bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Massively Parallel Polyribosome Profiling Reveals Translation Defects of Human Disease-Relevant UTR Mutations
Authors: Li Wei-Ping , Su Jia-Ying , Chang Yu-Chi , Wang Yun-Lin , Chiang Hung-Lun , Hsieh Yu-Tung , Chiang Yi-Hsuan , Ko Yen-Ling , Chiang Bing-Jen , Yang Cheng-Han , Huang Yen-Tsung , Lin Chien-Ling
Published: April 2024

The untranslated regions (UTRs) of mRNAs harbor regulatory elements influencing translation efficiency. Although 3.7% of disease-relevant human mutations occur in UTRs, their exact role in pathogenesis remains unclear. Through metagene analysis, we mapped pathogenic UTR mutations to regions near coding sequences, with a focus on the upstream open reading frame (uORF) initiation site. Subsequently, we utilized massively parallel poly(ribo)some profiling to compare the ribosome associations of 6,555 pairs of wildtype and mutant UTR fragments. We identified 46 UTR variants that altered polysome profiles, with enrichment in pathogenic mutations. Both univariate analysis and the elastic model highlighted the significance of motifs of short repeated sequences, including SRSF2 binding sites, as mutation hotspots that lead to aberrant translation. Furthermore, these polysome-shifting mutations exhibited considerable impact on RNA secondary structures, particularly for upstream AUG-containing 5’ UTRs. Integrating these features, our model achieved high accuracy (AUROC > 0.8) in predicting polysome-shifting mutations in the test dataset. Additionally, several lines of evidence indicate that changes in uORF usage underlie the translation deficiency arising from these mutations. Illustrating this, we demonstrate that a pathogenic mutation in the IRF6 5’ UTR suppresses translation of the primary open reading frame by creating a uORF. Remarkably, site-directed ADAR editing of the mutant mRNA rescued this translation deficiency. Overall, our study provides insights into the molecular mechanisms of UTR mutations and their links to clinical impacts through translation defects.
Mutations in the IgG B cell receptor associated with class-switched B cell lymphomas
Authors: Wasim Laabiah , Chu Sin Wah Tooki , Sale Ben , Pickard Lucy , Léonard Simon , Zhang Lingling , Tolarová Helena , Tean Zhang Sung , Engels Niklas , Calado Dinis P. , Tarte Karin , Okosun Jessica , Forconi Francesco , Tolar Pavel
Published: April 2024

Immunoglobulin class-switching from IgM to IgG enhances B cell receptor (BCR) signalling1,2and promotes germinal centre (GC) B cell responses to antigens3,4. In contrast, non-Hodgkin lymphomas derived from GC B cells typically avoid IgG BCR expression and retain the unswitched IgM BCR, suggesting that the IgG BCR may protect B cells from malignant transformation5,6. However, the mechanism of this phenomenon and its significance for the pathogenicity of IgG-expressing lymphomas remains unclear. Here, we report that IgG-positive follicular lymphoma (FL) and the related EZB subset of diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) acquire mutations in the IgG heavy chain, disrupting its unique intracellular tail. Enforced class switching of IgM-expressing EZB DLBCL cell lines to IgG reduces BCR surface levels, signalling via phosphoinositide-3 kinase (PI3K), levels of MYC, cell proliferation and in vivo growth. Inhibiting GSK3, a target of BCR-PI3K signalling, or stimulating the BCR rescues IgG+cell proliferation. In contrast, IgG tail-truncating mutations enhance BCR surface expression, intracellular signalling and competitive growth. These findings suggest that the expansion of IgG-switched GC-like B lymphoma cells is limited by low tonic PI3K activity of the wild-type IgG BCR, but a subset of these cancers acquires mutations of the IgG intracellular tail that reverse this effect, promoting the oncogenicity of their BCRs. The presence of IgG tail mutations underscores the importance of isotype-specific BCR signalling in the pathogenesis of FL and EZB DLBCL and can potentially inform therapeutic targeting with BCR signalling inhibitors or antibody-drug conjugates.
Colour preference in juvenile European lobster (Homarus gammarus)
Authors: Bell Matt E. , Kuvaldin Nicholas , Frontaura Erik Romero , Kuebutornye Felix K.A. , Domech Paula Costa , Wan Alex H. L.
Published: April 2024

Lobsters are high-value marine-fished species, and re-stocking efforts are essential for replenishing depleted wild populations and ensuring the longevity of these valuable marine species. The need for stock enhancement and hatcheries for aquaculture is vital to reduce the strain on wild populations. Therefore, environmental colours should be acknowledged when rearing lobsters in terms of behaviour, growth, movement, and survival. However, the behavioural effects the surrounding colour poses are virtually unknown. To better understand this behaviour, the movement of juvenile European lobsters (Homarus gammarus) was analysed through videos in two sub-trials. Lobsters were acclimated to custom-made alternating colour chambers, allowing for colour preferences based on individual movement. Sub-trial one alternated between black, red, blue, green, white, and yellow. The study identified that there was a significant preference for black (1 hour and 51 minutes) and red (1 hour and 33 minutes), indicating a potential underlying benefit for juvenileH. gammarusdevelopment. Despite this, little is known about the overall association of colour and lobster perception. A better understanding of environmental colour preference may guide the construction of aquaculture units to suit colour preference and enhance acclimation into newly released environments. This experiment aims to determine the preferred colours of stage four juvenileH. gammarusin a controlled laboratory setting and inspire further research to explore this unfamiliar field.
Conformational dynamics associated with remote residues regulate the kinetic properties of homologous glutamate dehydrogenases (GDHs)
Authors: Godsora Barsa Kanchan Jyotshna , Das Parijat , Sairaman Anjali , Mishra Prasoon Kumar , Kaledhonkar Sandip , Punekar Narayan S. , Bhaumik Prasenjit
Published: April 2024

Glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) is a key enzyme in all living organisms and some of the GDHs exhibit substrate-dependent homotropic cooperativity. However, the mode of allosteric communication during the homotropic effect in GDHs remains poorly understood. In this study, we examined two homologous GDHs,Aspergillus nigerGDH (AnGDH) andAspergillus terreusGDH (AtGDH), with differing substrate utilization kinetics to uncover the factors driving their distinct behavior. The crystal structures and first-ever cryo-EM structures of apo-AtGDH captured arrays of conformational ensembles. Comparative structural analysis has revealed a wider mouth opening in allosteric AnGDH (∼ 21 Å) compared to non-allosteric AtGDH (∼17 Å) in their apo states. A network of interaction related to the amino acid substitutions in Domain II is responsible for differential structural dynamics in these GDHs. Remarkably, we identified one remotely located substitution in Domain II, i.e., R246 to S, a part of the network, which reversed the kinetic properties of AtGDH into an allosteric one and controls the mouth opening. Our data also indicate that dynamic discrepancy influences the substrate binding affinity and catalytic activity in AnGDH and AtGDH. We have successfully demonstrated for the first time, that remotely located residues and the conformational dynamics regulate the kinetic properties in homologous GDHs.
The cochlear hook region detects harmonics beyond the canonical hearing range
Authors: Horii Kazuhiro , Ogawa Bakushi , Nagase Noriko , Morimoto Iori , Abe Chikara , Ogawa Takenori , Choi Samuel , Nin Fumiaki
Published: April 2024

Ultrasound, or sound at frequencies exceeding the conventional range of human hearing, is not only audible to mice, microbats, and dolphins, but also creates an auditory sensation when delivered through bone conduction in humans. Although ultrasound is utilized for brain activation and in hearing aids, the physiological mechanism of ultrasonic hearing remains unknown. In guinea pigs, we found that ultrasound above the hearing range delivered through ossicles of the middle ear evokes an auditory brainstem response and a mechano-electrical transduction current through hair cells, as shown by the local field potential called the cochlear microphonic potential (CM). The CM synchronizes with ultrasound, and like the response to audible sounds is actively and nonlinearly amplified. In vivo optical nano-vibration analysis revealed that the sensory epithelium in the hook region, the basal extreme of the cochlear turns, resonates in response both to ultrasound within the hearing range and to harmonics beyond the hearing range. The results indicate that hair cells can respond to stimulation at the optimal frequency and its harmonics, and the hook region detects ultrasound stimuli with frequencies more than two octaves higher than the upper limit of the ordinary hearing range.
Genome-wide analyses of variance in blood cell phenotypes provide new insights into complex trait biology and prediction
Authors: Xiang Ruidong , Liu Yang , Ben-Eghan Chief , Ritchie Scott , Lambert Samuel A. , Xu Yu , Takeuchi Fumihiko , Inouye Michael
Published: April 2024

Blood cell phenotypes are routinely tested in healthcare to inform clinical decisions. Genetic variants influencing mean blood cell phenotypes have been used to understand disease aetiology and improve prediction; however, additional information may be captured by genetic effects on observed variance. Here, we mapped variance quantitative trait loci (vQTL), i.e. genetic loci associated with trait variance, for 29 blood cell phenotypes from the UK Biobank (N∼408,111). We discovered 176 independent blood cell vQTLs, of which 147 were not found by additive QTL mapping. vQTLs displayed on average 1.8-fold stronger negative selection than additive QTL, highlighting that selection acts to reduce extreme blood cell phenotypes. Variance polygenic scores (vPGSs) were constructed to stratify individuals in the INTERVAL cohort (N∼40,466), where genetically less variable individuals (low vPGS) had increased conventional PGS accuracy (by ∼19%) than genetically more variable individuals. Genetic prediction of blood cell traits improved by ∼10% on average combining PGS with vPGS. Using Mendelian randomisation and vPGS association analyses, we found that alcohol consumption significantly increased blood cell trait variances highlighting the utility of blood cell vQTLs and vPGSs to provide novel insight into phenotype aetiology as well as improve prediction.
The Impacts of Oral Anticoagulants on Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation Across Five Stages of Renal Function
Authors: Liao Jo-Nan , Chan Yi-Hsin , Lee Hsin-Fu , Yeh Yung-Hsin , Chang Shang-Hung , Chen Shih-Ann , Chao Tze-Fan
Published: April 2024

Background

To analyze the impact of using different renal function equations and stroke prevention strategy in atrial fibrillation (AF) across all chronic kidney disease (CKD) stages.

Methods

We used the Cockcroft-Gault (CG), Modified Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD), and Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equations to classify 39,217 patients into stage 1 to 5 CKD during July 1st, 2001, and September 30st, 2018. The endpoint is a composite outcome including ischemic stroke or major bleeding or mortality.

Results

More patients belonged to stage 1 and 2 CKD using the MDRD and CKD-EPI equations. In subgroups of patients with eGFR-MDRD or eGFR-CKD-EPI ≥ 60 mL/min, a 17-18% increase of event was observed in patients with eGFR-CG < 60 mL/min compared to those ≥ 60 mL/min. Compared to no oral anticoagulant (OAC), OAC use was associated with a significantly lower risk of event across stage 1 to 4 CKD but not in stage 5 CKD. Both warfarin and NOACs exhibited better outcome compared to no OAC across stage 1 to 4 CKD while NOACs was associated with more risk reduction compared to warfarin. Among patients on OACs, there was a trend toward better outcome with NOAC than warfarin across stage 2-4 CKD but not in stage 1 and 5 CKD.

Conclusions

OAC should be used in stage 1 to 4 CKD with NOAC exhibiting the trend of better outcome through stage 2 to 4 CKD than warfarin. For stage 5 CKD, optimal strategy remains undetermined.

Clinical Perspective

What Is New?The stages of renal function of AF patients varied significantly with different renal equations, and tthe CG equation remained effective in differentiating clnical outcomes for patients with eGFR-MDRD ≥ 60 mL/min or eGFR-CKD-EPI ≥ 60 mL/min

What Are the Clinical Implications?OAC should be used in stage 1 to 4 CKD with NOAC exhibiting the trend of better outcome through stage 2 to 4 CKD than warfarin.
An international factorial vignette-based survey of intubation decisions in acute hypoxemic respiratory failure
Authors: Yarnell Christopher J , Paranthaman Arviy , Reardon Peter , Angriman Federico , Bassi Thiago , Bellani Giacomo , Brochard Laurent , De Grooth Harm Jan , Dragoi Laura , Gaus Syafruddin , Glover Paul , Goligher Ewan C , Lewis Kimberley , Li Baoli , Kareemi Hashim , Tirupakuzhi Vijayaraghavan Bharath Kumar , Mehta Sangeeta , Mellado-Artigas Ricard , Moore Julie , Morris Idunn , Roman-Sarita Georgiana , Pham Tai , Sereeyotin Jariya , Tomlinson George , Wozniak Hannah , Yoshida Takeshi , Fowler Rob ,   Canadian Critical Care Trials Group
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Intubation is a common procedure in acute hypoxemic respiratory failure (AHRF), with minimal evidence to guide decision-making. We conducted a survey of when to intubate patients with AHRF to measure the influence of clinical variables on intubation decision-making and quantify variability.

Methods

We developed an anonymous factorial vignette-based web survey to ask clinicians involved in the decision to intubate “Would you recommend intubation?” Respondents selected an ordinal recommendation from a 5-point scale ranging from “Definite no” to “Definite yes” for up to 10 randomly allocated vignettes. We disseminated the survey through clinical and academic societies, analyzed responses using Bayesian proportional odds modeling with clustering by individual, country, and region, and reported mean odds ratios (OR) with 95% credible intervals (CrI).

Results

Between September 2023 and January 2024, 2,294 respondents entered 17,235 vignette responses in 74 countries [most common: Canada (29%), USA (26%), France (9%), Japan (8%), and Thailand (5%)]. Respondents were attending physicians (63%), nurses (13%), trainee physicians (9%), respiratory therapists (9%), other (6%). Lower oxygen saturation, higher inspired oxygen fraction, non-invasive ventilation compared to high-flow, tachypnea, neck muscle use, abdominal paradox, drowsiness, and inability to obey were associated with increased odds of intubation; diagnosis, vasopressors, and duration of symptoms were not. Within a country the odds of recommending intubation changed between clinicians by an average factor of 2.60, while changing between countries within a region changed it by 1.56.

Conclusion

In this international, interprofessional survey of more than 2000 practicing clinicians, intubation for patients with AHRF was mostly decided based on oxygenation, breathing pattern, and consciousness, but there was important variation across individuals and countries.
SECONDARY STRESSORS AND THEIR PSYCHOSOCIAL IMPACTS ON HEALTHCARE STAFF: LESSONS FROM A QUALITATIVE SYSTEMATIC REVIEW FROM THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC IN THE UK
Authors: Ntontis Evangelos , Williams Richard , Luzynska Katarzyna , Wright Abigail , Rousaki Anastasia
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Background

Extreme events (e.g., floods and disease outbreaks) can overwhelm healthcare workers (HCWs) and healthcare systems. During the COVID-19 pandemic, high levels of distress and mental ill health were reported by HCWs.

Aim

To examine and synthesise research findings reported in the qualitative literature regarding the stressors, and their psychosocial impacts, that HCWs faced in the UK during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to provide lessons for future support.

Method

Qualitative articles were identified in EMBASE and OVID [pre-registered on PROSPERO: CRD42022304235]. Studies needed to have been published between January 2021 and January 2022 and to have examined the impact of COVID-19 on UK healthcare workers. We included 27 articles that represented the experiences of 2,640 healthcare workers, assessed their quality using the NICE criteria, and integrated their findings using thematic synthesis.

Results

Several secondary stressors were identified apart from the SARS-CoV-2 virus (the primary stressor), including lack of personal protective equipment, ineffective leadership and communication, high workloads, and problems stemming from uncertainty and a lack of knowledge. These stressors were related to various adverse psychosocial outcomes including worrying about oneself and others, fatigue, lack of confidence in oneself and in senior managers, impacts on teamwork, and feeling unappreciated or that one’s needs are not recognised.

Conclusions

Distress in HCWs proliferated due to the influence of secondary stressors. However, they can be modified to remove their negative effects. Consequently workforce planning should shift from focusing on individual change towards amending psychosocial environments in which healthcare staff work.
Genotyping of paired clinical isolates usingPvCSP, PvMSP3α, PvMSP3β and exploring STRs to differentiate between relapse and reinfection inP. vivax
Authors: Savargaonkar Deepali , Gahtori Renuka , Sinha Swati , Kumari Preeti , Mahale Paras , Srivastava Bina , Pande Veena , Pawar Himmat Singh , Anvikar Anupkumar R
Published: April 2024

The challenge of eliminating Vivax malaria is due to the relapses caused by hypnozoites. Despite several attempts to identify molecular markers to differentiate between relapse and new infection, a reliable marker has not yet been established. To address this issue, a genomic study was conducted on paired samples of patients who had experienced Plasmodium vivax infection twice. Genotyping was performed on paired samples from 10 vivax malaria patients using five molecular markers to distinguish between relapse and new infection. Our findings indicate that one sample represented a second episode that was a relapse of the first, while another sample had three episodes, two of which were relapse episodes. We combined our clinical records with molecular inferences to identify each pair as a relapse. This particular study provides a momentary view of forthcoming research endeavors that could be undertaken to distinguish between a relapse and a novel infection. Given the notable genetic variability of Plasmodium vivax, it is crucial to harness various markers to discern between relapse and new infection. The findings of this study are poised to be of immense utility for upcoming marker research in the aforesaid aspect.
Electron emission from deep traps in
HfO2
under thermal and optical excitation
Authors: Izmailov Roman , Strand Jack , Ronchi Nicolo' , Shluger Alexander , Afanas'ev Valeri
Published: April 2024

The ratio between the energies of optical and thermal ionization depends on the defect nature and the strength of the interaction of trapped electrons with phonons. Knowing this ratio for a certain type of defect allows one to predict, e.g., thermal emission energies from the optically measured values. We present the results of direct empirical extraction of the ratio between optical and thermal electron emission energies for HfO2 bulk electron traps combined with theoretical analysis of the physical mechanism of electron transitions from the trapped state to the mobility edge. We show that, by applying different excitation mechanisms, we affect the same deep traps inside the HfO2 band gap; i.e., these traps are both optically and thermally active and are likely to have similar nature. The extracted empirical optical/thermal ionization energy ratio of 2.2±0.3 is in good agreement with the polaronic nature of the probed electron traps, as shown by the results of theoretical calculations. Our results provide experimental and theoretical methodologies for consistently linking thermal and optical ionization energies of electron traps and describing their distributions in the band gap of amorphous oxides, and can help improve modeling frameworks for reliability issues related to oxide traps.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Gamification acceptance model towards online learning among college students: an empirical study based on mediation and moderation
Authors: Huang Shanshan , Zhang Hongfeng
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this empirical study is to explore the factors that influence college students' intention to engage in online gamified learning in Guangdong and Macao.

Design/methodology/approach

This study analyzed 289 valid questionnaires to statistically explore the factors that affect college students' intention to engage in online gamified learning.

Findings

The study discovered that extroverted learning style, perceived usefulness and perceived enjoyment have a positive and significant impact on students' intent to participate. Moreover, perceived usefulness and perceived enjoyment partially mediate the effect of extroverted learning style on the intention to engage in online gamified learning. Additionally, the impact of perceived usefulness on intention is moderated by different cultural backgrounds, with the moderation effect being stronger for Macao students than for non-Macao students.

Originality/value

This empirical study, based on the technology acceptance model (TAM), explores the factors that influence college students' intention to engage in online gamified learning in Guangdong and Macao and constructs a gamification acceptance model.
Green branding in fast fashion: examining the impact of social sustainability claims on Chinese consumer behaviour and brand perception
Authors: Javed Tahira , Mahmoud Ali B. , Yang Jun , Zhao Xu
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the ecological awareness of Chinese consumers towards fast fashion and examine the effect of social sustainability claims on green brand image and purchase intentions in China, considering China’s unique environmental policy landscape and its significant role in the global fast fashion industry. The study explores the role of altruistic values in promoting sustainability within the well-known fast fashion brand “H” and how they shape brand image, consumer satisfaction and brand equity.

Design/methodology/approach

The study collected data from 257 Chinese participants and used a serial mediation model through the PROCESS macro in SPSS to analyse the correlation between green brand image, created through sustainability claims and consumer purchase intentions. The model also assessed the intermediary effects of brand image, satisfaction and equity.

Findings

The findings of the research indicate a direct and positive relationship between green brand image and consumer purchase intentions, emphasising the need for clothing and textile industry marketers to strategically promote altruistic values in their sustainability efforts and highlighting the importance of ecological awareness in shaping consumer behaviour in the Chinese context. This approach enhances green satisfaction and green brand equity and ultimately leads to higher green purchase intentions.

Originality/value

This study provides significant insights into the effectiveness of incorporating social sustainability claims in advertising to improve a brand’s green image and influence consumer behaviour. It emphasises the importance of altruistic values in sustainability strategies, offering valuable guidelines for marketers in enhancing green satisfaction and brand equity, thereby boosting consumer purchase intentions in the context of green branding and sustainability advertising. Focussing specifically on the Chinese market, this research sheds light on the impact of ecological awareness among Chinese consumers within the fast-fashion industry. Given China’s substantial role in shaping global fast-fashion production and its evolving environmental policies, this focus adds significant depth to our understanding of sustainability claims’ influence within this crucial consumer base.
Innovation in vine growing in a context of climate change: AKIS and map of knowledge in Central Spain
Authors: Cruz José Luis , Barrutieta Alba , García-Díaz Andrés , Zamorano Rodríguez Jose Pablo
Published: April 2024

Purpose

To address the challenges of the agricultural sector, innovation is necessary. This study aims to focus on knowledge circulation as a basis to facilitate innovation in viticulture in the context of climate change.

Design/methodology/approach

We have conducted interviews with viticulture stakeholders in Central Spain (Madrid region) on their perceptions and concerns about climate change, knowledge on practices to mitigate its effects on this crop and their relationship with each other for knowledge exchange. A map showing the knowledge nodes and their relationships with other stakeholders has been drawn based on the answers obtained.

Findings

Winegrowers have already noticed the effects of climate change, and they are changing some agricultural practices. Drip irrigation was the most frequently mentioned option to minimize these effects. The map of knowledge identifies the main nodes in the information flow. Results also highlight different approaches to climate change and interesting nuances in the maps of knowledge among winegrowers with and without winery.

Research limitations/implications

This paper is focused on the Madrid region, a territory that is still consolidating its wine sector at the economic and marketing levels. We understand that regions with more consolidated or stronger sectors involve maps of knowledge more complex than that obtained in this study.

Practical implications

Showing the nodes of knowledge, as well as the weaknesses and strengths of the information circuit in the wine sector in the Madrid region, is very relevant to developing strategies aimed at supporting innovation in this sector. From a practical point of view, strategies for knowledge generation and circulation are only one part of the innovation process – policies for financial and technical support are key complementary measures.

Social implications

Identification of key agents in the innovation process in the wine sector is essential to foster innovation processes. Ultimately, this will lead to more efficient adaptation to new challenges in the sector.

Originality/value

The Agriculture Knowledge and Innovation Systems (AKIS) approach has a consolidated theoretical framework that pays great attention to knowledge flows, but specific studies are needed to capture the reality of AKIS by sector and by region.
Looking ahead to the integration of farmers into export markets: the concept of prospective export-market integration and evidence from the transitional context of Vietnamese shrimp farming
Authors: Ta Minh Quang , Lin-Schilstra Li , Cong Tru Le , Ingenbleek Paul T.M. , van Trijp Hans C.M.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study explores the integration of smallholder farmers into the export market in Vietnam, an emerging economy. By introducing a prospective framework, we seek to provide insight into factors that influence this integration process.

Design/methodology/approach

This study examines the expected growth and entry of Vietnamese smallholder farmers into high-value export markets. We collected information from 200 independent farmers as well as from five local extension workers, who provided information on 50 farmers.

Findings

The study reveals that the adoption of new business models is more influential than the variables traditionally included in models of export-market integration in predicting expected growth and entry into high-value export markets. In addition, the results highlight divergent views between farmers and extension workers regarding the role of collectors, with farmers perceiving collectors as potential partners, while extension workers see them as impediments to growth.

Research limitations/implications

The prospective model presented in this study highlights the importance of policy interventions aimed at promoting new business models and addressing infrastructure and capital constraints for the sustainable transformation of agricultural sectors in emerging markets.

Originality/value

This is one of the first articles to apply a prospective approach to export-market integration and demonstrate its efficacy through an empirical study. The suggested prospective approach could facilitate the design of policies aimed at export-market integration within the context of dynamic, emerging markets.
The public participation in the implementation of the UNESCO’s Historic Urban Landscape approach
Authors: Elwazani Salim , Khorshidifard Sara
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study examines the public participation in the implementation of the Historic Urban Landscape (HUL), a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) approach for urban development. HUL has six Critical Steps and four Tools Categories relating to community engagement, knowledge and planning, regulatory system and financial instruments. The HUL public participation component has materialized variably across the adopting cities, challenged by the local implementation capacity. In response, we have singled out two research questions revolving around the participants’ characteristics and participation methods.

Design/methodology/approach

This study instrumentalizes case studies as a research methodology and thematic literature as a theoretical context. The HUL projects for Ballarat, Australia and Cuenca, Ecuador have been selected as sources of published information because they exhibit comparative differences in completing community engagement. We have compared the community engagement accounts of the two cities.

Findings

The Ballarat and Cuenca HUL project accounts point out to commonalities and variances in responding to the HUL public participation mandate. The findings for the participants’ characteristics involve project setting, participants categories and participants empowerment; the findings for the participation methods involve initial preparation, domestic and international expertise and public conversation.

Originality/value

The results of the study help define public participation practices in HUL project implementations. The results present an opportunity for city officials, HUL project planners and field administrators for making informed decisions particularly in relation to the two public participation domains, the participants’ characteristics and the engagement methods.
Factors affecting the green economy: the mediating role of foreign direct investment
Authors: Miraz Mahadi Hasan , Soo Tiffany Sing Mei
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The objective of this study is to examine the various factors that exert an influence on the green economy. This study also investigates the impact of foreign direct investment (FDI) on the Malaysian economy, specifically focusing on its position as a mediator. This research also examines the correlation between FDI and its influence on the contemporary green economy.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors employed quantitative methodologies and a self-administered survey to evaluate data and derive a definitive conclusion. The result was constructed using SPSS and SEM-PLS as the analytical software.

Findings

The study reveals that technological advancement, investment country and government policy significantly and positively affect the green economy, catalyse SDG goals and restructure the economy in better shape.

Originality/value

The current empirical research bridges the research gap in the context of technology advancement in government policy from emerging economies by exploring important factors, proposing their impact on the performance of the green economy, and empirically testing those hypothesized relationships. This study deciphers that FDI influences the green economy, where the investment country plays a significant role. Also, for a graphical presentation of this abstract, see the online appendix.
Suppression of horizontal vibrations in high-speed elevators using active shock absorber to assist traditional damping systems
Authors: Ren Yaxing , Li Ren , Ru Xiaoying , Niu Youquan
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to design an active shock absorber scheme for use in conjunction with a passive shock absorber to suppress the horizontal vibration of elevator cars in a smaller range and shorter time. The developed active shock absorber will also improve the safety and comfort of passengers driving in ultra-high-speed elevators.

Design/methodology/approach

A six-degree of freedom dynamic model is established according to the position and condition of the car. Then the active shock absorber and disturbance compensation-based adaptive control scheme are designed and simulated in MATLAB/Simulink. The results are analysed and compared with the traditional shock absorber.

Findings

The results show that, compared with traditional spring-based passive damping systems, the designed active shock absorber can reduce vibration displacement by 60%, peak acceleration by 50% and oscillation time by 2/3 and is more robust to different spring stiffness, damping coefficient and load.

Originality/value

The developed active shock absorber and its control algorithm can significantly reduce vibration amplitude and converged time. It can also adjust the damping strength according to the actual load of the elevator car, which is more suitable for high-speed elevators.
Leading by example: understanding the trickle-down effect of voluntary green behavior in the workplace
Authors: Xiao Jincen , Yan Yan , Li Baifan , Liu Shuang
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Drawing on the framework of the trickle-down effect and social learning theory, this study aims to examine how and when leaders' voluntary green behavior (VGB) stimulates that of employees.

Design/methodology/approach

This study conducted a time-lagged multisource field survey. The final sample consisted of 417 employees matched to 67 leaders. The unconflated multilevel modeling (MLM) approach was employed.

Findings

A social learning mechanism underlies the trickle-down effect of leaders' VGB, which involves observation and imitation. The green role model influence serves as a mediator of these two processes. Moreover, leader-member exchange (LMX) moderates the strength of the social learning mechanism.

Practical implications

Leaders can gain useful insights of how to promote employees' VGB and are further inspired to reflect on the managerial philosophy of leading by example.

Originality/value

This study contributes to workplace green behavior literature by examining the trickle-down effect of leader VGB and uncovering a social learning mechanism. This study also offers promising directions for leadership research concerning about role modeling.
The antecedents and outcomes of electronic customer-to-customer interaction: a PLS-SEM and fsQCA approach
Authors: Zhou Ying , Zhang Yuqiang , Furuoka Fumitaka , Kumar Sameer
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Social commerce (s-commerce) has gained widespread popularity as a social platform where customers engage in resource-sharing activities such as information exchange, advice-seeking and expressing their opinions on mutual interests. However, existing studies have not fully comprehended the drivers of electronic customer-to-customer interaction (eCCI) and how such behavior contributes to the customer “stick” on s-commerce sites. This study develops the Motivation–Opportunity–Ability (MOA) theory and investigates the impact of MOA factors on eCCI, which in turn affects customer stickiness.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was used to acquire data from 455 valid respondents, and the research employed a combination of fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) and structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results revealed associations between perceived self-efficacy, intrinsic motivation, tie strength with other customers, eCCI and customer stickiness.

Originality/value

Considering the limited availability of complete eCCI frameworks in existing scholarly works, the authors present valuable perspectives on the role of consumer characteristics as both antecedents and consequences of eCCI. Additionally, this study proposes a research agenda for the field of eCCI on s-commerce sites.
Analysis of sustainable investment policies for housing demand in Qatar via hybrid quantum fuzzy decision-making model
Authors: Fetais Alanoud , Dincer Hasan , Yüksel Serhat , Aysan Ahmet
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate sustainable investment policies for housing in Qatar.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes a new model for analyzing sustainable investment policies for housing demand in Qatar via a hybrid quantum fuzzy decision-making model. The study processed the criteria with the facial expression-based Quantum Spherical fuzzy DEMATEL and ranked the alternatives with the facial expressions-based quantum spherical fuzzy TOPSIS. Four factors were determined due to a comprehensive literature review (Environment, Housing Design, Building Design, and Surrounding the building), with five sustainable investment policy alternatives (Electricity production with renewable energies, Recycling systems and materials in construction, Transport with less carbon emission, Biodiversity for residents, and Resilience to natural disasters).

Findings

The analysis indicates that the design of the building is the most important factor (0.254), while the environment is the most influencing factor (0.253) regarding housing demand in Qatar. Transport with less carbon emission and electricity production with renewable energies are the most critical alternative investment policies.

Originality/value

This study provides useful insights for regulators, policymakers, and stakeholders in Qatar’s sustainable investment policies for housing demand. The main motivation of this study is that there is a need for a novel model to evaluate the sustainable investment policies for housing demand. The main reason is that existing models in the literature are criticized due to some issues. In most of these models, emotions of the experts are not taken into consideration. However, this situation has a negative impact on the appropriateness of the findings. Because of this situation, in this proposed model, facial expressions of the experts are considered. With the help of this issue, uncertainties in the decision-making process can be handled more effectively.
Harvesting insights: a qualitative exploration of facilitators, inhibitors and information seeking in family-based sustainable organic farm businesses
Authors: Lone Aashiq Hussain , Rashid Irfana
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the landscape of family-based organic farm businesses in the Kashmir Valley, India, analyzing the factors that either facilitate or hinder their adoption. The research also intends to uncover sources of information seeking. The primary purpose is to provide qualitative evidence to address existing knowledge gaps and offer insights for promoting sustainable farm practices in the region.

Design/methodology/approach

The research employs a qualitative approach, drawing on focus group interviews. The study thoroughly explores the background and relevant literature, utilizing a comprehensive research framework. Data is collected from family based farmers engaged in organic farming practices in the Kashmir Valley. The data is analyzed using content analysis ensuring a robust and thorough exploration of the subject matter.

Findings

This study reveals a notable transition in the agricultural landscape of the Kashmir Valley, showcasing a widespread adoption of organic farming on considerable land. The study reveals that key facilitators for organic farming among family-based farms are farm productivity, entrepreneurial intention, governance, environmental consciousness, and health concerns. The exchange of information, both through formal and informal channels, is found to be a crucial factor influencing the adoption of organic farming. The study also unveiled significant inhibitors that hinder the adoption of organic farming on commercial scales, including on-farm challenges such as difficulties in acquiring inputs and facing reduced yields, market-related concerns, and a lack of support and assistance from government agencies.

Originality/value

This research contributes significantly to the existing literature by advancing the understanding of organic farm business and agri-entrepreneurship. It unveils key factors that either support or hinder family-based organic farms, identifying crucial information sources and presenting valuable insights for policymakers. Furthermore, this study provides practical guidance for overcoming obstacles, enhancing infrastructure, and translating identified facilitators into successful agri-ventures in the Kashmir region.
Using semantic differential method to evaluate users’ olfactory perceptions in academic library
Authors: Yu Yingying , Su Wencheng , Lu Zhangping , Liu Guifeng , Ni Wenjing
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Spatial olfactory design in the library appears to be a practical approach to enhance the coordination between architectural spaces and user behaviors, shape immersive activity experiences and shape immersive activity experiences. Therefore, this study aims to explore the association between the olfactory elements of library space and users’ olfactory perception, providing a foundation for the practical design of olfactory space in libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the olfactory perception semantic differential experiment method, this study collected feedback on the emotional experience of olfactory stimuli from 56 participants in an academic library. From the perspective of environmental psychology, the dimensions of pleasure, control and arousal of users’ olfactory perception in the academic library environment were semantically and emotionally described. In addition, the impact of fatigue state on users’ olfactory perception was analyzed through statistical methods to explore the impact path of individual physical differences on olfactory perception.

Findings

It was found that users’ olfactory perception in the academic library environment is likely semantically described from the dimensions of pleasure, arousal and control. These dimensions mutually influence users’ satisfaction with olfactory elements. Moreover, there is a close correlation between pleasure and satisfaction. In addition, fatigue states may impact users’ olfactory perception. Furthermore, users in a high-fatigue state may be more sensitive to the arousal of olfactory perception.

Originality/value

This article is an empirical exploration of users’ perception of the environmental odors in libraries. The experimental results of this paper may have practical implications for the construction of olfactory space in academic libraries.
Administration mode matters for 5‐fluorouracil therapy: Physiologically based pharmacokinetic evidence for avoidance of myelotoxicity by continuous infusion but not intravenous bolus
Authors: Chao Chih‐Jia , Gardner Iain , Lin Chun‐Jung , Yeh Kun‐Huei , Lu Wan‐Chen , Abduljalil Khaled , Ho Yunn‐Fang
Published: April 2024

Aims

Pre‐emptive prediction to avoid myelosuppression and harmful sequelae is difficult given the complex interplay among patients, drugs and treatment protocols. This study aimed to model plasma and bone marrow concentrations and the likelihood of myelotoxicity following administration of 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) by diverse intravenous (IV) bolus or continuous infusion (cIF) regimens.

Methods

Using physicochemical, in vitro and clinical data obtained from the literature consisting of various regimens and patient cohorts, a 5‐FU physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model was developed. The predicted and observed PK values were compared to assess model performance prior to examining myelotoxicity potential of IV bolus vs. cIF and DPYD wild type vs. genetic variant.

Results

The established model was verified by utilizing 5‐FU concentration–time profiles of adequate heterogeneity contributed by 36 regimens from 15 studies. The study provided corroborative evidence to explain why cIF (vs. IV bolus) had lower myelotoxicity risk despite much higher total doses. The PBPK model was used to estimate the optimal dosage in patients heterozygous for the DPYD c.1905 + 1G > A allele and suggested that a dose reduction of at least 25% was needed (compared to the dose in wild‐type subjects).

Conclusion

A verified PBPK model was used to explain the lower myelotoxicity risk of cIF vs. IV bolus administration of 5‐FU and to estimate the dose reduction needed in carriers of a DPYD variant. With appropriate data, expertise and resources, PBPK models have many potential uses in precision medicine application of oncology drugs.
Thirst and drugs: A study in the World Health Organization's pharmacovigilance database
Authors: Montastruc Jean‐Louis
Published: April 2024

Thirst is a complex physiological compensatory mechanism but could also be associated with drugs. This association was poorly investigated previously. Using the WHO global pharmacovigilance database, Vigibase®, disproportionality analyses potential associations between exposure to drugs and thirst reports were performed. All reports of thirst in adults between 01/01/2000 and 31/12/2023 were included. Results are expressed as reporting odds ratio (ROR). Analysis of the 3186 reports of thirst (978 ‘serious’) allowed, first, to confirm the association between thirst and exposure to vasopressin antagonists (tolvaptan), lithium, gliflozins (dapagliflozin, empagliflozin), pregabalin and antimuscarinic drugs (glycopyronium, oxybutynin, tiotropium). Second, new safety signals were described with monoamine reuptake inhibitors (antidepressants: duloxetine, venlafaxine; anti‐obesity agent: sibutramine), antipsychotic (olanzapine), glucocorticoid (prednisolone), diuretic (furosemide) drugs as well with ribavirin or sodium oxybate. This study is the first to offer a list of drugs associated with thirst in humans.