bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the interference of DicdsVg4 and DicdsVgR in egg formation in the ovary of Diaphorina citri (Kuwayama)
Authors: Li Hailin , Wang Xiaoyun , Pan Biqiong , Zheng Xialin , Lu Wen
Published: April 2022

The ovary is the key organ in insect female oviposition. For the continuation of populations in nature, the whole life cycle of female adults is centred on reproduction. Vg and VgR genes are important in determining the synthesis and transport of vitellogenin. Therefore, Vg and VgR gene expression in insect females affects the formation of mature eggs in the ovary, which is very important. RNAi interference of Vg and VgR genes may become an important means to control D. citri populations. A study found that the expression of the DicVg4 and DicVgR genes was significantly affected by DicdsVg4 and DicdsVgR. DicVg4 and DicVgR gene expression interference could prevent the accumulation of vitellogenin in the ovaries of females, rendering ovaries unable to form mature eggs normally and leading to the production of abnormal eggs and nymphs. After knockdown of DicVg4 and DicVgR gene expression, the proportion of ovarian mature eggs was only 8.33 ± 1.67% and 7.75 ± 0.5% in the 10-d developmental stage, the proportion of negative control group ovarian mature eggs was 13.19 ± 0.14% in the 10-d developmental stage, and the proportion of ovarian mature eggs in the interference group was 0.00 ± 0.00% in the 5, 15, 20, 25, and 30-d developmental stages. These results provide a theoretical basis for the use of mixed polygene interference technology to control damage from D. citri populations.
The impact of alternative delivery strategies for novel tuberculosis vaccines in low- and middle-income countries: a modelling study
Authors: Clark Rebecca A. , Mukandavire Christinah , Portnoy Allison , Weerasuriya Chathika K. , Deol Arminder , Scarponi Danny , Iskauskas Andrew , Bakker Roel , Quaife Matthew , Malhotra Shelly , Gebreselassie Nebiat , Zignol Matteo , Hutubessy Raymond C.W. , Giersing Birgitte , Jit Mark , Harris Rebecca C. , Menzies Nicolas A. , White Richard G.
Published: April 2022

Background

Tuberculosis is a leading infectious cause of death worldwide. Novel vaccines will be required to reach global targets and reverse setbacks from the COVID-19 pandemic. We estimated the impact of novel tuberculosis vaccines in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) under alternative delivery scenarios.

Methods

We calibrated a tuberculosis model to 105 LMICs (93% of global tuberculosis incidence). Vaccine scenarios were implemented asBasecase: routine vaccination of 9-year-olds and a one-time vaccination campaign for ages ≥10 with country-specific introduction between 2028–2047 and 5-year scale-up to target coverage;Accelerated Scale-up: asBasecase, but all countries introducing in 2025 with instant scale-up; andRoutine Only: asBasecase, but routine vaccination only. Vaccines protected against disease for 10-years, with 50% efficacy.

Findings

TheBasecasescenario prevented 44.0 (95% uncertainty range=37.2–51.6) million tuberculosis cases, and 5.0 (4.6–5.4) million tuberculosis deaths before 2050, including 2.2 million in the WHO South-East Asian region. TheAccelerated Scale-upscenario prevented 65.5 (55.6–76.0) million cases and 7.9 (7.3–8.5) million deaths before 2050. TheRoutine Onlyscenario prevented 8.8 (7.6–10.1) million cases and 1.1 (0.9–1.2) million deaths before 2050.

Interpretations

Novel tuberculosis vaccines could have substantial impact, which will vary depending on delivery strategy. Including a campaign will be crucial for rapid impact. Accelerated introduction, more similar to the pace of COVID-19 vaccines, could increase lives saved by around 60%. Investment is required to support vaccine development, manufacturing, prompt introduction and scale-up.

Funding

WHO (2020/985800-0)
The bacterial lectin LecA from P. aeruginosa alters membrane organization by dispersing ordered domains
Authors: Sych Taras , Omidvar Ramin , Ostmann Rafael , Schubert Thomas , Brandel Annette , Richert Ludovic , Mely Yves , Madl Josef , Römer Winfried
Published: April 2022

The assembly and dynamic reorganization of plasma membrane nanodomains (also known as “lipid rafts”) play key roles in host cell infection by human pathogens (e.g. viruses and bacteria). Viruses and bacteria can trigger the reorganization of lipid rafts which leads to membrane invaginations and downstream signaling that promote infection. Such reorganizations can be induced by interactions of bacterial or viral carbohydrate proteins (so-called lectins) with lipid raft glycosphingolipids (GSLs). Here, we studied the GSL globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) which is a key receptor involved in the cellular uptake of the gram-negative bacterium P. aeruginosa. The bacterial surface lectin LecA targets Gb3 and promotes bacterial invasion via the “lipid zipper” mechanism. However, the impact of LecA on the organization of membrane nanodomains is unknown yet. We mimicked of the plasma membrane using supported lipid bilayers (SLBs) that contained liquid-ordered (Lo, “raft-like”, enriched in sphingolipids and GSLs) and liquid-disordered (Ld, “non-raft-like” enriched in DOPC) lipid domains. Upon interaction with LecA, the Lo domains in the SLBs reshaped and dispersed. Moreover, deformation of SLBs was observed as LecA formed membrane multilayers on SLBs surface. We further dissected this process to reveal the impact of Gb3 structure, bilayer composition and LecA valence on the Lo reorganization.
Diversity chromosome evolution of Ty1-copia Retrotransposons in Pennisetum purpureum Revealed by FISH
Authors: Yu Zehuai , Huang Yongji , Li Xueting , Wu Jiayun , Zhang Muqing , Deng Zuhu
Published: April 2022

Pennisetum purpureum is a potential species for biofuel production. Characterization and chromosomal distribution of retrotransposons could enhance the comprehension of the role and dynamics of the repetitive elements in plants. In this study, a phylogenetic tree was constructed according to the conserved reverse transcriptase sequences and revealed that these Ty1-copia retrotransposons had typical structure. Analysis showed that total Ty1-copia retrotransposons had a significant component, as high as 5.12 × 103 copy numbers in P. purpureum. Then, the chromosomal pattern of four known lineages were also analyzed with Pennisetum glaucum genome, which suggested that the Sire/Maximus lineage had the highest copy number and followed by Tork/Angela, Tork/TAR, Retrofit/Ale. Additionally, the chromosomal distribution of total Ty1-copia retrotransposons was detected by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) to be a dispersed pattern with weak clustering, mostly near the centromeric regions of P. purpureum chromosomes; interestingly, there were four obvious signals in the subterminal chromosomes. These results suggested that there occurred differential dynamic evolution directions of Ty1-copia retrotransposons within P. purpureum. Furthermore, co-localization of Ty1-copia, 5S rDNA, and 35S rDNA indicated that two chromosome 2 and four chromosome 4 were identified. Concurrently, subterminal signals of Ty1-copia-type retrotransposons were located on four other homologous chromosomes. Altogether, these results shed light on the diversification of Ty1-copia retrotransposons and have the significance for generation of valid chromosomal markers in retrotransposon families.
Vibrio tarriae sp. nov., a novel member of the Cholerae clade isolated from across the United States
Authors: Islam Mohammad Tarequl , Liang Kevin , Orata Fabini D. , Im Monica S. , Alam Munirul , Lee Christine C. , Boucher Yann F.
Published: April 2022

A number of bacteria with close resemblance to Vibrio cholerae has been isolated over the years by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which could not be assigned a proper taxonomic designation based on preliminary identification methods. Nine such isolates have been found to share 16S rRNA gene identity exceeding 99% with V. cholerae, yet DNA-DNA hybridization (60.4-62.1%) and average nucleotide identity values (94.4-95.1%) were below the species cut-off, indicating a potentially novel species. Phylogenetic analysis of core genomes places this group of isolates in a monophyletic clade, within the “Cholerae clade,” but distinct from any other species. Extensive phenotypic characterization reveals unique biochemical properties that distinguish this novel species from V. cholerae. Comparative genomic analysis reveals a unique set of siderophore genes, suggesting that iron acquisition strategies could be vital for the divergence of the novel species from a common ancestor with V. cholerae. Based on genetic, phylogenetic, and phenotypic differences observed, we propose these isolates represent a novel species of the genus Vibrio, for which the name Vibrio tarriae sp. nov. is proposed. Strain 2521-89 (= DSM 112461 = CCUG 75318), isolated from lake water, is the type strain.

Author Notes

The GenBank/EMBL/DDBJ accession number for the 16S rRNA gene sequence of strain 2521-89 is MW773202.1. The genome sequences (genome assemblies) of strains 2521-89, 2523-88, 2015V-1076, 2016V-1018, 2016V-1062, 2017V-1038, 2017V-1070 and 2017V-1124 are deposited under the accession number NZ_CP022353.1, QKKG01000001.1, QKKH00000000.1, QKKI00000000.1, QKKJ00000000.1, QKKK00000000.1, QKKM00000000.1, and QKKN00000000.1, respectively. All the whole genome sequences are deposited under bioproject ID: PRJNA391152.
Mycn regulates intestinal development through ribosomal biogenesis in a zebrafish model of Feingold syndrome 1
Authors: Li Yun-Fei , Cheng Tao , Zhang Ying-Jie , Huang Ying , Sun Xiao-Zhi , Wang Dan , Liu Xiang , Chen Dong , Jin Xi , Xu Peng-Fei
Published: April 2022

Feingold syndrome type 1, caused by loss-of-function of MYCN, is characterized by varied phenotypes including esophageal and duodenal atresia. However, no adequate model exists for studying the syndrome’s pathological or molecular mechanisms, nor is there a treatment strategy. Here, we developed a zebrafish Feingold syndrome type 1 model with nonfunctional mycn, which had severe intestinal atresia. Single-cell RNA-seq identified a subcluster of intestinal cells was highly sensitive to Mycn, and impaired cell proliferation decreased the overall number of intestinal cells in the mycn mutant fish. Bulk RNA-seq and metabolomic analysis showed that expression of ribosomal genes was downregulated and amino acid metabolism was abnormal. Ribosomal profiling analysis showed decreases in free 40S, 60S, and 80S ribosome particles, which led to impaired translation in the mutant. Further, both L-leucine and Rheb, which can elevate translation via TOR pathway, rescued the intestinal phenotype of mycn mutant. In summary, by this zebrafish Feingold syndrome type 1 model, we found that disturbance of ribosomal biogenesis and blockage of protein synthesis during development are primary causes of the intestinal defect in Feingold syndrome type 1. Importantly, our work suggests that leucine supplementation may be a feasible and easy treatment option for this disease.
Factors influencing preparedness self-efficacy among Hispanics and Latinos in the United States
Authors: Rivera Jason D.
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Currently there is a lack of information regarding factors that influence individuals' disaster preparedness self-efficacy among various minority groups in the US. This research seeks to start filling this gap of knowledge by exploring potential factors among Hispanics and Latinos.

Design/methodology/approach

This research uses disaggregated data from the 2020 FEMA National Household Survey to explore potential factors associated with preparedness self-efficacy among Hispanics and Latinos in the US. The study uses an ordered logistic regression to analyze data.

Findings

This research finds that Hispanics' and Latinos' preparedness self-efficacy is statistically related to their income and the FEMA region in which they live, but not prior disaster experience nor exposure and access to disaster preparedness information.

Originality/value

This paper is unique because of the current lack of information available on what specifically contributes to Hispanics' and Latinos' preparedness self-efficacy.
Barriers to healthcare for Venezuelan migrants: physicians' perspective
Authors: Modeste-James Akeem , Huggins Camille
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Increased migration to small island developing states poses major challenges on receiving countries' healthcare systems. Due to public health policy on treating migrants in Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuelan migrants are experiencing less than optimal care. This paper examines the retrospective accounts of physicians treating Venezuelan migrants with limited access to healthcare.

Design/methodology/approach

Ten in depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with physicians working in primary healthcare and emergency departments about their clinical decision-making process in providing care for Venezuelan migrants. A narrative approach was used to highlight the personal experiences of participants. Participants were recruited by their response to an online advertisement on social media (i.e. Facebook and Instagram) and via email invitations. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and coded using NVIVO-12 software.

Findings

Findings revealed language barriers between Venezuelan migrants and Trinidad and Tobago-based physicians hindered providing optimal care coordination. Physicians indicated the use of a translator app to bridge the service gap but questioned their ethics. Participants noted tensions between junior and senior physicians regarding referrals of Venezuelan migrants to outpatient care. The data suggests physicians' felt constrained providing additional services such as primary care due to the Provision of Public Healthcare Services Policy which forbids primary care services to migrants.

Originality/value

Sparse research on the barriers to accessing healthcare for Venezuelan migrants residing in the small island states.
Impact of Leveraged Lending Guidance: evidence from nonbank participation in syndicated loans
Authors: Schenck Natalya , Shi Lan
Published: April 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of supervisory Leveraged Lending Guidance (LLG) (2013–2014) on risk and structure of syndicated loans arranged by the largest US banks with participation of nonbank lenders.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses supervisory shared national credit loan-level data from 2010 to 2015 and DealScan loan origination data and use linear regressions with clustered standard errors.

Findings

This study finds that the impact of the LLG was mixed. Incidence and risk of leveraged lending declined following the Guidance, as reflected in lower nonbank syndicate participation. However, the covenant protections weakened and loan spreads at origination declined. This study also provides evidence that some risky lending originations shifted to nonbank entities outside of the banking regulatory environment.

Originality/value

This study contributes and expands literature on the impact of regulatory guidance on loan risk, terms and structure, focusing on nonbank participation in syndicated commercial loans.
Working capital management, financial performance and growth of firms: empirical evidence from India
Authors: Sawarni Kumar Sanjay , Narayanasamy Sivasankaran , Chattopadhyay Subir , Chakrabarti Prasenjit
Published: April 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate how firms growing at a high average rate over a period differ in their working capital management (WCM) efficiency from those growing at a low rate during the same period. It also examines how WCM efficiency impacts firms’ financial performance and how firms’ growth influences this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors have analyzed the difference in WCM efficiency of a sample of 431 nonfinancial firms during 2012 to 2019 by segregating them into above median growth (AMG) and below median growth (BMG) firms. The authors have used fixed effect regression to investigate the impact of cash conversion cycle, inventory days, accounts receivable days and accounts payable days on the financial performance and the effect of growth on this relationship.

Findings

This study finds that AMG firms manage their working capital significantly more efficiently than BMG firms. It also reports that the WCM efficiency impacts the profitability and valuation of firms positively; however, this relationship is more intense for firms growing at a high rate than for those growing at a low rate.

Originality/value

This research should contribute to the less researched area of WCM by finding the effect of growth on the relationship between WCM efficiency and performance. The evidence found in this study may be of interest for industry practitioners and managers in identifying WCM efficiency as an important driver for the financial performance of their firms.
Viewpoint: applying pragmatism to stimulate service research and practice – a European perspective
Authors: Heinonen Kristina , Strandvik Tore
Published: April 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to apply pragmatism – a philosophy of science on the interplay of human actions and meaning – as a perspective for studying service research and practice, emphasizing the need to deal with dynamics and diversity to cope with service marketplace disruptions. This work focuses on customers (individuals or groups of individuals) as key marketplace stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

Pragmatism provides a foundation for theorizing about change by connecting human actors’ cognitive belief structures and their actions through a continuous learning process. This paper outlines how the key principles of pragmatism can advance service research and practice.

Findings

Adopting the key principles of pragmatism in service management directs attention to service market dynamics. Understanding customers’ everyday lives as the interplay of experiencing, knowing and acting reveals insights about the role of service in dynamic markets for the benefit of service research and practice.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is a viewpoint to stimulate researchers’ reflections on often hidden core assumptions about service. Pragmatism provides a perspective on actors’ practical rationality and problem solving in dynamic settings. Along with its emphasis on a holistic understanding of customers’ lives, this perspective provides direction for future service research and practice. Further, conceptual development and empirical substantiation are encouraged.

Practical implications

By focusing on marketplace changes, this paper addresses management concerns for commercial and non-commercial organizations. Pragmatism encourages critical reflections on what companies are doing and why (the connection between actions and beliefs), revealing underlying beliefs and institutionalized industry practices that require modifications.

Social implications

Pragmatism is an approach to service research and practice, irrespective of aggregation level and sector. Therefore, it can help stimulate societal welfare.

Originality/value

Pragmatism advances service research by delineating a holistic perspective on customers’ lives and providing a perspective for exploring and understanding dynamics and diversity in service markets.
Effect of building orientations and heat treatments on AlSi10Mg alloy fabricated by selective laser melting: microstructure evolution, mechanical properties, fracture mechanism and corrosion behavior
Authors: Tarakçı Gürkan , Khan Hamaid Mahmood , Yılmaz Mustafa Safa , Özer Gökhan
Published: April 2022

Purpose

The present paper aims to systematically investigate the influence of building orientations (0°, 15°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 75°) and heat treatment processes on the macro-/micro-structural, mechanical and electrochemical behaviors of selective laser melting (SLM) prepared AlSi10Mg alloy parts.

Design/methodology/approach

AlSi10Mg samples were produced by the SLM method using standard processing parameters at 0°, 15°, 30°, 45°, 60° and 75° building angles. The effects of building orientations on the physical, mechanical and electrochemical properties of the alloy were investigated.

Findings

With the increase in the building orientation from 15° to 75°, the structural defects were found reducing. The effect of step size of inclined geometries was found to significantly influence the mechanical and electrochemical properties of the AlSi10Mg samples. Tensile strength for samples fabricated at lower angles (0°, 15°, 30°) reported a drop of approximately 11% than SLM 0° samples. Moreover, the tensile strength was found to decrease from 412.35 ± 9.568 MPa for the as-built samples to 290.48 ± 12.658 MPa, whereas the fracture strain increases from 3.32 ± 0.56% to 5.6 ± 0.6% when the as-built sample was treated with T6 treatment. This study indicates that the microstructure and mechanical properties of SLM-processed AlSi10Mg alloy can be tailored by a suitable heat treatment or building angle.

Originality/value

Microstructural and mechanical behavior of horizontal or vertically built SLM components have already been demonstrated several times. However, the influence of different building orientations, such as 0°, 15°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 75°, has not been explored in-depth, particularly on corrosion and general mechanical performance. As a result, this work may be of significant relevance to academics and designers, given the varying orientation of internal component of SLM structures.
Sustainable organizational performance management: deciphering the role of emotional capital in e-commerce industry
Authors: Gupta Parul , Bakhru Kanupriya Misra , Shankar Amit
Published: April 2022

Purpose

This study aims to understand role employee emotional capital in e-commerce organizations for implementing a sustainability-oriented approach. It explores two research questions: First, what role does emotional capital play in creating a sustainability-oriented functioning in an e-commerce organization? Second, how the emotional capital of employees and leaders can be molded and aligned to the desired behavioral approach toward sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors’ methodology involves literature review undertaken to appropriately position the understanding of sustainability and its relationship with emotional capital in the e-commerce industry. The paper is based on the review of articles published between the year 1990 and 2020. Academic and peer-reviewed journal articles, which have contributed to enrich the concept of emotional capital and sustainability, were collected from various data sources like SCOPUS, ERIC, Science Direct and Emerald.

Findings

The findings indicate that the organizational emotional capital can help in designing and pursuing sustainability-oriented practices in a more “engaged” manner. This can further stimulate a new approach for determining the dimensions, goals and measurement criteria for organizational performance management in the e-commerce industry.

Originality/value

This is a first of its kind study that connects the dots between sustainable organization performance and emotional capital establishing groundwork for future research pursuits in the direction. This study presents strong futuristic managerial implications and focuses on how e-commerce organizations can achieve long-term sustainability performance by harnessing the resource of emotional capital, which is inherently present with them at individual and collective levels.
The value of expertise: how chief executive officer and board corporate social responsibility expertise enhance the financial effects of firms’ corporate social responsibility initiatives
Authors: Al-Shammari Marwan Ahmad , Banerjee Soumendra , Shah Tushar R. , Doty Harold , Al-Shammari Hussam
Published: April 2022

Purpose

In light of the conflict between scholarly findings supporting corporate social responsibility’s positive impact on corporate financial performance (CFP) versus findings showing negative impact on CFP, the academic literature has reoriented toward determining the contingency conditions that affect the underlying relationships. This paper aims to investigate two potential contingency factors, the chief executive officer’s (CEO) corporate social responsibility (CSR) expertise and board members’ CSR expertise.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses an unbalanced panel of archival data of 168 firms from the S&P 500 index for the period 2006–2013. The analytic model is estimated using the feasible generalized least squares regression method with heteroscedasticity and panel-specific AR1 autocorrelation.

Findings

The findings reinforce the perspective that CSR positively affects the firm’s financial performance. The authors find that firms realize optimal results from their CSR investments when both the board and the CEO have greater CSR expertise. In other words, both, CEO CSR expertise and board CSR expertise positively impact the CSR–CFP relationship.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this study advance the literature in three important areas, namely, the social responsibility–financial responsibility relationship, the governance literature and upper echelons theory. First, the theoretical arguments and the empirical evidence highlight that CSR–CFP relationship is at least partly contingent upon the CEO’s and board members’ CSR expertise. Second, this study introduces two important variables: the CEO and board’s CSR experience as proxies for their CSR expertise. Future researchers may consider decomposing the various components of CSR to study the differential impact of each component on financial performance.

Practical implications

First, this study finds that while the CEO CSR expertise may be of value for the firm, such value can only be realized under a capable and effective board that has adequate knowledge in the field of CSR. Second, this study shows that the best-case scenario for firms occurs when both its board members and CEO have had greater prior CSR involvement that contributed to their knowledge inventory and skills. Greater knowledge and skills enhance the quality of the decisions that comprise the firm’s CSR strategy.

Originality/value

While it seems intuitive that prior CSR knowledge and expertise should lead to more and better CSR initiatives, there are few if any studies that empirically examine the effects of this premise on a firm’s financial performance. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study appears to be the first that directly tests the relationship between executives’ CSR experience and firm performance.
Encouraging social innovation for combating poverty: master’s students’ gendered experiences with a service-learning intervention in Kenya and Uganda
Authors: Wao Hesborn , Otendo Clement Oduor , Syonguvi Jackline , Muriithi Petronilla , Kadengye Damazo T. , Brodin Eva M.
Published: April 2022

Purpose

This study aims to understand master’s students’ experiences of service-learning, following their participation in a workshop with local social innovators whose activities had contributed to combating poverty in East Africa and to determine how this participation affected work on the students’ theses. The authors also explored possible gender differences in this context.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was based on pretest–posttest mixed methods research design. Data were collected from master’s students within the social sciences and science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines, respectively, in Kenya and Uganda, via surveys and interviews before the workshop, immediately afterwards and six months later.

Findings

Students’ immediate experience was that the workshop contributed to increased critical awareness, adoption of transdisciplinary community-serving approaches and strengthened self-confidence. Six months later, most had related their projects to social problems (e.g. poverty) in their communities. Moreover, the results motivated integration of gender-sensitive curricula based on service-learning in East Africa.

Practical implications

Based on the results, the authors suggest a framework for gender-sensitive curriculum development that can stimulate service-learning in master’s students. Implementation of such a curriculum could eventually contribute to community development, including, e.g. poverty reduction.

Originality/value

Studies on service-learning are rare in Africa, especially in postgraduate education. Gender-sensitive studies on service-learning are generally scarce and the same holds for studies on encouraging STEM students to integrate social innovation into their thesis work. By combining these aspects, this study presents an original contribution to existing research.
Efficiency of digital business transformation in the Republic of Serbia
Authors: Rejman Petrovic Dragana , Krstic Ana , Nedeljković Ivana , Mimovic Predrag
Published: April 2022

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to evaluate the intensity and success of the digitalization process, by measuring the efficiency of the use of information and communication technologies in business in the Republic of Serbia (RS) in the period from 2006 to 2019.

Design/methodology/approach

The data envelopment analysis method is applied and due to the sensitivity of the results to measurement errors, the robustness analysis of the obtained values of average efficiency is performed, using the bootstrapping method.

Findings

The results show an intensive, expansive and relatively efficient process of digital business transformation in the RS. The results indicate inefficient use of software packages, While the efficiency of e-commerce in companies in most years is over 80%.

Research limitations/implications

The research is limited to the RS, so the conclusions cannot be generalized in a broader context.

Practical implications

The biggest problem in the implementation of digital business transformation in the RS is the understanding of management and employees in organizations that digital business transformation will take place only if software solutions are purchased and installed, with less attention paid to their proper application and low use of their maximum capabilities.

Originality/value

Digital transformation measurement is the subject of a very small number of studies. Through a review of the literature, the authors of this paper do not find the use of data envelopment analysis to measure the efficiency of digital business transformation in the way they present it in this paper.
What is the relationship between sustainability, corporate social responsibility and quality of life applications at work?
Authors: Haarpaintner Étienne
Published: April 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to look at the current and future role of corporate social responsibility (CSR) to see how it could be used more effectively by hospitality companies. The article examines the “Food with Integrity” initiative of Chipotle Mexican Grills Inc. and similar approaches being implemented by Club Med resorts and the LIFT program, composed of multiple grants aimed at empowering underserved youth interested in aviation, at Alaska Airlines to illustrate the importance of both large- and small-scale strategies in achieving quality of life (QoL).

Design/methodology/approach

This paper opens with a review of the historical, current and future context of CSR and its application in hospitality industry settings. Additionally, three case study examples are used to portray the evolving role of CSR in hospitality companies.

Findings

The findings of this paper show that CSR initiatives in hospitality settings must advance in order to embrace the concept of social justice for all employees and other company stakeholders. This is a challenging objective to set but it would enable CSR initiatives and QoL outcomes to improve.

Originality/value

It is the first time that the three features case studies (Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc., Club Med and Alaska Airlines) are considered together, analyzed and compared in order to demonstrate the different aspects of effective CSR in hospitality settings.
‘It's not just to treat everybody the same’: A social justice framework for caring for larger patients in healthcare practice
Authors: Kanagasingam Deana , Norman Moss , Hurd Laura
Published: April 2022

Drawing on semi‐structured interviews with larger bodied patients (n = 20) and their healthcare practitioners (n = 22) in Canada, this paper combines micro and macro approaches in outlining a social justice approach to caring for larger patients in healthcare practice. Theoretically, we draw upon structural competency and critical consciousness to address the question of how social justice is enacted, experienced, and understood in interactions between clinicians and larger patients. Our findings highlight four key themes that provide a framework for integrating social justice into healthcare practice: (1) an awareness of one's simultaneous experience of marginalisation and privilege in the clinical interaction; (2) navigating between additive and interactive understandings of intersectionality; (3) micro and macro approaches to change; and (4) straddling the line between equity and equality. The synergies in participants' perspectives across social identities suggests that the cultivation of social justice awareness potentially mitigates some blinders of privilege. Furthermore, practitioners' social justice orientation positively impacted patient experience, with most patients expressing appreciation for having their various histories of trauma and social challenges handled compassionately during appointments.
Collaborative professional development on data‐based decision making for primary teachers of struggling readers: Responding and refining
Authors: Washburn Erin K. , Bailey Kathryn , Pierce Abby , Stewart Cathleen , Hawley JoAnn , Blackman Jennifer , Fenty Nicole
Published: April 2022

The purpose of this manuscript is to share the work of a collaboration between professional development providers and university faculty as they created, implemented and refined a professional development series focused on supporting primary teachers' use of data‐based decision making in reading. Using a formative and design‐based approach, multiple sources of informal, formative data were collected (surveys, memos and teacher feedback). Data analysis led the team to make refinements to the professional development in response to three broad challenges experienced during Year 1 of implementation. Key refinements made to the professional development series included (1) breaking down the data‐based decision making (DBDM) process in reading into more tangible, explicit components (e.g., identifying appropriate assessments, organising and analysing data, using data to target instruction); (2) creating materials tailored specifically to support teachers' knowledge and skills in the DBDM process; and (3) identifying external affordances or barriers to teacher implementation of DBDM (e.g., access to high quality reading assessments and/or intervention materials, communication cycles with other teachers/providers). Challenges experienced and refinements made in this study may provide a framework for thinking about how to support primary teachers to use DBDM in reading and may help administrators understand and reflect on systems‐wide factors that may play a role in supporting or hindering teacher enactment of and confidence related to DBDM.
Efficacy of blood flow measurement using intraoperative color flow Doppler ultrasound as a predictor of autologous arteriovenous fistula maturation
Authors: Yun Sang Seob , Mok Sangkyun , Park Sun Cheol , Park Young Jun , Kim Jang Yong
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Hemodialysis vascular access parameters of intraoperative Color flow Doppler ultrasound remain controversial. This study aimed to evaluate the optimal cut‐off value and efficacy of intraoperative arteriovenous fistula parameters identified by Color flow Doppler ultrasound for arteriovenous fistula maturation success.

Methods

This retrospective study consisted of a review of the medical records of 137 consecutive patients who underwent their first autologous arteriovenous fistula formation under local anesthesia for end‐stage renal disease from April 9, 2020 to March 19, 2021.

Results

The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed that the optimal cut‐off for intraoperative cephalic vein flow volume for brachiocephalic arteriovenous fistula maturation at the 4‐week follow‐up was 349.53 ml/min (area under the curve, 0.792; p, 0.036; Youden index, 0.514).

Conclusion

Intraoperative color Doppler ultrasound outflow cephalic vein flow volume is a useful factor in predicting arteriovenous fistula maturation. Intraoperative Color flow Doppler ultrasound should be performed.
Identification of genome integration sites for developing a CRISPR‐based gene expression toolkit in Yarrowia lipolytica
Authors: Liu Xiaoqin , Cui Zhiyong , Su Tianyuan , Lu Xuemei , Hou Jin , Qi Qingsheng
Published: April 2022

With the rapid development of synthetic biology, the oleaginous yeast Yarrowia lipolytica has become an attractive microorganism for chemical production. To better optimize and reroute metabolic pathways, we have expanded the CRISPR‐based gene expression toolkit of Y. lipolytica. By sorting the integration sites associated with high expression, new neutral integration sites associated with high expression and high integration efficiency were identified. Diverse genetic components, including promoters and terminators, were also characterized to expand the expression range. We found that in addition to promoters, the newly characterized terminators exhibited large variations in gene expression. These genetic components and integration sites were then used to regulate genes involved in the lycopene biosynthesis pathway, and different levels of lycopene production were achieved. The CRISPR‐based gene expression toolkit developed in this study will facilitate the genetic engineering of Y. lipolytica.
Current gaps in management and timely referral of cardiorenal complications among people with type 2 diabetes mellitus in the Middle East and African countries: Expert recommendations
Authors: Sonmez Alper , Sabbour Hani , Echtay Akram , Rahmah Abbas Mahdi , Alhozali Amani Matook , al Sabaan Fahad Sulman , Haddad Fares H. , Iraqi Hinde , Elebrashy Ibrahim , Assaad Samir N. , Bayat Zaheer , Osar Siva Zeynep , Hassanein Mohamed
Published: April 2022

The upsurge of type 2 diabetes mellitus is a major public health concern in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and Africa (AFR) region, with cardiorenal complications (CRCs) being the predominant cause of premature morbidity and mortality. High prevalence of cardiometabolic risk factors, lack of awareness among patients and physicians, deficient infrastructure, and economic constraints lead to a cascade of CRCs at a significantly earlier age in MENA and AFR. In this review, we present consensus recommendations by experts in MENA and AFR, highlighting region‐specific challenges and potential solutions for management of CRCs. Health professionals who understand sociocultural barriers can significantly increase patient awareness and encourage health‐seeking behavior through simple educational tools. Increasing physician knowledge on early identification of CRCs and personalized treatment based on risk stratification, alongside optimum glycemic control, can mitigate therapeutic inertia. Early diagnosis of high‐risk people with regular and systematic monitoring of cardiorenal parameters, development of region‐specific care pathways for timely referral to specialists, followed by guideline‐recommended care with novel antidiabetics are imperative. Adherence to guideline‐recommended care can catalyze utilization of sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors and glucagon‐like peptide 1 receptor agonists with demonstrated cardiorenal benefits—thus paving the way for overcoming care gaps in a cost‐effective manner. Leveraging digital technology like electronic medical records can help generate real‐world data and provide insights on voids in adoption of newer antidiabetic medications. A patient‐centric approach, collaborative care among physicians from different specialties, alongside involvement of policy makers are key for improving patient outcomes and quality of care in MENA and AFR.
Determination of Fe2+/Fe3+ Ratios of Magnetite using Different Methods: A Case Study from the Qimantag Metallogenic Belt
Authors: YI Liwen , LI Qiuping , LU Anhuai , GU Xiangping , CHI Guoxiang
Published: April 2022

Determination of Fe2+/Fe3+ ratios from metallogenic belts to explore controlling physical and chemical conditions of rock formation is of great significance. In order to explore magnetite Fe2+/Fe3+ ratios of the Qimantag metallogenic belt, part of the Eastern Kunlun orogenic belt in the northeastern margin of the Qinghai–Tibetan plateau, western Central Orogenic Belt of China, and overcome the limitation of the traditional electronic probe, five different measurement methods are proposed and their respective advantages and disadvantages evaluated, with the composition data of the magnetite obtained using electron probe microanalysis (EPMA). The direct oxygen measurement method has a significant impact on the determination results of FeO and Fe2O3, but the accuracy and uniformity of the results are low. The valence method (Flank method) based on the spectral intensity ratio of Lα to Lβ for iron is also unreliable for FeO and Fe2O3 measurements because it is difficult to establish a relationship between Lβ/Lα, the spectral intensity ratio, and the Fe2+/Fe3+ content ratio. In comparison, the charge difference method, the surplus‐oxygen method and the Mössbauer spectrum method are still the most favorable. Mössbauer spectroscopy, with its isomer movement particularly sensitive to the oxidation state of iron, yields results closer to 0.5, which is relatively reliable. Earlier magnetite deposits are located in intrusions or contact zones and formed by magmatic fluids with high Fe2+/Fe3+ ratios, whereas later magnetite deposits are farther away from intrusions and have low Fe2+/Fe3+ ratios. The transformation mechanism of hematite and magnetite in the Qimantage metallogenic belt is also studied. No large volume changes, such as pore filling and shrinkage fracture, were detected in the metallogenic belt, and the transformation mechanism is more similar to a reoxidation and reduction mechanism.
Is intersexuality a mere difference or disorder?
Authors: Rehman Rashad
Published: April 2022

Is intersexuality a mere difference or disorder? Since the 2006 Chicago consensus statement's disorder of sexual development (DSD) nomenclature, intersex scholars have criticized and repudiated the use of “disorder” by arguing that it is medically inaccurate, yields unwarranted surgical implications, unnecessarily pathologizes intersex individuals, and that, most importantly, intersex individuals do not prefer it. They argue for linguistic alternatives such as “difference” and other similar alternatives, for example, “variation,” “divergence,” and so forth. These criticisms of “disorder” have had significant uptake by scholars writing on intersexuality. While the motivation(s) for using “mere difference” is doubtless rooted in beneficence for intersex persons, medically inaccurate intersex terminology compromises optimal clinical care and should consequently be either abandoned or revised. This focus paper argues (moderately) for the thesis that some cases of intersex are disorders, and some mere differences. The upshot of my proposal is not only that it conceptually disambiguates disorder and mere difference, but by failing to generalize unique intersex individuals their care is prioritized.
Variability of response to early puberty induction demonstrated by transverse uterine diameter measurement and a novel method of 3D breast imaging
Authors: Burt Elizabeth , Yasmin Ephia , Davies Melanie C , Creighton Sarah , Brain Caroline , Ruff Clifford , Learner Hazel Isabella , Williams Louise , Cameron‐Pimblett Antoinette , Talaulikar Vikram , Conway Gerard
Published: April 2022

Objective

Induction of puberty with exogenous oestrogen results in considerable variability in final uterine and breast volumes. We set out to quantify the variability of these two outcome measures with a view to establishing monitoring methods that could be used to individualise treatment protocols.

Design

A prospective observational study.

Participants

Sixteen participants with pubertal delay and primary amenorrhoea, due to hypogonadism were recruited from paediatric gynaecology and endocrinology clinics at University College London Hospital. A standardised protocol of transdermal 17β oestradiol (17βE) was used (Evorel™), with a starting dose of 12.5 mcg increasing to 25 mcg (patch changed twice weekly) after 4 months. Follow up was every 2 months for a total of 8 months.

Measurements

Uterine dimensions using ultrasound, oestradiol concentrations and breast development assessed by both Tanner staging and 3D photographic imaging.

Results

After 8 months of treatment, the changes in oestradiol concentrations (0–174 pmol), uterine volume growth (4.4–16.4 ml) and breast volume (1.76–140.1 ml) varied greatly between individuals. Of uterine parameters, transverse uterine diameter was most closely associated with serum oestradiol levels at 8 months (beta standardised coefficient = 0.80, p = .001). Change in breast volume was associated with age of treatment initiation (beta standardised coefficient 0.55 p = .04).

Conclusions

We demonstrate variation in response to exogenous oestrogen, emphasising the necessity for individualised dose titration. In the absence of sensitive oestradiol assays, uterine transverse measurements may be used as a surrogate marker of oestrogen sensitivity to guide early dose adjustment. 3D breast imaging may provide a quantitative assessment of breast development to complement Tanner breast staging.
Optimal Learning Under Time Constraints: Empirical and Simulated Trade‐offs Between Depth and Breadth of Study
Authors: Schuetze Brendan A. , Yan Veronica X.
Published: April 2022

Learners are often constrained by their available study time, typically having to make a trade‐off between depth and breadth of learning. Classic experimental paradigms in memory research treat all items as equally important, but this is unlikely the case in reality. Rather, information varies in importance, and people vary in their ability to distinguish what is more or less important. We test the impact of this trade‐off in the study of Graduate Record Examination (GRE)‐synonym word pairs. In our empirical Study 1, we split our stimuli set, with some items (focal) being afforded more rounds of retrieval practice than other items (non‐focal). All conditions had the same total number of trials (i.e., constant study time), but differed in the number of focal words (breadth) and repetitions (depth). The conditions differed significantly in both mean performance and variance on the day‐delayed test. Using this empirical data as a base, we then conducted a simulation (Study 2) modeling depth–breadth trade‐offs under various conditions of learner forecasting accuracy and test coverage. In Study 2, we found that a medium‐depth medium‐breadth strategy was appropriate for most of the learning situations covered by our simulation, but that learners with a well‐calibrated understanding of importance may benefit from a more targeted high‐depth, low‐breadth approach. Our results highlight the complexity of navigating the depth–breadth trade‐off. Models of learning strategy optimization will need to account for learner forecasting sensitivity, which itself is likely an interaction between relatively stable individual differences and shifting contextual factors.