bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the impact of environmental dimension in corporate social responsibility on restaurants’ customer retention
Authors: Omidvar Mohammadsadegh , Ghasemi Vahid , Frau Moreno
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to integrate the four-dimensional corporate social responsibility (economic, legal, ethical and philanthropic responsibility) with environmental responsibility. It also aims to measure how service quality and corporate image mediate the effects of the five CSR dimensions on customer retention.

Design/methodology/approach

This research employs structural equation modelling to test the proposed conceptual model. About 217 valid questionnaires were collected online from customers of restaurants in Tehran.

Findings

The results show that legal, ethical, philanthropic and environmental dimensions positively and significantly impact corporate image and service quality. Moreover, corporate image and service quality mediate the effects of the five CSR dimensions on customer retention.

Practical implications

Managers may learn that by enhancing their environmental responsibility, they are also working on increasing service quality and corporate image and, in turn, customer retention. Restaurants can differentiate themselves from competitors and attract and retain environmentally conscious customers, ultimately contributing to their competitive advantage.

Originality/value

This research extends Carroll’s dimensions by incorporating environmental responsibility, demonstrating its potential to boost service quality and corporate image for customer retention. A noteworthy contribution is introducing environmental responsibility as a novel dimension of CSR within the restaurant and food industry. Recognising the increasing importance of environmental sustainability in academic and societal discourse, it was crucial to consider the environment as a distinct aspect of this research.
Fostering career crafting by developmental HR practices: the mediating role of future work self and moderating role of AI awareness
Authors: Yang Chengchuan , Luo Ziyi , Xu Nan , Tang Chunyong
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The deep integration of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) has triggered a transformation in career patterns, requiring employees to promptly adapt to changes in the vocational environment through career crafting. While human resource (HR) practices play a role in guiding employees' career self-management, further exploration is needed to determine the specific HR practices that organizations should adopt to facilitate employees' career crafting. This research takes developmental HR practices as a new premise for career crafting and examines the underlying mechanisms influencing the relationship between the two.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a three-stage time lag method with a two-month lag in each stage, we collected sample data from 386 employees in the intelligent manufacturing industry and employed multiple regression analysis to test the research hypotheses.

Findings

The results of this paper show that developmental HR practices positively influence employees' career crafting behaviors through their future work self and that AI awareness moderates this relationship.

Originality/value

Drawing upon career construction theory, we propose that developmental HR practices cultivate employees' future work self, thereby eliciting career crafting behaviors. Moreover, the mediating role of future work self is more pronounced when employees have a high level of AI awareness, as this awareness stimulates self-cognition-driven behaviors. These findings enrich the understanding of career crafting by shedding light on the career construction process in the relationship between developmental HR practices and career crafting and by identifying the boundary conditions for the relationship.
Appraising the application of cryptocurrency technologies in the Nigerian built environment: stakeholders’ perspective
Authors: Ebekozien Andrew , Aigbavboa Clinton , Thwala Wellington Didibhuku , Samsurijan Mohamad Shaharudin , Ahmed Mohamed Ahmed Hafez , Aliu John , Adekunle Samuel Adeniyi
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Twenty-first century digitalisation birthed new methods of payment systems like the emergence of cryptocurrencies. Cryptocurrency technologies have been identified as drivers for crypto-smart contracts and procurements. Studies regarding the application of cryptocurrency technologies in the Nigerian built environment industry are uncommon. Therefore, this paper aims to explore the relevance of cryptocurrency technologies to the sector, examine the perceived barriers that may hinder cryptocurrency technologies implementation and propose measures to promote the applications.

Design/methodology/approach

The research conducted a virtual interview across Abuja and Lagos cities to appraise stakeholders’ perceptions. The interviewees were requested to proffer answers to the research questions. The study conducted 25 semi-structured interviews with knowledgeable stakeholders. The data were analysed, and findings were reported in themes.

Findings

Enhanced the era of smart contracts, increased liquidity for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and new openings to raise more funds for capital-intensive construction projects emerged as the advantages where cryptocurrency technologies can benefit the sector if allowed to operate. Cryptocurrency technology applications are not without some anticipated hindrances. Risk of loss of investment/price instability, lack of intrinsic value, money laundering, attracting speculators, criminal activities/security issues, lack of clarity and awareness and lack of skills emerged as the frequently anticipated barriers that may hinder cryptocurrency technologies applications.

Research limitations/implications

The study is limited to cryptocurrency technology applications in Nigeria’s built environment, and a qualitative method has been adopted.

Originality/value

Besides uncovering barriers hindering cryptocurrency technology usage via an unexplored mechanism, the study is one of the few studies to proffer measures to improve cryptocurrency technology usage in the built environment.
Is employment protection legislation a driver or an inhibitor of entrepreneurship? The interaction between stringency and enforcement
Authors: Congregado Emilio , Rodriguez-Santiago Ana , Román Concepción
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to revisit the relationship between the stringency of employment protection legislation and entrepreneurship at the macro-level using time series data from 28 OECD countries.

Design/methodology/approach

To address model uncertainty, a Bayesian model averaging methodology is employed, overcoming issues related to predictor selection. Additionally, the study delves into the interaction between employment protection legislation and the rule of law, considering potential unintended consequences and overlapping effects. Heterogeneity within self-employment is explored, making a distinction between solo self-employment and employer entrepreneurship.

Findings

The findings reveal that the impact of employment protection legislation, both for regular and temporary employment, on aggregate solo self-employment rates is contingent upon the level of practical regulatory compliance. The legislation can either stimulate or hinder entrepreneurship, highlighting the nuanced nature of its influence on macro-level entrepreneurial activities.

Practical implications

The results of this study provide valuable insights for policymakers and regulators by emphasizing the complexity of the relationships under consideration. Understanding the potential interactions between employment protection legislation, rule of law and practical regulatory compliance is crucial for designing an effective and conducive regulatory environment for entrepreneurship.

Originality/value

This research offers a unique contribution to the literature in three distinct ways: by addressing model uncertainty through Bayesian model averaging, examining the interaction between employment protection legislation and the rule of law and differentiating between solo self-employment and employer entrepreneurship. These distinctive elements enhance the originality and value of the study, providing a more nuanced understanding of the intricate relationship between legal frameworks and macro-level entrepreneurship.
Do US cross-listings, IFRS adoption and domestic investor protection impact earnings management?
Authors: Opare Solomon , Safiullah Md , Houqe Muhammad , van Zijl Tony
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This paper investigates the impact of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) adoption and domestic investor protection on the relationship between United States (US) cross-listing and earnings management.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper applies ordinary least squares (OLS) regression analyses to a matched sample of cross-listed and non-cross-listed firms from 2000 to 2018, covering 38 countries.

Findings

We find that US cross-listed firms have lower real earnings management. The results also show that real earnings management is lower for US cross-listed firms that adopt IFRS and from high domestic investor protection countries. Our results further show that real earnings management is higher when cross-listed firms use Level 1 American Depository Receipts (ADRs) to cross-list but adopting IFRS and high domestic investor protection help reduce real earnings management. Using the SEC’s Rule 12h-6 as a quasi-natural experiment, we document that post-12h-6 Rule, firms in high domestic investor protection countries experience a reduction in both accruals and real earnings management. However, the result is the opposite in countries with low investor protection.

Originality/value

Our findings have implications for regulators and policymakers on the impact of ADR levels and Rule 12h-6 on earnings management.
Nexus supplier transparency and supply network accessibility: effects on buyer ESG risk exposure
Authors: Diego Jesus , Montes-Sancho Maria J.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This paper investigates the role of nexus supplier transparency, which involves the collective information disclosure to the public by second-tier nexus suppliers, as an alternative mechanism for mitigating buyer environmental, social and governance (ESG) risk exposure. We also examine buyer supply network accessibility as a moderating factor that facilitates collecting detailed information and undertaking corrective actions accordingly.

Design/methodology/approach

We collected a sample of 428 focal buyer firms and their supply networks up to third-tier suppliers. Data were obtained from Bloomberg and RepRisk databases. We identified critical nexus suppliers using data envelopment analysis (DEA) and tested hypotheses using regression analysis.

Findings

The results show that the benefits of nexus supplier transparency, such as reducing buyer ESG risk exposure, differ depending on the type of nexus supplier disclosing information and buyer supply network accessibility. Informational nexus supplier transparency was found to be beneficial. However, the results revealed the double-edged sword of monopolistic nexus supplier transparency, which benefits buyers with higher levels of accessibility but increases risk exposure for buyers with lower accessibility.

Originality/value

This study demonstrates that the transparency of critical second-tier suppliers mitigates buyer ESG risk exposure by providing information about lower tiers in the supply network. Challenging the notion of the focal buyer as the main orchestrator of supply chain initiatives, our alternative perspective opens a new avenue for risk management in multi-tier supply chains.
Exploring user adaptation behaviors toward mobile technology: a higher education perspective
Authors: Kakavand Samantha Samaneh , Teimourzadeh Aria , Kakavand Benjamin
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Grounded in coping model of user adaptation (CMUA), this research aims to provide insights into understanding the social mechanism influencing faculty’s adoption and adaptation of mobile technology (MT). An extensive review of the literature highlights a significant gap in empirical research regarding the adoption of MT and faculty adaptation when viewed through the lens of group dynamics.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on an exploratory study conducted at two engineering universities in France. A qualitative method enabled a comprehensive examination of faculty members using multiple field-based observations and semi-directive interviews at both University A and University B.

Findings

While extant research tends to prioritize individual-level approaches, the integration of MT within higher education inherently involves social dynamics. Our results reveal that faculty’s perceived control and their initial perception over adoption of MT play an important role in shaping their adaptation behavior. The findings suggest that the adoption of MT among faculty members is influenced by various organizational factors. Specifically, the organizational logic of adoption affects their primary appraisal of MT, while group norms and social influence shape their adaptation acts. Furthermore, the organization’s continuous commitment to supporting faculty members also impacts their coping activities, ultimately influencing their overall adoption and utilization of MT.

Originality/value

This study builds upon the limited yet growing body of literature on a theme highly relevant for practitioners, scholars as well as MT users in a higher education environment. The paper extends the CMUA by exploring the relationship between MT adoption and continuous user adaptation at both group and organizational levels. Our proposed framework assists universities in articulating their MT adoption and implementation strategy in harmony with a clear vision of their users’ adaptation activities before, during and after the implementation.
Assessing the impact of digital service innovation (DSI) on business performance: the mediating effect of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Authors: Monroy-Osorio Juan Carlos
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The research aims to explore the dynamic relationship between digital service innovation (DSI), artificial intelligence (AI) and business performance (BPer) in service-based models with a focus on how AI-enhanced insights from service use and customer feedback can strengthen business strategies. The aims are to show that DSI and AI are key to driving growth and efficiency in the digital economy and to underscore AI’s role in utilizing contextual data to improve decision-making and business outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses general structural equation modeling to analyze Spanish manufacturing firms, focusing on medium-sized enterprises and including both business-to-business and business-to-consumer orientations. Data are drawn from the Iberian Balance Analysis System [Sistema de Análisis de Balances Ibéricos (SABI)] database, complemented by a Qualtrics survey to assess the integration of AI in decision-making processes. The methodology is designed to evaluate the interplay between DSI, AI and BPer, with the aim of identifying actionable insights for service-based business orientations.

Findings

The study clarifies the relationships between DSI, AI and BPer, providing new theoretical and empirical insights. The findings confirm DSI's direct positive impact on performance and suggest AI’s nuanced mediating role, emphasizing the need for strategic DSI-AI integration in manufacturing firms for enhanced performance.

Research limitations/implications

The research explains the synergistic bond between DSI and AI in boosting BPer and discovering how by-product data can be transformed into strategic insights.

Practical implications

This study advises manufacturing sector leaders to integrate DSI and AI for enhanced performance and competitive advantage, emphasizing the value of high-quality, contextual data for AI learning and decision-making.

Originality/value

Researchers will observe that the study confirms the positive impact of DSI on BPer, while also highlighting the significant role of AI in enhancing this effect.
Navigating patient journeys across healthcare borders: hot potatoes, medical professionalism and a negotiated order
Authors: Rys Maciej , Krzyworzeka Pawel , Żukowicka-Surma Anna
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study explores the dynamics of patient transfers within the Polish healthcare system during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on the roles of negotiation, boundary work and systemic flexibility. Despite extensive literature on patient transfers, gaps remain in understanding the general mechanisms that complicate these processes, especially under crisis conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

By interviewing 18 specialists across various medical fields, our research provides empirical evidence from Poland, highlighting the experiences of medical practitioners who navigated the complex landscape of patient transfers during the pandemic.

Findings

By integrating negotiation and boundary work theories, we reveal how healthcare professionals manage patient flows and the challenges they face. Our findings show that during the unique situation caused by the uncertainties and lack of preparedness for the pandemic, while standardization and rationalization tools have limited effectiveness, proactive involvement and strategic negotiation are crucial for successful patient management.

Research limitations/implications

The study's primary limitation is its focus solely on the Polish healthcare system during the COVID-19 pandemic, which may not fully represent other contexts or healthcare systems.

Originality/value

The study underscores the importance of communication and interpersonal skills in facilitating patient transfers. We also argue that the previous experiences with negotiating orders, dealing with limited resources and making constant compromises had, in a way, built resilience in Polish medical experts and prepared them for the uncertainties encountered while treating COVID-19 patients. These insights contribute to academic theories and offer practical recommendations for enhancing healthcare system resilience and adaptability in future crises. Ultimately, the study emphasizes that flexibility and strategic negotiation are key to managing patient transfers in a fragmented and complex healthcare environment.
Workplace interpersonal capitalization and employee well-being
Authors: Li Jiamin , Xu Zhicheng , Ye Maolin , Nong Meilan
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Although coworkers’ workplace interpersonal capitalization occurs every day in the workplace, we know little about how it affects employees’ well-being or why and when this impact occurs. To address these questions, we theorized and tested a model that links coworkers’ capitalization to well-being outcomes via perceived relatedness and anxiety and the boundary condition of learning goal orientation.

Design/methodology/approach

Time-lagged survey data were collected (N = 304) from a range of organizations in mainland China. Path modeling was used to examine the hypotheses.

Findings

The results indicated that coworkers’ capitalization drives an employee to experience either relatedness or anxiety, depending on the employee’s learning goal orientation. Furthermore, responses to relatedness and anxiety trigger autonomous motivation and psychological detachment, respectively.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the capitalization literature by comprehensively explaining the negative and positive effects of coworkers’ capitalization on employees’ well-being.
Interplay between GHRM and logistics social responsibility: when big data analytics matters
Authors: Jaaron Ayham A.M. , Javaid Mudaser , Garcia R.L. Fernando
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This paper analyses the role of green human resources management (GHRM) practices on the application of logistics social responsibility (LSR) practices and examines the moderating effect of big data analytics (BDA) utilisation levels within these relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on quantitative research methodology using survey data from 404 managers in the logistics service providers (LSPs) industry in the Philippines, PLS-SEM technique was used to test hypotheses formulated in this research.

Findings

Empirical results achieved suggest that GHRM practices have a significant positive impact on LSR. Among all individual GHRM practices, green training and development did not have any influence on LSR. While the results also revealed that BDA assimilation acts as a moderator of the relationship between GHRM and LSR, no support was found for the moderation effect of BDA acceptance or adoption on this relationship.

Originality/value

The study fills a gap in the logistics literature by introducing dynamic capabilities theory to the nexus between GHRM and SLR for the first time, which reveals previously unknown answers on effects of GHRM practices on LSR. The study also introduces BDA assimilation as an important moderator that can strengthen positive impact of GHRM on LSR.
An analysis on the effect of layer number on the stability of thin DNA origami nanopores
Authors: Khosravi Raheleh , Mogheiseh Maryam , Hasanzadeh Ghasemi Reza
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The present study aims to design and simulate various types of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) origami-based nanopores and explore their stability under different temperatures and constraints. To create DNA origami nanopores, both one-layer and two-layer structures can be utilized.

Design/methodology/approach

One of the key applications of DNA origami structures involves the creation of nanopores, which have garnered significant interest for their diverse applications across multiple scientific disciplines. DNA origami nanopores can be studied individually and in combination with other structures. The structural stability of these nanopores across various temperature conditions is crucial for enabling the passage of diverse payloads.

Findings

Comparing these DNA origami structures can provide valuable insights into the performance of these nanopores under different conditions. The results indicate that two-layer nanopores exhibit better structural stability under various temperatures compared to one-layer nanopores. Additionally, small structural changes in two-layer nanopores enable them to maintain stability even at high temperatures.

Originality/value

In this paper, various DNA origami-based nanopores were designed and simulated, focusing specifically on one-layer and two-layer configurations. The two-layer nanopore consistently exhibited superior stability across both free and restrained scenarios, undergoing fewer structural changes compared to the one-layer nanopore. As temperatures increased, the two-layer nanopore remained less susceptible to deformation, maintaining closer to its original shape. Moreover, in the free scenario, the geometric shape of the two-layer nanopore demonstrated fewer variations than the one-layer nanopore.
Formulating a road map for decarbonization in United States via resource efficiency, renewable energy, and globalization: Evidence from time‐frequency‐quantile approach
Authors: Awosusi Abraham Ayobamiji , Özkan Oktay , Ahmed Zahoor , Sevinç Demet Eroğlu , Adebayo Tomiwa Sunday
Published: October 2024

Renewable energy, resource efficiency, and globalization are recognized as pivotal factors in the pursuit of environmental sustainability. This study's novelty lies in examining the impact of resource efficiency, the influence of globalization, and the adoption of renewable energy sources on energy‐related CO2 emissions in the United States spanning the years from 1990 to 2020 is the focus of this study. Additionally, this investigation leveraged a diverse range of time‐frequency‐quantile techniques, encompassing quantile‐on‐quantile regressions, wavelet coherence, cross quantile coherence, wavelet‐based quantile correlation, and quantile regression, which is an additional novel aspect of this study. The findings of this research indicate that resource efficiency, the utilization of renewable energy sources, and the forces of globalization collectively contribute to enhancing ecological sustainability by reducing energy‐related CO2 in the United States across a range of quantiles, time periods, and temporal contexts. The study posits that these findings offer a comprehensive framework that can guide policymakers in the United States toward taking tangible measures to advance ecological sustainability while curbing energy‐related CO2 emissions.
Paraneoplastic neurological syndrome and its impact on the treatment outcomes of small‐cell lung cancer: A single‐center retrospective analysis
Authors: Sato Yuki , Fujiwara Satoru , Shirakawa Chigusa , Hirabayashi Ryosuke , Nagata Kazuma , Nakagawa Atsushi , Tachikawa Ryo , Tomii Keisuke
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Paraneoplastic neurological syndrome (PNS) is associated with small‐cell lung cancer (SCLC). However, the frequency and characteristics of PNS and the efficacy of anticancer treatment for these patients have not been investigated in the Japanese/Asian population previously. Therefore, we aimed to better understand PNS by evaluating real‐world data from patients with PNS complicated by SCLC.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with Stage II–IV SCLC at a single center between August 2007 and April 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. The primary outcome was the incidence of PNS. The secondary outcomes were the change in performance status (PS) after treatment commencement and outcomes following anticancer treatment, including objective response rate (ORR), progression‐free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS).

Results

A total of 318 patients were evaluated; PNS was present in 2.8% (n = 9) of the overall population. All patients with PNS exhibited poor Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group PS (≥2); moreover, 78% of patients had a PS score of 3–4. An improvement in PS was observed in 56% (n = 5) of patients. Patients with PNS exhibited treatment efficacies similar to patients without PNS (ORR: 89% vs. 83%, p = 1.0; PFS: 7.6 vs. 5.7 months, p = 0.69; OS: not reached vs. 15.6 months, p = 0.23).

Conclusions

A total of 2.8% of patients had SCLC complicated by PNS, with poor PS observed. However, anticancer therapy led to an improvement in PS and comparable ORR, as well as PFS and OS similar to those observed in patients without PNS. Thus, anticancer therapy should be considered in patients with PNS.
Feminist visualisation challenges: Methodological innovation, opportunities, and lessons learned
Authors: Coddington Kate , Williams Jill M.
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we detail the process of organising and facilitating a visualisation challenge as part of a larger project centring visual methods. We explore how the visualisation challenge specifically operated to highlight feminist epistemological and methodological principals, and practically, what worked and what didn't. We conclude that visualisation challenges offer exciting potential to jumpstart creative and innovative project development, but if a challenge is to be successful, context matters, and so too do practical and logical considerations. We believe that feminist visualisation challenges offer exciting models to share findings and data, learn from emerging research practices, and build community within and beyond the academy.
Severe cytopenia after chimeric antigen receptor‐T cell driven by large granular lymphocytes and responsive to steroids
Authors: Capes Antoine , Morin Alexandra , Banet Anne , Suner Ludovic , Ricard Laure , Corre Elise , Brissot Eolia , Stocker Nicolas , Marjanovic Zora , Sarkozy Clémentine , Mohty Mohamad , Malard Florent
Published: October 2024

Immune effector cell‐associated hematotoxicity (ICAHT) is a common toxicity associated with an important morbidity after chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)‐T‐cell therapy. Multiple factors seem to be involved in the development of severe ICAHT, making its management difficult. Here, we report three cases of severe ICAHT after axicabtagene‐ciloleucel (axi‐cel) for diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma showing an expansion of large granular lymphocyte in the bone marrow with a CD3/CD57‐positive non‐CAR‐T immunophenotype. We show that it is possible to treat them with low‐dose steroids, obtaining a striking resolution of cytopenias with no deleterious impact on the underlying malignancy.
A new face in the treatment of Philadelphia chromosome‐positive acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
Authors: Kondo Takeshi
Published: October 2024

The prognosis for patients with relapsed/refractory or measurable (minimal) residual disease‐positive Philadelphia chromosome (Ph)‐positive acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) is poor. Currently, ponatinib is the only approved tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) that is effective for Ph‐positive ALL with the T315I mutation. Although the report by Liu et al. is a retrospective observational study, it offers prospects for the efficacy of chemotherapy combined with the novel third‐generation TKI, olverembatinib, in these conditions, which may be validated in future prospective clinical trials.

Commentary on: Liu et al. Efficacy and safety of olverembatinib in adult BCR::ABL1‐positive ALL with T315I mutation or relapsed/refractory disease. Br J Haematol 2024; 205:2228‐2233.
Self‐compassion improves barrier self‐efficacy and subsequently physical activity: A test of longitudinal mediation using a representative sample of the United Kingdom
Authors: Zhang Shuge , Pringle Andy , Roscoe Clare
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Self‐compassion, which directs the awareness of suffering, sympathetic concerns and caring motives towards oneself, is an important psychological quality and resource for health and well‐being. In the context of physical activity, self‐compassion can help individuals overcome obstacles, recuperate from a setback or a lapse and engage in regular physical activity. The present research was the first to examine the longitudinal effects of self‐compassion on physical activity and the mediation role of barrier self‐efficacy of such effects.

Methods

We recruited a national representative sample of 654 UK adults and followed them over three timepoints across 9 months. At each time point, participants completed an online survey assessing levels of state self‐compassion, barrier self‐efficacy and physical activity behaviours. We examined the longitudinal effects of self‐compassion on physical activity and the mediation role of barrier self‐efficacy.

Results

Baseline state self‐compassion consistently correlated with physical activity levels at Times 2 and 3. Barrier self‐efficacy at Time 2 mediated the longitudinal effect of baseline state self‐compassion on Time 3 physical activity, after controlling for within‐ (e.g., Time 1 on Time 2 self‐compassion) and between‐person variations (e.g., covariance of self‐compassion and physical activity within a timepoint).

Conclusions

Adopting a self‐compassionate mind facilitates engagement and maintenance of physical activity. Future studies could consider accelerometer‐based physical activity measures and develop and validate a more context‐specific state self‐compassion measure tailored for physical activity contexts. Researchers and practitioners should consider incorporating self‐compassion to future interventions and education programmes for promoting physical activity.
A new way to conceptualize intolerance of uncertainty among adolescents: Embracing the network perspective
Authors: Ye Haoxian , Shi Xinyu , Li Yunyi , Huang Yike , You Ruiyan , Zhang Xiangting , Yu Zhijun , Li Huolian , Fan Fang
Published: October 2024

Intolerance of uncertainty (IU), a pivotal transdiagnostic risk factor in psychopathology, is defined as a dispositional incapacity to withstand uncertainty distress, driving maladaptive cognitive, emotional and behavioural reactions to uncertainty. However, the intricate interplay among these components, particularly in adolescents, remains underexplored; yet understanding this interplay is crucial for supporting mental health. To address this gap, we employed a network approach to conceptualize IU in 5672 non‐clinical Chinese adolescents (Mage = 14.13 years, SDage = 1.96 years, range = 10–19 years, 46.6% boys), combining graphical Gaussian models (GGM) and directed acyclic graphs (DAG). Our analyses revealed a tripartite network comprising cognitive, behavioural and emotional components. Notably, ‘frustration’ and ‘work with hindrance’ emerged as key drivers, while ‘catastrophizing belief’ served as a critical bridge linking different components. These findings underscore the importance of alleviating uncertainty‐induced frustration and enhancing coping skills for behavioural impediments to mitigate adolescent IU. Additionally, therapeutic interventions should prioritize modifying and re‐evaluating catastrophizing beliefs related to uncertainty.
Directed Design, Screening and Antiglycation Activity for 3‐Substituted Thiazolium Derivatives, New Analogs of Alagebrium
Authors: Zhukovskaya Olga N. , Kolodina Alexandra A. , Litvinov Roman , Ibragimova Umida , Valuisky Nikita , Sorokina Svetlana , Zhukova Xenia , Pobedinskaya Diana Yu. , Borisov Alexander , Babkov Denis A. , Spasov Alexander A.
Published: October 2024

Preliminary ab initio calculations led to the synthesis of novel substituted thiazolium salts, analogs of Alagebrium, which were further explored in vitro for their potential as inhibitors of the glycation reaction utilizing three distinct assays: inhibition of fluorescent AGEs formation, anticrosslinking, and deglycation. Despite the unidirectionality of the assays, distinct differences were observed in the mechanisms of interference and activity manifestation by the compounds. The gathered data permitted the formation of hypotheses about the molecular fragments of the studied antiglycators that are of utmost significance in each assay, thereby guiding future design endeavors. Potential mechanisms of actions are discussed therein. The compound 4‐meth‐yl‐3‐[2‐(4‐methylbiphenyl‐4‐yl)‐2‐oxoethyl] thiazolium bromide displayed high activity across all three assays, establishing it as a lead compound. The cytotoxicological properties of the compounds were evaluated using LDH and MTT assays. However, the lead compound exhibited cytotoxicity, indicating the need for additional investigations aimed at decreasing toxicity while maintaining activity. The targeted thiazolium salts were synthesized through an N‐alkylation reaction between the corresponding thiazoles and phenacyl bromides.
Novel Synthesized Benzophenone Thiazole Hybrids Exhibited Ex Vivo and In Silico Anti‐Inflammatory Activity
Authors: Leão Luiz Paulo Melchior de Oliveira , Neto Albert Katchborian , de Jesus Nicácio Karen , Lavorato Stefânia Neiva , Leite Fernanda Brito , Teixeira Karina Camargo , Murgu Michael , de Paula Ana Cláudia Chagas , Soares Marisi Gomes , Chagas‐Paula Daniela Aparecida , Dias Danielle Ferreira
Published: October 2024

Novel benzophenone–thiazole hybrids with different substituents were synthesized and evaluated for anti‐inflammatory activity using an ex vivo human whole‐blood assay. All hybrids (3c and 5a–h) showed significant anti‐inflammatory activity via prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) release inhibition. Moreover, 5c (82.8% of PGE2 inhibition), 5e (83.1% of PGE2 inhibition), and 5h (82.1% of PGE2 inhibition) were comparable to the reference drugs. Molecular docking revealed potential preferable binding to the active sites of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX‐2) and microsomal prostaglandin E synthase‐1 (mPGES‐1) enzymes. This study provides the first evidence that benzophenone–thiazole hybrids may also dock in mPGES‐1, a new attractive anti‐inflammatory drug target, besides providing promising ex vivo anti‐inflammatory activity. Thus, the novel hybrids are promising anti‐inflammatory lead compounds and highlight the significance of optimal substituent selection in the design of potent PGE2 inhibitors.
Biallelic PIGM Coding Variant Causes Intractable Epilepsy and Intellectual Disability Without Thrombotic Events
Authors: Heimer Gali , Pode‐Shakked Ben , Marek‐Yagel Dina , Vernitsky Helly , Tzadok Michal , Barel Ortal , Eyal Eran , Ben‐Zeev Bruria , Atzmon Gil , Anikster Yair
Published: October 2024

During the past two decades, an emerging group of genes coding for proteins involved in glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchor biosynthesis are being implicated in early‐infantile epileptic encephalopathy. Amongst these, a hypomorphic promoter mutation in the mannosyltransferase‐encoding PIGM gene was described in seven patients to date, exhibiting intractable absence epilepsy, portal and cerebral vein thrombosis and intellectual disability (ID). We describe here three siblings exhibiting intractable epilepsy and ID, found to harbor a homozygous c.224G>A p.(Arg75His) missense variant in PIGM, which segregated with the disease in the family. The variant is evolutionary conserved, extremely rare in general population databases and predicted to be deleterious. Structural modeling of the PIGM protein and the p.(Arg75His) variant indicates that it is located in a short luminal region of the protein, predicted to be hydrophilic. Functional prediction suggests that the entire local region is sensitive to mutations, with the p.(Arg75His) variant in particular. This is the first report of a PIGM coding variant, and the second variant altogether to be described affecting this gene. This phenotype differs from that of patients with the shared PIGM promoter mutation by lack of thrombotic events and no decrease in PIGM cDNA levels or CD59 expression on red blood cells.
The Decontamination Effect of an Oscillating Chitosan Brush Compared With an Ultrasonic PEEK‐Tip: An In Vitro Study Using a Dynamic Biofilm Model
Authors: Khan Sadia Nazir , Ribeiro‐Vidal Honorato , Virto Leire , Bravo Enrique , Nuevo Paula , Koldsland Odd Carsten , Hjortsjö Carl , Sanz Mariano
Published: October 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the effect of an oscillating chitosan brush (OCB) compared with an ultrasonic device with PEEK tip (US‐PEEK) for mechanical implant surface decontamination using an in vitro model combining 3D models and a validated dynamic multispecies biofilm.

Materials and Methods

A multispecies biofilm using six bacterial strains (Streptococcus oralis, Veillonella parvula, Actinomyces naeslundii, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans) was seeded on dental implants with machined and sandblasted, large‐grit and acid‐etched (SLA) surfaces. These were installed in 3D models depicting peri‐implant defect. Mechanical decontamination was performed for 120 s using either an OCB or a US‐PEEK. A negative control group received no treatment. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to evaluate the bacterial composition and quantitative PCR (qPCR) analyzed the number of each bacterial species [colony‐forming units per milliliter (CFU/mL)].

Results

Well‐structured biofilms with a dense microbial distribution were observed on the negative control implants after 72 h. qPCR following mechanical decontamination showed a scarce bacterial reduction in the OCB group. The US‐PEEK group exhibited a significant decrease in bacterial species compared to both OCB and control groups (p < 0.05). A biofilm removal effect was also observed in the OCB group for the machined implant surfaces.

Conclusion

In vitro assessment using an anatomical 3D model showed that mechanical decontamination effectively reduced biofilm. The US‐PEEK group demonstrated biofilm reduction on the SLA surface, while the OCB group showed a reduction on the machined implant surface. Additionally, the US‐PEEK group demonstrated greater efficacy in reducing bacterial numbers.
Twenty‐five years of addressing cutting‐edge scientific, policy, and regulatory issues through collaboration: The Forum for Collaborative Research
Authors: Schaefer Robin , Ayvaz Alessi , Hoffman Christopher R. , Yann Margot , Rooney Zachary , Leus Mitchell , Mitra Shilpa , Miller Veronica ,   for the Forum for Collaborative Research
Published: October 2024

Developing safe and effective drugs and other medical products is a complex and costly process. Drug development has been, historically, commonly competitive and uncollaborative, and this tendency toward a lack of interaction between stakeholders—the pharmaceutical industry, academia, regulatory agencies, healthcare providers, and communities, among others—can lead to missed opportunities to improve efficiency and, ultimately, public health. The Forum for Collaborative Research was established in 1997 to address current scientific, policy, and regulatory issues in global health through multistakeholder engagement and dialogue. By providing a neutral and safe space for discussion, the Forum's model has impacted how clinical trials in diverse health areas are conducted, supported broader and more equitable clinical trial participation, and accelerated delivery of new drugs. The Forum's focus and directions have shifted over time, and this responsiveness to the needs of the global health community will be critical to ensure that the Forum continues to support collaboration in global health. In this article, we present lessons learned from this innovative model of collaborative research and regulatory science, pioneered by the Forum for over 25 years, including the importance of collective ownership and governance by all stakeholders, and emphasis on common goals and advantages of collaboration.
The Invisible Species: Big Data Unveil Coverage Gaps in the Atlantic Forest Hotspot
Authors: Trindade Weverton C. F. , Marques Márcia C. M.
Published: October 2024

Aim

Rapid technological advancements and the biodiversity crisis have motivated efforts to document species before their extinction. However, taxonomic coverage gaps, where certain species are underrepresented in biodiversity databases, can distort our understanding of ecosystems. Here, we quantified how many of the plant species found in a hotspot are invisible, i.e. they would be excluded from studies due to insufficient occurrence data. Additionally, we identified factors influencing the invisibility of species.

Location

Atlantic Forest hotspot, Brazil.

Methods

We downloaded and filtered occurrence data from 15,010 plant species from online biodiversity databases. We utilized multiple thresholds, each representing a minimum required number of records, to classify species as “invisible” if their record count fell below these thresholds. We fitted logistic models to estimate how factors such as life form, presence of a vernacular name, geographical distribution, endemism, and year of taxonomic publication influence the odds of species exclusion.

Results

The proportion of invisible species ranged from 14% when employing simple tools requiring just three records to as high as 64% with more demanding tools requiring at least 60 records. Species with specific characteristics are more prone to invisibility, including non‐tree species, species without vernacular names, species with restricted distributions within Atlantic Forest, endemic species, and species with names published more recently. A significant portion of these invisible species are distributed along the coastline. In contrast, the continental portion of the biome exhibits fewer taxonomic coverage gaps of known species, most likely due to lower rates of new species descriptions.

Main Conclusions

Coverage gaps are shaped by the interaction of biological traits, societal preferences, limited technical support, and human activities. Studies relying on distributional data must balance the rigour of filters and thresholds to achieve both geographical reliability and taxonomic coverage, adjusting them to align with each study's specific data and goals.
Heart rate variability biofeedback for critical illness polyneuropathy: a randomized sham‐controlled study
Authors: Sedghi Annahita , Bartels Christoph , Simon Erik , Krause Florian , Arndt Martin , Zsigri Stefan , Barlinn Kristian , Bodechtel Ulf , Penzlin Ana Isabel , Siepmann Timo
Published: October 2024

Background and purpose

Critical illness polyneuropathy (CIP) has been linked to neurocardiac dysfunction mediated by autonomic nervous system dysregulation, which increases mortality. We aimed to assess if heart rate variability (HRV) biofeedback could improve neurocardiac function in CIP.

Methods

We randomly allocated (1:1) patients with electrophysiologically confirmed CIP undergoing early inpatient neurological rehabilitation to additional HRV or sham biofeedback over 14 days. We evaluated neurocardiac function via standard deviation of normal‐to‐normal intervals (SDNN) as the primary outcome, as well as HRV frequency domains, sympathetic cutaneous sudomotor and vasomotor functions and disability at baseline, post intervention and 4 weeks later. The study is registered on the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS00028911).

Results

We included 30 patients with CIP (40% females, median [interquartile range] age 64.6 [56, 72] years). We observed an increase in SDNN and the predominantly parasympathetic high frequency domain post intervention (ß = 16.4, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.2, 32.6 [p = 0.047] and ß = 1179.2, 95% CI 119.9, 2158.5 [p = 0.018]), which was sustained at the 4‐week follow‐up (ß = 25.7, 95% CI 6.0, 45.4 [p = 0.011] and ß = 25.7, 95% CI 6.0, 45.4 [p = 0.011]). Patients who underwent HRV biofeedback displayed a higher adjusted Barthel index, indicating less severe disability 4 weeks after the intervention compared to those in the sham group (ß = 23.3, 95% CI 5.5, 41.1 [p = 0.014]). Low frequency and sympathetic skin functions did not differ between groups (p = nonsignificant).

Conclusions

Our study provides pilot data suggesting that, in patients with CIP, HRV biofeedback can improve neurocardiac function with a predominant effect on the parasympathetic nervous system and has a beneficial effect on functional recovery.