bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visuospatial and Verbal Memory Differences in Amish Individuals With Alzheimer Disease and Related Dementias
Authors: Prough Michael B. , Zaman Andrew , Caywood Laura J. , Clouse Jason E. , Herington Sharlene D. , Slifer Susan H. , Dorfsman Daniel A. , Adams Larry A. , Laux Reneé A. , Song Yeunjoo E. , Lynn Audrey , Fuzzell Denise , Fuzzell Sarada L. , Miller Sherri D. , Miskimen Kristy , Main Leighanne R. , Osterman Michael D. , Ogrocki Paula , Lerner Alan J. , Vance Jeffery M. , Haines Jonathan L. , Scott William K. , Pericak-Vance Margaret , Cuccaro Michael L.
Published: August 2023

Background:

Verbal and visuospatial memory impairments are common to Alzheimer disease and Related Dementias (ADRD), but the patterns of decline in these domains may reflect genetic and lifestyle influences. The latter may be pertinent to populations such as the Amish who have unique lifestyle experiences.

Methods:

Our data set included 420 Amish and 401 CERAD individuals. Sex-adjusted, age-adjusted, and education-adjusted Z-scores were calculated for the recall portions of the Constructional Praxis Delay (CPD) and Word List Delay (WLD). ANOVAs were then used to examine the main and interaction effects of cohort (Amish, CERAD), cognitive status (case, control), and sex on CPD and WLD Z-scores.

Results:

The Amish performed better on the CPD than the CERAD cohort. In addition, the difference between cases and controls on the CPD and WLD were smaller in the Amish and Amish female cases performed better on the WLD than the CERAD female cases.

Discussion:

The Amish performed better on the CPD task, and ADRD-related declines in CPD and WLD were less severe in the Amish. In addition, Amish females with ADRD may have preferential preservation of WLD. This study provides evidence that the Amish exhibit distinct patterns of verbal and visuospatial memory loss associated with aging and ADRD.
Utility of amyloid PET Imaging in a Memory Clinic
Authors: Pletnikova Alexandra , Okhravi Hamid R. , Jamil Nimra , Kirby Mackenzie , Lyketsos Constantine G. , Oh Esther S.
Published: August 2023

There is greater interest in amyloid biomarker for the diagnosis of Alzheimer disease (AD) with the recent Food and Drug Administration approval of amyloid-targeted therapy. The goal of this study was to assess the clinical utility of amyloid positron emission tomography (PET) in clinically ambiguous cases of cognitive impairment by examining outcomes of patients enrolled in the Imaging Dementia-Evidence of Amyloid Scanning study at 2 academic institutions. Of the 112 patients in the study, 66.1% (n=74) of patients had a positive amyloid PET scan, and 33.96% (n=38) had a negative amyloid PET scan. Lower cognitive test scores were predictive of positive amyloid PET scan (P=0.001). Eighty-two percent (92/112) of the patients were seen for follow-up. Of the 30 patients with negative amyloid PET scan results, 90% had a diagnosis of non-AD etiology after receiving the negative results, suggesting a negative amyloid scan can be used to rule out AD diagnosis.
Mapping the context of sedentary behaviour (MAPS-B) using wearable sensors, indoor positioning systems, and diaries in older adults who are pre-frail and frail: A feasibility longitudinal study
Authors: Rodrigues Isabel B. , Swance Rachel , Tariq Suleman , Kouroukis Alexa , Adachi Jonathan , Bray Steven , Rabinovich Alexander , Ioannidis George , Zheng Rong , Kobsar Dylan , Fang Qiyin , Papaioannou Alexandra
Published: August 2023

Older adults who are frail are likely to be sedentary. Prior interventions to reduce sedentary time in older adults have not been successful as there is little research about the context of sedentary behaviour (posture, location, purpose, social environment). Moreover, there is limited evidence on feasible measures to assess context of sedentary behaviour in older adults. The aim of our study was to determine the feasibility of measuring context of sedentary behaviour in older adults with pre-frailty or frailty using a combination of objective and self-report measures. We defined “feasibility process”using recruitment (20 participants within two-months), retention (85%), and refusal (20%) rates and “feasibility resource” if the measures capture context and can be linked (e.g., sitting-kitchen-eating-alone) and are all participants willing to use the measures. Context was assessed using a wearable sensor to assess posture, a smart home monitoring system for location, and an electronic or hard-copy diary for purpose and social context over three days in winter and spring. We approached 80 potential individuals, and 58 expressed interest; of the 58 individuals, 37 did not enroll due to lack of interest or medical mistrust (64% refusal). We recruited 21 older adults (72±7.3 years, 13 females, 13 frail) within two months and experienced two dropouts due to medical mistrust or worsening health (90% retention). The wearable sensor, indoor positioning system, and electronic diary accurately captured one domain of context, but the hard copy was often not completed with enough detail, so it was challenging to link it to the other devices. Although not all participants were willing to use the wearable sensor, indoor positioning system, or electronic diary, we were able to triage the measures of those who did. Future studies will need to determine the most feasible and valid method to assess the context of sedentary behaviour, especially in diverse older adults.
Conformational changes in saliva proteome guides discovery of cancer aggressiveness related markers
Authors: Granato Daniela C. , Normando Ana Gabriela C. , Carnielli Carolina M. , Trino Luciana D. , Busso-Lopes Ariane F. , Câmara Guilherme A. , Filho Helder V. R. , Domingues Romênia R. , Yokoo Sami , Pauletti Bianca A. , Patroni Fabio M. , Santos-Silva Alan R. , Lopes Márcio A. , Brandão Thaís , Prado-Ribeiro Ana Carolina , de Oliveira Paulo. S. L. , Telles Guilherme P. , Paes Leme Adriana F.
Published: August 2023

Diverse proteomics-based strategies have been applied to saliva to quantitatively identify diagnostic and prognostic targets for oral cancer. Considering that these potential diagnostic and prognostic factors may be regulated by events that do not imply variation in protein abundance levels, we investigated the hypothesis that changes in protein conformation can be associated with diagnosis and prognosis, revealing biological processes and novel targets of clinical relevance. For this, we employed limited proteolysis-mass spectrometry in saliva samples to explore structural alterations, comparing the proteome of healthy control and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) patients, with and without lymph node metastasis. Fifty-one proteins with potential structural rearrangements were associated with clinical patient features. Post-translational modifications, such as glycosylation, disulfide bond, and phosphorylation, were also investigated in our data using different search engines andin silicoanalysis indicating that they might contribute to structural rearrangements of the potential diagnostic and prognostic markers here identified. Altogether, this powerful approach allows for a deep investigation of complex biofluids, such as saliva, advancing the search for targets for oral cancer diagnosis and prognosis.

Graphical Abstract

Oral cancer progression is associated with potential structural rearrangements.
Comparative Analysis of a Large Language Model and Machine Learning Method for Prediction of Hospitalization from Nurse Triage Notes: Implications for Machine Learning-based Resource Management
Authors: Patel Dhavalkumar , Timsina Prem , Gorenstein Larisa , Glicksberg Benjamin S , Raut Ganesh , Cheetirala Satya Narayan , Santana Fabio , Tamegue Jules , Kia Arash , Zimlichman Eyal , Levin Matthew A. , Freeman Robert , Klang Eyal
Published: August 2023

Predicting hospitalization from nurse triage notes has significant implications in health informatics. To this end, we compared the performance of the deep-learning transformer-based model, bio-clinical-BERT, with a bag-of-words logistic regression model incorporating term frequency-inverse document frequency (BOW-LR-tf-idf). A retrospective analysis was conducted using data from 1,391,988 Emergency Department patients at the Mount Sinai Health System spanning 2017-2022. The models were trained on four hospitals’ data and externally validated on a fifth. Bio-clinical-BERT achieved higher AUCs (0.82, 0.84, and 0.85) compared to BOW-LR-tf-idf (0.81, 0.83, and 0.84) across training sets of 10,000, 100,000, and ∼1,000,000 patients respectively. Notably, both models proved effective at utilizing triage notes for prediction, despite the modest performance gap. Importantly, our findings suggest that simpler machine learning models like BOW-LR-tf-idf could serve adequately in resource-limited settings. Given the potential implications for patient care and hospital resource management, further exploration of alternative models and techniques is warranted to enhance predictive performance in this critical domain.
Inflammation causes insulin resistance via interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3)-mediated reduction in FAHFA levels
Authors: Yan Shuai , Santoro Anna , Niphakis Micah J. , Pinto Antonio M. , Jacobs Christopher L. , Ahmad Rasheed , Suciu Radu M. , Fonslow Bryan R. , Herbst-Graham Rachel B. , Ngo Nhi , Henry Cassandra L. , Herbst Dylan M. , Saghatelian Alan , Kahn Barbara B. , Rosen Evan D.
Published: August 2023

Obesity-induced inflammation causes metabolic dysfunction, but the mechanisms remain elusive. Here we show that the innate immune transcription factor interferon regulatory factor (IRF3) adversely affects glucose homeostasis through induction of the endogenous FAHFA hydrolase androgen induced gene 1 (AIG1) in adipocytes. Adipocyte-specific knockout of IRF3 protects mice against high-fat diet-induced insulin resistance, whereas overexpression of IRF3 or AIG1 in adipocytes promotes insulin resistance on a high-fat diet. Furthermore, pharmacological inhibition of AIG1 reversed obesity-induced insulin resistance and restored glucose homeostasis in the setting of adipocyte IRF3 overexpression. We, therefore, identify the adipocyte IRF3/AIG1 axis as a crucial link between obesity-induced inflammation and insulin resistance and suggest an approach for limiting the metabolic dysfunction accompanying obesity.
ULK1-regulated AMP sensing by AMPK and its application for the treatment of chronic kidney disease
Authors: Yanagi Tomoki , Kikuchi Hiroaki , Takeuchi Koh , Susa Koichiro , Mori Takayasu , Takahashi Naohiro , Suzuki Takefumi , Nakano Yuta , Fujiki Tamami , Hara Yu , Suzuki Soichiro , Mori Yutaro , Ando Fumiaki , Mandai Shintaro , Honda Shinya , Torii Satoru , Shimizu Shigeomi , Rai Tatemitsu , Uchida Shinichi , Sohara Eisei
Published: August 2023

AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is a central kinase involved in energy homeostasis. Increased intracellular adenosine monophosphate (AMP) levels result in AMPK activation through the binding of AMP to the γ-subunit of AMPK. Recently, we reported that AMP-induced AMPK activation is impaired in the kidneys in chronic kidney disease (CKD) despite an increase in the AMP/ATP ratio. However, the mechanisms by which AMP sensing is disrupted in CKD are unclear. In this study, we identified mechanisms of energy homeostasis in which Unc-51-like kinase 1 (ULK1)-dependent phosphorylation of AMPKγ1 at Ser260/Thr262 promotes AMP sensitivity of AMPK. AMPK activation by AMP was impaired inUlk1−/−mice despite an increased AMP/ATP ratio. We also demonstrated that MK8722, an allosteric AMPK activator, activates AMPK in the kidneys of a CKD mouse model via a pathway that is independent of AMP sensing. MK8722 treatment significantly attenuates the deterioration of renal function in CKD and is a potential therapeutic option in CKD therapeutics.
Unraveling the Interplay of Temperature Adaptation, Lipidomics, and Environmental Factors inAcinetobacter baumanniiClinical Strains
Authors: Dessenne Clara , Ménart Benoît , Acket Sébastien , Dewulf Gisèle , Guerardel Yann , Vidal Olivier , Rossez Yannick
Published: August 2023

Acinetobacter baumanniihas gained prominence due to its heightened antibiotic resistance and adaptability within healthcare settings. Unlike otherAcinetobacterspecies,A. baumanniipredominantly thrives within healthcare environments, where its persistence is underscored by physiological adaptations, including homeoviscous adaptation that modifies glycerophospholipids (GPL) to enhance membrane flexibility. The bacterium’s substantial genetic diversity highlights the paramount importance of prudent strain selection for research involving drug resistance and virulence. This study investigates the lipid composition of six clinicalA. baumanniistrains, incorporating the highly virulent model strain AB5075 with multiple antibiotic resistances. Our objective is to scrutinize the adaptations of glycerophospholipids (GPL) and glycerolipids (GL) within these isolated strains, each characterized by unique antibiotic resistance profiles, under variable temperature conditions mimicking environmental and physiological scenarios. The strains’ differential performance in motilities and biofilm formation across varying temperatures reveals intriguing patterns. Notably, the study uncovers a consistent elevation in palmitoleic acid (C16:1) content in five of the six strains at 18°C. Utilizing LC-HRMS2analysis, we elucidate shifts in GPL and GL compositions as temperatures oscillate between 18°C and 37°C for all strains. Exploration of lipid subspecies further exposes disparities in PE and PG lipids containing C16:1 and oleic acid (C18:1). This investigation not only provides insights into the physiological attributes and survival strategies ofA. baumanniibut also deepens our comprehension of its adaptive responses to temperature changes. By unraveling the dynamics of lipid composition and fatty acid profiles, this study enriches our understanding of the bacterium’s ecological fitness and behavior in diverse environments.

IMPORTANCE

Acinetobacter baumannii, a bacterium known for its resistance to antibiotics, is a concern in healthcare settings. This study focused on understanding how this bacterium adapts to different temperatures and how its lipid composition changes. Lipids are like the building blocks of its cell membranes. By studying these changes, scientists can gain insights into how the bacterium survives and behaves in various environments. This knowledge helps us better understand its ability to cause infections and resist treatments. The study’s findings contribute to our broader understanding of howAcinetobacter baumanniifunctions, which is important for developing strategies to combat its impact on patient health.
Structures of co-transcriptional RNA capping enzymes on paused transcription complex
Authors: Li Yan , Wang Qianmin , Xu Yanhui , Li Ze
Published: August 2023

Nascent pre-mRNA undergoes 5′ end capping as the first step of processing. Early evidences demonstrated the guanosine addition and 2′-O-ribose methylation spatiotemporally correlated with transcription machinery at the early stage of transcription. Here, we determined cryo-EM structures of PEC (paused elongation complex)-RNGTT (RNA guanylyltransferase and 5′ phosphatase) and PEC-RNGTT-CMTR1 (cap-specific mRNA (nucleoside-2′-O-)-methyltransferase). The structures show that RNGTT docks to the root of Pol II stalk through its OB fold. Within RNGTT, the OB fold binds N-terminal of triphosphatase domain and facilitates positioning its catalytic cavity facing towards the RNA exit tunnel. RNGTT dephosphorylates and guanylates PEC-bound RNAs of 17nt, 19nt, 20nt, but not 22nt, in length. CMTR1 arrayed with RNGTT on the Pol II surface through distinct interfaces. Our structures unravel that capping enzymes RNGTT and CMTR1 directly docks to paused elongation complex, and shed light on how pre-mRNA capping couples with Pol II at the specific transcription stage.
Tracking Cell Layer Contribution During Repair of the Tympanic Membrane
Authors: Dinwoodie Olivia M. , Tucker Abigail S. , Fons-Romero Juan
Published: August 2023

The tympanic membrane (or ear drum) is found at the interface between the middle ear and the external ear. The membrane is composed of three layers of different embryonic origin: an outer ectodermally-derived layer, a middle neural crest-derived fibroblast layer with contribution from the mesoderm-derived vasculature, and an inner endodermally-derived mucosal layer. These layers form a thin sandwich which is often perforated as a consequence of trauma, pressure changes, or middle ear inflammation. Usually, the tympanic membrane heals with minimal scarring, but in 6% of cases the perforation fails to heal leading to hearing loss, tinnitus and pain requiring surgery. How cells bridge the gap to close the perforation is an interesting question, as this needs to happen in the absence of an initial scaffold. Here we assess the contribution, timing, and interaction of the different layers of the membrane during repair in the mouse using markers and reporter mouse lines. We show that the ectodermal layer retracts after perforation, before proliferating away from the wound edge, with Keratin 5 basal cells migrating over the hole to bridge the gap. The mesenchymal and mucosal layers then use this scaffold to complete the repair, in tandem with changes in the vasculature. Finally, differentiation of the epithelium leads to formation of a scab that falls off. Our results reveal the dynamics and interconnections between the embryonic germ layers during repair and highlight how defects in healing may occur. Unearthing the complexities of TM healing is important as chronic TMP is a common clinical issue with limited treatment options.
Berberine reduce inflammation in RA rats through MCP1/CCR2 pathway
Authors: Ling Wang , Can Yu , Meng Ying Li , Man Xu , Hu Hui
Published: August 2023

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by persistent synovitis and systemic inflammation, leading to joint damage and functional disability. Current treatment modalities, although effective, may pose significant side effects. In this study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory properties of berberine, a natural isoquinoline alkaloid, and its potential role in ameliorating RA-associated inflammation in rats through modulation of the monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP1)/chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2) pathway. A collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rat model was employed to mimic RA pathophysiology. Rats were treated with berberine or RS504393 for 30 days. Joint swelling, arthritis score, histopathology used to evaluate disease progression and the extent of inflammation. Immunohistochemistry and WB were used to detect the mechanism of action of berberine. Our results demonstrated that berberine treatment significantly reduced joint swelling, and inflammatory factors in CIA rats. Furthermore, berberine downregulated MCP1 and CCR2 expression, implicating the involvement of the MCP1/CCR2 signaling pathway in attenuating RA-associated inflammation. Taken together, our findings suggest that berberine may represent a promising therapeutic candidate for the management of RA and highlight the potential of targeting the MCP1/CCR2 pathway to mitigate inflammation in autoimmune diseases.
MARCH family E3 ubiquitin ligases selectively target and degrade cadherin family proteins
Authors: Seo Tadahiko , Lowery Anthony M. , Xu Haifang , Giang William , Troyanovsky Sergey M. , Vincent Peter A. , Kowalczyk Andrew P.
Published: August 2023

Cadherin family proteins play a central role in epithelial and endothelial cell-cell adhesion. The dynamic regulation of cell adhesion is achieved in part through endocytic membrane trafficking pathways that modulate cadherin cell surface levels. Here, we define the role for various MARCH family ubiquitin ligases in the regulation of cadherin degradation. We find that MARCH2 selectively downregulates VE-cadherin, resulting in loss of adherens junction proteins at cell borders and a loss of endothelial barrier function. Interestingly, N-cadherin is refractory to MARCH ligase expression, demonstrating that different classical cadherin family proteins are differentially regulated by MARCH family ligases. Using chimeric cadherins, we find that the specificity of different MARCH family ligases for different cadherins is conferred by the cadherin transmembrane domain. Further, juxta-membrane lysine residues are required for cadherin degradation by MARCH proteins. These findings expand our understanding of cadherin regulation and highlight a new role for mammalian MARCH family ubiquitin ligases in differentially regulating cadherin turnover.
Uranium-bearing dust induces differentiation and expansion of enteroendocrine cells in human colonoids
Authors: Atanga Roger , Appell Lidia L. , Lauer Fredine T. , Brearley Adrian , Campen Matthew J. , Castillo Eliseo F. , In Julie G.
Published: August 2023

Chronic exposure to environmental toxins and heavy metals has been associated with intestinal inflammation, increased susceptibility to pathogen-induced diseases, and higher incidences of colorectal cancer, all of which have been steadily increasing in prevalence for the past 40 years. The negative effects of heavy metals on barrier permeability and inhibition of intestinal epithelial healing have been described; however, transcriptomic changes within the intestinal epithelial cells and impacts on lineage differentiation are largely unknown. Uranium exposure remains an important environmental legacy and physiological health concern, with hundreds of abandoned uranium mines located in the Southwestern United States largely impacting underserved indigenous communities. Herein, using human colonoids, we defined the molecular and cellular changes that occur in response to uranium bearing dust (UBD) exposure. We used single cell RNA sequencing to define the molecular changes that occur to specific identities of colonic epithelial cells. We demonstrate that this environmental toxicant disrupts proliferation and induces hyperplastic differentiation of secretory lineage cells, particularly enteroendocrine cells (EEC). EECs respond to UBD exposure with increased differentiation intode novoEEC sub-types not found in control colonoids. This UBD-induced EEC differentiation does not occur via canonical transcription factorsNEUROG3orNEUROD1.These findings highlight the significance of crypts-based proliferative cells and secretory cell differentiation as major colonic responses to heavy metal-induced injury.
Shear influence on colloidal cluster growth: a SANS and USANS study
Authors: Muzny Chris , de Campo Liliana , Sokolova Anna , Garvey Christopher J. , Rehm Christine , Hanley Howard
Published: August 2023

This study examines the time evolution of silica/water clusters where the formation of a gel network from unitary silica particles is interrupted by a simple Couette shear field. The aim is to enable the general understanding of this simple system by examining the microscopic basis for the changes in viscosity by providing structural inputs from small-angle scattering for a simple theoretical model. The experimental system is an 8.3 nm particle silica solution (Ludox) where the gelation has been initiated by lowering the pH in a Couette cell providing a constant shear rate of 250 s−1. A unified small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) and ultra-small-angle neutron scattering (USANS) procedure is described to measure the scattered intensity in a wavevector range of 3 × 10−4 ≤ q (nm−1) ≤ 3.1 × 10−1, probing structural changes over a broad range of length scales from the nanometre to the micrometre. Scattering data provide a new means of better understanding the behaviour of colloidal clusters when subjected to an external applied shear over a continuous time sequence after gel initiation; a fit of the time-dependent scattered intensity leads to an estimation of the cluster's effective volume fraction and size as a function of time. A reductionist theoretical basis is described to predict the time-dependent viscosity behaviour of the sheared colloidal suspension gel-initiated cluster growth from the volume fraction of the clusters.
Comparative study of conventional and synchrotron X-ray electron densities on molecular crystals
Authors: Vosegaard Emilie S. , Ahlburg Jakob V. , Krause Lennard , Iversen Bo B.
Published: August 2023

Five different electron density datasets obtained from conventional and synchrotron single crystal X-ray diffraction experiments are compared. The general aim of the study is to investigate the quality of data for electron density analysis from current state-of-the-art conventional sources, and to see how the data perform in comparison with high-quality synchrotron data. A molecular crystal of melamine was selected as the test compound due to its ability to form excellent single crystals, the light atom content, and an advantageous suitability factor of 3.6 for electron density modeling. These features make melamine an optimal system for conventional X-ray diffractometers since the inherent advantages of synchrotron sources such as short wavelength and high intensity are less critical in this case. Data were obtained at 100 K from new in-house diffractometers Rigaku Synergy-S (Mo and Ag source, HyPix100 detector) and Stoe Stadivari (Mo source, EIGER2 1M CdTe detector), and an older Oxford Diffraction Supernova (Mo source, Atlas CCD detector). The synchrotron data were obtained at 25 K from BL02B1 beamline at SPring-8 in Japan (λ = 0.2480 Å, Pilatus3 X 1M CdTe detector). The five datasets were compared on general quality parameters such as resolution, 〈I/σ〉, redundancy and R factors, as well as the more model specific fractal dimension plot and residual density maps. Comparison of the extracted electron densities reveals that all datasets can provide reliable multipole models, which overall convey similar chemical information. However, the new laboratory X-ray diffractometers with advanced pixel detector technology clearly measure data with significantly less noise and much higher reliability giving densities of higher quality, compared to the older instrument. The synchrotron data have higher resolution and lower measurement temperature, and they allow for finer details to be modeled (e.g. hydrogen κ parameters).
Perfect precise colorings of plane semiregular tilings
Authors: Loquias Manuel Joseph C. , Santos Rovin B.
Published: August 2023

A coloring of a planar semiregular tiling {\cal T} is an assignment of a unique color to each tile of {\cal T}. If G is the symmetry group of {\cal T}, the coloring is said to be perfect if every element of G induces a permutation on the finite set of colors. If {\cal T} is k-valent, then a coloring of {\cal T} with k colors is said to be precise if no two tiles of {\cal T} sharing the same vertex have the same color. In this work, perfect precise colorings are obtained for some families of k-valent semiregular tilings in the plane, where k ≤ 6.
Re-examining the showrooming phenomenon: the moderating role of consumers' maximizing tendency
Authors: Hsieh Jung-Kuei , Kumar Sushant , Ko Ning-Yu
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Showrooming presents a complex and evolving challenge to retail managers, as it signifies the emergence of new forms of exchange rules. The purpose of this research is to investigate how factors responsible for information search and evaluation affect showrooming and also consider the consumer mindset as a moderator.

Design/methodology/approach

This research undertakes three experimental designs to investigate how the push (i.e. assortment size), pull (i.e. price discount), and mooring (i.e. sunk cost) factors influence consumers' showrooming intention. Specifically, consumers' maximizing tendency plays the role of moderator.

Findings

The results reveal that push, pull, and mooring factors are significantly related to consumers' showrooming intention. Furthermore, the findings show that maximizers have higher showrooming intention than satisficers in the context of the push, pull, and mooring factors.

Originality/value

By integrating the push-pull-mooring framework and the maximizing mindset theory, this research proposes a novel research model and the empirical testing results support six hypotheses. The findings add to the body of knowledge in showrooming behavior by taking consumer mindset into account. The results also provide implications for practitioners to develop their retail strategies.
How and when is boundary-spanning behaviour related to innovative behaviour: role of intrinsic motivation and organisational support
Authors: Zhu Jinqiang , Xin Lu , Li Mengyi
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the underlying boundary conditions under which boundary-spanning behaviour has a positive or negative effect on innovative behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

A multi-wave and multi-source research design was adopted to collect data. Data were analysed using the multilevel structural equation modelling and latent moderated structural equation approach.

Findings

The results showed that boundary-spanning behaviour was significantly and negatively associated with employees' innovative behaviour via ego depletion when employees' intrinsic motivation or organisational support was low. Additionally, boundary-spanning behaviour was significantly and positively associated with employees' innovative behaviour via ego depletion when employees' intrinsic motivation or organisational support was high.

Originality/value

This research suggests that the consequences of boundary-spanning behaviour are conditional, explaining the contrasting conclusions in this regard.
Observation of relationship between housing value and the number of building permits in the United States using time series method
Authors: Zhang Xingrui , Yang Eunhwa
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Housing market is predominantly driven by supply and demand, and the measurement of housing supply plays a crucial role in understanding market dynamics. One such measure is the number of building permits (BPs) issued. Despite the importance of BPs as an economic indicator, direct links have yet to be drawn between BP and housing value index (HVI). The purpose of this paper is to establish links between HVI and BP.

Design/methodology/approach

Trials were conducted using data at the national, state and metropolitan statistical area (MSA) levels. For each trial, the Granger causality test was used first to identify causal relationships between HVI and BP. Subsequently, the vector autoregression model was implemented in an attempt to observe impulse–response relationships and to create a forecast for HVI.

Findings

Bidirectional causal relationships were observed between HVI and BP at the national, state and MSA levels. The number of issued BPs proves to be an indicator for HVI. Impulse response functions indicate that HVI responds negatively to an increase in BP in the short term of 4–7 months but positively to an increase in BP with a lag of 10–12 months.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper is the first in the body of knowledge that establishes the number of issued BPs as an indicator for housing value. The results drawn using impulse–response function are also novel and had not been observed in previous studies.
Interactive effects of armed conflict and climate change on gender vulnerability in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Okoyeuzu Chinwe Regina , Ujunwa Angela Ifeanyi , Ujunwa Augustine , Nkwor Nelson N. , Kalu Ebere Ume , Al-Faryan Mamdouh Abdulaziz Saleh
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is regarded as a region with one of the worst cases of armed conflict and climate risk. This paper examines the interactive effect of armed conflict and climate risk on gender vulnerability in SSA.

Design/methodology/approach

The difference and system generalised method of movement (GMM) were used to examine the relationship between the variables using annualised data of 35 SSA countries from 1998 to 2019.

Findings

The paper found strong evidence that armed conflict and climate change are positive predictors of gender vulnerability. The impact of climate change on gender vulnerability is found to be more direct than indirect.

Practical implications

The direct and indirect positive effect of armed conflict and climate change on gender vulnerability implies that climate change drives gender vulnerability through multiple channels. This underscores the need for a multi-disciplinary policy approach to addressing gender vulnerability problem in SSA.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the climate action debate by highlighting the need for climate action to incorporate gender inclusive policies such as massive investment in infrastructure and safety nets that offer protection to the most vulnerable girls and women affected by armed conflict and climate change. Societies should as a matter of urgency strive to structural barriers that predispose girls and women to biodiversity loss.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-09-2022-0595
Digital twin–based asset inspection and user–technology interactions
Authors: Voordijk Hans , Vahdatikhaki Faridaddin , Hesselink Lars
Published: August 2023

Purpose

With the emergence of digital twins, the construction industry is looking toward improving the inspection and maintenance of all kinds of assets, such as bridges, roads and utilities. The purpose of this paper is to provide insights into how the development of an interactive digital twin creates a variety of interactions between users of this technology and assets to be monitored.

Design/methodology/approach

The development of a digital twin inspection model, focusing on the specific case of a sewage pumping station, is chosen as the subject of a case study. Through the development of this model, this study explores the various user–technology interactions that can be designed in a digital twin context.

Findings

Users interact with digital twins by following virtual instructions in a certain way, which creates a “quasi-other” relationship. A digital twin based on virtual reality (VR) also make users feel as if they are within the created VR of an inspection site, thereby immersing them in the VR environment. The design of a VR-based digital twin, which is determined by decisions made during the development process, shapes the context in which users interact with the technology and assets.

Originality/value

This study shows that a digital twin in construction practice may play different “actant” roles having different types of influences. Analyzing these actant roles and influences in terms of force and visibility adds a new perspective on the interaction between users and digital twins in construction and asset monitoring practice.
The implementation of IFRS9 in Gulf banks: using the GMM and the difference-in-differences with multiple time periods approaches
Authors: Abuaddous Murad
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the impact of the mandatory adoption of (International Financial Reporting Standards [IFRS] 9) on loan provisions, nonperforming loans (NPL) and impairment loan loss in Gulf banks. This study also investigates potential variations in outcomes compared to prior models and explores the use of the Callaway and Sant’Anna (2021) estimator for difference-in-differences (DiD) with multiple time periods.

Design/methodology/approach

The research is based on a sample of 53 Gulf banks covering the period from 2012 to 2020. The study analyzes the changes in loan provisions, impairment loss and NPL following the implementation of IFRS 9. It uses statistical analysis and the DiD method to compare the outcomes between the experimental group (treated by IFRS 9) and the control group (not treated).

Findings

The findings reveal a statistically insignificant increase in loan provisions, impairment loss and NPL after the adoption of IFRS 9. These results align with previous studies and suggest that Gulf banks were proactive in anticipating and mitigating the impact of the new standard. The study also observes a synchronization of provisioning practices across Gulf countries and a certain level of consistency in recognizing loan losses.

Practical implications

The practical implications of this study suggest that Gulf banks have successfully absorbed the impact of IFRS 9 and have implemented collaborative approaches.

Originality/value

The study offers some new sight into IFRS9 outcomes in developing countries and opens the door for implementing a novel DiD estimation in future research studies.
A study of the underground banking system in Sri Lanka – a phenomenon of Boyle’s law
Authors: Sivaguru Dinesh , Tilakasiri Kamal
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to examine the available literature to comprehend what the underground banking system is, for what purposes this method is used and how policymakers should proceed to address this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach involved conducting this study and combining it with a critical analysis of the available literature as well as the available historical data. The sources the study has explored include government documents, public hearings, academic articles, case studies and articles available on the internet.

Findings

The study revealed prevention of illegal proceeds is critical, still regulating one entity, is a phenomenon of Boyle’s law, “squeezing the balloon”. If one end of the balloon is squeezed, making the volume smaller, the pressure inside increases, making the un-squeezed part of the balloon expand out. The real issue is not how criminals transfer their illegal earnings; it is the criminals themselves. Hence, the policy decision on this issue needs to be carefully considered.

Research limitations/implications

Due to the complexity of the operating system of Undiyal, this study had a number of limitations, as do many others. Firstly, there are no records of the Undiyal agents or the volumes of transactions publicly available. However, comprehending the scope of the underground operation that exists in the country is quite difficult.

Practical implications

The study contributes to the academic researchers grasping what type of future research should be focused on in this area according to the study.

Social implications

From the point of view of its practical application, the study seeks to resolve social issues that the middle-class population experiences on a daily basis and that have a huge and adverse impact on GDP.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is an original contribution.
Knowledge production and commercialization from R&D: the pharmaceutical sector
Authors: García-Valderrama Teresa , Sanchez-Ortiz Jaime , Mulero-Mendigorri Eva
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The objective of this work is to demonstrate the relationships between the two main processes of research and development (R&D) activities: the knowledge generation phase (KPP) and the knowledge commercialization, or transfer, phase (KCP), in a sector that is intensive in this type of activity, such as the pharmaceutical sector. In addition, within the framework of the general objective of this work, the authors propose two other objectives: (1) make advances in network efficiency measurement models, and (2) determine the factors associated with efficiency in the KPP and in the KCP in companies of the pharmaceutical sector in Spain.

Design/methodology/approach

A Network Data Envelopment Analysis (NDEA) model (Färe and Grosskopf, 2000) with categorical variables (Lee et al., 2020; Yeh and Chang, 2020) has been applied, and a sensitivity analysis of the obtained results has been performed through a DEA model of categorical variables, in accordance with the work of Banker and Morey (1986), to corroborate the results of the proposed model. The sample is made up of 77 companies in the pharmaceutical sector in Spain.

Findings

The results obtained point to a greater efficiency of pharmaceutical companies in the KPP, rather than in the KCP. Furthermore, the study finds that 1) alliances between companies have been the accelerating factors of efficiency in the KCP (but patents have slowed this down the most); 2) the quality of R&D and the number of R&D personnel are the factors that most affect efficiency in the KPP; and 3) the quality of R&D again, the benefits obtained and the position in the market are the factors that most affect efficiency in the KCP.

Originality/value

The authors have not found studies that show whether the efficiency obtained by R&D-intensive companies in the KPP phase is related to better results in terms of efficiency in the KCP phase. No papers have been found that analyse the role of alliances between R&D-intensive companies and patents, as agents that facilitate efficiency in the KCP phase, covering the gap in the research on both problems. Notwithstanding, this work opens up a research path which is related to the improvement of network efficiency models (since it includes categorical variables) and the assessment of the opinions of those who are responsible for R&D departments; it can be applied to decision-making on the aspects to improve efficiency in R&D-intensive companies.
Corporate social responsibility and employee outcomes: considering employee perspectives on the role of business
Authors: DeGhetto Kaitlyn , Russell Zachary A , McAllister Charn P
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate how employee perspectives on the role of business, specifically capitalist beliefs, affect the corporate social responsibility (CSR)–reputation–employee behavior relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual model was developed, and to test the model empirically, survey data were collected over two phases from 192 working professionals. Data were analyzed in SAS using Hayes’s PROCESS approach.

Findings

Results of this study reveal that the positive employee outcomes (i.e. affective commitment and reduced turnover intentions), resulting from CSR, through perceived employer reputation (i.e. an employee’s perception of how others view their firm), are diminished when employees have strong capitalist beliefs.

Research limitations/implications

Building on the signaling and person–organization fit literatures, this study highlights the theoretical and managerial importance of recognizing employees’ ideological differences as well as the value of considering employee perceptions of reputation. Although many stakeholders value social responsibility, not all do, and a firm’s intended outcomes will vary depending on employees’ beliefs.

Originality/value

This study demonstrates that CSR not only affects institutional-level corporate reputation, as previously studied, but also affects employees’ behaviors through “perceived employer reputation”, or employee beliefs about how other stakeholders perceive the firm. Moreover, this study highlights the importance of understanding employee differences, including ideological differences, prior to engaging in certain types of CSR.
Deaths associated with electric shock injuries in children and adults: A 10‐year retrospective examination in Şanlıurfa, Southeast Turkey (2012–2022)
Authors: Dündar Ahmet Sedat , Altın İsmail , Aksöz Cihan , Sarın Abdullah Benna , Özdemir Bora
Published: August 2023

Electric shock injuries (EIs) have high rates of morbidity and mortality in both children and adults. The aim of this study was to examine autopsy cases resulting from EIs and to compare pediatric and adult groups with respect to sociodemographic data, clinical characteristics, location of the incident, electricity entry–exit wound characteristics, current direction, pathological effects of the electric shocks on the body, and cause of death. A total of 8075 autopsies conducted between 2012 and 2022 were retrospectively examined. Şanliurfa is a city in the southeast of Turkey with the highest birth rate in the country. Of 123 cases of death resulting from EIs in Şanliurfa, 58 (47.2%) were children (age < 18 years). In the majority of children (81%), a low‐voltage injury resulted from a domestic appliance while the children were playing at home in a rural area. In the vast majority of adults, a high‐voltage injury (HVI) resulted from a workplace accident due to working with HVI materials in an area outside the home. The manner of death was accidental in all the electric shock injuries. The electricity entry and exit wounds formed as a result of EIs had similar characteristics in both children and adults, with no significant difference identified. In the province of Şanliurfa, Turkey, which borders Syria and where the main occupation is agricultural activities, there is a need to increase electrical safety precautions within the home, educate parents, and increase electrical safety conditions and worker education in the workplace.
Petrological and Geochemical Constraints on the Origin of Strongly Peraluminous Granitoids from the Triassic Guangtoushan Pluton in South Qinling
Authors: GUAN Qi , CAO Junlin , WANG Rixiang , XIE Peiling , XIA Wenyue , LI Xiaowei
Published: August 2023

As an important part of the early Mesozoic granites in the South Qinling tectonic belt (SQTB), the Guangtoushan pluton provides a material basis for research on the composition of magma sources and the effects of peritectic assemblage entrainment (PAE) on the changes in the granite composition. As shown by the results of LA‐ICP‐MS zircon U‐Pb dating, the Guangtoushan pluton was emplaced during the Late Triassic (214–212 Ma) and was formed in the post‐collision stage between the SQTB and the Yangtze plate. The collected samples had high SiO2 content and low Cr and Ni contents, indicating that the magmas did not undergo significant crust‐mantle mixing during their evolution. The Guangtoushan granitoids were distributed along the trend line of magmatic fractional crystallization in the F–An–Or diagram. This result, combined with the relatively homogeneous Sr‐Nd isotopic composition, implies that the Guangtoushan pluton underwent slight assimilation and contamination. As can be inferred from the comparison between the compositions of the Guangtoushan granitoids and various fluid‐absent experimental melts, the magma sources of the Guangtoushan granitoids contain a variety of materials, such as graywackes, pyroclastic graywackes, and pelites and are not derived from lower crustal mafic rocks. The correlation between the maficity and the major and trace elements further indicates that the strongly peraluminous granitoids from the Guangtoushan pluton was formed by the partial melting of biotite‐bearing crustal rocks and its magmatic evolution was accompanied by the entrainment of clinopyroxenes and accessory minerals.
Using acoustic indices in ecology: Guidance on study design, analyses and interpretation
Authors: Bradfer‐Lawrence Tom , Desjonqueres Camille , Eldridge Alice , Johnston Alison , Metcalf Oliver
Published: August 2023

The rise of passive acoustic monitoring and the rapid growth in large audio datasets is driving the development of analysis methods that allow ecological inferences to be drawn from acoustic data.

Acoustic indices are currently one of the most widely applied tools in ecoacoustics. These numerical summaries of the sound energy contained in digital audio recordings are relatively straightforward and fast to calculate but can be challenging to interpret. Misapplication and misinterpretation have produced conflicting results and led some to question their value.

To encourage better use of acoustic indices, we provide nine points of guidance to support good study design, analysis and interpretation. We offer practical recommendations for the use of acoustic indices in the study of both whole soundscapes and individual taxa and species, and point to emerging trends in ecoacoustic analysis. In particular, we highlight the critical importance of understanding the links between soundscape patterns and acoustic indices.

Acoustic indices can offer insights into the state of organisms, populations, and ecosystems, complementing other ecological research techniques. Judicious selection, appropriate application and thorough interpretation of existing indices is vital to bolster robust developments in ecoacoustics for biodiversity monitoring, conservation and future research.