bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wickerhamiella bidentis sp. nov., a novel yeast species isolated from flowers and insects in Japan
Authors: Seike Taisuke , Takekata Hiroki , Uchida Yui , Sakata Natsue , Furusawa Chikara , Matsuda Fumio
Published: March 2023

Two strains were isolated from flowers and insects in Japan, namely NBRC 115686T and NBRC 115687, respectively. Based on sequence analysis of the D1/D2 domain of the 26S large subunit (LSU) rRNA gene and the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and physiological characteristics, these strains were found to represent a novel yeast species of the genus Wickerhamiella. Considering pairwise sequence similarity, NBRC 115686T and NBRC 115687 differ from the type strain of the most closely related species, Wickerhamiella galacta NRRL Y-17645T, by 65–66 nucleotide substitutions with 12 gaps (11.65–11.83 %) in the D1/D2 domain of the LSU rRNA gene. The novel species differ from the closely related Wickerhamiella species in some physiological characteristics. For example, compared with Wickerhamiella galacta JCM 8257T, NBRC 115686T and NBRC 115687 assimilated d-galactose, and could grow at 35 and 37 °C. Hence, the name Wickerhamiella bidentis sp. nov. is proposed to accommodate this species in the genus Wickerhamiella. The holotype is NBRC 115686T (ex-type strain JCM 35540=CBS 18008).
Cytobacillus citreus sp. nov., isolated from citrus rhizosphere soil
Authors: Liu Guo-Hong , Narsing Rao Manik Prabhu , Liu Ding-Qi , Tang Rong , Chen Qian-Qian , Shi Huai , Liu Bo , Li Wen-Jun , Zhou Shun-Gui
Published: March 2023

A Gram-stain-positive, rod-shaped and motile strain, designated FJAT-49705T, was isolated from the citrus rhizosphere soil sample. Strain FJAT-49705T grew at 20–40 °C (optimum, 30 °C) and pH 6.0–11.0 (optimum, pH 7.0) with 0–5 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 2 %). Strain FJAT-49705T showed high 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity to ‘Bacillus dafuensis’ FJAT-25496T (99.7 %) and

Cytobacillus solani

FJAT-18043T (98.0 %). In phylogenetic (based on 16S rRNA gene sequences) and phylogenomic trees (based on 71 bacterial single-copy genes), strain FJAT-49705T clustered with the members of the genus

Cytobacillus

. MK-7 was the only isoprenoid quinone present. The main polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine and an unidentified phospholipid. The major fatty acids were anteiso-C15 : 0 and iso-C15 : 0. The genomic DNA G+C content was 36.9 %. The average nucleotide identity (ANI) values between FJAT-49705T and ‘B. dafuensis’ FJAT-25496T and

C. solani

FJAT-18043T were below the cut-off level (95–96 %) recommended as the ANI criterion for interspecies identity. Based on the above results, strain FJAT-49705T represents a novel species of the genus

Cytobacillus

, for which the name Cytobacillus citreus sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is FJAT-49705T (=CCTCC AB 2019243T= LMG 31580T).
Phylogenomic analysis of the genus Rosenbergiella and description of Rosenbergiella gaditana sp. nov., Rosenbergiella metrosideri sp. nov., Rosenbergiella epipactidis subsp. epipactidis subsp. nov., Rosenbergiella epipactidis subsp. californiensis subsp. nov., Rosenbergiella epipactidis subsp. japonicus subsp. nov., Rosenbergiella nectarea subsp. nectarea subsp. nov. and Rosenbergiella nectarea subsp. apis subsp. nov., isolated from floral nectar and insects
Authors: Álvarez-Pérez Sergio , de Vega Clara , Vanoirbeek Kristof , Tsuji Kaoru , Jacquemyn Hans , Fukami Tadashi , Michiels Chris , Lievens Bart
Published: March 2023

The genus

Rosenbergiella

is one of the most frequent bacterial inhabitants of flowers and a usual member of the insect microbiota worldwide. To date, there is only one publicly available

Rosenbergiella

genome, corresponding to the type strain of

Rosenbergiella nectarea

(8N4T), which precludes a detailed analysis of intra-genus phylogenetic relationships. In this study, we obtained draft genomes of the type strains of the other

Rosenbergiella

species validly published to date (

R. australiborealis

,

R. collisarenosi

and

R. epipactidis

) and 23 additional isolates of flower and insect origin. Isolate S61T, retrieved from the nectar of an Antirrhinum sp. flower collected in southern Spain, displayed low average nucleotide identity (ANI) and in silico DNA–DNA hybridization (isDDH) values when compared with other

Rosenbergiella

members (≤86.5 and ≤29.8 %, respectively). Similarly, isolate JB07T, which was obtained from the floral nectar of Metrosideros polymorpha plants in Hawaii (USA) had ≤95.7 % ANI and ≤64.1 % isDDH with other

Rosenbergiella

isolates. Therefore, our results support the description of two new

Rosenbergiella

species for which we propose the names Rosenbergiella gaditana sp. nov. (type strain: S61T=NCCB 100789T=DSM 111181T) and Rosenbergiella metrosideri sp. nov. (JB07T=NCCB 100888T=LMG 32616T). Additionally, some

R. epipactidis

and

R. nectarea

isolates showed isDDH values<79 % with other conspecific isolates, which suggests that these species include subspecies for which we propose the names

Rosenbergiella epipactidis

subsp. epipactidis subsp. nov. (S256T=CECT 8502T=LMG 27956T),

Rosenbergiella epipactidis

subsp. californiensis subsp. nov. (FR72T=NCCB 100898T=LMG 32786T),

Rosenbergiella epipactidis

subsp. japonicus subsp. nov. (K24T=NCCB 100924T=LMG 32785T),

Rosenbergiella nectarea

subsp. nectarea subsp. nov. (8N4T = DSM 24150T = LMG 26121T) and

Rosenbergiella nectarea

subsp. apis subsp. nov. (B1AT=NCCB 100810T= DSM 111763T), respectively. Finally, we present the first phylogenomic analysis of the genus

Rosenbergiella

and update the formal description of the species

R. australiborealis

,

R. collisarenosi

,

R. epipactidis

and

R. nectarea

based on new genomic and phenotypic information.
ICTV Virus Taxonomy Profile: Sphaerolipoviridae 2023
Authors: Demina Tatiana A. , Dyall-Smith Mike , Jalasvuori Matti , Du Shishen , Oksanen Hanna M.
Published: March 2023

Members of the family Sphaerolipoviridae have non-enveloped tailless icosahedral virions with a protein-rich internal lipid membrane. The genome is a linear double-stranded DNA of about 30 kbp with inverted terminal repeats and terminal proteins. The capsid has a pseudo triangulation T=28 dextro symmetry and is built of two major capsid protein types. Spike complexes decorate fivefold vertices. Sphaerolipoviruses have a narrow host range and a lytic life cycle, infecting haloarchaea in the class Halobacteria (phylum Euryarchaeota). This is a summary of the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV) Report on the family Sphaerolipoviridae, which is available at ictv.global/report/sphaerolipoviridae.
Poor accuracy of single serological IgM tests in children with suspected acute Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection in Guangzhou, China
Authors: Peng Qiu-Ying , Zhang Liang , Deng Hua , Ye Yu-Ming , Huang Rui-Lin , Liang Yao-Qiong , Feng Su-Shi , Li Juan , Luo Xue-Qun , Peng Yan-Li
Published: March 2023

Introduction. Early and accurate diagnosis of

Mycoplasma pneumoniae

(MP) infection of children with pneumonia is at the core of treatment in clinical practice.

Gap Statement. Serological immunoglobulin M (IgM) tests for MP infection of children in south China have been rarely described.

Aim. To assess the diagnostic performance and clinical application of serodiagnosis of MP infection in paediatric pneumonia patients.

Methodology. Serum samples from 144 children diagnosed with MP pneumonia were subjected to a particle agglutination (PA)-based IgM assay. Meanwhile, we used an established suspension array as the reference standard method for the detection of MP DNA in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) from all patients to assess the reliability of serological assays.

Results. When running immunological testing in single serum samples, 80.6 %(79/98) of cases were diagnosed with MP infection, whereas only 55 (56.1 %) cases were positive in MP DNA analysis. Furthermore, single serum tests for IgM during acute MP infection resulted in 85.5 % (47/55) sensitivity and 25.6 % (11/43) specificity. Nevertheless, immunological testing and MP DNA analysis yielded the same results when paired sera were available for MP IgM antibody testing.

Conclusion. Paired serological IgM assays are necessary for the determination of an acute MP infection, whereas single serological IgM testing is unreliable. Moreover, even a short interval of two MP serological tests works well.
Changes in Environmental Stress over COVID-19 Pandemic Likely Contributed to Failure to Replicate Adiposity Phenotype Associated withKrtcap3
Authors: Szalanczy Alexandria M , Giorgio Gina , Goff Emily , Seshie Osborne , Grzybowski Michael , Klotz Jason , Geurts Aron M , Redei Eva E , Solberg Woods Leah C
Published: March 2023

We previously identifiedKeratinocyte-associated protein 3, Krtcap3,as an obesity-related gene in female rats where a whole-bodyKrtcap3knock-out (KO) led to increased adiposity compared to wild-type (WT) controls when fed a high-fat diet (HFD). We sought to replicate this work to better understand the function ofKrtcap3but were unable to reproduce the adiposity phenotype. In the current work, WT female rats ate more compared to WT in the prior study, with corresponding increases in body weight and fat mass, while there were no changes in these measures in KO females between the studies. The prior study was conducted before the COVID-19 pandemic, while the current study started after initial lock-down orders and was completed during the pandemic with a generally less stressful environment. We hypothesize that the environmental changes impacted stress levels and may explain the failure to replicate our results. Analysis of corticosterone (CORT) at euthanasia showed a significant study by genotype interaction where WT had significantly higher CORT relative to KO in Study 1, with no differences in Study 2. These data suggest that decreasingKrtcap3expression may alter the environmental stress response to influence adiposity. We also found that KO rats in both studies, but not WT, experienced a dramatic increase in CORT after their cage mate was removed, suggesting a separate connection to social behavioral stress. Future work is necessary to confirm and elucidate the finer mechanisms of these relationships, but these data indicate the possibility ofKrtcap3as a novel stress gene.
Electrophysiological signatures of temporal context in the bisection task
Authors: Baykan Cemre , Zhu Xiuna , Zinchenko Artyom , Müller Hermann J. , Shi Zhuanghua
Published: March 2023

Despite relatively accurate time judgment, subjective time is susceptible to various contexts, such as sample spacing and frequency. Several electroencephalographic (EEG) components have been linked to timing, including the contingent negative variation (CNV), offset P2, and late positive component of timing (LPCt). However, the specific role of these components in the contextual modulation of perceived time remains unclear. In this study, we conducted two temporal bisection experiments, where participants had to judge if a test duration was close to a short or long standard. Unbeknownst to participants, the sample spacing (Experiment 1) and frequency (Experiment 2) were altered to create short and long contexts while keeping the test range and standards the same in different sessions. The results showed that the bisection threshold shifted toward the ensemble mean and that CNV and LPCt were sensitive to context modulation. Compared to the long context, the CNV climbing rate increased in the short context, and the amplitude and latency of the LPCt were reduced. These findings suggest the CNV represents an expectancy wave for upcoming decision-making, while LPCt reflects the decision-making process, both influenced by the temporal context.
Refinement of the crystal structure of fresnoite, Ba2TiSi2O8, from Löhley (Eifel district, Germany); Gladstone–Dale compatibility, electronic polarizability and vibrational spectroscopy of minerals and inorganic compounds with pentacoordinated TiIVand a titanyl bond
Authors: Chukanov Nikita V. , Kazheva Olga N. , Fischer Reinhard X. , Aksenov Sergey M.
Published: March 2023

Most known compounds with five-coordinated Ti4+are natural and synthetic titanosilicates. The crystal structure of natural fresnoite, Ba2TiSi2O8[tetragonal, space groupP4bm, a= 8.510 (1) Å,c= 5.197 (1) Å,V= 376.4 (1) Å3,Z= 2], has been refined toR= 0.011 on the basis of 807 unique single-crystal reflections withI> 2σ(I). Titanium has fivefold coordination with one short (`titanyl') bond of 1.692 (5) Å. Bonds in the TiO5polyhedron are discussed in comparison to analogous coordination polyhedra in other minerals and compounds. A review of all known compounds with Ti4+O5polyhedra shows that most of them are titanosilicates in which titanium forms a short Ti—O bond (∼1.61 to ∼1.77 Å). Poor Gladstone–Dale compatibility between chemical composition, optical characteristics and density of these compounds is explained by the anomalous contribution of[5]Ti4+to the optical properties as shown by calculations based on the relationship between electronic polarizabilities and refractive indices. An improved Gladstone–Dale coefficient of 0.29 is suggested for TiO2with[5]Ti4+. A negative correlation between `titanyl' bond lengths and wavenumbers of the bands of Ti—O stretching vibrations (in the range of 890–830 cm−1) in infrared and Raman spectra is observed.
Crystal search – feasibility study of a real-time deep learning process for crystallization well images
Authors: Thielmann Yvonne , Luft Thorsten , Zint Norbert , Koepke Juergen
Published: March 2023

To avoid the time-consuming and often monotonous task of manual inspection of crystallization plates, a Python-based program to automatically detect crystals in crystallization wells employing deep learning techniques was developed. The program uses manually scored crystallization trials deposited in a database of an in-house crystallization robot as a training set. Since the success rate of such a system is able to catch up with manual inspection by trained persons, it will become an important tool for crystallographers working on biological samples. Four network architectures were compared and the SqueezeNet architecture performed best. In detecting crystals AlexNet accomplished a better result, but with a lower threshold the mean value for crystal detection was improved for SqueezeNet. Two assumptions were made about the imaging rate. With these two extremes it was found that an image processing rate of at least two times, but up to 58 times in the worst case, would be needed to reach the maximum imaging rate according to the deep learning network architecture employed for real-time classification. To avoid high workloads for the control computer of the CrystalMation system, the computing is distributed over several workstations, participating voluntarily, by the grid programming system from the Berkeley Open Infrastructure for Network Computing (BOINC). The outcome of the program is redistributed into the database as automatic real-time scores (ARTscore). These are immediately visible as colored frames around each crystallization well image of the inspection program. In addition, regions of droplets with the highest scoring probability found by the system are also available as images.
Low-speed permanent magnet generator for use in a compact wind turbine
Authors: Cichowicz Michal , Pilecki Wojciech , Wardach Marcin , Prajzendanc Paweł , Cierzniewski Kamil , Palka Ryszard
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to present the project of a permanent magnet synchronous machine which can be used as generator in the vertical axis wind turbine.

Design/methodology/approach

In the study, finite element analysis was used to perform simulation research of electrical machines. Based on the simulation studies, an experimental model was built. The paper presents also selected experimental results.

Findings

During the research, it was found that the radial arrangement of the permanent magnets is more favorable than the tangential one for the selected structure of the generator with permanent magnets.

Research limitations/implications

During the experimental research, a problem was encountered involving the correct control of the constructed generator at low rotational speeds.

Practical implications

The proposed solution can be used in low-speed vertical axis wind turbines.

Social implications

The presented research fits the global trend toward the use of alternative and renewable energy sources.

Originality/value

The paper presents new simulation studies of two low-speed generator topologies. The results for the radial and tangential arrangement of the permanent magnets in the rotor were verified. Based on this research, an experimental prototype of a generator for a slow-speed vertical axis wind turbine was built.
Perceived discrimination of Māori and Pacific employees in Aotearoa/New Zealand: work and well-being consequences and testing the symbolic interaction perspective
Authors: Haar Jarrod
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Māori are the indigenous people of Aotearoa/New Zealand and have a history of experiencing discrimination, which occurs similarly for Pacific peoples. While both ethnic groups have lower pay and higher unemployment issues, their workplace experiences around perceived discrimination are seldom explored. Consequently, this study tests the influence of perceived discrimination on work outcomes (job satisfaction and work engagement) and well-being outcomes (job stress, job anxiety and job depression). Further, potential buffering effects of perceived organizational support (POS) and gender are conducted to test the symbolic interaction perspective (gender differences towards the potential buffering effects of POS).

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses data from Māori employees (n = 437) and Pacific employees (n = 148) for a total sample of 585 employees across a wide range of occupations and industries. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) of the data was used, and two-way and three-way moderations were conducted.

Findings

Overall, perceived discrimination was detrimentally related to all outcomes. Further, significant three-way interactions were found towards all well-being outcomes. This supported the symbolic interaction perspective, whereby high POS buffered perceived discrimination best for females, but low POS was key for males.

Research limitations/implications

This research is important because the authors provide much-needed empirical evidence around ethnic discrimination in Aotearoa/New Zealand workplaces and extend the outcomes explored in the discrimination literature. Implications for organizations include establishing the rate of discrimination and developing human resource management (HRM) practices to address this.

Originality/value

Beyond the unique findings towards Māori and Pacific employees, the strong support for the symbolic interaction perspective provides useful insights into understanding that support benefits differ by gender.
Humorous leadership, upward voice and resistance to change in the hotel context: from affective events theory perspective
Authors: Salem Mennaalla Hassan , Selem Kareem M. , Khalid Rimsha , Raza Mohsin , Valeri Marco
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the effect of affiliative-based humorous leadership on hotel employee outcomes (i.e. resistance to change and upward voice), underpinned by affective events theory. Further, this paper investigates psychological capital as a mediation effect and emotional intelligence as a moderation effect.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a structured questionnaire, 554 supervisors of 20 four- and five-star hotels in Sharm El-Sheikh responded based on a time-lagged approach. A Smart-partial least squares (Smart-PLS) v. 3.3.9 was used to analyze the data set.

Findings

The findings revealed that affiliative-based humorous leadership has a positive effect on psychological capital, and psychological capital has a positive association with employee upward voice. Psychological capital partially mediated the linkage of humorous leadership with employees' upward voices and resistance to change. According to the results, emotional intelligence strengthened the linkage of psychological capital with employee resistance to change and upward voice.

Research limitations/implications

The findings contribute to the body of knowledge on humor and the development of new ideas in the hospitality literature. This paper adds to the hospitality literature on humorous leadership in developing countries, specifically in Egypt. This paper also provides practitioners with new perspectives as they develop strategies and use humor-related wise leadership styles in the workplace.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper is one of the first studies to assess affiliative-based humor in leadership in the hospitality industry. This paper contributes to future studies on the crucial effect of workplace engagement and its association with employees’ novel and intriguing actions and offers a good guideline for organizations and enterprises wishing to better leverage leader humor.
The role of financial risk-taking attitude in personal finances and consumer satisfaction: evidence from Australia
Authors: Tahir Muhammad S. , Richards Daniel W. , Ahmed Abdullahi D.
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Financial risk-taking attitude (FRT) plays an important role in consumers' financial decisions, thereby determining consumer well-being. Motivated by the recent research on consumer well-being, this paper explores the relationships between financial literacy, a propensity to plan (PTP), FRT, financial satisfaction and life satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) survey to achieve the purpose of this paper. Furthermore, the authors use the variance-based partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), also known as the PLS path modeling approach to test our proposed hypotheses empirically.

Findings

The study finds a strong partial mediation of FRT between financial literacy and financial satisfaction. Moreover, the analyses reveal that a high PTP combined with a high FRT results in achieving high financial satisfaction, which leads to improved life satisfaction.

Practical implications

The findings show the importance of creating financial plans in accordance with risk tolerance. While increasing financial literacy is relevant, the research suggests that tools that help consumers plan and invest in appropriate risky investments will lead to better outcomes.

Originality/value

Though scholarly acumen of consumer well-being is rapidly developing, little remains known regarding the collective roles of financial literacy, PTP and FRT. The study addresses this gap by showing that financial literacy, risk-taking attitudes and planning propensities are all interconnected and necessary ingredients to improve financial and life satisfaction.
Traveling with pets: designing hospitality services for pet owners/parents and hotel guests
Authors: Buhalis Dimitrios , Chan Janelle
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Pet-friendly hotels are growing rapidly. The prevalence of pet adoption has largely resulted from the loneliness due to social distancing that happened during the Coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Many hotels around the world aim to become pet-friendly to satisfy the growing demand. Hoteliers believe that the popularity of pet-friendly hotels will continue, as pet owners often treat pets as their kids. This study aims to investigate how pet-friendly hotels need to design and manage pet-friendly services and policies.

Design/methodology/approach

Using grounded theory methodology, this research conducts interviews with 25 pet-friendly hotel managers from Hong Kong (HK). The study includes hotels from different hotel categories and classifications. It examines the conceptualization of pet-friendly service design, drawing on a service blueprint.

Findings

Building on the service marketing and service blueprint literature, this research provides a synthesis that reflects how pet-friendly hotels can serve both guests with and without pets. The findings reveal that pet-owner’s service expectations are formed on anthropomorphism, that is, an inclination of attributing human features to nonhuman entity. Hotel managers, and particular those who have pets personally understand better how pet-friendly service can be adapted to meet the expectations and requirements of pet owners while accommodating guests without pets. The market of pet-friendly hospitality is growing, with high profit potential from pet owners who are willing to spend generously.

Research limitations/implications

Data were collected from selected pet-friendly hotels in HK through interviews with pet-friendly service providers. The research is qualitative and exploratory in nature. It aims to explore and examine the multilevel pet-friendly hospitality service design from a managerial perspective. This research enriches the literature on anthropomorphism theory, the design of pet-friendly services and the application of service blueprint.

Practical implications

The research offers explicit suggestions for the design of pet-friendly hospitality services. A pet-friendly hotel service blueprint is developed. This can help managers to develop essential pet-friendly policies and service collaborations between internal departments and with external specialist organizations, maximizing the value for all stakeholders.

Originality/value

The study explores a rapidly emerging market and scrutinizes its specific design requirements. It extends theoretical insights by enriching the anthropomorphism theory and broadening the conceptualizations of service blueprint based on anthropomorphism theory.
A literature survey of corporate failure prediction models
Authors: Jones Stewart
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This study updates the literature review of Jones (1987) published in this journal. The study pays particular attention to two important themes that have shaped the field over the past 35 years: (1) the development of a range of innovative new statistical learning methods, particularly advanced machine learning methods such as stochastic gradient boosting, adaptive boosting, random forests and deep learning, and (2) the emergence of a wide variety of bankruptcy predictor variables extending beyond traditional financial ratios, including market-based variables, earnings management proxies, auditor going concern opinions (GCOs) and corporate governance attributes. Several directions for future research are discussed.

Design/methodology/approach

This study provides a systematic review of the corporate failure literature over the past 35 years with a particular focus on the emergence of new statistical learning methodologies and predictor variables. This synthesis of the literature evaluates the strength and limitations of different modelling approaches under different circumstances and provides an overall evaluation the relative contribution of alternative predictor variables. The study aims to provide a transparent, reproducible and interpretable review of the literature. The literature review also takes a theme-centric rather than author-centric approach and focuses on structured themes that have dominated the literature since 1987.

Findings

There are several major findings of this study. First, advanced machine learning methods appear to have the most promise for future firm failure research. Not only do these methods predict significantly better than conventional models, but they also possess many appealing statistical properties. Second, there are now a much wider range of variables being used to model and predict firm failure. However, the literature needs to be interpreted with some caution given the many mixed findings. Finally, there are still a number of unresolved methodological issues arising from the Jones (1987) study that still requiring research attention.

Originality/value

The study explains the connections and derivations between a wide range of firm failure models, from simpler linear models to advanced machine learning methods such as gradient boosting, random forests, adaptive boosting and deep learning. The paper highlights the most promising models for future research, particularly in terms of their predictive power, underlying statistical properties and issues of practical implementation. The study also draws together an extensive literature on alternative predictor variables and provides insights into the role and behaviour of alternative predictor variables in firm failure research.
Are environmental lawsuits related to the cost of bank loans?
Authors: Richardson Grant , Obaydin Ivan , Kent Pamela Fae
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Considering the importance of environmental lawsuits in the capital market specifically and society more generally, the authors examine whether environmental lawsuits are related to the cost of bank loans for the first time.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a US sample of 7,684 loans from 1,409 individual borrowing firms over the 1995–2015 period. The hypothesis is tested using lagged data from the year before the start of a bank loan, and firm fixed effects panel regression analysis is applied to control for correlated omitted variable bias. To further address endogeneity concerns, the authors use a difference in differences analysis that exploits the Deepwater Horizon oil spill on April 20, 2010, to establish causality. Finally, the authors use the entropy balancing method as an additional endogeneity check.

Findings

The authors find a positive relationship between environmental lawsuits and firms' bank loan costs. The results are economically significant. In particular, a one standard deviation increase in environmental lawsuits is related to a 2.07 basis point increase in bank loan costs. The results are robust to various endogeneity checks. Cross-sectional analyses indicate that a poor information environment, weak corporate governance, and low corporate social responsibility (CSR) levels strengthen the positive relationship between environmental lawsuits and bank loan costs. Finally, additional analyses show that environmental lawsuits are significantly negatively related to the loan amount and maturity contract provisions.

Originality/value

The authors provide new empirical evidence that increasing understanding of the economic consequences of environmental lawsuits on bank loan costs.
Venezuelan migration in Northern Brazil: a system dynamics approach for the internalization program
Authors: Ribeiro Thomas Pinto , Brito Jr Irineu de , Yoshizaki Hugo T.Y. , Froese Buzogany Raquel
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to present the internalization process by which Venezuelan migrants and refugees are resettled. Using system dynamics, the authors model a Brazilian humanitarian operation (“Acolhida” – Welcome), simulate the internalization process, propose policies and provide lessons learned for future migratory operations.

Design/methodology/approach

Using system dynamics simulation, the authors use Acolhida Operation’s historical data to recreate the reception and resettlement process of Venezuelan migrants and refugees. The authors identify the main bottlenecks in the system and propose policies to respond to scenarios according to the number of internalization vacancies, that is, available places in Brazil where migrants and refugees can be resettled. Finally, based on interviews with former decision-makers, the model represents a first attempt to convert the pressure of public opinion on authorities into temporary shelters as a way of reducing the number of unassisted people.

Findings

The results confirm that internalization vacancies are the main constraint when resettling Venezuelan migrants and refugees. Had the internalization program been promoted since the operation’s beginning, there would have been fewer unassisted people in Roraima and fewer shelters. The pressure-converting mechanism presented in this study, although incipient, constitutes a first attempt to support decision-makers in determining when to build temporary shelters.

Practical implications

This study can be useful to public authorities and humanitarian organizations when developing policies to enhance resettlement in migratory crises. In Acolhida’s case, the internalization program should continue to be the operation’s priority and can be enhanced by investing more resources to create internalization vacancies while maintaining logistical capacities.

Social implications

The authors suggest policies to improve the Acolhida internalization program: give more people the choice to relocate in other cities, increase turnover in shelters and provide a more efficient and effective response to Venezuelan migration in Roraima.

Originality/value

Although a number of studies have applied system dynamics to humanitarian operations, few models have focused on migratory emergencies, such as those occurring in northern Brazil. The model is applied to the largest humanitarian operation carried out in the Brazilian territory and provides decision-makers with valuable insights and alternatives for better implementation in the future. Furthermore, this study narrows the gap between the social sciences and modeling and simulation techniques by proposing ways of predicting migratory implications in the construction of shelters and resettlement policies.
Opening the black box of knowledge management mechanisms: exploring knowledge flows at a consultancy
Authors: Richter Janek , Basten Dirk , Michalik Bjoern , Rosenkranz Christoph , Smolnik Stefan
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Based on an exploratory case-based approach, the purpose of this paper is to open the KM black box and examine the relationships that link knowledge management (KM) inputs (i.e. knowledge resources and KM practices) via knowledge processes to KM performance. This paper aims to identify the underlying mechanisms and explain how KM performance is enabled.

Design/methodology/approach

This in-depth case study conducted at a medium-sized consultancy in the supply chain management industry empirically examines knowledge flows to uncover the relationships between KM inputs, knowledge processes and KM performance. We adopt the viable system model (VSM) as a theoretical lens to identify KM mechanisms.

Findings

By identifying six KM mechanisms, we contribute to the theoretical understanding of how KM inputs are interconnected and lead to KM performance via knowledge processes.

Originality/value

Based on the insights gained, we provide propositions that organizations should consider in designing viable KM. Our findings help organizations in understanding their KM with the help of knowledge flow analysis and identifying how critical KM elements are interconnected.
An optimal thoracoscopic segmentectomy approach: Combined ultra‐high‐definition 4K endovision systems with “no‐waiting” technique in S8‐9 complex segmentectomy
Authors: Liang Mingqiang , Wang Liang , Gao Jiabin , Duan Zhiliang , Xu Jinhai , Wang Yifang , Li Shixin , Wang Bowen , Chen Chun
Published: March 2023

Thoracoscopic segmentectomy might be an alternative to lobectomy for small size lung cancer. Precise identification of the pulmonary intersegmental plane was needed for an optimal segmentectomy. Recently, (1) the ultra‐high‐definition 4K systems had claimed to overcome the lack of depth perception by secondary visual cues; (2) the no‐waiting procedure was induced as an alternative and optimized method for identifying the plane. It was unclear whether combined ultra‐high‐definition 4K endovision systems with “no‐waiting” technique in thoracoscopic segmentectomy could achieve an excellent result. A 68‐year‐old female patient was admitted into our hospital for occasional pulmonary nodule during her routine physical examination. The nodule is located between S8 and S9 segment, and was suspected to be an early‐stage lung cancer. She underwent a thoracoscopic S89 complex segmentectomy using ultra‐high‐definition 4K endovision systems and “no‐waiting” surgical technique. The intersegmental plane was clearly detected and easily treated by the endoscopic linear cutting staplers. The patient recovered well and was discharged without complications. Combining ultra‐high‐definition 4K endovision systems with “no‐waiting” technique seems to be an optimal thoracoscopic segmentectomy approach for the management of lung cancers.
CALML5 is a novel diagnostic marker for differentiating thymic squamous cell carcinoma from type B3 thymoma
Authors: Kanamori Koichiro , Suina Kentaro , Shukuya Takehito , Takahashi Fumiyuki , Hayashi Takuo , Hara Kieko , Saito Tsuyoshi , Mitsuishi Yoichiro , Shimamura Shoko Sonobe , Winardi Wira , Tajima Ken , Ko Ryo , Mimori Tomoyasu , Asao Tetsuhiko , Itoh Masayoshi , Kawaji Hideya , Suehara Yoshiyuki , Takamochi Kazuya , Suzuki Kenji , Takahashi Kazuhisa
Published: March 2023

Background

Thymic squamous cell carcinoma and type B3 thymoma are primary neoplasms of the anterior mediastinum that are sometimes difficult to differentiate from one another histologically. However, only a few immunohistochemical markers are available for the differential diagnosis. The purpose of this study was to discover a novel marker for differentiating between thymic squamous cell carcinoma and type B3 thymoma.

Methods

We used histological samples of thymic carcinomas (n = 26) and type B3 thymomas (n = 38) which were resected between 1986 and 2017. To search for candidates of differential markers, gene expression levels were evaluated in samples using promoter analysis by cap analysis of gene expression (CAGE) sequencing.

Results

Promoter level expression of CALML5 genes was significantly higher in thymic carcinomas than in type B3 thymomas. We further validated the results of the CAGE analysis in all 26 thymic carcinomas and 38 type B3 thymomas by immunohistochemistry (IHC). CALML5 was strongly expressed in the cytoplasm in 19 of 26 cases with thymic carcinoma, whereas positivity at the protein level was shown in two of 38 type B3 thymomas. Thus, the sensitivity (73.1%) and specificity (94.7%) of CALML5 as markers for immunohistochemical diagnosis of thymic carcinoma were extremely high.

Conclusion

We identified CALML5 as a potential marker for differentiating thymic squamous cell carcinoma from type B3 thymoma. It is assumed that future clinical use of CALML5 may improve the diagnostic accuracy of differentiating between these two diseases.
Toward a general equilibrium theory of financial reporting
Authors: Bertomeu Jeremy , Cheynel Edwige
Published: March 2023

We present a model in which investment capacity is reallocated in response to aggregate shocks and examine the resulting general equilibrium effects. The theory predicts a positive association between aggregate liquidity shocks, cost of capital, and conservative accounting. When capital becomes scarce, the accounting system is designed to preserve collateral, which depletes the supply of traded capital and leads to a higher cost of capital. The economy may accelerate small shocks with large (discontinuous) readjustments in financial reporting policies, cost of capital, and investment activity. We show that accounting policies set by firms to increase their market value may imply multiple equilibria, with self‐fulfilling inefficient equilibria exhibiting excessive collateral requirements and reduced aggregate investment.
Preoperative anxiety level is not associated with postoperative negative behavioral changes in premedicated children
Authors: Zickerman Caroline , Brorsson Camilla , Hultin Magnus , Johansson Göran , Winsö Ola , Haney Michael
Published: March 2023

Background

Anesthesia preinduction anxiety in children can according to some studies lead to long‐term anxiety and negative behavioral changes (NBC), while other studies have not found this effect. This secondary analysis from a recent premedication trial comparing clonidine and midazolam aimed to test the relation between preoperative anxiety assessed with modified Yale Preoperative Anxiety Scale (mYPAS) and postoperative NBCs assessed with Post Hospital Behavior Questionnaire (PHBQ), regardless of premedication type.

Methods

This is a planned secondary analysis from a published premedication comparison trial in an outpatient surgery cohort, children aged 2–7 years. Participant and preoperative factors, particularly preoperative anxiety as mYPAS scores, were assessed for association with development of postoperative NBCs.

Results

Fifty‐four of the 115 participants had high preinduction anxiety (mYPAS >30), and 19 of 115 developed >3 postoperative NBCs 1 week after surgery. There was no association between preinduction anxiety level as mYPAS scores and the development of postoperative NBCs at 1 week after surgery (10 of 19 had both, p = .62) nor after 4‐ or 26‐weeks post‐surgery. Only lower age was associated with development of NBCs postoperatively.

Conclusions

Based on the findings from this cohort, high preinduction anxiety does not appear to be associated with NBCs postoperatively in children premedicated with clonidine or midazolam.
Refractory out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest and extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation: A meta‐analysis of randomized trials
Authors: Scquizzato Tommaso , Bonaccorso Alessandra , Swol Justyna , Gamberini Lorenzo , Scandroglio Anna Mara , Landoni Giovanni , Zangrillo Alberto
Published: March 2023

Background

In adults with refractory out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest, when conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) alone does not achieve return of spontaneous circulation, extracorporeal CPR is attempted to restore perfusion and improve outcomes. Considering the contrasting findings of recent studies, we conducted a meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials to ascertain the effect of extracorporeal CPR on survival and neurological outcome.

Methods

Pubmed via MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched up to February 3, 2023, for randomized controlled trials comparing extracorporeal CPR versus conventional CPR in adults with refractory out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest. Survival with a favorable neurological outcome at the longest follow‐up available was the primary outcome.

Results

Among four randomized controlled trials included, extracorporeal CPR compared with conventional CPR increased survival with favorable neurological outcome at the longest follow‐up available for all rhythms (59/220 [27%] vs. 39/213 [18%]; OR = 1.72; 95% CI, 1.09–2.70; p = 0.02; I2 = 26%; number needed to treat of 9), for initial shockable rhythms only (55/164 [34%] vs. 38/165 [23%]; OR = 1.90; 95% CI, 1.16–3.13; p = 0.01; I2 = 23%; number needed to treat of 7), and at hospital discharge or 30 days (55/220 [25%] vs. 34/212 [16%]; OR = 1.82; 95% CI, 1.13–2.92; p = 0.01; I2 = 0.0%). Overall survival at the longest follow‐up available was similar (61/220 [25%] vs. 34/212 [16%]; OR = 1.82; 95% CI, 1.13–2.92; p = 0.59; I2 = 58%).

Conclusions

Extracorporeal CPR compared with conventional CPR increased survival with favorable neurological outcome in adults with refractory out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest, especially when the initial rhythm was shockable.

Review Registration

PROSPERO CRD42023396482.
Diagnostic accuracy of retinal optical coherence tomography in children with a newly diagnosed brain tumour
Authors: Nuijts Myrthe A. , Stegeman Inge , Porro Giorgio L. , Bennebroek Carlien A. M. , van Seeters Tom , Proudlock Frank A. , Schouten – van Meeteren Antoinette Y. N. , Imhof Saskia M.
Published: March 2023

Purpose

To estimate the diagnostic accuracy of circumpapillary retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thickness and macular ganglion cell layer–inner plexiform layer (GCL‐IPL) thickness measurements to discriminate an abnormal visual function (i.e. abnormal age‐based visual acuity and/or visual field defect) in children with a newly diagnosed brain tumour.

Methods

This cross‐sectional analysis of a prospective longitudinal nationwide cohort study was conducted at four hospitals in the Netherlands, including the national referral centre for paediatric oncology. Patients aged 0–18 years with a newly diagnosed brain tumour and reliable visual acuity and/or visual field examination and optical coherence tomography were included. Diagnostic accuracy was evaluated with sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV).

Results

Of 115 patients included in the study (67 [58.3%] male; median age 10.6 years [range, 0.2–17.8 years]), reliable RNFL thickness and GCL‐IPL thickness measurements were available in 92 patients (80.0%) and 84 patients (73.0%), respectively. The sensitivity for detecting an abnormal visual function was 74.5% for average RNFL thickness and 41.7% for average GCL‐IPL thickness at a specificity of 44.5% and 82.9%, respectively. The PPV and NPV were 33.0% and 82.6% for the average RNFL thickness and 57.1% and 82.2% for the average GCL‐IPL thickness.

Conclusion

An abnormal visual function was discriminated correctly by using the average RNFL thickness in seven out of ten patients and by using the average GCL‐IPL thickness in four out of ten patients. The relatively high NPVs signified that patients with normal average RNFL thickness and average GCL‐IPL thickness measurements had a relative high certainty of a normal visual function.
Prevalence of residual amblyopia in adulthood and its association on educational outcome and quality of life in the Northern Finland Birth Cohort
Authors: Liinamaa M. Johanna , Leiviskä Ilmari L. , Saarela Ville O.
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the prevalence of residual amblyopia in adults in a population screened and treated in childhood. We also wanted to evaluate the association of amblyopia on school success, level of education, and quality of life.

Methods

This is a follow‐up study of 2708 subjects of the Northern Finland Birth Cohort. At the age of 46, the subjects took part in ophthalmic examinations, including the measurement of best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and refraction. Residual amblyopia was defined as BCVA 20/30 or less (logMAR ≥0.2) in one or both eyes or a two‐line interocular visual acuity difference and absence of any pathological ocular factors. The quality of life was assessed with a 15D questionnaire, and educational outcome, school success, and episodic memory with a CANTAB‐PAL (paired associates learning) test were evaluated.

Results

The prevalence of amblyopia in the current adult population aged 46 years was 1.3% (n = 36). At 14 years, the amblyopia subjects had had significant differences in mean spherical equivalent between the amblyopic and fellow eye and strabismus more often than controls. No significant differences were observed in the CANTAB‐PAL test or in educational outcome. However, amblyopia subjects had significant difficulties in the 15D questionnaire in terms of vision (54% vs. 34%, p = 0.01).

Conclusion

Due to screening and treatment in childhood, the number of adults with residual amblyopia was low. Despite minor visual impairment and discomfort, they cope very well in life in terms of educational outcome and quality of life.
When gender is more likely to predict pay via self‐enhancement values and working hours: The role of country's level of gender inequality
Authors: Masuda Aline D. , Sortheix Florencia M. , Holtschlag Claudia , Morales Carlos
Published: March 2023

Building upon situational strength and biosocial constructionist theories, we test the indirect effect of gender on pay via self‐enhancement values (e.g. power and achievement) and working hours. We also examine the moderating role of country‐level inequality on that mediated link. The results of multilevel regressions with 16,352 respondents nested in 28 European countries support the hypotheses that men are more likely to prioritise self‐enhancement values, to work more hours than women and consequently receive higher earnings. The indirect effect of gender on pay via self‐enhancement values and working hours was stronger for gender‐equal countries. The link between gender and working hours was moderated by country‐level inequality. In gender‐equal countries, the differences in working hours for men and women were larger than in gender‐unequal countries. We discuss the implications of our findings for creating policies that promote gender equality in salary.