bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Context-dependent differences in the functional responses of Lactobacillaceae strains to fermentable sugars
Authors: Suissa Ronit , Oved Rela , Maan Harsh , Gilhar Omri , Meijler Michael , Koren Omry , Kolodkin-Gal Ilana
Published: July 2022

Lactobacillaceae are Gram-positive rods, facultative anaerobes, and belong to the lactic acid bacteria (LAB) that frequently serve as probiotics. We systematically compared five LAB strains for the effects of different carbohydrates on their free-living and biofilm lifestyles. We found that fermentable sugars triggered a heterogeneous response in LAB strains, frequently manifested specifically in altered carrying capacity during planktonic growth and colony development. The fermentation capacities of the strains were compatible and could not account for heterogeneity in their differential carrying capacity in liquid and on a solid medium. Among tested LAB strains, L. paracasei, and L. rhamanosus GG survived self-imposed acid stress while L. acidophilus was extremely sensitive to its own glucose utilization acidic products. The addition of a buffering system during growth on a solid medium significantly improved the survival of most tested probiotic strains during fermentation. We suggest that the optimal performance of the beneficial microbiota members belonging to lactobacilli is heterogeneous and varies as a function of the growth model and the dependency on a buffering system.
Activating and repressing gene expression between chromosomes during stochastic fate specification
Authors: Urban Elizabeth A. , Chernoff Chaim , Layng Kayla Viets , Han Jeong , Anderson Caitlin , Konzman Daniel , Johnston Robert J.
Published: July 2022

DNA elements act across long genomic distances to regulate gene expression in processes including enhancer-promoter interactions and imprinting. During the gene-regulatory phenomenon of transvection in Drosophila, DNA elements on one allele of a gene act between chromosomes to increase or decrease expression of another allele of the gene. Despite the discovery of transvection over 60 years ago, little is known about its biological role. Furthermore, how different cis regulatory DNA elements contribute to the activation or repression of transvection at distinct times during development is unclear. Here, we studied the stochastic expression of spineless (ss) in developing photoreceptors in the fly eye to understand gene activation and repression between chromosomes. We identified a biological role for transvection in regulating expression of naturally occurring ss alleles. We characterized CRISPR-engineered deletions of sequences across the ss locus and identified DNA elements required for activating and repressing transvection. We found that different enhancers participated in transvection at different times during development to promote gene expression and specify cell fates. Bringing a silencer element on a heterologous chromosome into proximity with the ss locus “reconstituted” the gene, leading to repression. Our studies show that transvection regulates gene expression via distinct DNA elements at specific timepoints in development, with implications for genome organization and architecture.
HP1-driven phase separation recapitulates the thermodynamics and kinetics of heterochromatin condensate formation
Authors: Tortora Maxime M.C. , Brennan Lucy D. , Karpen Gary , Jost Daniel
Published: July 2022

The spatial segregation of pericentromeric heterochromatin (PCH) into distinct, membrane-less nuclear compartments involves the binding of Heterochromatin Protein 1 (HP1) to H3K9me2/3-rich genomic regions. While HP1 exhibits liquid-liquid phase separation propertiesin vitro, its mechanistic impact on the structure and dynamics of PCH condensate formationin vivoremains largely unresolved. Here, using biophysical modeling, we systematically investigate the mutual coupling between self-interacting HP1-like molecules and the chromatin polymer. We reveal that the specific affinity of HP1 for H3K9me2/3 loci facilitates coacervationin nucleo, and promotes the formation of stable PCH condensates at HP1 levels far below the concentration required to observe phase separation in purified protein assaysin vitro. These heterotypic HP1-chromatin interactions give rise to a strong dependence of the nucleoplasmic HP1 density on HP1-H3K9me2/3 stoichiometry, consistent with the thermodynamics of multicomponent phase separation. The dynamical crosstalk between HP1 and the viscoelastic chromatin scaffold also leads to anomalously-slow equilibration kinetics, which strongly depend on the genomic distribution of H3K9me2/3 domains, and result in the coexistence of multiple long-lived, microphase-separated PCH compartments. The morphology of these complex coacervates is further found to be governed by the dynamic establishment of the underlying H3K9me2/3 landscape, which may drive their increasingly abnormal, aspherical shapes during cell development. These findings compare favorably to 4D microscopy measurements of HP1 condensates that we perform in liveDrosophilaembryos, and suggest a general quantitative model of PCH formation based on the interplay between HP1-based phase separation and chromatin polymer mechanics.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

The compartmentalization of pericentromeric heterochromatin (PCH), the highly-repetitive part of the genome, into membrane-less organelles enriched in HP1 proteins, is critical to both genetic stability and cell fate determination. While HP1 can self-organize into liquid-like condensatesin vitro, the roles of HP1 and the polymer chromatin in forming 3D PCH domainsin vivoare still unclear. Using molecular simulations, we show that key kinetic and thermodynamic features of PCH condensates are consistent with a phase-separation mode of organization driven by the genomic distribution of methylated domains and HP1 self-attraction and affinity for heterochromatin. Our predictions are corroborated by live-microscopy performed during early fly embryogenesis, suggesting that a strong crosstalk between HP1-based phase separation and chromosome mechanics drive PCH condensate formation.
Non-isolated neural tube defects with comorbid malformations are responsive to population-level folic acid supplementation in Northern China
Authors: Che Xiaoyu , Liu Jufen , Galea Gabriel L. , Zhang Yali , Greene Nicholas D. E. , Zhang Le , Jin Lei , Wang Linlin , Ren Aiguo , Li Zhiwen
Published: July 2022

Background

Comorbid congenital malformation of multiple organs may indicate shared genetic/teratogenic causality. Folic acid supplementation reduces population-level prevalance of isolated neural tube defects (NTDs), but whether complex cases involving independent malformtions are also repsonsive is unknown. We aimed to describe the epidemiology of NTDs with comorbid malformations in a Chinese population and assess the impact of folic acid supplementation.

Methods

Data from five counties in northern China were obtained between 2002 to 2021 through a population-based birth defects surveillance system. All live births, stillbirths, and terminations because of NTDs at any gestational age were recorded. NTDs were classified as spina bifida, anaecephaly or encephalocele. Isolated NTDs included spina bifida cases with presumed secondary malformations (hydrocephalus, hip dislocation, talipes). Non-isolated NTDs were those with independent concomittant malformations.

Results

A total of 296,306 births and 2,031 cases of NTDs were recorded in 2002-2021. 4.8 % of NTDs (97/2031) had comorbid defects, which primarily affected the abdominal wall (25/97), musculoskeletal system (24/97), central nervous system (22/97), and face (15/97). The relative risk of cleft lip or/and palate, limb reduction defects, hip dislocation, gastroschisis, omphalocele, hydrocephalus and urogenital system defects was significantly greater in infants with NTDs than the general population. Population-level folic acid supplementation significantly reduced the prevalence of both isolated and non-isolated NTDs.

Conclusion

Epidemiologically, non-isolated NTDs follow similar trends as isolated cases and are responsive to primary prevention by folic acid supplementation. Various clinically-important congenital malformations are over-represented in individuals with NTDs, suggesting common etiology.
Is anybody ‘Learning’ from Deaths? Sequential content and reflexive thematic analysis of national statutory reporting within the NHS in England 2017-2020
Authors: Brummell Z , Braun D , Hussein Z , Moonesinghe SR , Vindrola-Padros C
Published: July 2022

Introduction

The imperative to learn when a patient dies due to problems in care is absolute. In 2017, the Learning from Deaths (LfDs) framework, a countrywide patient safety programme, was launched in the National Health Service (NHS) in England. NHS Secondary Care Trusts (NSCTs) are legally required to publish quantitative and qualitative information relating to deaths due to problems in care within their organisation, including any learning derived from these deaths.

Method

All LfDs report from 2017 – 2020 were reviewed and evaluated, quantitatively and qualitatively using sequential content and reflexive thematic analysis, through a critical realist lens.

Results

The majority of NSCTs have identified learning, actions and, to a lesser degree, assessed the impact of these actions. The most frequent learning relates to missed/delayed/uncoordinated care and communication/cultural issues. System issues and lack of resources feature infrequently. There is significant variation amongst NSCTs as to what ‘learning’ in this context actually means and a lack of oversight combining patient safety initiatives.

Discussion

Engagement of NSCTs with the LfDs programme varies significantly. Learning as a result of the LfDs programme is occurring. The significance or value of this learning in preventing future patient deaths remains unclear. Consensus about what constitutes effective learning with regards to patient safety needs to be defined and agreed upon.
Comparative analysis of retracted pre-print and peer-reviewed articles on COVID-19
Authors: Sra Manraj Singh , Arora Mehak , Mazumder Archisman , Goyal Ritik Mahaveer , Parameswaran Giridara G , Meena Jitendra Kumar
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Due to the accelerated pace and quantum of scientific publication during the COVID-19 pandemic, a large number of articles on COVID-19 have been retracted. Pre-prints though not peer-reviewed offer the advantage of rapid dissemination of new findings. In this study, we aim to systematically compare the article characteristics, time to retraction, social media attention, citations, and reasons for retraction between retracted pre-print and peer-reviewed articles on COVID-19.

Methods

We utilized the Retraction Watch database to identify retracted articles on COVID-19 published from 1stJanuary 2020 to 10thMarch 2022. The articles were reviewed and metadata such as article characteristics (type, category), time to retraction, reasons for retraction, and Altmetric Attention Score (AAS) and citation count were collected.

Results

We identified 40 retracted pre-prints and 143 retracted peer-reviewed articles. The median (IQR) retraction time for pre-print and peer-reviewed articles was 29 (10-81.5) days and 139 (63-202) days (p = 0.0001). Pre-prints and peer-reviewed article had median (IQR) AAS of 26.5 (4-1155) and 8 (1-38.5), respectively (p = 0.0082). The median (IQR) citation count for pre-prints and peer-reviewed articles was 3 (0-14) and 3 (0-17), respectively (p = 0.5633). The AAS and citation counts were correlated for both pre-prints (r = 0.5200, p = 0.0006) and peer-reviewed articles(r = 0.5909, p = 0.0001). The commonest reason for retraction for pre-prints and peer-reviewed articles concerns about data and results.

Conclusion

The increased adoption of pre-prints results in faster identification of erroneous articles compared to the traditional peer-review process.
Early-life inflammatory markers and subsequent episodes of depression and psychotic experiences in the ALSPAC birth cohort
Authors: Edmondson-Stait A. J. , Shen X. , Adams M. J. , Barbu M. C. , Jones H. J. , Miron V. E. , Allardyce J. , Boardman J. P. , Lawrie S. M. , McIntosh A. M. , Khandaker G. M. , Kwong A. S. F. , Whalley H. C.
Published: July 2022

Background

Inflammation is implicated in depression and psychosis, including association of childhood inflammatory markers on the subsequent risk of developing symptoms. However, it is unknown whether early-life inflammatory markers are associated with the number of depressive and psychotic symptoms from childhood to adulthood.

Methods

Using the prospective Avon Longitudinal Study of Children and Parents birth cohort (N=up-to 6,401), we have examined longitudinal associations of early-life inflammation [exposures: interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP) levels at age 9y; IL-6 and CRP DNA-methylation (DNAm) scores at birth and age 7y; and IL-6 and CRP polygenic risk scores (PRSs)] with the number of depressive episodes and psychotic experiences (PEs) between ages 10-28 years. Psychiatric outcomes were assessed using the Short Mood and Feelings Questionnaire and Psychotic Like Symptoms Questionnaires, respectively. Exposure-outcome associations were tested using negative binomial models, which were adjusted for metabolic and sociodemographic factors.

Results

Serum IL-6 levels at age 9y were associated with the total number of depressive episodes between 10-28y (n=4,262; β=0.086; 95%CI:0.036-0.137; pFDR=0.009). CRP DNAm score at birth was associated with total number of PEs, size but this association did not survive correction for multiple testing (n=822; β=0.204; 95%CI:0.024-0.388; puncorrected=0.027; pFDR=0.252). Other immune measures were not associated with depression or PEs.

Conclusions

Early-life inflammatory markers are associated with the burden of depressive episodes and of PEs subsequently from childhood to adulthood. These findings support a potential role of early-life inflammation in the aetiology of depression and psychosis and highlight inflammation as a potential target for treatment and prevention.
Tejas functions as a core component of nuage assembly and precursor processing inDrosophilapiRNA biogenesis
Authors: Lin Yuxuan , Suyama Ritsuko , Kawaguchi Shinichi , Iki Taichiro , Kai Toshie
Published: July 2022

Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), a class of 23- to 29-nt gonad-specific small RNAs, function to combat transposons in gonads. piRNAs are thought to be processed and amplified in membrane-less granules called nuage in germline cells. InDrosophila, two PIWI family proteins, several Tudor-domain containing (Tdrd) proteins and RNA helicases are assembled at perinuclear region of germline cells, forming nuage to process into piRNAs. Among those, Tejas (Tej), a fly homolog of mouse Tdrd5, has been known as a robust nuage component required for piRNA biogenesis in germline cells, yet its molecular functions remained elusive. To understand its molecular basis on nuage assembly and functions for piRNA biogenesis, we investigated subcellular localization of fluorescent-tagged nuage proteins including Tej and monitored the behavior of piRNA precursors. Tej functions as a core component for assembly of Vasa and Spindle-E to nuage granules through distinct motifs, respectively. The loss of Tej function resulted in malformation of nuage and accumulation of piRNA precursorsen routein processing, perturbing further piRNA biogenesis in germline cells. Our study also revealed that the low complexity region of Tej regulates the mobility of nuage by phase separation. Collectively, we propose that Tej plays a pivotal role in processing of piRNA precursors by assembling RNA helicases, Vasa and Spindle-E, to nuage, by controlling the dynamics of nuage components.
Dissection of the Head of a Live Fly for Functional Imaging
Authors: Chen Pei-Ju , Li Yan , Lee Chi-Hon
Published: July 2022

In this protocol, we outline procedures to mount the fly and to open up the head cuticle to expose the optic lobes for in vivo imaging. The fly is first inserted into a custom-made fly chamber in which the fly's head is stabilized on a piece of aluminum foil. Once the fly is mounted in the chamber, its head cuticle is removed, exposing the optic lobe for recording. The brain tissues (above the foil), including the optic lobes, should be bathed in fly saline. Meanwhile, the eyes (below the foil) are kept dry to receive light stimuli during the recording. A considerable level of expertise and hand dexterity is required to handle a small animal such as a fly, especially when opening its head capsule without damaging the brain tissue. This expertise should be gained through mindful repetition of the protocol. With appropriate preparation and skills, the success rate for this procedure can be >95%. Using this protocol, it is possible to record ultraviolet (UV)-sensing photoreceptors, which have long visual fibers that terminate at the medulla (the second optic neuropil). Depending on the visual neurons of interest, some modifications to fly mounting might be needed.
Immunizing Animals
Authors: Greenfield Edward A.
Published: July 2022

The traditional method for generating polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies requires the immunization of an animal. Selecting the best species of animal and getting that animal's immune system to respond to a target antigen with an antibody response are essential to obtaining good-quality antibodies and hybridomas. There are only a limited number of opportunities for a researcher to intervene to manipulate and tailor the response to a particular antigen. Here we present advice and methods for designing the way in which the antigen is presented to the immune system (i.e., the immunization protocol), including the choice of animal, the antigen dose, the use of adjuvants, the route and number of injections, and the period between injections.
Oral RNAi for Gene Silencing in Mosquitoes: From the Bench to the Field
Authors: Mysore Keshava , Hapairai Limb K. , Realey Jacob S. , Sun Longhua , Roethele Joseph B. , Duman-Scheel Molly
Published: July 2022

RNA interference (RNAi) has played a key role in the field of insect functional genomics, a discipline that has enhanced the study of developmental, evolutionary, physiological, and molecular biological phenomena in a wide variety of insects, including disease vector mosquitoes. Here we introduce a recently optimized RNAi procedure in which adult mosquitoes are fed with a colored sugar bait containing small interfering RNA (siRNA). This procedure effectively and economically leads to gene silencing, is technically straightforward, and has been successfully used to characterize a number of genes in adult mosquitoes. We also discuss how, in addition to laboratory applications, this oral RNAi procedure might one day be used in the field for controlling insect pests.
The bond valence model as a prospective approach: examination of the crystal structures of copper chalcogenides with Cu bond valence excess
Authors: Moëlo Yves , Popa Aurelian Florin , Dubost Vincent
Published: July 2022

Bond valence analysis has been applied to various copper chalcogenides with copper valence excess, i.e. where the formal valence of copper exceeds 1. This approach always reveals a copper bond valence excess relative to the unit value, correlated to an equivalent ligand bond valence deficit. In stoichiometric chalcogenides, this corresponds to one ligand electron in excess per formula unit relative to the valence equilibrium considering only CuI. This ligand electron in excess is 50/50 shared between all or part of the Cu-atom positions, and all or part of the ligand-atom positions. In Cu3Se2, only one of the two Cu positions is involved in this sharing. It would indicate a special type of multicentre bonding (`one-electron co-operative bonding'). Calculated and ideal structural formulae according to this bond valence distribution are presented. At the crystal structure scale, Cu–ligand bonds implying the single electron in excess form one-, two- or three-dimensional subnetworks. Bond valence distribution according to two two-dimensional subnets is detailed in covellite, CuS. This bond valence description is a formal crystal–chemical representation of the metallic conductivity of holes (mixing between Cu 3d bands and ligand p bands), according to published electronic band structures. Bond valence analysis is a useful and very simple prospective approach in the search for new compounds with targeted specific physical properties.
Resolving the structure of V3O7·H2O and Mo-substituted V3O7·H2O
Authors: Schoiber Jürgen , Söllinger Daniela , Baran Volodymyr , Diemant Thomas , Redhammer Günther J. , Behm R. Jurgen , Pokrant Simone
Published: July 2022

Vanadate compounds, such as V3O7·H2O, are of high interest due to their versatile applications as electrode material for metal-ion batteries. In particular, V3O7·H2O can insert different ions such as Li+, Na+, K+, Mg2+ and Zn2+. In that case, well resolved crystal structure data, such as crystal unit-cell parameters and atom positions, are needed in order to determine the structural information of the inserted ions in the V3O7·H2O structure. In this work, fundamental crystallographic parameters, i.e. atomic displacement parameters, are determined for the atoms in the V3O7·H2O structure. Furthermore, vanadium ions were substituted by molybdenum in the V3O7·H2O structure [(V2.85Mo0.15)O7·H2O] and the crystallographic positions of the molybdenum ions and their oxidation state are elucidated.
Crystal structure of 4-(2-methoxyphenyl)piperazin-1-ium 3,5-dintrosalicylate
Authors: Subha Veerappan , Seethalakshmi Thangaraj , Balakrishnan Thangavelu , Percino M. Judith , Venkatesan Perumal
Published: July 2022

The title salt [systematic name: 4-(2-methoxyphenyl)piperazin-1-ium 2-carboxy-4,6-dinitrophenolate], C11H17N2O+·C7H3N2O7
−, exhibits secondary nitrogen atoms (N—H) in the 2-methoxyphenylpiperazine (2MeOPP) cation, which is protonated with a phenolic hydrogen atom of 3,5-dinitrosalicylic acid (DNSA). One of the oxygen atoms of the nitro group in the 3,5-dinitrosalicylate anion is disordered over two orientations with occupancy factors of 0.65 (7) and 0.35 (7) . The 2-methoxyphenylpiperazinium cation and 3,5-dinitrosalicylate anion are linked in the asymmetric unit by a bifurcated N—H...O hydrogen bond, which formed is between the H atom in the protonated piperazinium unit of the cation and the carboxylic acid group in the anion. The piperazine ring adopts a chair conformation. The crystal structure features N—H...O and C—H...O hydrogen bonds interactions, which lead to the formation of a sandwich-like arrangement. Hirshfeld surface analysis was used to determine the relative contributions of various intermolecular interactions, indicating that that H...O/O...H (38. 3%) and H...H (31. 8%) contacts are the major contributors.
Crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of 2-(4-amino-6-phenyl-1,2,5,6-tetrahydro-1,3,5-triazin-2-ylidene)malononitrile dimethylformamide hemisolvate
Authors: Mahmudov Ibadulla , Atioğlu Zeliha , Akkurt Mehmet , Abdullayev Yusif , Sujayev Afsun , Bhattarai Ajaya
Published: July 2022

The title compound, 2C12H10N6·C3H7NO, crystallizes as a racemate in the monoclinic P21/c space group with two independent molecules (I and II) and one dimethylformamide solvent molecule in the asymmetric unit. Both molecules (I and II) have chiral centers at the carbon atoms where the triazine rings of molecules I and II are attached to the phenyl ring. In the crystal, molecules I and II are linked by intermolecular N—H...N, N—H...O and C—H...N hydrogen bonds through the solvent dimethylformamide molecule into layers parallel to (001). In addition, C—H...π interactions also connect adjacent molecules into layers parallel to (001). The stability of the molecular packing is ensured by van der Waals interactions between the layers. The Hirshfeld surface analysis indicates that N...H/H...N (38.3% for I; 35.0% for II), H...H (28.2% for I; 27.0% for II) and C...H/H...C (23.4% for I; 26.3% for II) interactions are the most significant contributors to the crystal packing.
Natural djurleite with refined composition Cu61.39S32 revealing disorder of some Cu sites
Authors: Zhou Yawei , Fan Changzeng , Wen Bin , Zhang Lifeng
Published: July 2022

A djurleite crystal was discovered from a natural sample originally labelled as chalcocite. The djurleite crystal under investigation has a refined composition of Cu61.39S32, thus revealing a Cu deficiency compared to the originally reported Cu62S32 phase [Evans (1979). Z. Kristallogr.
150, 299–320], where all atomic sites are reported to be fully occupied. In addition, the current refinement revealed a splitting of eight of the Cu sites into pairs.
Traditional communities and dietary habits: understanding the dynamics of food and climate change in the western Himalayan region
Authors: Das Suraj , Mishra Anindya Jayanta
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The present exploratory study aimed (1) to explore the traditional dietary habits of local communities, (2) to analyze the shift in traditional eating practices and (3) to examine the changes observed in socio-cultural beliefs system due to climate change.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional study was conducted with purposive sampling of 210 households in the select ten villages of the western Himalayan region. Open-ended interview questionnaires and a close-ended survey on a 5-point Likert scale are used. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24 is used for the exploratory factor analysis. Further, Atlas-ti version 8 is also employed for thematic analysis.

Findings

The exploratory and thematic analysis illustrated that socio-ecological beliefs are crucial in food choices, but cultural beliefs are also changing due to climate change. Thus, the shift in socio-cultural beliefs can significantly affect the nutritional security of the indigenous societies during climate-induced emergencies in the mountain regions.

Practical implications

Therefore, the findings of the study are significant for a comprehensive understanding of the traditional dietary practice of the indigenous community for an evidence-based inclusive food security and climate change adaptation policy.

Originality/value

The inclusion of cultural practices is evident for ensuring the nutritional security. But, the magnitude of the climate-induced impacts on customary societies is not yet fully understood. Thus, the current study was conducted.
MNEs’ corporate governance disclosure: a strategic response to corrupt environments
Authors: Juliao-Rossi Jorge , Losada-Otalora Mauricio , Católico-Segura Diego Fernando
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This study aims to examine how corruption influences the voluntary disclosure of corporate governance (CG)-related information by developed country multinationals (DC-MNEs) and emerging market multinationals (EM-MNEs) investing in six Latin American countries.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses information from 300 MNEs included in the 2018 ranking of the 500 Largest Latin American companies (America Economía, 2018). Each MNE’s final annual report for the financial year ending 2018 was examined and coded to obtain the corporate governance disclosure index. Fractional probit regression was applied to test the hypotheses of the research.

Findings

DC-MNEs disclose more CG-related information in corrupt environments than EM-MNEs. This differentiated behavior occurs because DC-MNEs face higher legitimacy pressures in corrupt environments than EM-MNEs and because EM-MNEs are more experienced than DC-MNEs in dealing with such corrupt environments.

Practical implications

While both EM-MNEs and DC-MNEs need to continue investing in corrupt countries to grow, they need to disclose CG-related information as a strategic tool to manage the legitimacy issues triggered by corruption in the markets they operate.

Originality/value

Despite corruption being pervasive in emerging markets, its implications for firms’ strategic behaviors are still under-researched. This paper extends the scope of corporate governance and international business fields by studying how MNEs respond to relevant dimensions of the macro environment. This research shows that voluntary disclosure of CG-related information is a strategic response of the MNEs to gain legitimacy in corrupt environments.
A framework for continuation of digitalization in construction: a PLS-SEM approach
Authors: Bajpai Avirag , Misra Subhas C.
Published: July 2022

Purpose

Indian construction firms are falling behind in the use of digital technology in the workplace, and this study aims to give a framework and assess the role of enablers in the implementation and continuing digitalization of the Indian construction sector.

Design/methodology/approach

An exploratory qualitative research technique is used in this article, and multiple detailed interviews and surveys are done with professionals from the industry and academia. To conclude the significance and relevance of the different constructs and indicators, the partial least square-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) approach is used.

Findings

Barriers are essential enablers for effective implementation, while success factors are important drivers for the successful continuance of digitalization in the construction sector. However, stakeholders' perceived benefit has a substantial role in both implementation and continuance.

Research limitations/implications

In this research paper, the scope of this investigation for a generalized exploratory study is restricted to construction firms within India. Further, a rigorous longitudinal study may also be performed to examine the subjectivity of the responses in order to ensure digital continuation. This study identifies limited manifest indicators. Additional indications, however, may be included based on the other company's resources, structure and geographic location.

Practical implications

The study's findings have two implications. In the beginning, it gives a direction to the construction sector by highlighting the framework in which implementation and continuance both should have to be executed, and this is the critical area for the successful continuance of digitalization in construction. Second, the research shows that the digitalization process is similar to the adoption of innovation, in which the deployment and persistent use of the new technology are important for facilitating the transformation.

Originality/value

In two respects, the study is distinctive. To begin, this is one of the limited efforts to comprehend digitalization from the Indian perspective. Second, the study reveals that the PLS-SEM approach can be effectively used in the developing subject of the construction digitalization concept.
Monetary policy channels, sectoral outputs and sustainable growth in the ECOWAS region: a rigorous analysis and implications for policy
Authors: Orji Anthony , Ekeocha Davidmac Olisa , Ogbuabor Jonathan E. , Anthony-Orji Onyinye I.
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The market-based monetary policy framework has been favoured by Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) economies. Hence, this study aims to investigate the effect of monetary policy channels on the sectoral value added and sustainable economic growth in ECOWAS. Data from the World Bank and International Monetary Fund over 2013–2019 were sourced for thirteen member countries. ECOWAS is found to have very high inflation level, interest and exchange rates.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted the Driscoll–Kraay fixed-effects ordinary least squares regression (OLS) estimator.

Findings

The findings revealed that while the effect of monetary policy channels on the agricultural sector value added is largely heterogenous and significantly in-elastic, the one on the industrial and services sectors are overwhelmingly homogeneous and negative, but insignificant for the services sector. Moreover, the effect of monetary policy channels on sustainable economic growth is also homogeneously asymmetric, with imminent stagflation, while the interactive effects of monetary policy channels are heterogeneous on sustainable economic growth and economic sectors. Therefore, an inflation targeting monetary policy stance is generally recommended with prioritised exchange rate stabilisation amid sufficient fiscal space.

Originality/value

This is amongst the first studies to investigate monetary policy channels, sectoral outputs and sustainable growth in the ECOWAS region with a rigorous analysis and found implications for policy.
The intersection of trauma-informed futures and the coloniality of sexuality: building futures consciousness with Kenya’s LGBTQI+ community
Authors: Lichty Steven , Kamunya Francis
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is threefold: to pilot research on the role that trauma-healing and resilience play in developing futures consciousness/literacy; to explore how this informs the coloniality of sexuality; and to engage economically marginalised young gay and bisexual men in exploring future scenarios for the wider LGBTQI+ community in Kenya.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used participatory action research to pilot the study. Workshop sessions focused on exploratory futures using an integral futures framework. Futures tools used consisted of the futures triangle, polak game and a two-by-two matrix scenario building exercise.

Findings

Participants found that previous psychosocial support and mental health counselling enabled them to address past traumas, find healing and begin a productive journey of unpacking their understanding of agency and engage with developing personal and communal futures thinking – all prerequisites for effectively addressing decoloniality.

Originality/value

This research represents the only study of the four-way intersection of trauma-healing, futures consciousness/literacy, the queer community in Africa and decoloniality and coloniality of sexuality.
Camera eats first: exploring food aesthetics portrayed on social media using deep learning
Authors: Gambetti Alessandro , Han Qiwei
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore and examine discrepancies of food aesthetics portrayed on social media across different types of restaurants using a large-scale data set of food images.

Design/methodology/approach

A neural food aesthetic assessment model using computer vision and deep learning techniques is proposed, applied and evaluated on the food images data set. In addition, a set of photographic attributes drawn from food services and cognitive science research, including color, composition and figure–ground relationship attributes is implemented and compared with aesthetic scores for each food image.

Findings

This study finds that restaurants with different rating levels, cuisine types and chain status have different aesthetic scores. Moreover, the authors study the difference in the aesthetic scores between two groups of image posters: customers and restaurant owners, showing that the latter group tends to post more aesthetically appealing food images about the restaurant on social media than the former.

Practical implications

Restaurant owners may consider performing more proactive social media marketing strategies by posting high-quality food images. Likewise, social media platforms should incentivize their users to share high-quality food images.

Originality/value

The main contribution of this paper is to provide a novel methodological framework to assess the aesthetics of food images. Instead of relying on a multitude of standard attributes stemming from food photography, this method yields a unique one-take-all score, which is more straightforward to understand and more accessible to correlate with other target variables.
Innovation activities and R&D investments as determinants of ongoing or abandoned activities
Authors: Duarte Filipe A.P. , Madeira Maria José , Fonseca Susana Maria , Moura Dulcineia Catarina , Guia Ana Teresa Bernardo
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the effects of R&D investment as a determinant of ongoing or abandoned innovation activities. The literature review focuses especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that deploy R&D investment as a way of developing innovation processes.

Design/methodology/approach

This study’s design used a sample of 4,229 Portuguese SMEs to analyse the effects R&D investment has on the innovation activities; the results obtained demonstrate the great importance of firms investing in R&D internal activities for the development of their innovation process.

Findings

The most important findings highlight the types of activities that emerge as relevant to innovation processes susceptible for development to avoid abandoning and maintaining ongoing innovation activities. Among them, the authors would highlight the design of products or services, the introduction of innovations to the market and the acquisition of machinery, equipment and specific software, among others.

Originality/value

In addition, other types of activities emerge as relevant to innovation processes susceptible for development to avoid abandoning and maintaining ongoing innovation activities. This research adds value to the current literature mainly showing several determinants related to R&D, which could be used by SMEs to improve and develop their activities of innovation.
Unlocking supply chain agility and supply chain performance through the development of intangible supply chain analytical capabilities
Authors: Cadden Trevor , McIvor Ronan , Cao Guangming , Treacy Raymond , Yang Ying , Gupta Manjul , Onofrei George
Published: July 2022

Purpose

Increasingly, studies are reporting supply chain analytical capabilities as a key enabler of supply chain agility (SCAG) and supply chain performance (SCP). This study investigates the impact of environmental dynamism and competitive pressures in a supply chain analytics setting, and how intangible supply chain analytical capabilities (ISCAC) moderate the relationship between big data characteristics (BDC's) and SCAG in support of enhanced SCP.

Design/methodology/approach

The study draws on the literature on big data, supply chain analytical capabilities, and dynamic capability theory to empirically develop and test a supply chain analytical capabilities model in support of SCAG and SCP. ISCAC was the moderated construct and was tested using two sub-dimensions, supply chain organisational learning and supply chain data driven culture.

Findings

The results show that whilst environmental dynamism has a significant relationship on the three key BDC's, only the volume and velocity dimensions are significant in relation to competitive pressures. Furthermore, only the velocity element of BDC's has a significant positive impact on SCAG. In terms of moderation, the supply chain organisational learning dimension of ISCAC was shown to only moderate the velocity aspect of BDC's on SCAG, whereas for the supply chain data driven culture dimension of ISCAC, only the variety aspect was shown to moderate of BDC on SCAG. SCAG had a significant impact on SCP.

Originality/value

This study adds to the existing knowledge in the supply chain analytical capabilities domain by presenting a nuanced moderation model that includes external factors (environmental dynamism and competitive pressures), their relationships with BDC's and how ISCAC (namely, supply chain organisational learning and supply chain data driven culture) moderates and strengthens aspects of BDC's in support of SCAG and enhanced SCP.
A stepwise guide for healthcare professionals requesting compassionate release for patients who are incarcerated
Authors: Kanbergs Alexa , Garcia-Grossman Ilana , Ahalt Cyrus , DiTomas Michele , Bedard Rachael , Williams Brie
Published: July 2022

Purpose

Compassionate release is a process that allows for the early release or parole of some incarcerated people of advanced age, with life-limiting illness, complex medical care needs or significant functional decline. Despite the expansion of State and Federal compassionate release programs, this mechanism for release remains underutilized. Health-care professionals are central to the process of recommending compassionate release, but few resources exist to support these efforts. The purpose of this paper is to provide a guide for health-care professionals requesting compassionate release for patients who are incarcerated.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is stepwise guide for health-care professionals requesting compassionate release for patients who are incarcerated.

Findings

This study describes the role of the health-care professional in requesting compassionate release and offers guidance to help them navigate the process of preparing a medical declaration or request for compassionate release.

Originality/value

No prior publications have created a step-wise guide of this nature to aid health-care professionals through the compassionate release process.
What influences the behavior intention of movie theater customers? Comparing linear and nonlinear points of view
Authors: Tontini Gerson , Krause Vânia Montibeler , da Silva Luiz Fernando , Vieira Fabiana Rúbia , Santos Thiago , Andrade Josmar
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to identify the influence of dimensions of movie theater service on customer behavior intention, comparing linear and nonlinear methods.

Design/methodology/approach

With a sample of 345 cinema customers, the analysis compares penalty–reward contrast analysis (PRCA) and multiple linear regression analysis (MLR).

Findings

This research demonstrates that PRCA brings a better identification of the antecedents of customer behavior intention than MLR, showing that a nonlinear analysis can bring superior decision information to movie theater managers. Also, this study shows that superior performance of aspects related to the client's feelings leads the consumer to a tendency to return and recommend the cinema (behavior intention). This study also confirms that successful recovery actions can compensate for failures.

Originality/value

Although the nonlinear antecedents of customer satisfaction have been studied in the scientific literature, there is a gap of studies applying methods to identify nonlinear antecedents of customer behavior intention (tendency to return and recommend), particularly in the industry of movie theater services. The findings of this research may allow movie theaters to improve the service provided, confronting the great challenges of online movie-watching alternatives.
Toward green innovation ecosystems: past research on green innovation and future opportunities from an ecosystem perspective
Authors: Fan Xinyi , Shan Xueshu , Day Steven , Shou Yongyi
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to synthesize the extant literature on green innovation (GI), and more importantly, to provide future directions for GI research from the innovation ecosystem (IE) perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review is conducted to summarize the status of current GI research, followed by content analysis to identify connectivity and crossovers between key concepts in the bodies of GI and IE literature. Then, the authors propose a green innovation ecosystem (GIE) framework and offer recommendations for future research on GI.

Findings

It is evident that the bodies of GI and IE literature overlap on the roles of external actors, and yet, there is scant research investigating GI activities from the IE perspective. Moreover, there are multiple directions worthy of future research applying the proposed GIE framework.

Originality/value

Though the concept of ecosystem has become pervasive in innovation management research, this study is one of the first works to introduce IE concepts and propositions in the GI research context. This paper provides new knowledge on GIEs and sets the basis for further investigation.
Implementing the contextual safeguarding approach: a study in one local authority
Authors: Wilson Nathaniel , Diaz Clive , Usubillaga Juan
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This study aims to explore how local authority child and family practitioners understood and implement the contextual safeguarding approach focusing, in particular, on what practitioners felt supported and hindered implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative study drew upon semi-structured interviews and focus groups to explore the perspectives of 18 frontline workers, team managers and senior managers in a London authority. The transcribed accounts were analysed using thematic analysis.

Findings

Participants reported that the strain on services because of sustained budget cuts was overwhelming, even without the additional challenge of implementing this new approach. Further challenges in relation to implementation included parental-capacity focused legislation and conflicting perspectives between stakeholders. This study recommends that proper funding must be committed to safeguarding partnerships if contextual safeguarding is to be successfully implemented. Additionally, child protection practitioners should aim to develop a collaborative and child-welfare focused network of community agencies and organisations if young people are to be safeguarded in their communities.

Research limitations/implications

As the sample required specialist knowledge to participate in this study, this study cannot claim that the findings are generalisable to all social workers.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first external evaluation of the implementation of the contextual safeguarding approach in a local authority independent of the contextual safeguarding team at the University of Bedfordshire since the evaluation of Hackney.
Exploring entrepreneurial qualities for the sustainability of family businesses in Pakistan
Authors: Jamil Mahwish , Md Fadzil Ahmad Firdause , Waqar Amber , Yaacob Mohd Rafi
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study to explore the qualities of the entrepreneur which are required for the sustainability of the family business. The sustainability rate of family business has remained low, particularly with the generation change in the long term. In addition, the body of knowledge on entrepreneurial qualities in relation to family business sustainability is fragmented. Hence, an in-depth understanding on this phenomenon is imperative.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used qualitative study to explore entrepreneurial qualities that lead to family business sustainability in Pakistan. This study used a case study for in-depth analysis of determine the qualities of the entrepreneurs for sustaining entrepreneurs' business for a longer.

Findings

Based on findings, four main themes on the key elements for family business sustainability were identified: cognitive characteristics, leadership role, motivation, and personality traits. These main themes were further divided into sub-themes for in-depth understanding of the qualities of entrepreneur in family business sustainability phenomenon.

Originality/value

A broad range of studies have been conducted on entrepreneurial qualities in relation to business performance and success. However, studies on entrepreneurs and entrepreneurs' qualities have mostly focussed on organisational success, and there are limited studies that fully examine entrepreneurial qualities for family business sustainability. Family business sustainability has received considerably less attention.