bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of requirements of graduates entering employment in Vysočina Region and region Upper Austria
Authors: Berková Kateřina , Frendlovská Dagmar , Kuncová Martina , Füreder Robert , Überwimmer Margarethe
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Currently, owing to the influence of rapid globalisation, the issue of international and cross-cultural implementation of cross-cultural relationships is being widely discussed. This is also related to the readiness of graduates for international cooperation. The objective of this qualitative study is to identify and compare the requirements of company representatives from the Czech Republic – the Vysocina Region and Austria (Region Upper Austria) regarding the readiness of graduates to entering the workforce and the intercultural differences between the relevant regions.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 20 Czech and Austrian companies from the relevant regions participated in the research. The results were obtained through in-depth guided interviews and a comparative method.

Findings

The qualitative study has theoretical implications in the context of new findings in the field of research. It contributes to the knowledge relating to the preparation of graduates for entering the workforce, and in the context of intercultural development, it extends this knowledge with the identified weaknesses of the mentioned preparation at the level of Czech or Austrian education.

Originality/value

The most effective and probable approach to enhance the development of cross-cultural competences in particular appears to be the integration of new techniques and content of education in the form of new subjects in cooperation with academics and practitioners from the particular country. Collaboration with these experts can build students' knowledge and skills from an intercultural environment to the highest degree possible.
Supplier goal commitment in performance-based contracts: the lens of goal-setting theory
Authors: Celik Hasan , Nowicki David R. , Uvet Hasan , Adana Saban , Cevikparmak Sedat
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study aims to empirically test the effects of key characteristics of performance-based contracting (PBC) (i.e. reward/payment scheme, increased supplier autonomy and transfer of responsibilities) on supplier goal commitment.

Design/methodology/approach

This study developed a conceptual model applying goal-setting theory (GST), expectancy theory (ET) and job characteristics theory (JCT). Survey data were collected and analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) to establish a validated measurement instrument for testing the hypotheses.

Findings

The findings revealed that PBC positively affects supplier goal commitment due to its unique characteristics, which translates into improved supplier performance. Furthermore, this study validated the mediating role of goal alignment and felt accountability operating between PBC characteristics and supplier goal commitment.

Research limitations/implications

This study explored the buyer–supplier relationship from the supplier's standpoint. Using a more inclusive data set, future research may involve a dyadic analysis and focus on the effects of the following factors on the supplier goal commitment: relational aspects (e.g. trust and collaboration), the risk transfer from the buyer to the supplier, different incentive schemes and successful PBC implementation factors.

Practical implications

This study presents new, validated insights for contract selection, design and management. It underlines the importance of choosing the proper contract, having the appropriate contract design based on the desired outcomes and effective contract management by exhibiting the psychological/behavioral effect of fundamental PBC characteristics.

Originality/value

PBC represents an active research stream, but its psychological/behavioral implications are understudied. Therefore, this research puts forth a conceptual framework with multiple testable hypotheses illustrating the relationship between PBC and supplier goal commitment.
The effect of thermal-elastic deformation on the sealing performance of supercritical CO2 dry gas seal
Authors: Wang Zengli , Wang Qingyang , Hao Muming , Li Xiaoying , Liu Kewei
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the sealing performance of S-CO2 dry gas seals (DGSs) by considering the effects of pressure-induced deformation, thermal deformation and coupling deformation.

Design/methodology/approach

A hydrodynamic lubrication flow model of S-CO2 DGS was established, and the model was solved using the finite difference and finite element methods. The pressure-induced deformation and thermal deformation of the sealing ring, as well as the sealing performance under the effects of pressure-induced deformation, thermal deformation and coupling deformation, were obtained.

Findings

The deformation of the sealing ring is mainly thermal deformation. The influence of pressure-induced deformation on leakage and gas film stiffness is greater than that of thermal deformation and coupling deformation. However, thermal deformation has a greater impact on friction torque and minimum film thickness than pressure-induced deformation and coupling deformation. The influence of deformations on sealing performance is important.

Originality/value

The sealing performance of S-CO2 DGSs was analyzed considering the effect of pressure-induced deformation, thermal deformation and coupling deformation, which can provide a theoretical basis for S-CO2 DGS optimization design.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-04-2023-0120/
Structural stiffness and equivalent viscous damping in a supercritical carbon dioxide lubricated hybrid journal bearing under hydrostatic status
Authors: Zhu Liming , Qiu Zhengmao , Chen Sheng , Wang Xiaojing , Huang Lingfeng , Chen Feiyu
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a type of hybrid bearing lubricated with supercritical carbon dioxide (S-CO2) and to investigate the stiffness and damping characteristics of the bearing under hydrostatic status.

Design/methodology/approach

Established a test rig for radial bearings lubricated with S-CO2 and used it to measure the dynamic coefficients by recording the relative and absolute displacements of bearing. Test bearing is mounted on a nonrotating, stiff shaft. Using static loading experiments to obtain structural stiffness. The dynamic coefficient regularities of the test bearing under hydrostatic status were revealed through dynamic loading experiments.

Findings

Experiment results indicate that test bearing displayed increased stiffness when subjected to high excitation frequencies and low excitation forces, as well as elevated damping when exposed to low excitation frequencies and low excitation forces. Additionally, an increase in either environmental pressure or hydrostatic recess pressure can elevate the dynamic coefficient. The effect of temperature on the dynamic coefficient is more pronounced around the critical temperature of S-CO2.

Originality/value

Designed a type of hybrid bearing for use in the Brayton cycle that is lubricated with S-CO2 and uses hydrostatic lubrication during start-stop and hydrodynamic lubrication during high-speed operation. The hybrid bearing reduces the wear and friction power consumption of gas bearing. However, few experimental analyses have been conducted by researchers in this field.
Identify the effect of government regulations on the live streaming e-commerce
Authors: Shou Minghuan , Yu Jie , Dai Ruinan
Published: September 2023

Purpose

On December 20, 2021, Viya, a social media influencer (SMI) with the largest number of followers in China, was exposed for having evaded RMB 643 million in taxes during 2019 and 2020. Consequently, she was fined a total of RMB 1.341 billion by the tax authorities. While the strict government regulations demonstrated in the Viya event may build confidence in the consumers for future purchases, the exposure of issues and problems through implementation of the stronger government regulations may warn consumers off. Thus, the main objective of this paper is to examine the effect of government regulations on consumers' usage intentions of live streaming e-commerce by taking the Viya event as an example.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors consider both the positive effect of consumers' perceived benefits of the government regulations and the negative effect of their perceived risks of the Viya event on the usage intentions of live streaming e-commerce. After collecting 314 subjects with diverse gender, ages, education levels and income profiles, the data are processed by partial least squares-based structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and SmartPLS software.

Findings

The results demonstrate that strict government regulations can build trust in consumers of live streaming e-commerce by increasing the perceived benefits of restricting the behavior of SMIs. Among the potential perceived risks (social risk, safety risk and psychological risk), the safety risk is supported to have a negative effect on consumers' trust in live streaming e-commerce platforms. Besides, the authors have also identified different types of usage intentions in live streaming e-commerce, i.e. watching intention and purchase intention, and have empirical support for the positive relationships between the consumers' trust in live streaming e-commerce platforms and different usage intentions.

Originality/value

The authors' findings contribute to the application of commitment-trust theory, institutional theory and organizational control theory in the context of the live streaming e-commerce industry. Particularly, the authors use the Viya event as an example to quantitatively examine the effects of strict government regulations, which enriches the existing literature on this topic.
Effective methods for detecting fraudulent financial reporting: practical insights from Big 4 auditors
Authors: Kassem Rasha , Omoteso Kamil
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Using a qualitative grounded theory approach, this study explores the methods experienced external auditors use to detect fraudulent financial reporting (FFR) during standard audits.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 24 experienced external auditors to explore the methods they used to detect FFR successfully during standard external audits.

Findings

The authors find 58 methods used for FFR detection, out of which the following methods are frequently used and help in detecting more than one type of FFR: (1) specific analytical procedures, (2) positive confirmation, (3) understanding of the client's business and industry, (4) the inspection of specific documents, (5) a detailed analysis of the audit client's anti-fraud controls and (6) investigating tip-offs from suppliers, employees and customers.

Research limitations/implications

Based on the grounded theory approach, the authors theorise that auditors must return to the basics and focus on specific audit procedures highlighted in this study for effective fraud detection.

Practical implications

The study provides practical guidance, including 58 methods used in audit practice to detect FFR. This knowledge can improve auditors' skills in detecting material misstatements due to fraud. Besides, analytical procedures and positive confirmation helped external auditors in this study detect all forms of FFR, yet they are overlooked in the external audit practice. Therefore, audit firms should emphasise the significance of these audit procedures in their professional audit training programmes. Audit regulators should advise auditors to consider positive confirmation instead of negative confirmation in financial audits to increase the likelihood of FFR detection. Moreover, audit standards (ISA 240 and SAS 99) should explicitly require auditors to conduct a detailed analysis of the client's anti-fraud controls.

Originality/value

This is the first study to identify actual, effective methods used by external auditors in detecting FFR during the ordinary course of an audit.
Poverty and financial development: an asymmetric and nonlinear ARDL analysis for India
Authors: Khanday Ishfaq Nazir , Tarique Md. , Wani Inayat Ullah , Dar Muzffar Hussain
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The primary objective of the paper is to examine the asymmetric Cointegration and asymmetric causality between financial development and poverty alleviation on annual data in Indian context over the period from 1980 to 2019.

Design/methodology/approach

First nonlinearity test by Brooks et al. (1999) is applied to ascertain the nonlinear behavior of the variables used. Once the nonlinear behavior of variables is confirmed, asymmetric and nonlinear unit root tests by Kapetanios and Shin (2008) are applied to check for the order of integration of selected variables. Next, nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag model (NARDL) is employed to analyze the asymmetric Cointegration. Finally, Hatemi-j- asymmetric causality tests is applied to work out the direction of asymmetric causality.

Findings

The empirical findings document the existence of asymmetries in the short-run as well as long-run between poverty and financial development. The asymmetry reveals that negative financial development shocks leave a more profound impact on poverty alleviation than their positive equivalents. The findings of Wald's test also confirm the presence of asymmetric Cointegration. The asymmetric cumulative dynamic multipliers used to examine the behavior of asymmetries and adjustments with respect to time lend credence to the results calculated using NARDL estimator. This result exhibits the robustness of the model. Furthermore, the result emanating from recently introduced asymmetric causality test reveals a unidirectional asymmetric causality between negative shocks in financial development and poverty. The findings of the present study necessitate the need for investigating asymmetric and nonlinear effects in finance–poverty nexus, which existent literature has completely neglected, in order to have relevant policy conclusions.

Research limitations/implications

The study used “Per capita consumption expenditure” as a measure for poverty due to lack of continuous time series data on headcount ratio. In future, researchers can extend this study by incorporating headcount ratio as a measure of poverty in their respective works. There is further scope of research on this issue by finding out the impact of formal and informal sources of credit on poverty separately. A panel data study for developing countries over a period of time could further confirm/negate the findings of the present study.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge none of the studies in Indian context has scrutinized asymmetric and nonlinear impact of financial development on poverty. To dredge up asymmetric structures at work, the authors have used the highly celebrated NARDL estimator. To enrich the existent body of knowledge along the lines of asymmetric (nonlinear) linkages, the authors have also used recently introduced asymmetric causality test by Hatemi-j-(2012) to find out the direction asymmetric causality.
Interplay between servant leadership, leader-member-exchange and perceived organizational support: a moderated mediation model
Authors: Nisar Khattak Mohammad , Al-Taie Moyassar Zuhair , Ahmed Ifzal , Muhammad Noor
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the effect of servant leadership on employee organizational identification and career satisfaction through the mediating lens of leader-member-exchange (LMX). Furthermore, this study also examines whether perceived organizational support (POS) strengthens the positive effect of servant leadership on LMX and subsequently, on employee organizational identification and career satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data were collected from 314 respondents working in hotels in United States of America (USA). Structural equation modeling (SEM), hierarchical moderation analysis and bootstrapping were used to test the study hypotheses.

Findings

Servant leadership was found to positively influence employee organizational identification and career satisfaction. Further, analysis revealed that LMX partially mediated the positive relationship between servant leadership and employee career satisfaction and fully mediated the positive relationship between servant leadership and organizational identification. However, although POS moderated the indirect relationship between servant leadership and employee’ career satisfaction, it did not moderate the indirect relationships between servant leadership and organizational identification.

Practical implications

This study provides insight into the nexus of servant leadership and organizational support in hospitality industry to foster the employee organizational identification and career satisfaction which are extremely needed for competitive advantage in hotel industry.

Originality/value

This study addresses recent calls for future researchers to investigate the important of servant leadership in the hospitality industry.
Entrepreneurial solutions to social problems: philosophy versus management as a guiding paradigm for social enterprise success
Authors: Müller Michal , Vaseková Veronika , Kročil Ondřej
Published: September 2023

Purpose

In societies marked by inequality, organizations use management techniques and business strategies for sustainability, social impact and ethical activities, with stakeholders often promoting education to effectively address these challenges. This paper establishes an original relation between the development of social entrepreneurship and a deep philosophical comprehension of human existence. Going beyond conventional management theories, the authors demonstrate that specific existential ideas and other philosophical underpinnings provide powerful guiding principles, portraying entrepreneurship as a method to address the underlying social and environmental issues driving inequality.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on an analysis of relevant articles and is supported by qualitative research on social entrepreneurship. The stories of social entrepreneurs represent good practice in applying the values and insights discussed in modern approaches.

Findings

Social entrepreneurs are relentlessly seeking innovative pathways to develop their enterprises. Their intrinsic drive for social entrepreneurship and their unwavering commitment to solidarity are undeniably more aligned with philosophical approaches to management than with the confines of traditional positivist foundations.

Practical implications

Leveraging philosophical approaches that intricately resonate with the ethical and value-driven compass of social entrepreneurs, as opposed to the constraints of conventional managerial methods, holds immense potential in shaping the training and skill development of these impactful visionaries.

Originality/value

The authors' study unveils fresh insights into how social entrepreneurs adeptly navigate interpersonal connections, handle uncertainties and address the paradoxical situations intrinsic to their entrepreneurial efforts to confront social issues.
A mixed study on the “wow” of impulse purchase on Instagram: insights from Gen-Z in a collectivistic environment
Authors: Muhammad Abubakar Sadiq , Adeshola Ibrahim , Isiaku Labaran
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Generation Z (Gen-Z), sometimes known as “digital natives”, represents the first generation to become immersed in digital communication. In a multicultural environment, this study aims to explore which types of factors are most beneficial in connection with Gen-Z’s impulsive purchase behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts an exploratory sequential mixed-method design, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative approaches. In Study 1, focus group discussions are conducted to address “why” and “how” questions, whereas Study 2 uses a quantitative method to test the hypothetical model. The model is assessed using structural equation modelling. This study used the stimulus–organism–response (SOR) framework in the context of Instagram.

Findings

Building on Mehrabian and Russell’s (1974) concept and focus group discussions, Study 1 introduces a novel SOR model tailored to Instagram. In Study 2, the model is tested, and results confirm most hypotheses, except for three. Factors such as aesthetic appeal, scarcity promotions and discounted prices stimulate impulse buying behaviour in Gen-Z. Positive emotional responses evoked by these factors also influence impulse buying, whereas the impact of negative emotional responses is found to be insignificant.

Originality/value

This mixed-methods study enhances the theoretical understanding of Gen-Zers’ impulse buying behaviour by highlighting the influence of diverse independent variables. By using the SOR framework, it reveals the intricate emotional aspects impacting impulsive purchase decisions. The research provides new insights into online impulsive buying behaviour, particularly relevant to consumer psychology and behavioural economics among young collectivist consumers.
A morphometric approach to morphology analysis of palatal rugae in sibling groups
Authors: Tey Sock Nee , Syed Mohamed Alizae Marny Fadzlin , Marizan Nor Murshida
Published: September 2023

Recent advances in imaging technologies, such as intra‐oral surface scanning, have rapidly generated large datasets of high‐resolution three‐dimensional (3D) sample reconstructions. These datasets contain a wealth of phenotypic information that can provide an understanding of morphological variation and evolution. The geometric morphometric method (GMM) with landmarks and the development of sliding and surface semilandmark techniques has greatly enhanced the quantification of shape. This study aimed to determine whether there are significant differences in 3D palatal rugae shape between siblings. Digital casts representing 25 pairs of full siblings from each group, male–male (MM), female–female (FF), and female–male (FM), were digitized and transferred to a GM system. The palatal rugae were determined, quantified, and visualized using GMM computational tools with MorphoJ software (University of Manchester). Principal component analysis (PCA) and canonical variates analysis (CVA) were employed to analyze palatal rugae shape variability and distinguish between sibling groups based on shape. Additionally, regression analysis examined the potential impact of shape on palatal rugae. The study revealed that the palatal rugae shape covered the first nine of the PCA by 71.3%. In addition, the size of the palatal rugae has a negligible impact on its shape. Whilst palatal rugae are known for their individuality, it is noteworthy that three palatal rugae (right first, right second, and left third) can differentiate sibling groups, which may be attributed to genetics. Therefore, it is suggested that palatal rugae morphology can serve as forensic identification for siblings.
Comparison of surf lifesaver pressure point control and a commercial arterial tourniquet for major lower limb haemorrhage: A randomised controlled crossover pilot trial
Authors: Furness James , Abery Philip , Kemp‐Smith Kevin , Bruce Kimberly , Lamond David , Taylor Nicholas , Jones Philip , Snelling Peter J
Published: September 2023

Objective

This pilot study compared non‐medically trained surf lifesavers' (SLS) ability, after infographic training, to occlude the femoral artery using a pressure point (PP) versus an arterial tourniquet (AT).

Methods

Using a crossover design, eight SLS applied PP and AT to a participant's leg to occlude the femoral artery. Arterial flow, application time and perceived difficulty were recorded.

Results

PP achieved 89.7% and 50.8% blood flow reduction for PP and AT, respectively. Average application time was 50.63 and 113.5 s for PP and AT, respectively. Perceived difficulty using a Likert scale from 0 to 10 (0 being no difficulty and 10 being maximal difficulty) was 2.75 and 3.50 for PP and AT, respectively.

Conclusion

Infographic‐trained SLS showed superior blood flow occlusion using PP. This pilot study will inform a larger trial for untrained beachgoers.
Ripretinib for the treatment of advanced, imatinib‐resistant gastrointestinal stromal tumors
Authors: Liu Wei Zhen , Du Yu Qiang , Shen Qian , Tao Kai Xiong , Zhang Peng
Published: September 2023

Discovery of constitutive activation of KIT/PDGFRA tyrosine kinases in gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) leads to the development of the targeted drug imatinib. However, the inevitable development of imatinib resistance remains a major issue. Ripretinib is a novel targeted drug that inhibits the activities of a broad spectrum of drug‐resistant KIT/PDGFRA mutants. It was approved in 2020 and is currently recommended by major international guidelines as the fourth‐line and beyond therapy for advanced GISTs. Emerging evidence shows that ripretinib is superior to sunitinib as a second‐line treatment for KIT exon 11‐mutated GISTs due to its activity against highly heterogeneous frequently occurring secondary mutations. This review summarizes current data on the use of ripretinib to treat advanced imatinib‐resistant GISTs. We also propose future research directions to improve the targeted GIST treatment.
Helcionelloids from the Cambrian Fortunian of the Northern Yangtze Platform, China
Authors: ZHANG Mengshao , PANG Yanchun , YANG Ben , HE Yangjian , LIANG Siyu , HU Qiang , LIN Li
Published: September 2023

A study of the morphological and microstructural characteristics of helcionelloids from the Nanjiang area (north Sichuan, China) at the northern Yangtze Platform was undertaken, in order to understand their phylogenetic position. Helcionelloids fossils from the Kuanchuanpu Formation of the Changtanhe–Maolinzi section include 7 genera and 11 species. There are distinct differences in the degree of shell bending, the apical morphology and apex position, the outline of the aperture and the height of the shell, all of which constitute important identification features. Although helcionelloid apices exhibit varying degrees of rotation towards the aperture, they do not show any signs of evident distortion. A pair of basally‐symmetrical muscle scars are discovered on the shells of helcionelloids (such as Bemella simplex), showing a distinct difference when compared with those of the stem‐group gastropod (e.g., Pelagiella). The prismatic shell layer of helcionelloids has been observed, which are common components in Cambrian molluscs, but differ significantly from the dense layer microstructure found in contemporary molluscs. The microstructures, muscle scars and morphological characteristics demonstrate that helcionelloids represent a stem‐group of molluscs.
Metallogenic Age and Ore‐forming Material Sources of the Dahongshan Fe‐Cu Deposit, Yunnan Province: Insights from Molybdenite Re‐Os Dating and H‐O‐S‐Pb Isotopes
Authors: YE Zifeng , YANG Guangshu , YU Wenxiu , CHEN Aibing , JIA Fuju
Published: September 2023

The Dahongshan Fe‐Cu (‐Au) deposit is a superlarge deposit in the Kangdian metallogenic belt, southwestern China, comprising approximately 458 Mt of Fe ores (40% Fe) and 1.35 Mt Cu. Two main types of Fe‐Cu (‐Au) mineralization are present in the Dahongshan deposit: (1) early submarine volcanic exhalation and sedimentary mineralization characterized by strata‐bound fine‐grained magnetite and banded Fe‐Cu sulfide (pyrite and chalcopyrite) hosted in the Na‐rich metavolcanic rocks; (2) late hydrothermal (‐vein) type mineralization characterized by Fe‐Cu sulfide veins in the hosted strata or massive coarse‐grained magnetite orebodies controlled by faults. While previous studies have focused primarily on the early submarine volcanic and sedimentary mineralization of the deposit, data related to late hydrothermal mineralization is lacking. In order to establish the metallogenic age and ore‐forming material source of the late hydrothermal (‐vein) type mineralization, this paper reports the Re‐Os dating of molybdenite from the late hydrothermal vein Fe‐Cu orebody and H, O, S, and Pb isotopic compositions of the hydrothermal quartz‐sulfide veins. The primary aim of this study was to establish the metallogenic age and ore‐forming material source of the hydrothermal type orebody. Results show that the molybdenite separated from quartz‐sulfide veins has a Re‐Os isochron age of 831 ± 11 Ma, indicating that the Dahongshan Fe‐Cu deposit experienced hydrothermal superimposed mineralization in Neoproterozoic. The molybdenite has a Re concentration of 99.7–382.4 ppm, indicating that the Re of the hydrothermal vein ores were primarily derived from the mantle. The δ34S values of sulfides from the hydrothermal ores are 2‰–8‰ showing multi‐peak tower distribution, suggesting that S in the ore‐forming period was primarily derived from magma and partially from calcareous sedimentary rock. Furthermore, the abundance of radioactive Pb increased significantly from ore‐bearing strata to layered and hydrothermal vein ores, which may be related to the later hydrothermal transformation. The composition of H and O isotopes within the hydrothermal quartz indicates that the ore‐forming fluid is a mixture of magmatic water and a small quantity of water. These results further indicate that the late hydrothermal orebodies were formed by the Neoproterozoic magmatic hydrothermal event, which might be related to the breakup of the Rodinia supercontinent. Mantle derived magmatic hydrothermal fluid extracted ore‐forming materials from the metavolcanic rocks of Dahongshan Group and formed the hydrothermal (‐vein) type Fe‐Cu orebodies by filling and metasomatism.
Geochronology and Geochemistry of Ore‐related Granitoids in the Giant Gariatong Rb Deposit, Tibet and Implications for Rb Metallogeny in China
Authors: LIN Bin , TANG Juxing , TANG Pan , SUN Yan , QI Jing , SANTOSH M. , XIE Jinling , DENG Shilin , LI Faqiao , XIE Fuwei , ZHOU Aorigele
Published: September 2023

Rubidium (Rb) deposits mostly occur in the South China and Central Asia orogenic belts and are often closely associated with highly differentiated granites. This study investigates a newly‐discovered giant Rb deposit at Gariatong in the Central Lhasa terrane in Tibet. Detailed field studies and logging data revealed that the Rb mineralization mainly occurs in monzogranite and is related to greisenization. LA‐ICP‐MS U‐Pb dating of zircon yielded ages of 19.1 ± 0.2 Ma and 19.0 ± 0.2 Ma for greisenized monzogranite and fresh monzogranite, respectively. The monzogranites are characterized as strongly peraluminous, with high contents of SiO2, Al2O3, K2O and Na2O as well as a high differentiation index. They are enriched in light rare earth and large ion lithophile elements with significant negative Eu anomalies and depleted high field‐strength elements. Petrological and geochemical features of these ore‐related monzogranites suggest that they are highly fractionated S‐type granites, derived from remelting of crustal materials in a post‐collisional setting. The geochemistry of zircon and apatite points to a low oxygen fugacity of the ore‐related monzogranite during the magma's evolution. The discovery of the Gariatong Rb deposit suggests that the Central Lhasa terrane may be an important region for rare metal mineralization.
Alcohol cues increase behavioral economic demand and craving for alcohol in nontreatment‐seeking and treatment‐seeking heavy drinkers
Authors: Marsden Emma , Murphy James G. , MacKillop James , Amlung Michael
Published: September 2023

Background

Behavioral economic research has revealed significant increases in alcohol demand following exposure to alcohol‐related cues. Prior research has focused exclusively on nontreatment‐seeking heavy drinkers, included only male participants, or used heterogeneous methods. The current studies sought to replicate and extend existing findings in treatment‐seeking and nontreatment‐seeking heavy drinkers while also examining sex effects and moderation by alcohol use disorder (AUD) severity.

Methods

Study 1 included 117 nontreatment‐seeking heavy drinkers (51.5% women; M age 34.69; 56.4% AUD+), and Study 2 included 89 treatment‐seeking heavy drinkers with AUD (40.4% women; M age = 41.35). In both studies, alcohol demand was measured using a hypothetical alcohol purchase task (APT), and subjective alcohol craving was measured using visual analog scales. Measures were collected following exposure to neutral (water) cues in a standard room and alcohol cues in a bar lab.

Results

Alcohol demand (intensity, Omax, breakpoint, and elasticity) and craving were significantly increased following alcohol cues compared to neutral cues (ps < 0.005) with effect sizes ranging from small to large (ηp2 = 0.074–0.480). Participants with AUD (Study 1) or with higher AUD severity (Study 2) reported higher craving and higher demand for most indices (i.e., main effects; ps < 0.032, ηp2 = 0.043–0.239). A larger alcohol cue increase in Omax was found for AUD+ participants in Study 1 compared to non‐AUD participants (p = 0.028, ηp2 = 0.041) but not for any other indices in Study 1 or Study 2. There were no significant sex effects.

Conclusions

These findings replicate and extend prior research by offering additional insight into alcohol cue effects on the reinforcing value of alcohol and subjective motivation to drink. The results also suggest that sex and AUD severity do not meaningfully impact cue effects across most indices of demand.
Liquidity ratios and corporate failures
Authors: Li Ken
Published: September 2023

One of the most widespread claims in financial statement analysis is that liquidity ratios are useful for predicting failures. However, academic research has found surprisingly little empirical support for this claim. Using logistic regression splines, a non‐parametric method, this paper finds that the relation between the current ratio and failures differs significantly depending on the level of the current ratio. At low, but not high levels, the current ratio is significantly negatively related to failure. Incorporating such context provides statistically and economically significant predictive power about failures. These findings help resolve the discrepancy between practitioners and the academic literature.
Expanding student access to field experiences: Virtual ethnographic field schools
Authors: Lyons Barry J.
Published: September 2023

New and newly widespread communications technologies make it possible for students to enjoy many of the benefits of an ethnographic field school with less commitment of money and time, thereby expanding access to a valuable cross‐cultural research experience. This article reflects on the challenges, successes, limitations, and lessons learned from Wayne State University's Virtual Ethnographic Field School in Highland Ecuador, considers an alternative model, and sketches various field school pedagogical and design options.
Transperineal template saturation and conventional biopsy for stage prediction in prostate cancer
Authors: Lehner Fabienne , Crippa Alessio , Sigg Silvan , Eberli Daniel , Mortezavi Ashkan
Published: September 2023

Objective

To evaluate the performance of risk calculators (RCs) predicting lymph node invasion (LNI) and extraprostatic extension (EPE) in men undergoing transperineal magnetic resonance imaging/transrectal ultrasound (TRUS)‐fusion template saturation biopsy (TTSB) and conventional systematic TRUS‐guided biopsy (SB).

Patients and Methods

The RCs were tested in a consecutive cohort of 645 men undergoing radical prostatectomy with extended pelvic LN dissection between 2005 and 2019. TTSB was performed in 230 (35.7%) and SB in 415 (64.3%) men. Risk of LNI and EPE was calculated using the available RCs. Discrimination, calibration, and clinical usefulness stratified by different biopsy techniques were assessed.

Results

Lymph node invasion was observed in 23 (10%) and EPE in 73 (31.8%) of cases with TTSB and 53 (12.8%) and 158 (38%) with SB, respectively. RCs showed an excellent discrimination and acceptable calibration for prediction of LNI based on TTSB (area under the curve [AUC]/risk estimation: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center [MSKCC]‐RC 0.79/−4%, Briganti (2012)‐RC 0.82/−4%, Gandaglia‐RC 0.81/+6%). These were comparable in SB (MSKCC‐RC 0.78/+2%; Briganti (2012)‐RC 0.77/−3%). Decision curve analysis (DCA) revealed a net benefit at threshold probabilities between 3% and 6% when TTSB was used. For prediction of EPE based on TTSB an inferior discrimination and variable calibration were observed (AUC/risk estimation: MSKCC‐RC 0.71/+8% and Martini (2018)‐RC 0.69/+2%) achieving a net benefit on DCA only at risk thresholds of >17%. Performance of RCs for prediction of LNI and EPE based on SB showed comparable results with a better performance in the DCA for LNI (risk thresholds 1–2%) and poorer performance for EPE (risk threshold >20%). This study is limited by its retrospective single‐institution design.

Conclusions

The potentially more accurate grading ability of TTSB did not result in improved performance of preoperative RCs. Prediction tools for LNI proved clinical usefulness while RCs for EPE did not.
Adipose tissue as a therapeutic target for vascular damage in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Bettinetti‐Luque Miriam , Trujillo‐Estrada Laura , Garcia‐Fuentes Eduardo , Andreo‐Lopez Juana , Sanchez‐Varo Raquel , Garrido‐Sánchez Lourdes , Gómez‐Mediavilla Ángela , López Manuela G. , Garcia‐Caballero Melissa , Gutierrez Antonia , Baglietto‐Vargas David
Published: September 2023

Adipose tissue has recently been recognized as an important endocrine organ that plays a crucial role in energy metabolism and in the immune response in many metabolic tissues. With this regard, emerging evidence indicates that an important crosstalk exists between the adipose tissue and the brain. However, the contribution of adipose tissue to the development of age‐related diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, remains poorly defined. New studies suggest that the adipose tissue modulates brain function through a range of endogenous biologically active factors known as adipokines, which can cross the blood–brain barrier to reach the target areas in the brain or to regulate the function of the blood–brain barrier. In this review, we discuss the effects of several adipokines on the physiology of the blood–brain barrier, their contribution to the development of Alzheimer's disease and their therapeutic potential.

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed issue From Alzheimer's Disease to Vascular Dementia: Different Roads Leading to Cognitive Decline. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v181.6/issuetoc
Hsp70‐Bim incoherent feedforward loop contributes to cell‐fate heterogeneity and fractional killing
Authors: Yin Fangkui , Song Ting , Wang Ziqian , Liu Jingjing , Zhang Hong , Tang Yao , Zhang Zhichao
Published: September 2023

Background and Purpose

Although chemotherapeutics or molecular targeted drugs often elicit profound initial responses, fractional killing capable of driving acquired resistance can persist. Identifying stress‐induced negative feedback or an incoherent feedforward loop (IFFL), which may contribute to fractional killing, is urgently needed.

Experimental Approach

Mathematical modelling was used to identify how and to what extent a recently reported Hsp70‐Bim protein–protein interaction (PPI) contributes to the adaptation of the Bcl‐2 network. Experimental validation was made by using a specific inhibitor of Hsp70‐Bim PPI, S1g‐2, as chemical tool. Bifurcation analysis and stochastic simulation were used for the theoretical study of the impact of Hsp70‐Bim PPI on cell‐fate heterogeneity and factional killing.

Key Results

The Hsp70‐Bim‐AKT circuit forms an IFFL that greatly contributes to the adaptation of the Bcl‐2‐regulated apoptosis network, thus leading to fractional killing. This adaptive programme enhances noise‐induced cell‐fate heterogeneity by shifting from a saddle‐node to a saddle‐collision transition scenario.

Conclusion and Implications

Hsp70‐Bim IFFL serves as a molecular pathway induced by DNA damaging drugs or tyrosine kinase inhibitors that enabled fractional killing, whereby acquired resistance emerges. A synergistic strategy is unveiled for overcoming fractional killing by suppressing Hsp70‐Bim PPI.
Cyclodextrin based nanoparticles for smart drug delivery in colorectal cancer
Authors: Marabada Davies , Li Jinlei , Wei Shijie , Huang Qing , Wang Zhizhong
Published: September 2023

The advancement of colorectal cancer (CRC) prevention, detection, and treatment is essential to ensure that survivors live longer and higher‐quality lives. The field of cancer detection and therapy has undergone a revolution with the development of nanotechnology for targeted drug delivery. The significant problems with the delivery of cancer drugs are their solubility, stability, and nonspecific distribution. There is a challenge that the acidic and enzymatic environment in the digestive tract will modify or destroy the medication or the active pharmaceutical ingredient. To overcome the problems, nanoparticles have been widely employed during the past several years to increase the specificity, selectivity, and controlled release of drug delivery systems. The site‐specific and targeted delivery leads to reduce toxicity and side effects. With respect to the capability and utilization of cyclodextrin‐based nanoparticles in different aspects of the tumour microenvironment and gut microbiota, a survey of current research papers was conducted via looking through databases including GoogleScholar, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus. This review aims to summarize cutting‐edge nanoparticulate‐based technologies and therapies for CRC.
Recent progress in the development of ursolic acid derivatives as anti‐diabetes and anti‐cardiovascular agents
Authors: Dai Yili , Sun Linjun , Tan Yan , Xu Wenyu , Liu Shu , Zhou Jing , Hu Yalin , Lin Jieying , Yao Xu , Mi Pengbing , Zheng Xing
Published: September 2023

Ursolic acid (UA) is a pentacyclic triterpenoid, which exhibits many biological activities, particularly in anti‐cardiovascular and anti‐diabetes. The further application of UA is greatly limited due to its low bioavailability and poor water solubility. Up to date, various UA derivatives have been designed to overcome these shortcomings. In this paper, the authors reviewed the development of UA derivatives as the anti‐diabetes anti‐cardiovascular reagents.
Investigation of pre‐operative demographic, biochemical, sonographic and cytopathological findings in low‐risk thyroid neoplasms
Authors: Deniz Muzaffer Serdar , Özdemir Didem , İmga Narin Nasıroğlu , Başer Hüsniye , Çuhacı Seyrek Fatma Neslihan , Altınboğa Ayşegül Aksoy , Topaloğlu Oya , Ersoy Reyhan , Çakır Bekir
Published: September 2023

Objective

The present article analyses pre‐operative demographic, biochemical, sonographic and histopathological characteristics of low‐risk thyroid neoplasms (LRTNs), with a focus on four subgroups, “well‐differentiated carcinoma‐not otherwise specified” (WDC‐NOS), “non‐invasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary like nuclear features” (NIFTP), “well‐differentiated tumours of uncertain malignant potential” (WDT‐UMP) and “follicular tumour of uncertain malignant potential” (FT‐UMP).

Methods

The study retrospectively analyzed the histopathology of 2453 malignant thyroids and the final analyses included 99 cases diagnosed with LRTNs. The demographic and clinical features, pre‐operative thyroid function, ultrasonography results, cytopathology results, histopathology results and prognostic classifications were assessed.

Results

The groups were similar demographic characteristics and the majority of clinical data, including comorbidities, thyroid function tests, thyroid cancer/neck radiotherapy history. NIFTPs represented 69.7% of all LRTNs. All (100%) WDT‐UMPs had solitary nodules. Index nodule volume differed among the groups (p = .036), it was the lowest in WDC‐NOS [0.68 (0.63–0.72 cc)] and highest in FT‐UMP [12.6 (0.5–64 cc)]. Echogenicity findings were similar. Index nodule TIRADS demonstrated a significant difference (p = .021) but index nodule halo sign and BETHESDA scores were similar in all groups. The diameter, localisation and multicentric structure of LRTNs were again similar for all groups. Finally, prognostic scores suggested similar outcomes in all groups.

Conclusion

The majority of LRTNs were NIFTPs in our population and all WDT‐UMPs were solitary lesions. Index nodule volume was the most essential discriminating sonographic finding but further research must be performed before discriminatory potential can be described.
Anti‐Mullerian hormone and spontaneous puberty in a diverse US Turner syndrome clinic cohort: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Bustamante Victoria H. , Galetaki Despoina M. , Dowlut‐McElroy Tazim , Kanakatti Shankar Roopa
Published: September 2023

Objective

Serum Anti‐Mullerian Hormone (AMH) concentrations have been proposed as a marker of spontaneous puberty and future fertility in Turner syndrome (TS). Gonadotropins during minipuberty may also provide a clue to ovarian function but there is insufficient data to inform utility in the routine clinical management of TS. Our objective was to describe the distribution of AMH in a cross‐sectional cohort of patients in a TS specialty clinic, and correlate with spontaneous puberty and karyotype, as well as gonadotropins during the minipuberty of infancy in a smaller subset of patients aged 2−9 months.

Design

Retrospective chart review of patients seen in the TS clinic at Children's National Hospital from 1/1/2019 to 8/24/2022, to assess AMH and correlate with karyotype and spontaneous puberty.

Results

Among 114 patients (median age 9.6 year, 0.08−22 year), AMH values were detectable in only (40/104) 38%, and higher mean AMH (2.7 ± 0.95 ng/mL) was seen in mosaic 45,X/46,XX karyotype compared to 45,X (0.03 ± 0.14 ng/mL) (p < .001), and structurally abnormal‐X karyotype (0.11 ± 0.5) (p = .0003). Mean AMH was higher (1.4 ± 1.6 ng/mL) among those with spontaneous menarche compared with spontaneous thelarche but no menarche. AMH was detectable in 2/10 during minipuberty in those with the lowest luteinizing hormone (LH).

Conclusions

Our institutional data reflects a diverse cohort of patients seen in a TS specialty clinic in the United States, showing correlation of AMH with karyotype and spontaneous menarche, as well as description of gonadotropins during minipuberty highlighting their clinical relevance. Studies in larger, prospective longitudinal cohorts will help determine their predictive value and role in the care of TS.
Deinstitutionalization of children in residential care facilities: Experiences and perceptions of professionals in Ghana
Authors: Frimpong‐Manso Kwabena , Cudjoe Ebenezer , Agbadi Pascal , Abdullah Alhassan , Deliege Antoine , Bansal Avantee
Published: September 2023

According to the literature, the success of deinstitutionalization (DI) practices in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) is dependent on key factors including, a well‐functioning family‐based alternative care and social protection system, adequate funding and resources, and professional and other stakeholders' engagement and support. Following a practice research qualitative method, the study explored practitioner's experiences and perceptions on the status of Ghana's ongoing DI efforts and their recommendations for improving implementation. The study's main themes were establishing the need for residential homes for children (RHCs), RHCs not being an ideal family environment and RHCs as respite. Family marital problems, poor financial situation, stigma attached to some children in care, abusive parents and a lack of suitable alternatives when families have a crisis were identified as key factors that impede DI implementation in Ghana. The findings suggest the need for a progressive approach towards DI implementation in LMICs, with the first step being the re‐positioning of RHCs as respite care centres while progressively developing other alternative family‐based care options (such as kinship care) for children.