bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A rotational velocity estimate constructed through visuomotor competition updates the fly’s neural compass
Authors: Hulse Brad K. , Stanoev Angel , Turner-Evans Daniel B. , Seelig Johannes D. , Jayaraman Vivek
Published: September 2023

Navigating animals continuously integrate velocity signals to update internal representations of their directional heading and spatial location in the environment. How neural circuits combine sensory and motor information to construct these velocity estimates and how these self-motion signals, in turn, update internal representations that support navigational computations are not well understood. Recent work inDrosophilahas identified a neural circuit that performs angular path integration to compute the fly’s head direction, but the nature of the velocity signal is unknown. Here we identify a pair of neurons necessary for angular path integration that encode the fly’s rotational velocity with high accuracy using both visual optic flow and motor information. This estimate of rotational velocity does not rely on a moment-to-moment integration of sensory and motor information. Rather, when visual and motor signals are congruent, these neurons prioritize motor information over visual information, and when the two signals are in conflict, reciprocal inhibition selects either the motor or visual signal. Together, our results suggest that flies update their head direction representation by constructing an estimate of rotational velocity that relies primarily on motor information and only incorporates optic flow signals in specific sensorimotor contexts, such as when the motor signal is absent.
Design of an effective sgRNA for CRISPR/Cas9 knock-ins in polyploidSynechocystis sp. PCC 6803
Authors: Nares-Rodriguez María Isabel , Karunakaran Esther
Published: September 2023

Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 (Synechocystis) is a highly promising organism for the production of diverse recombinant chemicals, including biofuels. However, conventional genetic engineering inSynechocystisis challenging due to its highly polyploid genome which not only leads to low product yields but also makes the recombinant organism less reliable for use in biomanufacturing. Due to its precision, effectiveness and reliability in a vast array of chassis, CRISPR/Cas9 has the potential of overcoming the drawbacks effected by a polyploid genome. Here we identified and developed an effective sgRNA for the knock-in of nucleotide sequences of varying lengths in the neutral siteslr0168 of polyploidSynechocystisusing CRISPR/Cas9. The gene encoding digeranylgeranylglycerophospholipid reductase fromSulfolobus acidocaldariusand the methyl ketone operon fromSolanum habrochaiteswere chosen as the exemplar nucleotide sequences for incorporation into the chromosome ofSynechocystis. It is demonstrated here that our sgRNA design was effective for both knock-ins and that CRISPR/Cas9 achieves complete mutant segregation after a single step of selection and induction.
Modifications to gene body methylation does not alter gene expression plasticity in a reef-building coral
Authors: Abbott Evelyn , Loockerman Coral , Matz Mikhail
Published: September 2023

As coral reefs continue to decline due to climate change, the role of coral epigenetics (specifically, gene body methylation, GBM) in coral acclimatization warrants investigation. The evidence is currently conflicting. In diverse animal phyla the baseline GBM level is associated with gene function: continuously expressed “housekeeping” genes are typically highly methylated, while inducible context-dependent genes have low or no methylation at all. Some authors report association between GBM and the environment, and interpret this observation as evidence of GBM’s role in acclimatization. Yet, others argue that correlation between GBM change and gene expression change is typically absent or negligible. Here, we used the reef- building coral,Acropora millepora,to test whether environmentally driven changes in GBM are associated with a gene’s ability to respond to environmental changes (plasticity) rather than expression level. We analyzed two cases of modified gene expression plasticity observed in a three-week-long heat acclimatization experiment. The first one was a group of heat-induced genes that failed to revert their expression after the coral was translocated back to the control tank. The second case involved genes that changed the magnitude of their response to the daily temperature fluctuations over the course of the experiment. In both cases we found negligible or no association with GBM change. We conclude that although both gene expression plasticity and GBM can change during acclimatization, there is no direct association between the two. This adds to the increasing volume of evidence that the function of GBM in invertebrates is unrelated to acclimatization on physiological timescales.
Enhancers associated with unstable RNAs are rare in plants
Authors: Mcdonald Bayley R. , Picard Colette , Brabb Ian M. , Savenkova Marina I. , Schmitz Robert J. , Jacobsen Steven E. , Duttke Sascha H.
Published: September 2023

Unstable transcripts have emerged as markers of active enhancers in vertebrates and shown to be involved in many cellular processes and medical disorders. However, their prevalence and role in plants is largely unexplored. Here, we comprehensively captured all actively initiating (“nascent”) transcripts across diverse crops and other plants using capped small (cs)RNA-seq. We discovered that unstable transcripts are rare, unlike in vertebrates, and often originate from promoters. Additionally, many “distal” elements in plants initiate tissue-specific stable transcripts and are likelybone fidepromoters of yet-unannotated genes or non-coding RNAs, cautioning against using genome annotations to infer “enhancers” or transcript stability. To investigate enhancer function, we integrated STARR-seq data. We found that annotated promoters, and other regions that initiate stable transcripts rather than unstable transcripts, function as stronger enhancers in plants. Our findings underscore the blurred line between promoters and enhancers and suggest that cis-regulatory elements encompass diverse structures and mechanisms in eukaryotes.
Matrix selection for the visualization of small molecules and lipids in brain tumors using untargeted MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry imaging
Authors: Lu Tianyao , Freytag Lutz , Narayana Vinod K. , Moore Zachery , Oliver Shannon J. , Valkovic Adam , Nijagal Brunda , Peterson Amanda , de Souza David P. , McConville Malcolm J. , Whittle James R. , Best Sarah A. , Freytag Saskia
Published: September 2023

Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging allows the study of metabolic activity in the tumor microenvironment of brain cancers. The detectable metabolites within these tumors are contingent upon the choice of matrix, deposition technique, and polarity setting. In this study, we compared the performance of three different matrices, two deposition techniques, and use of positive and negative polarity in two different brain cancer types and across two species. Optimal combinations were confirmed by comparative analysis of lipid and small molecule abundance using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry and RNA-sequencing assessing differential metabolites between normal and tumor regions. Our findings indicate that the recrystallized α cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid matrix in positive polarity offered superior performance for both detected metabolites and consistency with other techniques. Beyond these implications for brain cancer, our work establishes a workflow to identify optimal matrices for spatial metabolomics studies.
Development of a scalar-based geometric parameterization approach for the crystal structure landscape of dithienylethene-based crystalline solids
Authors: Mitchell Travis B. , Zhang Xiaotong , Jerozal Ronald T. , Chen Yu-Sheng , Wang SuYin , Benedict Jason B.
Published: September 2023

Dithienylethenes (DTEs) are a promising class of organic photoswitches that can be used to create crystalline solids with properties controlled by light. However, the ability of DTEs to adopt multiple conformations, only one of which is photoactive, complicates the rational design of these materials. Herein, the synthesis and structural characterization of 19 crystalline solids containing a single DTE molecule are described. A novel D–D analysis of the molecular geometries obtained from rotational potential energy surface calculations and the ensemble of experimental structures were used to construct a crystal landscape for DTE. Of the 19 crystal structures, 17 contained photoinactive DTE rotamers and only 2 were photoactive. These results highlight the challenges associated with the design of these materials. Overall, the D–D analysis described herein provides rapid, effective and intuitive means of linking the molecular structure to photoactivity that could be applied more broadly to afford a general strategy for producing photoactive diarylethene-based crystalline solids.
Mobile applications to reduce food waste in supply chains: a systematic literature review
Authors: Hong Jiequan , Jaegler Anicia , Gergaud Olivier
Published: September 2023

Purpose

With the launch of mobile applications to reduce food waste, this study reviews scholarly articles to answer the questions: (1) What research topics are extensively discussed in relation to food waste mobile applications (FWMA)? (2) How do these applications impact food waste and food poverty? (3) At which stage of the supply chain are digital applications employed?

Design/methodology/approach

This paper conducts a systematic literature review of scholarly articles on the topic of mobile applications and food waste to answer three research questions.

Findings

The article provides a definition of mobile applications to reduce food waste. Most published studies on mobile applications are from developed countries. Over half of the applications address procurement and consumption along the supply chain. The applications are categorized by food saving method and used in studies on innovation management, platform relations and performance, the supply chain activities impacted and platform acceptance.

Research limitations/implications

The articles and applications analyzed suggest more quantitative studies. A wider range of cases in diverse cultural settings is needed, as well as analyses of the factors influencing the development, performance and market acceptance of platforms.

Originality/value

This study is the first study to systematically review the relevant scholarly contributions related to mobile applications, an innovative practice that helps reduce food waste. It allows making an initial progress report on the research carried out.
Leader's desire for promotion, workplace anxiety and exploitative leadership: the moderating effect of Machiavellianism
Authors: Huang Jie , Li Yali , Tang Chunyong
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Drawing on the conservation of resources theory, the present research paper examines the moderating role of leaders' Machiavellianism in the relationships between the desire for promotion, workplace anxiety and exploitative leadership.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors collected matched time-lagged data from part-time MBA students and their subordinates. The subordinate questionnaires were paired and coded by the researchers and then directly distributed and instructed to be filled out, which would not be known to the MBA students. The final sample size came to 370 leader-subordinate dyads. The data were analyzed using SPSS 24 and Mplus 7.0.

Findings

Leaders' desire for promotion is positively related to exploitative leadership via workplace anxiety. Furthermore, this mediating effect is significant when Machiavellianism is high, but not when Machiavellianism is low.

Originality/value

For business ethics scholars and practitioners, this study points out that leaders with a desire for promotion can produce workplace anxiety, lead to subordinates' perception of exploitative leadership and how this process varies by key personality trait—Machiavellianism.
Drinking to cope and college grade point average
Authors: Douglass Morgan A. , Colley Madison L. , Tyskiewicz Alexander J. , Prince Mark A.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

College students report high levels of stress, with academic performance serving as a major contributor. The purpose of this study was to examine how drinking to cope with stressors related to student grade point average (i.e., GPA), while testing academic achievement orientations (i.e. mastery or performance) as possible moderators for this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 325 undergraduate college students from a university in the Mountain West of the USA reported on GPA, daily drinking, coping and academic achievement orientations.

Findings

Drinking to cope negatively predicted GPA. Holding a mastery academic achievement orientation was related to higher GPA, whereas a performance academic achievement orientation was related to a more deleterious relationship between drinking to cope and GPA. However, neither orientation (i.e. mastery or performance) moderated the relationship between drinking to cope and GPA.

Originality/value

Regardless of academic achievement orientation, drinking to cope was negatively associated with GPA. The negative relationship between drinking to cope and GPA for those with a performance orientation may suggest that these students drink to cope with academic stressors. Importantly, students who choose to drink alcohol to cope with academic stress may paradoxically experience poorer academic performance. Future research should examine whether teaching a mastery orientation to college students can protect against the deleterious effects of drinking to cope on GPA.
A research for the effectiveness of stitch type and stitch direction on dynamic drape behaviors
Authors: Demir Murat , Balci Kilic Gonca
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the effect of stitch type and stitch direction on the dynamic drape behavior of the woven fabric.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the effectiveness of stitch type and stitch directions on dynamic drape behaviors were investigated. Fabric parts were sewn together with two types of the stitch (lockstitch and overlock stitch) on three different stitch directions (warp, weft and bias (45°)). The static drape coefficients (SDC) of unsewn and sewn fabrics were measured according to the image process method. Dynamic drape coefficients (DDC) of fabrics were also measured using the same method at six different (25, 50, 75, 100, 125, 150 rpms) rotation speeds. Additionally, bending length and bending rigidity were measured using the Cantilever test method.

Findings

Experimental results showed that stitch type and stitch directions are effective on the dynamic drape behaviors of the fabric. Overlock stitch resulted in greater DDC than the lock stitch. For both of the stitch type, DDC for the stitch on the warp direction are greater than the stitch on the weft and bias direction for all speeds. In addition, bending length, hence the bending rigidity, are greater for overlock stitch type and always weft direction resulted in greater than the warp and bias direction.

Originality/value

Fabric drape is vital for garment appearance and is gaining popularity with the advancement of virtual technology, enabling virtual visualization of garments. While previous studies have predominantly examined either the static or dynamic drape behavior of individual fabric panels, or solely focused on the static drape behavior of sewn fabrics, this study acknowledges the significance of incorporating the influence of stitch type and direction on dynamic drape behaviors. Considering that fabrics are sewn together to create garments and that DDC provides a more accurate representation of real-time fabric behavior compared to SDC, this research makes a valuable contribution to the existing literature by investigating the impact of stitch type and direction specifically on DDC.
An exploration of perceptions and experiences of Australian paramedics following the introduction of professional regulation
Authors: Reed Buck , Cowin Leanne , O'Meara Peter , Metusela Christine , Wilson Ian
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Since 2018, Australian paramedics have been regulated under the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme (NRAS) for health practitioners. Established professions have been regulated in Australia for some time, so there is limited knowledge of their entry to regulation. However, as paramedicine has not been previously centrally regulated, this provides a unique case study to explore the transition to regulated practice.

Design/methodology/approach

Australian paramedics undertook two surveys: pre- and post-introduction of registration. The first survey was in the month leading up to the commencement of registration (N = 419), and the second survey took place 31 months after registration (N = 407). This paper presents the results of statistical analyses of the post-registration survey including comparisons to the pre-registration survey.

Findings

Although support for regulation has increased over time, there remains strong dissent consistent with 2018 levels. After 31 months of regulation, respondents reported increasing knowledge of the scheme and greater ease of navigation. The impacts of regulation are more nuanced and less polarised than in the first survey. Identity is again canvassed, and results suggest a shift from employment status and qualifications as key elements of identity to a community of practice and registration.

Originality/value

Paramedics' experiences and understanding of the rationale for registration are developing. Further support is needed to assist with the emerging professional identity and behaviours. Regulation is one of many occupational factors influencing professional identity and professionalism. Exploring the experience of regulation potentially assists regulators in better supporting practitioners and helps better understand professional evolution.
Responsible leadership and organisational citizenship behaviour for the environment: mediated by environmental corporate social responsibility
Authors: Sahar Noor e , Zawawi Dahlia , Jaharuddin Nor Siah , Abbasi Munir A.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study aims to use stewardship theory to investigate the effect of responsible leadership (RL) on organisational citizenship behaviour for the environment (OCBE) through the mediatory role of environmental corporate social responsibility (ECSR).

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected from a sample of 224 individuals employed in the manufacturing sector of Pakistan. The study used partial least squares structural equation modelling to estimate the relationships within the model.

Findings

The findings indicate that RL positively impacts OCBE, and ECSR is a partial mediator that mediates the relationship between RL and OCBE.

Practical implications

This research offers novel perspectives for organisational leaders, highlighting the significance of RL quality for instilling OCBE among the employees of manufacturing sectors. Organisational leaders must prioritise ECSR in their CSR initiatives.

Originality/value

This study’s novelty lies in confirming the mediating role of ECSR to drive the positive impact of RL on OCBE through stewardship theory.
Re-understanding well-being in the Global South: a literature review and conceptual synthesis
Authors: Pinem Milda Longgeita , Yuda Tauchid Komara , Chen Anqi
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The significance of well-being in social development policy and practice is increasingly acknowledged by scholars and practitioners worldwide. Nevertheless, when examining well-being within the context of Global South trends, existing conceptualisations seem to yield incongruent indicators. Given the background, this paper aims to synthesise theoretical and empirical literature on well-being to foster an understanding of well-being in contemporary Global South.

Design/methodology/approach

This article reviews the now large literature on the well-being in the Global South. The article begins with a discussion of the contributions of state-of-the-art developments in well-being studies, a realm experiencing remarkable growth in social policy studies. It then turns to the prominent well-being constructs that have garnered considerable attention within the literature, with an examination of the Global North and Global South context followed by reinterpretation of these concepts to facilitate a comprehensive study of well-being beyond the realms of welfare states. Concluding the narrative, a succinct outline of potential pathways for future research is presented in the final section.

Findings

The review reveals that the concept of well-being in the Global South does not necessarily deviate entirely from the prevailing belief that the region is fundamentally distinct from the Global North on a conceptual level. The authors have discovered that three core dimensions of well-being, namely objective, subjective and relational, are observable across societal boundaries due to the diffusion of knowledge and social and cultural practices that have progressively aligned them with Global North-style modernisation. An exception arises in the relational aspect, where the attainment of positive collective relationships precedes individual happiness to some extent. The paper advances a renewed perspective on well-being, portraying it as a situational, interconnected, collective undertaking and continuous process. These approaches empower the researchers to address the overarching question of which analytical foundations can most effectively uncover the intricacies of well-being in diverse and contemporary circumstances.

Originality/value

This paper helps the researchers to address the overarching question of which analytical foundations can most effectively uncover the intricacies of well-being in diverse and contemporary circumstances, thereby facilitating future enhancements in social policy design.
Risking it all in the metaverse ecosystem: forecasting resistance towards the enterprise metaverse
Authors: Kumar Aman , Shankar Amit , Shaik Aqueeb Sohail , Jain Girish , Malibari Areej
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study investigates organizations' non-adoption intention towards the enterprise metaverse. The innovation resistance theory (IRT) is used as an underpinning theory to examine the impact of various risks on non-adoption intention towards the enterprise metaverse.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 294 responses were collected to examine the proposed hypotheses. A structural equation modelling technique was used to investigate the hypotheses using SPSS AMOS and PROCESS MACRO.

Findings

The results of this study reveal that performance, security and psychological risks are significantly associated with non-adoption intention towards enterprise metaverse. Further, distrust significantly meditates the association between performance risk, social risk, technological dependence risk, security risk and psychological risk and non-adoption intention towards enterprise metaverse. Moreover, the results of moderated-mediation hypotheses indicate that the mediating effect of distrust on the association among performance risk, social risk, psychological risk and non-adoption intention towards enterprise metaverse is higher for individuals having high technostress compared to individuals having low technostress.

Originality/value

The study's findings will enrich the metaverse literature. Further, it provides a deeper understanding of enterprise metaverse adoption from a B2B perspective using the underpinnings of IRT. The study helps organizations understand the risks associated with the adoption of the enterprise metaverse.
Heterogeneous social capital influencing entrepreneurial intention among female business students in the Maldives
Authors: Hassan Shahid , Poon Wai Chuen , Hussain Ibiwani Alisa
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study aims to acknowledge the social capital challenges faced by female entrepreneurs in Small Island Developing States (SIDS), specifically the Maldives. As budding female entrepreneurs in a predominantly traditional culture are somewhat limited in their quest for economic empowerment, this study aims to clarify the role of social capital dimensions – structural, relational and cognitive – in shaping entrepreneurial intentions among women in the Maldives.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered from 325 female business students from ten tertiary educational institutions in the Maldives. After establishing its validity and reliability, the data were analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling, including hypothesis testing.

Findings

Structural social capital (SSC) has a significant positive influence on attitude (ATE), subjective norms (SNs), perceived behavioural control (PBC) and entrepreneurial intention (EI). Relational social capital (RSC) has a significant positive influence on ATE and SNs and a significant negative influence on PBC and EI; cognitive social capital (CSC) has a significant positive influence on ATE, SNs and PBC, but does not significantly influence EI. Additionally, ATE, SNs and PBC are significantly associated with EI. The results also show that the indirect and direct effects through the mediation of ATE, SNs and PBC are significant in the relationship between SSC, RSC and EI. Furthermore, this study reveals an indirect effect on the relationship between CSC and EI.

Research limitations/implications

The findings outline the intricate mechanism by which social capital influences EI. These findings provide useful insights for establishing policies and organising relevant programmes to promote female entrepreneurship in SIDS.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is one of the first to examine the role of social capital in a unique setting, such as SIDS. Moreover, this study integrates the heterogeneous role of social capital into the female EI model. This highlights the urgency of developing relevant social capital among women to promote EI.
Entrepreneurial orientation across gender in Saudi Arabia: evidence from the Adult Population Survey (APS) of Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM)
Authors: Yusuf Nadia , Jamjoom Yussra , Saci Karima
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between socioeconomic factors and entrepreneurial orientation (EO) across genders. The study also highlights the impact of cognitive and motivational factors on the EO in Saudi Arabia.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a quantitative analysis based on the Adult Population Survey of 2016 conducted by the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor among a sample of 4,053 in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Findings

The results showed significant differences in most EO dimensions between genders. It was found that EO is positively related to gender, with more women intending to start a venture than men in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Self-efficacy, motivation and social welfare motivational factors for EO are positively associated with the gender of the respondents.

Practical implications

This paper illustrates the urgency to establish programs that support self-efficacy, motivation and social welfare to promote entrepreneurship among women in the Kingdom.

Originality/value

The study highlights the impact of cognitive and motivational factors on EO among females in Saudi Arabia.
The impact of Credit Suisse takeover on Indian banking and financial services sector stocks: an event study analysis
Authors: Goyal Priyanka , Soni Pooja
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The present study aims to comprehensively examine the impact of the Union Bank of Switzerland (UBS) takeover of Credit Suisse on the banking and financial services sector in the Indian stock market. To fully comprehend the impact of the event, the study separately investigates the response of private sector banks, public sector banks, overall banking companies and financial services companies to the takeover of the second-largest financial institution in Switzerland.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs event study methodology, using the market model, to analyze the event's impact on Indian banking and financial services sector stocks. The data consists of daily closing prices of companies included in the Nifty Private Bank Index, Nifty PSU Bank Index, Nifty Bank Index and Nifty Financial Services Index from the National Stock Exchange (NSE). Furthermore, cross-sectional regression analysis has been conducted to explore the factors that drive abnormal returns.

Findings

The empirical findings of the study suggest the event had a heterogeneous impact on the stock prices of Indian banks and financial services companies. While public sector banks experienced a significant negative impact on select days within the event window, the overall Indian banking sector and financial services companies also witnessed notable declines. In contrast, Indian private sector banks were relatively resilient, exhibiting minimal effects. However, the cumulative effect is found to be insignificant for all four categories across different event windows. The study also observed that the cumulative abnormal returns (CARs) were significantly influenced by certain variables during different event windows.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, the present study is the earliest attempt that investigates the impact of the UBS takeover of Credit Suisse on the Indian banking and financial services sector using event study methodology and cross-sectional regression model.
Perceived risk and digital piracy: a moderated-moderation model
Authors: Koay Kian Yeik
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine the joint moderating effects of privacy risk and time risk on the relationship between financial risk and intentions to pirate digital products.

Design/methodology/approach

The author collected data from 247 participants using a survey method. Subsequently, PROCESS macro was used to evaluate the proposed hypotheses.

Findings

This study found that financial risk does not have a significant relationship with the consumer intention to pirate digital products. However, privacy risk moderates the negative relationship between financial risk and consumers’ intention to pirate digital products, such that the negative relationship is stronger when privacy risk is high. Furthermore, time risk does not moderate the negative relationship between financial risk and consumers’ intention to pirate digital products. Lastly, it was found that privacy risk and time risk jointly moderate the negative relationship between financial risk and consumers’ intention to pirate digital products, such that the negative relationship is strongest when both privacy risk and time risk are high.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the digital piracy literature by understanding the extent of consumer predispositions when there are combined different types of perceived risks against their piracy decision.
Three models of employee ownership: worker cooperative, EOT and ESOP – overcoming barriers – important choices – pros and cons
Authors: Mygind Niels
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to compare three models of employee ownership and to identify pros and cons in relation to how the models can overcome the barriers. Which choices are important when defining the overall rules around the models and the specific possibilities for variations and combinations and what are the pros and cons for these choices?

Design/methodology/approach

The comparison is based on the three main models of employee ownership identified from the country descriptions in this special issue.

Findings

The models do not exclude each other. The models can all be promoted in a specific country, leaving the choice of specific model to the stakeholders involved in the establishment of the employee-owned company. The article also shows the possibility of combining different models and in this way to adjust to specific preferences and conditions – e.g. whether employees and other stakeholders want collective or individual ownership and whether it concerns a start-up or a succession company.

Originality/value

This paper identified the key differences and similarities of different models for employee ownership including pros and cons of worker cooperative vs the Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) and the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) models.
Beyond myth: a systematic literature review on the emergence of unicorn firms
Authors: Giardino Pier Luigi , Delladio Silvia , Baiocco Silvia , Caputo Andrea
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study aims to provide a systematic and comprehensive examination of the underlying factors enabling the emergence of unicorn firms. By addressing this research gap and offering an integrative framework, it seeks to support future research efforts in understanding this phenomenon and contribute to the academic debate around it.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs a systematic literature review (SLR) approach and thematic analysis of articles retrieved from Scopus and Web of Science databases.

Findings

The study sheds light on internal characteristics, ranging from the entrepreneurial (human capital and knowledge) to firm-specific level (business model, corporate governance, resources) and external ones related to the funding factors (financial patterns, venture capitalists, firm evaluation) and the ecosystem (entrepreneurial and technology) around the phenomenon of unicorn firms.

Originality/value

This is the first systematic literature review on unicorns that offers insights into the internal and external factors driving the emergence of such firms, contributes to shed light on the main criticalities that blur their understanding and presents a research agenda for developing this field of research.
Exploring property orientation preferences and local variations
Authors: Lee Changro
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Properties with specific orientations are preferred in South Korea, depending on the real estate market. This preference is usually considered during property transactions and in designing buildings. Despite the importance of property orientation, the magnitude of preference for favored orientation has rarely been empirically estimated in the literature. This study attempts to estimate the value of favored orientation in a quantitative manner and interpret the results.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a geographically weighted regression model, this study obtains nationwide property price data and estimates the strength of orientation preference, that is, the premium for favored orientation. Among the various property types, residential sites and forests were investigated because the orientation of these two property types is known to influence their sales prices in the Korean real estate market.

Findings

The results show that premiums for south-facing residential sites exist in the market, varying locally and ranging from zero to 13.2%, over residential sites with non-south orientations. The results for forests are mixed in that a south-facing forest commands a maximum of 33.1% premium in a certain region, over a forest with a non-south direction, while it also commands a maximum of 33.8% negative premium (discount) in another region, indicating significant local variations in premiums.

Originality/value

These findings are expected to be utilized in fields such as property valuation, house architecture and design.
Pharmacodynamic study of chitosan in combination with salvianolic acid B in the treatment of CC14‐induced liver fibrosis in mice
Authors: Yao Zhongwei , Du Minshu , Wang Yalu , Zhu He , Shu Luan , You Xia , Wang Jing
Published: September 2023

Liver fibrosis is a chronic liver lesion caused by excessive deposition of the extracellular matrix after liver damage, resulting in fibrous scarring of liver tissue. The progression of liver fibrosis is partially influenced by the gut microbiota. Chitosan can play a therapeutic role in liver fibrosis by regulating the gut microbiota based on the ‘gut–liver axis’ theory. Salvianolic acid B can inhibit the development of liver fibrosis by inhibiting the activation of hepatic stellate cells and reducing the production of extracellular matrix. In this study, the therapeutic effect of chitosan in combination with salvianolic acid B on liver fibrosis was investigated in a mouse liver fibrosis model. The results showed that the combination of chitosan and salvianolic acid B was better than the drug alone, improving AST/ALT levels and reducing the expression of α‐SAM, COL I, IL‐6 and other related genes. It improved the structure of gut microbiota and increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus. The above results could provide new ideas for the clinical treatment of liver fibrosis.
The Amazon Refashioned: Théroigne's Riding Habit and Women's Political Uniforms in Revolutionary Paris, 1789–1793
Authors: Zanetti Valerio
Published: September 2023

This article examines the dress of female civic rights activist Théroigne de Méricourt and its political significance in Revolutionary Paris. The first section discusses the symbolism of her iconic scarlet riding habit. The second section explores the role of equestrian fashions in Théroigne's strategy of self‐fashioning as a political actor. The third section considers the change of Théroigne's habit into a tricolour ensemble, traditionally interpreted as a parody of military garb. The fourth section argues that this new dress instead constituted a political uniform adopted by Théroigne and other militant women to further their campaign to acquire full citizenship rights.
First‐trimester prediction of preterm pre‐eclampsia and prophylaxis by aspirin: Effect on spontaneous and iatrogenic preterm birth
Authors: Nicolaides Kypros H. , Syngelaki Argyro , Poon Liona C. , Rolnik Daniel L. , Tan Min Yi , Wright Alan , Wright David
Published: September 2023

Objective

To report the predictive performance for preterm birth (PTB) of the Fetal Medicine Foundation (FMF) triple test and National Institute for health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines used to screen for pre‐eclampsia and examine the impact of aspirin in the prevention of PTB.

Design

Secondary analysis of data from the SPREE study and the ASPRE trial.

Setting

Multicentre studies.

Population

In SPREE, women with singleton pregnancies had screening for preterm pre‐eclampsia at 11–13 weeks of gestation by the FMF method and NICE guidelines. There were 16 451 pregnancies that resulted in delivery at ≥24 weeks of gestation and these data were used to derive the predictive performance for PTB of the two methods of screening. The results from the ASPRE trial were used to examine the effect of aspirin in the prevention of PTB in the population from SPREE.

Methods

Comparison of performance of FMF method and NICE guidelines for pre‐eclampsia in the prediction of PTB and use of aspirin in prevention of PTB.

Main outcome measure

Spontaneous PTB (sPTB), iatrogenic PTB for pre‐eclampsia (iPTB‐PE) and iatrogenic PTB for reasons other than pre‐eclampsia (iPTB‐noPE).

Results

Estimated incidence rates of sPTB, iPTB‐PE and iPTB‐noPE were 3.4%, 0.8% and 1.6%, respectively. The corresponding detection rates were 17%, 82% and 25% for the triple test and 12%, 39% and 19% for NICE guidelines, using the same overall screen positive rate of 10.2%. The estimated proportions prevented by aspirin were 14%, 65% and 0%, respectively.

Conclusion

Prediction of sPTB and iPTB‐noPE by the triple test was poor and poorer by the NICE guidelines. Neither sPTB nor iPTB‐noPE was reduced substantially by aspirin.
Veterans Health Administration enrollees' choice of care setting relates to the expansion of care options: Evidence from screening colonoscopies before and after the MISSION Act
Authors: Eck Chase S. , Jiang Cheng , Petersen Laura A.
Published: September 2023

Objective

To estimate whether those enrolled in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) were less likely to use VHA‐delivered colorectal cancer screening colonoscopies after the MISSION Act.

Data Sources and Study Setting

Secondary data were collected on VHA‐enrolled Veterans from FY2017–FY2021.

Study Design

This retrospective cross‐sectional study measured the volume and share of screening colonoscopies that were VHA‐delivered over time and by drive time eligibility—defined as living more than 60 min away from the nearest VHA specialty‐care clinic. We used a multivariable logistic regression to adjust for patient and facility factors.

Data Extraction

Data were extracted for VHA enrollees (n = 773,766) who underwent a screening colonoscopy either performed or purchased by the VHA from FY2017–FY2021.

Principal Findings

In the 9 months after the implementation of the MISSION Act, and before the onset of the Covid‐19 pandemic, the average monthly VHA‐share of screening colonoscopies decreased by 3 percentage points (pp; 95% confidence interval [CI] = [−4 to −2 pp]) for the non‐drive time eligible group and it decreased by 16 pp (95% CI = [−22 to −9 pp]) for the drive time eligible group. The total number of screening colonoscopies did not significantly change in either group during this time period. After adjusting for patient characteristics, a linear time trend, and parent facility fixed effects, implementation of the MISSION Act was associated with a reduction in the probability of a VHA‐delivered screening colonoscopy (average marginal effect [AME]: −2.5 pp; 95% CI = [−5.1 to 0.0 pp]) for the non‐drive time eligible group. The drive time eligible group (AME: −9.4 pp; 95% CI = [−13.2 to −5.5 pp]) experienced a larger change.

Conclusions

The VHA‐share of screening colonoscopies among VHA enrollees fell in the 9 months immediately after the passage of the MISSION Act. This decline was larger for VHA enrollees who were targeted for eligibility due to a longer drive time. These results suggest that the MISSION Act led to more VHA‐purchased care among targeted VHA enrollees, though it is unclear whether total utilization increased.
Consumer acceptability of no added sugar pound cakes under blind and informed testing conditions
Authors: Williams Reed , Moazzem Md Shakir , Dees Jacob , Hayden Michelle , Traynor Mark , Cho Sungeun
Published: September 2023

Stevia is an emerging natural high‐intensity sweetener. There are negative perceptions of zero‐calorie sweeteners, but studies that provide knowledge of these sweeteners improve their perception. This study evaluated consumer acceptability of a zero‐sugar bakery product under blind and informed conditions (n = 96) along with physicochemical analysis of the products. Rebaudioside A (Reb A) and the new types of stevia (Rebs D and M) with sugar as a control were used to formulate pound cakes. Panelists evaluated the overall hedonic impressions (aroma, texture, flavor, and aftertaste) and intensity (sweetness and bitterness) of the cakes under blind and informed conditions with an enforced 2‐week break between evaluations. During the informed session, a document was provided prior to evaluating samples that included stevia's health benefits and the nutritional facts panels for the cakes. The cakes underwent volatile profile (electronic nose [e‐nose]) and water activity (aw) analysis. Overall, stevia cakes showed an increase in flavor and texture liking during the informed session when compared to the blind session, but only Reb A showed a significant difference (p < 0.05). The increase in liking scores indicated that information positively affected the consumer's perception of the stevia‐sweetened cakes attributes. The e‐nose confirmed differences in aroma. There was a significant difference in aw of the samples Rebs A, D, M versus sucrose (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed among the Rebs (p > 0.05). This study illustrates that stevia, despite non‐browning or fermenting, can be used in a practical baking application, and product‐related information impacts consumer acceptability.

Practical Application

This study demonstrates that product‐related information may have an impact on the consumer acceptability of the product. Through potential labeling improvements, overall consumer perception and acceptability of zero‐sugar added or low‐sugar products could be improved. This study also illustrates that stevia, despite being a non‐browning or fermenting sugar alternative, can be used in a practical baking application.
Clinical characteristics of patients with KRAS mutation detected by liquid biopsy
Authors: Amino Yoshiaki , Low Siew‐Kee , Ninomiya Hironori , Kiritani Ayu , Miyadera Keiki , Kakuto Sho , Akita Takahiro , Tsugitomi Ryosuke , Ariyasu Ryo , Uchibori Ken , Kitazono Satoru , Yanagitani Noriko , Nishio Makoto
Published: September 2023

Background

KRAS mutation positive lung cancer is known to be clinically characterized by older age, males, and smokers. It is reported to be more common in mucinous adenocarcinoma, but all reports are based on analysis of tissue samples. Recently, blood samples have become available for analysis, suggesting a low detection rate of circulating tumor DNA in histological types, especially mucinous adenocarcinoma. In this study, we investigated the clinical characteristics of KRAS mutation‐positive cases in the analysis of blood specimens, as these remain unclear.

Methods

The clinical background of patients with KRAS mutation among those who underwent next‐generation sequencing (NGS) analysis using blood samples was evaluated.

Results

NGS analysis was performed on 214 blood samples. KRAS mutations were detected in blood samples in 33 cases (15.4%), of which 31 cases (14.5%) had a histological pathology diagnosis. Mucinous adenocarcinoma accounted for 28.6% of cases with positive blood and tissue specimens, 10.0% of cases with positive blood specimens only, and 57.1% of cases with positive tissue specimens only. Mucinous adenocarcinoma tended to be less common in cases with positive blood specimens. In KRAS‐positive patients with lung metastasis only, only one nonmucinous adenocarcinoma had a positive blood sample, and the others all had mucinous adenocarcinomas with positive tissue samples only.

Conclusion

The results showed that the detection rate of KRAS‐positive lung cancers detected by blood and tissue samples differs, and that the detection rate of blood samples may be poor, especially in the case of mucinous adenocarcinoma with lung metastases only.