bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Joint representation of molecular networks from multiple species improves gene classification
Authors: Mancuso Christopher A , Johnson Kayla A , Liu Renming , Krishnan Arjun
Published: May 2023

Network-based machine learning (ML) has the potential for predicting novel genes associated with nearly any health and disease context. However, this approach often uses network information from only the single species under consideration even though networks for most species are noisy and incomplete. While some recent methods have begun addressing this shortcoming by using networks from more than one species, they lack one or more key desirable properties: handling networks from multiple species, incorporating many-to-many orthology information, or generating a network representation that is reusable across different types of and newly-defined prediction tasks. Here, we present GenePlexusZoo, a framework that casts molecular networks from multiple species into a single reusable feature space for network-based ML. We demonstrate that this multi-species network representation improves both gene classification within a single species and knowledge-transfer across species, even in cases where the inter-species correspondence is undetectable based on shared orthologous genes. Thus, GenePlexusZoo enables effectively leveraging the high evolutionary molecular, functional, and phenotypic conservation across species to discover novel genes associated with diverse biological contexts.
Toxic anti-phage defense proteins inhibited by intragenic antitoxin proteins
Authors: Zhong Aoshu , Jiang Xiaofang , Hickman Alison B. , Klier Katherine , Teodoro Gabriella I. C. , Dyda Fred , Laub Michael T. , Storz Gisela
Published: May 2023

Recombination-promoting nuclease (Rpn) proteins are broadly distributed across bacterial phyla, yet their functions remain unclear. Here we report these proteins are new toxin-antitoxin systems, comprised of genes-within-genes, that combat phage infection. We show the small, highly variable RpnC-terminal domains (RpnS), which are translated separately from the full-length proteins (RpnL), directly block the activities of the toxic full-length proteins. The crystal structure of RpnASrevealed a dimerization interface encompassing a helix that can have four amino acid repeats whose number varies widely among strains of the same species. Consistent with strong selection for the variation, we document plasmid-encoded RpnP2LprotectsEscherichia coliagainst certain phages. We propose many more intragenic-encoded proteins that serve regulatory roles remain to be discovered in all organisms.

Significance

Here we document the function of small genes-within-genes, showing they encode antitoxin proteins that block the functions of the toxic DNA endonuclease proteins encoded by the longerrpngenes. Intriguingly, a sequence present in both long and short protein shows extensive variation in the number of four amino acid repeats. Consistent with a strong selection for the variation, we provide evidence that the Rpn proteins represent a phage defense system.
Constitutive and variable patterns of genome-wide DNA methylation in populations from spatial-environmental range extremes of the bumble beeBombus vosnesenskii
Authors: Rahman Sarthok Rasique , Lozier Jeffrey D.
Published: May 2023

Unraveling molecular mechanisms of adaptation to complex environments is crucial to understanding tolerance of abiotic pressures and responses to climatic change. Epigenetic variation is increasingly recognized as a mechanism that can facilitate rapid responses to changing environmental cues. To investigate variation in genetic and epigenetic diversity at spatial and thermal extremes, we use whole genome and methylome sequencing to generate a high-resolution map of DNA methylation in the bumble beeBombus vosnesenskii. We sample two populations representing spatial and environmental range extremes (a warm southern low-elevation site and a cold northern high-elevation site) previously shown to exhibit differences in thermal tolerance and determine positions in the genome that are constitutively and variably methylated across samples. Bisulfite sequencing reveals methylation characteristics similar to other arthropods, with low global CpG methylation but high methylation concentrated in gene bodies and in genome regions with low nucleotide diversity. Differentially methylated sites (n = 2,066) were largely hypomethylated in the northern high-elevation population but not related to local sequence differentiation. The concentration of methylated and differentially methylated sites in exons and putative promoter regions suggests a possible role in gene regulation, and this high-resolution analysis of intraspecific epigenetic variation in wildBombussuggests that the function of methylation in niche adaptation would be worth further investigation.
Temporal variation in introgressed segments’ length statistics sheds light on past admixture pulses
Authors: Di Santo Lionel N. , Quilodran Claudio S. , Currat Mathias
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Hybridization is recognized as an important evolutionary force, but identifying and timing admixture events between divergent lineages remains a major aim of evolutionary biology. While this has traditionally been done using inferential tools on contemporary genomes, the latest advances in paleogenomics have provided a growing wealth of temporally distributed genomic data. Here, we used individual-based simulations to generate chromosome-level genomics data for a two-population system and described temporal neutral introgression patterns under a single- and two-pulse admixture model. We computed three summary statistics aiming to inform the timing and number of admixture pulses between interbreeding entities: lengths of introgressed sequences and their variance within-genomes, as well as genome-wide introgression proportions. The first two statistics can confidently be used to infer inter-lineage hybridization history, peaking at the beginning and shortly after an admixture pulse. Temporal variation in introgression proportions provided more limited insights. We then computed these statistics onHomo sapienspaleogenomes and successfully inferred the hybridization pulse with Neanderthal that occurred approximately 40 to 60 kya. The scarce number of genomes dating from this period prevented more precise inferences, but the accumulation of paleogenomic data opens promising perspectives as our approach only requires a limited number of genomes.
RNA granules: functional compartments or incidental condensates?
Authors: Putnam Andrea , Thomas Laura , Seydoux Geraldine
Published: May 2023

RNA granules are mesoscale assemblies that form in the absence of limiting membranes. RNA granules contain factors for RNA biogenesis and turnover and are often assumed to represent specialized compartments for RNA biochemistry. Recent evidence suggests that RNA granules assemble by phase separation of subsoluble ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complexes that partially demix from the cytoplasm or nucleoplasm. We explore the possibility that some RNA granules are nonessential condensation by-products that arise when RNP complexes exceed their solubility limit as a consequence of cellular activity, stress, or aging. We describe the use of evolutionary and mutational analyses and single-molecule techniques to distinguish functional RNA granules from “incidental condensates.”
FlexPES: a versatile soft X-ray beamline at MAX IV Laboratory
Authors: Preobrajenski Alexei , Generalov Alexander , Öhrwall Gunnar , Tchaplyguine Maxim , Tarawneh Hamed , Appelfeller Stephan , Frampton Eleanor , Walsh Noelle
Published: May 2023

FlexPES is a soft X-ray beamline on the 1.5 GeV storage ring at MAX IV Laboratory, Sweden, providing horizontally polarized radiation in the 40–1500 eV photon energy range and specializing in high-resolution photoelectron spectroscopy, fast X-ray absorption spectroscopy and electron–ion/ion–ion coincidence techniques. The beamline is split into two branches currently serving three endstations, with a possibility of adding a fourth station at a free port. The refocusing optics provides two focal points on each branch, and enables either focused or defocused beam on the sample. The endstation EA01 at branch A (Surface and Materials Science) is dedicated to surface- and materials-science experiments on solid samples at ultra-high vacuum. It is well suited not only to all flavours of photoelectron spectroscopy but also to fast (down to sub-minute) high-resolution X-ray absorption measurements with various detectors. Branch B (Low-Density Matter Science) has the possibility to study gas-phase/liquid samples at elevated pressures. The first endstation of this branch, EB01, is a mobile setup for various ion–ion and electron–ion coincidence techniques. It houses a versatile reaction microscope, which can be used for experiments during single-bunch or multi-bunch delivery. The second endstation, EB02, is based on a rotatable chamber with an electron spectrometer for photoelectron spectroscopy studies on primarily volatile targets, and a number of peripheral setups for sample delivery, such as molecular/cluster beams, metal/semiconductor nanoparticle beams and liquid jets. This station can also be used for non-UHV photoemission studies on solid samples. In this paper, the optical layout and the present performance of the beamline and all its endstations are reported.
Unearthing the relationship between supply chain social capital and firm performance: the role of supply chain responsiveness
Authors: Acquah Ishmael Nanaba , Kumi Caleb Amankwaa , Asamoah David , Agyei-Owusu Benjamin , Agbodza Mavis , Agyabeng-Mensah Yaw
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This paper examines the nexus between supply chain social capital (relational social capital and structural social capital), supply chain responsiveness (operations system responsiveness and supplier network responsiveness) and firm performance. Additionally, the study examines the mediating role of supply chain responsiveness on the relationship between supply chain social capital and firm performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors test their hypotheses on a sample of 120 firms operating in Ghana. The measurement model and hypothesized paths were assessed using partial least squares structural equation modelling.

Findings

The findings revealed that structural social capital had a significant direct effect on firm performance, but relational social capital did not. It was also revealed that both relational and structural social capital have significant effects on operations system responsiveness and supplier network responsiveness. Additionally, operations system responsiveness fully mediated the effect of relational social capital on firm performance and partially mediated the effect of structural social capital on firm performance. Supplier network responsiveness, on the other hand, partially mediated the effect of both relational and structural social capital on firm performance.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the limited literature on supply chain social capital by unearthing the mechanisms through which supply chain social capital enhances firm performance. Specifically, the study demonstrates the intervening role of operations system responsiveness and supplier network responsiveness in the supply chain social capital–firm performance link.
From resources to sustainability: a practice-based view of net zero economy implementation in small and medium business-to-business firms
Authors: Bag Surajit
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This study examines the effect of resources (e.g. tangible resources, human skills and intangible resources) that are utilized as a bundle of standard practices on sustainable net zero economy implementation and their further impact on financial, environmental and social performance among small- and medium-level enterprises in business markets. The moderating effect of big data analytical intelligence is also examined.

Design/methodology/approach

The samples were selected from the paper and chemical manufacturing industries of South Africa. The data analysis was performed using variance-based structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results show that tangible resources, human skills and intangible resources positively influence sustainable net zero economy adoption. However, intangible resources have a more substantial influence on sustainable net zero economy implementation. This shows that adopting a sustainable net zero economy depends more on a bundle of common practices, including sustainability culture, employee training and knowledge management, and managers must create the necessary action plans accordingly. In addition, sustainable net zero economy adoption positively influences financial performance, environmental performance and social performance. However, sustainable net zero economy adoption has a more substantial influence on social performance. Therefore, implementing a net zero economy will be more advantageous to society and to local communities.

Practical implications

To achieve a sustainable net zero economy, managers should recognize the significance of resource management. While managing tangible resources and human skills is crucial, intangible resources, such as culture and organizational learning, require more attention. Additionally, the ability of small- and medium-sized enterprises to explore, store, share and apply knowledge is crucial to achieving net zero. Therefore, managers should make use of Industry 4.0-based digital technologies for effective knowledge management. Moreover, net zero economy adoption can significantly enhance societal performance. Hence, while making budgeting decisions, managers must consider the potential of the firm's resources to improve social performance.

Originality/value

This study is the first to investigate the impact of human skills and tangible and intangible resources on the adoption of a sustainable net zero economy by companies, using empirical evidence. The research expands on the concept of the practice-based view (PBV) in the implementation of sustainable net zero economies by small- and medium-sized business-to-business enterprises.
The right time for a big bath: asset impairment recognition in earnings management
Authors: Mielcarz Paweł , Osiichuk Dmytro , Tselinko Inna
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The article investigates the patterns of asset impairment recognition in search of signs of “big bath” earnings management practices across an internationally diversified sample of public companies. It also elucidates the incentives that may underlie such practices and explores possible safeguards embedded in the existing corporate governance mechanisms.

Design/methodology/approach

The article applied static panel and binary logit models to an international firm-level panel dataset of 1045 public companies observed between 2003 and 2018.

Findings

Our empirical results suggest that recognition of asset impairment has no determinate impact on earnings volatility. Investigating the possibility of “big bath” earnings management practices, the authors found no impact of asset impairment recognition on total senior executive compensation in firms, which pay performance-based remuneration. The quality of corporate governance has appeared to impact the firms’ intertemporal proclivity to recognize asset impairment with those having the more entrenched and management-controlled boards being more likely to time impairment recognition by delaying it during exceptionally good and exceptionally bad years. While generally unlikely, recognition of asset impairment in a period with a recorded negative operating performance is found to be closely associated with key executive departures.

Originality/value

The article corroborates the salient role of corporate governance mechanisms in shaping the intertemporal patterns of asset impairment recognition. The possible remedies to the phenomenon should be derived therefrom.
Machine learning approaches for prediction of ovarian cancer driver genes from mutational and network analysis
Authors: Wadapurkar Rucha , Bapat Sanket , Mahajan Rupali , Vyas Renu
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Ovarian cancer (OC) is the most common type of gynecologic cancer in the world with a high rate of mortality. Due to manifestation of generic symptoms and absence of specific biomarkers, OC is usually diagnosed at a late stage. Machine learning models can be employed to predict driver genes implicated in causative mutations.

Design/methodology/approach

In the present study, a comprehensive next generation sequencing (NGS) analysis of whole exome sequences of 47 OC patients was carried out to identify clinically significant mutations. Nine functional features of 708 mutations identified were input into a machine learning classification model by employing the eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) classifier method for prediction of OC driver genes.

Findings

The XGBoost classifier model yielded a classification accuracy of 0.946, which was superior to that obtained by other classifiers such as decision tree, Naive Bayes, random forest and support vector machine. Further, an interaction network was generated to identify and establish correlations with cancer-associated pathways and gene ontology data.

Originality/value

The final results revealed 12 putative candidate cancer driver genes, namely LAMA3, LAMC3, COL6A1, COL5A1, COL2A1, UGT1A1, BDNF, ANK1, WNT10A, FZD4, PLEKHG5 and CYP2C9, that may have implications in clinical diagnosis.
Attraction and compromise effects under social exclusion
Authors: Kim Jungkeun , Lee Jaehoon , Kim Jae-Eun
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Integrating conceptual perspectives from social exclusion, thinking style and context effects, this study aims to examine how different types of social exclusion influence attraction and compromise effects.

Design/methodology/approach

Eight studies were conducted. To establish the causal relationship between social exclusion types and context effects, this study uses experimental designs in all studies.

Findings

The attraction effect is stronger when consumers feel rejected than ignored, whereas the compromise effect is stronger when they feel ignored than rejected. Consumers who feel rejected increase their propensity to think holistically, which in turn leads to their choice preferences for asymmetrically dominant options. Conversely, those who feel ignored increase their propensity to think analytically, which in turn leads to their choice preferences for compromise options.

Research limitations/implications

The findings show that consumer preferences for one option over the other alternatives in choice contexts are susceptible to subtle differences in the manner that exclusion is communicated. The studies are limited to recall tasks and scenarios that previous research has shown to be effective. Future research may use actual exclusion to corroborate this study’s findings.

Practical implications

Marketing practitioners may benefit from this study’s findings when it comes to an increase in the relative share of their target brand against their competitor brands by introducing a third option.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research is the first to provide evidence that exclusion communicated in an explicit manner produces the attraction effect, whereas exclusion communicated in an implicit manner produces the compromise effect. Given that threatening situations often influence individuals’ preferences and choices, how social exclusion shapes cognitive processes is an empirical question worthy of investigation.
Integrative conceptual framework of student loyalty, service quality, e-service quality and university image in open and distance learning
Authors: Daud Yon Rosli , Mohd Amin Mohd Rushidi
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between the determinants of student loyalty, i.e. service quality, e-service quality and university image in open and distance learning (ODL) based on the theory of reasoned action, in more systematic approach. This study also examines university's image role as a mediator on the relationship between service quality and e-service quality towards student loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper develops an integrative conceptual framework along with propositions by integrating comprehensive literature, in the field of service quality, e-service quality, university image and student loyalty. Through the review of detail literature and based theory of reasoned action (TRA), it is proposed that service quality, e-service quality and university image would be meaningful attributes towards student loyalty. In addition, it is also contended that university image would mediate the relationship between service quality and e-service quality towards students’ loyalty.

Findings

This paper provides an integrative conceptual framework on service quality, e-service quality, university image and students loyalty in open and distance learning (ODL) context.

Originality/value

None of the models presented in the literature explore the mediation of university image on the relationship between service quality and e-service quality towards student loyalty as the most recent research on the subject envisages.
Advance fee fraud scammers’ criminal expertise and deceptive strategies: a qualitative case study
Authors: Tambe Ebot Alain
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine how advance fee fraud (AFF) scammers build their criminal expertise over time and why the AFF scamming deception process succeeds.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is interpretive, based on case study interview data with two scammers operating in Africa. The interviews were done over a period of time, and the data collection and analysis processes were iterative, primarily driven by the interview data.

Findings

The authors identify four processes that explain how scammers build criminal expertise, namely, socializing with scammers, accepting scamming definitions, practicing scamming techniques and manipulating digital technologies. The fourth process (manipulating digital technologies) also explains why scammer’s tactics are successful.

Originality/value

AFF scamming is a major crime affecting individuals and organizations worldwide, yet it remains under researched as little is known about scammers, their expertise and why their deceptive techniques are successful. The first contribution identifies four processes by which individuals build scamming criminal expertise as they transition from scammers-in-the-making to full-blown active scammers. The second contribution identifies the rationalizations used by scammers-in-the-making and scammers to justify transitioning into scamming and engaging in scamming criminality. The third contribution explains how the digital environment contributes to the processes of building scamming criminal expertise and why scammer’s deceptive tactics are sometimes successful.
Artificial intelligence (AI) in FinTech decisions: the role of congruity and rejection sensitivity
Authors: Gonçalves Ana Rita , Breda Meira Amanda , Shuqair Saleh , Costa Pinto Diego
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The digital revolution has changed consumer–service provider interaction, spawning a new generation of FinTech. This paper analyzes consumers' reactions to artificial intelligence (AI) (vs human) decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors tested their predictions by conducting two experimental studies with FinTech consumers (n = 503).

Findings

The results reveal that consumers' responses to AI (vs human) credit decisions depend on the type of credit product. For personal loans, the rejection by an AI provider triggers higher levels of satisfaction compared to a credit analyst. This effect is explained via the perceived role congruity. In addition, the findings reveal that consumers’ rejection sensitivity determines how they perceive financial services role congruity.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, this research is the first to jointly examine AI (vs human) credit decisions in FinTech and role congruity, extending prior research in the field.
Well-being and performance at work: a new approach favourable to the optimal functioning of workers through virtuous organisational practices
Authors: Aubouin-Bonnaventure Julia , Chevalier Séverine , Lahiani Fadi-Joseph , Fouquereau Evelyne
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The post-COVID-19 era is characterised in the professional field by a deterioration in the psychological health of employees and by “The Great Resignation”. These phenomena require managers to rethink both organisational and HR strategies to protect their workers’ health, to retain them in their job and, in fine, to ensure the sustainability of the organisation. However, studies have demonstrated that high performance work systems (HPWS), which are currently the dominant approach in human resource management, are related to an intensification of work and consequently a deterioration of employees’ health (conflicting outcomes perspective). At the same time, workers’ well-being has been shown to be associated with numerous organisational outcomes, such as individual performance. However, relatively few articles have investigated win–win organisational practices or programmes that promote the well-being and consequently performance of workers. These include virtuous organisational practices (VOPs), which specifically aim to enhance employees’ well-being, considered not as a means to an end, but as an end in itself (mutual gains perspective). This paper aims to develop the general hypothesis that VOPs could increase employees’ performance by protecting their health and thus offer an alternative to HPWS.

Design/methodology/approach

We review relevant current research on psychological well-being and work performance and present innovative systems of organisational practices such as VOPs that create psychologically healthy workplaces and enhance workers’ optimal functioning (well-being and performance).

Findings

Based on theoretical arguments and empirical studies, we hypothesise that alternative practices such as VOPs can increase employees’ performance while protecting their health and encouraging them to stay in the organisation.

Research limitations/implications

After this review, we discuss future avenues for research to encourage the scientific community to test this hypothesis.

Practical implications

Finally, we make a number of specific recommendations about how to (1) appraise, design and implement VOPs, (2) enhance organisational communication and managerial adherence to VOPs, and (3) train managers in R.I.G.H.T leadership behaviours.

Originality/value

Presentation of an original approach in this research field: the VOPs.
Does workplace digitalization matter in linking transformational leadership and innovative culture to employee engagement?
Authors: Hooi Lai Wan , Chan Ai Joo
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Engaged employees are an organization’s competitive advantage because the employees are willing to strive for organizational excellence. This paper examines employee engagement (EE), taking workplace digitalization as the mediator. The authors developed an integrated framework introducing transformational leadership and innovative culture as EE antecedents in workplace digitalization settings. Specifically, the authors argue that transformational leadership and innovative culture influence EE directly and indirectly through workplace digitalization.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 256 valid online-survey samples were used in the structural equation modeling (SEM) tests. The respondents were the management-level executives of Selangor/Kuala Lumpur-based Malaysian companies.

Findings

The authors' findings support that workplace digitalization positively influences EE. Unlike transformational leadership, innovative culture positively influences workplace digitalization. Further, innovative culture directly affects EE and indirectly through workplace digitalization, albeit partially. Transformational leadership directly influences EE but is insignificant through workplace digitalization.

Practical implications

The findings suggest that organizations that wish to fast-track EE can cultivate an innovative culture to facilitate employees' acceptance of workplace digitalization and enhance EE.

Originality/value

The authors' research expands the interdisciplinary theoretical foundation on how employees' perception and acceptance of workplace digitalization add to EE by highlighting the roles of transformational leaders and innovative culture. The authors' research is among the first few investigating how transformational leadership and innovative culture affect EE in the presence of workplace digitalization. The authors also discussed workplace digitalization as a mediator to innovative culture–EE relationships.
Blockchain technology adaptation and organizational inertia: moderating role between knowledge management processes and supply chain resilience
Authors: Hu Lingyu , Zhou Jie , Zhang Justin Zuopeng , Behl Abhishek
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Supply chain resilience and knowledge management (KM) processes have received increasing attention from researchers and practitioners. Nevertheless, previous studies often treat the two streams of literature independently. Drawing on the knowledge-based theory, this study aims to reconcile these two different streams of literature and examine how and when KM processes influence supply chain resilience.

Design/methodology/approach

This research develops a conceptual model to test a sample of data from 203 Chinese manufacturing firms using a structural equation modeling method. Specifically, the current study empirically examines how KM processes affect different forms of supply chain resilience (supply chain readiness, responsiveness and recovery) and examines the moderating effect of blockchain technology adaptation and organizational inertia on the relationship between KM processes and supply chain resilience.

Findings

The findings show that KM processes positively affect three dimensions of supply chain resilience, i.e., supply chain readiness, responsiveness and recovery. Besides, the study reveals that blockchain technology adoption positively moderates the relationships between KM processes and supply chain resilience, whereas organizational inertia negatively moderates these above relationships.

Originality/value

This research linked the two research areas of supply chain resilience and KM processes, further bridging the gap in the research exploration of KM in the supply chain field. Next, this study contributes to supply chain resilience research by investigating how KM systems positively impact supply chain readiness, responsiveness and recovery. In addition, this study found a moderating effect of blockchain technology adaption and organizational inertia on the relationship between KM processes and supply chain resilience. These findings provide a reference for Chinese manufacturing firms to strengthen supply chain resilience, achieve secure supply chain operations and gain a competitive advantage in the supply chain. This studys’findings advance the understanding of supply chain resilience and provide practical implications for supply chain managers.
The relationship between digital literacy and heutagogy learning: a pilot study among college students in Indonesia
Authors: Mannan Endang Fitriyah , Nurpratama Muhammad Rifky , Shuhidan Shamila Mohamed , Masrek Mohamad Noorman
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study aims to describe digital literacy (DL) and heutagogy and examine the relationship between the two.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed a quantitative approach using a survey method. The respondents were students at a college in Indonesia. The respondents were students at a college in Indonesia. Data were collected using a questionnaire distributed to students via a Google form. Furthermore, the data were processed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS).

Findings

From a demographic profile, the study describes that students choose Google to search for information rather than to the library, the most used gadget is a smartphone, the average access to information is 2–7 h per day and the purpose of information access is to do assignments. The results of the statistical tests show there is a relationship between heutagogy learning and DL.

Research limitations/implications

This study will help policymakers to develop DL in a vocational school.

Originality/value

This research will contribute to the improvement and implementation of heutagogy learning emphasis on a DL case study in Indonesia. This research can assist policymakers in preparing DL skills in heutagogy learning in vocational school. This research will add new literature, methodology and framework on heutagogy learning and DL to library and information management field.
Women's happiness and brand content marketing
Authors: Blanco-Moreno Sofía , Costa-Feito Aroa , Santos Carmen R. , González-Fernández Ana M.
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study analyzes the effect of content marketing on women's happiness through eudaimonia and hedonism factors and the final result on desires and actions taken.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 227 valid questionnaires were collected from women respondents. The data analysis used partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to clarify the relationships in the proposed model.

Findings

Content marketing turns out to be a crucial factor affecting both eudaimonia and hedonism. Moreover, while eudaimonia plays a particular role in women's behavior, hedonism works likewise on desires.

Practical implications

A crucial decision before developing content marketing is to consider if the final result is to produce desirability or feasibility in consumers. Content marketing addressing eudaimonia will impact feasibility; while the content aims to create desirability, the hedonic aspect of happiness should be emphasized.

Originality/value

Though content marketing and the effect of content marketing on brands' performance and consumer decision processes has been deeply analyzed in the literature, there is a lack of research into the effect of such content on consumers' well-being. Another contribution of this study is the focus on local brands and on women's eudaimonia and hedonism.
Talk or something more? COVID-19 and youth discourses of participation
Authors: Szabó Andrea , Déri András
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Political participation of young people has been examined, but there is a lack of research about how these participation forms are interpreted and what counts as participation for young people. The study aims to identify discourses of political participation in Hungary, where the COVID-19 restrictions during 2020–2021 have confined young people's everyday interactions and political activism to the online space for an extended period. The authors’ asteroid-effect hypothesis suggests that new discourses of political participation have become more widespread, which may have reinterpreted the previous dynamics between online and offline participation.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors analyse the results of six focus groups and eight interviews with young people conducted between 2021–2022 through discourse analysis.

Findings

The qualitative results show that to intellectualise the everyday discourses of youth political participation, extending its classical theories is worthwhile. While online participation has not emerged as a paramount, positive interpretational framework, a new discourse of political participation has emerged, making conversation a fundamental act.

Originality/value

While the results are limited to Hungarian youth, the strong appearance of participation as a communicative action can have consequences to theoretical approaches of political participation. The authors believe that COVID-19 restrictions had a significant role in this change, because family talks became more politicised.
Coming of age in your local mating market: Just a numbers game?
Authors: Bowers E. Keith
Published: May 2023

Research Highlight: Woodman, J. P., Cole, E. F., Firth, J. A., Perrins, C. M., & Sheldon, B. C. (2022). Disentangling the causes of age‐assortative mating in bird populations with contrasting life‐history strategies. Journal of Animal Ecology, https://doi.org/10.1111/1365‐2656.13851. In their study of age‐assortative mating, Woodman and colleagues thoroughly and concisely detail its behavioural determinants using datasets, astonishing in themselves, amassed from their decades‐long studies of mute swans (Cygnus olor) and great tits (Parus major), species that are respectively longer‐ and shorter‐lived and occupying different segments of the slow/fast life‐history continuum. Here, they show that positive age‐assortative mating occurs through active, age‐based mate selection in mute swans which play the long game, whereas in the shorter‐lived great tit this is principally a passive byproduct of demographic processes. That great tits have relatively lower interannual survivorship means that newly recruited, young birds occupy a larger proportion of the breeding population in any given year than occurs in mute swans. The adaptive significance of age‐assortative mating is yet to be determined, but the current study provides an exciting possibility for the role of selection on assortative mating generally in either promoting or constraining active mate selection and sexual dimorphism within and across the tree of life.
Women with fibromyalgia (ACR criteria) compared with women diagnosed by doctors and women with osteoarthritis: Cross‐sectional study using functional and clinical variables
Authors: da Silva Almeida Davi Oliveira , Pontes‐Silva André , Dibai‐Filho Almir Vieira , Costa‐de‐Jesus Sulamizia Filomena , Avila Mariana Arias , Fidelis‐de‐Paula‐Gomes Cid André
Published: May 2023

Purpose

To compare functional and clinical variables of women with fibromyalgia (American College of Rheumatology [ACR] criteria) vs women diagnosed by doctors and women with knee osteoarthritis (KOA).

Methods

This is a cross‐sectional study. We used clinical measures, namely, Widespread Pain Index (WPI), Symptom Severity Scale (SSS), Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire‐Revised (FIQ‐R), Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI), Pain‐Related Catastrophizing Thoughts Scale (PCTS), and functional measures, such as Sit‐to‐Stand (STS) test, and Timed Up and Go (TUG) test.

Results

The sample consisted of 91 participants divided into 3 groups: participants with KOA (n = 30), fibromyalgia diagnosed according to the ACR (FM‐ACR, n = 31), and fibromyalgia according to the medical diagnosis (FM‐Med, n = 30). In the comparisons, we observed a significant difference (P < 0.05) and a large effect size (d ≥ 0.8), between all groups, in the WPI, WPI + SSS, FIQ‐R domains, CSI, and PCTS. We did not observe significant values in the correlations between the clinical variables, SST, and TUG test.

Conclusion

People with fibromyalgia according, to the ACR, have higher levels of widespread pain, symptom severity, global impact on quality of life, central sensitization, and catastrophizing compared with people with knee OA and people with clinical fibromyalgia diagnosis not confirmed by the ACR diagnostic criteria.
Generalized low levels of serum N‐glycans associate with better health status
Authors: Fan Jiteng , Sha Jichen , Chang Shuwai , Zhao Huijuan , Niu Xiaoyun , Gu Yong , Gu Jianxin , Ren Shifang
Published: May 2023

Caloric restriction (CR) can prolong life and ameliorate age‐related diseases; thus, its molecular basis might provide new insights for finding biomarker and intervention for aging and age‐related disease. Glycosylation is an important post‐translational modification, which can timely reflect the changes of intracellular state. Serum N‐glycosylation was found changed with aging in humans and mice. CR is widely accepted as an effective anti‐aging intervention in mice and could affect mouse serum fucosylated N‐glycans. However, the effect of CR on the level of global N‐glycans remains unknown. In order to explore whether CR affect the level of global N‐glycans, we performed a comprehensive serum glycome profiling in mice of 30% calorie restriction group and ad libitum group at 7 time points across 60 weeks by MALDI‐TOF‐MS. At each time point, the majority of glycans, including galactosylated and high mannose glycans, showed a consistent low level in CR group. Interestingly, O‐acetylated sialoglycans presented an upward change different from other derived traits, which is mainly reflected in two biantennary α2,6‐linked sialoglycans (H5N4Ge2Ac1, H5N4Ge2Ac2). Liver transcriptome analysis further revealed a decreased transcriptional level of genes involved in N‐glycan biosynthesis while increased level of acetyl‐CoA production. This finding is consistent with changes in serum N‐glycans and O‐acetylated sialic acids. Therefore, we provided one possible molecular basis for the beneficial effect of CR from N‐glycosylation perspective.
Who responds to a multi‐component treatment for cannabis use disorder? Using multivariable and machine learning models to classify treatment responders and non‐responders
Authors: Tomko Rachel L. , Wolf Bethany J. , McClure Erin A. , Carpenter Matthew J. , Magruder Kathryn M. , Squeglia Lindsay M. , Gray Kevin M.
Published: May 2023

Background and Aims

Treatments for cannabis use disorder (CUD) have limited efficacy and little is known about who responds to existing treatments. Accurately predicting who will respond to treatment can improve clinical decision‐making by allowing clinicians to offer the most appropriate level and type of care. This study aimed to determine whether multivariable/machine learning models can be used to classify CUD treatment responders versus non‐responders.

Methods

This secondary analysis used data from a National Drug Abuse Treatment Clinical Trials Network multi‐site outpatient clinical trial in the United States. Adults with CUD (n = 302) received 12 weeks of contingency management, brief cessation counseling and were randomized to receive additionally either (1) N‐Acetylcysteine or (2) placebo. Multivariable/machine learning models were used to classify treatment responders (i.e. two consecutive negative urine cannabinoid tests or a 50% reduction in days of use) versus non‐responders using baseline demographic, medical, psychiatric and substance use information.

Results

Prediction performance for various machine learning and regression prediction models yielded area under the curves (AUCs) >0.70 for four models (0.72–0.77), with support vector machine models having the highest overall accuracy (73%; 95% CI = 68–78%) and AUC (0.77; 95% CI = 0.72, 0.83). Fourteen variables were retained in at least three of four top models, including demographic (ethnicity, education), medical (diastolic/systolic blood pressure, overall health, neurological diagnosis), psychiatric (depressive symptoms, generalized anxiety disorder, antisocial personality disorder) and substance use (tobacco smoker, baseline cannabinoid level, amphetamine use, age of experimentation with other substances, cannabis withdrawal intensity) characteristics.

Conclusions

Multivariable/machine learning models can improve on chance prediction of treatment response to outpatient cannabis use disorder treatment, although further improvements in prediction performance are likely necessary for decisions about clinical care.
Pyridostigmine in chronic intestinal pseudo‐obstruction – a systematic review
Authors: Wilkie Bruce D , Noori Jawed , Johnston Michael , Woods Rodney , Keck James O. , Behrenbruch Corina
Published: May 2023

Background

Chronic intestinal pseudo‐obstruction (CIPO) may be a primary or secondary phenomenon and is often multifactorial. Treatment is largely directed at improving colonic motility. The use of cholinesterase inhibitors such as pyridostigmine has been hypothesized to increase acetylcholine in the bowel, improving symptoms and transit times.

Methods

A systematic review of the use of pyridostigmine in CIPO was conducted using scientific and commercial search engines identifying scientific studies enrolling adult human subjects, published from 2000 to 2022 in the English language.

Results

Four studies were identified including two randomized controlled trials (RCT) and two observational studies. The studies had heterogenous inclusion criteria, dosing regimens and reported outcomes. Two studies were identified as being at high risk of bias. All studies reported improved patient outcomes with use of pyridostigmine, and low rates (4.3%) of mild cholinergic side effects. No major side effects were reported.

Conclusion

The use of pyridostigmine in management of CIPO is biologically plausible due to its ability to increase colonic motility, and early studies on its role are uniformly suggestive of benefit with low side‐effect profile. Four clinical studies have been conducted to date, with small sample sizes, heterogeneity and high risk of bias. Further high‐quality studies are required to enable assessment of pyridostigmine's utility as an effective management strategy in CIPO.
Tetrahedral framework nucleic acid loaded with glabridin: A transdermal delivery system applicated to anti‐hyperpigmentation
Authors: He Jiajun , Chen Wen , Chen Xingyu , Xie Yu , Zhao Yuxuan , Tian Taoran , Guo Bin , Cai Xiaoxiao
Published: May 2023

Topical application of tyrosinase inhibitors, such as hydroquinone and arbutin, is the most common clinical treatment for hyperpigmentation. Glabridin (Gla) is a natural isoflavone that inhibits tyrosinase activity, free radical scavenging, and antioxidation. However, its water solubility is poor, and it cannot pass through the human skin barrier alone. Tetrahedral framework nucleic acid (tFNA), a new type of DNA biomaterial, can penetrate cells and tissues and can be used as carriers to deliver small‐molecule drugs, polypeptides, and oligonucleotides. This study aimed to develop a compound drug system using tFNA as the carrier to transport Gla and deliver it through the skin to treat pigmentation. Furthermore, we aimed to explore whether tFNA–Gla can effectively alleviate the hyperpigmentation caused by increased melanin production and determine whether tFNA–Gla exerts substantial synergistic effects during treatment. Our results showed that the developed system successfully treated pigmentation by inhibiting regulatory proteins related to melanin production. Furthermore, our findings showed that the system was effective in treating epidermal and superficial dermal diseases. The tFNA‐based transdermal drug delivery system can thus develop into novel, effective options for non‐invasive drug delivery through the skin barrier.