bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short-chain carboxylates facilitate the counting of yeasts in Sub-high temperatureDaqu
Authors: Ren Zhiqiang , Xie Juan , Tang Tuoxian , Huang Zhiguo
Published: December 2023

Sub-high temperature Daqu is a traditional solid fermenting agent that produces Chinese strong-aroma Baijiu. It is abundant in various microorganisms, including bacteria, yeasts, molds, and actinomycetes, of which yeasts play a crucial role in ethanol production and flavor formation. Counting yeasts in Daqu is difficult due to the interference of molds and bacteria. Antibiotics are employed to inhibit bacterial growth, but there is no effective way to suppress molds without affecting the growth of yeasts. In this study, short-chain carboxylates (C1-C6) were added to the culture medium at various pH conditions to investigate their effects on the growth of molds and yeasts. Results showed that they have distinct inhibitory effects in a pH-and concentration-dependent manner. A few of these tested short-chain carboxylates effectively suppress mold growth in agar plates without affecting yeast growth. Herein, a simple and feasible method for improving the efficiency of yeast isolation and counting in Daqu has been proposed, which may be useful for studying yeasts from complex habitats.
Evolution of Multicellularity Genes in the Lead Up to the Great Oxidation Event
Authors: Boden Joanne S. , Nieves-Morión Mercedes , Nürnberg Dennis J. , Arévalo Sergio , Flores Enrique , Sánchez-Baracaldo Patricia
Published: December 2023

Cyanobacteria are among the most morphologically diverse prokaryotic phyla on Earth. Their morphotypes range from unicellular to multicellular filaments, yet mechanisms underlying the evolution of filamentous morphologies remain unknown. Here, we implement phylogenomic, Bayesian molecular clock and gene-tree-species-tree reconciliation analyses to estimate when genes encoding cell-cell joining structures first evolved. We also characterise septal structures and measure intercellular communication rates in non-model and early-branching filamentous strains. Our results suggest that genes encoding septal proteins (namelysepJ, sepI,andfraE) and potentially pattern formation (hetR) evolved in the Neoarchaean ∼2.6-2.7 billion years (Ga) ago. Later, at the start of the Great Oxygenation Event ∼2.5 Ga, genes involved in cellular differentiation (namelyhetZ, patU3andhglK) appeared. Our results predict that early-branching lineages likePseudanabaenawere capable of intercellular communication, but further innovations in cellular differentiation were needed to drive ecological expansion on a scale large enough to permanently oxygenate Earth’s atmosphere.
Mechanism of human PINK1 activation at the TOM complex in a reconstituted system
Authors: Raimi Olawale G. , Ojha Hina , Ehses Kenneth , Dederer Verena , Lange Sven M , Rivera Cristian Polo , Deegan Tom D. , Chen Yinchen , Wightman Melanie , Toth Rachel , Labib Karim P. M. , Mathea Sebastian , Ranson Neil , Fernández-Busnadiego Rubén , Muqit Miratul M. K.
Published: December 2023

Loss of function mutations in PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1) are a frequent cause of early-onset Parkinson’s disease (PD). Stabilisation of PINK1 at the Translocase of Outer Membrane (TOM) complex of damaged mitochondria is a critical step for its activation. To date the mechanism of how PINK1 is activated in the TOM complex is unclear. Herein we report co-expression of human PINK1 and all seven TOM subunits inSaccharomyces cerevisiaeis sufficient for PINK1 activation. We use this reconstitution system to systematically assess the role of each TOM subunit towards PINK1 activation. We unambiguously demonstrate that the TOM20 and TOM70 receptor subunits are required for optimal PINK1 activation and map their sites of interaction with PINK1 using AlphaFold structural modelling and mutagenesis. We also demonstrate an essential role of the pore-containing subunit TOM40 and its structurally associated subunits TOM7 and TOM22 for PINK1 activation. These molecular findings will aid in the development of small molecule activators of PINK1 as a therapeutic strategy for PD.
Change in US farm sector's financial position and performance in 2020 compared to pre-pandemic expectations: An analysis using financial ratios
Authors: Giri Anil K. , Litkowski Carrie , Subedi Dipak , McDonald Tia M.
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine how US farm sector performed in 2020, the first year of the pandemic. There were significant supply and demand shocks due to the pandemic. Furthermore, there was significant fluctuation in commodity prices and record high government payments in 2020. This study aims to examine the performance and position of US farm sector (financially) to system (and global economy) wide shocks.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors examine 2020 values for farm sector financial ratios before and after the onset of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic using the data from the United States Department of Agriculture to understand the financial position and performance of the US farm sector.

Findings

The authors find solvency ratios (which are indicators of the sector's ability to repay financial liabilities via the sale of assets) worsened in 2020 relative to pre-pandemic expectations. Efficiency ratios (which evaluate the conversion of assets into production and revenue) and liquidity ratios (which are indicators of the availability of cash to cover debt payments) showed mixed outcomes for the realized results in 2020 relative to the pre-pandemic forecasts. Four profitability ratios were stronger in 2020 relative to pre-pandemic expectations. All solvency, liquidity and profitability ratios plus 2 out of 5 efficiency ratios for 2020 were weaker than their respective average ratios obtained from 2000 to 2019 data.

Originality/value

This research is one of the first papers to use financial ratios to examine how the US farm sector performed in 2020 compared to expectations prior to the pandemic.
Subjective preferences, liquidity constraints and price risk management under large-scale farm management
Authors: Peng Peng , Xu Zhigang
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Large-scale farm management in China has developed rapidly in recent years. Large-scale farmers face substantial operating risks, requiring extensive price risk management. However, the agricultural insurance and futures markets in China are incomplete. This study aims to analyze the price-risk-management behaviors of large-scale farmers under incomplete market conditions, with a focus on the interconnections between large scale farmers' subjective preferences (risk preferences, time preferences), liquidity constraints and their price risk management.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors construct an analysis framework to reveal the impact of large-scale farmers' risk preferences, time preferences and liquidity conditions on their price-risk-management behaviors under incomplete market conditions. Using data from field surveys and subjective preference experiments involving 409 large-scale grain farmers in China, an empirical analysis was conducted using the bivariate probit model.

Findings

The results show that risk-averse farmers will use risk transfer (such as contract farming) and risk diversification (such as multi-period sales) to avoid price risk. However, farmers subject to liquidity constraints and strong time preferences will not choose risk diversification, and the interaction between time preferences and liquidity constraints will strengthen this decision. The larger the farm-management scale, the greater the impact.

Originality/value

The authors focus on rapidly developed large-scale farm management in China. Appropriate price risk management is required by large-scale farmers due to their substantial operating risks. Considering the incomplete conditions of agricultural insurance and futures markets, the results of this study will help identify behavioral characteristics of large-scale farmers and optimize their price-risk-management strategies, further stabilizing large-scale farm management.
Beyond the boss: how distributed leadership elevates team effectiveness in startup organizations? – a multi-level analysis
Authors: Shagirbasha Shameem , Madhan Kumar , Iqbal Juman
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Though there is an increasing corpus of work on contemporary styles of leadership, studies on distributed leadership (DL) are still in the nascent stage. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to investigate how DL affects team effectiveness from the neglected perspectives of team cognition, team motivation and team coordination in startup companies using multi-level analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors investigated the study variables through the lens of 42 teams in 18 startup organizations operating in India, representing an equitable distribution of the manufacturing and service sectors. M-plus was used to do statistical analysis on the multi-level model.

Findings

Drawing upon social exchange theory (SET), results indicated that DL had a favorable impact on team effectiveness and team cognitive processes, team motivation and team coordination mediates the association between DL and individual perceptions of team effectiveness.

Originality/value

Various studies have been carried out relating to leadership and how it impacts effectiveness. However, as far as the authors know, previous studies have failed to empirically address how DL drives team effectiveness by uncovering the mediating impact of team cognitive processes, team motivation and team coordination in the Indian startup context.
The non-sleepy neurotic: the role of a good night’s sleep for daily self-regulatory resources and vitality at work
Authors: Junça Silva Ana , Mosteo Leticia , Rueff Rita
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Relying on the effort-recovery model, this study aimed to test how and when a good night’s sleep increases in daily physical health. The authors hypothesized that when individuals have a good night’s sleep, it helps them to recover their self-regulatory resources, and, in turn, these cognitive resources improve their physical health experienced at work. Furthermore, the authors argue that this will be different depending on the individuals’ levels of neuroticism; that is, the indirect relationship between sleep duration and physical health through self-regulatory resources will be stronger for individuals who score lower on neuroticism, and in contrast, the relationship will be buffered for those who score higher on neuroticism.

Design/methodology/approach

To test the hypothesized model, the authors conducted a three-wave longitudinal study with working adults (N = 262). The authors used multilevel modelling to test if neuroticism moderated the indirect relationship between sleep duration and physical health through self-regulatory resources, at both between and within-person levels.

Findings

The multilevel results showed that a good night’s sleep recovered self-regulatory resources needed to promote physical health; however, this indirect relationship was buffered for those who scored higher on neuroticism (versus lower levels of neuroticism).

Practical implications

Hence, the role of neuroticism as a potentially harming condition for employees’ physical health is pointed out.

Originality/value

The findings highlight the relevance of sleep as a recovery activity for both cognitive and physical resources experienced during the working day. However, this appears to be attenuated for employees with higher levels of neuroticism.
The nexus between cash conversion cycle and operating performance: novel evidence from MENA region
Authors: Yilmaz Ilker , Nobanee Haitham
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This article examines the relationship between the cash conversion cycle (CCC) and profitability in countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used dynamic panel methodology to analyze a dataset consisting of 395 firms from nonfinancial sectors in the MENA countries from 2013 to 2018. The authors developed several models consisting of different measures of profitability, CCC and the components of CCC. The control variables were used in the models at different levels.

Findings

The results bring out a significantly positive relationship between the CCC and profitability. However, mixed results have been obtained for industry and country details. The quadratic model revealed an inverted U-shaped relationship and the presence of an optimal point of CCC. The robustness checks have confirmed the results of the main models.

Practical implications

The results of the study imply that corporate managers and policymakers ought to pay equal attention to the components of CCC when developing working capital policies and be aware of the optimal level of CCC.

Originality/value

This paper handles the endogeneity problem that is inherent in the relationship. It investigates and confirms the nonlinear characteristics of the relationship. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this study is the first to use dynamic panel models to examine the CCC and its relationship with profitability in the MENA context.
Exploring the importance of the perceived value of port users: evidence from the public port system in Ecuador
Authors: Pedraza-Rodríguez José Antonio , García-Briones Martha Yadira , Mora-Márquez César
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This article aims to explore the concept of chain value of the public port system in Ecuador from the perspective of importing/exporting companies, analyzing how perceived value in the use of port services affects customer satisfaction and the intermediate links of the influence of trust and commitment on customer loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach

Relying on a survey of 634 Ecuadorian companies with experience in international trade as port users and a theoretical framework well-established in the literature on consumer behavior, the empirical study found evidence of a positive and significant relationship with the knowledge of chain effects.

Findings

The findings confirm the chain effect and reveal ways to maintain an ongoing satisfactory, trust and committed relationship with users, thereby ultimately gaining and maintaining their loyalty. The conclusions suggest how this postulate can help to close the gap referred to the effective management of port services, and point out that port managers should be concerned with a continuous in-depth understanding of the perceived value and its chain effects.

Originality/value

The authors add evidence of the use of the postulate of the chain of effects on these dimensions, whose applicability is very well established, tested and consensual for the doctrine in industrial marketing. In contrast, it is scarcely present in the port relationship with its users.
Blockchain technology and its applications in digital accounting systems: insights from Jordanian context
Authors: Al-Okaily Manaf , Al-Majali Dmaithan , Al-Okaily Aws , Majali Tha’er
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The recent progress of digital accounting has significantly affected businesses’ sustainable production process. Businesses generally use digital accounting applications to automate their operational procedures and increase their corporate efficiencies through improved output quality and sustainability. Consequently, the purpose of this study is to look into the antecedent factors that directly and indirectly influence blockchain technology adoption in the context of digital accounting systems.

Design/methodology/approach

The data of the current study were obtained from 346 accountants working in information technology companies. Partial least squares structural equation modeling was used to test the research proposal model.

Findings

The empirical results confirmed that the adoption of blockchain technology is most considerably impacted by perceived usefulness, whereby it was also revealed that perceived ease of use has a direct and indirect effect on blockchain technology adoption.

Originality/value

According to the researchers’ knowledge, this study addresses a vital research gap in the literature by suggesting a comprehensive research model that can help garner enhanced usage of blockchain technology and its implications in digital accounting systems in the Jordanian context.
Smartness unleashed: a multilevel model for understanding consumers' perceptions and adoption across a myriad of smart offerings
Authors: Fricke Antje , Pieper Nadine , Woisetschläger David M.
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Consumers' perceptions of product intelligence affect their willingness to accept smart offerings. This paper explores how people perceive various smart products based on their smartness profiles, composed of five distinct smartness facets. Additionally, the study investigates how these perceptions of product intelligence impact consumers' evaluation of factors that either promote or impede the adoption of smart products. These factors are examined as potential mediators in the adoption process. This paper aims to determine if the value-based adoption model can be applied to a broad range of smart service systems.

Design/methodology/approach

Consumers assessed one of 28 smart products in a scenario-based quantitative study. Multilevel structural equation modeling (SEM) is used to test the conceptual model, taking the nested data structure into account.

Findings

The findings show that product smartness essentially enhances usage intention via adoption drivers (enjoyment and usefulness) and reduces usage intention via adoption barriers (intrusiveness). In particular, the ability to interact in a humanlike manner increases the benefits consumers perceive, which in turn increases consumer acceptance. Only the smartness characteristic of awareness impairs usage intention, mediated by the perceived benefits of enjoyment and usefulness.

Originality/value

In contrast to previous research, which usually focuses on single smart products, this work examines a variety of different products, which allows for better transferability of the results to other smart offerings. Furthermore, prior research has mainly focused on single facets of product smartness or researched smartness on an aggregated level. By considering the consumer perception of each smartness facet, the authors gain deeper insights into the perceptual differences regarding product smartness and how this affects technology adoption via conflicting key acceptance drivers and barriers.
Drivers of electric vehicle adoption: the moderating role of technological innovativeness
Authors: Alyousef Mohammed B. , Weiger Welf H. , Shaltoni Abdelmonim
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This research examines the drivers of electric vehicle (EV) acceptance in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) by applying the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model, contextualized for the EV setting. The study aims to provide insights supporting the transition to sustainable transportation and identifying consumer perceptions and behavioral intentions toward EV adoption.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on survey data from a convenience sample collected from undergraduate and MBA students in a major university of KSA, the authors use seemingly unrelated regressions to provide novel insights on electric vehicle acceptance.

Findings

The study shows UTAUT constructs influence purchase intentions and attitudinal outcomes. Results indicate that perceived EV sustainability plays an important role in the relationship between UTAUT constructs and purchase intention alongside attitudes toward EV technology. Technological innovativeness enhances the impact of EV attitude and weakens the effect of perceived EV sustainability on purchase intention.

Research limitations/implications

The study benefits researchers on sustainable technology acceptance and stakeholders facilitating sustainable transportation shifts. The insights guide the promotion of eco-friendly transportation solutions.

Originality/value

The research contextualizes and extends the UTAUT model constructs to understand drivers of EV acceptance. The study contributes to understanding sustainable innovation acceptance, considering the mediating role of perceptions of EV sustainability and the moderating role of technological innovativeness in driving purchase intentions.
Poetic inquiry: a tool for decolonising qualitative research
Authors: Cooms Samantha , Saunders Vicki
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Poetic inquiry is an approach that promotes alternate perspectives about what research means and speaks to more diverse audiences than traditional forms of research. Across academia, there is increasing attention to decolonising research. This reflects a shift towards research methods that recognise, acknowledge and appreciate diverse ways of knowing, being and doing. The purpose of this paper is to explore the different ways in which poetic inquiry communicates parallax to further decolonise knowledge production and dissemination and centre First Nations’ ways of knowing, being and doing.

Design/methodology/approach

This manuscript presents two First Nations’ perspectives on a methodological approach that is decolonial and aligns with Indigenous ways of knowing, being and doing. In trying to frame this diversity through Indigenous standpoint theory (Foley, 2003), the authors present two First Nation’s women's autoethnographic perspectives through standpoint and poetics on the role of poetic inquiry and parallax in public pedagogy and decolonising research (Frederickset al., 2019; Moreton-Robinson, 2000).

Findings

The key to understanding poetic inquiry is parallax, the shift in an object, perspective or thinking that comes with a change in the observer's position or perspective. Challenging dominant research paradigms is essential for the continued evolution of research methodologies and to challenge the legacy that researchers have left in colonised countries. The poetic is often invisible/unrecognised in the broader Indigenist research agenda; however, it is a powerful tool in decolonial research in the way it disrupts core assumptions about and within research and can effectively engage with those paradoxes that decolonising research tends to uncover.

Practical implications

Poetic inquiry is not readily accepted in academia; however, it is a medium that is well suited to communicating diverse ways of knowing and has a history of being embraced by First Nations peoples in Australia. Embracing poetic inquiry in qualitative research offers a unique approach to decolonising knowledge and making space for Indigenous ways of knowing, being and doing.

Social implications

Poetic inquiry offers a unique approach to centring First Nations voices, perspectives and experiences to reduce hegemonic assumptions in qualitative research.

Originality/value

Writing about poetic inquiry and decolonisation from a First Nations’ perspective using poetry is a novel and nuanced approach to discussions around First Nations ways of knowing, being and doing.
Potential of virtual reality to meaningfully engage adults living with dementia in care settings: A scoping review
Authors: To'mah Vivianne , du Toit Sanetta Henrietta Johanna
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Older adults living with dementia in residential aged care homes receive physical care but may have limited access to meaningful engagement. Due to its multimodal and versatile nature, virtual reality (VR) is speculated to be an effective means of meaningfully engaging residents individually and/or in groups. However, there is little evidence regarding its efficacy as a means of meaningfully engaging older adults living with dementia. The objective of this scoping review is to identify and synthesise published research investigating the use of VR technology in promoting the meaningful engagement of older adults living with dementia in residential aged care facilities.

Methods

A scoping review following Arksey and O'Malley's (2005) established process was conducted and included identifying and selecting relevant studies from seven databases (i.e., AgeLine, CINAHL, Medline, Cochrane, Embase, PsycINFO and Scopus), data charting, and collating, summarising and reporting findings. Two independent reviewers used Covidence and Excel to support data extraction and analysis.

Results

The 20 eligible studies revealed discrepancies in the classification of VR and strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats associated with its implementation. Findings indicate that the most influential factor in eliciting meaningful engagement is when VR use facilitates interpersonal interactions and opportunities for human connection.

Conclusion

Although VR seems to be a promising medium in engaging older adults living with dementia, the efficacy of implementing VR technology within care facilities should be considered alongside potential environmental enablers and barriers. The apparent strength of implementing VR as a means of encouraging restoration, pleasure and productivity in older adults living with dementia lies in the fact that it creates opportunities for meaningful engagement on social and occupational levels.
Understanding Society: the income data
Authors: Fisher Paul , Hussein Omar
Published: December 2023

We introduce the income data of Understanding Society, the UK Household Longitudinal Study. First, we show that the data are widely used in academic and policy research. We then discuss the pros and cons of different types of data on household incomes. We go on to describe the income content of Understanding Society, emphasising key details of data collection and data processing – specifically the derivation of net household income totals. We perform a quality assessment that compares Understanding Society estimates of net household incomes to those from a reliable cross‐sectional source – the Households Below Average Income series. We conclude that the Understanding Society income data are of high quality, and so are an excellent source for research on the income distribution or incomes more generally. We finish with a discussion of future directions for income data collection in the study.
A symposium on Understanding Society, the UK Household Longitudinal Study: introduction
Authors: Benzeval Michaela , Crossley Thomas F. , Aguirre Edith
Published: December 2023

Understanding Society, the UK Household Longitudinal Study began in 2009, and built on and incorporated its predecessor the British Household Panel Survey. It is the largest survey of its kind in the world and provides rich opportunities for economic research and policy analysis. In this introduction to a symposium on Understanding Society, we review the main features of the study, how it is conducted, and evidence on data quality. We also discuss past and potential uses in economic research.
Quantification of psilocin in human whole blood using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS)
Authors: Gomonit Munchelou M. , Skillman Britni , Swortwood Madeleine J.
Published: December 2023

There has been burgeoning interest in psilocybin‐use for the treatment of various neurological and neurodegenerative diseases. Psilocybin is mistakenly perceived as the principal pharmacologically active compound due to its high concentrations found in magic mushrooms; however, it is the prodrug of psilocin. Despite the expanding body of clinical research seeking to understand the pharmacodynamic/pharmacokinetic properties of psilocin, and its role in inducing dramatic changes to cognitive function, there has not been a corresponding increase in the development of sensitive analytical methods that can quantify psilocin in different biological fluids. Existing analytical methods have been developed using plasma, serum, and urine as the matrix of choice, but with the unknown blood‐to‐plasma ratio of psilocin, any pharmacokinetic conclusions drawn solely on plasma data may be misleading. Thus, the main objective of this study is to develop the first analytical method that utilizes SPE and LC–MS/MS to quantify psilocin in human whole blood. The SPE procedure yielded a high recovery efficiency (≥89%) with minimal matrix effects. The method was validated according to ANSI/ASB 036 guidelines. Linearity was between 0.7–200 ng/mL and encompassed previously reported ranges found in plasma/serum. Bias, within‐ and between‐run precision for all quality controls met ANSI/ASB 036 acceptability criteria. Endogenous/exogenous interferences and carryover were negligible. Psilocin stability was assessed at 4°C over 48 h and was considered stable. Although a proof‐of‐concept study will need to be performed to characterize the method, this analytical workflow was able to detect and quantify psilocin in human whole blood at low limits of quantification.
The effect of larval age, and wet and dry grafting, on the rearing of queen bees using the Doolittle grafting method
Authors: Rehman Nabeel Ur , Anjum Syed Ishtiaq , Qureshi Naveeda Akhtar , Khan Muhammad Hameed , Albasher Gadah , Kaleem Muhammad , Kamal Asif
Published: December 2023

Honey, which is medicinally very important, is the major product of honeybees. The role of the honeybee queen is crucial in maintaining the health and stability of the colony as it is responsible for reproducing and maintaining the population of the hive. Productive and healthy honeybee queens ensure the success of the colony. Various factors, such as parasites, diseases, lack of food and habitat, climate change, genetic defects, and exposure to pesticides, can lead to the failure of the queen bee. Therefore, applications of artificial queen‐rearing techniques in beekeeping positively affect the growth of honeybee queens with desirable characteristics. This current research was conducted at the KUST Model Bee Form of Kohat University of Science and Technology, on Apis mellifera honeybee colonies during spring 2021. In this study, the Doolittle grafting method was used for the rearing of the A. mellifera queen bee. A total of 230 larvae of different ages (12–24, 24–48, and 48–72 h old larvae were used for grafting. Of these 230 grafted larvae, the number of queen cup cells accepted was 139 and the number of emerged queen cup cells was 82. The queen cell acceptance rate was significant (P = 0.000; P < 0.05). The effect of larval age, and the addition of royal jelly in queen cup cells prior to grafting, on the acceptance rate of queen cup cells was also studied. Young larvae, that is, from 12–24 up to 48 h of age, showed high acceptance rates. The acceptance rates of 12–24, 24–48 and 48–72 h old larvae were 76.7%, 55.7% and 20.0%, respectively. This shows that a queen produced from a 1 day old larva has the highest acceptance rate. The addition of royal jelly into queen cup cells before grafting showed the highest larval acceptance rate in March and April. In this study the acceptance rate for queen cup cells with wet and dry grafting were 89.5% and 46.1%, respectively. However further studies are recommended to determine the effect of all factors on the morphology of the queen.
Efficacy and safety of intravenous belimumab in a subgroup of South Korean patients with systemic lupus erythematosus enrolled into a Phase 3, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial in North East Asia
Authors: Suh Chang‐Hee , Lee Yoonhee , Yoo Sang‐Bae , Quasny Holly , Navarro Rojas Aldo Amador , Hammer Anne , Song Yeong‐Wook , Kang Young Mo , Cho Chul‐Soo , Park Won , Kwok Seung‐Ki , Lee Seung‐Geun , Chung Won Tae , Bae Sang‐Cheol
Published: December 2023

Aim

This post hoc analysis evaluated the efficacy and safety of intravenous belimumab 10 mg/kg in the South Korean subgroup of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) enrolled in the North East Asia (NEA) study (GSK Study BEL113750; NCT01345253).

Methods

NEA was a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, randomized Phase 3 trial. Patients with active, autoantibody‐positive SLE were randomized 2:1 to belimumab or placebo plus standard therapy administered on Days 0, 14, and 28, and then every 28 days up to Week 48. The primary efficacy endpoint in this analysis was SLE Responder Index 4 (SRI‐4) response rate at Week 52, defined as the proportion of patients achieving a ≥4‐point reduction in Safety of Estrogens in Lupus Erythematosus National Assessment‐SLE Disease Activity Index (SELENA‐SLEDAI) score, no worsening (<0.3 increase from baseline) in Physician Global Assessment, no new British Isles Lupus Assessment Group (BILAG) A domain and <2 new BILAG B domain scores.

Results

Among 100 South Korean patients enrolled in NEA, 54/66 (81.8%) belimumab‐ and 24/34 (70.6%) placebo‐treated patients completed the double‐blind phase. Significantly more belimumab‐ than placebo‐treated patients achieved SRI‐4 response at Week 52 (n = 35/66, 53.0% vs. n = 8/34, 23.5%; odds ratio [OR; 95% confidence interval (CI)]: 3.67 [1.45, 9.28]; p = .0061). The proportion of patients experiencing ≥1 adverse event was similar between groups (belimumab: n = 60/66, 90.9% vs. placebo: n = 31/34, 91.2%). No new safety signals emerged in this subgroup analysis.

Conclusion

Belimumab was efficacious for the treatment of SLE and well tolerated among the South Korean subgroup of patients from the NEA study.
A large pulmonary nodule in a rheumatoid arthritis patient treated with tofacitinib
Authors: Her Minyoung , Park Jeongha , Lee Seung‐Geun
Published: December 2023

Pulmonary rheumatoid nodules are rare extra‐articular manifestations of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). They are usually asymptomatic but may form cavities and cause clinical symptoms. These nodules are difficult to differentiate clinically and radiologically from tuberculosis, fungal infection, or lung malignancies. Histopathological studies help in the differential diagnosis of pulmonary nodules in patients with RA; however, an effective treatment for rheumatoid lung nodules has not yet been established. This study reports a case of active RA with interstitial lung disease and a large inflammatory lung nodule that was improved with tofacitinib treatment.
How does climate risk affect corporate innovation? Evidence from China
Authors: Li Bin , Yao Yao , Usman Muhammad , Han Miaodi
Published: December 2023

This paper investigates the effects of climate risk on corporate innovation in China. Employing a city‐level climate risk indicator that we constructed and a sample of 21,430 firm‐year observations of Chinese‐listed companies, we find that climate risk is negatively associated with corporate innovation investment and outcome. These results are robust to alternative empirical designs and identifications. Our mechanism analyses reveal that climate risk impedes corporate innovation by motivating firms to increase cash holdings as financial reserves. Additional analyses suggest that the adverse impact of climate risk on corporate innovation is more pronounced for high‐tech firms, and less salient for firms with higher financial constraints and female Chairperson or CEO. Furthermore, the decrease in corporate innovation due to climate risk can lead to a reduction in firm value. These findings contribute to the existing literature on climate risk and corporate innovation and inform regulators and listed firms concerning climate risk.
High prevalence of depression in parents of children with Type 1 diabetes in a meta‐analysis of data from five continents
Authors: Ryan Hayley , Burgess Aaron , Jackson Clare , Hewson‐Ravenscroft Alyssa , Meiser‐Stedman Richard
Published: December 2023

Aim

This meta‐analysis identified the prevalence of depression in parents of children with Type 1 diabetes.

Methods

MEDLINE, PsycINFO and CINAHL databases were searched for papers published in English from 1980 to May 2022, yielding 18 studies (N = 2044 participants). The prevalence of parental depression was pooled across the studies.

Results

The prevalence of depression among parents of children with Type 1 diabetes was high. Random‐effects meta‐analyses estimated the prevalence of moderate depression and above in the total sample as 18.4% (95% CI 12.8–24.6; k = 17, N = 2044), with rates of 17.3% in mothers (95% CI 12.7–22.5; k = 12, N = 1106) and 9% in fathers (95% CI 4.3–15.1; k = 6, N = 199). The estimated prevalence of mild depression and above in the total sample was 32.7% (95% CI 20.3–46.6; k = 8, N = 797), with rates of 29.4% in mothers (95% CI 17.8–42.6; k = 4 N = 330) and 13.6% in fathers (95% CI 5.2–25.2; k = 2 N = 44). All results were characterised by high levels of heterogeneity. The risk of publication bias was low.

Conclusion

More than 1 in 6 parents of children with Type 1 diabetes had depression in the moderate plus category. The limitations and implications of these results are discussed.
Infliximab therapy decreases the expression of serum and faecal miR‐126 and miR‐20a in paediatric Crohn's disease: A pilot study
Authors: Casertano Marianna , Trotta Maria Consiglia , Cenni Sabrina , Creoli Mara , Miele Erasmo , Martinelli Massimo , Lepre Caterina Claudia , Russo Marina , Alfano Roberto , D'Amico Michele , Strisciuglio Caterina
Published: December 2023

Aim

We aimed to evaluate the serum and faecal expression of miR‐126 and miR‐20a in children with Crohn's disease (CD) during infliximab (IFX) therapy.

Methods

In this prospective observational study, serum and faeces from CD patients were collected before IFX therapy (T0), after induction (T1) and after 6 months from IFX (T2). IFX levels were determined by Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay at T1 and T2. miRNAs were profiled through Real‐Time RT‐PCR. The activity of disease was evaluated through the Paediatric Crohn's disease activity index (PCDAI), serum C‐reactive protein (CRP) and faecal calprotectin.

Results

Nine CD children were enrolled. Serum and faecal miR‐126 and miR‐20a levels were higher at T0 and showed a time‐dependent decrease, being significantly down‐regulated after IFX treatment at T2. Specifically, IFX levels recorded at T1 and T2 negatively correlated with the serum and faecal expression of miR‐126 and miR‐20a. Serum and faecal changes of miR‐126 and miR20‐a were positively associated with the decrease of the inflammatory marker CRP and PDCAI at all time points.

Conclusion

In children with CD, IFX therapy decreases the expression of serum and faecal miR‐126 and miR‐20a, suggesting an involvement of these two miRNAs in the action of the drug.
Carbon dioxide fluxes and soil carbon storage in relation to long‐term grazing and no grazing in Icelandic semi‐natural grasslands
Authors: Thorhallsdottir Anna Gudrun , Gudmundsson Jon
Published: December 2023

Question

What is the effect of long‐term grazing and no grazing (NG) on carbon dioxide flux and soil carbon storage in Icelandic semi‐natural grasslands.

Location

Three farms, with known history of land use, in W Iceland.

Methods

On each farm, we located an intensively and an extensively grazed site, which both had been constantly grazed for centuries, and a parallel site with no grazing for over 50 years. We measured net ecosystem exchange (NEE), ecosystem respiration and normalized difference vegetation index on a regular basis over the growing season. Samples were taken from 60 cm deep soil profiles for analysis of soil organic carbon (SOC).

Results

The grazed sites showed significantly more negative NEE than the NG sites, indicating more carbon dioxide uptake on the grazed sites compared to the NG sites. The normalized difference vegetation index was also significantly higher on the grazed sites. On all farms, the total SOC content was higher in the grazed sites than in the parallel NG sites.

Conclusions

The study indicates that cessation of grazing decreases productivity and carbon dioxide uptake in a semi‐natural grassland in Iceland, as well as SOC content in the soil. Historically, all the NG sites in the study had the same grazing history as the continuously grazed sites until grazing exclusion. The measured lower SOC on the NG sites seems to indicate that, without grazing, SOC is lost with time and/or grazing is needed to maintain SOC in these grasslands.
Going green? On the drivers of individuals' green bank adoption
Authors: Merli Maxime , Pallud Jessie , Pulikova Mariya
Published: December 2023

In a context where individuals are increasingly more sensitive to corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices and where mobilization of savings for the energy transition is essential, our article is the first to study the drivers of online green bank adoption. By analyzing 1075 questionnaires from a panel of French individuals in charge of financial decisions in their households, we show that altruism and green consumption values are significant drivers of individuals' green banking adoption and reveal that willingness to adopt a green bank is mediated by the preference for green savings. These results extend the nascent literature dealing with the link between responsible consumption and saving behaviors. Briefly speaking, green banks (and associated savings products) have the potential to enable households to express their consumption values through their investments. That said, our results suggest that households' financial well‐being and financial literacy can be barriers to the mobilization of green savings. Our results also demonstrate the significant influence of information system variables, such as personal innovativeness and trust, on willingness to adopt green banking. By shedding light on the drivers of individuals' green bank adoption, our results provide valuable insights for the banking industry.
Identifying and shifting educators' failure pedagogical mindsets through reflective practices
Authors: Simpson Amber , Anderson Alice , Goeke Megan , Caruana Dara , Maltese Adam V.
Published: December 2023

Background

In this paper, we add to the scant literature base on learning from failures with a particular focus on understanding educators' shifting mindset in making‐centred learning environments.

Aims

The aim of Study 1 was to explore educators' beliefs about failure for learning and instructional practices within their local making‐centred learning environments. The aim of Study 2 was to examine how participation in a video‐based professional development cycle regarding failure moments in making‐centred learning environments might have shifted museum educators' failure pedagogical mindsets.

Sample

In Study 1, the sample included 15 educators at either a middle school or museum. In Study 2, the sample included 39 educators across six museums.

Methods

In Study 1, educators engaged in a semi‐structured interview that lasted between 45 and 75 min. In Study 2, the six museums video recorded professional development sessions.

Results

Results from Study 1 highlighted educators' failure pedagogical mindsets as either underdeveloped or rigid and absent of relational thinking between self‐ and youth‐failures. One key result from Study 2 was a shift from an abstract sense of failure as youth‐focused to a practical sense of failure as educator‐focused and/or relational (i.e., youth educator‐focused failure moments).

Conclusions

Based on the results from Study 1 and Study 2, our research suggests that exploring an educator's relationship with failure is important and witnessing and reflecting upon their own failure pedagogical mindset in action may facilitate a shift towards a more complex and interconnected space for growth and development of both educators and youth.
Malignant glomus tumor arising in association with a fumarate hydratase‐deficient leiomyoma: An unusual collision tumor
Authors: Short Emma L. , Logan Suzanna J. , Thangaiah Judith Jebastin , Folpe Andrew L.
Published: December 2023

Collision tumors, defined as “two independent neoplasms that occur in close proximity to one another but maintain distinct boundaries,” are quite rare. We report an exceptional collision tumor composed of a genetically confirmed malignant glomus tumor and a fumarate hydratase (FH)‐deficient leiomyoma, presenting as a subcutaneous thigh mass in a 38‐year‐old male who was known to have hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell carcinoma syndrome. Microscopic examination identified a biphasic subcutaneous mass comprising sheets and nodules of glomus cells, with nuclear atypia and mitotic activity, and fascicles of mitotically inactive smooth muscle with variably pleomorphic nuclei and intracytoplasmic eosinophilic inclusions, features of FH‐deficient leiomyoma. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated loss of FH and robust 2‐succinocysteine expression in the smooth muscle, with a normal (FH‐retained) expression pattern in the glomus tumor. Next‐generation sequencing, performed on the glomus tumor component, identified CARMN::NOTCH2 fusion, characteristic of malignant glomus tumors. Awareness of the distinctive morphologic, immunohistochemical, and molecular genetic features of glomus tumors and FH‐deficient leiomyomas is important for correct clinical management of patients with exceptional collision tumors of this type.
Environment‐based approaches to improve participation of young people with physical disabilities during COVID‐19
Authors: Anaby Dana R. , Avery Lisa , Palisano Robert J. , Levin Mindy F. , Khayargoli Pranamika , Hsieh Yu‐Hsin , Gorter Jan Willem , Teplicky Rachel ,   BEYOND Consultant Team
Published: December 2023

Aim

To examine the effects of the Pathways and Resources for Engagement and Participation (PREP) intervention during the COVID‐19 pandemic on (1) activity performance and satisfaction, and (2) motor, cognitive, and affective body functions.

Method

An interrupted time‐series design with multiple baselines across 21 young people (13 females, eight males) aged 16 to 25 years (median = 21 years 5 months) with physical disabilities was employed. The young people engaged in an 8‐week self‐chosen leisure activity (e.g. football, piano, photography) at their home or community. The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) assessed activity performance and satisfaction weekly. Mental health problems, including affective and cognitive outcomes, were assessed weekly using the Behavior Assessment System for Children, Third Edition. Motor functions (e.g. trunk control, reaching, strength) were assessed biweekly. Linear mixed‐effects models were used.

Results

The intervention had large effects on activity performance (0.78) and satisfaction (0.88) with clinically significant change in COPM scores (2.6 [95% confidence interval {CI}: 2.0–3.2] and 3.2 points [95% CI: 2.4–3.9] respectively). Young people without mental health problems at baseline benefited more from the intervention (p = 0.028). Improvements in at least one domain of body function occurred in 10 young people especially for motor outcomes.

Interpretation

Results demonstrate the effectiveness of PREP during adverse times and suggest benefits going beyond participation, involving outcomes at the body‐function level.

What this paper adds

Environmental‐based interventions can improve participation even during adverse times such as the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Significant improvement with large effect sizes occurred in both activity performance and satisfaction.

Intervention was effective for all; those without mental health problems benefited more.

Improvements in body‐function outcomes were partially observed, especially in motor‐related outcomes.

Body functions may improve through participation even if not targeted by the intervention.