bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and Evaluation of an NTM-IGRA to Guide Pediatric Lymphadenitis Diagnosis
Authors: Villar-Hernández Raquel , Latorre Irene , Noguera-Julian Antoni , Martínez-Planas Aina , Minguell Laura , Vallmanya Teresa , Méndez María , Soriano-Arandes Antoni , Baquero-Artigao Fernando , Rodríguez-Molino Paula , Guillén-Martín Sara , Toro-Rueda Carlos , De Souza-Galvão M Luiza , Jiménez-Fuentes M Ángeles , Stojanovic Zoran , Sabriá Josefina , Santos José Ramón , Puig Jordi , Domínguez-Álvarez Marisol , Millet Joan-Pau , Altet Neus , Galea Yolanda , Muriel-Moreno Beatriz , García-García Esther , Bach-Griera Marc , Prat-Aymerich Cristina , Julián Esther , Torrelles Jordi B. , Rodrigo Carlos , Domínguez José
Published: December 2023

Background:

Diagnosis of nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) infections remains a challenge. In this study, we describe the evaluation of an immunological NTM-interferon (IFN)-γ release assay (IGRA) that we developed using glycopeptidolipids (GPLs) as NTM-specific antigens.

Methods:

We tested the NTM-IGRA in 99 samples from pediatric patients. Seventy-five were patients with lymphadenitis: 25 were NTM confirmed, 45 were of unknown etiology but compatible with mycobacterial infection and 5 had lymphadenitis caused by an etiologic agent other than NTM. The remaining 24 samples were from control individuals without lymphadenitis (latently infected with M. tuberculosis, uninfected controls and active tuberculosis patients). Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were stimulated overnight with GPLs. Detection of IFN-γ producing cells was evaluated by enzyme-linked immunospot assay.

Results:

NTM culture-confirmed lymphadenitis patient samples had a significantly higher response to GPLs than the patients with lymphadenitis of unknown etiology but compatible with mycobacterial infection (P < 0.001) and lymphadenitis not caused by NTM (P < 0.01). We analyzed the response against GPLs in samples from unknown etiology lymphadenitis but compatible with mycobacterial infection cases according to the tuberculin skin test (TST) response, and although not statistically significant, those with a TST ≥5 mm had a higher response to GPLs when compared with the TST <5 mm group.

Conclusions:

Stimulation with GPLs yielded promising results in detecting NTM infection in pediatric patients with lymphadenitis. Our results indicate that the test could be useful to guide the diagnosis of pediatric lymphadenitis. This new NTM-IGRA could improve the clinical handling of NTM-infected patients and avoid unnecessary misdiagnosis and treatments.
Health Care Resource Utilization and Costs Associated With COVID-19 Among Pediatrics Managed in the Community or Hospital Setting in England: A Population-based Cohort Study
Authors: Yang Jingyan , Andersen Kathleen M. , Rai Kiran K. , Tritton Theo , Mugwagwa Tendai , Tsang Carmen , Reimbaeva Maya , McGrath Leah J. , Payne Poppy , Backhouse Bethany , Mendes Diana , Butfield Rebecca , Wood Robert , Nguyen Jennifer L.
Published: December 2023

Background:

Although COVID-19 morbidity is significantly lower in pediatrics than in adults, the risk of severe COVID-19 may still pose substantial health care resource burden. This study aimed to describe health care resource utilization (HCRU) and costs associated with COVID-19 in pediatrics 1–17 years old in England.

Methods:

A population-based retrospective cohort study of pediatrics with COVID-19 using Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD Aurum) primary care data and, where available, linked Hospital Episode Statistics Admitted Patient Care secondary care data. HCRU and associated costs to the National Health Service were stratified by age, risk of severe COVID-19 and immunocompromised status, separately for those with and without hospitalization records (hospitalized cohort: COVID-19 diagnosis August 2020–March 2021; primary care cohort: COVID-19 diagnosis August 2020–January 2022).

Results:

This study included 564,644 patients in the primary care cohort and 60 in the hospitalized cohort. Primary care consultations were more common in those 1–4 years of age (face-to-face: 4.3%; telephone: 6.0%) compared with those 5–11 (2.0%; 2.1%) and 12–17 years of age (2.2%; 2.5%). In the hospitalized cohort, mean (SD) length of stay was longer [5.0 (5.8) days] among those 12–17 years old (n = 24) than those 1–4 [n = 15; 1.8 (0.9) days] and 5–11 years old [n = 21; 2.8 (2.1) days].

Conclusions:

Most pediatrics diagnosed with COVID-19 were managed in the community. However, hospitalizations were an important driver of HCRU and costs, particularly for those 12–17 years old. Our results may help optimize the management and resource allocation of COVID-19 in this population.
Chronic overlapping pain conditions increase the risk of long COVID features, regardless of acute COVID status
Authors: Bergmans Rachel S. , Clauw Daniel J. , Flint Candace , Harris Herb , Lederman Seth , Schrepf Andrew
Published: December 2023

Chronic overlapping pain conditions (COPCs) refer to conditions that have similar central nervous system pathophysiologic mechanisms driving widespread pain as well as common comorbid symptoms such as fatigue and problems with sleep, memory, and mood. If COPCs predict the onset of long COVID, this could offer a valuable orientation for long COVID-related research and clinical care. This retrospective cohort study aimed to determine whether having a COPC predicts the onset of long COVID features using US electronic health records and 1:1 propensity score matching without replacement. The study cohorts included (1) people with acute COVID (n = 1,038,402), (2) people with acute influenza (n = 262,092), and (3) a noninfected cohort comprising people with a routine healthcare encounter (n = 1,081,593). Having a COPC increased the risk of long COVID features in all 3 study cohorts. Among those with COVID, having a pre-existing COPC increased the risk by 1.47 (95% CI = 1.46, 1.47). In the influenza cohort, COPCs increased the risk by 1.39 (95% CI = 1.38, 1.40). In the noninfected cohort, COPCs increased the risk by 1.57 (95% CI = 1.56, 1.59). These findings reinforce the likelihood that nociplastic mechanisms play a prominent role in long COVID. Recognizing that this ubiquitous nonspecific syndrome occurs frequently in the population can inform precision medicine therapies that avoid the pitfalls of viewing long COVID exclusively in the framework of postinfectious disease.
Battling the “Imposter”
Authors: Lynn Shannon , Smith Holly , Menefee Felicia , Meyer Kristin
Published: December 2023

In the face of ever-evolving shifts in health care, the demand for advanced practice providers (APPs), including nurse practitioners and physician assistants, continues to grow as the nation faces provider shortages and increased patient complexity. Because of different educational backgrounds and previous professional experience, there is a gap in readiness for practice following completion of academic programs, leading to high rates of turnover and financial implications for health care institutions. The creation of APP fellowship programs is a strategy many health institutions implement to provide enhanced support for new graduate APPs. These programs offer fully licensed and credentialed nurse practitioners and physician assistants additional experience within medical specialty areas. The establishment and operational cost associated with an APP fellowship program is a significant barrier health systems face. This article discusses how Saint Luke's Health System developed an APP fellowship program to address these barriers. The model addresses specific fellow needs and has contributed to improved employee retention rates, increased clinical competency, and overall provider satisfaction within Saint Luke's Health System. The evolution of the model, successes, barriers, and opportunities for future program growth are discussed within this article.
Design, Implementation, and Evaluation of a Learning Needs Assessment for Nursing Professional Development Practitioners
Authors: Booth Adam T. , Robinson Kathryn L. , Walker Mandi D.
Published: December 2023

The purpose of this descriptive study was to highlight how a system-level education department operationalized the 2022 Association for Nursing Professional Development Scope and Standards of Practice into a learning needs assessment (LNA) survey. This was a collaborative approach to LNA design, implementation, and evaluation. The LNA conducted among nursing professional development practitioners determined areas for educational improvement, barriers to nursing professional development, and identified standards and competencies critical to improving knowledge acquisition.
Efficacy of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Pain Intensity and Functionality in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Comino-Suárez Natalia , Serrano-Muñoz Diego , Beltran-Alacreu Hector , Belda-Pérez Patricia , Avendaño-Coy Juan
Published: December 2023

Objective

The aim of the study is to investigate whether transcranial direct current stimulation is superior to control groups or other interventions for pain relief and improving functionality in knee osteoarthritis patients.

Methods

PubMed, the Physiotherapy Evidence Database, the Cochrane Library, ProQuest, and Scopus databases were searched from inception to July 2022 to identify randomized clinical trials. The main outcomes were subjective perception of pain intensity measured either with the visual analog scale or with the numeric rating scale; and the functionality, assessed with the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index. As secondary outcomes, pressure pain threshold, conditioned pain modulation, and its safety were evaluated.

Results

We identified 10 randomized clinical trials (634 participants). The results showed an important effect favoring transcranial direct current stimulation for pain relief (mean difference = −1.1 cm, 95% confident interval = −2.1 to −0.2) and for improving functionality (standardized mean difference = −0.6, 95% confident interval = −1.02 to −0.26). There was also a significant improvement in pressure pain threshold (mean difference = 0.9 Kgf/cm2, 95% confident interval = 0.1 to 1.6). The certainty of evidence according to Grades of Recommendation Assessment, Development and Evaluation was generally moderate.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that transcranial direct current stimulation is a safe treatment for reducing pain intensity, improving functionality, and the pressure pain thresholds in patients with knee osteoarthritis.
Marinomonas transparens sp. nov. and Marinomonas sargassi sp. nov., isolated from marine alga
Authors: Cui Ning , Zhang Yao , Fan Jiwu , Liu Xinqi , Li Yang , Zhang Xiuhua , Guan Jianyi , Li Tao , Wang Yan
Published: December 2023

Two Gram-stain-negative, rod-shaped, non-spore-forming, strictly aerobic, motile bacteria with a single polar flagellum, designated strains C1424T and C2222T, were isolated from marine alga collected from the sea shore at Yantai, PR China. Strain C1424T grew at 4–37 °C and in the presence of 1–9 % (w/v) NaCl, while strain C2222T grew at 4–32 °C with 1–6 % (w/v) NaCl. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences and concatenated amino acid sequences of 120 ubiquitous single-copy proteins showed that both strains C1424T and C2222T belonged to the genus

Marinomonas

, showing highest 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities to the type strains of

Marinomonas primoryensis

(98.1 %) and

Marinomonas dokdonensis

(98.1 %), respectively. The major fatty acids of the two strains were C18 : 1
 ω6c and/or C18 : 1
 ω7c, C16 : 1
 ω6c and/or C16 : 1
 ω7c and C16 : 0, their predominant polar lipids were phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylglycerol, and their sole respiratory quinone was Q8. On the basis of polyphasic analyses, strains C1424T and C2222T are considered to represent two novel species within the genus

Marinomonas

, for which the names Marinomonas transparens sp. nov. and Marinomonas sargassi sp. nov. are proposed. The type strains are C1424T (=KCTC 72119T=MCCC 1K03601T) and C2222T (=KCTC 72120T=MCCC 1K03602T), respectively.
Comparative genomics of symbiotic Photobacterium using highly contiguous genome assemblies from long read sequences
Authors: Gould Alison L. , Henderson James B.
Published: December 2023

This study presents the assembly and comparative genomic analysis of luminous

Photobacterium

strains isolated from the light organs of 12 fish species using Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) sequencing. The majority of assemblies achieved chromosome-level continuity, consisting of one large (>3 Mbp) and one small (~1.5 Mbp) contig, with near complete BUSCO scores along with varying plasmid sequences. Leveraging this dataset, this study significantly expanded the available genomes for

P. leiognathi

and its subspecies P. ‘mandapamensis’, enabling a comparative genomic analysis between the two lineages. An analysis of the large and small chromosomes unveiled distinct patterns of core and accessory genes, with a larger fraction of the core genes residing on the large chromosome, supporting the hypothesis of secondary chromosome evolution from megaplasmids in Vibrionaceae. In addition, we discovered a proposed new species, Photobacterium acropomis sp. nov., isolated from an acropomatid host, with an average nucleotide identify (ANI) of 93 % compared to the

P. leiognathi

and P. ‘mandapamensis’ strains. A comparison of the

P. leiognathi

and P. ‘mandapamensis’ lineages revealed minimal differences in gene content, yet highlighted the former’s larger genome size and potential for horizontal gene transfer. An investigation of the lux-rib operon, responsible for light production, indicated congruence between the presence of luxF and host family, challenging its role in differentiating P. ‘mandapamensis’ from

P. leiognathi

. Further insights were derived from the identification of metabolic differences, such as the presence of the NADH:quinone oxidoreductase respiratory complex I in

P. leiognathi

as well as variations in the type II secretion system (T2S) genes between the lineages, potentially impacting protein secretion and symbiosis. In summary, this study advances our understanding of

Photobacterium

genome evolution, highlighting subtle differences between closely related lineages, specifically

P. leiognathi

and P. ‘mandapamensis’. These findings highlight the benefit of long read sequencing for bacterial genome assembly and pangenome analysis and provide a foundation for exploring early bacterial speciation processes of these facultative light organ symbionts.
Risk and early signs of PTSD in people indirectly exposed to October 7 events
Authors: Yamin Dan , Lev-Ari Shahar , Mofaz Merav , Elias Ron , Spiegel David , Yechezkel Matan , L. Brandeau Margaret , Shmueli Erez
Published: December 2023

The coordinated terrorist attacks on October 7, 2023, resulted in catastrophic atrocities, and marked the beginning of the 2023 Israel–Hamas war. The overwhelming coverage by mainstream and social media, characterized by extreme details and graphic images, vividly transported viewers to the horrifying scene. It remains unclear to what extent such indirect exposure influences the occurrence of stress, anxiety, and post-traumatic symptoms. We analyzed data from a three-year prospective study in which 4,797 participants received smartwatches and completed daily questionnaires, supplemented by a nationwide clinical survey with 2,536 participants. Among the participants not directly exposed, we estimated PTSD prevalence to be 22.9-36.0% and moderate to severe anxiety prevalence to be 22.9-55.32%, with 752,057 daily questionnaires before and after October 7 further indicating higher stress levels than those reported in previous events, including political disputes, the COVID-19 pandemic, and past armed conflicts. The occurrences of PTSD and anxiety are well explained by increased and persistent news consumption, and especially by the availability of gory videos on social media. Continuous monitoring of participants via smartwatches and daily questionnaires further revealed considerable differences in stress, mood, step counts, sleep quality, and duration in the first week after the October 7 events among those who later developed PTSD. This study demonstrates the unprecedented amplifying effect of mass media on mental health in terror and war settings and highlights the potential of continuous monitoring for early detection and prompt treatment of those in need.
Comprehensive Multi-Omic Analysis Reveals Distinct Molecular Features in Early and Advanced Stages of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Fan Mingzhu , Hu Jin , Xu Xiaoyan , Chen Jia , Zhang Wenwen , Zheng Xiaoping , Pan Jinheng , Xu Wei , Feng Shan
Published: December 2023

Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) is a serious primary solid tumor that is prevalent worldwide. Due to its high mortality rate, it is crucial to explore both early diagnosis and advanced treatment for HCC. In recent years, multi-omic approaches have emerged as promising tools to identify biomarkers and investigate molecular mechanisms of biological processes and diseases. In this study, we performed proteomics, phosphoproteomics, metabolomics, and lipidomics to reveal the molecular features of early- and advanced-stage HCC. The data obtained from these omics were analyzed separately and then integrated to provide a comprehensive understanding of the disease. The multi-omic results unveiled intricate biological pathways and interaction networks underlying the initiation and progression of HCC. Moreover, we proposed specific potential biomarker panels for both early- and advanced-stage HCC by overlapping our data with CPTAC database, and deduced novel insights and mechanisms related to HCC origination and development.
Beyond the VSG Layer: Exploring the Role of Intrinsic Disorder in the Invariant Surface Glycoproteins of African Trypanosomes
Authors: Sülzen Hagen , Volkov Alexander N. , Geens Rob , Zahedifard Farnaz , Stijlemans Benoit , Zoltner Martin , Magez Stefan , Sterckx Yann G.-J. , Zoll Sebastian
Published: December 2023

In the bloodstream of mammalian hosts, African trypanosomes face the challenge of protecting their invariant surface receptors from immune detection. This crucial role is fulfilled by a dense, glycosylated protein layer composed of variant surface glycoproteins (VSGs), which undergo antigenic variation and provide a physical barrier that shields the underlying invariant surface glycoproteins (ISGs). The protective shield’s limited permeability comes at the cost of restricted access to the extracellular host environment, raising questions regarding the specific function of the ISG repertoire. In this study, we employ an integrative structural biology approach to show that intrinsically disordered membrane-proximal regions are a common feature of members of the ISG superfamily, conferring the ability to switch between compact and elongated conformers. While the folded, membrane-distal ectodomain is buried within the VSG layer for compact conformers, their elongated counterparts would enable the extension beyond it. This dynamic behavior enables ISGs to maintain a low immunogenic footprint while still allowing them to engage with the host environment when necessary. Our findings add further evidence to a dynamic molecular organization of trypanosome surface antigens wherein intrinsic disorder underpins the characteristics of a highly flexible ISG proteome to circumvent the constraints imposed by the VSG coat.
Contrasting roles of Beclin-1 in pain hypersensitivity and anxiety-like behaviours in a mouse model of neuropathic pain
Authors: Zaheer Fariya , Levine Gabriel J. , Simal Ana Leticia , Reid Paige O. , Fatemi Reza , Martino Tami A. , Descalzi Giannina
Published: December 2023

Chronic pain is a debilitative disease affecting 1 in 5 adults globally1. The current understanding of chronic pain remains inadequate, coupled with few available therapeutics for the treatment of associated mental health disorders. Cellular homeostasis is crucial for normal bodily functions and investigation at the cellular levels may reveal a better understanding of the processes that occur leading to the development of chronic pain. Using the spared nerve injury (SNI) model of neuropathic pain, we found that adult male mice with impaired BECLIN-1 function show enhanced mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity compared to wildtype controls. Remarkably, we found that while SNI induced increases in anxiety-like behaviours in wildtype mice, this was not observed in mice with impaired BECLIN-1 protein function. Our data thus indicates that BECLIN-1 is differentially involved in the nociceptive and emotion related effects of chronic neuropathic pain.
Mutation ofOsCDS5confers broad-spectrum disease resistance in rice
Authors: Sun Qiping , Xiao Yongxin , Song Le , Yang Lei , Wang Yin , Yang Wei , Yang Qun , Xie Kabin , Yuan Meng , Li Guotian
Published: December 2023

Phospholipids are important components of biological membranes, participating in various biological processes, including plant development and responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. A previous study showed that mutation of the riceOsCDS5(CDP-DAGSynthase) gene alters lipid metabolism, causing enhanced abiotic stress responses, yellowing of leaves at the seedling stage and delayed plant development. Here, we observed that theOscds5mutant shows enhanced resistance to rice blast, bacterial blight and bacterial leaf streak. Mutation ofOsCDS5promotes production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and increases the expression level of multiple defense-related genes. Transcriptomic analyses indicate that genes involved in responses to stress, biotic/abiotic stimuli and metabolic processes are highly upregulated and enriched in mutantOscds5. Metabolomic analyses show that differential metabolites are enriched in the lipid metabolic and tryptophan metabolic pathways. The decreased level of phosphatidylinositol (PI) and increased level of serotonin likely contribute to enhanced disease resistance of theOscds5mutant. Taken together, mutation ofOsCDS5enhances abiotic and biotic stress responses, andOsCDS5 may be a promising target in genetic engineering to enhance the resilience of rice to abiotic and biotic stresses simultaneously.
Development of the Pneumococcal Genome Library, a core genome multilocus sequence typing scheme, and a taxonomic life identification number barcoding system to investigate and define pneumococcal population structure
Authors: Jansen van Rensburg Melissa J. , Berger Duncan J. , Fohrmann Andy , Bray James E. , Jolley Keith A. , Maiden Martin C.J. , Brueggemann Angela B.
Published: December 2023

Investigating the genomic epidemiology of major bacterial pathogens is integral to understanding transmission, evolution, colonisation, disease, antimicrobial resistance, and vaccine impact. Furthermore, the recent accumulation of large numbers of whole genome sequences for many bacterial species enhances the development of robust genome-wide typing schemes to define the overall bacterial population structure and lineages within it. Using previously published data, we developed the Pneumococcal Genome Library (PGL), a curated dataset of 30,976 genomes and contextual data for carriage and disease pneumococci recovered between 1916-2018 in 82 countries. We leveraged the size and diversity of the PGL to develop a core genome multilocus sequence typing (cgMLST) scheme comprised of 1,222 loci. Finally, using multilevel single-linkage clustering, we stratified pneumococci into hierarchical clusters based on allelic similarity thresholds, and defined these with a taxonomic life identification number (LIN) barcoding system. The PGL, cgMLST scheme, and LIN barcodes represent a high-quality genomic resource and fine-scale clustering approaches for the analysis of pneumococcal populations, which support the genomic epidemiology and surveillance of this leading global pathogen.

Impact statement

Many thousands of pneumococcal genomes are available in the public domain, and this creates opportunities for the scientific community to re-use existing data; however, these data are most useful when the contextual data (provenance and phenotype) are also linked to the genomes. Therefore, we created a curated, open-access database in PubMLST that contained nearly 31,000 published pneumococcal genomes and the corresponding contextual data for each genome. This large and diverse pneumococcal database was used to create a novel cgMLST scheme and multilevel clustering method to define genetic lineages with high resolution and a standardised nomenclature. These are open-access resources for all to use and provide a unified framework for the characterisation of global pneumococcal populations.
Selective Impact of ALK and MELK Inhibition on ERα Stability and Cell Proliferation in Cell Lines Representing Distinct Molecular Phenotypes of Breast Cancer
Authors: Bartoloni Stefania , Pescatori Sara , Bianchi Fabrizio , Cipolletti Manuela , Acconcia Filippo
Published: December 2023

Breast cancer (BC) is a leading cause of global cancer-related mortality in women, necessitating accurate tumor classification for timely intervention. Molecular and histological factors, including PAM50 classification, estrogen receptor α (ERα), breast cancer type 1 susceptibility protein (BRCA1), progesterone receptor (PR), and HER2 expression, contribute to intricate BC subtyping. Through in silico screenings and multiple BC cell line investigations, we identified enhanced sensitivity of ERα-positive BC cell lines to ALK and MELK inhibitors, inducing ERα degradation and diminishing proliferation in specific BC subtypes. MELK inhibition attenuated ERα transcriptional activity, impeding E2-induced gene expression, and hampering proliferation in MCF-7 cells. Synergies between MELK inhibition with 4OH-tamoxifen (Tam) and ALK inhibition with HER2 inhibitors revealed potential therapeutic avenues for ERα-positive/PR-positive/HER2-negative and ERα-positive/PR-negative/HER2-positive tumors, respectively. Our findings propose MELK as a promising target for ERα-positive/PR-positive/HER2-negative BC and highlight ALK as a potential focus for ERα-positive/PR-negative/HER2-positive BC. The synergistic anti-proliferative effects of MELK with Tam and ALK with HER2 inhibitors underscore kinase inhibitors’ potential for selective treatment in diverse BC subtypes, paving the way for personalized and effective therapeutic strategies in BC management.
Business environment reforms effect on entrepreneurial activities of high-income economies: panel data evidence
Authors: Nave Edgar , Ferreira João , Marques Luís Miguel
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Entrepreneurship is an activity of recognised economic and social interest, leading scholars to examine contextual factors that justify variations between economies and governments to configure more favourable conditions to entrepreneurial activity. In this sequence, this study aims to analyse the effect of reforms produced in the business environment on entrepreneurial rates of a set of 18 high-income economies.

Design/methodology/approach

A panel data (2010–2019) methodology was adopted using 10 Doing Business indicators from World Bank and Total early-stage Entrepreneurial Activity (TEA) from Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM).

Findings

In the light of institutional theory, the study shows that improving the business environment for entrepreneurs does not ensure an increase in TEA. Specifically, only the indicators Dealing with Construction, Registering Property and Enforcing Contracts positively impacted the TEA.

Originality/value

This is the first study that monitors and provides evidence regarding the effectiveness of business environment reforms towards entrepreneurship. The authors provide considerable theoretical-practical implications for scholars, entrepreneurs and policymakers to restructure public policies to support entrepreneurial activity.
Immigrant business in transnational contexts: a multifocal understanding of the breakout process
Authors: Onyima Jude Kenechi , Syrett Stephen , Sepulveda Leandro
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This paper contributes to the development of an enhanced understanding of the breakout strategies of immigrant entrepreneurs within a transnational context. It develops a dynamic notion of breakout by placing it within a wider understanding of immigrant entrepreneurial strategy characterised by multifocal embeddedness within transnational space.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopted a qualitative research methodological approach. In-depth interviews were completed with 30 first- and second-generation UK-based Nigerian entrepreneurs and key informants, to provide data on business growth strategies of individual immigrant entrepreneurs in the context of opportunity structures across host, home and third countries.

Findings

Nigerian immigrant entrepreneurs adopted distinctive entrepreneurial strategies related to the complex and diverse transnational context within which they were embedded. Findings demonstrated how the realisation of diversification and differentiation strategies was particularly influenced by locational and spatial strategies, the specific contextual embeddedness of the entrepreneur and generational differences across entrepreneurs.

Originality/value

Conceptualising immigrant entrepreneurship from a standpoint of transnational, multifocal embeddedness produces a complex and multi-layered understanding of business breakout as a dynamic process. Drawing together the unifocal, bifocal and multifocal dimensions of embeddedness with findings on the breakout strategies being pursued by immigrant entrepreneurs, an original typology is presented which identifies different approaches to breakout across varied contexts. This has significant policy and practice implications for the content, targeting and access of business support and wider social issues, relating to the identities, social mobility and integration of immigrant entrepreneurs.
Digital technology adoption challenges in the agri-food supply chain from the perspective of attaining sustainable development goals
Authors: Saha Aditi , Raut Rakesh , Kumar Mukesh
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the challenges surrounding the implementation of digital technology (DT) agri-food supply chain (AFSC) and explore how these challenges relate to the various sustainability dimensions. Additionally, it aims to assess how these challenges are interconnected in relation to achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs).

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs a mixed-method approach utilizing the EFA-ISM-Fuzzy DEMATEL technique. To support and validate the findings, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) categorized 12 critical challenges in sustainable dimensions from 141 participants' responses. Furthermore, interpretive structural modeling (ISM) and decision-making trial and evaluation (DEMATEL) methods were used to obtain the interrelationship and hierarchical structure of the challenges.

Findings

The study identified 12 critical challenges while adopting DT in AFSC. These challenges were categorized into four sustainable dimensions: technological, economic, environmental and social. These challenges hinder the achievement of SDGs as well. Lack of regulatory and policy framework with security and privacy issues were the key challenges faced while adopting DT. These observations emphasize the necessity for government and policymakers to prioritize tackling the identified challenges to successfully endorse and execute DT initiatives in AFSC while also fulfilling the SDGs.

Research limitations/implications

The implication underscores the need for collaboration among various stakeholders, such as governments, policymakers, businesses and researchers. By collectively addressing these challenges, DT can be leveraged optimally, fostering sustainable practices and making progress toward achieving the SDGs within the AFSC.

Originality/value

The study uses a combination technique of EFA and ISM-DEMATEL to identify the challenges faced in Indian AFSC while adopting DT and categorizes the interrelation between the challenges along with fulfilling the SDGs.
Employee treatment and stock price crash risk: evidence from China
Authors: Wang Maochuan , Xu Xixiong , Wang Siqi
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impact of employee treatment on stock price crash risk in emerging markets. The study further sheds light on the economic channels and boundary conditions between employee treatment and crash risk.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs a large-scale archival dataset of Chinese A-share listed firms covering 2010 to 2021. To establish causality, the study leverages multi-way fixed effects, Oster’s test, change regression and instrumental variable methods to alleviate endogeneity concerns.

Findings

The results reveal that employee-friendly treatment leads to a lower crash risk. Moreover, improving internal control quality and enhancing firm reputation appear to be the two plausible economic channels through which employee treatment mitigates crash risk. Cross-sectionally, the documented impact is more evident for human-capital-intensive firms, firms with weaker external monitoring and those operating in fiercely competitive industries.

Originality/value

This study is among the first to show that employee treatment has a favorable consequence for shareholder benefit through reducing crash risk. The study thus adds to the ongoing debate regarding the relationship between employee treatment and shareholder wealth. The study also extends the nascent literature on the role of rank-and-file employees in shaping corporate information landscapes.
Reckoning the performance of management institutions – A Mamdani fuzzy inference system approach
Authors: Palaniappan Umayal , Suganthi L.
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to present an integrated methodological framework to aid in performance stewardship of management institutions according to their strategies based on a holistic evaluation encompassing social, economic and environmental dimensions.

Design/methodology/approach

A Mamdani fuzzy inference system (FIS) approach was adopted to design the quantitative models with respect to balanced scorecard (BSC) perspectives to demonstrate dynamic capability. Individual models were developed for each perspective of BSC using Mamdani FIS. Data was collected from subject matter experts in management education.

Findings

The proposed methodology is able to successfully compute the scores for each perspective. Effective placement, teaching learning process, faculty development and systematic feedback from the stakeholders were found to be the key drivers for revenue generation. The model is validated as the results were well accepted by the head of the institution after implementation.

Research limitations/implications

The model resulting from this study will assist the institution to cyclically assess its performance, thus enabling continuous improvement. The strategy map provides the causality of the objectives across the four perspectives to aid the practitioners to better strategize. Also this study contributes to the literature of BSC as well to the applications of multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) techniques.

Originality/value

Mamdani FIS integrated BSC model is a significant contribution to the academia of management education to quantitatively compute the performance of institutions. This quantified model reduces the ambiguity for practitioners to decide the performance levels for each metric and the priorities of metrics.
Genuine or impression management? Uncovering biases in how people respond to the Black Lives Matter movement in sport
Authors: Park Youngho , Kwak Dae Hee
Published: December 2023

Purpose

National surveys reveal that sports fans exhibit greater support for athletes, sports teams and leagues endorsing social justice initiatives compared to the general population, highlighting the potential of sports for positive social impact. This study investigates whether such responses are influenced by systematic biases.

Design/methodology/approach

Replicating a Nielsen national survey, two experiments explore whether biases affect support for athletes' participation in the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement. The study also examines partisan motivated reasoning as a factor driving sports fans' support for BLM.

Findings

While avid fans display stronger endorsement of BLM compared to causal/non-sports fans, evidence suggests that systematic biases distort these responses. When sport identity becomes salient, reported support for the BLM movement becomes inflated.

Research limitations/implications

Researchers often employ self-report surveys to gauge audience perceptions of athlete activism or cause-related initiatives, particularly when assessing their impact. This study's findings indicate that this context is susceptible to SDB.

Originality/value

The study underscores the role of systematic biases in self-report surveys, particularly in socially desirable contexts. People tend to over-report “positive behavior,” leading survey participants to respond more favorably to questions that are socially desirable. Therefore, interpreting survey results with caution becomes essential when the research context is deemed socially (un)desirable. It is crucial for researchers to apply appropriate measures to identify and mitigate systematic response biases. The authors recommend that researchers adopt both procedural and statistical remedies to detect and reduce social desirability biases.
Bracing community in rural coworking: emerging trends and categories
Authors: Sánchez-Vergara José Ignacio , Orel Marko , Ferreira Valeria , Rus Andrej
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The objective of this study is to explore the concept of rural coworking in the scientific literature and examine how it generates community narratives based on the value of space and business practices. This study aims to contribute to the understanding of rural coworking as a driver of participation and relationships among diverse stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

To identify and analyse trends and categories in rural coworking studies, understand the concept of rural coworking and how community narratives have been focused, the authors carried out a systematic literature review following the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) tool. The review was performed using Scopus, obtaining 22 papers.

Findings

The findings reveal that rural coworking is on definition, but it emphasises the role of community as a main actor in its consolidation. On the other hand, rural coworking is seen as an opportunity to create impactful new business strategies through space regeneration and revitalisation. Management perspectives prevail in this research field, highlighting the role of public administrations, entrepreneurs and policymakers, and their capacities to build a business environment to enhance coworking activity.

Originality/value

The paper establishes conceptual categories and research trends in the rural coworking literature, and how its actors have a strategic importance in defining their own practices and narratives. The interrelationship between coworking activity and local business development is continually seen as an opportunity for growth, so this paper will have value for rural coworking planners and consultants in non-urban areas.
Transaction-based lending and real earnings management
Authors: Gray Stephen , Premti Arjan
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine how lenders alter their behavior when faced with real earnings management.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses the incremental R-square approach as in Kim and Kross (2005) to examine how much lenders rely on income statement and balance sheet ratios as the degree of real earnings management increases.

Findings

As real earnings management affects mostly the income statement, the authors find that lenders rely less on income statement ratios in making credit decisions in the presence of real earnings management. The authors also find that lenders do not alter their reliance on balance sheet ratios when faced with real earnings management.

Originality/value

This paper is the first to study how lenders alter their reliance on financial statements in making credit decisions in the presence of real earnings management. The findings of this paper could help the regulators set standards to improve the usefulness of financial statements. The findings of this paper could also help practitioners (borrowers and lenders) understand how real earnings management affects credit decisions.
Participation in mental health takaful schemes in Malaysia: perspectives of young intellectuals
Authors: Amin Hanudin
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study examined the participation in mental health takaful schemes among young intellectuals in two public universities in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing from the Attitude-Social Influence-Self-Efficacy (ASE), this study evaluated the effects of attitude, social influence and self-efficacy on participation in mental health takaful schemes using an empirical investigation surveying 767 respondents who were identified as young intellectuals in Malaysia.

Findings

Evidently, the ASE factors shape the development of participation in mental health takaful schemes among young intellectuals.

Research limitations/implications

This study is confined in terms of the context and variables used – which limits its generalisation. Future studies should address these issues accordingly.

Practical implications

The results obtained can become a yardstick to gauge the participation of young intellectuals in mental health takaful in Malaysia.

Originality/value

This study introduced mental health takaful to the ASE, where young intellectuals are brought into play.
Vogt‐Koyanagi‐Harada disease‐like uveitis after drug therapy including BRAF/MEK inhibitors in melanoma patients with HLA‐DRB1*04
Authors: Amagai Ryo , Fujimura Taku , Yamazaki Emi , Takahashi Manami , Tamabuchi Erika , Kambayashi Yumi , Hashimoto Akira , Hashimoto Kazuki , Asano Yoshihide
Published: December 2023

The combination of BRAF kinase inhibitors (BRAFis) and MEK kinase inhibitors (MEKis) is one of the most promising chemotherapy regimens in the treatment of BRAF‐mutant melanoma. Although BRAFi plus MEKi combined therapy is widely used for the treatment of BRAFV600‐mutated melanoma, the incidence of uveitis caused by BRAFi plus MEKi is limited. In this report, we described five cases (two men and three women) of Vogt‐Koyanagi‐Harada (VKH) disease‐like uveitis in melanoma patients who received BRAFi plus MEKi combined therapy. Of note, all the patients had the HLA‐DRB1*04 haplotype, which is frequently detected in VKH‐like non‐infectious uveitis. On the other hand, among BRAFi plus MEKi‐treated patients who did not develop VKH disease‐like uveitis, only one of five (20%) patients had the HLA‐DRB1*04 haplotype. Collectively, BRAFi/MEKi might induce severe VKH disease‐like uveitis in melanoma patients with the HLA‐DRB1*04 haplotype.
Recruitment, retention, and experiences of Australian male dietitians: A cross‐sectional online survey
Authors: Stefoska‐Needham Anita , Weber Christopher M. , Beck Eleanor J. , Craddock Joel C. , Houston Lauren A.
Published: December 2023

Aim

Male dietitians are under‐represented in the global dietetics workforce, including in Australia. This study explores Australian males' experiences as dietitians in the Australian workforce, with the aim to identify influences that initially attracted them to dietetics, as well as barriers that may affect their decision to stay in or leave the profession.

Methods

A cross‐sectional, semi‐quantitative web‐based survey was distributed to male dietitians using purposive, snowball sampling. Closed and open‐ended questions were included. Descriptive statistics were generated, and content analysis of free‐text responses identified major themes.

Results

Seventy‐one respondents opened the survey link, of which 65 respondents attempted the survey. Fifty‐four (83.1%) respondents agreed that dietetics is female‐dominated. An interest in food and nutrition was the most reported reason for studying dietetics (73.8%). Of the 55 respondents who were not intending to retire in the next 5 years, 15 (27.3%) stated they were somewhat or extremely likely to leave the profession of dietetics. Respondents identified issues that impacted their experiences as a male dietitian, including gender differences, a lack of male role models, barriers to career progression/employment, and perceptions of a lack of respect and impact within healthcare.

Conclusions

Australian male dietitians perceive systemic, social, and personal factors that have influenced their career experiences. Greater exposure to prominent male role models may be self‐perpetuating in improving male dietitian recruitment and eventually, retention. A multi‐pronged approach is needed to improve the rate of recruitment of male dietitians, with a role for tertiary education providers and peak dietetics bodies.
Polymorphisms in the A118G SNP of the OPRM1 gene produce different experiences of opioids: A human laboratory phenotype–genotype assessment
Authors: Dunn Kelly E. , Huhn Andrew S. , Finan Patrick H. , Mange Ami , Bergeria Cecilia L. , Maher Brion S. , Rabinowitz Jill A. , Strain Eric C. , Antoine Denis
Published: December 2023

Allelic variations in the A118G SNP of the OPRM1 gene change opioid signaling; however, evaluations of how allelic differences may influence opioid effects are lacking. This human laboratory paradigm examined whether the AA versus AG/GG genotypes determined opioid response profiles. Individuals with limited opioid exposure (N = 100) completed a five‐day within‐subject, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, residential study. Participants were admitted (Day 1), received 4 mg hydromorphone (Day 2) and 0 mg, 2 mg and 8 mg hydromorphone in randomized order (Days 3–5) and completed self‐reported visual analog scale (VAS) ratings and Likert scales, observed VAS, and physiological responses at baseline and for 6.5 h post‐dose. Outcomes were analysed as peak/nadir effects over time as a function of genotype (available for N = 96 individuals; AG/GG = 13.5%, AA = 86.4%). Participants with AG/GG rated low and moderate doses of hydromorphone as significantly more positive (e.g., Good Effects VAS, coasting, drive, friendly, talkative, stimulation) with fewer negative effects (e.g., itchy skin, nausea, sleepiness), and were also observed as being more talkative and energetic relative to persons with AA. Persons with AG/GG were less physiologically reactive as determined by diastolic blood pressure and heart rate, but had more changes in core temperature compared with those with AA. Persons with AA also demonstrated more prototypic agonist effects across doses; persons with AG/GG showed limited response to 2 mg and 4 mg. Data suggest persons with AG/GG genotype experienced more pleasant and fewer unpleasant responses to hydromorphone relative to persons with AA. Future studies should replicate these laboratory findings in clinical populations to support a precision medicine approach to opioid prescribing.