bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COVID-19 outcomes: exploring the footprints of the pandemic on the office sector in Johannesburg, South Africa
Authors: Akinsomi Omokolade , Oladiran Olayiwola , Kaseka Zoe
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the impact of COVID-19 on office space in Johannesburg. This study further explores the role of changing work practices in the office sector in South Africa because of the pandemic and its impact on future office space use planning and management.

Design/methodology/approach

To understand the footprints that the COVID-19 pandemic has left on the office space market in Johannesburg, this study uses semi-structured interviews, which were administered to corporate office users, and a thematic analysis was adopted to understand the views, perspectives and expectations of office users.

Findings

The study showed that space users perceive COVID-19-induced remote working as having benefits, opportunities and challenges. A notable shift in office space utilization has emerged, with employees increasingly opting for roles that permit remote work. This newfound flexibility, accommodating both on-site and remote work, often makes working from home more appealing than traditional office environments that may no longer align with users’ preferences for office spaces.

Research limitations/implications

The study is limited to Johannesburg, South Africa, and may not apply to other African markets. Ten in-depth interviews were conducted, and analysis and results were deduced; this may be considered a limitation of this study.

Practical implications

The pandemic’s impact has brought about irreversible changes, compelling policymakers and business leaders to strategize and prepare. This proactive stance aims to prevent avoidable challenges for employees and companies during future pandemics. A thoughtful approach to the post-pandemic world can usher positive changes in the office and property sector. This includes the coexistence of both remote work and on-site working models.

Originality/value

This paper provides valuable insight into some of the outcomes of the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa that are essential for future office space use planning and management. The insights from this study extend the literature and provide novel knowledge based on an office sector in the “global south.”
Investing in security-as-a-service for e-commerce infrastructure by small and medium enterprises: a Monte Carlo approach
Authors: Nazareth Derek L. , Choi Jae , Ngo-Ye Thomas
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the conditions under which small and medium enterprises (SMEs) invest in security services when they migrate their e-commerce applications to the cloud environment. Using a risk management perspective, the paper assesses the impact of security service pricing, security incident prevalence and virulence to estimate SME security spending at the market level and draw out implications for SMEs and security service providers.

Design/methodology/approach

Security risks are inherently characterized by uncertainty. This study uses a Monte Carlo approach to understand the role of uncertainty in the decision to adopt security services. A model relating key security constructs is assembled based on key constructs from the domain. By manipulating security service costs and security incident types, the model estimates the market-level adoption of services, security incidents and damages incurred, along with measures of their relative dispersion.

Findings

Three key findings emerge from this study. First, adoption of services and protection is higher when tiered security services are provided, indicating that SMEs prefer to choose their security services rather than accept uniformly priced products. Second, SMEs are considered price-sensitive, resulting in a maximum level of spending in the market. Third, results indicate that security incidents and damages can be much higher than the mean in some cases, and this should serve as a cautionary note to SMEs.

Originality/value

Security spending has been modeled at the firm level. Adopting a market-level perspective represents a novel contribution. Additionally, the Monte Carlo approach provides managers with tangible measures of uncertainty, affording additional information and insight when making security service adoption decisions.
Effect of digital transformation on labor income share in manufacturing enterprises: insights from technological innovation and industry–university–research collaborations
Authors: Miao Ying , Shi Yue , Jing Hao
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the relationships among digital transformation, technological innovation, industry–university–research collaborations and labor income share in manufacturing firms.

Design/methodology/approach

The relationships are tested using an empirical method, constructing regression models, by collecting 1,240 manufacturing firms and 9,029 items listed on the A-share market in China from 2013 to 2020.

Findings

The results indicate that digital transformation has a positive effect on manufacturing companies’ labor income share. Technological innovation can mediate the effect of digital transformation on labor income share. Industry–university–research cooperation can positively moderate the promotion effect of digital transformation on labor income share but cannot moderate the mediating effect of technological innovation. Heterogeneity analysis also found that firms without service-based transformation and nonstate-owned firms are better able to increase their labor income share through digital transformation.

Originality/value

This study provides a new path to increase the labor income share of enterprises to achieve common prosperity, which is important for manufacturing enterprises to better transform and upgrade to achieve high-quality development.
The influence of management functions on the productivity of yard cargo handling equipment in container terminals
Authors: Nguyen Luong Hai
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This empirical study explores the profound impact of management functions on the productivity of yard cargo handling equipment within container terminals.

Design/methodology/approach

By closely examining crucial management aspects such as planning, organizing, leading and controlling, a comprehensive managerial behavior framework was developed through focus group studies (FGS) and focal interviews. These qualitative methods were complemented by the distribution of questionnaires to practitioners in Vietnam. To validate the concept of management functions and analyze their influence on effective management practices for equipment efficiency, a structural equation model (SEM) technique was employed using partial least-squares estimation (PLS).

Findings

The findings of this study demonstrate that planning (PL), organizing (OR) and controlling (CT) significantly contributes to the productivity of yard cargo handling equipment, while leading (LD) does not exhibit a direct positive impact.

Originality/value

Theoretically, this study contributes by providing clarity to the definition, purpose and value of management functions in the field of cargo handling equipment management. Furthermore, these research findings offer valuable insights to terminal operators and managers, enabling them to optimize their management strategies and enhance productivity levels, ultimately resulting in improved operational outcomes.
Determinants of bank’s dividend policy: a life cycle theory test in Indonesia
Authors: Setiawan Setiawan , Wahyudi Sugeng , Muharam Harjum
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This research attempts to examine bank dividend policy in Indonesia by applying the life cycle theory of dividends.

Design/methodology/approach

This research used secondary data gotten from two sources: banks’ annual financial statements from 2005 to 2019 and the number of observation samples was 510 from 42 banks. Random Effects Logit Model (RELM) is used to detect the influence of independent variables on Propensity to Pay Dividends (PPD) and Random Effects Tobit Model (RETM) is used to test the influence of independent variables on Dividend Payout Ratio (DPR).

Findings

The RELM results show that Retained Earnings to Total Equity (RE/TE), Retained Earnings to Total Asset (RE/TA) and bank age have a positive impact on the propensity to pay dividends (PPD) while bank growth (GRW) has a negative impact. The RETM results reveal that RE/TE, ROA and bank size have a positive impact on the dividend payout ratio (DPR) while GRW has a negative impact. This analysis also discovers that the capital adequacy ratio (CAR) and Non-performing Loans (NPL) is one important factor considered by banks in Indonesia in determining their dividend policy.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to enriching literature in finance, especially in the life cycle theory of dividends. Also, it can be a guide to consider by investors before deciding to put their shares in banks in Indonesia.

Originality/value

Research on bank-specific life cycle theory is very difficult to find, especially in the Indonesian context, so this research can enrich the body of knowledge on dividend decisions.
Equity ownership concentration and firm growth: the moderating role of industry growth
Authors: Torres Pedro , Silva Pedro , Augusto Mário
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The effects of ownership concentration on firm performance usually considers two conflicting perspectives: monitoring and expropriation hypotheses. Past studies have produced mix findings. This study aims to shed light on this relationship by focusing on a specific measure of firm performance, firm growth. The moderating effect of industry growth in the aforementioned relationship is also considered, which advances knowledge on the role of moderators.

Design/methodology/approach

This study resorts to data from a sample of 21,476 Portuguese firms, which is examined using hierarchical linear modelling. This approach is adequate because the data has a hierarchical structure: the firms are nested within industries.

Findings

The results show that equity ownership concentration has a positive effect on firms’ growth and that industry growth amplifies this relationship. Ownership concentration can spur effective monitoring, thereby alleviating principal–agent conflicts of interest and speeding up decision-making, enabling timely competitive actions that promote growth.

Research limitations/implications

The research conceives ownership structure in two groups. However, equity ownership concentration often acquires more complex shapes. In addition, the data used is from a single country.

Practical implications

The results show that firms pursuing growing strategies and operating in growing industries benefit from equity concentration.

Originality/value

Different from past studies, this study focuses on firm growth performance and considers the moderating effect of industry growth.
CEO’s IT background and continuous green innovation of enterprises: evidence from China
Authors: Pan Junyu , Bao Han , Cifuentes-Faura Javier , Liu Xiaoqian
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to examine whether chief executive officer’s (CEO) information technology (IT) background can affect enterprises’ continuous green innovation (CGI).

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses the data of China’s listed enterprises from 2011 to 2019.

Findings

The statistical results reveal that when a company hires a CEO with an IT background, its CGI can be higher. Firm ownership, firm digitization and industry bias alter the impact of CEO’s IT background on firms’ CGI. This effect is most pronounced in non-state-owned enterprises (non-SOEs), high-digitalized enterprises and skill-biased industries, while not in SOEs, low-digitalized enterprises and labor-biased industries.

Practical implications

This study has practical implications, as it measures CGI of enterprises. It also points to the necessity for a CEO’s IT background to enhance CGI.

Social implications

The findings provide new strategies for incentivizing sustainable development and green innovation.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to discuss the association between CEO’s IT background and enterprises’ CGI. The conclusions enrich both upper echelons theory and enterprise green innovation literature.
Closing the loop: does corporate sustainability capability matter for improving energy efficiency? Evidence from Pakistan
Authors: Tanveer Arifa , Zeng Shihong , Tian Wei
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine whether and how corporate sustainability capability influences energy efficiency through competitive intensity and slack resource availability.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors applied a two-wave research design and administered a survey questionnaire to senior-level managers of 78 ISO-14001 and ISO-50001 certified manufacturing companies. The authors use a multi-method approach for data analysis. AMOS 23 software was applied for covariance-based structural equation modeling. In addition, SPSS 25 software was applied for hierarchical regression analysis to examine the causal relationships in the model.

Findings

The finding reveals that corporate sustainability capabilities, which include energy-saving opportunities, seizing energy-saving opportunities and resource reconfiguration, significantly improve firms’ energy efficiency. In addition, competitive intensity and slack resource availability positively moderated the relationship between corporate sustainability capability and energy efficiency.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to examine the link between corporate sustainability capability and energy efficiency in developing countries such as Pakistan. Although the influence of various corporate sustainability capabilities on sustainable performance has been widely examined in the literature, the role of corporate sustainability capability has been limitedly explored with energy efficiency. This study extends the literature by adding to the knowledge of corporate sustainability capability that enhances boundary conditions in developing countries.
Incorporating ESG across the M&A process
Authors: Galpin Timothy , de Vibe Maja
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Aspects of ESG have become key considerations during many M&A transactions. This ranges from the type of assets a firm purchases, to evaluating the management practices of target firms, to incorporating ESG assessments into due diligence checklists and valuation models, to including specific ESG provisions in the sale and purchase agreement (SPA). Companies are increasingly concluding that a more robust focus on ESG in deal-making allows for greater value to be captured. This article identifies how companies can go about incorporating ESG throughout the deal process, from pre-deal analysis through post-transaction integration. A case example is provided.

Design/methodology/approach

This article provides key actions firms can take to incorporate ESG throughout the deal process, from pre-deal analysis through post-transaction integration. A case example from a large state-owned Norwegian utility is provided.

Findings

Various components of ESG have rapidly become key considerations in transactions. Firms that incorporate ESG across their M&A process, both pre- and post-deal can reap significant benefits. While firms that ignore ESG during M&A not only miss the upside potential, but also risk making damaging and costly deal mistakes.

Practical implications

M&A practitioners will find this article particularly useful, as many firms struggle with how to effectively include ESG in their transactions. This article provides M&A practitioners with key actions they can take to incorporate ESG throughout the deal process, from pre-deal analysis through post-transaction integration. A case example from a large state-owned Norwegian utility is provided.

Originality/value

The body of literature about M&A transactions is extensive, as is the recent writing about the importance of ESG to firms' costs, revenue, and societal impact. This article brings these two aspects together by providing M&A practitioners with key actions they can take to incorporate ESG throughout the deal process, from pre-deal analysis through post-transaction integration.
Investor value orientation and environmental and social implications: a case of New Zealand agribusinesses
Authors: Perera Ahesha
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the value orientations of New Zealand agribusiness investors and how these orientations influence their reactions to the environmental and social implications of agribusinesses.

Design/methodology/approach

In the context of the New Zealand agricultural sector, the views of investors as published in print and broadcast media between 2018 and 2022 are gathered. The study uses qualitative content analysis to analyse the data. The study is based on the value-belief-norm theory.

Findings

The study reveals that New Zealand agribusiness investors express concern about the environmental (biospheric) and social (altruistic) impacts of the agribusiness sector, prompting calls for greater transparency, climate adaptation and ethical investment options. Additionally, they actively support local businesses to benefit their communities and preserve cultural heritage. Despite these biospheric and altruistic tendencies, investors also prioritise financial and non-financial interests (egoistic). This highlights a nuanced perspective guiding their investment choices – a balance between self-interest and contributing to the greater good. This signals a shift towards socially and environmentally responsible investment practices driven by multifaceted values.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this study highlight the role of non-pecuniary motives, like values, in determining the relevance of environmental and social information.

Practical implications

The study’s findings offer insight to agribusinesses on how investors’ value orientations shape their investment decisions. This understanding can guide businesses in framing a reporting strategy that enhances the likelihood of investors perceiving reporting as relevant and persuasive, thereby attracting more investments. In turn, this tailored reporting approach assists investors in making well-informed decisions in assessing the environmental and societal risks of agribusinesses.

Originality/value

The study offers a framework explaining how agribusinesses can increase the likelihood of investors finding firms reporting relevant and persuasive, leading to increased investments in environmentally and socially sustainable practices.
Building technology integration at an urban school through a PDS partnership
Authors: Silver Patrice , Dupuis Juliann , Durham Rachel E. , Schaaf Ryan , Pallett Lisa , Watson Lauren
Published: April 2024

Purpose

In 2022, the Baltimore professional development school (PDS) partner schools, John Ruhruh Elementary/Middle School (JREMS) and Notre Dame of Maryland University (NDMU) received funds through a Maryland Educational Emergency Revitalization (MEER) grant to determine (a) to what extent additional resources and professional development would increase JREMS teachers’ efficacy in technology integration and (b) to what extent NDMU professional development in the form of workshops and self-paced computer science modules would result in greater use of technology in the JREMS K-8 classrooms. Results indicated a statistically significant improvement in both teacher comfort with technology and integrated use of technology in instruction.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data were collected on teacher-stated comfort with technology before and after grant implementation. Teachers’ use of technology was also measured by unannounced classroom visits by administration before and after the grant implementation and through artifacts teachers submitted during NDMU professional development modules.

Findings

Results showing significant increases in self-efficacy with technology along with teacher integration of technology exemplify the benefits of a PDS partnership.

Originality/value

This initiative was original in its approach to teacher development by replacing required teacher professional development with an invitation to participate and an incentive for participation (a personal MacBook) that met the stated needs of teachers. Teacher motivation was strong because teammates in a strong PDS partnership provided the necessary supports to induce changes in teacher self-efficacy.
Women's Dharma: Parwati Soepangat and Buddhist Feminist Theology in Postcolonial Indonesia*
Authors: Chia Jack Meng‐Tat
Published: April 2024

This article uses the life and career of Parwati Soepangat as a case study to shed light on the narrative of Buddhist women in postcolonial Indonesia. It contends that, unlike Theravāda Buddhist‐majority nations in mainland Southeast Asia, Indonesia's lack of a patriarchal monastic authority allowed Buddhist women, like Parwati Soepangat, to emerge within the Indonesian Buddhayāna movement. This movement, advocating for inclusive and nonsectarian indigenous Buddhism, aimed to promote “Indonesian Buddhism” (agama Buddha Indonesia) as a diverse yet unified religion in harmony with the motto of “Unity in Diversity.” Through the examination of interviews, Buddhist publications, periodicals, and Parwati Soepangat's personal writings, this research delves into her dual minority status — both as a Buddhist and a woman — in a predominantly Muslim nation. As this article will illustrate, Parwati Soepangat championed the concept of “Buddhist feminist theology” (teologi feminis Buddha) and simultaneously advocated for gender equality and women's empowerment as strategic approaches to propagate Buddhist teachings throughout Indonesia and amplify women's participation in the Indonesian Buddhayāna movement.
Comparing the safety and effectiveness of surgical approaches in thymectomy
Authors: Lau Rebecca , Aw Katherine , Abdul Sami Aftab , Anstee Caitlin , Gilbert Sebastien , Jones Daniel , Seely Andrew J. E. , Sundaresan R. Sudhir , Villeneuve Patrick J. , Maziak Donna E.
Published: April 2024

Objective

To compare the safety and effectiveness of different surgical approaches in thymectomy: robotics, subxiphoid, lateral video‐assisted thoracoscopy surgery (LVATS) and open.

Methodology

We retrospectively reviewed 68 cases of thymectomy with a robot‐assisted, subxiphoid, LVATS, open sternotomy or thoracotomy approach for thymic lesions or myasthenia gravis between July 2017 and May 2023 at a single centre. Peri‐operative outcomes (operating time, estimated blood loss, conversion rates, R0 resection, adverse events and length of stay [LOS]) were collected.

Results

We observed six conversions to open (from five LVATS and one robot assisted). The median estimated blood loss was lower for LVATS (100.00 [50.0–100.0] mL) compared with open thymectomies (200.0 [150.0–400.0]; P < .001). No intra‐operative adverse events were reported in the robotics, subxiphoid or LVATS groups. In patients with thymic tumours (n = 34), R0 resection was achieved in 100% (2/2) of robotics, 83% of subxiphoid (5/6), 93% (13/14) of LVATS and 75% (n = 9/12) of open cases. The median LOS was shortest for robot assisted (1.0 [interquartile range (IQR) 1.0–3.0]), then subxiphoid (2.0 [IQR 1.0–3.0]), LVATS (2.0 [IQR 1.0–3.0]) then open (5.0 [IQR 4.0–6.0]; P < .001).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that with a shorter LOS, robotics, subxiphoid and LVATS thymectomies are safe. Larger size studies are required to compare R0 resection rates between these less invasive surgical approaches.
Characterization of an extremophile bacterial acid phosphatase derived from metagenomics analysis
Authors: Recio Maria‐Isabel , de la Torre Jesús , Daddaoua Abdelali , Udaondo Zulema , Duque Estrella , Gavira José Antonio , López‐Sánchez Carmen , Ramos Juan L.
Published: April 2024

Acid phosphatases are enzymes that play a crucial role in the hydrolysis of various organophosphorous molecules. A putative acid phosphatase called FS6 was identified using genetic profiles and sequences from different environments. FS6 showed high sequence similarity to type C acid phosphatases and retained more than 30% of consensus residues in its protein sequence. A histidine‐tagged recombinant FS6 produced in Escherichia coli exhibited extremophile properties, functioning effectively in a broad pH range between 3.5 and 8.5. The enzyme demonstrated optimal activity at temperatures between 25 and 50°C, with a melting temperature of 51.6°C. Kinetic parameters were determined using various substrates, and the reaction catalysed by FS6 with physiological substrates was at least 100‐fold more efficient than with p‐nitrophenyl phosphate. Furthermore, FS6 was found to be a decamer in solution, unlike the dimeric forms of crystallized proteins in its family.
Plastics and the Sustainable Development Goals: From waste to wealth with microbial recycling and upcycling
Authors: Pereyra‐Camacho Marco A. , Pardo Isabel
Published: April 2024

Plastics pollution has become one of the greatest concerns of the 21st century. To date, around 10 billion tons of plastics have been produced almost exclusively from non‐renewable sources, and of these, <10% have been recycled. The majority of discarded plastic waste (>70%) is accumulating in landfills or the environment, causing severe impacts to natural ecosystems and human health. Considering how plastics are present in every aspect of our daily lives, it is evident that a transition towards a Circular Economy of plastics is essential to achieve several of the Sustainable Development Goals. In this editorial, we highlight how microbial biotechnology can contribute to this shift, with a special focus on the biological recycling of conventional plastics and the upcycling of plastic‐waste feedstocks into new value‐added products. Although important hurdles will need to be overcome in this endeavour, recent success stories highlight how interdisciplinary approaches can bring us closer to a bio‐based economy for the sustainable management of plastics.
Further learning of clinical characteristics and imaging manifestations of nonketotic hyperglycemic hemichorea
Authors: Wang Xiaoyu , Zhang Yuting , Yang Fan , Bao Suqing , Duan Lijun , Jiang Xia
Published: April 2024

Objective

To summarize the clinical characteristics and imaging manifestations of patients with nonketotic hyperglycemic hemichorea (NH‐HC) and to explore the possible pathogenesis, diagnosis. and treatment of the disease in order to improve the understanding of this disease and avoid misdiagnosis.

Methods

Retrospective analysis was performed on the case data of five patients with NH‐HC admitted to our hospital in recent years. The patients were treated in the department of endocrinology, department of neurology, and department of neurosurgery in our hospital, respectively. Meanwhile, relevant literatures were consulted for further learning.

Results

NH‐HC is usually presented as a triad of nonketotic hyperglycemia, lateral chorea, and typical imaging manifestations of head magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography, but the clinical manifestations are not the same, and imaging features may also be different, presenting a diversified trend in clinical practice. All five patients were given glucose‐lowering drugs and improved with or without combination of drugs to control symptoms of chorea.

Conclusion

NH‐HC is a rare complication of diabetes, characterized by hyperglycemia and hemichorea. How to identify the extreme situation and make fast judgment is a top priority. Timely and correct control of blood glucose is the key to the treatment, and when necessary, application of dopamine receptor antagonists in patients with combination therapy can accelerate improvement of the clinical symptoms. The prognosis of NH‐HC is good, the clinician should strengthen comprehensive understanding of this disease to avoid missed diagnosis or misdiagnosis and enable patients to get more timely and effective treatment.

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Early versus late advanced airway management for adult patients with out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest: A time‐dependent propensity score–matched analysis
Authors: Amagasa Shunsuke , Iwamoto Shintaro , Kashiura Masahiro , Yasuda Hideto , Kishihara Yuki , Uematsu Satoko , Moriya Takashi
Published: April 2024

Objective

The objective was to investigate whether early advanced airway management during the entire resuscitation period is associated with favorable neurological outcomes and survival in patients with out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA).

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients with OHCA aged ≥18 years enrolled in OHCA registry in Japan who received advanced airway management during cardiac arrest between June 2014 and December 2020. To address resuscitation time bias, we performed risk set matching analyses in which patients who did and did not receive advanced airway management were matched at the same time point (min) using the time‐dependent propensity score; further, we compared early (≤10 min) and late (>10 min) advanced airway management. The primary and secondary outcome measures were favorable neurological outcomes using Cerebral Performance Category scores and survival at 1 month after cardiac arrest.

Results

Of the 41,101 eligible patients, 21,446 patients received early advanced airway management. Thus, risk set matching was performed with a total of 42,866 patients. In the main analysis, early advanced airway management was significantly associated with favorable neurological outcomes (risk ratio [RR] 0.997, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.995–0.999) and survival (RR 0.990, 95% CI 0.986–0.994) at 1 month after cardiac arrest. In the sensitivity analysis with early advanced airway management defined as ≤5 min and ≤20 min, the results were comparable.

Conclusions

Although early advanced airway management was statistically significant for improved neurological outcomes and survival at 1 month after cardiac arrest, the RR was very close to 1, indicating that the timing of advanced airway management has minimal impact on clinical outcomes, and decisions should be made based on the individual needs of the patient.
Study on the origin of the Baise horse based on whole‐genome resequencing
Authors: Lin Xiaoran , Feng Mo , Li Ying , Liu Yu , Wang Min , Li Yuanyuan , Yang Tao , Zhao Chunjiang
Published: April 2024

The Baise horse, an indigenous horse breed mainly distributed in the Baise region of Guangxi province in southwest China, has a long history as draft animal. However, there is a lack of research regarding the origin and ancestral composition of the Baise horse. In this study, whole‐genome resequencing data from 236 horses of seven Chinese indigenous horse breeds, five foreign horse breeds, and four Przewalski's horses were used to investigate the relationships between the Baise horse and other horse breeds. The results showed that foreign horse breeds had no significant impact on the formation of the Baise horse. The two southwestern horse populations, the Debao pony and the Jinjiang horse, exhibit the closest genetic affinity with the Baise horse. This is consistent with their adjacent geographical distribution. Analysis of the migration route revealed a gene flow from the Chakouyi horse into the Baise horse. In summary, our results confirm that the formation of the Baise horse did not involve participation from foreign breeds. Geographical distance emerges as a crucial factor in determining the genetic relationships with the Baise horse. Gene flows of indigenous horse breeds along ancient routes of trade activities had played a role in the formation of the Baise horse.
Red light game identifies ineffective criminal deterrence
Authors: Hofer Jonathan
Published: April 2024

The proceeding investigates the ineffectiveness of law enforcement placement in specific circumstances from the penological framework of rational choice theory. This work employs game theory modeling to determine an individual's propensity to commit a crime. The succeeding illustrates how it is counterproductive to nudge potential criminals where socially preferable behavior corresponds to a pure strategy Nash equilibrium in a simultaneous two‐player game. The result of this analysis demonstrates an addendum to contemporary rational choice theory in criminology. The solutions of these stage games show that increasing the placement of criminal deterrents, like surveillance or fines intended to reduce the number of opportunities to commit deviant behavior, is dysfunctional under particular circumstances. This suggests that law enforcement resources should not be directed to enforcing certain crimes. The implications of this work could help optimize department assets and personnel hours.
The effect of axial length on pseudophakic retinal detachment
Authors: Thylefors Joakim , Sheikh Rafi , Jakobsson Gunnar
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to analyse the surgical management and outcome regarding axial length in the population affected by pseudophakic retinal detachment (PRD) 2015–2020.

Method

The patients included were from an observational cohort study of patients undergoing cataract surgery in the region of Skåne during 2015–2017. Data were retrieved from the Swedish National Cataract Register and cross‐referenced with cases of PRD in the same region from 2015 to 2020. The surgical method used and findings at follow‐up were recorded. The patients were stratified according to axial length (AL) to <25 mm, 25 ≤ n < 26.5 mm and ≥26.5 mm. The main outcome was primary success with one surgery apart from silicone oil removal. The secondary outcome was postoperative visual acuity.

Results

In the whole study group of 58 624 cases, complete follow‐up data were available for 288 eyes. The median follow‐up time was 324 days, and primary operation was successful in 82.9% of these cases. The median visual acuity was 0.31 (LogMAR). In the stratification those with AL < 25 mm had a primary success of 75.8%, AL 25 ≤ n < 26.5 mm of 87.9% and ≥26.5 mm of 95.8%.

Conclusions

The primary anatomical success was 82.9% in the whole group of PRD but with stratification they had an increasing number of primary success with longer AL.
Immunomodulation by juglone alleviates acute graft‐versus‐host disease without compromising the graft‐versus‐leukaemia activity in mice
Authors: Gohil Dievya , Gandhi Khushboo A. , Gupta Saurabh Kumar , Gera Poonam , Yadav Subhash , Patwardhan Raghavendra , Checker Rahul , Sharma Deepak , Khattry Navin , Sandur Santosh , Gota Vikram
Published: April 2024

Background and Purpose

Acute graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) remains a major barrier to successful transplantation outcomes. Recent studies have shown that pharmacotherapy for GVHD should target both the innate and adaptive inflammatory immune responses. Juglone, a redox‐active phytochemical found in walnuts, has shown potent anti‐inflammatory effects in models of colitis and inflammatory bowel disease. However, its effects on T‐cell‐mediated immune responses remain largely unknown. Considering the overlapping mediators of inflammation in GVHD and the aforementioned conditions, we investigated the use of juglone as a prophylactic agent for GVHD.

Experimental Approach

Immunomodulatory activity and mechanism of action of juglone were studied using murine splenic leukocytes in vitro. The GVHD prophylactic efficacy of orally administered juglone was evaluated using a murine model of allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation based on an MHC mismatch.

Key Results

Juglone exhibited immunomodulatory activity by (i) inhibiting the activation of dendritic cells and CD4+ T‐cells, (ii) inhibiting cytokine secretion and lymphocyte proliferation, and (iii) inducing exhaustion of CD4+ T‐cells, as shown by increased expression of CTLA‐4 (CD152) and Fas (CD95). Oral administration of juglone significantly reduced mortality and morbidity associated with GVHD while maintaining graft‐versus‐leukaemia activity. This was accompanied by a decrease in the number of naïve CD4+ cells, and an increase in the number of CD4+ and CD8+ central memory T‐cells.

Conclusion and Implications

Juglone is a potent immunomodulator for GVHD prophylaxis. Our study is the first to provide a dosage framework for the oral administration of juglone that can be used for clinical development.
Intracellular pathways of calcitonin gene‐related peptide‐induced relaxation of human coronary arteries: A key role for Gβγ subunit instead of cAMP
Authors: de Vries Tessa , Labruijere Sieneke , Rivera‐Mancilla Eduardo , Garrelds Ingrid M. , de Vries René , Schutter Dennis , van den Bogaerdt Antoon , Poyner David R. , Ladds Graham , Danser A. H. Jan , MaassenVanDenBrink Antoinette
Published: April 2024

Background and Purpose

Calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) is a potent vasodilator. While its signalling is assumed to be mediated via increases in cAMP, this study focused on elucidating the actual intracellular signalling pathways involved in CGRP‐induced relaxation of human isolated coronary arteries (HCA).

Experimental Approach

HCA were obtained from heart valve donors (27 M, 25 F, age 54 ± 2 years). Concentration–response curves to human α‐CGRP or forskolin were constructed in HCA segments, incubated with different inhibitors of intracellular signalling pathways, and intracellular cAMP levels were measured with and without stimulation.

Results

Adenylyl cyclase (AC) inhibitors SQ22536 + DDA and MDL‐12330A, and PKA inhibitors Rp‐8‐Br‐cAMPs and H89, did not inhibit CGRP‐induced relaxation of HCA, nor did the guanylyl cyclase inhibitor ODQ, PKG inhibitor KT5823, EPAC1/2 inhibitor ESI09, potassium channel blockers TRAM‐34 + apamin, iberiotoxin or glibenclamide, or the Gαq inhibitor YM‐254890. Phosphodiesterase inhibitors induced a concentration‐dependent decrease in the response to KCl but did not potentiate relaxation to CGRP. Relaxation to forskolin was not blocked by PKA or AC inhibitors, although AC inhibitors significantly inhibited the increase in cAMP. Inhibition of Gβγ subunits using gallein significantly inhibited the relaxation to CGRP in human coronary arteries.

Conclusion

While CGRP signalling is generally assumed to act via cAMP, the CGRP‐induced vasodilation in HCA was not inhibited by targeting this intracellular signalling pathway at different levels. Instead, inhibition of Gβγ subunits did inhibit the relaxation to CGRP, suggesting a different mechanism of CGRP‐induced relaxation than generally believed.
Five decades of research on immediate implant therapy: A modern bibliometric network analysis via Altmetric and level of evidence mapping
Authors: Sabri Hamoun , Manouchehri Neshatafarin , Tavelli Lorenzo , Kan Joseph Y. K. , Wang Hom‐Lay , Barootchi Shayan
Published: April 2024

Aim

To conduct a bibliometric network analysis to explore the research landscape of immediate implant placement (IIP) and provide insights into its trends and contributors.

Materials and Methods

The Scopus database was utilized as the bibliographic source, and a search strategy was implemented to identify relevant research articles. Various bibliometric parameters were extracted, including publication year, journal, authors, citations, and funding. The analysis involved examining authorship patterns, international collaborations, level of evidence, Altmetric data, and funding analysis.

Results

We identified a steady annual growth rate of 6.49% in IIP research. The top three countries contributing to research output were the USA, Italy, and China. Prolific authors were identified based on publication and citation metrics. International collaborations among different countries were observed. The level of evidence analysis revealed that over 30% of the articles fell into higher levels of evidence (levels 1 and 2). Altmetric data analysis indicated no significant correlations between citation counts and Altmetric Attention Score (AAS), and conversely a significant association with Mendeley readers count. Funding and open access did not significantly impact the bibliometric indices of the papers.

Conclusions

The focus of research on IIP has been evolving as indicated by an exponential growth rate in this study. Only approximately 16% of the articles fit into level 1 evidence, therefore, emphasizing on higher quality level research study shortage in this field. Modern indices can be used as new bibliometric indicators as they also cover social media and online attention scores.
Deciphering the intricate linkage between the gut microbiota and Alzheimer's disease: Elucidating mechanistic pathways promising therapeutic strategies
Authors: Liang Junyi , Wang Yueyang , Liu Bin , Dong Xiaohong , Cai Wenhui , Zhang Ning , Zhang Hong
Published: April 2024

Background

The gut microbiome is composed of various microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and protozoa, and constitutes an important part of the human gut. Its composition is closely related to human health and disease. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease whose underlying mechanism has not been fully elucidated. Recent research has shown that there are significant differences in the gut microbiota between AD patients and healthy individuals. Changes in the composition of gut microbiota may lead to the development of harmful factors associated with AD. In addition, the gut microbiota may play a role in the development and progression of AD through the gut–brain axis. However, the exact nature of this relationship has not been fully understood.

Aims

This review will elucidate the types and functions of gut microbiota and their relationship with AD and explore in depth the potential mechanisms of gut microbiota in the occurrence of AD and the prospects for treatment strategies.

Methods

Reviewed literature from PubMed and Web of Science using key terminologies related to AD and the gut microbiome.

Results

Research indicates that the gut microbiota can directly or indirectly influence the occurrence and progression of AD through metabolites, endotoxins, and the vagus nerve.

Discussion

This review discusses the future challenges and research directions regarding the gut microbiota in AD.

Conclusion

While many unresolved issues remain regarding the gut microbiota and AD, the feasibility and immense potential of treating AD by modulating the gut microbiota are evident.
Point‐of‐care β‐hydroxybutyrate measurement predicts adequate glucose metabolism suppression in cardiac FDG‐PET/CT
Authors: Hartikainen Suvi , Tompuri Tuomo , Laitinen Tiina , Laitinen Tomi
Published: April 2024

Aims

The aims of our study were to evaluate whether point‐of‐care β‐hydroxybutyrate (BHB) measurement can be used to identify patients with adequate cardiac glucose metabolism suppression for cardiac [18F]‐fluoro‐2‐deoxy‐d‐glucose‐positron emission tomography with computerized tomography (FDG‐PET/CT) and to develop a pretest probability calculator of myocardial suppression using other metabolic factors attainable before imaging.

Methods and Results

We recruited 193 patients with any clinical indication for whole body [18F]‐FDG‐PET/CT. BHB level was measured with a point‐of‐care device. Maximal myocardial standardized uptake value using lean body mass (SULmax) was measured from eight circular regions of interest with 1 cm circumference and background from left ventricular blood pool. Correlations SULmax and point‐of‐care measured BHB were analysed. The ability of BHB test to predict adequate suppression was evaluated with receiver operating characteristic analysis. Liver and spleen attenuation in computed tomography were measured to assess the presence of fatty liver. BHB level correlated with myocardial uptake and, using a cut‐off value of 0.35 mmol/L to predict adequate myocardial suppression, we reached specificity of 90% and sensitivity of 56%. Other variables to predict adequate suppression were diabetes, obesity, ketogenic diet and fatty liver. Using information attainable before imaging, we created a pretest probability calculator of inadequate myocardial glucose metabolism suppression. The area under the curve for BHB test alone was 0.802 and was 0.857 for the pretest calculator (p = 0.319).

Conclusions

BHB level measured with a point‐of‐care device is useful in predicting adequate myocardial glucose metabolism suppression. More detailed assessment of other factors potentially contributing to cardiac metabolism is needed.
Sleep duration and association with cardiometabolic health in adolescents and adults with type 1 diabetes: Results from the BCQR‐T1D study
Authors: Simon Stacey L. , Snell‐Bergeon Janet K. , Schäfer Michal , Barker Alex J. , Browne Lorna P. , Truong Uyen , Tell Shoshana S. , Vigers Timothy , Baumgartner Amy D. , Lyon Ellen , Polsky Sarit , Schauer Irene E. , Nadeau Kristen J.
Published: April 2024

Aim

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) increases the risk of morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular disease, and insufficient sleep is prevalent. Emerging evidence suggests a link between sleep and cardiometabolic health, but this has not been examined across the lifespan in individuals with T1D. We aimed to examine associations between sleep and cardiometabolic health in adolescents and adults with T1D in a secondary analysis of data from a 4‐week double‐blind, random‐order, placebo‐controlled crossover trial of bromocriptine quick release (BCQR) therapy with a 4‐week washout in between conditions.

Materials and Methods

Forty‐two adults (19‐60 years) and 42 adolescents (12‐18 years) with T1D >9 months completed 1 week of home monitoring with wrist‐worn actigraphy to estimate sleep duration and continuous glucose monitoring, anthropometrics, arterial stiffness, magnetic resonance imaging (adolescents only), and fasting laboratory testing at each treatment phase.

Results

Sixty‐two per cent of adolescents and 74% of adults obtained <7 h of sleep per night at baseline. After adjustment for age, sex and diabetes duration, baseline sleep <7 h per night was associated with a higher body mass index, a higher waist circumference, a higher systolic blood pressure, worse arterial stiffness and a lower estimated insulin sensitivity (all p < .05). When examined by age group, associations between sleep duration and cardiometabolic health outcomes remained significant, predominantly for adolescents. In adolescents only, wake time was significantly later (p = .027) and time in bed was significantly longer with BCQR versus placebo (p = .049).

Conclusions

Objectively measured sleep <7 h per night was prevalent in adolescents and adults with T1D and associated with poorer cardiometabolic health markers. Small changes in sleep were seen following BCQR treatment in adolescents only. Sleep may be an important and novel target for improving cardiometabolic health in individuals with T1D.
Fertility and long‐term economic growth
Authors: Huang Kaixing
Published: April 2024

Empirical studies have generally found that higher fertility has a negative or insignificant effect on economic growth. This article argues that this is because existing studies have failed to capture the long‐term lagged effects of fertility. By estimating a long‐term lagged panel model using data from 137 countries, I find that higher fertility first reduces and then increases economic growth, and the long‐term average effect is significantly positive. This finding is robust when focusing on countries at different development levels, exploiting exogenous fertility shocks from global family planning campaigns, and capitalizing on within‐country fertility variation resulting from China's one‐child policy.