bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of climate risk on financial performance – evidence from select energy companies from select G-20 countries
Authors: Bauri Somnath , Mondal Amitava , Fatma Ummatul
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The recent meeting of G-20 world leaders, held in New Delhi, in 2023, highlighted that the physical effect of climate change has considerable macro-economic costs at the national and global levels and they have also pledged to accelerate the clean, sustainable and inclusive energy transition along a variety of pathways. Climate change could pose various emerging risks to the firm’s operational and financial activities, specifically for those which are belonging to the energy sector. Thus, this study aims to investigate the impact of climate risks on the financial performance of select energy companies from G-20 countries.

Design/methodology/approach

The study considered 48 energy companies from G-20 countries as the sample for the period of 2017 to 2021. To measure the climate change-related physical risks, the study has considered the ND-GAIN climate vulnerability score and the firm’s financial performance has been measured by return on assets, return on equity, return on capital used and price-to-book ratio. To examine the impact of climate risks on the financial performance of the sample companies, the authors have used pooled ordinary least squares (OLS) and fixed/random effect regression analysis and required data diagnosis tests are also performed.

Findings

The empirical results suggested that climate risks negatively impacted the financial performance of the sample companies. The market performances of the firms are also being impacted by the physical climate change. The results of panel data regression analysis also confirmed the robustness of the empirical results derived from the pooled OLS analysis suggesting that firms that operated in a less climate-risky country, financially performed better than the firms that operated in a more climate-risky country.

Practical implications

The paper has significant practical implications like it could be helpful for the policymakers, investors, suppliers, researchers and other stakeholders in developing deeper insights about the impact of climate risks on the energy sectors from an international perspective. This study may also help the policymakers in developing policies for the management of climate risk for the energy sector.

Originality/value

This study adds insights to the existing literature in the area of climate risks and firm’s financial performance. Moreover, this may be the first study that attempts to evaluate the impact of climate risks on the financial performance of select energy companies from the G-20’s perspective.
Tourist acceptance of using ride-sharing services in a tourism destination: hedonia vs eudaimonia and technophilia vs technophobia
Authors: Herjanto Halimin , Amin Muslim , Ali Faizan , Cobanoglu Cihan , Djalil Muslim A. A.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine how affective and technological attitudes influence tourists’ intentions to use ride-sharing services. The authors also explore the moderating effects of perceived freedom and digital literacy on these relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample consisted of local and international tourists using ride-sharing services in Bali, Indonesia. The authors used convenience sampling to distribute questionnaires to the respondents, collecting 258 responses. Out of these, 222 responses were fully completed and suitable for analysis.

Findings

The results revealed that hedonia, eudaimonia, technophilia and technophobia each differently influence tourists’ intentions to use ride-sharing services. Perceived freedom and digital literacy moderate the strength of these relationships.

Research limitations/implications

This research builds on previous studies by investigating how various aspects of happiness affect tourists' intentions to use ride-sharing services. It also emphasizes the role of perceived freedom and digital literacy in moderating the relationship between happiness, technology adoption attitudes and ride-sharing intentions.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the existing ride-sharing literature by integrating two dimensions of affective attitude (hedonia and eudaimonia) and technology adoption attitude (technophilia and technophobia) to examine their effects on tourists’ intentions to use ride-sharing services.
Development and psychometric validation of a scale for sources of resistance to change in higher education institutions
Authors: González Favián , Pardo-del-Val Manuela , Redondo Ana
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of the present study was to develop a measurement model to identify sources of resistance to change (RC) based on a previous systematic review.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample comprised 121 participants (faculty, students, graduates, and employees). Twenty-three items were assessed in four distinct stages: observation, exploration, confirmation, and communication. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis ensured the validity and reliability of the measurement process.

Findings

The final 14-item model consisted of four groups: “Personalities averse to change”; “Limited participation in the change process”; “Dominant sociocultural predisposition”; and “Weak managerial commitment to change.”

Practical implications

It is hoped that the study will encourage further diagnostic examinations and assessments of the structural relationships associated with RC.

Originality/value

The present study expands our understanding of RC source typologies, the majority of which have focused on the individual and the organization. Higher education institutions bear a responsibility to initiate change to align with evolving environmental demands, but their endeavors are often subject to obstacles and delays stemming from individual and collective influences. To manage efficiently the conceptualization, planning, implementation, and management of change initiatives, we must comprehend and assess the primary sources of RC within such institutions.
Causes of occupational stress and burnout amongst administrative staff in public universities: case of Pakistan
Authors: Noor Shaista , Aslam Ambreen , Md Isa Filzah
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The primary aim of this study is to delve into the causes of occupational stress and burnout amongst administrative staff members in Pakistani universities. It does so by employing a qualitative research strategy, offering a comprehensive understanding of the issue.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a qualitative research strategy to examine the causes of occupational stress and burnout amongst administrative staff members in Pakistani universities. Around 20 semi-structured interviews were conducted via Teams with administrative employees in renowned universities in Rawalpindi, Islamabad and the Lahore region of Pakistan. Saldana's (2014) structured inductive data analysis method was used to analyse the collected data.

Findings

The study sheds light on the harsh realities faced by university administrative staff in Pakistani universities. These include top management ineffectiveness, role ambiguity, role conflict, favouritism, inequality, a communication gap with higher authorities, disparity of rewards and recognition, no career paths and opportunities, feeble leadership, corruption, inappropriate use of power, mishandling of qualified staff and non-acceptance of shifting roles from administration to academia. These are not just academic concepts but real-life challenges that demand immediate attention.

Originality/value

The study's findings have significant implications for Pakistan's Ministry of Education. Based on these findings, the recommendations proposed can serve as a roadmap for enhancing interpersonal development, implementing career development programmes, succession planning and supporting university administrative staff. These initiatives can lay the groundwork for achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goal-4 targets, making this research a valuable resource for policymakers.
“Intellectual accidents in a critical perspective: the challenges of stuttering lecturers using digital technology in distance learning”
Authors: Rosa Silvia , Bahri Susila , Suryani Nilma , Yustina Luli Sari
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study investigates lecturers’ challenges in guiding students’ final scientific work online during the COVID-19 pandemic. It explores the impact of lecturers’ digital technology proficiency on the students’ ability to compile their thoughts and produce scientific work independently.

Design/methodology/approach

The study involved 45 lecturers and 140 students. Data was collected through online surveys using the Google Forms application and focus group discussions. The data were analysed qualitatively and interpretively based on the surveys and interviews.

Findings

The findings reveal three modes of mentoring: online, mixed, and offline. Many lecturers’ reluctance to use digital technology for mentoring stems from their lack of proficiency, resulting in mixed mentoring methods. This digital inadequacy affects students’ ability to write scientific work independently, as they are not accustomed to self-directed learning. The pandemic has necessitated more independent work from students, with limited physical guidance from lecturers, leading to a decline in the quality of scientific writing.

Originality/value

This paper contains the latest information related to students' scientific writing activities. Student scientific writing activities are disrupted because supervisors do not have the skills to use technology in the remote student mentoring process. Lecturers are not skilled at using technology in carrying out online tutoring assignments.
“We have to fight for our existence in the system”: exploring service providers’ experiences with male victims and female perpetrators of intimate partner violence
Authors: Pisano Giulia , Widanaralalage B. Kennath , Willmott Dominic
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the experiences of service providers supporting male victims and female perpetrators of intimate partner violence (IPV). The study explored the drivers, methods and treatments of female-perpetrated IPV, the nature and impact of abuse towards male victims, the barriers and facilitators to service provision and the impact on the practitioners themselves.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a qualitative approach, using reflexive thematic analysis to analyse semi-structured interviews with 13 experienced service providers.

Findings

Two overarching themes were identified: systemic issues in service provision, including challenges with multi-agency approaches, funding and availability of services and the impact on practitioners; and gender stereotypes, which created barriers to male victims' help-seeking and influenced the treatment of female perpetrators.

Practical implications

The findings suggest the need for a multi-level approach, addressing gendered inequalities in IPV policy and funding, implementing gender-inclusive, evidence-based and trauma-informed practices, and raising public and professional awareness to challenge the dominant “domestic violence stereotype”.

Originality/value

This study provides a detailed, in-depth exploration of the experiences of service providers supporting “non-typical” populations in IPV, revealing the complex, multi-faceted challenges they face within a system that is inherently designed to support female victims of male perpetrators.
Effects of Israel-Iran conflict: insights on global stock indices and currencies
Authors: Pandey Dharen Kumar
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study examines the immediate impact of the Israel-Iran conflict on global stock markets and currency pairs, focusing on how these effects vary by market maturity and geographic region.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses the event study method to examine the immediate effect of the Israel-Iran conflict. It uses the market model across a 252-day estimation window through −257, −6 trading days and an 11-day event window through −5, +5 trading days. The primary sample includes 73 stock market indices, 7 EURO currency pairs, 14 USD currency pairs, 6 GBP currency pairs, and 7 JPY currency pairs.

Findings

The findings suggest that (1) the global stock markets are adversely affected by the Israel-Iran conflict, (2) the JPY, GBP, and EURO currency pairs are least affected, (3) the USD currency pairs exhibit positive abnormal returns suggesting flight to safety, (4) the frontier and standalone markets experience most adverse effects, followed by developed and emerging markets, (5) the pan-American stock markets experience more pronounced effects of the conflict, followed by the Europe, Middle East, and African stock markets and the Asia Pacific stock markets.

Research limitations/implications

The findings advise investors to manage risk during geopolitical uncertainty through diversification and hedging. Policymakers should monitor developments and enact responsive measures. Market participants can capitalize on insights for strategic investment.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the extant war literature by exploring the impact of the Israel-Iran conflict on global stock markets and currency pairs. This study serves as the first to examine the effects of the escalating conflict due to Iran’s attack on Israel.
Green synergy: unveiling the nexus of green supply chain practices, training and innovation for sustainable manufacturing
Authors: Javed Asma , Li Qian , Ejaz Sarmad , Basit Abdul , Hasan Shermeen , Zita Júlia Fodor , Hossain Md Billal
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Due to extensive industrial activities, the manufacturing sector is deteriorating the environment through resource depletion and rising pollution levels which led to a significant transition toward green supply chain practices (GSCP). Therefore, internal and external GSCP and green training (GT) gaining momentous attention. This study aims to explore the interconnections among the internal and external GSCP, GT, green innovation (GI), pro-environmental behavior (PEB), competitive advantage (CA), green knowledge sharing (GKS), green self-efficacy (GSE), environmental and financial performance (EP) and (FP).

Design/methodology/approach

To check the hypothesized model, researchers used cross-sectional data based on survey questionnaires which were gathered from Pakistani manufacturing firms. The theoretical framework was validated through the utilization of partial least square structural equation modeling.

Findings

The findings suggest that internal and external GSCP and GT are correlated with GI, PEB, CA, EP and FP. Additionally, this study discovers that PEB and GI act as intermediaries among internal and external GSCP, GT and CA. GKS positively moderates the connection among internal and external GSCP, and GT, GI, and PEB. Similarly, GSE also serves as a moderator among between PEB and GI.

Research limitations/implications

This study is a significant contribution to the literature by studying potential mediators and moderators that improve the association among outlined constructs. Moreover, findings suggest that firms should adopt an integrated and holistic green approach to combat environmental deterioration, maintain environmental integrity and attain sustainable development.

Originality/value

There is a scarcity of studies concerning the holistic framework of interrelated constructs studied in this research and it is the pioneer research to offer insights with an innovative model and empirical evidence.
Restoration of a wet corrosion-resistant composite filament for material extrusion process
Authors: Bove Alessandro , Lieske Fulvio , Calignano Flaviana , Iuliano Luca
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Material extrusion (MEX) is one of the most known techniques in the additive manufacturing (AM) sector to produce components with a wide range of polymeric and composite materials. Moisture causes alterations in material properties and for filaments strongly hygroscopic like nylon-based composites this means greater ease of deterioration. Drying the filament to reduce the moisture content may not be sufficient if the humidity is not controlled during printing. The purpose of this study is to achieve the recovery of a commercial nylon-based composite filament by applying process optimization using an open source MEX machine.

Design/methodology/approach

A statistical approach based on Taguchi’s method allowed to achieve an ultimate tensile strength (UTS). A verification of the geometrical capabilities of the process has been performed according to the standard ISO/ASTM 52902-2019. Chemical tests were also carried out to test the resistance to corrosion in acid and basic solutions.

Findings

An UTS of 71.37 MPa was obtained, significantly higher than the value declared by the filament’s manufacturer (Stratasys Inc., USA). The best configuration of process parameters leads to good geometrical deviations for flat surfaces, in a range of 0.01 and 0.38 for flatness, while cylindrical faces showed more important deviations from the nominal values. The good applicability of the material in corrosive environments has been confirmed.

Originality/value

This study examined the performance restoration potential of a nylon composite filament that was significantly affected by storage conditions. For the filament manufacturer, if the material remains in ambient air for an hour or idle in the machine for more than 24 h, the material may no longer be suitable for printing. The study highlighted that the drying of the filament must not be temporary but constant to guarantee printability, and, by acting on the process parameters, it is possible to obtain better mechanical properties than declared by the manufacturer.
Nudge or mandate: an exploration into the constraints of volumetric modular construction in Australia
Authors: Khan Ayaz Ahmad , Yu Rongrong , Liu Tingting , Gu Ning , Walsh James , Mohandes Saeed Reza
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To incentivize innovation, support competitiveness, lower skill scarcities, and alleviate the housing affordability difficulty, proponents underscore the pertinence of embracing contemporary construction methodologies, with particular emphasis on volumetric modular construction (VMC) as a sustainable paradigm for production and consumption. However, construction industry stakeholders in Australia have encountered profound challenges in adopting VMC, as its adoption remains significantly low. Therefore, this study investigated the constraints that hinder VMC in the Australian construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used qualitative methodology using semi-structured interviews as a core approach to glean professional experts' perspectives and insights, along with Pareto and mean index score analyses.

Findings

The study identified 77 reported and validated VMC constraints by professionals, categorizing them into eight categories: cultural, economic, knowledge, market, regulatory, stakeholder, supply chain, and technological. The mean index score analysis reveals stakeholder (µ = 9.67) constraints are the most significant, followed by cultural (µ = 9.62) and regulatory (µ = 9.11) constraints. Pareto analysis revealed 25 of the 77 constraints as ‘vital few” among different categories. This study presented causal relationships and mitigation strategies for VMC constraints, followed by an argument on whether VMC adoption in Australia requires a nudge or mandate.

Practical implications

This study offers guidance for efficient resource allocation, aiding management and government policy formulation. It's also valuable for global audiences, especially countries transitioning to modular construction.

Originality/value

This is one of the first studies to identify VMC constraints and delineate them into different categories in Australia, identify their causal interrelationships, and deliver countermeasures to overcome them.
Understanding cryptocurrency investment behaviour in Jordan: an examination of motivational drivers through the lens of the UTAUT2 model
Authors: Alzyoud Sultan , Alshurafat Hashem , Khatatbeh Ibrahim N.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the factors affecting investment behaviour in cryptocurrencies among Jordanian investors. Specifically, it aims to assess how various motivational and behavioural drivers impact the intention to use cryptocurrencies, grounded in the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2) framework. The choice of Jordan as the research context is particularly relevant due to the lack of adequate regulations on cryptocurrency investment.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a quantitative research approach, using an online survey as the primary method for data collection. The final data set consists of 285 responses collected through a self-administered questionnaire to cryptocurrency users in Jordan. Next, structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to test the developed theoretical framework based on the UTAUT2 model.

Findings

The findings reveal that performance expectancy, trust, hedonic motivation and price value significantly enhance the intention to invest in cryptocurrencies, with performance expectancy acting as a mediator. Effort expectancy is not directly related to behavioural intention; however, it positively impacts performance expectancy, validating the mediation hypothesis. Trust affects both the intention to use and the performance expectancy, reinforcing its role as a mediator in cryptocurrency adoption. Hedonic motivation and price value also positively affect the intention to use cryptocurrency. In contrast, social influence and facilitating conditions do not significantly impact behavioural intention, suggesting that cryptocurrency adoption decisions are less influenced by external opinions or the availability of necessary conditions. The findings also show that the demographic profiles of the cryptocurrency users were young, educated males, which suggests a demographic skew in cryptocurrency usage in Jordan.

Originality/value

This study innovatively adapts the UTAUT2 model, focusing on the mediating role of performance expectancy between effort expectancy, trust, and behavioural intention. This study pioneers by examining the mediation effect of performance expectancy, showing how users' ease in using cryptocurrencies positively affects their belief in positive outcomes, subsequently influencing their behavioural intention to use cryptocurrencies. Moreover, this study sheds light on the factors driving cryptocurrency adoption in developing countries like Jordan. It also underscores the demographic trends in cryptocurrency use and proposes targeted recommendations for policymakers and cryptocurrency platforms to foster more inclusive and informed investment environments.
A novel framework for understanding the interplay between the mobile wallet service quality dimensions and loyalty intention
Authors: Kapoor Ashwarya , Sindwani Rajiv , Goel Manisha
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Is there any symmetric or asymmetric connection between mobile wallet service quality (MWSQ) dimensions and loyalty intention? Are there any factors that intervene in the relationship between MWSQ and loyalty intention? To answer these questions, the present study explored dimensions of MWSQ and proposed a novel framework to comprehend symmetric and asymmetric relationship between MWSQ dimensions and loyalty intention.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used data from 422 m-wallet users. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to investigate the impact of MWSQ dimensions (reliability, security, responsiveness, practicity and design) on loyalty intention. Furthermore, fuzzy sets qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) has also been applied to understand the complex, non-linear and synergistic effects of MWSQ dimensions on brand loyalty that SEM failed to reveal.

Findings

Using structural equation modeling (SEM) and fuzzy sets qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA), current study revealed three major findings. First, except for practicity and design, results revealed a significant positive impact of MWSQ dimensions (reliability, security and responsiveness) on loyalty intention. Second, the study found that association between MWSQ dimensions (reliability, security and responsiveness) and loyalty intention was partially mediated by two parallel mediators namely brand image and brand satisfaction. Third, fsQCA uncovered asymmetric, synergistic and non-linear effects of MWSQ dimensions on loyalty intention that SEM failed to reveal. It revealed six sufficient conditions for determining low and high loyalty intention. Predictive validity has been also tested to determine accuracy of fsQCA results.

Practical implications

For practitioners, the proposed model is helpful as it will facilitate them in taking an edge over competitors by emphasising on key MWSQ dimensions. It will enable them to frame effective strategies for increasing market share and customer retention.

Originality/value

It is among the pioneer studies which explored the service quality dimensions of m-wallet, and used combination of both quantitative and qualitative techniques to propose an integrated framework for m-wallet service quality.
Effects of CO2 elevation on life‐history traits of two insecticide‐resistant strains of planthopper Nilaparvata lugens on rice
Authors: Li Hongran , Wu Shanshan , Liu Jing , Chen Yong , Meng Ling , Li Baoping
Published: July 2024

We made separate experiments to examine life‐history traits and activities of protective enzymes as affected by carbon dioxide (CO2) elevation to 780 μL/L as compared to 390 μL/L in imidacloprid‐ or buprofezin‐resistant strains of the brown planthopper (BPH) Nilaparvata lugens. We found an interaction effect between resistance and the CO2 level on the nymphal survival and duration in both resistant strains. Nymphal durations in both resistant strains were much shorter in the resistant than susceptible BPH at 780 μL/L but similar between them or slightly shorter in the resistant than susceptible BPH at 390 μL/L. Nymphal survival was lower for imidacloprid‐resistant than its susceptible BPH at 390 μL/L but higher at 780 μL/L; it stayed unaffected by the CO2 elevation in buprofezin‐resistant BPH. We did not observe an interaction effect between resistance and the CO2 level on major reproductive parameters in both resistant strains. But the 2 strains were not consistent across CO2 levels in all parameters. Our measurements of protective enzyme activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and peroxidase showed an interaction between resistance and the CO2 level. Overall, these enzymes became similar in activity between resistant and susceptible BPH at 780 μL/L compared to 390 μL/L and the change was more distinct in the imidacloprid‐ than buprofezin‐resistant BPH strains. Our findings suggest that CO2 elevation can affect life‐history traits of insecticide‐resistant BPH, while the effect may vary depending on the kind of insecticides it is resistant to.
Machine learning‐based prediction of vancomycin concentration after abdominal administration in patients with peritoneal dialysis‐related peritonitis
Authors: Lv Bo , Liu Wenxiu , Lu Ying , Wang Zhi , Shi Aiming
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Peritonitis is a serious complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD), in which insufficient control of antibacterial drug concentrations poses a significant risk for poor outcomes. Predicting antibacterial drug concentrations is crucial in clinical practice. The limitations imposed by compartment models have presented a considerable challenge.

Methods

In this study, we employed machine learning as model‐free methods to circumvent the constraints of compartment models. We collected data from 68 observations from 38 patients with peritoneal dialysis‐related peritonitis who were treated with vancomycin from the EHR system. This data included information about drug administration, demographic details, and experimental indicators as predictors. We constructed models using Genetic Adaptive Supporting Vector Regression (GA‐SVR), KNN‐regression, GBM, XGBoost, and a stacking ensemble model. Additionally, we used RMSE loss and partial‐dependence profiles to elucidate the effects of these predictors.

Results

GA‐SVAR outperformed other large‐scale models. In 10‐fold cross‐validation, the RMSE ratio and R‐squared values for direct concentration prediction were 23.5% and 0.633, respectively. The ROC AUC for predicting concentrations below 15 and exceeding 20 μg/mL were 0.890 and 0.948, respectively. Notably, the most influential predictors included times of drug administration and weight. These predictors were also influenced by residual kidney function.

Conclusion

To assist in controlling vancomycin concentrations for patients with PD‐related peritonitis in clinical practice, we developed GA‐SVR and a corresponding explainer model. Our study improves the controlling of vancomycin in clinical settings by enhancing our understanding of vancomycin concentration in patients with PD‐related peritonitis.
Auditors’ Sensemaking During Crises: The Case of the COVID‐19 Pandemic in Italian Local Public Administrations
Authors: Caramia Simona , Ruggiero Pasquale , Mussari Riccardo
Published: July 2024

Crises such as COVID‐19 cause uncertainty that intensifies the pressure on public sector auditors, prompting them to question their established practices and routines. At the same time, stakeholders demand higher levels of assurance of public spending during crises. Using sensemaking as a theoretical framework, our paper explores how auditors changed the way they perform auditing activities in response to the uncertainty and instability stemming from the COVID‐19 crisis. Our qualitative survey of auditors of Italian municipalities shows that before the crisis auditors focused on compliance; however, in the face of time and information shortcomings as a result of the crisis, auditors collaborated more with municipalities. After the crisis, in an attempt to reclaim independence, auditors withdrew collaboration. At the same time, they imagined a different future in which they would implement auditing processes in a way that made clear their independence. The paper contributes to the literature on auditing by shedding light on how auditors make sense of their role and the activities performed during the main phases of crises. Moreover, it advances theoretical understanding by elucidating how sensemaking processes are developed throughout the main phases of a crisis. At a practical level, this study may help auditors envisage how to adjust their roles and activities at times of crisis in ways that maintain high audit quality levels.
Snails of ‘sky islands’ above an equatorial desert: Terrestrial molluscs on four isolated mountain ranges in northern Kenya
Authors: Rowson Ben , Seddon Mary B. , Tattersfield Peter , Lange Charles N.
Published: July 2024

The mountains of northern Kenya (Ndoto, Nyiro, Kulal and Marsabit) are separated by semi‐arid plains uninhabitable for most terrestrial molluscs (snails and slugs). Nevertheless, each “sky island” supports a little‐known forest mollusc fauna. The diversity and endemism of these faunas are addressed here based on surveys and the limited records available in the literature. In total 75 forest mollusc species and subspecies were found, including six previously undescribed Streptaxidae and many first records. Most previously recorded taxa were refound. The richness of faunas is broadly comparable to that of other Kenyan forests surveyed using similar methods (Ndoto 41 taxa, Nyiro 40, Kulal 33, Marsabit 34). A large proportion of the forest taxa (24 taxa, 29%) are endemic to Kenya north of the Mathews Range. More than half of these (14 taxa, 17% of the total) are known only from a single mountain range. At Nyiro, where different forest types were compared, fewer endemic species were found in Juniper forest than in other forest types. Moving northwards along the Ndoto‐Nyiro‐Kulal chain, diversity declines while endemism increases, perhaps reflecting increasing isolation from the southern forests, but the trends are not significant when Marsabit is included. Across the four ranges, neither diversity nor endemism is clearly linked to the isolation, maximum elevation, forest cover or geological origin of each range (Kulal and Marsabit are volcanoes, while Nyiro and Ndoto are uplifted basement rock). Instead, the unique circumstances of each range create a distinctive set of isolated faunas.
Biomarker Identification for Preterm Birth Susceptibility: Vaginal Microbiome Meta‐Analysis Using Systems Biology and Machine Learning Approaches
Authors: Kulshrestha Sudeepti , Narad Priyanka , Singh Brojen , Pai Somnath S. , Vijayaraghavan Pooja , Tandon Ansh , Gupta Payal , Modi Deepak , Sengupta Abhishek
Published: July 2024

Problem

The vaginal microbiome has a substantial role in the occurrence of preterm birth (PTB), which contributes substantially to neonatal mortality worldwide. However, current bioinformatics approaches mostly concentrate on the taxonomic classification and functional profiling of the microbiome, limiting their abilities to elucidate the complex factors that contribute to PTB.

Method of study

A total of 3757 vaginal microbiome 16S rRNA samples were obtained from five publicly available datasets. The samples were divided into two categories based on pregnancy outcome: preterm birth (PTB) (N = 966) and term birth (N = 2791). Additionally, the samples were further categorized based on the participants’ race and trimester. The 16S rRNA reads were subjected to taxonomic classification and functional profiling using the Parallel‐META 3 software in Ubuntu environment. The obtained abundances were analyzed using an integrated systems biology and machine learning approach to determine the key microbes, pathways, and genes that contribute to PTB. The resulting features were further subjected to statistical analysis to identify the top nine features with the greatest effect sizes.

Results

We identified nine significant features, namely Shuttleworthia, Megasphaera, Sneathia, proximal tubule bicarbonate reclamation pathway, systemic lupus erythematosus pathway, transcription machinery pathway, lepA gene, pepX gene, and rpoD gene. Their abundance variations were observed through the trimesters.

Conclusions

Vaginal infections caused by Shuttleworthia, Megasphaera, and Sneathia and altered small metabolite biosynthesis pathways such as lipopolysaccharide folate and retinal may increase the susceptibility to PTB. The identified organisms, genes, pathways, and their networks may be specifically targeted for the treatment of bacterial infections that increase PTB risk.
Chinese state media persuades a global audience that the “China model” is superior: Evidence from a 19‐country experiment
Authors: Mattingly Daniel , Incerti Trevor , Ju Changwook , Moreshead Colin , Tanaka Seiki , Yamagishi Hikaru
Published: July 2024

Many are skeptical of the appeal of authoritarian political systems. We argue that global audiences will embrace authoritarian models when they believe that autocracies can meet governance challenges better than democracies. We collect comprehensive data on the external messaging of the Chinese and American governments. We then conduct a randomized experiment in 19 countries across six continents exposing global citizens to real messages from the Chinese and American governments’ external media arms. We find that exposure to a representative set of Chinese messages strengthens perceptions that the Chinese Communist Party delivers growth, stability, and competent leadership. It also moves the average respondent from slightly preferring the American model to slightly preferring the Chinese model. In head‐to‐head matchups, messages from the US government are less persuasive. Our findings show how autocracies build global support by selling growth and competence, with important implications for democratic resilience.
Elucidating allergic reaction mechanisms in response to SARS‐CoV‐2 mRNA vaccination in adults
Authors: Shah Mihir M. , Layhadi Janice A. , Hourcade Dennis E. , Fulton William T. , Tan Tiak Ju , Dunham Diane , Chang Iris , Vel Monica S. , Fernandes Andrea , Lee Alexandra S. , Liu James , Arunachalam Prabhu S. , Galli Stephen J. , Boyd Scott D. , Pulendran Bali , Davis Mark M. , O'Hara Ruth , Park Helen , Mitchell Lynne M. , Akk Antonina , Patterson Alexander , Jerath Maya R. , Monroy Jennifer M. , Ren Zhen , Kendall Peggy L. , Durham Stephen R. , Fedina Aleksandra , Gibbs Bernhard F. , Agache Ioana , Chinthrajah Sharon , Sindher Sayantani B. , Heider Anja , Akdis Cezmi A. , Shamji Mohamed H. , Pham Christine T. N. , Nadeau Kari C.
Published: July 2024

Background

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, novel nanoparticle‐based mRNA vaccines were developed. A small number of individuals developed allergic reactions to these vaccines although the mechanisms remain undefined.

Methods

To understand COVID‐19 vaccine‐mediated allergic reactions, we enrolled 19 participants who developed allergic events within 2 h of vaccination and 13 controls, nonreactors. Using standard hemolysis assays, we demonstrated that sera from allergic participants induced stronger complement activation compared to nonallergic subjects following ex vivo vaccine exposure.

Results

Vaccine‐mediated complement activation correlated with anti‐polyethelyne glycol (PEG) IgG (but not IgM) levels while anti‐PEG IgE was undetectable in all subjects. Depletion of total IgG suppressed complement activation in select individuals. To investigate the effects of vaccine excipients on basophil function, we employed a validated indirect basophil activation test that stratified the allergic populations into high and low responders. Complement C3a and C5a receptor blockade in this system suppressed basophil response, providing strong evidence for complement involvement in vaccine‐mediated basophil activation. Single‐cell multiome analysis revealed differential expression of genes encoding the cytokine response and Toll‐like receptor (TLR) pathways within the monocyte compartment. Differential chromatin accessibility for IL‐13 and IL‐1B genes was found in allergic and nonallergic participants, suggesting that in vivo, epigenetic modulation of mononuclear phagocyte immunophenotypes determines their subsequent functional responsiveness, contributing to the overall physiologic manifestation of vaccine reactions.

Conclusion

These findings provide insights into the mechanisms underlying allergic reactions to COVID‐19 mRNA vaccines, which may be used for future vaccine strategies in individuals with prior history of allergies or reactions and reduce vaccine hesitancy.
Forest habitat diversity in the Cantabrian Mixed Forests ecoregion (NW Iberian Peninsula), a climatic refugium in western Europe
Authors: González‐García Víctor , Fernández‐Pascual Eduardo , Font Xavier , Jiménez‐Alfaro Borja
Published: July 2024

Aims

(i) To classify forest habitat diversity in the Cantabrian Mixed Forests ecoregion, a putative biodiversity refugium in Western Europe, and (ii) to evaluate how the distribution of functional and ecological habitat types is explained by climatic drivers.

Location

Cantabrian Mixed Forests ecoregion (northwestern Iberian Peninsula).

Methods

We compiled a vegetation database for the ecoregion using data stored in the Iberian and Macaronesian Vegetation Information System (SIVIM). Then, we used the EUNIS Habitat Classification expert system, the modified Two‐Way Indicator Species Analysis (TWINSPAN) and the semi‐supervised k‐means classification to classify all Forest plots into regionalised EUNIS habitat types. We determined the environmental space of each ecological forest type with bioclimatic and soil variables, and computed principal components analysis (PCA), generalised linear models (GLMs) and PERMANOVA to evaluate climatic differences among forests.

Results

We identified 24 ecological forest habitat types (12 broadleaved deciduous, seven broadleaved evergreen and five coniferous), whose regional distribution is mainly driven by the oceanic influence and the amount and seasonality of annual precipitation. Most forest types had a specific climatic optimum, but there were also climatic overlaps in habitats traditionally favoured by human activities.

Conclusions

The Cantabrian Mixed Forests ecoregion is a hotspot of forest diversity within the temperate deciduous forest biome in Europe, including multiple functional and ecological forest types. Such forest diversity is explained by present macro‐ and mesoclimatic heterogeneity, Pleistocene refugia, and the legacy of human intervention during the Holocene.
Subsidiarity and the logic of gift in business
Authors: Schlag Martin , Rocchi Marta
Published: July 2024

This article is the editorial introduction to the special issue “Subsidiarity and the Logic of Gift in Business.” It provides a conceptual overview of subsidiarity and the logic of gift in business and society and it introduces the five essays that compose the special issue. This introduction and the five essays open new perspectives on subsidiarity, a principle that enables people, organizations, and society to address different needs at the appropriate level, working to achieve human flourishing, and the common good.
The stimulant cathine from Khat causes tachycardia indirectly in the rat
Authors: Alsufyani Hadeel A.
Published: July 2024

Leaves of the Khat plant are widely consumed in the Horn of Africa, Yemen and the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia. I have investigated the mode of cardiovascular and autonomic actions of the stimulant cathine from Khat in terms of direct or indirect adrenergic actions in anaesthetised male and female rats, and in isolated tissues. Male and female rats were anaesthetised with pentobarbitone and changes in diastolic blood pressure and cardioaccelerator responses were examined in vehicle‐treated or chemically sympathectomised rats. Cathine produced marked tachycardia and smaller blood pressure responses in vehicle‐treated animals, with significant rises in heart rate occurring at cathine (0.1 mg/kg). In sympathectomised rats, cardiac actions were greatly attenuated in both male and female animals, with no differences between male and female rats. Although pressor responses to cathine were relatively small, sympathectomy significantly reduced these responses in female, but not male, rats. In rat aorta and spleen, cathine produced almost no direct contractions. It is concluded that cathine acts predominantly indirectly, presumably by the release of noradrenaline, in both male and female rats to produce cardiovascular actions. This may have implications for adverse cardiovascular actions of consumption of the plant Khat, particularly with dried Khat, in which actions of cathine may predominate over those of cathinone.
Interim PET‐guided ABVD or ABVD/escalated BEACOPP for newly diagnosed advanced‐stage classic Hodgkin lymphoma (JCOG1305)
Authors: Kusumoto Shigeru , Munakata Wataru , Machida Ryunosuke , Terauchi Takashi , Onaya Hiroaki , Oguchi Masahiko , Iida Shinsuke , Nosaka Kisato , Suzuki Yasuhiro , Harada Yasuhiko , Miyazaki Kana , Maruta Masaki , Fukuhara Noriko , Toubai Tomomi , Kubota Nobuko , Ohmachi Ken , Saito Toko , Rai Shinya , Mizuno Ishikazu , Fukuhara Suguru , Takeuchi Mai , Tateishi Ukihide , Maruyama Dai , Tsukasaki Kunihiro , Nagai Hirokazu
Published: July 2024

This single‐arm confirmatory study (JCOG1305) aimed to evaluate the utility of interim positron emission tomography (iPET)‐guided therapy for newly diagnosed advanced‐stage classic Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL). Patients aged 16–60 years with cHL received two cycles of doxorubicin, bleomycin, vinblastine, and dacarbazine (ABVD) and then underwent an iPET scan (PET2), which was centrally reviewed using a five‐point Deauville scale. PET2‐negative patients continued an additional four cycles of ABVD, whereas PET2‐positive patients switched to six cycles of escalated bleomycin, etoposide, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, procarbazine, and prednisone (eBEACOPP). The co‐primary endpoints were 2‐year progression‐free survival (PFS) among all eligible and PET2‐positive patients. Ninety‐three patients were enrolled between January 2016 and December 2019. One patient was ineligible because of a diagnostic error. The median age of the 92 eligible patients was 35 (interquartile range, 28–48) years. Forty (43%) patients had stage III disease, and 43 (47%) had stage IV disease. The remaining nine (10%) patients had stage IIB disease with risk factors. Nineteen PET2‐positive (21%) patients received eBEACOPP, 18 completed six cycles of eBEACOPP, 73 PET2‐negative (79%) patients continued ABVD, and 70 completed an additional four cycles of ABVD. With a median follow‐up period of 41.1 months, the 2‐year PFS of 92 eligible patients and 19 PET2‐positive patients were 84.8% (80% confidence interval [CI], 79.2–88.9) and 84.2% (80% CI, 69.7–92.1), respectively. Both primary endpoints were met at the prespecified threshold. This study demonstrates that iPET‐guided therapy is a useful treatment option for younger patients with newly diagnosed advanced‐stage cHL. Registration number: jRCTs031180218.
Donor Atheromatous Disease is a Risk Factor for Hepatic Artery Thrombosis After Liver Transplantation
Authors: Zamora‐Olaya Javier M. , Tejero‐Jurado Rocío , Alañón‐Martínez Paloma E. , Prieto‐Torre María , Rodríguez‐Medina Cristina , Montero José L. , Sánchez‐Frías Marina , Briceño Javier , Ciria Rubén , Barrera Pilar , Poyato Antonio , De la Mata Manuel , Rodríguez‐Perálvarez Manuel L.
Published: July 2024

The increasing age of liver donors and transplant candidates, together with the growing prevalence of metabolic comorbidities, could impact the risk of vascular complications after liver transplantation. We enrolled a consecutive cohort of adult patients undergoing liver transplantation from 2012 to 2021 who had a blinded pathological assessment of atherosclerosis in the donor and recipient hepatic arteries (HA). Patients receiving partial or reduced grafts, retransplantation, or combined organ transplantation were excluded. The relationship between HA atherosclerosis and HA thrombosis after liver transplantation was evaluated using logistic regression in the whole study cohort and in a propensity score‐matched subpopulation. Among 443 eligible patients, 272 had a full pathological evaluation of the donor and recipient HA and were included in the study. HA atheroma was present in 51.5% of donors and in 11.4% of recipients. HA thrombosis occurred in 16 patients (5.9%), being more likely in patients who received a donor with HA atherosclerosis than in those without (10.7% vs. 0.8%; p < 0.001). Donor HA atherosclerosis was an independent risk factor of HA thrombosis (OR = 17.79; p = 0.008), and this finding was consistent in the propensity score‐matched analysis according to age, sex, complex arterial anastomosis, and alcoholic liver disease (OR = 19.29; p = 0.007). Atheromatous disease in the recipient had no influence on the risk of HA thrombosis (OR = 1.70; p = 0.55). In conclusion, patients receiving donors with HA atherosclerosis are at increased risk for HA thrombosis after liver transplantation. The evaluation of the donor graft vasculature could guide antiplatelet therapy in the postoperative period.