bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Accuracy and Safety of LabTest Checker (LTC-AI)
Authors: Szumilas Dawid , Ochmann Anna , Zięba Katarzyna A. , Bartoszewicz Bartłomiej , Kubrak Anna , Makuch Sebastian , Agrawal Siddarth , Mazur Grzegorz , Chudek Jerzy
Published: September 2023

Background

In recent years, the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare is progressively transforming medical fields, with Clinical Decision Support Systems (CDSS) as a notable application. Laboratory tests are vital for accurate diagnoses, but their increasing reliance presents challenges. The need for effective strategies for managing laboratory test interpretation is evident from the millions of monthly searches on test results’ significance. The potential role of CDSS in laboratory diagnostics gains significance, however, more research needs to explore this area.

Objective

The primary objective of our study was to assess the accuracy and safety of LabTest Checker (LTC), a CDSS designed to support medical diagnoses by analyzing both laboratory test results and patients’ medical histories

Methods

This cohort study embraced a prospective data collection approach. A total of 101 patients were enrolled, aged 18 and above, in stable condition, requiring comprehensive diagnosis. A panel of blood laboratory tests was conducted for each participant. Participants utilized LabTest Checker for test result interpretation. Accuracy and safety of the tool were assessed by comparing AI-generated suggestions to experienced doctor (consultant) recommendations, considered the gold standard.

Results

The system achieved a 74.3% accuracy and 100% sensitivity for emergency safety and 92.3% sensitivity for urgent cases. It potentially reduced unnecessary medical visits by 41.6% and achieved an 82.9% accuracy in identifying underlying pathologies.

Conclusion

This study underscores the transformative potential of AI-based CDSS in laboratory diagnostics, contributing to enhanced patient care, efficient healthcare systems, and improved medical outcomes. LabTest Checker’s performance evaluation highlights the advancements in AI’s role in laboratory medicine.
Dendrites support formation and reactivation of sequential memories through Hebbian plasticity
Authors: Quaresima Alessio , Fitz Hartmut , Duarte Renato , Hagoort Peter , Petersson Karl Magnus
Published: September 2023

Storage and retrieval of sequences require memory that is sensitive to the temporal order of features. For example, in human language, words that are stored in long-term memory are retrieved based on the order of phonemes. It is currently unknown whether Hebbian learning supports the formation of memories that are structured in time. We investigated whether word-like memories can emerge in a network of neurons with dendritic structures. Dendrites provide neuronal processing memory on the order of 100 ms and have been implicated in structured memory formation. We compared a network of neurons with dendrites and two networks of point neurons that have previously been shown to acquire stable long-term memories and process sequential information. The networks were equipped with voltage-based, spike-timing dependent plasticity (STDP) and were homeostatically balanced with inhibitory STDP. In the learning phase, networks were exposed to phoneme sequences and word labels, which led to the formation of overlapping cell assemblies. In the retrieval phase, networks only received phoneme sequences as input, and we measured the firing activity of the corresponding word populations. The dendritic network correctly reactivated the word populations with a success rate of 80%, including words composed of the same phonemes in a different order. The networks of point neurons reactivated only words that contained phonemes that were unique to these words and confused words with shared phonemes (success rate below 20%). These results suggest that the slow timescale and non-linearity of dendritic depolarization allowed neurons to establish connections between neural groups that were sensitive to serial order. Inhibitory STDP prevented the potentiation of connections between unrelated neural populations during learning. During retrieval, it maintained the dendrites hyperpolarized and limited the reactivation of incorrect cell assemblies. Thus, the addition of dendrites enables the encoding of temporal relations into associative memories.
A synthetic Notch (synNotch) system linking intratumoral immune-cancer cell communication to a synthetic blood biomarker assay
Authors: Fu YangHao , Wang TianDuo , Ronald John A.
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Cellular immunotherapy has greatly improved cancer treatment in recent years. For instance, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy has been proven highly effective in treating hematological malignancies, and many CAR cell designs are being explored for solid tumors. However, many questions remain why responses differ across patients and some tumor types are resistant. Improved and relatively inexpensive ways to monitor these cells could provide some answers. Clinically, blood tests are regularly used to monitor these therapies, but blood signals often do not reflect the activity of immune cells within the tumor(s). Here, using the synthetic Notch (synNotch) receptor that tethers antigen binding to customized transgene expression, we linked intratumoral immune-cancer cell communication to a simple secreted reporter blood test. Specifically, we engineered immune cells with a CD19-targeted synNotch receptor and demonstrate that binding to CD19 on cancer cells in vivo resulted in the production of secreted embryonic alkaline phosphatase (SEAP) at levels that are readily detected in the blood.

Methods and Results

Jurkat T cells were engineered via sequential lentiviral transduction of two components: an anti-CD19 synNotch receptor and asynNotchresponse element encoding SEAP. Co-culture of engineered cells with CD19+, but not CD19-, Nalm6 cells, resulted in significantly elevated SEAP in media. Nod-scid-gamma (NSG) mice were subcutaneously injected with either CD19+or CD19-Nalm6 cells. Intratumoral injection of engineered T cells (1x107) resulted significantly elevated blood SEAP activity in mice bearing CD19+tumors (n=7), but not CD19-tumors (n=5).

Discussion

Our synNotch reporter system allows for the monitoring of antigen-dependent intratumoral immune-cancer cell interactions through a simple and convenient blood test. Continued development of this system for different target antigens of interest should provide a broadly applicable platform for improved monitoring of many cell-based immunotherapies during their initial development and clinical translation, ultimately improving our understanding of design considerations and patient-specific responses.
Microdroplet-enabled high-throughput cultivation of vaginal bacteria using cervicovaginal fluids
Authors: Jackman Corine M. , Tan James Y. , Lin Xiaoxia Nina
Published: September 2023

The human vaginal microbiome (HVM) is closely associated with the health of the host. In particular, bacterial vaginosis, a condition where vaginal lactobacilli are reduced dramatically by an overgrowth of various other bacteria, has been linked to increased risk of sexually transmitted infectious diseases, including HIV, and preterm birth. Recent culture-independent studies leveraging next-generation sequencing technology have revealed that the HVM composition differs between women and changes over time. However, questions remain as to the underlying mechanisms and culture-dependent studies are needed for further elucidation of the HVM’s genotype-phenotype relationships and system-level propertiesin vivo. In this work, we have adapted a previously developed microdroplet-based high-throughput cultivation platform for the investigation of vaginal bacteria using the cervicovaginal fluid (CVF) as cultivation medium. Using undiluted CVF collected with Softdiscs discs, we observed the growth ofL. inersin microdroplets containing CVF pooled from samples with a high prevalence ofL. crispatus. Although demonstrated withL. iners, this work establishes a new framework for culturing microorganisms under clinically-relevant conditionsex vivousing minute volumes of host fluids; it can be further extended and adapted for addressing numerous questions about the HVM and other complex microbiomes.
Nucleolar dynamics are determined by the ordered assembly of the ribosome
Authors: Sheu-Gruttadauria Jessica , Yan Xiaowei , Stuurman Nico , Vale Ronald D. , Floor Stephen N.
Published: September 2023

Ribosome biogenesis occurs in the nucleolus, a nuclear biomolecular condensate that exhibits dynamic biophysical properties thought to be important for function. However, the relationship between ribosome assembly and nucleolar dynamics is incompletely understood. Here, we present a platform forhigh-throughput fluorescence recoveryafterphotobleaching (HiT-FRAP), which we use to screen hundreds of genes for their impact on dynamics of the nucleolar scaffold nucleophosmin (NPM1). We find that scaffold dynamics and nucleolar morphology respond to disruptions in key stages of ribosome biogenesis. Accumulation of early ribosomal intermediates leads to nucleolar rigidification while late intermediates lead to increased fluidity. We map these biophysical changes to specific ribosomal intermediates and their affinity for NPM1. We also discover that disrupting mRNA processing impacts nucleolar dynamics and ribosome biogenesis. This work mechanistically ties ribosome assembly to the biophysical features of the nucleolus and enables study of how dynamics relate to function across other biomolecular condensates.

Highlights

High-ThroughputFluorescenceRecoveryAfterPhotobleaching (HiT-FRAP) platform discovers factors that govern macromolecular dynamics of the nucleolar scaffold NPM1

NPM1 dynamics and nucleolar morphology are determined by specific ribosomal intermediates in the nucleolus

Mutation of interfaces in NPM1 that mediate ribosome interactions tunes nucleolar dynamics

Disruption of mRNA processing pathways leads to accumulation of early rRNA precursors in the nucleolus and rigidification
Cell autonomous polarization by the planar cell polarity signaling pathway
Authors: Weiner Alexis T , Nissen Silas Boye , Suyama Kaye , Cho Bomsoo , Pierre-Louis Gandhy , Axelrod Jeffrey D
Published: September 2023

Planar Cell Polarity (PCP) signaling polarizes epithelial cells in a plane orthogonal to their apical-basal axis. A core PCP signaling module segregates two distinct molecular subcomplexes to opposite sides of cells and coordinates the direction of polarization between neighboring cells. Homodimers of the atypical cadherin Flamingo are thought to scaffold these subcomplexes and are required for intercellular polarity signaling. Feedback is required for polarization, but whether feedback requires intercellular and/or intracellular pathways is unknown, and traditional genetic tools have limited utility in dissecting these mechanisms. Using novel tools, we show that cells lacking Flamingo, or bearing a homodimerization-deficient Flamingo, do polarize, indicating that functional PCP subcomplexes form and segregate cell-autonomously. We identify feedback pathways and propose a competitive binding-based asymmetry amplifying mechanism that each operate cell-autonomously. The intrinsic logic of PCP signaling is therefore more similar to that in single cell polarizing systems than was previously recognized.
A green-fluorescent siderophore protects bacterial communities from UV damage
Authors: Özkaya Özhan , Kramer Jos , Wechsler Tobias , Kümmerli Rolf
Published: September 2023

Sunlight enables virtually all life on earth, but also entails harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation inducing DNA damage. In response to UV stress, natural selection has favored both curative and preventive measures such as DNA repair mechanisms and UV-absorbing pigments. While UV protection by pigments is well documented in plants, animals and fungi, little is known about their protective role in bacteria. Here, we combine batch-culture and microscopy experiments to show that the siderophore pyoverdine, a fluorescent pigment produced by the opportunistic pathogenPseudomonas aeruginosaoffers high-level protection against UV radiation. Our results reveal that bacteria up-regulate pyoverdine production following UV exposure, seemingly as part of a general stress response. We further found that pyoverdine cannot curatively alleviate UV-damage but protects cells preventively and collectively from oncoming UV exposures through its accumulation in the environment. Altogether, our results reveal a new and non-canonical function of this iron-scavenging molecule, demonstrating that pyoverdine acts as a public sunscreen protecting bacterial populations from UV damage. Given that many bacteria produce pigments, such protection might be widespread in species colonizing habitats exposed to UV radiation.
Identification of a new gregarine parasite in mass mortality events of freshwater pearl mussels (Margaritifera margaritifera) in Sweden
Authors: Alfjorden Anders , Brännström Ioana Onut , Wengström Niklas , Kristmundsson Arni , Jamy Mahwash , Persson David , Burki Fabien
Published: September 2023

Freshwater bivalves play key ecological roles in lakes and rivers, largely contributing to healthy ecosystems. The freshwater pearl mussel,Margaritifera margaritifera,is found in Europe and on the East coast of North America. Once common in oxygenated streams,M. margaritiferais rapidly declining, and consequently assessed as a threatened species worldwide. Deterioration of water quality has been considered the main factors for the mass mortality events affecting this species. Yet, the role of parasitic infections has not been investigated. Here, we report the discovery of three novel protist lineages found in Swedish populations ofM. margaritiferabelonging to one of the terrestrial groups of gregarines (Eugregarinorida, Apicomplexa). These lineages are closely related–but clearly separated– from the tadpole parasiteNematopsis temporariae. In one lineage, which is specifically associated with mortality events ofM. margaritifera,we found using microscopy andin situhybridization cysts in the gills and other organs of diseased individual, containing single vermiform zoites. This represents the first report of a parasitic infection inM. margaritiferathat may be linked to the decline of this mussel species. We propose a tentative life cycle with distribution of different developmental forms and potential exit from the host into the environment.
CRISPR-Cas inhibits plasmid transfer and immunizes bacteria against antibiotic resistance acquisition in manure
Authors: Upreti Chahat , Kumar Pranav , Durso Lisa M. , Palmer Kelli L.
Published: September 2023

The horizontal transfer of antibiotic resistance genes among bacteria is a pressing global issue. The bacterial defense system CRISPR-Cas acts as a barrier to the spread of antibiotic resistance plasmids, and CRISPR-Cas-based antimicrobials can be effective to selectively deplete antibiotic-resistant bacteria. While significant surveillance efforts monitor the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the clinical context, a major, often overlooked aspect of the issue is resistance emergence in agriculture. Farm animals are commonly treated with antibiotics, and antibiotic resistance in agriculture is on the rise. Yet, CRISPR-Cas efficacy has not been investigated in this setting. Here, we evaluate the prevalence of CRISPR-Cas in agriculturalEnterococcus faecalisstrains and its anti-plasmid efficacy in an agricultural niche – manure. Analyzing 1,986E. faecalisgenomes from human and animal hosts, we show that the prevalence of CRISPR-Cas subtypes is similar between clinical and agriculturalE. faecalisstrains. Using plasmid conjugation assays, we found that CRISPR-Cas is a significant barrier against resistance plasmid transfer in manure. Finally, we used a CRISPR-based antimicrobial approach to cure resistantE. faecalisof erythromycin resistance, but this was limited by delivery efficiency of the CRISPR antimicrobial in manure. However, immunization of bacteria against resistance gene acquisition in manure was highly effective. Together, our results show thatE. faecalisCRISPR-Cas is prevalent and effective in an agricultural setting and has the potential to be utilized for depleting antibiotic-resistant populations. Our work has broad implications for tackling antibiotic resistance in the increasingly relevant agricultural setting, in line with a One Health approach.

Importance

Antibiotic resistance is a growing global health crisis in human and veterinary medicine. Previous work has shown technologies based on CRISPR-Cas - a bacterial defense system - to be effective in tackling antibiotic resistance. Here we test if CRISPR-Cas is present and effective in agricultural niches, specifically in the ubiquitously present bacterium –Enterococcus faecalis. We show that CRISPR-Cas is both prevalent and functional in manure, and has the potential to be used to specifically kill bacteria carrying antibiotic resistance genes. This study demonstrates the utility of CRISPR-Cas based strategies for control of antibiotic resistance in agricultural settings.
The oxytocin-modulated brain circuit that synchronizes heart rate with breathing
Authors: Buron Julie , Linossier Ambre , Gestreau Christian , Schaller Fabienne , Tyzio Roman , Felix Marie-Solenne , Matarazzo Valéry , Thoby-Brisson Muriel , Muscatelli Françoise , Menuet Clément
Published: September 2023

The variation in heart rate in phase with breathing, called respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA), is cardio-protective1,2. RSA amplitude provides an index of health and physical fitness used both clinically, and by the broader population using “smart” watches. Relaxation and positive socio-emotional states can amplify RSA3, yet the underlying mechanism remains largely unknown. Here, we identify a hypothalamus-brainstem neuronal network through which the neuromodulator oxytocin (OT), known for its relaxing and prosocial effects4, amplifies RSA during calming behavior. OT neurons from the caudal paraventricular nucleus in the hypothalamus were found to regulate the activity of a subgroup of inhibitory neurons in the pre-Bötzinger complex, the brainstem neuronal group that generates the inspiratory rhythm. Specifically, OT amplifies the inspiratory glycinergic input from pre-Bötzinger complex neurons to cardiac-innervating parasympathetic neurons in the nucleus ambiguus. This leads to amplified respiratory modulation of parasympathetic activity to the heart, thereby amplifying RSA. Behaviorally, OT neurons participate in the restoration of RSA amplitude during recovery from stress. This work shows how a central action of OT induces a physiologically beneficial regulation of cardiac activity during a calming behavior, providing a foundation for therapeutic strategies for anxiety disorders and coping with stress. Furthermore, it identifies a phenotypic signature of a subpopulation of neurons controlling RSA, namely pre-Bötzinger complex neurons expressing the OT-receptor, enabling the specific modulation of RSA amplitude to resolve its physiological and psychological functions.
Deciphering the Genomes of Motility-Deficient Mutants ofVibrio alginolyticus138-2
Authors: Uesaka Kazuma , Inaba Keita , Nishioka Noriko , Kojima Seiji , Homma Michio , Ihara Kunio
Published: September 2023

The motility ofVibriospecies plays a pivotal role in their survival and adaptation to diverse environments, and is intricately associated with pathogenicity in both humans and aquatic animals. Numerous mutant strains ofVibrio alginolyticushave been generated using UV or EMS mutagenesis to probe flagellar motility using molecular genetic approaches. Identifying these mutations promises to yield valuable insights into motility at the protein structural physiology level. In this study, we conducted an exhaustive analysis of the genomic structures of laboratoryVibriostrains that served as reference specimens. This assemblage notably encompassed the progenitor strainV. alginolyticus138-2, alongside two strains displaying deficiencies in the lateral flagella (VIO5 and YM4) and one evincing a deficiency in the polar flagella (YM19). Subsequently, we meticulously ascertained the specific mutation sites within the 18 motility-deficient strains whose parents could be traced back to VIO5 or YM4. The identified mutations were conclusively localized within well-established flagella-related genes, providing a coherent rationale for the phenotypic traits exhibited by each motility-deficient mutant. In addition to these motility-related mutations, an average of 20 additional mutations was detected in each mutant strain. Genomic analysis of many mutants is a highly effective tool for comprehensively identifying genes related to specific phenotypes using forward genetics.

IMPORTANCE

Bacteria of theVibriospecies rely on their motility for survival, adaptation, and pathogenicity. Identifying specific changes in the genome of non-motile mutants can help understand the genes that regulate flagella and motility in these bacteria. Herin, we sequenced the genome ofVibrio alginolyticus138-2 strain and other motility defective strains and identified most of the mutations to be within genes encoding flagella. Additionally, we also provide a coherent rationale for the motility deficiency in these mutants. We believe that this study could provide a framework for genome sequencing-based methods for studying molecular functions in bacteria.
Exploration of ChatGPT application in diabetes education: a multi-dataset, multi-reviewer study
Authors: Ying Zhen , Fan Yujuan , Lu Jiaping , Wang Ping , Zou Lin , Tang Qi , Chen Yizhou , Li Xiaoying , Chen Ying
Published: September 2023

Aims

Large language models (LLMs), exemplified by ChatGPT have recently emerged as potential solutions to challenges of traditional diabetes education. This study aimed to explore the feasibility and utility of ChatGPT application in diabetes education.

Methods

We conducted a multi-dataset, multi-reviewer study. In the retrospective dataset evaluation, 85 questions covering seven aspects of diabetes education were collected. Three physicians evaluate the ChatGPT responses for reproducibility, relevance, correctness, helpfulness, and safety, while twelve laypersons evaluated the readability, helpfulness, and trustworthiness of the responses. In the real-world dataset evaluation, three individuals with type 2 diabetes (a newly diagnosed patient, a patient with diabetes for 20 years and on oral anti-diabetic medications, and a patient with diabetes for 40 years and on insulin therapy) posed their questions. The helpfulness and trustworthiness of responses from ChatGPT and physicians were assessed.

Results

In the retrospective dataset evaluation, physicians rated ChatGPT responses for relevance (5.98/6.00), correctness (5.69/6.00), helpfulness (5.75/6.00), and safety (5.95/6.00), while the ratings by laypersons for readability, helpfulness, and trustworthiness were 5.21/6.00, 5.02/6.00, and 4.99/6.00, respectively. In the real-world dataset evaluation, ChatGPT responses received lower ratings compared to physicians’ responses (helpfulness: 4.18vs.4.91, P <0.001; trustworthiness: 4.80vs.5.20, P = 0.042). However, when carefully crafted prompts were utilized, the ratings of ChatGPT responses were comparable to those of physicians.

Conclusions

The results show that the application of ChatGPT in addressing typical diabetes education questions is feasible, and carefully crafted prompts are crucial for satisfactory ChatGPT performance in real-world personalized diabetes education.

What’s new?

This is the first study covering evaluations by doctors, laypersons and patients to explore ChatGPT application in diabetes education. This multi-reviewer evaluation approach provided a multidimensional understanding of ChatGPT’s capabilities and laid the foundation for subsequent clinical evaluations.

This study suggested that the application of ChatGPT in addressing typical diabetes education questions is feasible, and carefully crafted prompts are crucial for satisfactory ChatGPT performance in real-world personalized diabetes education.

Results of layperson evaluation revealed that human factors could result in disparities of evaluations. Further concern of trust and ethical issues in AI development are necessary.
Desmearing small-angle scattering data by central moment expansions
Authors: Huang Guan-Rong , Tung Chi-Huan , Chen Meng-Zhe , Porcar Lionel , Shinohara Yuya , Wildgruber Christoph U. , Do Changwoo , Chen Wei-Ren
Published: September 2023

This article proposes a robust method for desmearing 1D small-angle scattering (SAS) intensity profiles. Using the central-moment-expansion technique, smearing in SAS intensity profiles is achieved in a model-free manner, eliminating the need for presumptive input during the desmearing. This innovative approach enables data analysis of SAS data without the resolution being convoluted with the structural model, thereby facilitating faster implementation and performance of fitting functions directly from the scattering models.
A phenomenological model of the X-ray pulse statistics of a high-repetition-rate X-ray free-electron laser
Authors: Guest Trey W. , Bean Richard , Kammering Raimund , van Riessen Grant , Mancuso Adrian P. , Abbey Brian
Published: September 2023

Many coherent imaging applications that utilize ultrafast X-ray free-electron laser (XFEL) radiation pulses are highly sensitive to fluctuations in the shot-to-shot statistical properties of the source. Understanding and modelling these fluctuations are key to successful experiment planning and necessary to maximize the potential of XFEL facilities. Current models of XFEL radiation and their shot-to-shot statistics are based on theoretical descriptions of the source and are limited in their ability to capture the shot-to-shot intensity fluctuations observed experimentally. The lack of accurate temporal statistics in simulations that utilize these models is a significant barrier to optimizing and interpreting data from XFEL coherent diffraction experiments. Presented here is a phenomenological model of XFEL radiation that is capable of capturing the shot-to-shot statistics observed experimentally using a simple time-dependent approximation of the pulse wavefront. The model is applied to reproduce non-stationary shot-to-shot intensity fluctuations observed at the European XFEL, whilst accurately representing the single-shot properties predicted by FEL theory. Compared with previous models, this approach provides a simple, robust and computationally inexpensive method of generating statistical representations of XFEL radiation.
Does investor's sentiment affect industries' return? – A case of selected Indian industries
Authors: Rohilla Amit , Tripathi Neeta , Bhandari Varun
Published: September 2023

Purpose

In a first of its kind, this paper tries to explore the long-run relationship between investors' sentiment and selected industries' returns over the period January 2010 to December 2021.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses 23 market and macroeconomic proxies to measure investor sentiment. Principal component analysis has been used to create sentiment sub-indices that represent investor sentiment. The autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model and other sophisticated econometric techniques such as the unit root test, the cumulative sum (CUSUM) stability test, regression, etc. have been used to achieve the objectives of the study.

Findings

The authors find that there is a significant relationship between sentiment sub-indices and industries' returns over the period of study. Market and economic variables, market ratios, advance-decline ratio, high-low index, price-to-book value ratio and liquidity in the economy are some of the significant sub-indices explaining industries' returns.

Research limitations/implications

The study has relevant implications for retail investors, policy-makers and other decision-makers in the Indian stock market. Results are helpful for the investor in improving their decision-making and identifying those sentiment sub-indices and the variables therein that are relevant in explaining the return of a particular industry.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the existing literature by exploring the relationship between sentiment and industries' returns in the Indian stock market and by identifying relevant sentiment sub-indices. Also, the study supports the investors' irrationality, which arises due to a plethora of behavioral biases as enshrined in classical finance.
Evolving shared value, sustainability and the leadership challenge: Grootbos Private Nature Reserve
Authors: White Lyal , Fuhrmann Pamela , Crichton Ruth
Published: September 2023

Learning outcomes

The learning outcomes of this study are to assess the shared value model and elaborate on new multi-stakeholder approaches to business, where the stakeholders include the founders, investors, partners, employees, clients and the surrounding community; to consider the synergies between community development, environmental stewardship, sustainable business practices and the long-term health of organisations and communities, considering these as the new fundamentals of business; to examine the interconnectedness of vision, strategy, purpose and leadership in creating and evolving the shared value model; to explore the relationship between shared value practices and collective well-being, and a specific reference to nurturing transformative experiences through nature, personal development and community upliftment is made; and to assess Grootbos’ ability to translate their purpose and value proposition into a strategy and sustainable vision with a possibility of Grootbos achieving global impact through its evolving model, beyond the founder.

Case overview/synopsis

This case study explores the evolution of Grootbos Private Nature Reserve and Foundation, a luxury hospitality lodge and award-winning ecotourism destination, from humble beginnings in the Western Cape of South Africa to a global example of conservation, community, commerce sustainability and transformative experiences. The establishing of Grootbos and its growth and widespread recognition can be attributed to the vision and inspirational leadership of its founder, Michael Lutzeyer. Although much success has been achieved in conservation, community upliftment and individual development of community members within their region, Lutzeyer’s and ultimately, Grootbos’ vision extended well beyond South Africa and aspired to elevate their floral kingdom and model of development and conservation to a global platform of awareness. Although a shared value vision and strategy had transformed the business, placing Grootbos as a leader in transforming their industry and sparking an evolution in the shared value model itself through the interjection of transformative experiences, the larger question remained: How can Grootbos extend the impact, towards people and planetary well-being, beyond the scope of their individual place-based business and their industry? And in terms of the dilemma Lutzeyer and the management team at Grootbos faced: How will this vision and global ambition continue through succession, beyond Luzeyer’s personal drive at the helm?

Complexity academic level

Experienced leaders within a graduate degree program, executive Master of Business Administration (MBA) or executive education in the areas of leadership development, strategy, shared value and international business.

Supplementary material

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS4: Environmental management.
Ethical leadership, safety climate, and employee health and safety: lessons from the oil and gas industry in Ghana
Authors: Ansong Abraham , Amadu Sharif Shani , Ahomka Yeboah Moses
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine the mediation effect of safety climate (SC) on the relationship between ethical leadership and employee health and safety in the oil and gas downstream sector in Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a quantitative approach (survey) to collect data from 215 pump attendants at the fuel stations in the Accra Metropolis. The authors used PLS structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) to test the research hypotheses in this study.

Findings

The results show that leaders’ adherence to ethical practices had a significant and positive effect on both their employees’ health and safety and SC in the workplace. Furthermore, the ability of leaders to use ethical practices to achieve a healthy and safe work environment was also contingent on the presence of a safe work climate.

Practical implications

This study highlights the need for leaders to pay specific attention to adhering to ethical rules and regulations and also promoting a safe climate in the workplace to guarantee the health and safety of employees.

Originality/value

This study presents a novel contribution to the literature by empirically demonstrating the contingency importance of SC in the quest of leaders leveraging ethical practices to promote the health and safety of employees in the workplace, which has not been discussed by previous studies.
Grappling with polarization on Wikipedia: the case of the biography of Ferdinand E. Marcos
Authors: Luyt Brendan , Sagun-Trajano Karryl
Published: September 2023

Purpose

In this study, the authors look at the case of Ferdinand Marcos, President of the Philippines between 1965 and 1986. Documenting the life and career of Marcos on Wikipedia provides an excellent example of the pitfalls confronting those seeking to address disinformation without first reflecting deeply on the reasons why people subscribe to views deemed outlandish by the intellectual or cultural mainstream.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors sampled the version of the Marcos article on Wikipedia as it existed after the first edit of each year since its inception (2002). This resulted in 22 texts for analysis. Content and thematic analyses were conducted on these texts as well as on the entire body of talk page comments for the article.

Findings

The authors' work suggests that the basic elements of responsible encyclopedic writing have prevailed in the case of Wikipedia's biography of Marcos. However, this is not an unalloyed victory, as issues of polarization remain unaddressed.

Originality/value

Underlying revisionist or distorted claims about Ferdinand Marcos (and other controversial topics) lie very real grievances that give these claims traction for many people. Hence, it is not enough to “just present the facts” to readers. Rather, the authors argue that what is needed is a synthesis of positions that would allow for common ground to be found between them. This could be done in the case of Wikipedia by cultivating editors who are capable and willing to engage with the subject literature in a deeper and richer fashion.
How servitization affects firm performance: the moderating roles of corporate social responsibility and green innovation
Authors: Yang Zichao , Luo Jianqiang , Feng Taiwen , Pan Rongrong
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine how degree of servitization and breadth of servitization affect the firm performance, and the moderating roles of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and green innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

The hypotheses are tested using panel data regression models from 2010 to 2020 based on 10,539 firm-year observations from 2,362 Chinese listed manufacturers.

Findings

Considering the classification of servitization, the results show that both degree and breadth of servitization have positive impacts on firm performance. In addition, CSR strengthens these impacts, while green innovation only strengthens the impact of degree of servitization on firm performance.

Practical implications

This study suggests that manufacturers should obtain greater profits by actively implementing the servitization strategy, and effectively take their social responsibility by achieving value co-creation with stakeholders. Also, they should carry out green innovation, develop green products and provide eco-friendly services.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the servitization literature by deepening the understanding of the value creation effect of services based on the service-oriented logic. Also, this study contributes to the sustainability literature stream by revealing the moderating roles of CSR and green innovation based on the stakeholder theory.
Drones and special libraries in the fifth industrial revolution
Authors: Adewojo Akinade Adebowale , Dunmade Aderinola Ololade , Akanbiemu Adetola Adebisi
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study aims to explore the potential use of drones in special library services, aiming to enhance accessibility, services and reliability. It examines how drones can provide library materials to individuals unable to access traditional services and addresses challenges associated with drone implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study involves a literature review and case studies to analyze the feasibility and benefits of incorporating drones into special libraries. This study also discusses the synergy between drone technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing library operations.

Findings

Drones have the potential to transform special libraries by automating tasks, improving efficiency and expanding outreach. Their application ranges from inventory management and book retrieval to security, surveillance and outreach initiatives. AI-powered drones can provide real-time data on library usage and enhance cost-effectiveness. However, challenges including costs, privacy concerns and regulatory frameworks need to be addressed.

Originality/value

The integration of drones and AI in special library services presents a novel approach to revolutionizing library operations. This study uniquely combines these technologies, emphasizing the importance of proactive consideration of challenges and prospects for successful implementation.
The potentials of plant-based colorants for sustainable textile dyeing industry
Authors: Nambela Lutamyo
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to review the information on the scientific efforts and achievements in sustainable industrial textile applications of natural colourants. Then the paper suggests the ways of improving the industrial textile applications of plant-based colourants.

Design/methodology/approach

The literature on the chemistry, sources and extraction of plant-based natural colourants was reviewed. The reviewed information was analysed and synthesised to provide techniques for selecting sustainable extraction methods, possible sustainable textile applications of natural colourants and the challenges which hinder industrial textile applications of plant-based natural colourants. The ways of overcoming the challenges of the industrial textile applications of plant natural colourants were suggested. Lastly, the current situation of industrial application of natural dyes in textiles is presented.

Findings

Despite the scientific achievement to overcome the challenges of natural colourants for textiles, the global industrial application of natural colourants is still low. Inadequate knowledge of the dyers results into poor performance of the natural dyed textile. The natural dyed textiles are expensive due to the scarcity of raw materials for manufacturing of natural colourants. The selection of suitable extraction, application methods and type of substrate should consider the chemistry of the particular colourant. The society should be educated about the benefits of natural dyed textiles. Cultivation of colourant-bearing plants should be promoted to meet the industrial material demand.

Originality/value

The paper provides a synthesized collection of information about the source, chemistry, extraction, textile application and challenges of plant-based natural colourants. The reviewed information was analysed and synthesised to provide techniques for selecting sustainable extraction methods, possible sustainable textile applications of natural colourants and the challenges which hinder industrial textile applications of plant-based natural colourants. The ways of overcoming the challenges of the industrial textile applications of plant natural colourants were suggested.
What does oppression look like in 2022 notable books?
Authors: Zhao Xiaoying , Khan Misha , Wu Shengtian
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This critical content analysis aims to examine the depiction of oppression in the 2022 Notable Social Studies Trade Books (K-2). From the framework of major types and levels of oppression, this paper sheds light on the rich affordances and problematic representations of oppression.

Design/methodology/approach

From the perspectives of an intersectional approach and the framework of oppression, the authors conducted a critical content analysis of the written texts, illustrations and peritexts of the notable books for young readers.

Findings

Among the 73 picturebooks, 46 (63%) include representations of oppression in the written texts and/or illustrations. Half of these books depict more than one type of oppression. The most frequently represented oppression is racism, followed by sexism. There are limited depictions of homophobia, transphobia, ableism, ageism, antisemitism and Islamophobia. Nine books (20%) only include the representation of oppression in the peritexts.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to anti-oppressive education by offering a theoretical framework of oppression, which emphasizes the interlocking systems of oppression. This framework can help foster a holistic understanding of oppression and dismantle it in a holistic way.

Practical implications

The authors also offer suggestions to help educators curate picturebooks for anti-oppressive social studies education.

Originality/value

This study contributes to anti-oppressive education by offering a theoretical framework of oppression, which emphasizes the interlocking systems of oppression. This framework can help foster a holistic understanding of oppression and dismantle it in a holistic way. The authors also offer suggestions to help educators curate picturebooks for anti-oppressive social studies education.
Data-driven decision-making challenges of local government in Indonesia
Authors: Sayogo Djoko Sigit , Yuli Sri Budi Cantika , Amalia Firda Ayu
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study aims to identify and outline the critical challenges affecting the inclination of executives to use data as the basis for making decisions at a local government level.

Design/methodology/approach

The study conducted in-depth interviews with 21 public officials comprising middle- and top-level executives from 18 agencies and offices at the Bojonegoro Regency, one of Indonesia’s most progressive regencies in pursuing open government and smart cities.

Findings

The findings demonstrate that ensuring a good quality data architecture, nurturing data culture and developing analytics capability are essential in the case of a developing country such as Indonesia. However, insufficient policies and regulations, a nonexistent evaluative framework for data quality, disruptive local tradition and the ingrained autocratic administration represent significant and unique challenges to implementing data-driven decision-making in the local government in Indonesia.

Research limitations/implications

The chosen research approach may result in a need for more generalizability beyond Indonesia, accentuating the necessity for the geographical objects to include other developing countries in future research.

Practical implications

The findings showcase that lack of awareness and acceptance from public officials and the general public of the importance of a data-driven approach; as such, a better understanding of the change in attitudes and mindsets of public officials is invariably one of the critical practical determinants.

Originality/value

The findings signify the importance of creating robust accountability systems and evaluative frameworks that consider the many variables influencing decisions that capture the significance of organizational and local culture.
Expression of laminin332 γ2 at the invasive front is associated with tumor budding and poor prognosis in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Katayama Shiori , Koga Kaori , Fujimoto Masakazu , Matsuzaki Ibu , Nabeshima Kazuki , Imafuku Shinichi , Hamasaki Makoto
Published: September 2023

Laminin332 is a glycoprotein consisting of α3/β3/γ2 chains, of which the γ2 chain (Ln‐γ2) is expressed in tumor cells at the invasive front in many types of malignant tumors. We have previously reported that Ln‐γ2 is associated with tumor invasion of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) in vivo and in vitro. Recently, tumor budding (TB; invasion patterns in small clusters of less than five cancer cells in the stroma at the invasive front) has been reported to be a risk factor for lymph node metastasis in cSCC. Based on these findings, we speculated that expression of Ln‐γ2 is related to TB in cSCC and would be an invasive factor that causes lymph node metastasis. In this study, we investigated the relationship between Ln‐γ2 expression and clinicopathological findings, including TB, in 102 cases of cSCC using immunohistochemistry. The results showed that high expression of Ln‐γ2 at the invasive front correlated with a high TB score. In addition, high Ln‐γ2 expression at the invasive front was also associated with lymphatic invasion, lymph node metastasis, and poor prognosis (death or recurrence), as in TB. Furthermore, we showed a positive association between Ln‐γ2 expression at the invasive front and Yes‐associated protein (YAP) expression in the Hippo pathway. Our results suggest that Ln‐γ2 expression at the invasive front may have a role in TB formation via YAP and contribute to prognosis by causing lymphatic invasion and lymph node metastasis. The expression of Ln‐γ2 would be useful for risk assessment of lymph node metastasis and poor prognosis in routine practice of cSCC.
Influencing factors of coal elastic parameters based on the generalized Gassmann equation: A case study in Yuwang colliery, eastern Yunnan province
Authors: Che Yuyan , Liu Yanhai , Zou Guangui , Jin Chaochao , Gong Fei , Satibekova Sandugash
Published: September 2023

Coal elastic parameters are an important index reflecting the material composition and porosity, which can be used to guide reservoir evaluation and the safe mining of coal and coalbed methane. In this study, coal samples collected from coal seams #2, #3, #7 + 8 and #9 in the Yuwang colliery, eastern Yunnan, were studied, and the influences of organic matter, ash content and porosity on the elastic parameters of coal samples were investigated. The results show that the elastic parameters of coal are negatively correlated with organic matter content and porosity, and positively correlated with ash content. This means that the bulk modulus and primary‐wave velocity of coal decrease with a gradual increase in organic matter content or porosity and increase with a gradual increase in ash content. The main reason for this is that the ash modulus is typically higher than that of coal. When the ash content gradually increases, the contribution of ash to the equivalent modulus of coal increases, whereas the contribution of organic matter and pores decreases. In this study, the primary‐wave velocity of the target coal seam was fitted based on the generalized Gassmann equation. The calculation results were consistent with the observations and the relative error was within 7%. According to the distribution behaviour of elastic parameters, this provides adequate data support for the prediction of gas content in coal mines and ensures safe and green mining of coal resources.