bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a subsurface monitoring system for land subsidence hazard in the Bandung basin: a laboratory prototype
Authors: Sarah D , Zulfahmi Z , Sholehah A B , Riyani E A , Wahyudin  , Amar
Published: September 2024

Land subsidence is a global environmental hazard posed by urban area worldwide, causing degradation in environmental quality and leads to further disasters such as increased flood risk, contamination risk, and infrastructure damages. Anthropogenic causes, such as groundwater extraction and building weight, cause high land subsidence rates. The behaviour of the subsurface under the influence of anthropogenic causes must be well understood to mitigate this problem. Conventional subsurface monitoring is robust and costly. In this case, we aim to first develop a versatile and low-cost subsurface monitoring prototype for land subsidence at a laboratory scale using a model box. Methods employed were constructing an experiment model box, developing the monitoring system, and trial experiments in the laboratory. The sensors are linear vertical displacement transducer, potentiometer, water level and pressure sensors. The monitoring system uses Arduino microcontroller to convert sensors inputs to desirable outputs and a logger to record the real-time data and transmit it to personal computer in the laboratory. Land subsidence in the Gedebage area in Bandung basin was taken as a model case. The model box was filled with soil from Gedebage, Bandung. A scenario of exploitation of confined groundwater and weight of building was applied for the model case. The results show that the laboratory prototype can monitor the subsurface changes due to the applied anthropogenic forces. In the case of Bandung soil, groundwater exploitation did not immediately cause subsidence instantaneously. There is a time delay between the drawdown of groundwater level and the subsequent vertical deformation. The rate of subsidence varies spatially inside the tank, the largest is close to the pump well and surface loads. A maximum of 2.88 mm subsidence over 663 days was recorded following 1 m groundwater drawdown. This information asserts the importance of long-time monitoring in subsidence areas.
Climate change policy based on global study evolution 1979-2023: An insight and direction for Indonesia
Authors: Karinda K , Baharuddin T
Published: September 2024

Climate change is becoming an increasingly urgent issue and impacts countries around the world, including Indonesia, which are vulnerable to climate change. This research uses data sources in the form of research publication documents from the Scopus database by maximizing bibliometric analysis with Vosviewer. The main findings show that climate change is an urgent global challenge that requires active participation and profound contributions from Indonesia. Although the evolution of global studies on climate change policy provides valuable insights, Indonesia’s complex challenges, such as geographic diversity and the limited number of studies and publications, require a serious response. Understanding global climate change policy provides valuable insight for Indonesia in formulating future policy directions. Although the dominant research comes from environmental and social sciences, Indonesia needs to expand its involvement in sustainable economic development, green infrastructure, and renewable energy research. Cross-sector coordination and adequate financial and technological support are crucial in implementing this policy. This also requires adaptive regulation and public awareness.
Simple sterilization of rural household water by LDH (Layered Double Hydroxide)-embedded sheet
Authors: Johan E , Ihsan T , Matsue N
Published: September 2024

The lack of access to safe water is an urgent problem in rural communities. LDH (layered double hydroxide) is a potent material that effectively adsorbs most pathogens through its positive charge, but its powdery nature restricts its use in batch water. To overcome this, we developed LDH-embedded non-woven fabric sheets (LDH-ES) as a practical solution for sterilizing batch water. Zn/Al-LDH and Mg/Al-LDH were synthesized and embedded in fabric. Using Escherichia coli (DH5 α), two variants of 100 mL of DH5 α inoculated test solutions (1200 CFU/mL) were prepared: nutritionally poor (test water A) and moderately nutritious (test water B). Without adding LDH-ES, the viable counts in test water A were almost unchanged until 24 h, whereas in test water B it increased up to 19,000-fold after 24 h. Upon adding 162 cm2 of Zn/Al-LDH-ES (LDH = 0.2 g), both test water reduced the viable count to 0 CFU/mL after 3 h, achieving complete sterilization. In contrast, with Mg/Al-LDH-ES, the viable count after 24 h was 0 CFU/mL for test water A and 530 CFU/mL for test water B. The superior performance of Zn/Al-LDH-ES is ascribed to the additional antimicrobial effect of zinc. LDH-ES, easily retrievable post-sterilization, proves suitable for disinfecting rural household water.
Public health and water scarcity: the spatial distribution of quarter-disease patterns and access to clean water and safe drinking water in the water-scarce region of Makassar, Indonesia
Authors: Ridjal A T M , Dewi C , Basri  , Syatriani S , Syahrir M , Amaliah A R , Febriany I A
Published: September 2024

The scarcity and insufficient or poorly regulated water and sanitation will lead individuals to become vulnerable to different preventable health risks. When people lack even a basic drinking water solution, they rely on surface water and/or wastewater that is not risk-free. Furthermore, WHO (2019) stated that at least 2 billion individuals around the globe are using drinking water sources that are infected with feces. Tallo is one of the sub-districts in Makassar that is experiencing water scarcity, forcingly encouraging the community to use the available water sources, such as dug wells and rainwater. This study aimed to describe the spatial distribution of three-month disease patterns and access to clean water and safe drinking water in Tallo. Primary data was obtained from a face-to-face survey of 98 beneficiaries of Rainwater Harvesting (RWH) Tametotto and water clay filter in Tallo, while the spatial data was obtained from the spatially analyzed data by ArcGIS 8.0. The results revealed that the distribution of three-month diseases highly presented in diarrhea (8%) spatially shown around the river area, dermatitis (5%), and typhoid (3%). In addition, the most consumed drinking water is gallon mineral water, while the highest clean water accessed was from the artesian well in the entire research area. It concluded that the spatially distributed of the quarter diseases was diarrhea in the river area of Tallo (RT 3 and RT 4), and respondents mostly consumed gallons of mineral water for drinking and used artesian wells for Water, Hygiene, and Sanitation (WASH) in the whole area. It encouraged the government sectors to provide an appropriate water supply for Tallo as one of the water-scarce regions in Makassar and deliver education to people regarding WASH and the importance of safe water to avoid the occurrence of waterborne diseases.
Ammonium ion removal from contaminated water using Cikancra natural zeolite
Authors: Ahsan S A , Fahmi M A , Rohman A , Jakah  , Dida E N , Rusydi A F
Published: September 2024

Water quality in water bodies is deteriorating due to human activities such as industries, agriculture, and households. These activities have been reported to increase the levels of nitrogen species in water bodies, including ammonium (NH4
+). Various processes have been used to reduce NH4
+ concentration in water, including adsorption and ion exchange using zeolite which is renowned as an excellent adsorbent and ion exchange material. In this study, we assessed the ability of Cikancra natural zeolite to reduce the NH4
+ concentration in water. Heat pre-treatment was carried out on the zeolite to reveal its effect on the NH4
+ removal rate. Furthermore, several factors such as contact time, grain size, and initial NH4
+ concentration were evaluated to determine the optimum absorption condition. The experimental results reveal that heat-pretreated natural zeolite can reduce the NH4
+ concentration by up to 84% after 60 minutes of contact time. Furthermore, the absorption capacity of the zeolite is reaching 2.37 mg/g at an initial NH4
+ concentration of 50 mg/L. The evaluation using Freundlich and Langmuir isotherm models indicates that the process occurs physically due to Van Der Waals interaction between the adsorbate and the adsorbent.
Literature search sandbox: a large language model that generates search queries for systematic reviews
Authors: Adam Gaelen P , DeYoung Jay , Paul Alice , Saldanha Ian J , Balk Ethan M , Trikalinos Thomas A , Wallace Byron C
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Development of search queries for systematic reviews (SRs) is time-consuming. In this work, we capitalize on recent advances in large language models (LLMs) and a relatively large dataset of natural language descriptions of reviews and corresponding Boolean searches to generate Boolean search queries from SR titles and key questions.

Materials and Methods

We curated a training dataset of 10 346 SR search queries registered in PROSPERO. We used this dataset to fine-tune a set of models to generate search queries based on Mistral-Instruct-7b. We evaluated the models quantitatively using an evaluation dataset of 57 SRs and qualitatively through semi-structured interviews with 8 experienced medical librarians.

Results

The model-generated search queries had median sensitivity of 85% (interquartile range [IQR] 40%-100%) and number needed to read of 1206 citations (IQR 205-5810). The interviews suggested that the models lack both the necessary sensitivity and precision to be used without scrutiny but could be useful for topic scoping or as initial queries to be refined.

Discussion

Future research should focus on improving the dataset with more high-quality search queries, assessing whether fine-tuning the model on other fields, such as the population and intervention, improves performance, and exploring the addition of interactivity to the interface.

Conclusions

The datasets developed for this project can be used to train and evaluate LLMs that map review descriptions to Boolean search queries. The models cannot replace thoughtful search query design but may be useful in providing suggestions for key words and the framework for the query.
Pre-transplantation levels of lysine (K)-specific methyltransferase 2A (KMT2A) partial tandem duplications can predict relapse of acute myeloid leukemia patients following haploidentical donor hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Deng Dao-Xing , Ma Xiao-Hang , Wu Ze-Hua , Zhang Xiao-Hui , Xu Lan-Ping , Wang Yu , Yan Chen-Hua , Chen Huan , Chen Yu-Hong , Han Wei , Wang Feng-Rong , Wang Jing-Zhi , Huang Xiao-Jun , Zhao Xiao-Su , Mo Xiao-Dong
Published: September 2024

We aimed to identify dynamic changes of lysine (K)-specific methyltransferase 2A partial tandem duplications (KMT2A-PTD) before and after haploidentical donor hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HID HSCT) and explore the prognostic value of pre-transplantation levels of KMT2A-PTD in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) receiving HID HSCT. Consecutive 64 AML patients with KMT2A-PTD positivity at diagnosis receiving HID HSCT were included in this study. Patients with KMT2A-PTD ≥1% before HSCT had a slower decrease of KMT2A-PTD after HID HSCT. Patients with KMT2A-PTD ≥1% before HID HSCT had a higher cumulative incidence of relapse (36.4%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 6.3%–66.5%) at 2 years after HSCT than those with KMT2A-PTD <1% (7.5%, 95% CI: 0.3%–14.7%, P = .010). In multivariable analysis, KMT2A-PTD ≥1% before HID HSCT was the only independent risk factor for relapse (hazard ratio [HR]: 4.90; 95% CI: 1.22–19.59; P = .025). Thus, pre-transplantation levels of KMT2A-PTD could predict relapse in AML patients following HID HSCT.
Recent advances in the diagnosis of rectal cancer and evaluation of clinical treatment efficacy using magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Xu Aili , Xu Weize , He Bosheng
Published: September 2024

Accurate preoperative tumor staging is essential for precise treatment of rectal cancer, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the preferred method. In addition to accurately determining tumor (T) and stages node (N), MRI can also be used to evaluate factors related to the prognosis of rectal cancer, such as depth of tumor invasion into the muscular layer, extramural vascular invasion of the tumor, and distance to the circumferential resection margin. MRI is also an important method for evaluating tumor regression after neoadjuvant therapy, and quantitative biomarkers of functional MRI can objectively reflect treatment efficacy. Moreover, MRI can predict response after neoadjuvant therapy, local recurrence rate, and disease-free survival before treatment. The present article reviews recent advances in the preoperative diagnosis and staging of rectal cancer, reassessment after neoadjuvant therapy, and evaluation of clinical treatment efficacy using MRI.
Science and practice of nursing: The impact of technology
Authors: Olorunfemi Olaolorunpo , Akinyemi Tejumade Adebusola
Published: September 2024

The impact of technology on nursing education and practice has been huge. In recent years, technology has played a transformative role in various fields, including nursing. The integration of technology into nursing education and practice has brought about significant advancements, revolutionizing the way nurses are trained and how they provide care. This study aims to explore the profound impact of technology on nursing education and practice, highlighting key areas of development. This study was discussed based on previous studies/literatures, survey, empirical evidence and theoretical framework on the subject topic. This study shows that with the integration of technology, nurses now have access to a vast amount of information and resources at their fingertips. Additionally, technology has made communication between healthcare professionals more efficient, enabling better collaboration and coordination in patient care. In terms of practice, technology has streamlined processes such as patient documentation, medication management, and data analysis, leading to improved accuracy and efficiency. In Conclusion, Technology has greatly improved nursing education and practice, allowing nurses to provide high-quality care while remaining at the forefront of healthcare advancements. It has improved the efficiency and quality of care, making it essential for nursing professionals to adapt to these changes. Also, technology has enhanced nursing education and practice, making it more effective and convenient. Nursing schools should incorporate technology into their curriculum, promote online learning, train their faculty, and stay updated with advancements in healthcare technology.
A Case of Fulminant Serratia marcescens Panophthalmitis After Penetrating Keratoplasty
Authors: Sharma Meghan , Bundogji Nour , Azar Nadim S. , Lin Amy , Nakatsuka Austin S.
Published: September 2024

Purpose:

To report the first case of fulminant Serratia marcescens panophthalmitis after penetrating keratoplasty (PK).

Methods:

This is a report of a patient who developed fulminant panophthalmitis shortly after undergoing PK with anterior chamber intraocular lens placement. Slit-lamp examination, B-scan ultrasound (B scan), and orbital computed tomography of the left eye (OS) were performed to further evaluate the patient. Tissue culture and histopathologic examination of the corneal specimen were completed to confirm the diagnosis.

Results:

A 78-year-old pseudophakic woman presented with 2 days of increasing pain, swelling, and purulent discharge after uneventful PK and secondary anterior chamber intraocular lens placement OS. Examination was notable for light perception without projection, elevated intraocular pressure of 48 mmHg, and a perforated corneal ulcer. B scan demonstrated diffuse vitreous opacities and membranes. Orbital computed tomography demonstrated proptosis and high-attenuation material within the left globe. Canthotomy, vitreous sampling, and antibiotic injections were performed. Corneal tissue cultures grew S. marcescens. Therapeutic PK was performed, but after rapid decompensation, the eye was eviscerated.

Conclusions:

This is the only reported case of fulminant S. marcescens panophthalmitis after PK. S. marcescens panophthalmitis is an aggressive and rapidly progressive infection with poor visual outcomes despite appropriate intravitreal and systemic antibiotic therapy.
Outpatient Management of Fever and Neutropenia in Low-risk Children with Solid Tumors: A Quality Improvement Initiative
Authors: Bourgeois Wallace , Paolino Jonathan , Garland Riley , Campbell Kevin , Alvarez-Calderon Francesca , Frazier A. Lindsay , O’Neill Allison F. , Ilowite Maya , Wong Chris I.
Published: September 2024

Background:

Management of febrile neutropenia in pediatric oncology usually requires inpatient parenteral antibiotics after initial evaluation, but some patients at lower risk of sepsis could be safely managed outpatient. We describe a quality improvement project to increase outpatient management of fever and neutropenia.

Methods:

We designed a standardized algorithm for children with a solid tumor diagnosis and low risk for bacteremia. The aim was to achieve outpatient management for at least 80% of eligible patients within 20 months of project initiation. We used plan-do-study-act cycles to improve algorithm compliance, including optimizing medical record decision support, developing targeted educational materials and outreach, and restructuring outpatient processes to allow for close follow-up. We surveyed patients (age ≥12 y) and parents/caregivers to assess the impact of outpatient management.

Results:

The initiative led to 71% (n = 34) of eligible patients being managed as outpatients. Six percent (n = 2) of patients developed bacteremia, resulting in hospital admission. Fifteen of 26 parents/caregivers and five of 11 patients approached completed the survey. For the preferred setting of febrile neutropenia management, 83% of patients preferred to be home versus 40% of parents/caregivers. No patient expressed any of the three highest ratings in the question exploring fear regarding outpatient febrile neutropenia management versus 67% of parents/caregivers.

Conclusions:

Some children with a solid tumor diagnosis at low risk for bacteremia are safely managed for febrile neutropenia as outpatients. Targeted efforts to engage parents/caregivers early in this practice change are necessary for success.
Exploring fluctuating asymmetry in two recovering populations of the Eurasian otter
Authors: Russo Luca Francesco , Loy Anna , Lanzetti Agnese , Goswami Anjali , Meloro Carlo
Published: September 2024

The Eurasian otter is a wide-ranging semi-aquatic mammal that underwent a significant population decline in the last century, leading to local extinctions, reduction and fragmentation of populations. The individuals of populations exposed to both external and internal stress may present the inability to produce a specific developmental outcome, generating developmental ‘noise’ (developmental instability (DI)). Factors contributing to DI include inbreeding depression, population bottlenecks, habitat loss and exposure to pollution. We analysed fluctuating asymmetry (FA) as a proxy of DI in two European otter populations that experienced a major decline in the 1990s. Using three-dimensional geometric morphometrics methods on skull samples of otters from the UK and Sweden, we compared the degree of FA both between populations before, during and after the decline. We found a higher FA in the UK populations compared with Sweden. The level of asymmetry differed significantly over time only in the UK population, where it was higher during the decline phase. FA in the UK populations can be attributed to the specific impact of polychlorinated biphenyls pollution that caused a bottleneck. More generally, our study suggests that habitat loss, pollution and limited gene flow may contribute to DI in declining otter populations, highlighting the need for continued investigation to identify and quantify the specific stressors behind this trend in local populations.
Student experiences of agile-blended learning in emergency online education: insights from a participatory case study
Authors: Wong Jessie Ming Sin
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study examined the implementation of an agile-blended learning (ABL) approach in a master-level early childhood research course and assessed its impact on the learning experience. The purpose was to understand how incorporating ABL concepts affected flexibility, learner autonomy, collaboration and technology mediation, the core principles of ABL.

Design/methodology/approach

A participatory case study methodology was employed to gather insights from 40 students regarding their experiences in the redesigned research course. Data were collected through interviews, observations and document analysis. Qualitative data were thematically analyzed and quantitative data descriptively analyzed.

Findings

ABL fostered flexibility, convenience and learner autonomy. However, students desired richer interpersonal interactions. Technological integration enhanced learning, but social presence was lacking.

Research limitations/implications

The study was limited to a specific master-level early childhood education course and focused on a particular group of students. Further research is needed to examine the generalizability of the findings in different educational contexts and student populations.

Practical implications

Recommendations include ongoing professional development and support systems to optimize ABL realization. Sustaining ABL practices necessitates flexible, empowering institutional structures.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by exploring the potential of ABL in the context of early childhood research education. It provides empirical evidence of the benefits of ABL for increased flexibility, learner autonomy, collaboration and technology mediation. The case study design adds to the originality by offering insights into the practical implementation of ABL in an educational setting.
The impact of customer concentration on the provision of reverse trade credit
Authors: Li Yuhan , Zhang Mengjie
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of customer concentration on the provision of reverse trade credit at the firm level.

Design/methodology/approach

Utilizing unbalanced panel data of Chinese A-share listed firms from 2007 to 2022 as the study sample, this paper employs a fixed-effects model to investigate the association between customer concentration and firms’ reverse trade credit.

Findings

This study finds that firms with higher customer concentration receive less reverse trade credit. Heterogeneity tests reveal a significant amplification of reverse trade credit in high-tech firms but a detrimental impact in large-sized, competitive and high-analyst-following firms. Further studies conclude that firms’ motivations, including bargaining power, financing and transaction guarantee motivations, collectively influence the extent of reverse trade credit acquisition.

Originality/value

To our knowledge, this paper represents the first attempt to conduct a comprehensive investigation of reverse trade credit, specifically through the lens of customer concentration, utilizing firm-level panel data sourced from a singular country.
Practitioner architects who teach design: evaluative judgement and identity
Authors: Datey Aparna
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Practitioner architects who teach design move between their professional practice and teaching, and these different work contexts and cultures shape their identity. When teaching, they need to self-regulate in order to perform independently and develop their teaching. This paper discusses what practitioner architects who teach design say they do in design studios, their conceptions about roles in design studios, how they develop their ability for evaluative judgement and shape their identity.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs case study methodology. It relies on data collected via semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. The audio recordings were transcribed and analysed by identifying persistent words, phrases and ideas that were grouped into themes. Each “idea” is drawn from terms used by participants (e.g. characterising aspects of their practices) and researchers’ interpretations and/or based on existing ideas (e.g. found in the literature). The “theory of practice architectures” is employed as a framework of analysis to investigate what professional architects who teach design say they do in studios and their conceptions of their roles, design teaching and development of teaching expertise.

Findings

Findings show that practitioner architects who teach design employ evaluative judgement to provide constructive feedback to students and monitor the quality of their own projects. They also use evaluative judgement to assess the quality of their own teaching and hence self-regulate their professional development as design educators. Participants do not identify as teachers; rather their identity is firmly rooted in professional practice.

Originality/value

The study focuses on practitioner architects who teach design and explores how they develop their ability for evaluative judgement and shape their identity through the lens of “theory of practice architectures” which offered a comprehensive view of practices as encompassing conceptions, intentions, actions and outcomes.
Globalisation and its impact on performance: an empirical study on selected firms using multimethod approach
Authors: Garg Shamita , Sushil
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Globalisation has benefitted both developed and emerging markets. However, few recent studies have pointed out that globalisation has failed to deliver promising results. This research aims to examine the impact of globalisation on different performance aspects of an emerging market like India.

Design/methodology/approach

We examined the impact of globalisation on different performance aspects of a country at the national, industry and firm levels. We have defined the performance dimensions for country-level analysis as GDP and unemployment. We have defined the performance dimensions as profitability for industry and firm-level analysis. The effects of globalisation on the critical economic performance aspects in the Indian setting are covered in the first part. In the second part, we used the panel regression approach to evaluate the impact of overseas revenue on the employability and profitability of select Indian auto firms. We have chosen the auto industry for industry analysis because of its extensive integration with other production fields. In the third section, we discussed how globalisation has improved the profitability of two Indian car companies.

Findings

This study finds that globalisation has benefitted nearly every aspect of the Indian economy's performance. India has gained from national, industry and firm globalisation.

Originality/value

This study is the first of its kind to examine the impact of globalisation on a country's performance across different levels, including national, industry and firm levels. We have studied the Indian context to develop a theory that globalisation still benefits emerging markets.
A hybrid multi-criteria decision-making approach for hospital sustainability performance assessment
Authors: Gökler Seda Hatice , Boran Semra
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Nowadays, the sustainability of healthcare services is of increasing importance. In particular, hospitals have ceased to be only treatment-oriented institutions and have begun to operate on the principles of sustainability in their environmental, economic and social dimensions. In this context, a comprehensive method is required to evaluate and improve the performance of hospitals.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, it is recommended to combine D-DEMATEL (D number theory and decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory methods) and objectives matrix (OMAX) methods, which are two important methods in determining hospital performance. D-DEMATEL is a technique used to analyze complex relationships and interactions that reduces subjective judgments because it is based on the opinions of many decision-makers and can be applied even in cases of incomplete information. OMAX, on the other hand, provides a comprehensive framework for measuring performance and allows different performance indicators to be evaluated together.

Findings

The novel performance assessment model is applied to a hospital in real life. Its performance value, according to 36 determined performance indicators, is calculated at 56.91%. The indicators of the hospital that need improvement are defined by the traffic light system method. The performance indicator importance ranking of D-DEMATEL is compared to the ranking obtained by the fuzzy DEMATEL method.

Originality/value

Important indicators to be used in later sustainable hospital performance evaluation studies were determined. Also, an integrated D-DEMATEL and OMAX method for evaluating sustainable hospital performance is presented.
From inclusion to expression: Harnessing employee voice through inclusive leadership
Authors: Kaur Itinpreet , Jaiswal Akanksha
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impact of inclusive leadership on employee voice behavior. We also examine the mediating role of perceived inclusion in this research.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 403 employees working in Information Technology (IT) companies located in the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR), one of the major hubs of IT companies in India. Structural Equation Modeling was conducted to test the study’s hypotheses.

Findings

Study results showed that inclusive leadership positively affects employee voice behavior. Further, we found that perceived inclusion mediates the relationship between inclusive leadership and employee voice behavior.

Originality/value

Invoking Brewer’s Optimal Distinctiveness Theory, this study is the first study to examine the role of perceived inclusion as a key mediator in the relationship between inclusive leadership and employee voice behavior. The study not only contributes theoretically to extant literature but also practically by providing insights in a three-fold manner i.e., implications for leaders, managers, and employees. Practical implications highlight the critical role of perceived inclusion in translating the impact of inclusive leadership effectively on employee voice behaviors.
Recruiting ahead of the curve: a case of EduGorilla
Authors: Tiwari Neha , Vishwakarma Suchita , Sharma Sheetal , Vallabh Priyanka
Published: September 2024

Learning outcomes

At the end of this case discussion, the students should be able to analyze the challenges of Strategic Talent Management in the expansion phase of a tech startup; analyze the strategic elements of “Recruiting ahead of the curve”; interpret the application of different employment nodes in creating a differentiated human resource architecture, particularly in the context of an ed-tech startup; recommend Talent Management interventions for Edtech startups.

Case overview/synopsis

The protagonist in the case Mr. Rohit Manglik started his EdTech startup EduGorilla in year 2020 in the state of Uttar Pradesh in India. His passion for transforming test preparation assistance for competitive examinations coupled with innovative AI and ML-driven testing portals has led to tremendous growth. He has received several rounds of funding, and the investor community is now expecting robust growth and returns. Manglik is now expanding in other states and has already started expanding in the Middle East to attain his ambitious growth targets. His current organization design, structure and talent management approach have worked so far, and he has managed to retain a productive workforce. To cater to its fast-growing client, base the company followed a novice hiring strategy where Manglik decided to overstaff his recruitment team to overcome the challenge of manpower deficit. He has been on a hiring spree primarily driven by anticipated projections. The operations team was hired primarily from the Tier II cities of Uttar Pradesh, which allowed him to balance cost and demand effectively. Manglik planned to expand into Tier-1 cities in India & Middle Eastern countries, but he wondered if his over-hiring approach to the recruitment team a tactic or a long-term strategy. The case will explore the talent management issues in the expansion phase of startups, particularly in the context of emerging markets. Will talent management and HR strategies have to be adapted in the context of different economies of emerging markets? The case explores the talent management strategies of an Edtech startup that is growing tremendously in an emerging market context. Hence, the case will augment the understanding of talent management approaches in a startup.

Complexity academic level

Postgraduate business management students enrolled in SHRM & Talent Management courses. Prior knowledge of the basic concepts of human resources is required for analyzing the case. The case can also be used in Management Development Programs for senior HR professionals and HR consultants.

Supplementary material

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 6: Human Resource Management.
Long-run impacts of athletic conference membership changes on athletic department revenues
Authors: Brook Stacey
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the long-run athletic department revenue impacts of these athletic conference membership changes by university administrators.

Design/methodology/approach

University administrator’s decision to change athletic conference is estimated as a panel with conference fixed effects and robust standard errors. An advantage of using panel data is that it allows one to control for variables that are not observable.

Findings

I find that entry increases revenues and exit decreases revenues. Schools that changed from one Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) conference to another did not see long run increases in media revenues, while universities moving to another FBS conference after the demise of the WAC saw increases in revenues. Finally, changing athletic conference did not statistically impact subsidies during this time period.

Originality/value

This study addresses the long-run financial impacts of changing athletic conferences on athletic department revenues.
Identification of alarm pheromone components of the southern giant Asian hornet, Vespa soror, a major pest of honey bees
Authors: Dong Shihao , Sun Aili , Lin Tao , Li Jianjun , Gu Gaoying , Nieh James C. , Tan Ken
Published: September 2024

The rise of biological invasions threatens biodiversity and food security, with the vespid family, including Vespa soror, being of particular concern. Our study focused on the alarm pheromone components of V. soror. By using gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) chemical analyses, electroantennograms, and field bioassays, we identified 5 compounds—2‐pentanol, 3‐methyl‐1‐butanol, 2‐heptanol, 2‐nonanol (2‐N), and isopentyl acetate (IPA)—in hornet sting venom that elicited defensive behavior from hornets. IPA and 2‐N also serve as alarm pheromone components in multiple honey bee species that are important prey for V. soror. This shared chemical signaling may allow cross‐detection by each species on the other's alarm cues. While it should be advantageous for bees to detect V. soror alarm pheromone, the benefits to V. soror of using IPA and 2‐N are unclear. V. soror may manipulate bee behavior, potentially distracting defenders, because they mark victim bee colonies by rubbing their abdomens, which contain their sting glands, at bee hive entrances. Our findings pose new evolutionary questions about the role of manipulation in the arms races.
Recent advances in pathogenesis, diagnosis, and therapeutic approaches for digestive system involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Zhou Liang , Cai Shao Zhe , Dong Ling Li
Published: September 2024

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by the presence of large amounts of autoantibodies and immune complex formation. Because of their atypical clinical symptoms, SLE patients with digestive system involvement may not be recognized or treated precisely and extensively. Clinicians should pay close attention to SLE with digestive system involvement, as these conditions can easily worsen the condition and possibly endanger the patient's life. In this review we summarized the pathogenesis, pathological characteristics, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and therapies for digestive system involvement in SLE.
Exploring CD26−/lo subpopulations of lymphocytes in asthma phenotype and severity: A novel CD4+ T cell subset expressing archetypical granulocyte proteins
Authors: Vázquez‐Mera Sara , Martelo‐Vidal Laura , Miguéns‐Suárez Pablo , Bravo Susana Belén , Saavedra‐Nieves Paula , Arias Pilar , Ferreiro‐Posse Antía , Vázquez‐Lago Juan , Salgado Francisco Javier , González‐Barcala Francisco Javier , Nieto‐Fontarigo Juan José
Published: September 2024

Background

Asthma pathology may induce changes in naïve/memory lymphocyte proportions assessable through the evaluation of surface CD26 (dipeptidyl peptidase 4/DPP4) levels. Our aim was to investigate the association of asthma phenotype/severity with the relative frequency of CD26−/lo, CD26int and CD26hi subsets within different lymphocyte populations.

Methods

The proportion of CD26−/lo, CD26int and CD26hi subsets within CD4+ effector T cells (Teff), total CD4− lymphocytes, γδ‐T cells, NK cells and NKT cells was measured in peripheral blood samples from healthy (N = 30) and asthma (N = 119) donors with different phenotypes/severities by flow cytometry. We performed K‐means clustering analysis and further characterised the CD4+CD26−/lo Teff cell subset by LC–MS/MS and immunofluorescence.

Results

Cluster analysis including clinical and flow cytometry data resulted in four groups, two of them with opposite inflammatory profiles (neutrophilic vs. eosinophilic). Neutrophilic asthma presented reduced CD4−CD26hi cells, which negatively correlated with systemic inflammation. Eosinophilic asthma displayed a general expansion of CD26−/lo subsets. Specifically, CD4+CD26−/lo Teff expansion was confirmed in asthma, especially in atopic patients. Proteomic characterisation of this subset with a TEM/TEMRA phenotype revealed upregulated levels of innate (e.g. MPO and RNASE2) and cytoskeleton/extracellular matrix (e.g. MMP9 and ACTN1) proteins. Immunofluorescence assays confirmed the presence of atypical proteins for CD4+ T cells, and an enrichment in ‘flower‐like’ nuclei and MMP9/RNASE2 levels in CD4+CD26−/lo Teff compared to CD4+ T lymphocytes.

Conclusion

There is an association between CD26 levels in different lymphocyte subsets and asthma phenotype/severity. CD4+CD26−/loTEMRA cells expressing innate proteins specific to eosinophils/neutrophils could be determinant in sustaining long‐term inflammation in adult allergic asthma.
Temporal trajectories of plant functional traits in mediterranean grasslands under different grazing regimes
Authors: Al Hajj Nour , Bricca Alessandro , Caria Maria Carmela , Gascòn Stéphanie , Piga Giovanna , Pulina Antonio , Rivieccio Giovanni , Hassoun George , Bonari Gianmaria , Bagella Simonetta
Published: September 2024

Aims

Mediterranean grasslands are semi‐natural ecosystems that have been affected by land‐use intensification and abandonment during the past decades. Adaptative multi‐paddock grazing regimes, where grazing alternates with long periods of vegetation recovery, have been proposed as a more biodiversity‐friendly management compared with continuous grazing. This study aimed to compare the effect of these two different grazing regimes on a set of plant traits in mediterranean grassland vegetation over time.

Location

Central part of Sardinia (Italy) at 350 m a.s.l. in a permanent grassland system.

Methods

We applied the point quadrat method to quantify the specific contribution of each species along permanent transects in spring and winter from 2018 to 2022. We considered the following plant traits: leaf dry matter content, life forms, flowering start and length of flowering. Overall, we performed 128 surveys and measured traits for 61 species. We ran a linear mixed model to test the effect of season, grazing regimes and years on functional diversity and community‐weighted mean for single traits.

Results

Adaptative multi‐paddock regimes over time increased the leaf dry matter content. However, compared with grazing regimes, seasonality through time had the greatest effect on flowering traits and life forms.

Conclusion

The relatively small variation in the plant traits suggests that the mediterranean grassland was rather stable despite wide variation in grazing regimes, probably linked to their long history of human association. Nonetheless, adaptative multi‐paddock regimes may have higher beneficial effects compared with continuous grazing, favouring more palatable species and improving soil fertility. By contrast, the high variation in the plant traits over time suggests a high vulnerability of the same grassland to climatic changes.
Inter‐regional pharmacokinetics and exposure–response analyses of belimumab in patients with system lupus erythematosus
Authors: Wu Junyi , Zhou Xuan , Dimelow Richard , Marshall Scott
Published: September 2024

Aims

The pharmacokinetics (PK) of belimumab, a human immunoglobulin G1λ (IgG1λ) monoclonal antibody treatment for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), have been well reported. Clinical PK data in healthy participants and patients with SLE from Mainland China suggest lower‐than‐expected belimumab exposure. This study assessed inter‐regional differences in belimumab exposure and efficacy via the exposure–response relationship to inform any dose‐adjustment requirements.

Methods

Data from nine interventional belimumab studies in healthy participants and patients with SLE were used to update two‐compartment PK models with first‐order subcutaneous (SC) absorption, and a logistic regression model characterizing the 52‐week SLE Responder Index (SRI) response in adult and paediatric patients with SLE. Covariates of belimumab PK and efficacy were identified using forward selection (P > .05) and backward elimination (P < .01). The models were evaluated using statistical tests and visual predictive checks.

Results

Baseline fat‐free mass was the most significant covariate affecting belimumab PK; baseline albumin and IgG concentrations were also PK covariates. After adjusting for covariates, Mainland Chinese patients had significantly higher observed belimumab clearance (28%) and central volume of distribution (20%) than other populations, leading to lower‐than‐expected exposures. Despite this, following the same dose, they were expected to have almost identical SRI response rates vs. other populations from the exposure–response analysis.

Conclusions

Belimumab 10 mg kg−1 intravenously every 4 weeks, or 200 mg SC every week, would achieve the maximum treatment effect for North East Asian patients with SLE (including Mainland Chinese) and similar responses to patients from other regions, despite lower reported exposures in Chinese patients.
Macrophage and chondrocyte phenotypes in inflammation
Authors: Pemmari Antti , Moilanen Eeva
Published: September 2024

Inflammation is a complex biological process protecting the body from diverse external threats. Effectively performing this task requires an intricate, well‐regulated interplay of different cells and tissues. Furthermore, several cells participating in inflammation can assume diverse phenotypes.

A classic and relatively well‐studied example of phenotypic diversity in inflammation is macrophage polarization. Based on the TH1/TH2 phenotypes of T helper cells, this scheme has proinflammatory “classical/M1” activation contrasted with the anti‐inflammatory and healing‐promoting “alternative/M2” phenotype. Some authors have extended the concept into an M17 phenotype induced by the classic TH17 cytokine IL‐17. Phenotypic changes in chondrocytes have also been studied especially in the context of osteoarthritis (OA), and there are indications that these cells can also assume polarized phenotypes at least partly analogous to those of TH cells and macrophages. The therapeutic success of biological agents targeting TH1/TH2/TH17 inductor and/or effector cytokines displays the utility of the concept of polarization. The aim of this focused review is to survey the internal and external factors affecting macrophage and chondrocyte phenotypes (such as inflammatory cytokines, widely used medications and natural products) and to explore the possibility of ameliorating pathological states by modulating these phenotypes.
Contribution of hypothalamic orexin (hypocretin) circuits to pathologies of motivation
Authors: Mohammadkhani Aida , Mitchell Caitlin , James Morgan H. , Borgland Stephanie L. , Dayas Christopher V.
Published: September 2024

The orexin (also known as hypocretin) system, consisting of neuropeptides orexin‐A and orexin‐B, was discovered over 25 years ago and was immediately identified as a central regulator of sleep and wakefulness. These peptides interact with two G‐protein coupled receptors, orexin 1 (OX1) and orexin 2 (OX2) receptors which are capable of coupling to all heterotrimeric G‐protein subfamilies, but primarily transduce increases in calcium signalling. Orexin neurons are regulated by a variety of transmitter systems and environmental stimuli that signal reward availability, including food and drug related cues. Orexin neurons are also activated by anticipation, stress, cues predicting motivationally relevant information, including those predicting drugs of abuse, and engage neuromodulatory systems, including dopamine neurons of the ventral tegmental area (VTA) to respond to these signals. As such, orexin neurons have been characterized as motivational activators that coordinate a range of functions, including feeding and arousal, that allow the individual to respond to motivationally relevant information, critical for survival. This review focuses on the role of orexins in appetitive motivation and highlights a role for these neuropeptides in pathologies characterized by inappropriately high levels of motivated arousal (overeating, anxiety and substance use disorders) versus those in which motivation is impaired (depression).
Unveiling the Therapeutic Potential of Paclitaxel Combinations Against Breast Carcinoma and Identification of In Vivo Biomarkers
Authors: Mehmood Aamir , Ali Mohd Sajid , Li Daixi , Kaushik Aman Chandra , Wei Dong‐Qing
Published: September 2024

Breast cancer (BC) is one of the leading causes of high mortality rates in women worldwide. Although advancements have been made in the design of therapeutic strategies and drug discovery, drug resistance remains one of the key challenges. One of the ways to overcome drug resistance is finding potential drug combinations since the efficacy of combined drugs is higher than their individual efficacies if the combination is a synergistic pair. Therefore, the current study uses a BC patient‐derived xenograft (PDX) dataset to evaluate the effects of various cancer drugs on breast cancer in vivo models. The drug effects are further validated by four machine learning models, namely Elastic Net, Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection (LASSO), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Random Forests (RF), as well as exploring the shortlisted drugs in combination with paclitaxel, a baseline drug for enhanced efficacy on tumor volume reduction. Additionally, the study also shortlists the top 50 in vivo biomarkers correlated with the effects of the drugs. The outcomes could be significantly important for the design of an effective anti‐breast cancer therapy.