bound on regulatory regions of the genomic DNA (promoters and enhancers). Recent advances in genomic sequencing technology have allowed measurements of TFs’ footprints and binding affinities on DNA at the single-molecule level, permitting the probing of binding cooperativity among adjacent TFs. This necessitates quantitative descriptions of TFs’ binding cooperativity and understanding of its potential functional relevance. In this study, we show that, thermodynamically, the binding affinities of two adjacent TFs can either increase together (positive cooperativity) or decrease together (negative cooperativity), rather than changing in opposite directions. Their binding cooperativity can be quantified by theγcoefficient, which is independent of TF concentrations, and can be determined by single-molecule binding reads either fromin vitrothermodynamic condition or cellular condition of non-equilibrium steady state (NESS). The functional relevance of positive cooperativity, which has been extensively discussed in the literature, is the sigmoidal binding curve around a TF concentration threshold (analogous to oxygen binding to hemoglobin), whereas the functional relevance of negative cooperativity is two-fold. First, mutual exclusion of the two TFs enables bidirectional gene switching similar to CI-Cro system in phageλ. Second, under a non-equilibrium steady-state condition, in which TFs often exhibit intranuclear concentration fluctuations, negative binding cooperativity assures fast TF dissociation from DNA and hence rapid response for gene expression regulation.

Significance Statement

In eukaryotes, multiple transcription factors (TFs) bind to regulatory regions of DNA to control gene expression. The binding affinity of one TF to a specific DNA site is influenced by the binding of another TF at an adjacent site, exhibiting either positive or negative cooperativity (the TFs either strengthen or weaken each other’s binding). Here we present metric for such cooperativity from experimental measurables. Functionally, positive cooperativity assures sensitive response above a threshold of TF concentrations, whereas functional roles for negative cooperativity might be two folds: First, mutual exclusion of TFs’ binding enables bidirectional gene switching. Second, as TF concentrations oscillate under non-equilibrium steady-state condition, negative binding cooperativity assures fast TF dissociation, hence rapid switching of transcription.
The toxic effects of lead nitrate on human keratinocytes (HaCaT)
Authors: Mohamed Adnan , Mahathi Pemma , Nair Niveditha , DSouza Herman
Published: November 2024

This study investigated the cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial toxicity in human keratinocytes (HaCaT) caused by lead nitrate. An increase in lead nitrate concentration (50-800 µM) showed a decrease in cell viability and the IC50concentration was found to be 385.7 µM. Lead nitrate at 250 µM was also found to decrease the clonogenic potential, produce an increased number of binucleated cells with a micronucleus, increase the olive tail movement, reduce the thiol protein content, increase the intracellular and mitochondrial ROS levels, increase the mitochondrial mass and mitochondrial membrane potential. Which showed that Lead nitrate does indeed show cytotoxic, genotoxic effects as well as increase oxidative stress and alter mitochondrial functions.

HIGHLIGHTS

Lead nitrate causes cytotoxicity in keratinocytes with an IC50conc. of 385.7 µM.

Exposure to lead nitrate showed a significant increase in DNA damage.

Lead nitrate increased the mitochondrial membrane potential and mass.
Genetic Characterization of the Cell Types of in Developing Feathers, and the Evolution of Feather Complexity
Authors: Limber Cody , Wagner Günter P. , Prum Richard O.
Published: November 2024

Feathers are the most complex and diverse epidermal appendages found in vertebrates. Their unique hierarchical organization and development is based on a diversity of cell types and morphologies. Despite being well characterized morphologically and extensive molecular developmental research focusing on candidate genes, little is known about the gene regulatory identities of these presumptive feather cell types. Here, we use single cell and single nuclear RNA sequencing within situhybridization to identify and characterize cells types in embryonic chicken feathers. We show that the distinct cell morphologies correspond to feather cell types with distinct gene expression profiles. We also describe a previously unidentified cell type, the basal barb ridge epithelium, which appears to play a role in signaling necessary for barb ridge differentiation and pulp cap production. We also analyze RNA velocity trajectories of developing feather cells, and find distinct developmental trajectories for epidermal cells that constitute the mature feather and those that function only in feather development. Finally, we produce an evolutionary tree of feather cell types based on transcription factor expression in order to test prior developmental hypotheses about feather evolution. Our tree is consistent with the developmental model of feather evolution, and sheds light on the influence of ancestral epidermal stratification on feather cell evolution. This transcriptomic approach to study feather cell types helps lay the ground work for understanding the developmental evolutionary complexity and diversity of feathers.
Convergent relaxation of molecular constraint in herbivores reveals the changing role of liver and kidney functions across mammalian diets
Authors: Pollard Matthew D. , Meyer Wynn K. , Puckett Emily E.
Published: November 2024

Mammalia comprises a great diversity of diet types and associated adaptations. An understanding of the genomic mechanisms underlying these adaptations may offer insights for improving human health. Comparative genomic studies of diet that employ taxonomically restricted analyses or simplified diet classifications may suffer reduced power to detect molecular convergence associated with diet evolution. Here, we use a quantitative carnivory score—indicative of the amount of animal protein in the diet—for 80 mammalian species to detect significant correlations between the relative evolutionary rates of genes and changes in diet. We have identified six genes—ACADSB,CLDN16,CPB1,PNLIP,SLC13A2, andSLC14A2—that experienced significant changes in evolutionary constraint alongside changes in carnivory score, becoming less constrained in lineages evolving more herbivorous diets. We further consider the biological functions associated with diet evolution and observe that pathways related to amino acid and lipid metabolism, biological oxidation, and small molecule transport experienced reduced purifying selection as lineages became more herbivorous. Liver and kidney functions show similar patterns of constraint with dietary change. Our results indicate that these functions are important for the consumption of animal matter and become less important with the evolution of increasing herbivory. So, genes expressed in these tissues experience a relaxation of evolutionary constraint in more herbivorous lineages.
Hydrodynamics of marbling art
Authors: Sun Yue , Bush John W. M. , Spagnolie Saverio E. , Rycroft Chris H.
Published: November 2024

This paper is associated with a video winner of a 2023 American Physical Society's Division of Fluid Dynamics (DFD) Milton van Dyke Award for work presented at the DFD Gallery of Fluid Motion. The original video is available online at the Gallery of Fluid Motion,

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Dynamical Exciton Condensates in Biased Electron-Hole Bilayers
Authors: Sun Zhiyuan , Murakami Yuta , Xuan Fengyuan , Kaneko Tatsuya , Golež Denis , Millis Andrew J.
Published: November 2024

Bilayer materials may support interlayer excitons comprised of electrons in one layer and holes in the other. In experiments, a nonzero exciton density is typically sustained by a bias chemical potential, implemented either by optical pumping or by electrical contacts connected to the two layers. We show that if charge can tunnel between the layers, the chemical potential bias means that an exciton condensate is in the dynamical regime of ac Josephson effect. It has physical consequences such as tunneling currents and the ability to tune a condensate from bright (emitting coherent photons) to dark by experimental controlling knobs. If the system is placed in an optical cavity, coupling with cavity photons favors different dynamical states depending on the bias, realizing superradiant phases.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Should women continue to be less preferred for managerial positions? Evidence from Greece based on public hospitals’ financial performance
Authors: Karakolias Stefanos , Polyzos Nikolaos
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to enrich the debate on whether women should continue to be under-represented in the upper echelons of organisations. Evidence arrives from the health-care battlefield and, more specifically, the Greek public hospitals assessed in terms of financial performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The whole set of Greek public hospitals operating in 2022 were included in a quantitative approach, whereby financial ratios reflect financial performance, while the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – Chief Financial Officer (CFO) gender reflects the female representation. Descriptive statistics analysis, t-tests and correlation analysis were performed.

Findings

The findings of this study suggest that female CEOs significantly outperformed their male counterparts on liquidity and accounts payable turnover, while female CFOs surpassed males concerning inventory turnover. Contrarily, hospitals with male CFOs achieved higher profitability, but income statements seem self-manipulated thanks to state subsidies and cash accounting techniques. Women appear to focus on those components of financial performance which are better aligned to the social role of public entities, while their contribution to non-financial performance is also underpinned by previous research.

Practical implications

Women’s under-representation in management positions was partially confirmed, as less than 1 / 4 of hospitals appoint a female CEO but circa 7 / 10 of them appoint a female CFO. This could be attributed to stereotypes combined with policy and governance factors. The latter were discussed well in this paper shaping a roadmap towards better gender equality in health-care settings.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this was the first effort to investigate the association between managers’ gender and financial performance in Greek health care.
Exploring internationally educated nurses’ experiences from the lens of psychological capital: challenges and coping strategies
Authors: Robles Alma C. , Cho Yonjoo
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to explore the lived experiences of internationally educated nurses (IENs) in the USA, focusing on the challenges they faced and the coping strategies they used to cope with those challenges, to understand how IENs manage the challenges from the lens of psychological capital (PsyCap) development for their well-being, given the increasing reliance on IENs in addressing global nursing shortages.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used a qualitative research design to capture the lived experiences of IENs and conducted semi-structured interviews with 19 IENs from diverse backgrounds. The authors analyzed their narratives of challenges and coping strategies to adjust to the US health-care system, using a thematic analysis.

Findings

The IENs interviewed encountered significant challenges, such as having to adapt to cultural differences and facing systemic barriers in credentialing and integration. Their coping strategies included embracing hard work, reframing challenges through gratitude and seeking support from ethnic peer networks. Those coping strategies helped them manage the stress of adjusting to a new health-care environment. To help IENs cope with the challenges they face when entering a new health-care system in the USA, the authors recommend enhancing health-care leaders’ cultural awareness and implementing formal peer networks and systemic reforms.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to existing literature on IENs by offering a better understanding of the unique challenges they face, highlighting the need for tailored support for IENs in health-care settings. Future research is called for to test the effectiveness of the proposed recommendations for supporting IENs’ PsyCap development and well-being.

Practical implications

Insights from this study will guide health-care professions education and human resource development (HRD) practitioners in designing and developing targeted interventions to support IENs, such as cultural competence training for both peers and leaders and inclusive HRD practices, improving IENs’ well-being and patient care.

Originality/value

This study revealed unexpected insights into how IENs cope with challenges in US health care, including persistent language barriers, cultural belonging and systemic obstacles related to credentialing and immigration. Ethnic-specific peer support, emotional resilience and mental reframing, where IENs compare current challenges to past hardships, emerged as key coping strategies. These coping strategies enabled IENs to maintain their PsyCap and well-being, offering new perspectives that were not previously captured in the literature.
The influence of environmental attitudes and behaviour in encouraging public acceptance of protestor violence towards the oil and gas sector in Canada
Authors: Walsh Alexander , Walsh Philip R.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to address the gap in current knowledge on the social acceptance of political violence against, or in response to, the Canadian oil and gas industry. Specifically, this research sought to determine if environmental attitudes and behaviours can be predictors for support of various degrees of violent pro-environmental protest.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing upon Ajzen’s theory of planned behaviour and Oreg and Katz-Gerro’s model for predicting pro-environmental behaviour, the study examines data from a survey of 409 Canadians and uses step-wise regression to measure the association of predictors linking environmental attitudes with support for protester violence.

Findings

Findings suggest that personal willingness to sacrifice for the environment and a perception of environmental threat and concern are primary predictors linking environmental attitudes with support for protester violence. The study also identifies contextual factors such as age, activism history and police response tactics as influential.

Practical implications

The research contributes to understanding the complexities of environmental conflict and its implications for energy security policy. The results suggest that policies which encourage environmental sensitivity and commitment may be encouraging greater levels of activism and potentially violence against oil and gas companies.

Originality/value

While there exists research on the level of acceptance behind modern political violence in general, particularly against government in a broad sense, there is a noticeable absence of available literature on the risks of such political violence as it pertains specifically to oil and gas development and infrastructure in Canada.
Spatial heterogeneity in housing price-transaction ratios: a historical analysis of Tehran
Authors: Roohani Qadikolaei Mohsen , Hatami Yaser , Nikmard Namin Sara , Soltani Ali
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the intricate relationship between housing prices and transaction volumes in Tehran, a city with diverse socioeconomic and regional characteristics. This research addresses a critical gap in understanding the role of local spatial factors, which previous studies have often overlooked, focusing instead on macroeconomic variables.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a data set of housing transactions of Metropolitan Tehran from 2010 to 2020 sourced from secondary data, this study uses generalized linear mixed models and spatial clustering techniques. These methods enable an examination of geographical clustering and the effects of local contextual variables on the dynamics between housing prices and transaction volumes.

Findings

Results indicate significant spatial heterogeneity within Tehran’s housing market. Higher prices and transaction volumes are concentrated in the northern and western regions, influenced by factors such as employment rates, rental housing supply and the physical attributes of the housing stock. The findings suggest that macroeconomic policies alone are insufficient to address housing challenges in Tehran; targeted, localized interventions are necessary.

Research limitations/implications

This study’s reliance on secondary data and its focus on a single urban environment may limit the generalizability of the findings. Further research incorporating a wider range of local and macro variables could strengthen the applicability of the results across different contexts.

Practical implications

This study underscores the need for region-specific housing policies that consider local economic, social and spatial conditions. Policymakers could improve housing affordability and accessibility in Tehran by implementing tailored strategies to address the distinct needs of different districts.

Originality/value

This study offers a novel perspective by integrating spatial and contextual factors in housing market analysis, providing insights that challenge the traditional macroeconomic focus. The use of advanced statistical and spatial analysis techniques contributes to a deeper understanding of urban housing market dynamics.
Public perceptions and attitudes towards wages for essential frontline workers during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Reiersen Jon , Svarstad Elin
Published: November 2024

Purpose

How informed are people about the wage gap between those at the top and those at the lower end of the wage distribution? We analyse this question in the light of the debate that arose during the COVID-19 pandemic about the importance of essential frontline workers and how these are paid compared to other occupations.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses wage data for managers in private and public enterprises in Norway in addition to data on wages for two groups of essential frontline workers: cleaning operatives and nurses. We compared this data with what a sample of Norwegians believe the different occupational groups earn and what they think they ideally should earn.

Findings

Respondents overestimate the wages of cleaners and nurses, and they think that both groups should be paid more than they actually earn. Respondents also report ideal wage gaps between managers and essential workers that are significantly smaller than the actual wage gap.

Originality/value

Previous research shows that people on average underestimate actual wage gaps in society and that most people want wage gaps that are far lower than these underestimates. This study adds to this literature by looking at what people know about the pay conditions of essential frontline workers and what they think essential frontline workers ideally should be paid compared to other types of work.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-03-2024-0222
Consumer adoption of virtual reality for spectator sport: an adopter categorization based on the diffusion of innovation and uses and gratification theories
Authors: Park Kwangho , Koo Gi-Yong , Kim Minkil , Kim Sanghoon
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to (1) identify the factors that affect the adoption of virtual reality (VR) for spectator sports, (2) examine the differences in the factors among the four adopter categories (i.e. continuers, discontinuers, potentials and resistors) and (3) determine whether these factors are useful for discriminating among the adopter categories, based on the “diffusion of innovation” and “uses and gratification” theories.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 216 participants were included in the analysis. Logistic regression and multiple analyses of variance were conducted to identify the factors that affect the adoption of VRS and examine the differences in the factors between adopter and non-adopter as well as between the continuers, discontinuers, potentials and resistors.

Findings

This study found that actualized innovativeness, complexity, companionship and gender significantly affect user adoption of VR for spectator sports. There were significant differences in the factors among the four adopter categories. The factors were also useful in discriminating between the four adopter categories.

Originality/value

This study highlights how individuals embrace emerging technologies differently based on their adopter category characteristics. From a marketing perspective, the insights gained from this study can inform the development of targeted strategies, campaigns and user experiences for VR spectator sports (VRS). This approach promises new revenue streams for the spectator sport industry and offers solutions to challenges like declining viewership and digital marginalization. It underscores the potential success of VR technology in transforming the spectator sport industry.
Social networks and perceived social support among community corrections offenders in China: a pilot study report
Authors: Wang Xiaoyu , Abu Bakar Ah Siti Hajar , Azman Zaiton
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to assess the social network and perceived social support among community corrections offenders in China and compare the relationship between different sub-dimensions of social support and offenders’ social adaptation.

Design/methodology/approach

A descriptive design combined with self-administered questionnaires was used. A total of 54 valid responses were analysed, with participants displaying the following demographic characteristics: male offenders outnumbered female offenders, probationers constituted the highest proportion among all community corrections offenders and educational levels were generally low. Descriptive statistics and correlation analysis were conducted. The Lubben Social Network Scale, Interpersonal Support Evaluation List Scale and Person at Re-education-centre Social Adaptation Scale were used to measure the variables.

Findings

Participants exhibited generally good levels of social support, with moderately extensive social networks and perceived support. All sub-dimensions showed significant positive correlations with social adaptation, with the highest correlation for appraisal support (r = 0.743, p < 0.01), followed by instrumental support (r = 0.714, p < 0.01), emotional support (r = 0.687, p < 0.01), informational support (r = 0.685, P < 0.01) and social networks (r = 0.426, p < 0.01).

Practical implications

This study expands the understanding of community corrections offenders in China by focusing on the underexplored Sichuan Province, using empirical methods for data collection. It addresses a gap in previous research by examining both structural and functional support for offenders rather than focusing solely on one aspect. The study uses two scales, rarely used in Chinese research, to measure structural and functional support, thereby enhancing research on social support for offenders. Practically, it explores the correlation between social support and re-entry, offering valuable insights for improving offenders’ reintegration into society.

Originality/value

These results underscore the critical role of social networks and perceived social support in reintegrating Chinese community corrections offenders. Distinct from prior research, this study used a more comprehensive scale, less commonly used by Chinese scholars, to enable detailed measurement and analysis, highlighting the significance of both structural and functional support in informing practice in related fields.
Do the characteristics of the Sharia Supervisory Board affect the Islamic banks’ performance? Evidence from Arab countries
Authors: Al Thnaibat Mu’men , Al-Hajaya Krayyem , Alshhadat Mohammad Q.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the effect of Islamic governance through Sharia Supervisory Board (SSB) on performance of Islamic banks (IBs). Specifically, it investigates the impact of seven proxies for Islamic governance of SSB (size, number of meetings, independence, financial and accounting experiences, previous experience on SSBs, change in composition and presence of higher Sharia supervision) on the financial performance (return on assets [ROA]) of 28 listed IBs from 10 different Arab countries between 2019 and 2023.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from the annual reports and other information available on banks’ websites, the websites of central banks and the financial markets.

Findings

OLS regression results indicate that greater member independence, SSB members’ prior expertise and less change in the SSB composition have a significant positive influence on the financial performance of IBs.

Research limitations/implications

The study findings are useful to IBs, and the governing bodies in Islamic countries in terms of emphasizing the importance of maintaining the financial independence of SSBs, appointing expert members and maintaining stability in the composition of SSBs.

Practical implications

The study’s findings offer significant implications for Islamic investment banks and regulatory authorities. These findings highlight the critical importance of maintaining the financial independence of Shariah Supervisory Boards, selecting expert members, and preserving board stability.

Social implications

Policymakers may consider the authors’ recommendations to establish a higher SSB, affiliating this monitoring body with the financial market authority or the monetary authority, to create a sound governance system at the macro level and better enforcement.

Originality/value

This study provides an original contribution to Islamic banking and Islamic governance literature as a cross-countries study, in its consideration of the presence of higher Sharia supervision in the country, alongside members’ financial independence as variables in the effectiveness of SSBs, and as a result on the performance of IBs.
Halal certification of marketing mix focusing on cosmetics
Authors: Islam Mohammad Mominul , Ab Talib Mohamed Syazwan , Muhamad Nazlida
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Halal certification is predominantly linked with the product and its production process. However, certifying price, place and promotion (3Ps) has not received enough attention theoretically and empirically. Against this backdrop, this study aims to unravel the halal certification of the marketing mix in Bangladesh’s cosmetics industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Fourteen mid and top executives from 12 national, international and multinational cosmetic companies were interviewed from November 2023 to January 2024. The data were analyzed using ATLAS.ti 2024 to showcase content, concept, sentiment, correlation, network and thematic analysis, exploring respondents’ perceptions aligned with Islamic principles.

Findings

The respondents held highly negative perceptions about certifying halal pricing, followed by promotion and supply chain or place. The mixed perceptions illustrate that certifying the halal product is easier than certifying the halal price, promotion and place (3Ps). Conditional and positive perceptions can foster halal certification of the entire marketing mix, while negative perceptions seem to be a threat to the halal cosmetics industry.

Practical implications

The findings have implications for academic, managerial and policymaking issues, benefiting halal cosmetics consumers. Based on this empirical study, halal stakeholders can determine the likelihood of certifying the entire marketing mix.

Originality/value

This study proposes certifying the halal status of the marketing mix against the backdrop of the scarcity of theoretical and practical premises.
Food wastage in the era of e-commerce: prevention and mitigation panacea
Authors: Mohammed Ahmed , Zubairu Nasiru , Rodrigues Vasco Sanchez
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Online food shopping has emerged as a fast-growing market. However, the retail online food supply chain (ROFSC) is attracting increasing attention due to its social, environmental and financial impacts. This study aims to empirically evaluate food waste prevention and mitigation (FWPM) strategies in a real-world case study within the UK ROFSC.

Design/methodology/approach

Advanced methodologies are required to explore and address FWPM problems across ROFSC. Surveys and interviews were conducted with practitioners. Hard and soft data were collected from the case online retailer. Experts from an FWPM non-profit organization checked and validated the data collected.

Findings

Results revealed that inter/cross-organization integrated collaboration and visibility in the ROFSC influence FWPM. Findings established that consumers are the main source of food waste, followed by suppliers and online retailers, with 18, 11 and 1%, respectively. Worryingly, only 1% of respondents expressed that there is a strong commitment to a zero-waste strategy, emphasizing the necessity for more effective waste reduction initiatives and awareness.

Practical implications

The research outcome calls for further efforts by policymakers and practitioners to guide consumers toward efficient food waste management practices.

Originality/value

The study extends previous literature by proposing a holistic framework for reducing food waste from suppliers and consumers. The study captured interesting insights on food waste, including measuring, reasoning and destinations of online food waste.
State of the (Future) Field: The History of Collecting and Its Institutions
Authors: BOWYER SURYA , GUPTA SHREYA , PATERSON LIBERTY , ACHARYA NITI
Published: November 2024

This article considers the state of the field of the history of collecting and its institutions. Following on from a 2021 ‘state of the field’ article, also published in this journal, the present piece looks towards the future of this evolving field. The authors pay particular attention to work being undertaken from the perspective of collecting institutions rather than individual collectors. Our principal corpus is the series of Collaborative Doctoral Partnership projects that, over the past decade, have been run under the aegis of the UK's Arts and Humanities Research Council. The article considers, in turn, the following areas of research within the field: histories of empire, slavery and gender; investigations of stakeholders; digital collections research; and commercial histories of collecting. The article ends by looking beyond academia, to consider the recent wider impact of research into the history of collections and its institutions.
The safety net and child health and well‐being: evidence from the United States and the United Kingdom
Authors: Aizer Anna , Lleras‐Muney Adriana
Published: November 2024

Children are often a major beneficiary of social safety net programmes because they have higher rates of poverty. We review the evidence on whether, and to what extent, safety net spending via cash and in‐kind benefits (nutrition, early childhood education, housing and health care) affects child health and well‐being and, ultimately, children's income in adulthood. We also consider how recent changes to the safety net in the United States and the United Kingdom may affect child outcomes. We conclude that the safety net can and does help children who are growing up in poverty, with positive long‐term gains, especially among the most disadvantaged. While there is some evidence that parents may change their behaviours in response to incentives to maintain eligibility for safety net programmes, these changes appear small and, on net, children appear to be better off as a result of these programmes. A comprehensive study of the impact of the generosity and structure of the safety net on child outcomes and intergenerational mobility remains for future research.
Chromosomal‐Level Genome Suggests Adaptive Constraints Leading to the Historical Population Decline in an Extremely Endangered Plant
Authors: Shao Shao , Li Yulong , Feng Xiao , Jin Chuanfeng , Liu Min , Zhu Ranran , Tracy Miles E. , Guo Zixiao , He Ziwen , Shi Suhua , Xu Shaohua
Published: November 2024

Increased human activity and climate change have significantly impacted wild habitats and increased the number of endangered species. Exploring evolutionary history and predicting adaptive potential using genomic data will facilitate species conservation and biodiversity recovery. Here, we examined the genome evolution of a critically endangered tree Pellacalyx yunnanensis, a plant species with extremely small populations (PSESP) that is narrowly distributed in Xishuangbanna, China. The species has neared extinction due to economic exploitation in recent decades. We assembled a chromosome‐level genome of 334 Mb, with the N50 length of 20.5 Mb. Using the genome, we discovered that P. yunnanensis has undergone several population size reductions, leading to excess deleterious mutations. The species may possess low adaptive potential due to reduced genetic diversity and the loss of stress‐responsive genes. We estimate that P. yunnanensis is the basal species of its genus and diverged from its relatives during global cooling, suggesting it was stranded in unsuitable environments during periods of dramatic climate change. In particular, the loss of seed dormancy leads to germination under unfavourable conditions and reproduction challenges. This dormancy loss may have occurred through genetic changes that suppress ABA signalling and the loss of genes involved in seed maturation. The high‐quality genome has also enabled us to reveal phenotypic trait evolution in Rhizophoraceae and identify divergent adaptation to intertidal and inland habitats. In summary, our study elucidates mechanisms underlying the decline and evaluates the adaptive potential of P. yunnanensis to future climate change, informing future conservation efforts.