bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recruitment of informal caregivers into community oncology research studies: results from the 2022 Landscape Assessment
Authors: Wang Ying , Nightingale Chandylen L , Braun-Inglis Christa , Sterba Katherine , Weaver Kathryn E , Wood Eden , Kadambi Sindhuja , Gada Umang , Montes Alexander , Magnuson Allison , Yilmaz Sule , Culakova Eva , Strause Sarah , Kamen Charles , Flannery Marie , Mustian Karen , Morrow Gary , Mohile Supriya , Loh Kah Poh
Published: September 2024

Understanding the experiences of community oncology practices in recruiting informal (unpaid/family) caregivers into research studies can inform strategies to improve caregiver enrollment. We used data from the 2022 National Cancer Institute Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP) Landscape Assessment to describe the experience of recruiting informal caregivers for research studies in community oncology practices. Among 258 practice groups, only one-third (30%, 78/258) reported prior experience recruiting informal caregivers for research studies. In multivariable logistic analyses, having a greater number of oncology providers (increase per 10 providers, adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 1.16, 95% CI 1.03-1.31) and having advanced practice providers (APPs) involved in research (AOR 2.17, 95% CI 1.05-4.48) were significantly associated with prior experience recruiting caregivers. In conclusion, many community oncology practices lack caregiver recruitment experience and may benefit from education, integration of APPs/caregiver stakeholders in research infrastructure, and/or other strategies to improve caregiver recruitment.
The asymmetric power model 20 years on
Authors: Marsh David , Richards David , Smith Martin J
Published: September 2024

It is over 20 years since the publication of the Asymmetric Power Model (APM). In the ensuing period, Britain has faced multiple challenges: the increasing fragmentation of public services; austerity politics; devolution; and, most recently, coronavirus disease and Brexit. It is this backdrop which provides the context to this article. First, it addresses how the literature has subsequently evolved. It then examines what has changed over the last two decades while also emphasizing what remains the same. Here, we highlight issues regarding both increased inequality and instability, focusing particularly on tension emerging from a de-centralizing-recentralizing approach to governance. The article concludes by offering a revised APM as a means of understanding British politics moving forward.
Inter-Urban Alliances and the Archives of Legitimacy in the Southern Low Countries, 1250–1450
Authors: Makleff Ron Mordechai
Published: September 2024

By the thirteenth century, confederations of communes in western Europe were claiming important legal, political and military prerogatives for themselves in written charters of inter-urban alliance. Scholars have seen these alliances as a tool of the emerging economic elite or as forces of resistance to the sovereign territorial state taking shape in the late Middle Ages. To understand alternatives to princely polity formation in the wealthy, urbanized regions of Brabant, Flanders and Liège, however, this article studies urban alliances as a power in their own right by examining how new documentary practices contributed to older traditions of inter-urban collaboration. Towns and their coalitions created and distributed bilateral, multilateral and hybrid or concentric charters of alliance and kept them in their own archives, which they saw as repositories of legal security and authority. Meanwhile, archivists, chancellors and other technicians of legitimacy helped princes to consolidate legal superiority over their supposedly subject towns by spearheading the confiscation and destruction of communal archives, in particular their charters of alliance. They thus obscured the scale of inter-urban solidarity: this article reports fifty-eight unique alliances preserved in over 200 charters between 1219 and 1444 across these three regions.
Enhancement of Sesquiterpenoid Production by Methyl Jasmonate in Atractylodes chinensis Adventitious Root Culture and its Transcriptional Regulation
Authors: Yun Cholil , Pak Solme , Pang Yulin , Phyon Jong Min , Yao Liuyang , Guo Xiaorui , Kim Cholung , Ma Songsu , Ri Tongchol , Pak Ryongho , Wang Huimei
Published: September 2024

Adventitious root (AR) culture of Atractylodes chinensis is an efficient platform for sustainable production of its sesquiterpenoid compounds (atractylon and β-eudesmol). However, their limited accumulation levels need an effective elicitation approach, and the present study solved this problem using methyl jasmonate (MeJA) as an elicitor. The effects of its treatment concentration and duration on metabolite production were investigated. The ARs treated with 100 µM MeJA for 7 d increased atractylon and β-eudesmol by 3.64- and 1.90-fold, respectively, compared with the control. We further performed transcriptome analysis to explore the transcriptional regulation mechanism of the MeJA elicitation. A total of 124,464 unigenes were identified in A. chinensis ARs, of which 3,568 genes were upregulated and 3,864 genes were downregulated with the MeJA treatment. The MeJA treatment activated the endogenous jasmonic acid biosynthesis and signaling pathways and sesquiterpenoid biosynthesis. In addition, MeJA treatment more significantly activated genes of the methylerythritol phosphate pathway than of the mevalonate pathway. In addition, 14 genes encoding terpene synthase were identified to be significantly upregulated. A total of 2,700 transcription factors (TFs) were identified in A. chinensis ARs, of which Tify, MYB and MADS were significantly enriched under the MeJA treatment. We predicted a new antagonistic interaction between MYC2 and CPP TFs, which was significantly regulated by the MeJA treatment. The results of real-time quantitative PCR and enzyme activity assays proved the reliability of the transcriptome data. This study will help improve the in vitro production system of A. chinensis sesquiterpenoids and understand the transcriptional regulation mechanism of MeJA elicitation.
Highly Sensitive Strigolactone Perception by a Divergent Clade KAI2 Receptor in a Facultative Root Parasitic Plant, Phtheirospermum japonicum
Authors: Takei Saori , Otani Masahiko , Ishikawa Tomoya , Suzuki Taiki , Okabe Shoma , Nishiyama Kotaro , Kawakami Naoto , Seto Yoshiya
Published: September 2024

Phtheirospermum japonicum, a member of the Orobanchaceae family, is a facultative root parasitic plant that can survive without parasitizing the host. In contrast, obligate root parasitic plants, such as Striga and Orobanche, which are also members of the Orobanchaceae family, cannot survive in the absence of the host. The germination of obligate root parasitic plants is typically induced by host root-derived strigolactones (SLs) at very low concentrations. The KAI2/HTL family proteins have been found to be involved in the perception of karrikin (KAR), a smoke-derived germination inducer and unidentified endogenous ligand, in non-parasitic plants. Obligate root parasitic plants possess uniquely diverged KAI2 clade genes, which are collectively referred to as KAI2d. Many of those have been shown to function as SL receptors. Intriguingly, the KAI2d clade genes are also conserved in P. japonicum, even though this plant does not require SLs for germination. The biochemical and physiological functions of the KAI2d proteins in P. japonicum remain unclear. Here, we report that some of these proteins can function as SL receptors in P. japonicum. Moreover, we found that one of them, PjKAI2d4, is highly sensitive to SLs when expressed in Arabidopsis, and it is similar to the sensitive SL receptors found in Striga and Orobanche. These results suggest that the KAI2d clade SL receptors play a crucial role not only in obligate parasites but also in facultative parasitic plants.
Induced almost para-Kähler Einstein metrics on cotangent bundles
Authors: Čap Andreas , Mettler Thomas
Published: September 2024

In earlier work, we have shown that for certain geometric structures on a smooth manifold M of dimension n, one obtains an almost para-Kähler–Einstein metric on a manifold A of dimension 2n associated to the structure on M. The geometry also associates a diffeomorphism between A and $T^*M$ to any torsion-free connection compatible with the geometric structure. Hence we can use this construction to associate to each compatible connection an almost para-Kähler–Einstein metric on $T^*M$. In this short article, we discuss the relation of these metrics to Patterson–Walker metrics and derive explicit formulae for them in the cases of projective, conformal and Grassmannian structures.
Development and validation of a nomogram for predicting the interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy in patients with lupus nephritis
Authors: Wang Huifang , Chen Qiaoling , Ye Qiuping , Liu Lifang , Wei Lixin
Published: September 2024

Objective

Interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy (IFTA) were frequent histologic features of LN, and LN patients with IFTA have poor renal outcomes. In this study, we aimed to construct prediction models for the IFTA in LN patients.

Methods

This retrospective study included 303 patients with biopsy-proven LN at the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University and Fujian Medical University Union Hospital. The participants were randomly divided into development and validation cohorts. They were further divided into IFTA and non-IFTA groups. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression model with laboratory test results collected at the time of kidney biopsy was used to optimize feature selection for the risk model. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was applied to build a predicting model incorporating the feature selected in the LASSO regression model. Discrimination, calibration, and clinical usefulness of the predicting model were assessed using the C-index, calibration plot, and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Internal validation was assessed using the bootstrapping validation. A nomogram for individual assessment was constructed based on the preferable model.

Results

Predictors contained in the prediction nomogram included age, BMI, mean arterial pressure, log antinuclear antibody (logANA), C3, estimated glomerular filtration rate and serum uric acid. The model displayed good discrimination with a C-index of 0.794 (95% CI 0.734–0.854) and good calibration. High C-index value of 0.857 (95% CI 0.776–0.938) could still be reached in the interval validation. A nomogram model based on the LASSO model was created for producing a probability score of IFTA in LN patients.

Conclusion

With excellent predictive abilities, the nomogram may provide a simple and reliable tool to distinguish LN patients with IFTA and help physicians make clinical decisions in their comprehensive assessment.
Radiation dose reduction and image quality in pediatric paranasal sinus CT: with automatic tube current modulation and iterative reconstruction technique
Authors: Chen Xiao-Fang , Zhang Yi-Chi , Ding Ning , Liu Li , Ji Yi-Ding , Zhang Chao , Chi Jing
Published: September 2024

Our objective is to evaluate radiation dose and image quality in pediatric paranasal sinus computed tomography (CT) with automatic tube current modulation (ATCM) and sinogram-affirmed iterative reconstruction algorithm (SAFIRE). CT scans from 80 patients were divided into two groups: Group A [80 kVp, pitch 1.5, 40 mAs, the filtered back projection (FBP) algorithm] and Group B (70 kVp, pitch 3, ATCM with reference at 40 mAs, SAFIRE strengths 1–5). We have evaluated image quality and radiation dose. Group B demonstrated significantly lower volume computed tomography dose index, dose-length product, and effective dose than Group A (0.13 ± 0.03 vs. 1.57 ± 0.01 mGy, 2.27 ± 0.82 vs. 19.88 ± 2.01 mGy·cm, and 0.0081 ± 0.0017 vs. 0.079 ± 0.013 mSv, respectively; P < .001). Increasing SAFIRE strengths correlated with noise reduction and SNR enhancement. Group B’s noise and SNRsoft at SAFIRE strength 5 were comparable with Group A. Images reconstructed with SAFIRE strength 5 in Group B exhibit comparable image quality with FBP in Group A.
Stratified Private Safety Nets: How Legal Status Shapes Financial Contributions by Immigrant-Origin Young Adults
Authors: Delgado Vanessa
Published: September 2024

Previous research documents how immigrant-origin Latino/a young adults are more likely to “give back” financially to their immigrant families. However, we know less about how immigration status complicates the financial contributions young adults are known to provide to their immigrant parents. Drawing on 120 in-depth longitudinal interviews with Latino/a young adults from undocumented, mixed-status, and documented families, I argue that parental immigration status shapes young adults’ decisions to financially contribute, and the immigration status of the young adults shapes the extent to which they are able to “give back.” The findings demonstrate that young adults with undocumented parents were more likely to financially contribute because their parents face extreme economic exclusion. Most undocumented participants were Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients and shared similar money sharing patterns as citizen participants; however, DACAmented young adults, unlike citizens, worried about their legal precarity when sharing money with their undocumented parents. Citizens with documented parents felt less pressure to economically contribute to their households; if they did support, it was often situational to help parents weather a temporary hardship. This study contributes to the fields of family sociology, racial/ethnic wealth inequality, and aging and the life course.
Unraveling devitalization: its impact on immune response and ectopic bone remodeling from autologous and allogeneic callus mimics
Authors: de Silva Leanne , van den Beucken Jeroen J J P , Rosenberg Antoine J W P , Longoni Alessia , Gawlitta Debby
Published: September 2024

Endochondral bone regeneration is a promising approach in regenerative medicine. Callus mimics (CMs) are engineered and remodeled into bone tissue upon implantation. The long-term objective is to fabricate a sustainable off-the-shelf treatment option for patients. Devitalization was introduced to facilitate storage and using allogeneic (donor) cells would further propel the off-the-shelf approach. However, allogeneic CMs for bone regeneration pose a potential antigenicity concern. Here, we explored the impact of devitalization on antigenicity and osteoinductive bone formation when implanting syngeneic or allogeneic CM in a vital or devitalized state. For this, we implanted chondrogenically differentiated rat-derived mesenchymal stromal cells using an allogeneic immunocompetent ectopic rat model. Vital syngeneic CMs demonstrated the highest bone formation, and vital allogeneic CMs showed the lowest bone formation, while both devitalized CMs showed comparable intermediate levels of bone formation. Preceding bone formation, the level of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining at 7 and 14 days was proportional to the level of eventual bone formation. No differences were observed for local innate immune responses at any time point before or after bone formation. In contrast, allogeneic CMs elicit a mild adaptive immune response, which still permits bone formation in an immunocompetent environment, albeit at a reduced rate compared to the autologous living counterpart. Overall, devitalization delays bone formation when autologous CMs are implanted, whereas it accelerates bone formation in allogeneic CMs, highlighting the potential of this approach for achieving off-the-shelf treatment.
Hepatocyte growth factor facilitates the repair of spinal cord injuries by driving the chemotactic migration of mesenchymal stem cells through the β-catenin/TCF4/Nedd9 signaling pathway
Authors: Hu Ya’nan , Chen Huanhuan , Yang Min , Xu Jianwei , Liu Jinming , He Qisheng , Xu Xiaojing , Ji Zhongqing , Yang Ying , Yan Mengwen , Zhang Huanxiang
Published: September 2024

Transplanted mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can significantly aid in repairing spinal cord injuries (SCIs) by migrating to and settling at the injury site. However, this process is typically inefficient, as only a small fraction of MSCs successfully reach the target lesion area. During SCI, the increased expression and secretion of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) act as a chemoattractant that guides MSC migration. Nonetheless, the precise mechanisms by which HGF influences MSC migration are not fully understood. This study focused on unraveling the molecular pathways that drive MSC migration toward the SCI site in response to HGF. It was found that HGF can activate β-catenin signaling in MSCs by either phosphorylating LRP6, suppressing GSK3β phosphorylation through the AKT and ERK1/2 pathways, or enhancing the expression and nuclear translocation of TCF4. This activation leads to elevated Nedd9 expression, which promotes focal adhesion formation and F-actin polymerization, facilitating chemotactic migration. Transplanting MSCs during peak HGF expression in injured tissues substantially improves nerve regeneration, reduces scarring, and enhances hind limb mobility. Additionally, prolonging HGF release can further boost MSC migration and engraftment, thereby amplifying regenerative outcomes. However, inhibiting HGF/Met or interfering with β-catenin or Nedd9 signaling significantly impairs MSC engraftment, obstructing tissue repair and functional recovery. Together, these findings provide a theoretical basis and practical strategy for MSC transplantation therapy in SCI, highlighting the specific molecular mechanisms by which HGF regulates β-catenin signaling in MSCs, ultimately triggering their chemotactic migration.
Effects of monensin and a blend of magnesium oxide on performance, feeding behavior, and rumen morphometrics of Zebu beef cattle fed high-starch diets
Authors: Bethancourt-Garcia Javier A , Ladeira Marcio M , Nascimento Karolina B , Ramírez-Zamudio Germán D , Meneses Javier A Moreno , Galvão Matheus C , Bernardes Thiago F , Gionbelli Mateus P
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a blend of different sources of magnesium oxide associated or not with monensin, on productive, ruminal, and nutritional parameters of steers. Eighty-four Nellore steers with an initial body weight (BW) of 367.3 ± 37.9 kg were allocated to one of 28 pens, with three steers per pen. Each pen was considered an experimental unit. Using a completely randomized design with a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement, the following treatments were assigned to each pen: 1) Control (CON)—a basal diet without additive inclusion; 2) Magnesium oxide blend (MG)—basal diet plus a magnesium-based product (pHix-up, Timab Magnesium, Dinard, France) provided at 0.50% of dry matter (DM); 3) Monensin (MON)—basal diet plus 25 mg/ kg of DM of sodium monensin (Rumensin, Elanco Animal Health, Greenfield, IN); and 4) MG association with MON—basal diet plus MG + MON, at the same doses of the individual treatments. The experimental period lasted 100 d. Blood samples were collected on days 0, 13, and 70 to determine d-lactate levels. Daily feed intake was recorded, and animal ingestive behavior was visually observed on days 66 and 67. On day 70, skeletal muscle tissue samples were obtained through biopsy for gene expression analysis. At the end of the experimental period, carcass ultrasonography was conducted. Subsequently, the steers were slaughtered, and rumen epithelium samples were collected for morphometric analysis. The use of monensin, of magnesium oxide blend, and their interactions, were treated as fixed effects, while the pens were considered as a random effect. Statistical differences were considered when P < 0.05. Steers-fed MG-containing diets consumed approximately 0.6 kg more DM per day than those fed diets without this additive (P = 0.01; 11.3 vs. 11.9 kg/d). The inclusion of MG in the diet increased (P = 0.02) the average daily gain. There was a greater Longissimus muscle area (LMA) and LMA per 100 kg of BW (P ≤ 0.03) for steers-fed diets with MG. Steers-fed MON exhibited reduced mRNA expression of the Atrogin-1 and mTOR compared to steers-fed MG + MON diets (MON × MG: P ≤ 0.04). Steers-fed MON had 6.9% greater feed efficiency (P = 0.02). Papillae width was lesser for CON than other treatments (MON × MG: P = 0.02). In conclusion, the magnesium oxide blend improved performance and carcass traits in high-energy feedlot diets, while monensin enhanced feed efficiency, suggesting potential for their use as alternatives or complements in beef cattle nutrition.
Pharmacokinetic analysis of nicotine and its metabolites (cotinine and trans-3′-hydroxycotinine) in male Sprague-Dawley rats following nose-only inhalation, oral gavage, and intravenous infusion of nicotine
Authors: Tang Yunan , Bryant Matthew S , Li Miao , Min Seonggi , Pellar Gregory , Wu Qiangen , Yang Dong-Jin , Kang Hyun-Ki , Sepehr Estatira , He Xiaobo , McLellen Florence , Lewis Sherry M , Greenhaw James , Fisher Jeffrey , Yang Xiaoxia , Chemerynski Susan , Yee Steven B , Rosenfeldt Hans , Yeager R Philip , Howard Paul C , Hu Shu-Chieh , Roqué Pamela , Goel Reema , Kc Prabha , Yi Jinghai
Published: September 2024

Nicotine is an alkaloid found in tobacco. Human exposure to nicotine primarily occurs through the use of tobacco products. To date, limited nicotine pharmacokinetic data in animals have been reported. This study exposed male Sprague-Dawley rats to vehicle (and/or air) or 4 doses of nicotine via nose-only inhalation (INH), oral gavage (PO), and intravenous (IV) infusion. Plasma, 6 tissues (brain, heart, lung, liver, kidney, and muscle), and urine were collected at multiple timepoints from 5 min to 48 h post-dose. The concentrations of nicotine, cotinine, and trans-3′-hydroxycotinine (3-OH-cotinine) were determined, and the pharmacokinetic profiles were compared among the 4 doses for each route. The results indicated that after single nicotine dose, nicotine bioavailability was 53% via PO. Across all the administration routes and doses, nicotine was quickly distributed to all 6 tissues; kidney had the highest nicotine and cotinine levels, and the lung had the highest 3-OH-cotinine levels; nicotine was metabolized extensively to cotinine and cotinine was metabolized to a lesser extent to 3-OH-cotinine; the elimination of plasma nicotine, cotinine, and 3-OH-cotinine followed first-order kinetics; plasma nicotine had a shorter half-life than cotinine or 3-OH-cotinine; the half-lives of plasma nicotine, cotinine, and 3-OH-cotinine were dose- and route-independent; and nicotine and cotinine were major urinary excretions followed by 3-OH-cotinine. Nicotine, cotinine, and 3-OH-cotinine levels in plasma, tissues, and urine exhibited dose-dependent increases. These study findings improve our understanding of the pharmacokinetics of nicotine, cotinine, and 3-OH-cotinine across different routes of exposure.
Evolutionary characterization of the establishment of H6 influenza viruses in domestic geese in China: implications for the position of the host in the ecosystem
Authors: Peng Liuxia , Jin Ziying , Chen Peiwen , Zhang Zengfeng , Fan Xiaohui , Hong Wenshan , Liu Yongmei , Smith David K , Cheung William Yiu-Man , Wang Jia , Zhu Huachen , Lam Tommy Tsan-Yuk , Guan Yi
Published: September 2024

Geese, both wild and domestic, are generally considered part of the natural reservoir for influenza A viruses. The highly pathogenic H5 Goose/Guangdong avian influenza virus lineage that is still causing outbreaks worldwide was first detected in domestic geese in 1996. However, while wild geese might have a somewhat restricted role in the influenza ecosystem, the role of domestic geese is little studied. Here, 109 H6 viruses isolated from domestic geese during 2001–2018 in southern China had their phylogeny, evolutionary dynamics, and molecular signatures characterized to examine the role of domestic geese. Our findings demonstrated that all geese H6 viruses were derived from H6 viruses established in ducks and that they subsequently formed three distinct hemagglutinin lineages. Rapid evolution of the hemagglutinin genes was not detected after the duck-to-goose transmissions of H6 viruses that then circulated in geese. Despite long-term persistence in geese, H6 viruses were rarely observed to transmit back to ducks or terrestrial poultry and never exchanged genes with viruses from other subtypes. Most geese H6 viruses maintained the primary molecular signatures of their duck precursors. This study raises the possibility that, rather than being part of the natural reservoir, domestic geese might be more like an aberrant host species for influenza A viruses, and perhaps a “dead-end” host.
Protracted Febrile Myalgia Syndrome: A Rare and Difficult Manifestation of Familial Mediterranean Fever
Authors: Tunce Eray , Ulu Kadir , Taşar Sevinç , Sözeri Betül
Published: September 2024

Objective

Protracted febrile myalgia syndrome (PFMS) is characterized by severe myalgia, fever, abdominal pain, and arthralgia/arthritis episodes lasting for several weeks in patients with familial Mediterranean fever. Treatment options include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, and anti–interleukin-1 therapy. This study aimed to share our experiences of PFMS so as to shed light on this rare and elusive condition.

Methods

This cross-sectional analysis included 17 patients diagnosed with PFMS at our pediatric rheumatology clinic between January 2018 and September 2023.

Results

In our clinic, 17 (1%) of 1663 familial Mediterranean fever patients presented with PFMS, and it was the initial manifestation in 10 patients (58.8%) in the cohort. Eight of the 17 patients had an M694V homozygous mutation in the MEFV gene. A magnetic resonance imaging showed myositis and fasciitis in just 1 patient, and myositis alone was evident in 5 others. Symptoms improved in 2 patients with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, whereas prednisolone improved symptoms in 12 patients and anakinra was required in 3 patients. Patients who received anakinra had another severe attack and required long-term anakinra or canakinumab.

Conclusions

Syndrome for PFMS is difficult to recognize as it can sometimes be the first manifestation of familial Mediterranean fever. The syndrome is not accompanied by fever in some patients, even though the word febrile is part of its name. Most patients respond dramatically to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroids. In some patients with PFMS, long-term anakinra or canakinumab treatment may be more useful in preventing severe attacks of PFMS than short-term (5 to 7 days) anakinra treatment.
Detecting microbial engraftment after FMT: sorting signals from noise using placebo sequencing and culture-enriched metagenomics
Authors: Shekarriz Shahrokh , Szamosi Jake C , Whelan Fiona J , Lau Jennifer T , Libertucci Josie , Rossi Laura , Shah Michelle , Wolfe Melanie , Lee Christine H , Moayyedi Paul , Surette Michael G
Published: September 2024

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has shown efficacy for the treatment of ulcerative colitis but with variable response between patients and trials. The mechanisms underlying FMT's therapeutic effects remains poorly understood but is generally assumed to involve engraftment of donor microbiota into the recipient microbiome. Previous studies have reported microbial engraftment following FMT in various disease contexts but with inconsistent results between studies. Here we investigate engraftment in UC patients receiving FMT from a single donor applying amplicon-based profiling, shotgun metagenomics and culture-enriched metagenomics. Placebo samples were included to estimate engraftment noise, and a significant level of false-positive engraftment was observed which confounds the prediction of true engraftment. We show that analyzing engraftment across multiple patients from a single donor enhances the accuracy of detection. We identified a unique set of genes engrafted in responders to FMT which supports strain displacement as the primary mechanism of engraftment in our cohort.
Parameter tuning for active disturbance rejection control of fixed-wing UAV based on improved bald eagle search algorithm
Authors: Xu Dukun , Deng Yimin , Duan Haibin
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to develop a method for tuning the parameters of the active disturbance rejection controller (ADRC) for fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The bald eagle search (BES) algorithm has been improved, and a cost function has been designed to enhance the optimization efficiency of ADRC parameters.

Design/methodology/approach

A six-degree-of-freedom nonlinear model for a fixed-wing UAV has been developed, and its attitude controller has been formulated using the active disturbance rejection control method. The parameters of the disturbance rejection controller have been fine-tuned using the collaborative mutual promotion bald eagle search (CMP-BES) algorithm. The pitch and roll controllers for the UAV have been individually optimized to obtain the most effective controller parameters.

Findings

Inspired by the salp swarm algorithm (SSA), the interaction among individual eagles has been incorporated into the CMP-BES algorithm, thereby enhancing the algorithm's exploration capability. The efficient and accurate optimization ability of the proposed algorithm has been demonstrated through comparative experiments with genetic algorithm, particle swarm optimization, Harris hawks optimization HHO, BES and modified bald eagle search algorithms. The algorithm's capability to solve complex optimization problems has been further proven by testing on the CEC2017 test function suite. A transitional function for fitness calculation has been introduced to accelerate the ability of the algorithm to find the optimal parameters for the ADRC controller. The tuned ADRC controller has been compared with the classical proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller, with gust disturbances introduced to the UAV body axis. The results have shown that the tuned ADRC controller has faster response times and stronger disturbance rejection capabilities than the PID controller.

Practical implications

The proposed CMP-BES algorithm, combined with a fitness function composed of transition functions, can be used to optimize the ADRC controller parameters for fixed-wing UAVs more quickly and effectively. The tuned ADRC controller has exhibited excellent robustness and disturbance rejection capabilities.

Originality/value

The CMP-BES algorithm and transitional function have been proposed for the parameter optimization of the active disturbance rejection controller for fixed-wing UAVs.
Cocreating value with hotel guests in the “new normal”: the case of Spain
Authors: Berenguer-Contri Gloria , Gil-Saura Irene , Gallarza Martina
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to identify the role of coproduction and value-in-use in the overall hotel experience value, and its effects on cognitive-affective satisfaction and loyalty. The country chosen is Spain, in the context of the “new normal,” where the increase in tourist flow after the COVID-19 pandemic has been very relevant, setting up the chance to better assess and discuss value creation in a post-pandemic era.

Design/methodology/approach

The causal model is validated with partial least squares (PLS) in a panel of 405 hotel guests (applying sampling quotas by sex, age and region).

Findings

The chain of effects is verified with stronger links at the end and with a greater weight of value-in-use compared to coproduction. Hotels’ efforts to adapt to the pandemic situation work better if a customized, unique experience is offered and if intensive communication is with and not just to the guest. The role of experience value is key for the cocreation to produce results for satisfaction and loyalty.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the value creation literature by highlighting the respective roles of coproduction and value-in-use as drivers of the satisfaction−loyalty chain, and by introducing the guest’s overall hotel experience value into this chain. This is viewed against the backdrop of the contextual changes that have occurred since 2020 in the Spanish hotel industry. The post-pandemic context “forces” the client to actively participate. Analysis of the implications of this kind of new cocreation on the overall customer experience is relevant for both tourism scholars and managers.
Challenges and strategies of gamification in family businesses: the moderating effects of supervision and engagement
Authors: Gandrita Daniel Mandel , Gandrita Ana , Rosado David Pascoal
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to unravel how family businesses can harness the power of gamification and to illuminate the hurdles that obstruct this path to success. The research identifies these challenges providing valuable insights into the application of gamification in family businesses and the role of supervision and engagement as moderator variables in this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a structural modeling approach in a qualitative research methodology, the authors collected responses from n = 200 participants. The results were analyzed using Spearman’s test and multiple linear regression.

Findings

The research findings reveal that family businesses need to carefully redefine costs when introducing gamification, considering both fixed and variable expenses. The moderating effects of supervision are crucial for user evolution and the correlation, while user engagement influences user and useability experience. Additionally, a positive attitude enhances engagement. Finally, the five key challenges lead to difficulties when implementing gamification strategies.

Practical implications

This research provides valuable insights for the literature on gamification and family business and offers practical guidance for family business owners seeking to introduce a tailored value proposition adapted to their unique organizational needs and challenges.

Originality/value

A novel approach is proposed which, through the integration of gamification strategies with family business dynamics, explores the unique challenges and opportunities that arise within this context. By focusing specifically on family businesses, this study highlights how generational differences, ownership structures and cultural resistance can impact the successful implementation of gamification.
Technology foresight in Indonesia: developing scenarios to determine electrical vehicle research priority for future innovation
Authors: Mahmud Jaizuluddin , Hastuti Pudji , Rafif Muhammad Fauzan , Panggabean Lambas Parlaungan , Santoso Irawan , Sarjono  , Zubair Manifas , Purnama Rizki Arizal , Saputra Andika Dwi , Shafira Yosa Permata , Sonia Angy
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine research areas that are most favorable in supporting the development and manufacturing of electric vehicle (EV) components locally in Indonesia for 2025–2035. Therefore, will provide direction for the formulation of the related government policies and programs. Consequently, an EV technology research priority must be identified.

Design/methodology/approach

A technology foresight (TF) procedure which consists of a STEEPV analysis, followed by scenarios development and expert elicitation techniques, was conducted to determine an EV technology research priority that may direct future specific local component innovations, and therefore businesses.

Findings

The results of this study indicate that research in a range of EV battery technologies, technologies relating to a variety of key components (to increase local content) and autonomous systems were important to support the local development and manufacturing of EV components in Indonesia.

Research limitations/implications

In this study, the scenarios development process was conducted based on selected available experts, mostly internally from BRIN. Some biased opinions may be present.

Originality/value

There have not been any TF studies regarding the development of EV technology research priority in Indonesia.
Participatory analysis of disaster risk creation in Brazilian coastal cities: bridging remote sensing and citizen generated data
Authors: de Paula Aloísio Lélis , Marchezini Victor , Mendes Tatiana Sussel Gonçalves
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This paper aimed to develop a participatory methodology to analyze the disaster risk creation in coastal cities, based on an approach that combines social, urban, environmental and disaster risk elements.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology uses some aspects of three theoretical approaches in a complementary way: i) the Pressure and Release (PAR) framework for the identification of dynamic pressures that contribute to disaster risk creation; ii) the application of Drivers, Pressure, State, Impact, Response (DPSIR) framework to analyze environmental dimensions; and iii) urban analysis, applying the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) tool to classify urban processes. The methodology combined the use of satellite remote sensing data to analyze the urban sprawl and citizen science methods to collect social and environmental data, using the case study of the watershed of the Juqueriquerê River in the coastal city of Caraguatatuba, Brazil. The pilot project was part of a local university extension project of the undergraduate course on Architecture and Urban Planning and also engaged residents and city hall representatives.

Findings

The satellite remote sense data analysis indicated a continuous urban sprawl between 1985 and 2020, especially in the south of the Juqueriquerê watershed, reducing urban drainage and increasing the extension and water depth of urban flooding and riverine floods. Using citizen science methods, undergraduates identified settlements with limited economic resources to elevate houses and a lack of infrastructure to promote a resilient coastal city. After identifying the dynamic pressures that contribute to disaster risk creation and the weaknesses and strengths of a resilient city, undergraduate students proposed urban planning interventions and gray and green infrastructure projects to mitigate disaster risks.

Social implications

The paper identifies urban sprawl in disaster-prone areas as one of the risk factors contributing to disaster. It also comprehensively analyzes differences between different zones in the Juqueriqere River, which will be useful for policy-making.

Originality/value

The method presented an interdisciplinary approach that used satellite remote sensing data and citizen science techniques to analyze disaster risks in coastal cities. The multidimensional approach used to evaluate risks is useful and can be replicated in other similar studies to gain a more comprehensive understanding of disaster risks.
Consensus model for probabilistic linguistic multi-attribute group decision-making based on incomplete social trust networks
Authors: Kang Kaiying , Xie Jialiang , Liu Xiaohui , Qiu Jianxiang
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Experts may adjust their assessments through communication and mutual influence, and this dynamic evolution relies on the spread of internal trust relationships. Due to differences in educational backgrounds and knowledge experiences, trust relationships among experts are often incomplete. To address such issues and reduce decision biases, this paper proposes a probabilistic linguistic multi-attribute group decision consensus model based on an incomplete social trust network (InSTN).

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, we first define the new trust propagation operators based on the operations of Probability Language Term Set (PLTS) with algebraic t-conorm and t-norm, which are combined with trust aggregation operators to estimate InSTN. The adjustment coefficients are then determined through trust relations to quantify their impact on expert evaluation. Finally, the particle swarm algorithm (PSO) is used to optimize the expert evaluation to meet the consensus threshold.

Findings

This study demonstrates the feasibility of the method through the selection of treatment plans for complex cases. The proposed consensus model exhibits greater robustness and effectiveness compared to traditional methods, mainly due to the effective regulation of trust relations in the decision-making process, which reduces decision bias and inconsistencies.

Originality/value

This paper introduces a novel probabilistic linguistic multi-attribute swarm decision consensus model based on an InSTN. It proposes a redefined trust propagation and aggregation approach to estimate the InSTN. Moreover, the computational efficiency and decision consensus accuracy of the proposed model are enhanced by using PSO optimization.
The development of the European Union auditing research over the past decade: a systematic literature review and future research opportunities
Authors: Hassan Mohammed Ibrahem Ali , Borbély Katalin , Tóth Árpád
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to provide a systematic review of research development on auditing in the European Union over the past decade and suggest future research directions.

Design/methodology/approach

Following the PRISMA protocol, the authors systematically reviewed the relevant literature and conducted a qualitative content analysis of 107 studies on auditing in the European Union published between 2012 and 2023.

Findings

The results indicate increased auditing literature in the European Union from 2012 to August 2023. Around 40% of the papers were focused on six nations: Germany, Spain, Italy, the UK, Sweden and France. Additionally, 35.5% of papers have been published in three major journals: Accounting in Europe, International Journal of Auditing and the European Accounting Review. Moreover, 82.24% of papers used quantitative methods, with a few using qualitative or mixed methods. Also, most of the studies in the sample endorsed the European Union’s auditing reforms, which included implementing a cap on nonaudit fees and enhancing the independence of audit committees. Contrary to this viewpoint, multiple studies have expressed disagreement with enforcing a total prohibition on nonaudit services, as certain services can enhance auditing quality. Similarly, other studies have contested the necessity of mandatory auditor rotation every 10 years, citing the significant additional expenses associated with this practice. Finally, further studies supported the European Union’s decision to make the joint audit voluntary, as it is related to high audit fees and low audit quality.

Research limitations/implications

The limitations of this research primarily stem from the authors’ choices in selecting the database and defining the criteria for searching the studied papers.

Practical implications

This paper offers valuable insights into the future research prospects in the European Union’s auditing field. Hence, this analysis can be helpful for researchers and practitioners in developing this field based on future research recommendations and the identified themes.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper is the first study to systematically review the developments of the European Union auditing literature over the past decade.
Intention to adopt mobile payment during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Ali Omar , Zaidi Syed Faizan Hussain , Thanasi-Boçe Marsela
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The main purpose of this research study is to investigate and examine the factors that might influence the intention to adopt and use mobile payment and their relationships during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

This research study used both mobile payment adoption literature, The Technology Adoption Model and Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology, to propose a conceptual framework for mobile payment adoption. Quantitative method is used in which 306 participants responded to an online survey to validate the proposed conceptual framework.

Findings

The introduced integrated model embraced perceived risk, transaction transparency, mobile payment usefulness, social influence, performance expectation as independent variables and usage continuation intention to adopt mobile payment as the dependent variable. The results from data analysis have statistically revealed significant relationships and a positive impact of perceived risk, mobile payment usefulness, social influence and performance expectation. Also, the results identified a negative impact for the transaction transparency factor. As this research study is conducted at a later stage of the COVID-19 pandemic, it adds value to the existing literature by providing insights to business managers on the factors influencing mobile payment usage and other implications related to increasing the market potential for businesses in the new normality of the coronavirus pandemic.

Originality/value

This paper offers a combination conceptual framework of mobile payment adoption based on a literature review on mobile payment adoption from information systems perspective. It adapts integrated model to establish a more comprehensive innovation adoption framework for mobile payment.
Remarkable lives – Victoria Claire in conversation with Robert Hurst
Authors: Claire Victoria , Hurst Robert
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to share Victoria Clare’s story.

Design/methodology/approach

Victoria wrote a biography of her experiences. Robert then asked a series of questions from the perspective of a mental health academic.

Findings

Victoria shared stories from her life, and how her experiences have shaped her life and herself.

Research limitations/implications

Narratives such as this give us an overview of only a single person’s experiences. However, they allow the person with lived experience to explore their story in depth.

Practical implications

What Victoria has written will give readers an insight into her life and experiences.

Social implications

There is so much to learn from a story like Victoria’s, especially in her approach to creativity.

Originality/value

This is Victoria’s own unique story. The value of this is apparent upon reading it.
Unlocking the relationship between authentic leadership and organizational citizenship behavior: the key roles of organizational support and identification
Authors: Jun Kiho , Hu Zhehua , Lee Joonghak
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to identify the intermediate psychological mechanism – organizational identification – that links authentic leadership with follower’s organizational citizenship behavior (OCB). Moreover, it examines the moderating role of perceived organizational support (POS) in the relationship between authentic leadership and organizational identification.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a cross-sectional research design involving 356 employees from diverse corporations in South Korea. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire to measure perception of authentic leadership, organizational identification, POS and OCB.

Findings

The results indicate that organizational identification significantly mediates the relationship between the perception of authentic leadership and follower’s OCB. Furthermore, POS acts as a moderating variable, strengthening the relationship between authentic leadership and organizational identification. Specifically, followers who perceive strong support from their organization are more likely to develop a robust sense of organizational identification under authentic leadership, which in turn, enhances their OCB.

Originality/value

This study offers a novel integration of social identity theory and organizational support theory to examine how authentic leadership influences follower’s OCB. It is among the first to introduce organizational identification as an intermediary in this context and to investigate the moderating effect of POS. The findings provide valuable insights for managers aiming to cultivate a workplace culture that fosters organizational identification and citizenship behaviors, thereby enhancing organizational effectiveness. Future research directions are also highlighted.