bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two Classes of DNA Gyrase Inhibitors Elicit Distinct Evolutionary Trajectories Toward Resistance in Gram-Negative Pathogens
Authors: Leyn Semen A. , Kent James E. , Zlamal Jaime E. , Elane Marinela L. , Vercruysse Maarten , Osterman Andrei L.
Published: June 2023

Comprehensive knowledge of mechanisms driving the acquisition of antimicrobial resistance is essential for the development of new drugs with minimized resistibility. To gain this knowledge, we combine experimental evolution in a continuous culturing device, the morbidostat, with whole genome sequencing of evolving cultures followed by characterization of drug-resistant isolates. Here, this approach was used to assess evolutionary dynamics of resistance acquisition against DNA gyrase/topoisomerase TriBE inhibitor GP6 inEscherichia coliandAcinetobacter baumannii. The evolution of GP6 resistance in both species was driven by a combination of two classes of mutational events: (i) amino acid substitutions near the ATP-binding site of the GyrB subunit of the DNA gyrase target; and (ii) various mutations and genomic rearrangements leading to upregulation of efflux pumps, species-specific (AcrAB/TolC inE. coliand AdeIJK inA. baumannii) and shared by both species (MdtK). A comparison with the experimental evolution of resistance to ciprofloxacin (CIP), previously performed using the same workflow and strains, revealed fundamental differences between these two distinct classes of compounds. Most notable were non-overlapping spectra of target mutations and distinct evolutionary trajectories that, in the case of GP6, were dominated by upregulation of efflux machinery prior to (or even in lieu) of target modification. Most of efflux-driven GP6-resistant isolates of both species displayed a robust cross-resistance to CIP, while CIP-resistant clones showed no appreciable increase in GP6-resistance.

Importance

The significance of this work is in assessing the mutational landscape and evolutionary dynamics of resistance acquisition against a novel antibiotic, GP6. This approach showed that, in contrast to ciprofloxacin (CIP), a previously studied a canonical DNA gyrase/topoisomerase-targeting clinical antibiotic, evolution of GP6-resistance is driven largely by early and most prominent mutational events leading to upregulation of efflux machinery. An identified asymmetry in cross-resistance of evolved GP6- vs CIP-resistant clones provides important guidelines for rational selection of potential treatment regimens. This study illustrates the utility of the established morbidostat-based comparative resistomics workflow for the assessment of new drug candidates and clinical antibiotics.
SpatialSPM: Statistical parametric mapping for the comparison of gene expression pattern images in multiple spatial transcriptomic datasets
Authors: Ohn Jungyoon , Seo Mi-Kyoung , Park Jeongbin , Lee Daeseung , Choi Hongyoon
Published: June 2023

Spatial transcriptomic (ST) techniques help us understand the gene expression levels in specific parts of tissues and organs, providing insights into their biological functions. Even though ST dataset provides information on the gene expression and its location for each sample, it is challenging to compare spatial gene expression patterns across tissue samples with different shapes and coordinates. Here, we propose a method that reconstructs ST data into multi-dimensional image matrices to ensure comparability across different samples through spatial registration process. We demonstrated the applicability of this method by using two mouse brain ST datasets to investigate and directly compare gene expression in a specific anatomical region of interest, pixel by pixel, across various biological statuses. It can produce statistical parametric maps to find specific regions with differentially expressed genes across tissue samples. Our approach provides an efficient way to analyze ST datasets and may offer detailed insights into various biological conditions.
Bats possess the anatomical substrate for a laryngeal motor cortex
Authors: Nevue Alexander A. , Mello Claudio V. , Portfors Christine V.
Published: June 2023

Cortical neurons that make direct connections to motor neurons in the brainstem and spinal cord are specialized for fine motor control and learning [1, 2]. Imitative vocal learning, the basis for human speech, requires the precise control of the larynx muscles [3]. While much knowledge on vocal learning systems has been gained from studying songbirds [4], an accessible laboratory model for mammalian vocal learning is highly desirable. Evidence indicative of complex vocal repertoires and dialects suggests that bats are vocal learners [5, 6], however the circuitry that underlies vocal control and learning in bats is largely unknown. A key feature of vocal learning animals is a direct cortical projection to the brainstem motor neurons that innervate the vocal organ [7]. A recent study [8] described a direct connection from the primary motor cortex to medullary nucleus ambiguus in the Egyptian fruit bat (Rousettus aegyptiacus). Here we show that a distantly related bat, Seba’s short-tailed bat (Carollia perspicillata) also possesses a direct projection from the primary motor cortex to nucleus ambiguus. Our results, in combination with Wirthlin et al. [8], suggest that multiple bat lineages possess the anatomical substrate for cortical control of vocal output. We propose that bats would be an informative mammalian model for vocal learning studies to better understand the genetics and circuitry involved in human vocal communication.
A super-pangenome of the North American wild grape species
Authors: Cochetel Noé , Minio Andrea , Guarracino Andrea , Garcia Jadran F. , Figueroa-Balderas Rosa , Massonnet Mélanie , Kasuga Takao , Londo Jason , Garrison Erik , Gaut Brandon , Cantu Dario
Published: June 2023

Capturing the genetic diversity of wild relatives is crucial for improving crops because wild species are valuable sources of agronomic traits that are essential to enhance the sustainability and adaptability of domesticated cultivars. Genetic diversity across a genus can be captured in super-pangenomes, which provide a framework for interpreting genomic variations. Here we report the sequencing, assembly, and annotation of nine wild North American grape genomes, which were phased and scaffolded at chromosome scale. We generate a reference-unbiased super-pangenome using pairwise whole-genome alignment methods, revealing the extent of the genomic diversity among wild grape species from sequence to gene level. The pangenome graph captures genomic variation between haplotypes within a species and across the different species, and it accurately assesses the similarity of hybrids to their parents. The species selected to build the pangenome are a great representation of the genus, as illustrated by capturing known allelic variants in the sex-determining region and for Pierce’s disease resistance loci. Using pangenome-wide association analysis, we demonstrate the utility of the super-pangenome by effectively mapping short-reads from genus-wide samples and identifying loci associated with salt tolerance in natural populations of grapes. This study highlights how a reference-unbiased super-pangenome can reveal the genetic basis of adaptive traits from wild relatives and accelerate crop breeding research.
Orientation Single Molecule Localization Microscopy (oSMLM) for Decoding Orientation of Single Molecule
Authors: Joshi Prakash , Mondal Partha P.
Published: June 2023

Standard SMLM facilitates the reconstruction of super-resolution map (both location and localization precision) of the target single molecules. In fact, single molecule data does provide information related to the orientation of single molecules, which can be derived from the knowledge of PSF shape and its direction. This information is vital to probe the sub-domain of macromolecules that undergo orientation and conformational changes and provides essential clues on their catalytic activity. Accessing this information in real-time opens up a powerful new window to look into the link between the orientation of macromolecules and the output function. Here, we decode the orientation of single molecules from the knowledge of PSF shape and its direction. The method is primarily based on field-dipole interaction and the fact that the distribution of emitted photons strongly depends on the orientation of the dipole (fluorophore) with respect to the polarization of light. Accordingly, the photon emission from the specimen and the resultant PSF distribution model is developed. Computational studies show changes in the shape and orientation of the recorded PSF (in the image / detector plane). Specifically, a set of three distinct distributions (Gaussian, bivariate-Gaussian and skewed-Gaussian) are recognized from the study, apart from a superset of all possible (a total of 16) distributions. Experiments were conducted on Dendra2-Actin and Dendra2-HA transfected cells that validate the emission model. We report a localization precision of∼20nmand an orientation precision of±5°. In addition, the distinct orientation of single molecules is noted for Actin and HA in a cell (Influenza type-A model). Further analysis suggests a preferred directional distribution of Dendra2-Actin single molecules, while Dendra2-HA molecules seem to be randomly oriented in a cluster. The availability of orientation information in SMLM without the need for additional optics adds a new feature, which can be explored to reveal the state of a single molecule (orientation and conformational changes) in cellular sub-domains / partitions. The study implies that the orientation of single molecules that has more profound implications for the functioning of macromolecules. The orientation information revealed byoSM LMtechnique gives it a wide-spread appeal and expands the reach of localization microscopy.
The role of embryonic origins and suture proximity in repair of cranial bone
Authors: Doro Daniel , Liu Annie , Lau Jia Shang , Rajendran Arun Kumar , Healy Christopher , Grigoriadis Agamemnon E. , Iseki Sachiko , Liu Karen J.
Published: June 2023

The cranial sutures are proposed to be a stem cell niche, harbouring skeletal stem cells (SSCs) that are directly involved in development, homeostasis, and healing. Like the craniofacial bones, the sutures are formed from both mesoderm and neural crest. During cranial repair, neural crest cells have been proposed to be key players; however, neural crest contributions to the sutures are not well defined, and the relative importance of suture proximity is unclear. Here, we combine calvarial wounding experiments with genetically labelled mouse models to demonstrate that suture proximity predicts the efficiency of cranial repair. Furthermore, we define the neural crest-mesoderm boundary within the sutures and demonstrate thatGli1+ andAxin2+ SSCs are present in all calvarial sutures examined. We propose that the position of the defect determines the availability of neural crest-derived progenitors, which appear to be a key element in the repair of calvarial defects.

Summary statement

This study provides a new examination of the embryonic origins of cranial sutures in mouse. Using genetic lineage labelling, we identify specific contributions of neural crest cells and associated skeletal stem cells during repair of calvarial wounds. This is extremely relevant considering recent findings regarding the role of suture-residing stem cells.
Glutamine antagonist DRP-104 suppresses tumor growth and enhances response to checkpoint blockade inKEAP1mutant lung cancer
Authors: Pillai Ray , LeBoeuf Sarah E. , Hao Yuan , New Connie , Blum Jenna L. E. , Rashidfarrokhi Ali , Huang Shih Ming , Bahamon Christian , Wu Warren L. , Karadal-Ferrena Burcu , Herrera Alberto , Ivanova Ellie , Cross Michael , Bossowski Jozef P. , Ding Hongyu , Hayashi Makiko , Rajalingam Sahith , Karakousi Triantafyllia , Sayin Volkan I. , Khanna Kamal M. , Wong Kwok-Kin , Wild Robert , Tsirigos Aristotelis , Poirier John T. , Rudin Charles M. , Davidson Shawn M. , Koralov Sergei B. , Papagiannakopoulos Thales
Published: June 2023

Loss-of-function mutations inKEAP1frequently occur in lung cancer and are associated with resistance to standard of care treatment, highlighting the need for the development of targeted therapies. We have previously shown thatKEAP1mutant tumors have increased glutamine consumption to support the metabolic rewiring associated with NRF2 activation. Here, using patient-derived xenograft models and antigenic orthotopic lung cancer models, we show that the novel glutamine antagonist DRP-104 impairs the growth ofKEAP1mutant tumors. We find that DRP-104 suppressesKEAP1mutant tumor growth by inhibiting glutamine-dependent nucleotide synthesis and promoting anti-tumor CD4 and CD8 T cell responses. Using multimodal single-cell sequencing andex vivofunctional assays, we discover that DRP-104 reverses T cell exhaustion and enhances the function of CD4 and CD8 T cells culminating in an improved response to anti-PD1 therapy. Our pre-clinical findings provide compelling evidence that DRP-104, currently in phase 1 clinical trials, offers a promising therapeutic approach for treating patients withKEAP1mutant lung cancer. Furthermore, we demonstrate that by combining DRP-104 with checkpoint inhibition, we can achieve suppression of tumor intrinsic metabolism and augmentation of anti-tumor T cell responses.
Synthesis and crystal structures of two 1H-benzo[d]imidazole derivatives: DFT and anticorrosion studies, and Hirshfeld surface analysis
Authors: Ghichi Nadir , Djedouani Amel , Hannachid Douniazed , Said Mohamed Elhadi , Benboudiaf Ali , Merazig Hocine , Ouksel Louiza , Hellal Abdelkader , Stoeckli-Evans Helen
Published: June 2023

The title benzimidazole compounds, namely, 2-(4-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)-1H-benzo[d]imidazole, C18H14N2O (I) and 2-(4-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)-1-[(4-methoxynaphthalen-1-yl)methyl]-1H-benzo[d]imidazole ethanol monosolvate, C30H24N2O2·C2H6O (II), were synthesized by the condensation reaction of benzene-1,2-diamine with 4-methoxynaphthalene-1-carbaldehyde in the ratios 1:1 and 1:2, respectively. In I, the mean plane of the naphthalene ring system is inclined to that of the benzimidazole ring by 39.22 (8)°, while in II, the corresponding dihedral angle is 64.76 (6)°. This difference is probably influenced by the position of the second naphthalene ring system in II; it is inclined to the benzimidazole ring mean plane by 77.68 (6)°. The two naphthalene ring systems in II are inclined to one another by 75.58 (6)°. In the crystal of I, molecules are linked by N—H...N hydrogen bonds to form chains propagating along the a-axis direction. Inversion-related molecules are also linked by a C—H...π interaction linking the chains to form layers lying parallel to the ac plane. In the crystal of II, the disordered ethanol molecule is linked to the molecule of II by an O—H...N hydrogen bond. There are a number of C—H...π interactions present, both intra- and intermolecular. Molecules related by an inversion centre are linked by C—H...π interactions, forming a dimer. The dimers are linked by further C—H...π interactions, forming ribbons propagating along the b-axis direction. The interatomic contacts in the crystal structures of both compounds were explored using Hirshfeld surface analysis. The molecular structures of I and II were determined by density functional theory (DFT) calculations at the M062X/6-311+g(d) level of theory and compared with the experimentally determined molecular structures in the solid state. Local and global reactivity descriptors were computed to predict the reactivity of the title compounds. Both compounds were shown to exhibit significant anticorrosion properties with respect to iron and copper.
Crystal structures and Hirshfeld surface analyses of N,N-dimethylacetamide–1-(dimethyl-λ4-azanylidene)ethan-1-ol tribromide (1/1), N,N-dimethylacetamide–1-(dimethyl-λ4-azanylidene)ethan-1-ol dibromidoiodate (1/1) and N,N-dimethylacetamide–1-(dimethyl-λ4-azanylidene)ethan-1-ol dichloridoiodate (1/1)
Authors: Mammadova Gunay Z. , Mertsalov Dmitriy F. , Shchevnikov Dmitriy M. , Grigoriev Mikhail S. , Akkurt Mehmet , Yıldırım Sema Öztürk , Bhattarai Ajaya
Published: June 2023

In the title compounds, N,N-dimethylacetamide–1-(dimethyl-λ4-azanylidene)ethan-1-ol tribromide (1/1), C4H9NO·C4H10NO+·Br3
− or [(C4H9NO)·(C4H10NO)](Br3), (I), N,N-dimethylacetamide–1-(dimethyl-λ4-azanylidene)ethan-1-ol dibromidoiodate (1/1), C4H9NO·C4H10NO+·Br2I− or [(C4H9NO)·(C4H10NO)](Br2I), (II), and N,N-dimethylacetamide–1-(dimethyl-λ4-azanylidene)ethan-1-ol dichloridoiodate (1/1), C4H9NO·C4H10NO+·Cl2I− or [(C4H9NO)·(C4H10NO)]·(Cl2I), (III), all the anions are almost linear in geometry and all the cations, except for the methyl H atoms, are essentially planar. In the crystal structure of (I), the cations are linked by pairs of C—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming inversion dimers with an R
2
2(8) ring motif. These dimers also exhibit O—H...O hydrogen bonding. Dimerized cation pairs and anions are arranged in columns along the a axis. In the crystal of (II), the cations are linked by pairs of O—H...O and C—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming an R
4
4(14) ring motif. These groups of cations and the anions form individual columns along the a axis and jointly reside in planes roughly parallel to (011). In the crystal of (III), cations and anions also form columns parallel to the a axis, resulting in layers parallel to the (020) plane. Furthermore, the crystal structures of (I), (II) and (III) are consolidated by strong halogen (Br and/or I and/or Cl)...H and weak van der Waals interactions. In addition to the structural evaluation, a Hirshfeld surface analysis was carried out.
9,10-Bis(iodoethynyl)anthracene
Authors: Antoine Nehemiah , James Marisa , Dungey Keenan , McMillen Colin , Pienkos Jared
Published: June 2023

The title compound, C18H8I2, is an ethynyl-substituted anthracene. The C—C—I bond angles deviate from 180°, being affected by intermolecular I...π interactions. These interactions form a two-dimensional supramolecular structure further supported by offset π–π stacking of neighboring anthracene moieties.
2-Amino-4-(4-methoxyphenyl)-5-oxo-4H,5H-pyrano[3,2-c]chromene-3-carbonitrile acetic acid monosolvate
Authors: Chakraborty Bimal Bhushan , Paul Saurav , Anwar Siddique , Choudhury Sudip
Published: June 2023

In the title co-crystal, C20H14N2O4·C2H4O2, the expected proton transfer from acetic acid to amine has not occurred. In the crystal, the chromene molecules are linked by N—H...O and N—H...N hydrogen bonds to generate [100] columns. The acetic acid molecules form inversion dimers linked by pairwise O—H...O hydrogen bonds and occupy voids between the columns.
Stability analysis for scheduled air traffic flow
Authors: Han Yun-Xiang
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Modeling and system performance analysis play an important role in the planning of air traffic system. In particular, this paper aims to concentrate on the modeling and the performance evaluation of air transportation system.

Design/methodology/approach

It has shown that system matrices inherent in the airspace network can be acquired based on the service times of flights. This paper deals with a logical modeling which can avoid temporal synchronization conflict of resources. As a result, a class of queuing system is investigated to obtain a representation of the airspace network dynamics using dioid model.

Findings

The analysis of the air traffic system is conducted by solving the system state model. This indicates that it is feasible to use eigenvalues of system model for acquiring characteristics of the considered air transport systems.

Practical implications

The departure scheduling prototype presented in this paper can offer air traffic controller a decision support tool to build optimal departure sequences for aircraft.

Originality/value

The properties of max-plus algebra described allow us to apply linear algebra concepts like eigenvalue and eigenvectors to obtain a solution to the air traffic system being modeled. By solving and analyzing the dioid model, this paper evaluated some performance measures of airspace network.
Impact of Covid-19 pandemic on quality of work life of nurses – a major human rights component
Authors: T.S. Nanjundeswaraswamy , Bharath Sindu , Nagesh P. , K.M. Vignesh
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate and compare the quality of work life (QWL) of nurses, in pre- and post-COVID-19 pandemic situations.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts a descriptive research design. Data were collected during the pre- and post-pandemic periods. The target sampling unit of the study comprises nurses working in Bangalore city, Karnataka, India. The minimum sample size was determined (Bartlett et al., 2001) as 385. The scale validation is carried out. The factors for the present study were explored using exploratory factor analysis and confirmed by confirmatory factor analysis. Model fitness (proposed measurement model) is ensured by using fit indices. The linear regression method was used to measure the level of QWL of nurses.

Findings

The present study noted that key factors that affects the QWL of nursing staff are work condition; work environment; work-life balance; compensation and reward; career development; job satisfaction and security; organization culture; relationship among co-workers and stress. Further, it is noticed that QWL of nurses pre-COVID-19 pandemic is 87.2%, while post-COVID-19 pandemic, it is 67%.

Research limitations/implications

Present study can be extended to address the same research question by considering sampling unit such as therapist, technicians and sanitarians who have equally undergone tremendous pressure during pandemic.

Practical implications

The study outcome provides references for organizations engaged in health services to understand the extreme job conditions posed by pandemic. The constructive inspiration (physio-social and organizational support) reinforces the nurses to continue in their professions by decreasing negative impact.

Originality/value

The research paper extends the contributions of Hwang (2002), Nikeghbal et al. (2021), Howie–Esquivel et al. (2022) and Rania et al. (2023) and add to the existing body of the QWL literature. The outcome of the research records the prevailing conditions of pandemic and its effect on changes in work environment with specific reference to health-care sector.
The impact of a coach training intervention on undergraduate students
Authors: McFarlane Julie
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This paper explores the impact of a coach training programme in a UK higher education institution (UKHEI). This paper evaluates the use of coach training to equip undergraduate students with the skills needed to set goals and navigate stressors in personal and professional life.

Design/methodology/approach

An interpretivist research design was chosen to gather detailed information about the participants. Data were collected via a multi-method approach comprising participant observations, individual reflections and surveys amongst 18 students. Each method allowed the researcher to interpret the participants' perspectives of social reality.

Findings

The inductive analysis revealed three key themes related to the impact of coach training: a greater awareness of self, enhanced relationships with others and a renewed focus on the future. The findings also showed that coach training provided students with a goal-focussed, judgement-free strategy to address issues related to university stressors such as burnout.

Research limitations/implications

The conclusions drawn from the study are placed in the context of the wider coaching debate yet are not generalisable. They illustrate a strong link between coach training and the positive impact on the students increased sense of self, their renewed view of the world and how they want to engage with the training.

Practical implications

The results of this study highlight the need for further research into the impact of coaching and coach training initiatives on UKHEI students. The study also proposes that coaching strategies should be embedded into the curriculum to better prepare graduates to navigate the transition from university life to professional life.

Originality/value

This paper provides empirical evidence of the positive impacts of coach training on UKHEI students. This paper contributes to an understanding of coach training's potential impact on students' engagement in, and enjoyment of, the higher education learning journey. This paper also provides a foundation for future empirical research in this area.
Revisiting Zakat with a distribution of weighted Shapley value
Authors: Tlemsani Issam , Matthews Robin , Mohamed Hashim Mohamed Ashmel
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to extend the Shapley value (SV) into a discussion of Zakat, a Pillar of Islam. Lloyd Shapley was awarded the Nobel Prize in Economics in 2012. This study shows that their relationship is significant for all nations, that of levelling up. An important but neglected paper by Datta (1939) showed insights provided by the Power Law, or as it is sometimes called, the Pareto distribution, into the role of Zakat in raising the income of all above the subsistence level. The Pareto distribution describes the prevailing tendency. The SV illustrates the interdependence perspective of Zakat with the Pareto distribution, wealth, income and poverty. Payoffs apply equally to both givers and receivers. For this study’s purposes, payoffs are considered as transferable utilities. They are formed by individuals who willingly cooperate in society rather than atomistic individuals who act independently. Zakat represents the recognition that society needs to be cooperative rather than individualistic; people cooperate in groups or societies to create value. SV implications and axioms are evaluated with an illustration.

Design/methodology/approach

This study extends Datta’s approach by introducing distribution weights into the SV. The authors set out the concept of weighted Shapley values that retain the elements of randomness and marginal contribution to a coalition contained in pure/true SVs and weights that follow a ley-Pareto distribution. This paper is a viewpoint work that relies primarily on the author’s qualitative interpretation.

Findings

The findings indicate that individual members of a coalition make multiple contributions that are often unrewarded. The contribution of one member of a coalition is dependent upon the contribution of others. The measure of contributions is payoffs, which have both monetary and non-monetary aspects; transferable payoffs or utilities are usually assumed. Furthermore, the significant agents in society or an organisation are stakeholders rather than the usual categories: managers, staff, shareholders, etc.

Practical implications

Contextualising these concepts within the Islamic values and principles that guide Zakat administration is crucial to ensure that the distribution of Zakat funds is fair, equitable and meets the needs of all eligible recipients. By applying these concepts appropriately, Zakat administrators can ensure that the Zakat system functions effectively and fulfils its religious obligation.

Originality/value

The novelty of this paper is that it blends the SV and the idea behind Zakat by introducing the idea of alternatives of Shapley weights. The link between the institution of Zakat and SV in terms of equality, poverty elimination and wealth distribution should be at the top of the research agenda.
Making an M&A work: equal strategic partnerships smooth the path
Authors: Ström Viktor , Braunerhjelm Pontus , Esmaeilzadeh Saeid
Published: June 2023

Purpose

By providing equal weight to buyers and sellers, the purpose of this paper is to enhance our understanding of the determinants underlying successful mergers and acquisitions (M&As) involving a specific segment of firms involved in such undertakings, i.e., knowledge-intensive innovative and entrepreneurial (KIE) firms.

Design/methodology/approach

A multiple case study, based on eight semi-structured interviews with CEOs representing acquirers and the acquired firms, investigates the focal phenomenon this study addresses.

Findings

The results suggest that knowledge-intensive, innovative and entrepreneurial firms promote entrepreneurial intentions and allow value creation of M&As through four overarching measures. These are buyer–seller fit, aligned incentives, long-term thinking and perpetual alliance.

Research limitations/implications

The outcomes of this research may have limited generalizable due to the chosen research methodology. Therefore, this study recommends future studies testing the validity of these findings.

Practical implications

The authors have clarified the drawbacks of integration when being involved in M&As with KIE firms. These drawbacks primarily revolved around not eliminating the entrepreneurs’ autonomy and their routines, but it is also partly related to letting them keep their identity (i.e. their brand) as well as retaining employees’ trust in the new owner.

Originality/value

Contrary to most papers, this study has taken an approach giving equal weight to both buyers and sellers. In doing so, this study clarified the drawbacks of integration when it involves M&As with KIE firms.
Political economy of financial development: empirical evidence from Ethiopia
Authors: Bedemo Beyene Amsalu
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The main purpose of this study is to examine the political economy of financial development in Ethiopia, specifically, to test the empirical relevance of the interest group theory of financial development in the context of Ethiopia.

Design/methodology/approach

The autoregressive distributive lag model to co-integration is applied to Ethiopia’s time series data from 1990 to 2020 to identify the long- and short-run effects of the political regime characteristics on financial development of the country.

Findings

The findings reveal that the degree of democracy in the political system (a proxy for narrow elites) was found to have a significant positive effect on financial development in the long run but has negatively affected financial development in the short run. Similarly, the political regime durability indicator shows a positive and statistically significant effect both in the long run and short run. The macroeconomic policy indicators which are used as control variables in this study reveal significant effects on the financial development of Ethiopia. Generally, the finding supports the interest group theory of financial development.

Originality/value

This paper is the original work on the effect of political regime characteristics on financial development in Ethiopia. Thus, it brings substantial value to studying determinants of financial development as it goes beyond the conventional determinants by considering the role of political power in the process of financial development.
Influence of social and spatial embeddedness on rural entrepreneurship in the Amazon: a study with a Brazilian tribe' enterprising Indians
Authors: Corrêa Victor Silva , Abreu Ana Paula Pricila Costa , Vivaldini Mauro , Cruz Marina de Almeida
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the influence of social and spatial embeddedness on indigenous rural entrepreneurship in Amazon/Brazil. Rural entrepreneurship has increased in recent years. Some studies have focused on the relevance of spatial embeddedness in understanding this phenomenon, whereas others have highlighted the importance of social embeddedness. Although some scholars have associated both construct dimensions to understand rural entrepreneurship in developed economies, such an association remains scarce when considering both emerging and developing contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

The strategy was qualitative, using the integrated case study method. The case was the Paiter-Suruí indigenous tribe in the Amazon region, Brazil, recognized for the entrepreneurship of their community. Fourteen indigenous rural entrepreneurs participated in the study.

Findings

Field data show that entrepreneurs embed themselves in dense social networks that influence their decisions, including those involving the creation of enterprises. In addition, entrepreneurs are deeply embedded in rural territoriality (spatial), impacting how they create and seek to develop their own ventures.

Originality/value

The study of an empirical context that is still poorly explored has made two main contributions to the social and spatial embeddedness literature. First, evidence shows social influence on spatial embeddedness and vice versa, suggesting the need to integrate both perspectives. Second, this study contributes to the literature on rural entrepreneurship by shedding light on novel strategies for developing such enterprises. In addition, this study emphasizes the relevance of investigating the challenges that hinder rural entrepreneurial development in emerging and developing contexts.
Exhibiting entrepreneurial behavior at work: a lived experience of a millennial entrepreneur
Authors: Yiga Sirajje , Abaho Ernest , Nsereko Isa , Ngoma Muhammed , Balunywa Waswa , Basalirwa Edith Mwebaza
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This paper offers a story-based/narrative inquiry rooted in qualitative methodology, portraying a millennial entrepreneur in Uganda, a low-developed country that has successfully demonstrated entrepreneurial behaviors at work. The study of entrepreneurial behavior at workplaces by millennial entrepreneurs formed the basis for the real-life trials that entrepreneurs go through in their businesses. Besides, the produced empirical content gives a solid linkage between the story and the enterprise's work setting.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the authors used storytelling to get a clear view of reality and obtain a real-life experience of entrepreneurial behavior at work. The experiences and perceptions of the millennial entrepreneur were assessed by conducting in-depth interviews while focusing on the context, actions, results and lessons to generate a coherent story.

Findings

This paper reports that demonstrating entrepreneurial behavior at work by the millennial entrepreneur resulted in better performance that ultimately benefited the enterprise. Additionally, findings reveal that story-based narrative inquiry is appropriate for demonstrating the true reality at workplaces, especially in the context of exhibiting the behaviors of entrepreneurs. Other entrepreneurs can emulate what the actor did and benchmark on the findings to improve their performance and that of their enterprises.

Originality/value

This study is unique in its use of a positive story showing a real-life experience of how entrepreneurial behaviors are exhibited at workplaces in micro and small enterprises in a low-developed country like Uganda. The paper also offers evidence and insights into the use of a positive story to demonstrate a practical experience of how millennial entrepreneurs demonstrate entrepreneurial behaviors at work. Additionally, the study used multiple theories that best explained the current practice of entrepreneurial behavior among millennials at workplaces in micro and small enterprises.
Examining differences in perceived usability of Google Drive among public library users
Authors: Taqi Farwa , Batool Syeda Hina , Arshad Alia
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This study aims to explore differences in the usability of the Google Drive application based on demographic characteristics, computer skills and use frequency of Google Drive among public library users of Lahore.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted a quantitative approach and survey-based research method to achieve the study's objectives. The cloud usability model (user perspective) has been used as a theoretical lens to guide the study objectives. It comprises five dimensions of usability – capable, personal, reliable, valuable and secure.

Findings

The findings of the study revealed that the usability of Google Drive varied statistically significantly on the basis of depending on the respondents gender, age, academic qualification, computer skills and Google Drive use frequency.

Practical implications

It is a valuable study since it and adds knowledge to existing literature and has implications for practice.

Originality/value

The findings might be helpful for cloud support teams including Google Drive as they can notice the demographic and other differences among users' perceived usability of Google Drive and can enhance certain features of usability which leads attributes to increase its usage among users.
Smarthub for supervising system for resource exploration and pollution control in deep-water and coastal areas based on ICT technologies
Authors: Reiskarts Vladimirs , Savenkovs Konstantins
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This study aims to explore the need for highly technological complexes for control and monitoring, as well as, new concepts and methodologies for maritime resource exploration and exploitation, which are in great demand nowadays.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper provides an analysis of demand, means of creation and development of the methodology and infrastructure for global monitoring, pollution control and supervision of smart systems for activities in exploration, future resource exploitation in deep-water and coastal areas based on Smarthub architecture, Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS), Continuous Acquisition and Life-Cycle Support (CALS) and Blockchain technologies.

Findings

Observational, experimental, simulation, derivational, hybrid descriptive and analytical models, as well as, surrogate models were created, analyzed and implemented for assigned tasks realization. Concept of distributed system for marine environmental monitoring, control and supervising as pilot technology in the context of Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 3–5 was designed and evaluated.

Originality/value

The activities described in this article should be realized in the design and development of a complex, reliable, robust and sustainable monitoring and inspection system for the control and evaluation of the impact and risk assessment of the exploration and future exploitation of maritime resources.
Performance of cross-border acquirers from India and China: its sustainability in the long-run?
Authors: Jain Samta , Kashiramka Smita , Jain P.K.
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Emerging market multinational companies have been vigorous in pursuing inorganic growth through cross-border acquisitions (CBAs). The fundamental studies till now have portrayed that rapid internationalization through CBAs tends to create value for these emerging market firms (EMFs) in the short term. However, there is an ambiguity about whether these firms endure better performance in the long term. The purpose of this study is to assess the long-term (ex-post) financial and operating performance of EMFs involved in overseas acquisitions before the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world economy.

Design/methodology/approach

CBAs completed by Indian and Chinese companies constitute the sample of the study. The performance has been analysed during the pre-COVID period spanning 17 years from 2001 to 2017. A comprehensive set of 14 financial ratios has been used to represent change (improvement/decline) in enterprises’ post-acquisition operating performance; these ratios have been divided into four broad groups: profitability, efficiency, solvency and liquidity ratios.

Findings

The performance of Indian companies has deteriorated significantly after the acquisition. However, there has been no change (deterioration/improvement), subsequent to CBAs, in the profitability of Chinese firms.

Practical implications

The findings of the study support that firms from emerging economies exploit CBAs as a “springboard” to obtain strategic assets including intangible resources and brands rather than to achieve synergies through economies of scale and scope. Apparently, outbound acquisitions by emerging economy firms are not driven by cost-reduction or revenue-generation activities.

Originality/value

None of the studies, to the best knowledge of the authors, has carried out performance analysis using a comprehensive set of financial ratios. The comparative study of two emerging economies is another valuable addition to the existing literature. The study holds the potential to serve as the benchmark to assess the performance of CBAs executed after COVID-19.
Using PRPP‐Assessment for measuring change in everyday activities by home‐based videos: An exploratory case series study in children with multiple disabilities
Authors: Rothuizen‐Lindenschot Marieke , Graff Maud J. L. , de Boer Lonneke , de Groot Imelda J. M. , Nijhuis‐van der Sanden Maria W. G. , Steultjens Esther M. J. , Koene Saskia
Published: June 2023

Background

Currently, paediatric health care aims to use a child‐centred tailor‐made approach. In order to design tailored occupational therapy, the implementation of personalised occupation‐based measurements that guide and evaluate goal setting and are responsive to change is necessary.

Purpose

Primarily, this study explored the potential of the Perceive, Recall, Plan, and Perform (PRPP) assessment to measure the change in the performance of children with multiple disabilities. As a secondary evaluation, the feasibility of the PRPP‐Intervention in a home‐based program to enable activities was described. The overall aim is to show the potential of the PRPP‐Assessment as an outcome measure to use as a base for designing tailor‐made person‐centred care.

Methods

An exploratory longitudinal multiple case series mixed‐methods design was used. The PRPP‐Assessment, scored by multiple raters, was conducted based on parent‐provided videos. The assessed activities were chosen by the child and/or parents. Responsiveness was evaluated by hypotheses formulated a priori and by comparing measured change with change on concurrent measures: Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS) and Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM). Over a 6‐week period, children and their parents (or caregivers) participated in an online home‐based video coaching program where parents were coached in the implementation of the training, based on the PRPP‐Intervention, by paediatric occupational therapists on a weekly basis. The feasibility of the intervention was explored using semi‐structured interviews with children, parents, and the treating occupational therapists and was analysed by directed content analysis.

Results

Three out of 17 eligible children agreed to participate and completed post‐intervention measurement, of which two completed the intervention. Quantitative results showed that eight out of nine activities improved on the PRPP‐Assessment and the COPM, and nine improved on the GAS. In total, 13 out of 15 hypotheses for responsiveness were accepted. Participants experienced the intervention as successful and acceptable. Facilitators and concerns over demand, implementation, practicality, integration, and adaptation were shared.

Conclusion

The PRPP‐Assessment showed the potential to measure change in a heterogeneous group of children. The results indicated a positive tendency for the intervention and also provide directions for further development.
Examining organisational subcultures: Machinery of Government mergers and emerging organisational microcultures
Authors: Kiaos Theaanna
Published: June 2023

Machinery of Government restructures—transformations that create or abolish departments or move functions between agencies—often result in the misalignment of cultures and subcultures that impact business operations and customer service levels. An understanding of how subcultures are impacted during restructures is vital as they can reveal diffused microcultural boundaries that reflect highly problematic cultural tensions. This study provides rare ethnographic insights into how Machinery of Government restructures destabilise the delivery of optimal customer service by disrupting Business as Usual operations. Based on 74 interviews and ethnographic methods, the integrationist ‘DNA’ culture, subcultures, and emerging microcultures within Service NSW, a public sector agency in New South Wales (Australia), were examined during and after its merger with the Department of Customer Service. Microcultures were shown to function in a way that preserved Business as Usual activities and responsibilities to secure task independence, highlighting the importance of developing a conceptual framework for the detection and resolution of cultural resistance. Scholars and practitioners may adopt the framework used in this study to determine how, when, and where cultural resistance is likely to emerge.

Points for practitioners

This study critically analyses the ‘DNA’ culture of a service delivery agency in New South Wales during and after its merger with the Department of Customer Service.

Service NSW's ‘DNA’ integrationist culture, the broader subculture of its ‘Support Office’, and various microcultures were detected.

Microcultures were shown to preserve Business as Usual activities and secure task independence as reflected in backstage sites of enactment. The degree of intra‐ and interpersonal tensions experienced by Service NSW employees was opaque to senior leaders responsible for the restructure.

Leaders and practitioners responsible for mergers should fully understand the changing nature of employee language and behaviour. It is advisable they act on the assumption that employees are experiencing tensions resulting from the organisation's disturbed social reality.

Scholars and practitioners may adopt the conceptual framework and this case study's methodological approach to analyse a public service agency's various cultures, before, during, and after Machinery of Government (MoG) mergers or restructures, to pre‐empt, identify, and reduce cultural tensions, and should consider the feasibility of appointing a Workplace Change Committee.

Workplace Change Committee Members act like first responders across impacted departments and divisions within subcultures. Workplace Change Committee Members manage emerging issues, specifically cultural disparities to ensure both the intra‐ and interpersonal safety of employees impacted by MoG mergers.
Review article: Accuracy of emergency physician performed point‐of‐care ultrasound of the thoracic aorta: A systematic review and narrative synthesis of the literature
Authors: Thomas William , Henry Jonathan , Chew Jay Ee , Premaratne Manuja , Blecher Gabriel , Haji Darsim L
Published: June 2023

Point‐of‐care ultrasound (POCUS) is becoming ubiquitous in emergency medicine. POCUS for abdominal aortic aneurysm is well established in practice. The thoracic aorta can also be assessed by POCUS for dissection and aneurysm and transthoracic echocardiography is endorsed by international guidelines as an initial test for thoracic aortic pathologies. A systematic search of Ovid Medline, PubMed, EMBASE, SCOPUS and Web of Science from January 2000 to August 2022 identified four studies evaluating diagnostic accuracy of emergency physician POCUS for thoracic aortic dissection (TAD) and five studies for thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA). Study designs were heterogeneous including differing diagnostic criteria for aortic pathology. Convenience recruitment was frequent in prospective studies. Sensitivity and specificity ranges for studies of TAD were 41–91% and 94–100%, respectively when an intimal flap was seen. Sensitivity and specificity ranges for studies of thoracic aorta dilation >40 mm were 50–100% and 93–100%, respectively; for >45 mm ranges were 64–65% and 95–99%. Literature review identified that POCUS is specific for TAD and TAA. POCUS reduces the time to diagnosis of thoracic aortic pathology; however, it remains insensitive and cannot be recommended as a stand‐alone rule‐out test. We suggest that detection of thoracic aorta dilation >40 mm by POCUS at any site increases the suspicion of serious aortic pathology. Studies incorporating algorithmic use of POCUS, Aortic Dissection Detection Risk Score and D‐dimer as decision tools are promising and may improve current ED practices. Further research is warranted in this rapidly evolving field.