bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of heart rate variability and atrial fibrillation in patients with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Nie Changrong , Lu Zhengyang , Zhu Changsheng , Xiao Minghu , Wu Zining , Yang Qiulan , Lu Tao , Meng Yanhai , Wang Shuiyun
Published: September 2023

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is surprisingly common in patients with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (oHCM) and is associated with significant symptoms and poor survival. Globally accepted models for AF detection are yet to be established. We aimed to investigate the relationship between heart rate variability (HRV) and AF in patients with oHCM.

Methods

We enrolled 1112 consecutively recruited patients with oHCM, including 158 and 954 patients with and without AF, respectively. The HRV variables mainly included the standard deviation of the mean R-R intervals (SDNN), root mean squared successive difference (rMSSD), and percentage of cycles differing from the preceding one by > 50 ms (pNN50). The SDNN, rMSSD, and pNN50 were transformed into binary variables underlying the cutoff for AF detection (termed SDNN_cutoff, rMSSD_cutoff, and pNN50_cutoff, respectively).

Results

The mean age of this cohort was 48.94 ± 12.37 years, and 451 patients were females. The patients with AF were older, more likely to have palpitations, had a larger left atrial diameter and lower left ventricular outflow gradient, and a significantly higher SDNN, rMSSD, and pNN50 than those without AF. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, pNN50_cutoff was independently associated with AF (odds ratio: 7.86, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.25–14.7), while the model including pNN50_cutoff had the largest area under the curve (0.736; 95% CI: 0.690–0.782) and the lowest Akaike information criterion (774).

Conclusion

HRV was associated with a higher incidence of AF. Among the HRV variables, pNN50_cutoff (cutoff value = 43.5) may be a good predictor of AF in patients with oHCM.
Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Phenotypic Degeneration inCordyceps militaris: Insights from Transcriptome Reanalysis and Osmotic Stress Studies
Authors: Hoang Chinh Q. , Dương Giang H , Trần Mai H. , Vu Tao X. , Tran Tram B. , Hằng T. N. Phạm
Published: September 2023

Phenotypic degeneration is a well-known phenomenon in fungi, yet the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood.Cordyceps militaris, a valuable medicinal fungus with therapeutic potential and known bioactive compounds, is vulnerable to degeneration, which is a concern for producers. However, the causes of this process are still unclear. To shed light on the molecular mechanisms responsible for phenotypic degeneration inC. militaris, we isolated two strains with different abilities to form fruiting bodies. Our observations revealed that the degenerated strain had reduced ability to develop fruiting bodies, limited radial expansion, and increased spore density. We also conducted a transcriptome reanalysis and identified dysregulation of genes involved in the MAPK signaling pathway in the degenerate strain. Our RT-qPCR results showed lower expression of genes associated with sexual development and upregulation of genes linked to asexual sporulation in the degenerate strain compared to the wild-type strain. We also found dysregulation of genes involved in glycerol synthesis and MAPK regulation. Additionally, we discovered that osmotic stress reduced radial growth but increased conidia sporulation and glycerol accumulation in both strains, and hyperosmotic stress inhibited fruiting body formation in all neutralized strains. These findings suggest that the MAPK signaling pathway is dysregulated in the degenerate strain and the high-osmolarity glycerol and spore formation modules may be continuously activated, while the pheromone response and filamentous growth cascades may be downregulated. Overall, our study provides valuable insights into the mechanisms underlyingC. militarisdegeneration and identifies potential targets for future studies aimed at improving cultivation practices.
Elimination of subtelomeric repeat sequences exerts little effect on telomere functions inSaccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Hu Can , Zhu Xue-Ting , He Ming-Hong , Shao Yangyang , Qin Zhongjun , Wu Zhi-Jing , Zhou Jin-Qiu
Published: September 2023

Telomeres, which are chromosomal end structures, play a crucial role in maintaining genome stability and integrity in eukaryotes. In the baker’s yeastSaccharomyces cerevisiae, the X- and Y’-elements are subtelomeric repetitive sequences found in all thirty-two and seventeen telomeres, respectively. While the Y’-elements serve as a backup for telomere functions in cells lacking telomerase, the function of the X-elements remains unclear. This study utilized theS. cerevisiaestrain SY12, which has three chromosomes and six telomeres, to investigate the role of X-elements (as well as Y’-elements) in telomere maintenance. Deletion of Y’-elements (SY12YΔ), X-elements (SY12XYΔ+Y), or both X- and Y’-elements (SY12XYΔ) did not impact the length of the terminal TG1-3tracks or telomere silencing. However, inactivation of telomerase in SY12YΔ, SY12XYΔ+Y, and SY12XYΔcells resulted in cellular senescence and the generation of survivors. These survivors either maintained their telomeres through homologous recombination-dependent TG1-3track elongation or underwent microhomology-mediated intra-chromosomal end-to-end joining. Our findings indicate the non-essential role of subtelomeric X- and Y’-elements in telomere regulation in both telomerase-proficient and telomerase-null cells and suggest that these elements may represent remnants ofS. cerevisiaegenome evolution. Furthermore, strains with fewer or no subtelomeric elements exhibit more concise telomere structures and offer potential models for future studies in telomere biology.
Genome assembly of the bearded irisIris pallidaLam
Authors: Bruccoleri Robert E. , Oakeley Edward J. , Faust Ann Marie E , Altorfer Marc , Dessus-Babus Sophie , Burckhardt David , Oertli Mevion , Naumann Ulrike , Petersen Frank , Wong Joanne
Published: September 2023

Irises are perennial plants, representing a large genus with hundreds of species. While cultivated extensively for their ornamental value, commercial interest in irises lies in the secondary metabolites present in their rhizomes. The Dalmatian Iris (Iris pallidaLam.) is an ornamental plant that also produces secondary metabolites with potential value to the fragrance and pharmaceutical industries. In addition to providing base notes for the fragrance industry, iris tissues and extracts possess anti-oxidant, anti- inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. However, study of these secondary metabolites has been hampered by a lack of genomic information, instead requiring difficult extraction and analysis techniques. Here, we report the genome sequence ofIris pallidaLam., generated with Pacific Bioscience long-read sequencing, resulting in a 10.04 Gbp assembly with a scaffold N50 of 14.34 Mbp and 91.8% complete BUSCOs. This reference genome will allow researchers to study the biosynthesis of these secondary metabolites in much greater detail, opening new avenues of investigation for drug discovery and fragrance formulations.

Research area: Genetics and Genomics; Botany; Plant Genetics
Self-control is associated with health-relevant disparities in buccal DNA-methylation measures of biological aging in older adults
Authors: Willems Y.E. , deSteiguer A. , Tanksley P.T. , Vinnik L. , Främke D. , Okbay A. , Richter D. , Wagner G. G. , Hertwig R. , Koellinger P. , Tucker-Drob E.M. , Harden K. P. , Raffington L.
Published: September 2023

Self-control is a personality dimension that is associated with better physical health and a longer lifespan. Here we examined (1) whether self-control is associated with buccal and saliva DNA-methylation (DNAm) measures of biological aging quantified in children, adolescents, and adults, and (2) whether biological aging measured in buccal DNAm is associated with self-reported health. Following preregistered analyses, we computed two DNAm measures of advanced biological age (PhenoAge and GrimAge Acceleration) and a DNAm measure of pace of aging (DunedinPACE) in buccal samples from the German Socioeconomic Panel Study (SOEP-G[ene],n= 1058, age range 0-72,Mage= 42.65) and saliva samples from the Texas Twin Project (TTP,n= 1327, age range 8-20,Mage= 13.50). We found that lower self-control was associated with advanced biological age in older adults (β=-.34), but not young adults, adolescents or children. This association was not accounted for by statistical correction for socioeconomic contexts, BMI, or genetic correlates of low self-control. Moreover, a faster pace of aging and advanced biological age measured in buccal DNAm were associated with worse self-reported health (β=.13 toβ= .19). But, effect sizes were weaker than observations in blood, thus customization of DNAm aging measures to buccal and saliva tissues may be necessary. Our findings are consistent with the hypothesis that self-control is associated with health via pathways that accelerate biological aging in older adults.
Symptom experience before vs. after confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection: a population and case control study using prospectively recorded symptom data
Authors: Sudre Carole H. , Antonelli Michela , Cheetham Nathan J , Molteni Erika , Canas Liane S , Bowyer Vicky , Murray Ben , Rjoob Khaled , Modat Marc , Pujol Joan Capdevila , Hu Christina , Wolf Jonathan , Spector Tim D , Hammers Alexander , Steves Claire J , Ourselin Sebastien , Duncan Emma L
Published: September 2023

Background

Some individuals experience prolonged illness after acute COVID-19. We assessed whether pre-infection symptoms affected post-COVID illness duration.

Methods

Survival analysis was performed in adults (n=23,452) with community-managed SARC-CoV-2 infection prospectively self-logging data through the ZOE COVID Symptom Study app, at least weekly, from 8 weeks before to 12 weeks after COVID-19 onset, conditioned on presence vs. absence of baseline symptoms (4-8 weeks before COVID-19). A case-control study was performed in 1350 individuals with long illness (≥8 weeks, 906 [67.1%] with illness ≥12 weeks), matched 1:1 (for age, sex, body mass index, testing week, prior infection, vaccination, smoking, index of multiple deprivation) with 1350 individuals with short illness (<4 weeks). Baseline symptoms were compared between the two groups; and against post-COVID symptoms.

Findings

Individuals reporting baseline symptoms had longer post-COVID symptom duration (from 10 to 15 days) with baseline fatigue nearly doubling duration. Two-thirds (910 of 1350 [67.4%]) of individuals with long illness were asymptomatic beforehand. However, 440 (32.6%) had baseline symptoms, vs. 255 (18.9%) of 1350 individuals with short illness (p<0.0001). Baseline symptoms increased the odds ratio for long illness (2.14 [CI: 1.78; 2.57]). Prior comorbidities were more common in individuals with long vs. short illness. In individuals with long illness, baseline symptomatic (vs. asymptomatic) individuals were more likely to be female, younger, and have prior comorbidities; and baseline and post-acute symptoms and symptom burden correlated strongly.

Interpretation

Individuals experiencing symptoms before COVID-19 have longer illness duration and increased odds of long illness. However, many individuals with long illness are well before SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Linear ablation for persistent atrial fibrillation: an evidence-based study
Authors: Xu Changhao , Li Kaige , Zhu Xiyao , Wang Xinhua , Ye Ping , Jiang Weifeng , Wu Shaohui , Xu Kai , Li Xiangting , Wang Ying , Zheng Qidong , Wang Yanzhe , Leng Lihua , Zhang Zengtang , Han Bing , Zhang Yu , Qin Mu , Liu Xu
Published: September 2023

Background

Additional linear ablation for persistent atrial fibrillation (PerAF) still has limited evidence-based medical proof.

Objectives

We probed into the mechanisms of intermediate atrial tachycardia (AT) during PerAF termination by catheter ablation and provided evidence for it.

Methods

136 patients who converted to organized AT after PerAF termination in the Extent-AF study were analyzed. Bi-atrial activation mapping combined with entrainment mapping were performed to identify the mechanisms and critical isthmus of these ATs.

Results

A total of 164 ATs in 136 patients were identified (average 1.2 per patients) and 143 (87%) ATs in 113 patients (average 1.3 per patient) were successfully mapped. The mechanisms of intermediate ATs were macro-reentry in 110 (77%), micro-reentry in 21 (15%), and focal AT in 12 (8%). Among the macro-reentrant ATs, the most common were perimitral ATs (PM-AT) 52 (47%), followed by roof dependent ATs (RF-AT) in 40 (36%) and typical atrial flutter (AFL) in 18 (16%). 98 (72%) patients had successfully ablated intermediate ATs. Among these patients, 88 (90%) required at least one of the perimitral line, roofline, or peritricuspid line to finally restore sinus rhythm. At the end of 12 months of follow-up, 63 (64.3%) patients with successful ablative ATs were free of any arrhythmia.

Conclusion

The majority of intermediate ATs after PerAF termination were macro-reentrant ATs. Linear ablation targets the mitral isthmus, roof, and tricuspid isthmus was a critical step of PerAF ablation to restore sinus rhythm in up to 90% patients, suggesting the importance of additional linear ablation.
WITHDRAWN: Caries Lesion Assessment Using 3D Virtual Models By Examiners with Different Degrees of Clinical Experience
Authors: Porumb Ioana , Leucuta Daniel Corneliu , Banut Marius , Culic Bogdan , Lucaciu Ondine Patricia , Culic Carina , Simu Meda-Romana , Badea Iulia Clara , Leghezeu Alexa-Nicole , Sandu Iulia , Nigoghossian Marion
Published: September 2023

Withdrawal Statement

The authors have withdrawn their manuscripthttps://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2023.08.30.23294877v1owing to the fact that they have new data and they are currently preparing an updated version.

Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as reference for the project. If you have any questions, please contact the corresponding author of MS ID#: MEDRXIV/2023/294877
Not fleeting but lasting: Limited influence of aging on implicit adaptative motor learning and its short-term retention.
Authors: Hermans Pauline , Vandevoorde Koenraad , Orban de Xivry Jean-Jacques
Published: September 2023

In motor adaptation, learning is thought to rely on a combination of several processes. Two of these are implicit learning (incidental updating of the sensory prediction error) and explicit learning (intentional adjustment to reduce target error). The explicit component is thought to be fast adapting, while the implicit one is slow. The dynamic integration of these components can lead to an adaptation rebound, called spontaneous recovery: the trace of a first, longer learned adaptation reappears after it is extinguished by a shorter period of de-adaptation. The slow implicit process is still decaying from the first adaptation, resulting in the before mentioned adaptation rebound. Trewartha et al. (2014) found that older adults show less spontaneous recovery than their younger controls, indicating impairments in implicit learning. This is in disagreement with evidence suggesting that the implicit component and its retention does not decline with aging. To clarify this discrepancy, we performed a conceptual replication of that result. Twenty-eight healthy young and 20 healthy older adults learned to adapt to a forcefield perturbation in a paradigm known to elicit spontaneous recovery. Both groups adapted equally well to the perturbation. Implicit adaptation of the older subjects was indistinguishable from their younger counterparts. In addition, we failed to replicate the result of Trewartha et al. (2014) and found that the spontaneous recovery was also similar across groups. Our results reconcile previous studies by showing that both spontaneous recovery and implicit adaptation are unaffected by aging.
Altered iron-sulfur cluster transfer in Arabidopsis mitochondria reveals lipoyl synthase as a Janus-faced enzyme that generates toxic sulfide
Authors: Pedroletti Luca , Moseler Anna , Timm Stefan , Poschet Gernot , Homagk Maria , The Jeremy X. L. , Wagner Stephan , Wirtz Markus , Hell Rüdiger , Meyer Andreas J.
Published: September 2023

Iron–sulfur (Fe–S) cluster are vital cofactors in all domains of life. Mitochondrial Fe–S cluster assembly occurs in two major steps to first build [2Fe–2S] clusters and subsequently assemble these into [4Fe–4S] clusters. The two assembly machineries are interconnected by glutaredoxin S15 (GRXS15) that transfers [2Fe–2S] clusters to the second machinery. Diminished cluster transfer activity of GRXS15 in Arabidopsis mitochondria causes specific defects associated with lipoyl synthase (LIP1) activity. Conversely, overexpression ofLIP1in wild-type plants causes the release of toxic amounts of sulfide that can be detoxified by increasing the capacity for sulfide fixation through overexpression ofO-acetylserine-(thiol)-lyase. The release of sulfide by lipoyl synthase causes a disturbance of mitochondrial sulfide homeostasis resulting in distinct and readily observable macroscopic phenotypes. These phenotypes enable a direct readout of consequences resulting from defects in Fe–S cluster assembly or targeted modulation of Fe–S cluster flux in mitochondria.
Heterochromatin re-organization associated with the transcriptional reprogramming under viral infection inArabidopsis
Authors: Annacondia Maria Luz , Juarez-Gonzalez Vasti Thamara , Cheng Jinping , Reig-Valiente Juan Luis , Martinez German
Published: September 2023

Epigenetic mechanisms are key regulators of genomic integrity and genic expression. Emerging evidence shows that epigenetic regulation is an important component of the transcriptional reprogramming during stress. Despite this, the overall stress-induced reprogramming of the different epigenetic marks and their targets are unknown. Here, we uncovered multiple epigenetic changes taking place during viral infection inArabidopsis thalianaand their connection with gene expression. We find that cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) infection induces an overall reorganization of the repressive epigenetic marks H3K9me2, H3K27me3, and DNA methylation, which interact between them and are dynamic during infection. Overall, these epigenetic changes are involved in the reprogramming of the transcriptional program to adapt to the biotic stress, and might ensure genome stability through the transcriptional control of transposable elements (TEs). Mechanistically, we demonstrate that the catalytic component of the Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2) CURLY LEAF (CLF) mediates the transcriptional repression of genes gaining H3K27me3 during viral infection and that mutants on that component induce resistance against CMV. Altogether, our results provide a complete picture of the epigenetic changes that occur during biotic stress and exemplify the overall dynamism of epigenetic regulation in eukaryotic organisms.
Evolutionarily related host and microbial pathways regulate fat desaturation
Authors: Fox Bennett W. , Helf Maximilian J. , Burkhardt Russell N. , Artyukhin Alexander B. , Curtis Brian J. , Palomino Diana Fajardo , Chaturbedi Amaresh , Tauffenberger Arnaud , Wrobel Chester J.J. , Zhang Ying K. , Lee Siu Sylvia , Schroeder Frank C.
Published: September 2023

Fatty acid desaturation is central to metazoan lipid metabolism and provides building blocks of membrane lipids and precursors of diverse signaling molecules. Nutritional conditions and associated microbiota regulate desaturase expression1–4, but the underlying mechanisms have remained unclear. Here, we show that endogenous and microbiota-dependent small molecule signals promote lipid desaturation via the nuclear receptor NHR-49/PPARα inC. elegans. Untargeted metabolomics of a β-oxidation mutant,acdh-11, in which expression of the stearoyl-CoA desaturase FAT-7/SCD1 is constitutively increased, revealed accumulation of a β- cyclopropyl fatty acid, becyp#1, that potently activatesfat-7expression via NHR-49. Biosynthesis of becyp#1 is strictly dependent on expression of cyclopropane synthase by associated bacteria, e.g.,E. coli. Screening for structurally related endogenous metabolites revealed a β-methyl fatty acid, bemeth#1, whose activity mimics that of microbiota-dependent becyp#1, but is derived from a methyltransferase,fcmt-1, that is conserved across Nematoda and likely originates from bacterial cyclopropane synthase via ancient horizontal gene transfer. Activation offat-7expression by these structurally similar metabolites is controlled by distinct mechanisms, as microbiota-dependent becyp#1 is metabolized by a dedicated β-oxidation pathway, while the endogenous bemeth#1 is metabolized via α-oxidation. Collectively, we demonstrate that evolutionarily related biosynthetic pathways in metazoan host and associated microbiota converge on NHR-49/PPARα to regulate fat desaturation.
Mitosis exit followed by death in interphase prevents the development of polyploid giant cancer cells
Authors: Vicente Juan Jesus , Khan Kainat , Tillinghast Grant , McFaline-Figueroa José L. , Sancak Yasemin , Stella Nephi
Published: September 2023

Microtubule targeting agents (MTAs) are commonly prescribed to treat cancers and predominantly kill cancer cells in mitosis. Significantly, some MTA-treated cancer cells can escape death in mitosis and exit mitosis, and become malignant polyploid giant cancer cells (PGCC). Considering the low number of malignant cells undergoing mitosis in tumor tissue, killing these cells in interphase may represent a favored antitumor approach. We discovered that ST-401, a mild inhibitor of microtubule assembly, preferentially kills cancer cells in interphase as opposed to mitosis, and avoids the development of PGCC. Single cell RNA sequencing identified mRNA transcripts regulated by ST-401, including mRNAs involved in ribosome and mitochondrial functions. Accordingly, ST-401 induces an integrated stress response and promotes mitochondria fission accompanied by a reduction in energy metabolism. This cell response may underly death in interphase and avoid the development of PGCC.
Upstream regulator of genomic imprinting in rice endosperm is a small RNA-associated chromatin remodeler
Authors: Pal Avik Kumar , Sundar G Vivek Hari , N Amruta , Shivaprasad P.V.
Published: September 2023

Genomic imprinting is observed in endosperm, a placenta-like seed tissue, where transposable elements (TEs) and repeat-derived small(s)RNAs mediate epigenetic changes in plants. In imprinting, uniparental gene expression arises due to parent-specific epigenetic marks on one allele but not on the other. The importance of sRNAs and their regulation in endosperm development or in imprinting is poorly understood in crops. Here we show that a previously uncharacterized CLASSY (CLSY)-family chromatin remodeler namedOsCLSY3is essential for rice endosperm development and imprinting, acting as an upstream player in sRNA pathway. Comparative transcriptome and genetic analysis indicated its endosperm-preferred expression and its paternally imprinted nature. These important features were modulated by RNA-directed DNA methylation (RdDM) of tandemly arranged TEs in its promoter. Upon perturbation ofOsCLSY3in transgenic lines we observed defects in endosperm development and loss of around 70% of all sRNAs. Interestingly, well-conserved endosperm-specific sRNAs (siren) that are vital for reproductive fitness in angiosperms were dependent onOsCLSY3. We also observed many imprinted genes and seed development-associated genes under the control of CLSY3-dependent RdDM. These results support an essential role ofOsCLSY3in rice endosperm development and imprinting, and propose similar regulatory strategies involvingCLSY3homologs among other cereals.

Highlights

Unlike among dicots, in rice and maize,CLSY3is a maternally expressed imprinted gene majorly expressed in endosperm.

Endosperm-preferred expression ofOsCLSY3is regulated by RNA-directed DNA methylation at two tandem transposon elements present in its promoter.

OsCLSY3is crucial for endosperm development and grain filling. It regulates expression of key seed development and endosperm-specific imprinted genes through RNA directed DNA methylation.
Converting an FRT-Tagged Gene into a Fluorescent Protein Gene Fusion by Flp-Mediated Site-Specific Recombination
Authors: Balbontín Roberto , Ratel Mathilde , Figueroa-Bossi Nara , Bossi Lionello
Published: September 2023

This protocol uses conditional plasmids carrying the open reading frame (orf) of either superfolder green fluorescent protein (sfGFP) or monomeric Cherry (mCherry) fused to a flippase (Flp) recognition target (FRT) site. In cells expressing the Flp enzyme, site-specific recombination between the plasmid-borne FRT and an FRT “scar” in a target gene in the bacterial chromosome results in chromosomal integration of the plasmid with the concomitant in-frame fusion of the target gene to the fluorescent protein orf. This event can be positively selected using an antibiotic-resistance marker (kanorcat) present on the plasmid. This method is slightly more laborious than generating the fusion directly by recombineering and has the limitation that the selectable marker is no longer removable. However, it has the advantage that it can be more readily integrated in mutational studies, allowing conversion of in-frame deletions resulting from Flp-mediated excision of a drug-resistance cassette (e.g., all those of the “Keio collection”) into fluorescent protein fusions. Furthermore, in studies that require that the amino-terminal moiety of the hybrid protein keeps its biological activity, presence of the FRT “linker” sequence at the fusion junction makes it less likely for the fluorescent domain to sterically interfere with the folding of the amino-terminal domain.
Tethered Preparation for the Analysis of Mosquito Visual-Motor Responses Using Modular Visual Displays
Authors: Vinauger Clément , Riffell Jeffrey A.
Published: September 2023

In the present protocol, we describe methods to assess mosquito visual-motor responses using the Reiser–Dickinson light-emitting diode (LED) panels arranged in a cylindrical arena and fixed-tethered preparations where the insect cannot adjust its orientation relative to the visual display. Variations around this approach might be better adapted for the specific requirements of each research project and must be considered by the investigators. Other types of displays may provide other stimulation possibilities (e.g., color range, refresh rate, field of view). Also, other types of preparations, such as rotating (magneto-tethered) preparations where the insect can rotate around a vertical axis and reorient relative to the visual display, may reveal other aspects of mosquito optomotor responses. Finally, the methods described here are applicable to multiple species and were used to produce data published previously using 6-d-oldAedes aegyptifemales.
Grazing-emission X-ray fluorescence as a multiprobe tool for thin-film metrology
Authors: Nikolaev K. V. , Safonov A. I. , Kondratev O. A. , Prutskov G. V. , Likhachev I. A. , Subbotin I. A. , Borisov M. M. , Tikhomirov S. A. , Pashaev E. M. , Yakunin S. N.
Published: September 2023

Recent research has demonstrated the high potential of grazing-emission X-ray fluorescence as a nanometrology tool for structures with complex 3D architecture. The technique now allows separate reconstruction of the spatial atomic distributions of different chemical elements both vertically and laterally, which opens up new and interesting applications in the nanofabrication industry. This study compares grazing-emission fluorescence with the well established grazing-incidence X-ray fluorescence method. The comparison uses a simple 1D thin-film structure. Reconstruction of the structure by both methods is performed and the statistical uncertainties of these reconstructions are compared by means of Monte Carlo Markov-chain simulations. For the forward model a semi-analytic approach is derived which allows simulation of the fluorescence intensity. This approach takes into account both grazing-incidence and grazing-emission cases. It also accounts for an even more complex physical phenomenon, the anomalous Kossel effect. Finally, using this semi-analytic approach, an experimental scheme combining grazing-incidence and grazing-emission X-ray fluorescence is studied theoretically.
The impact of corporate philanthropy on the evolution of social media brand community – based on the case of ERKE
Authors: Luo Gongli , Hao Junying , Ma He
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Corporate philanthropy is increasingly a vital decision-making basis for consumers to purchase and establish relationships with enterprises. However, few studies have examined corporate philanthropy from the perspective of community evolution. To address this gap, this study aims to provide a more in-depth and holistic investigation of corporate philanthropy by examining the evolution of social media brand communities caused by corporate philanthropy and the characteristics of consumer interactive behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

Web crawlers developed by Python were employed to collect data of ERKE from Sina Weibo (the Chinese equivalent of Twitter). A total of 2,736 posts and 7,774 comments were collected and investigated using social network and sentiment tendency analyses.

Findings

The results showed that the evolution of the social media brand community presented a prominent three-stage characteristic influenced by corporate philanthropy. The findings not only support the benefits of corporate philanthropy but also show the possible disadvantages. Besides, this study further concluded the characteristics of consumer interactive behavior in the social media brand community.

Originality/value

This paper addresses an attractive and practical issue related to the impact of corporate philanthropy. Moreover, this study is one of the first studies to examine the impact of corporate philanthropy in the context of the social media brand community. The findings of this study will provide a valuable reference for community operations and practitioners of brands.
Rural accessibility to digital libraries: requirements and challenges
Authors: Mamabolo Mapheto J. , Durodolu Oluwole Olumide
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study aims to determine the requirements and find out the challenges for the use of digital library services for rural areas of Capricorn District Municipality, Limpopo province. The research questions of the study are: What are the requirements for the use of digital library services in rural areas of Capricorn District Municipality? What are the challenges of accessing digital library services in rural areas?

Design/methodology/approach

Data was analysed thematically and deductively in this study, as researcher required to accomplish the purpose of the study through consistent structure (Zalaghi and Khazaei, 2016). In deductive analysis, the researcher starts with a set of categories, which are then used to categorize and organize data (Bertram and Christiansen, 2020). The researcher got familiar with data from the interviewing process and when transcribing data from audio tape. The transcription process was done for the coding purposes. Coding allows the researcher to simplify and focus on specific characteristics of data.

Findings

The study findings advocate for the establishment of digital libraries in rural areas. The library authorities are challenged to adapt digital ways of information provision. Since librarians have been providing digital content in libraries for use on users’ laptops and other gadgets, this implies that the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture has been lagging behind in finding innovative ways to provide information, especially in rural areas. To successfully keep libraries as sources of information, transformative measures have to be taken, and where possible, revisit the policies and keep drifting with the societal changes. The library authorities have to delve into new ways of providing LIS to the communities. Unquestionably, information and communication technologies have penetrated our societies and became a way of life. In addition, there are unlimited benefits which can be derived from digital technologies, especially given the lack of physical libraries in rural areas.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the academic research is original and has not been published anywhere before.
Think manager – Think male or female: exploring the content of gendered stereotypes of the managerial role among undergraduate business students in Ireland over a 10-year period
Authors: Berkery Elaine , Ryan Nuala F.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Using Schein’s Descriptive Index (SDI), this paper aims to first examine gender role stereotypes and requisite managerial characteristics among Irish business students over a 10-year period. Then, the paper investigates whether there have been changes in gender role stereotypes during this period and subsequently unpack the reasons behind any changes recorded.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 1,124 students from the same business student population rated men, women and managers in general, using SDI. Data was collected first during the academic year 2008–2009 and again in 2018–2019 to determine stability or change in gender role stereotypes and requisite managerial characteristics. Intraclass correlation coefficients scores were computed to determine the relationship between gender and requisite managerial characteristics and identify differences and similarities between the two samples. To explore the content of gender stereotypes, an examination of the specific descriptive items was conducted by performing a factorial analysis using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test. Finally, the authors adapted the scales developed by Duehr and Bono (2006) to determine whether broad gender stereotypic characteristics with respect to communal and agentic, attributed to men, women and managers, differ by sample.

Findings

The overall findings indicate changes in the extent of gender role stereotyping of the managerial role among the male cohorts studied. The subsequent analysis of the descriptive items identified that the change among the male cohort is due to the levels of agency they perceive women to now possess.

Research limitations/implications

The authors contribute to the literature on both gendered and managerial stereotypes by showing changes in the pro-male stereotype of the managerial role and contribute to the existing debate on a shift towards a more androgynous view of leadership.

Practical implications

These findings help understand the content of gender role stereotypes that recent graduates bring with them to their first job post-graduation. The observed changes in the level of agency ascribed to women by their male counterparts could prove to be an important step forward for women’s advancement to managerial positions.

Originality/value

The findings indicate that both male and female cohorts in Sample 2 perceived men and women in general to possess the same levels of communal and agentic traits as their managerial counterparts.
To continue or not to continue? Examining the antecedents of MOOCs continuance intention through the lens of the stimulus-organism-response model
Authors: Cheng Yung-Ming
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to propose a research model based on the stimulus-organism-response (S-O-R) model to test whether network externality, gamification and media richness as environmental feature antecedents to learners' learning engagement (LE) can affect their continuance intention of massive open online courses (MOOCs).

Design/methodology/approach

Sample data for this study were collected from learners who had experience in taking the gamified MOOCs provided by the MOOC platform launched by a well-known university in Taiwan, and 315 usable questionnaires were analyzed using structural equation modeling in this study.

Findings

This study verified that learners' perceived network externality, gamification and media richness in MOOCs positively influenced their behavioral LE, emotional LE and social LE elicited by MOOCs, which collectively caused their continuance intention of MOOCs. The results support all proposed hypotheses, and the research model accounts for 75.6% of the variance in learners' continuance intention of MOOCs.

Originality/value

This study uses the S-O-R model as a theoretical groundwork to construct learners' continuance intention of MOOCs as a series of the internal process, which is influenced by network externality, gamification and media richness. Noteworthily, three psychological constructs, behavioral LE, emotional LE and social LE, are employed to represent learners' organisms of MOOCs usage. To date, the concepts of network externality, gamification and media richness are rarely together adopted as environmental stimuli, and psychological constructs as organisms have received lesser attention in prior MOOCs studies using the S-O-R model. Hence, this study's contribution on the application of capturing psychological constructs for completely expounding three types of environmental features as antecedents to learners' continuance intention of MOOCs is well documented.
Barriers to social impact bond implementation: a review of evidence from the UK and US
Authors: Andersen Mikkel Munksgaard
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study investigates barriers to social impact bond (SIB) implementation through a review of academic and gray literature. A SIB is a type of public policy instrument that leverages payment for performance (P4P), contracting together with private investments in the delivery of welfare programs. Outcome-based contracts, such as SIBs, are gaining attraction for public service providers in developed countries, but research regarding their implementation remains underexplored both empirically and theoretically.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review is conducted in which two types of documents are included: (1) empirical research papers and (2) evaluations of completed SIB projects. In total, 43 documents have been investigated. The study engages in a comparative design where insights across sectors (healthcare, social care and employment/education), are leveraged. The insights rest on evidence from the UK and US.

Findings

The investigation reveals five types of barriers to SIB implementation related to: (1) the SIB model, (2) organizational competencies, (3) data infrastructure, (4) stakeholder engagement and (5) the institutional context. The study discusses ways of managing these barriers and develops a conceptual framework for empirically investigating SIB implementation.

Originality/value

This study is the first academic paper to systematically assess insights regarding the implementation of SIBs. Also, the article proposes a conceptual framework for investigating SIB implementation.
Exploring channel switching in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic: Are shoppers all driven by the same motivations?
Authors: De Canio Francesca , Fuentes-Blasco Maria , Martinelli Elisa
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The pandemic impacted consumers' shopping processes, leading them to approach the online channel for grocery shopping for the first time. The paper contributes to the retailing literature by identifying different grocery shopper segments willing to switch online moved by heterogeneous motivations. Integrating the technology acceptance model 2 (TAM-2) and the protection motivation theory (PMT), this study identifies technology-related and Covid-related motivations jointly impacting channel switching.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixture regression model was estimated on the 370 valid questionnaires, filled out by Italian shoppers, delivering four internally consistent segments.

Findings

The results reveal the existence of four segments willing to switch towards the online channel for grocery shopping in the aftermath of the pandemic. Utilitarian shoppers would switch online as they consider the online channel useful and easy to use. Responsive shoppers will prefer the online channel driven by the fear of being infected in-store. Novel enthusiasts show interest in the online channel to not catch the virus and cope with emotional fear, although they consider online shopping as an enjoyable and useful activity as well. Smart shoppers consider online shopping as an easy-to-use alternative for their grocery purchases.

Originality/value

This paper identifies technology-related and Covid-related motivations jointly impacting shoppers' channel switching to online and presents a novel method – i.e. mixture regression – allowing for the identification of shopper segments motivated by different reasons, both emotional and utilitarian, to switch towards the online channel for their grocery shopping. Among other motivations, the fear of Covid-19 is identified as a relevant motivation to switch to online.
The implications of the COVID-19 pandemic for employment and government accountability: evidence from an emerging market
Authors: Diab Ahmed
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study analyses the socioeconomic impact of COVID-19 on government accountability regarding the employment of both national and migrant workforces by bringing evidence from an emerging market. In doing so, this study addresses if/how the government discharged its accountability to the public during this recent global health crisis, which started in late 2019, with its effects still being felt today.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on a close reading of the relevant news media (local and international), published research and official reports, as well as ten conversations with business managers to analyse the socioeconomic impact of COVID-19 on government accountability in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). This study draws on insights from public choice theory in trying to understand why some governments take an economic perspective while exercising accountability to their population during the pandemic.

Findings

It was found that COVID-19 led the government to pursue plans for the localization of the professions and increase employment rates among nationals vs. foreigners or migrant workers. The crisis was exploited by the government to achieve macro socio-political and economic goals, demonstrating its accountability to citizens, rather than foreign workers. This shift shows that difficult and exceptional circumstances can present opportunities for policymakers in emerging markets to achieve national policy and political aims.

Originality/value

This study enhances the author’s understanding of accountability during crises (i.e. crises-induced accountability) in emerging markets. The analyses presented enrich the crisis management literature by highlighting the implicit actions of national leaders that affect the lives and well-being of their constituents, especially vulnerable groups.
Leadership and power dynamics in crisis management: implication for brain-drain behaviour – Singaporean government experience during Covid-19
Authors: Akinwale Olusegun Emmanuel , Onokala Uche C. , Akinwale Olayombo Elizabeth
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study explored how the Singaporean government responded to the Covid-19 pandemic crisis from early January 2020 to the end of May of the same year. It evaluated the capability of Singapore's leadership management in a crisis during the peak and ravaging period of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilised a systematic design analysis approach, analysing Singaporean cases on the Covid-19 crisis using a systematic and narrative approach to underscore the country's response to the pandemic attack from January 2020 to May 2020.

Findings

Against the backdrop of Singapore's peculiar political system of government dominated by the ruling People's Action Party (PAP) and culture of bureaucracy, the government has increasingly executed several control measures, including strict travel bans, contact tracing, the circuit breaker–lockdown, mask-wearing, social distancing orders as well as financial support to businesses and employees from top to the bottom in the country. However, the treatment and health issues of the migrant workers in the dormitories continue to be the major concern among academics and scholars. At the same time, policy inadequacies truncate the excellent measure of Singapore's response to Covid-19. The case point review concluded that the mortality rate in Singapore remains low compared to other nations of the world. Singapore's case points unveil fundamental learning that an excellent leadership-driven harmonised strategic model is essential for crisis management in any society. The finding of the analysis demonstrated that Singapore adopted a contingency and value-based leadership model to advance good governance and tackle the spread of the deadly coronavirus in its country.

Originality/value

The study has demonstrated a profound analysis that has not been conducted hitherto. Investigation of the Singapore case point is not a popular analysis among Nigerian scholars. Therefore, from Nigeria's perspective, the study has showcased the good and the wrong sides of a coin in Singapore's leadership and power dynamic in crisis management.
Predictors of strategic procurement performance metrics adoption in county governments: empirical evidence from Kakamega county government, Kenya
Authors: Odongo Kennedy Otemba , Kazungu Isaac
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Amidst the scarcity of resources, it is undisputable that an effective public procurement performance measurement system (PMS) is required particularly in county governments, especially for Kenya to realize its ambitions in devolved governance system. County governments cannot be effectively evaluated on their performance if the long-term, strategic impact of public procurement processes and projects is not captured. Arising from this backdrop, this study aims to determine the predictors of strategic procurement performance metrics (SPPM) adoption in public procurement PMS of county governments.

Design/methodology/approach

Anchored on institutional theory and public sector scorecard model, a survey research design was adopted where data were collected through census from 115 respondents working in procurement, finance and stores department of Kakamega county government. Data were collected using questionnaire (75.56% response rate) and key informant interviews, and analyzed by using multiple regression model and ordinal logistic regression models.

Findings

Multiple regression model and ordinal logistics regression revealed that national government support negatively and significantly, and regulatory framework positively and significantly affects the adoption of SPPM.

Practical implications

There is need for formal mechanism that will enable the national government in partnership with the council of governors to be proactively involved in developing procurement performance measurement capacity of county governments. This study’s findings also provide suggestions for a working regulatory framework required for the adoption of SPPM by county governments.

Originality/value

This work adds value to the prevailing body of knowledge on public procurement PMS in the public sector.