bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A longitudinal examination of anti-corruption disclosure in the banking sector of a least-developed economy: does board composition make a difference?
Authors: Mazumder Mohammed Mehadi Masud
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study focuses on anti-corruption disclosure (ACD) as a critical indicator of a bank’s commitment to combat corruption. It seeks to measure the level of ACD in banking companies. Emphasizing the pivotal role of board directors in ensuring corporate accountability and transparency, the study further explores the connection between board composition and ACD.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts automated content analysis (using keyword search) to measure the level of ACD in the annual reports of listed banks in Bangladesh. Drawing upon agency theory and resource-dependence theory, the study proposes that the collective monitoring and resources facilitated by a well-structured board (size, gender diversity and independence) significantly influence a bank’s commitment to combat corruption. The paper employs linear regression to examine the hypotheses. The reliability of the findings is further validated through the application of the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) and Quantile Regression.

Findings

The results indicate a steady rise in ACD over the sample period (2014–2022). The analysis establishes that larger board sizes and a greater presence of female directors are positively associated with ACD. Notably, the study identifies a critical mass of at least three female directors for a significant positive relationship between gender diversity on the board and ACD. However, no significant relationship is observed between board independence and ACD.

Practical implications

The study sheds light on the current state of ACD within the banking companies of a least-developed country. The findings carry significant implications for regulators to gauge banks' dedication to anti-corruption efforts and make informed decisions on issuing guidance for enhanced ACD. These findings can also assist regulators in assessing the implications of board composition and formulating guidelines within the corporate governance code.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature on ACD in the context of a least-developed economy. Notably, the study fills a research gap by exploring ACD in the banking industry. A key aspect of this study is its exploration of the determinants of ACD, explicitly emphasizing how board composition is likely to influence ACD.
Going resilient with digital transformation, human capabilities and innovation readiness: empirical evidence from the energy sector
Authors: Bahyan Haya , Ajmal Mian M. , Saber Hussein
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The present study investigated organizational resilience (OR) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE’s) energy sector to identify impactful technological and human variables and assess the hermeneutic effect of digital transformation on value co-creation and OR. The study also investigates the mediating role of value co-creation on a few covariates of OR.

Design/methodology/approach

The questionnaire was sent out to 311 professionals in the energy sector, all affiliated with governmental organizations, using quota sampling. A total of 206 collated responses corresponding to the tested variables regarding the influences of digital transformation, employee resilience, innovation readiness, cyber resilience and value co-creation on OR were analyzed using structural equation modeling. Accordingly, a model of eight constructs and their 27 indicators was tested.

Findings

Instituting flexibility and adaptability to technological advancements, as well as cyber resilience, was found to enhance digital transformation. The sense of self-efficacy of the professionals who participated in the study led them to develop innovation readiness and thus embrace creativity and encourage co-creation while maintaining collaborative efforts with customers and stakeholders. This mediated several technological and human variables, such as the importance of managers' understanding of customer needs, preferences and pain points, which involves actively seeking and valuing customer feedback to inform decision-making.

Practical implications

When iterative prototyping, continuous learning, and OR are integrated into an organization’s culture, they create a robust foundation for a customer-centric mindset. This mindset becomes ingrained in how employees approach their work and make purposeful decisions.

Originality/value

The present study drew empirical insights into OR in the UAE’s energy sector from a resource-based theory perspective. By identifying potential vulnerabilities and implementing appropriate mitigation measures, organizations can reduce the likelihood and impact of disruptions, which can ultimately help them maintain customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Effects of female CEO and female CFO on internationalization and firm performance
Authors: Amin Ali , Ali Rizwan , Ur Rehman Ramiz
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The study aims to examine the influence of female chief executive officer (CEO) and female chief financial officer (CFO) on the linkage between internationalization and firm performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used 2926 firm-year observations of nonfinancial firms listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange over the period 2012–2021. This study used ordinary least squares regression method to test the hypotheses, and additionally, generalized method of moments estimation and fixed effect analysis were used to check for the robustness of the results.

Findings

Using the framework of upper echelons theory and resource dependence theory, this study reports that internationalization has a positive impact on firm performance. Moreover, the results show that the presence of female CEO and female CFO strengthens the positive relationship between internationalization and firm performance. The results add to the gender diversity literature by highlighting the positive role of female CEOs and female CFOs on the internationalization and performance of firms in a male-dominated society.

Originality/value

This study adds to the limited literature on the internationalization of businesses in an emerging market and provides empirical support to upper echelons theory and resource dependence theory by highlighting the benefits brought to the firm through female CEOs and female CFOs.
Take the bull by the horns! The role of spiritual leadership and dark triad toward workplace incivility
Authors: Malik Maria , Islam Talat , Ashraf Yasir
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Workplace incivility has become a global issue; therefore, this study aims to investigate how spiritual leadership can help employees to overcome uncivil behaviors in the workplace. Specifically, the authors explored the mediating mechanism between spiritual leadership and workplace incivility through workplace spirituality. The authors further examined how negative personalities (i.e. Machiavellianism, psychopathy and narcissism) moderate workplace spirituality and workplace incivility.

Design/methodology/approach

This study collected data from 369 employees working in the banking sector on a convenience basis. The authors applied structural equation modeling for hypotheses testing.

Findings

The authors noted that spiritual leaders help employees to reduce uncivil workplace behaviors and employees’ perception of workplace spirituality intervenes the same. The authors further identified that the negative association between workplace spirituality and workplace incivility is moderated by the dark triad (Machiavellianism, psychopathy and narcissism) such that individuals high in Machiavellianism, psychopathy and narcissism weaken this negative association.

Research limitations/implications

The cross-sectional design may restrict causality. However, our findings not only contribute to social cognitive theory but also suggest management includes civility intervention as an essential part of organizations’ training and development.

Originality/value

This study not only highlighted the role of spiritual leadership and workplace spirituality toward workplace incivility but also shed light on how negative personalities can ignore workplace spirituality to exhibit uncivil behavior.
The role of digital literacy, epistemological belief and reading motivation and engagement in teaching 21st century skills
Authors: Ata Rıdvan , Alpaslan Muhammet Mustafa
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to shed some light on the extent to which digital literacy, epistemological belief and reading motivation and engagement predict pre-service teachers’ capabilities in teaching 21st century skills.

Design/methodology/approach

21st Century Skills Teaching Scale, Internet based Epistemological Beliefs Scale, Internet based Reading Motivation and Engagement Scale as well as Digital Literacy Scale were used to collect the data. A total of 512 pre-service teachers from four universities in Türkiye participated in the study. Descriptive statistics, correlation and structural equation model fitness tests were performed by using SPSS 24.0 and AMOS 22.0.

Findings

First, the results of the correlations analysis indicated that there were statistically significant positive correlations among measured variables. Second, the results of the path and SEM model fit tests demonstrated that all the model fit indices of X2/df, TLI, CFI, RMSEA met the acceptable criteria and were shown to be an adequate model structure. Finally, the results demonstrated strong evidence for predicting effects of digital literacy, epistemological belief as well as reading motivation and engagement on teaching 21st century skills.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited by the fact that the evidence relies solely on pre-service teachers' self-reporting. Secondly, although the hypothesised model explained 45.2% variance of pre-service teachers’ competence in the 21st century skills, 54.8% of it remains unexplained.

Originality/value

The results of this study suggest important implications for teaching programs as they underscore the importance of digital literacy on epistemological beliefs, reading motivation and competence in teaching 21st century skills.
Industry-specific stock valuation methods – a literature review
Authors: Olbert Lars
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Surprisingly little is known of the various methods of security analysis used by financial analysts with industry-specific knowledge. Financial analysts’ industry knowledge is a favored and appreciated attribute by fund managers and institutional investors. Understanding analysts’ use of industry-specific valuation models, which are the main value drivers within different industries, will enhance our understanding of important aspects of value creation in these industries. This paper contributes to the broader understanding of how financial analysts in various industries approach valuation, offering insights that can be beneficial to a wide range of stakeholders in the financial market.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper systematically reviews existing research to consolidate the current understanding of analysts’ use of valuation models and factors. It aims to demystify what can often be seen as a “black box”, shedding light on the valuation tools employed by financial analysts across diverse industries.

Findings

The use of industry-specific valuation models and factors by analysts is a subject of considerable interest to both academics and investors. The predominant model in several industries is P/E, with some exceptions. Notably, EV/EBITDA is favored in the telecom, energy and materials sectors, while the capital goods industry primarily relies on P/CF. In the REITs sector, P/AFFO is the most commonly employed model. In specific sectors like pharmaceuticals, energy and telecom, DCF is utilized. However, theoretical models like RIM and AEG find limited use among analysts.

Originality/value

This is the first paper systematically reviewing the research on analyst’s use of industry-specific stock valuation methods. It serves as a foundation for future research in this field and is likely to be of interest to academics, analysts, fund managers and investors.
Can toll prices changes affect the housing market? The case of the Severn crossing toll removal
Authors: Protopsalti Danai , Skouralis Alexandros
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Since 1966, the Severn crossing has been connecting England and Wales. In January 2018, its ownership returned to the UK Government, and this marked the start of a toll-free journey across the two countries and made commuting between the regions more affordable. In this paper, we examine the impact of the toll removal on the property market.

Design/methodology/approach

We employ property-level data from the Land Registry and a difference-in-differences (DiD) empirical model for the periods 2016–2018 and 2019–2021 to capture the pre- and post-toll removal dynamics. The DiD estimation allows us to examine the causal relationship between policy changes and property prices.

Findings

Our findings suggest that property prices in Newport and Monmouthshire (South East Wales) are positively affected by the policy, which results in a statistically significant increase of 5.8% more than those located in the South West England (Bristol and South Gloucestershire) region in the period 2019–2021. The impact can reach up to 13.1% for properties located in a 10 km radius of the bridge. The results indicate that the toll removal enables the ripple effect across the two markets by reducing commuting costs.

Originality/value

This is the first paper that examines the Severn Crossing case study. Its contribution is significant since we provide empirical evidence on how reduced transportation costs increase property prices in the lowest income region and have the opposite effect on the area with higher incomes and economic activity levels.
War! Good news for defense firms? Analysis of the impact of Russia–Ukraine conflict
Authors: Martins António Miguel , Correia Pedro , Gouveia Ricardo
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This paper examines the short-term market impact of the beginning of the military conflict between Russia and Ukraine (February 24, 2022) on the world’s largest defense firms.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors examine the world’s 100 largest listed defense firms at and around the beginning of the military conflict between Russia and Ukraine using an event-study methodology.

Findings

We observe a positive and statistically significant stock price reaction at and around the beginning of the military conflict. These results are consistent with the asset-pricing perspective/expected cash flow hypothesis. Consistent with the captured regulator theory, we find superior market returns for the two portfolios with a greater weight of defense sales. Superior market returns are also found for defense firms with higher R&D and capital expenditure intensity. Finally, these reactions are reinforced or mitigated by other firm-specific characteristics such as size, profitability and institutional ownership.

Originality/value

The effect of the war on stock markets has been relatively little examined in the financial theory. This study intends to fill this gap in the literature.
The effect of off-balance sheet activities on credit risk of African banks
Authors: Keffala Mohamed Rochdi
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to analyze the effect of off-balance sheet activities on the credit risk of African banks.

Design/methodology/approach

The theory about the relationship between off-balance sheet activities and bank risk was used to construct a conceptual model of the effect of off-balance sheet on credit risk in an African context. The accounting approach is chosen by collecting accounting data extracted from the annual reports of 24 private and conventional African banks during the period 2010–2019. Both statistical and empirical studies are conducted. The statistical study aims to give a description of sample banks in terms of off-balance sheet activities and key financial indicators. The empirical study has the goal of exploring the correlations between, on the one hand, credit risk and, on the other hand, off-balance sheet ratio and control variables (bank- and country-specific variables). This study is based on dynamic panels using the two-step generalized method of moments technique to estimate regressions between credit risk and the explanatory variables.

Findings

The statistical study reveals that sample banks use moderately off-balance sheet activities; most of them use essentially guarantees and letters of credit, have satisfactory financial indicators and are slightly exposed to credit risk. The empirical results from the two-step generalized method of moments technique disclose that off-balance sheet activities have an intensifying effect on the credit risk of African banks. However, the increasing effect can be minimized when African banks use moderately off-balance sheet activities.

Practical implications

Using judiciously off-balance sheet activities does not exacerbate the exposure of African banks to credit risk. Therefore, managers of African banks are recommended to maintain a moderate level of off-balance sheet activities, especially guarantees and letters of credit.

Originality/value

The findings of this study eliminate the opacity about the effect of off-balance sheet activities on credit risk. Moreover, this study fulfills the huge gap in the related literature by completing the scarcity of recent studies, considering all items of the off-balance sheet, focusing on the African context, describing off-balance sheet activities and financial indicators of sample banks due to a statistical study and estimating regressions of dynamic panels between credit risk and both bank-specific and country-specific variables due to a two-step generalized method of moments technique.
Mapping research on knowledge management in family firms: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Capolupo Paolo
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Given the growing interest in the topic of knowledge management (KM) in family firms (FFs) and the subsequent increasing number of papers published, this study aims to review the field to identify and analyze the main themes and trends.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applies bibliometric techniques to a sample of 146 papers published from 2007 to 2023 and their 8,126 unique cited references. Bibliometric coupling is performed on the sample papers to explore the current intellectual structure of the field of KM in FFs, whereas cocitations analysis is performed to investigate the different literature streams that served as roots for the development of such a field.

Findings

Bibliographic coupling reveals that sample papers can be grouped into four clusters, and, through papers content analysis, the author identifies their core themes as knowledge sharing, innovation, knowledge-based dynamic capabilities and intellectual capital. Cocitation analysis of the cited references revealed four main clusters that can be considered the literature streams that served as roots for the development of the field, i.e. knowledge-based view, socioemotional wealth, strategic management and social capital (as a theory and as a resource).

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature on KM in FFs by extending prior systematic review efforts with bibliometric analyses and combining these results to highlight connections between the main research themes around which scholars have debated (i.e. the clusters identified through bibliometric coupling) and their theoretical foundations (i.e. the clusters identified through cocitation analysis). This study also has practical implications by synthesizing and informing managers about FFs’ advantages and weaknesses in the KM process.
Curating future leaders: a literature review on managerial curriculum in learning organizations
Authors: Asfahani Ahmed
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to analyze the evolution and current state of talent management in learning organizations and the design of managerial curricula, highlighting the challenges and opportunities in the context of a rapidly changing global business environment.

Design/methodology/approach

A narrative literature review was conducted, tracing the conceptual evolution of learning organizations. Seminal works emphasizing continuous learning and transformation were highlighted, and the progression of managerial education was analyzed, from its early focus on ethics and soft skills to its current emphasis on sustainability, digital literacy and experiential learning.

Findings

The research reveals challenges in balancing foundational knowledge with emerging competencies in curriculum design. Tensions are evident in maintaining relevance in rapidly changing, globally interconnected environments. Notable limitations include the trade-offs in innovation and the need to cater to diverse student demographics.

Originality/value

This review uniquely synthesizes developments at the intersection of curriculum innovation, organizational learning and curriculum design, offering valuable insights for institutions aiming to nurture talent for modern learning organizations.
Comprehensive strategies for controlling Listeria monocytogenes biofilms on food‐contact surfaces
Authors: Hua Zi , Zhu Mei‐Jun
Published: May 2024

Listeria monocytogenes biofilms formed on food‐contact surfaces within food‐processing facilities pose a significant challenge, serving as persistent sources of cross‐contamination. In this review, we examined documented cases of foodborne outbreaks and recalls linked to L. monocytogenes contamination on equipment surfaces and in the food production environment, provided an overview of the prevalence and persistence of L. monocytogenes in different food‐processing facilities, and discussed environmental factors influencing its biofilm formation. We further delved into antimicrobial interventions, such as chemical sanitizers, thermal treatments, biological control, physical treatment, and other approaches for controlling L. monocytogenes biofilms on food‐contact surfaces. This review provides valuable insights into the persistent challenge of L. monocytogenes biofilms in food processing, offering a foundation for future research and practical strategies to enhance food safety.
Valorization applications of pineapple and papaya byproducts in food industry
Authors: Oliver‐Simancas Rodrigo , Labrador‐Fernández Lara , Abellán‐Diéguez Carlos , García‐Villegas Abigail , Del Caro Alessandra , Leyva‐Jimenez Francisco Javier , Alañón M. Elena
Published: May 2024

The recent increase in the harvesting and industrial processing of tropical fruits such as pineapple and papaya is leading to unavoidable amounts of byproducts rich in valuable compounds. Given the significance of the chemical composition of these byproducts, new research avenues are opening up to exploit them in the food industry. In this sense, the revalorization of pineapple and papaya byproducts is an emerging trend that is encouraging the full harnessing of these tropical fruits, offering the opportunity for developing innovative value‐added products. Therefore, the main aim of this review is to provide an overview of the state of the art of the current valorization applications of pineapple and papaya byproducts in the field of food industry. For that proposal, comprehensive research of valorization applications developed in the last years has been conducted using scientific databases, databases, digital libraries, and scientific search engines. The latest valorization applications of pineapple and papaya byproducts in the food industry have been systematically revised and gathered with the objective of synthesizing and critically analyzing existing scientific literature in order to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field of tropical byproduct revalorization providing a solid foundation for further research and highlighting scientific gaps and new challenges that should be addressed in the future.
A review on fermented vegetables: Microbial community and potential upgrading strategy via inoculated fermentation
Authors: Xu Jinge , Peng Sijia , Xiong Yandi , Zheng Zhuoqi , Liu Meng , Xu Jiayue , Chen Wei , Liu Mengsong , Kong Jiaqi , Wang Chenyu , Wang Yongtao , Rao Lei , Zhao Liang , Liao Xiaojun
Published: May 2024

Fermentation is a traditional method utilized for vegetable preservation, with microorganisms playing a crucial role in the process. Nowadays, traditional spontaneous fermentation methods are widely employed, which excessively depend on the microorganisms attached to the surface of raw materials, resulting in great difficulties in ideal control over the fermentation process. To achieve standardized production and improve product quality, it is essential to promote inoculated fermentation. In this way, starter cultures can dominate the fermentation processes successfully. Unfortunately, inoculated fermentation has not been thoroughly studied and applied. Therefore, this paper provides a systematic review of the potential upgrading strategy of vegetable fermentation technology. First, we disclose the microbial community structures and succession rules in some typical spontaneously fermented vegetables to comprehend the microbial fermentation processes well. Then, internal and external factors affecting microorganisms are explored to provide references for the selection of fermented materials and conditions. Besides, we widely summarize the potential starter candidates with various characteristics isolated from spontaneously fermented products. Subsequently, we exhibited the inoculated fermentation strategies with those isolations. To optimize the product quality, not only lactic acid bacteria that lead the fermentation, but also yeasts that contribute to aroma formation should be combined for inoculation. The inoculation order of the starter cultures also affects the microbial fermentation. It is equally important to choose a proper processing method to guarantee the activity and convenience of starter cultures. Only in this way can we achieve the transition from traditional spontaneous fermentation to modern inoculated fermentation.
Mycotoxin contamination in organic and conventional cereal grain and products: A systematic literature review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Juan , Sufar Enas Khalid , Bernhoft Aksel , Seal Chris , Rempelos Leonidas , Hasanaliyeva Gultekin , Zhao Bingqiang , Iversen Per Ole , Baranski Marcin , Volakakis Nikolaos , Leifert Carlo
Published: May 2024

There is still considerable controversy about the relative risk of mycotoxin exposure associated with the consumption of organic and conventional cereals. Using validated protocols, we carried out a systematic literature review and meta‐analyses of data on the incidence and concentrations of mycotoxins produced by Fusarium, Claviceps, Penicillium, and Aspergillus species in organic and conventional cereal grains/products. The standard weighted meta‐analysis of concentration data detected a significant effect of production system (organic vs. conventional) only for the Fusarium mycotoxins deoxynivalenol, with concentrations ∼50% higher in conventional than organic cereal grains/products (p < 0.0001). Weighted meta‐analyses of incidence data and unweighted meta‐analyses of concentration data also detected small, but significant effects of production system on the incidence and/or concentrations of T‐2/HT‐2 toxins, zearalenone, enniatin, beauvericin, ochratoxin A (OTA), and aflatoxins. Multilevel meta‐analyses identified climatic conditions, cereal species, study type, and analytical methods used as important confounding factors for the effects of production system. Overall, results from this study suggest that (i) Fusarium mycotoxin contamination decreased between the 1990s and 2020, (ii) contamination levels are similar in organic and conventional cereals used for human consumption, and (iii) maintaining OTA concentrations below the maximum contamination levels (3.0 μg/kg) set by the EU remains a major challenge.
Improving the microbiological safety and quality of aquatic products using nonthermal processing
Authors: Xie Yuan , Zhang Jie , Zhang Pingping , Regenstein Joe M. , Liu Dasong , Zhou Peng
Published: May 2024

Spoilage and deterioration of aquatic products during storage are inevitable, posing significant challenges to their suitability for consumption and the sustainability of the aquatic products supply chain. Research on the nonthermal processing of fruit juices, probiotics, dairy products, and meat has demonstrated positive outcomes in preserving quality. This review examines specific spoilage bacteria species and mechanisms for various aquatic products and discusses the principles, characteristics, and applications of six nonthermal processing methods for bacterial inhibition to maintain microbiological safety and physicochemical quality. The primary spoilage bacteria groups differ among fish, crustaceans, and shellfish based on storage conditions and durations. Four metabolic pathways utilized by spoilage microorganisms—peptides and amino acids, nitrogen compounds, nucleotides, and carbohydrates—are crucial in explaining spoilage. Nonthermal processing techniques, such as ultrahigh pressure, irradiation, magnetic/electric fields, plasma, and ultrasound, can inactivate microorganisms, thereby enhancing microbiological safety, physicochemical quality, and shelf life. Future research may integrate nonthermal processing with other technologies (e.g., modified atmosphere packaging and omics) to elucidate mechanisms of spoilage and improve the storage quality of aquatic products.
The association between multiple trajectories of macronutrient intake and the risk of new‐onset diabetes in Chinese adults
Authors: Wang Sizhe , Ruirui Guo , Li Xiaotong , Wang Fengdan , Wu Zibo , Liu Yan , Dong Yibo , Li Bo
Published: May 2024

Background

The association between macronutrient intake and diabetes is unclear. We used data from the China Health and Nutrition Survey to explore the association between macronutrient intake trajectories and diabetes risk in this study.

Methods

We included 6755 participants who did not have diabetes at baseline and participated in at least three surveys. The energy supply ratio of carbohydrate, protein, and fat was further calculated from dietary data; different macronutrient trajectories were determined using multitrajectory models; and multiple Cox regression models were used to evaluate the association between these trajectories and diabetes.

Results

We found three multitrajectories: decreased low carbohydrate‐increased moderate protein‐increased high fat (DLC‐IMP‐IHF), decreased high carbohydrate‐moderate protein‐increased low fat (DHC‐MP‐ILF), and balanced‐macronutrients (BM). Compared to the BM trajectory, DHC‐MP‐ILF trajectories were significantly associated with increased risk of diabetes (hazard ratio [HR]: 3.228, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.571–6.632), whereas no association between DLC‐IMP‐IHF trajectories and diabetes was found in our study (HR: 0.699, 95% CI: 0.351–1.392).

Conclusions

The downward trend of high carbohydrate and the increasing trend of low fat increased the risk of diabetes in Chinese adults.

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Association between colchicine use and the risk of dementia among patients with gout: A nationwide retrospective cohort study
Authors: Chen Pei‐Yun , Tseng Chu‐Chiao , Lee Yi‐Ting , Yip Hei‐Tung , Chang Renin , Wei James Cheng‐Chung
Published: May 2024

Background

Recent findings suggest a link between gout and the development of dementia. Early treatment with colchicine is recommended as a first‐line therapy for gout flares. Animal studies demonstrate that colchicine could induce cognitive impairment. This cohort study aimed to investigate the association between colchicine use and the risk of developing dementia.

Methods

In this nationwide cohort study, we performed comparative analysis on 6147 patients ≥40 years, with gout and colchicine new users against 6147 controls to assess subsequent dementia risk. The colchicine group and the control group (urate lowering therapy group) were matched on the bases of age, sex, index year, and comorbidities. All participants were followed for up to 14 years for a diagnosis of dementia considering medical records were retrospectively checked over this period. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Sensitivity analyses were performed to validate our findings.

Results

The adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) of dementia for colchicine users was 1.45 (95% CI = 1.05, 1.99) relative to comparison group after adjusting for sex, age, and comorbidities. Sensitivity analysis aiming to minimize underdiagnosed occult dementia at the time of index year yielded consistent positive association. In higher accumulative dose colchicine group (cumulative defined daily dose [cDDD] >30), the aHR of dementia risk for colchicine users was 1.42 (95% CI = 1.03, 1.97) compared with nonusers. For those duration of colchicine use >30 days, the aHR was 1.53 (95% CI = 1.01–2.32) compared to the nonuser group.

Conclusions

A significant risk of dementia was observed in this study in patients with gout using colchicine at higher cDDD and for a longer period. Further research is needed to elucidate the relationship between colchicine, gout, and dementia.
Communityself‐protection, public authority and the safety of strangers in Bor and Ler, South Sudan
Authors: Kirk Tom , Pendle Naomi , Akoi Abraham Diing
Published: May 2024

Protection is not simply something done or delivered to people by states, humanitarian organisations and armed peacekeepers. Instead, a growing literature has begun to examine the self‐protection strategies of people and communities in protracted violent crises. Its authors suggest that nuanced understandings of how people retain a measure of agency in the face of violence is an important first step for those seeking to reduce their levels of threat and vulnerability. We use interview data from communities in Bor and Ler, South Sudan, long affected by conflict, to show how attention to the relationship between public authority and the safety of strangers can reveal the skills, resources and conditions under which protection is successfully provided. This also helps to re‐root ‘protection’ in local vernaculars that more closely resemble its everyday use among South Sudanese and offers entry points for humanitarian interventions with more realistic prospects of positive outcomes for communities sceptical of humanitarians' broken promises to protect.
Complete blood count, coagulation biomarkers, and lung function 6 months after critical COVID‐19
Authors: Kattainen Salla , Pitkänen Hanna , Reijula Jere , Hästbacka Johanna
Published: May 2024

Background

Understanding the recovery of post‐COVID‐19 organ dysfunction is essential.

We evaluated coagulation 6 months post‐COVID‐19, examining its recovery and association with lung function.

Methods

Patients treated for COVID‐19 at intensive care units between 3/2020 and 1/2021 were analyzed for complete blood count (CBC) and coagulation biomarkers (prothrombin time activity (%) (PT%), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), fibrinogen, coagulation factor VIII (FVIII), antithrombin (AT), and D‐dimer) during the 6 months post‐hospitalization. Results were compared with acute phase values and correlated with pulmonary function tests (PFT), including forced vital capacity (FVC) and hemoglobin‐corrected diffusing capacity percentage of predicted (DLCOc%), recorded 6 months post‐hospitalization. We examined the association between coagulation biomarkers and DLCOc% using linear regression with age, sex, and invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) duration, and FVIII (correlated with DLCOc%) as covariates.

Results

Most CBCs and coagulation biomarkers had median values within the normal range. However, only 21% (15/70) of patients achieved full normalization of all biomarkers. Compared to acute COVID‐19, hemoglobin, PT%, and AT increased, while leukocytes, fibrinogen, FVIII, and D‐dimer decreased. Despite decreased levels, FVIII remained elevated in 46% (31/68), leukocytes in 26% (18/70), and D‐dimer in 27% (18/67) at 6 months. A weak negative correlation (r = −0.37, p = .036) was found between DLCOc% and FVIII. Multivariable analysis revealed a weak, independent association between DLCOc% and FVIII. Excluding patients with anticoagulation therapy, FVIII no longer correlated with DLCOc%, while AT showed a moderate correlation with DLCOc%.

Conclusion

Only a few patients had normal CBC and coagulation biomarker values 6 months after critical COVID‐19. A weak negative correlation between DLCOc% and FVIII suggests that deranged coagulation activity may be associated with reduced diffusing capacity.
Selective sweep analysis of the adaptability of the Yarkand hare (Lepus yarkandensis) to hot arid environments using SLAF‐seq
Authors: Li Zurui , Fang Bingwa , Dong Pengcheng , Shan Wenjuan
Published: May 2024

The Yarkand hare (Lepus yarkandensis) inhabits arid desert areas and is endemic to China. It has evolved various adaptations to survive in hot arid environments, including stress responses, the ability to maintain water homeostasis and heat tolerance. Here, we performed a selective sweep analysis to identify the candidate genes for adaptation to hot arid environments in the Yarkand hare. A total of 397 237 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms were obtained from 80 Yarkand hares, which inhabit hot arid environments, and 36 Tolai hares (Lepus tolai), which inhabit environments with a mild climate, via specific‐locus amplified fragment sequencing. We identified several candidate genes that were associated with the heat stress response (HSPE1), oxidative stress response (SLC23A and GLRX2), immune response (IL1R1 and IRG1), central nervous system development (FGF13, THOC2, FMR1 and MECP2) and regulation of water homeostasis (CDK1) according to fixation index values and θπ ratios in the selective sweep analysis, and six of these genes (GLRX2, IRG1, FGF13, FMR1, MECP2 and CDK1) are newly discovered genes. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to identify candidate genes for adaptation to hot arid environments in the Yarkand hare. The results of this study enhance our understanding of the adaptation of the Yarkand hare to hot arid environments and will aid future studies aiming to functionally verify these candidate genes.
Beta‐lactam allergy risk stratification in a maternity population in Australia: Scope for allergy de‐labelling
Authors: Jeong Wirawan , Saleh Shahad , Heap Sharon , Pham Vi , Leung Laura , Krishnaswamy Sushena
Published: May 2024

Background

Unconfirmed beta‐lactam allergy in pregnant people has been associated with higher morbidity, unnecessary exposure to broad‐spectrum antibiotics and prolonged hospitalisation. There are no published data on beta‐lactam allergies in pregnant people in Australia.

Aims

The aim was to describe patient‐reported beta‐lactam allergies and appropriateness for antibiotic allergy de‐labelling in a maternity cohort in Australia.

Methods

Maternity patients aged ≥18 years admitted to our institution between March 2021 and June 2021 with a beta‐lactam allergy documented in their electronic medical record were interviewed for details of their allergy. The documented allergies were compared to the allergy history obtained from the interview. Severity of the allergy was rated, and appropriateness for allergy de‐labelling was assessed using the Victorian Therapeutics Advisory Group beta‐lactam antibiotic allergy assessment tool.

Results

One hundred and fifty‐three beta‐lactam allergies (182 reactions) were reported by 145 patients. Penicillin class antibiotics were the most frequently implicated, including unspecified penicillins (95/153, 62%), amoxicillin (19/153, 13%) and amoxicillin‐clavulanate (8/153, 5%). Allergy documentation required amending in 52 of 145 patients (36%); 85 of 153 (56%) of the beta‐lactam allergies were considered low risk and potentially appropriate for direct oral re‐challenge.

Conclusion

Beta‐lactam allergies were inaccurately documented in more than one third of the maternity patients included in our study. As such, education of maternity care providers about the importance of accurate allergy history taking remains an urgent unmet need. Furthermore, allergy assessment and de‐labelling during pregnancy should be considered in maternity patients to optimise antibiotic prescribing and to improve maternal and neonatal health outcomes.
Relapse after glofitamab has a poor prognosis and rates of CD20 loss are high
Authors: Grigg Samuel , Minson Adrian , Prins Elizabeth , Dickinson Michael J.
Published: May 2024

We reviewed cases with aggressive B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma who relapsed or progressed following glofitamab. The prognosis was poor, with low rates of response to subsequent salvage therapies, and a median overall survival of 4.1 months from the time of progression. There were high rates of CD20 loss (59%) at the time of relapse. In a field where CD20 × CD3 bispecific antibodies are entering routine clinical use, our experience highlights a potential means of resistance. It illustrates both the need to further characterise mechanisms of CD20 loss, and to pursue clinical trials of novel non‐CD20‐directed treatments in this cohort.
Targeting noncoding RNAs to treat atherosclerosis
Authors: Sopić Miron , Vladimirov Sandra , Munjas Jelena , Mitić Tijana , Hall Ignacio Fernando , Jusic Amela , Ruzic Dusan , Devaux Yvan ,   AtheroNET COST Action CA21153 (https://atheronet.eu/)
Published: May 2024

Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are pivotal for various pathological processes, impacting disease progression. The potential for leveraging ncRNAs to prevent or treat atherosclerosis and associated cardiovascular diseases is of great significance, especially given the increasing prevalence of atherosclerosis in an ageing and sedentary population. Together, these diseases impose a substantial socio‐economic burden, demanding innovative therapeutic solutions. This review explores the potential of ncRNAs in atherosclerosis treatment. We commence by examining approaches for identifying and characterizing atherosclerosis‐associated ncRNAs. We then delve into the functional aspects of ncRNAs in atherosclerosis development and progression. Additionally, we review current RNA and RNA‐targeting molecules in development or under approval for clinical use, offering insights into their pharmacological potential. The importance of improved ncRNA delivery strategies is highlighted. Finally, we suggest avenues for advanced research to accelerate the use of ncRNAs in treating atherosclerosis and mitigating its societal impact.

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed issue Non‐coding RNA Therapeutics. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v182.2/issuetoc
The use and potential of artificial intelligence for supporting clinical observation of child behaviour
Authors: Minnis Helen , Vinciarelli Alessandro , Alsofyani Huda
Published: May 2024

Background

Observation of child behaviour provides valuable clinical information but often requires rigorous, tedious, repetitive and time expensive protocols. For this reason, tests requiring significant time for administration and rating are rarely used in clinical practice, however useful and effective they are. This article shows that Artificial Intelligence (AI), designed to capture and store the human ability to perform standardised tasks consistently, can alleviate this problem.

Case study

We demonstrate how an AI‐powered version of the Manchester Child Attachment Story Task can identify, with over 80% concordance, children with insecure attachment aged between 5 and 9 years.

Discussion

We discuss ethical issues to be considered if AI technology is to become a useful part of child mental health assessment and recommend practical next steps for the field.
Abnormal methylation mediated upregulation of LINC00857 boosts malignant progression of lung adenocarcinoma by modulating the miR‐486‐5p/NEK2 axis
Authors: Fu Haoyu , Zhang Mingming , Liu Xiaohui , Yang Yiming , Xing Ying
Published: May 2024

LINC00857 is frequently dysregulated in varying cancers, which in turn exerts carcinogenic effects; however, its DNA methylation status in promoter region and molecular mechanisms underlying the progression of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remain rarely understood. Through bioinformatics analysis, we examined the expression state and methylation site of LINC00857 in LUAD and further investigated the properties of LINC00857 as a competitive endogenous RNA in the cancer progression. The current study revealed that the overexpression of LINC00857 in LUAD tissue and cells was mainly caused by the hypomethylation of the promoter region. LINC00857 knockdown prominently reduced cell proliferation, impeded cell migration and invasion, and restrained lymph node metastasis, with enhancing radiosensitivity. The effects of LINC00857 on tumor growth were also investigated in nude mice models. Subsequently, the downstream factors, miR‐486‐5p and NEK2, were screened, and the putative regulatory axis was examined. Overall, the regulatory effect of methylation‐mediated LINC00857 overexpression on miR‐486‐5p/NEK2 axis may be a new mechanism for LUAD progression.
Association of BKV viremia and nephropathy with adverse alloimmune outcomes in kidney transplant recipients
Authors: Rampersad Christie , Wiebe Chris , Balshaw Robert , Bullard Jared , Gibson Ian W. , Trachtenberg Aaron , Shaw James , Villalobos Armelle Perez Cortes , Karpinski Martin , Goldberg Aviva , Birk Patricia , Pinsk Maury , Rush David N. , Nickerson Peter W. , Ho Julie
Published: May 2024

Background

Immunosuppression reduction for BK polyoma virus (BKV) must be balanced against risk of adverse alloimmune outcomes. We sought to characterize risk of alloimmune events after BKV within context of HLA‐DR/DQ molecular mismatch (mMM) risk score.

Methods

This single‐center study evaluated 460 kidney transplant patients on tacrolimus‐mycophenolate‐prednisone from 2010‐2021. BKV status was classified at 6‐months post‐transplant as “BKV” or “no BKV” in landmark analysis. Primary outcome was T‐cell mediated rejection (TCMR). Secondary outcomes included all‐cause graft failure (ACGF), death‐censored graft failure (DCGF), de novo donor specific antibody (dnDSA), and antibody‐mediated rejection (ABMR). Predictors of outcomes were assessed in Cox proportional hazards models including BKV status and alloimmune risk defined by recipient age and molecular mismatch (RAMM) groups.

Results

At 6‐months post‐transplant, 72 patients had BKV and 388 had no BKV. TCMR occurred in 86 recipients, including 27.8% with BKV and 17% with no BKV (p = .05). TCMR risk was increased in recipients with BKV (HR 1.90, (95% CI 1.14, 3.17); p = .01) and high vs. low‐risk RAMM group risk (HR 2.26 (95% CI 1.02, 4.98); p = .02) in multivariable analyses; but not HLA serological MM in sensitivity analysis. Recipients with BKV experienced increased dnDSA in univariable analysis, and there was no association with ABMR, DCGF, or ACGF.

Conclusions

Recipients with BKV had increased risk of TCMR independent of induction immunosuppression and conventional alloimmune risk measures. Recipients with high‐risk RAMM experienced increased TCMR risk. Future studies on optimizing immunosuppression for BKV should explore nuanced risk stratification and may consider novel measures of alloimmune risk.