bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Explaining the primate extinction crisis: predictors of extinction risk and active threats
Authors: Creighton Maria J. A. , Nunn Charles L.
Published: September 2023

Explaining why some species are disproportionately impacted by the extinction crisis is of critical importance for conservation biology as a science and for proactively protecting species that are likely to become threatened in the future. Using the most current data on threat status, population trends, and threat types for 446 primate species, we advance previous research on the determinants of extinction risk by including a wider array of phenotypic traits as predictors, filling gaps in these trait data using multiple imputation, and investigating the mechanisms that connect organismal traits to extinction risk. Our Bayesian phylogenetically controlled analyses reveal that insular species exhibit higher threat status, while those that are more omnivorous and live in larger groups have lower threat status. The same traits are not linked to risk when repeating our analyses with older IUCN data, which may suggest that the traits influencing species risk are changing as anthropogenic effects continue to transform natural landscapes. We also show that non-insular, larger-bodied, and arboreal species are more susceptible to key threats responsible for primate population declines. Collectively, these results provide new insights to the determinants of primate extinction and identify the mechanisms (i.e. threats) that link traits to extinction risk.
Factors associated with cutaneous colonization of Mucormycetes in diabetic and non-diabetic individuals
Authors: Saud Bhuvan , Chand Kajal , Amatya Neetu , Paudel Govinda , Adhikari Saroj , Shrestha Vikram
Published: September 2023

This study was conducted to assess factors associated with cutaneous colonization of Mucormycetes in diabetic and non-diabetic individuals. A total of 800 swab samples from 200 participants including 100 diabetics and 100 non-diabetics were collected from four different body sites: (1) the forehead, (2) nasal cavity, (3) hands and (4) feet. Fungal isolation, fungal identification and antibiotic sensitivity tests were performed on the isolates. Overall, 12.0 % of the participants showed Mucormycetes colonization while the commonest fungal isolates were Mucor Species (Spp.). followed by Rhizopus spp. Diabetics had a 11 times higher odds of colonization compared to non-diabetics. The majority of the isolates were resistant to itraconazole; however, all isolates were sensitive to amphotericin B. A significant association was observed between profession and Mucormycetes (P=0.03) with significantly higher colonization in retired people compared to business people. Higher odds of colonization were demonstrated among older ages, lower class status and individuals with prolonged contact time with soil.
Mutational analysis reveals a novel role for hepatitis C virus NS5A domain I in cyclophilin-dependent genome replication
Authors: Chen Shucheng , Harris Mark
Published: September 2023

The hepatitis C virus (HCV) NS5A protein is comprised of three domains (D1–3). Previously, we observed that two alanine substitutions in D1 (V67A, P145A) abrogated replication of a genotype 2a isolate (JFH-1) sub-genomic replicon (SGR) in Huh7 cells, but this phenotype was partially restored in Huh7.5 cells. Here we demonstrate that five additional residues, surface-exposed and proximal to V67 or P145, exhibited the same phenotype. In contrast, the analogous mutants in a genotype 3a isolate (DBN3a) SGR exhibited different phenotypes in each cell line, consistent with fundamental differences in the functions of genotypes 2 and 3 NS5A. The difference between Huh7 and Huh7.5 cells was reminiscent of the observation that cyclophilin inhibitors are more potent against HCV replication in the former and suggested a role for D1 in cyclophilin dependence. Consistent with this, all JFH-1 and DBN3a mutants exhibited increased sensitivity to cyclosporin A treatment compared to wild-type. Silencing of cyclophilin A (CypA) in Huh7 cells inhibited replication of both JFH-1 and DBN3a. However, in Huh7.5 cells CypA silencing did not inhibit JFH-1 wild-type, but abrogated replication of all the JFH-1 mutants, and both DBN3a wild-type and all mutants. CypB silencing in Huh7 cells had no effect on DBN3a, but abrogated replication of JFH-1. CypB silencing in Huh7.5 cells had no effect on either SGR. Lastly, we confirmed that JFH-1 NS5A D1 interacted with CypA in vitro. These data demonstrate both a direct involvement of NS5A D1 in cyclophilin-dependent genome replication and functional differences between genotype 2 and 3 NS5A.
IS1-related large-scale deletion of chromosomal regions harbouring the oxygen-insensitive nitroreductase gene nfsB causes nitrofurantoin heteroresistance in Escherichia coli
Authors: Wan Yu , Sabnis Akshay , Mumin Zaynab , Potterill Isabelle , Jauneikaite Elita , Brown Colin S. , Ellington Matthew J. , Edwards Andrew , Sriskandan Shiranee
Published: September 2023

Nitrofurantoin is a broad-spectrum first-line antimicrobial used for managing uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI). Loss-of-function mutations in chromosomal genes nfsA, nfsB and ribE of

Escherichia coli

are known to reduce nitrofurantoin susceptibility. Here, we report the discovery of nitrofurantoin heteroresistance in

E. coli

clinical isolates and a novel genetic mechanism associated with this phenomenon. Subpopulations with lower nitrofurantoin susceptibility than major populations (hereafter, nitrofurantoin-resistant subpopulations) in two

E. coli

blood isolates (previously whole-genome sequenced) were identified using population analysis profiling. Each isolate was known to have a loss-of-function mutation in nfsA. From each isolate, four nitrofurantoin-resistant isolates were derived at a nitrofurantoin concentration of 32 mg l−1, and a comparator isolate was obtained without any nitrofurantoin exposure. Genomes of derived isolates were sequenced on Illumina and Nanopore MinION systems. Genetic variation between isolates was determined based on genome assemblies and read mapping. Nitrofurantoin minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of both blood isolates were 64 mg l−1, with MICs of major nitrofurantoin-susceptible populations varying from 4 to 8 mg l−1. Two to 99 c.f.u. per million demonstrated growth at the nitrofurantoin concentration of 32 mg l−1, which is distinct from that of a homogeneously susceptible or resistant isolate. Derived nitrofurantoin-resistant isolates had 11–66 kb deletions in chromosomal regions harbouring nfsB, and all deletions were immediately adjacent to IS1-family insertion sequences. Our findings demonstrate that the IS1-associated large-scale genetic deletion is a hitherto unrecognized mechanism of nitrofurantoin heteroresistance and could compromise UTI management. Further, frequencies of resistant subpopulations from nitrofurantoin-heteroresistant isolates may challenge conventional nitrofurantoin susceptibility testing in clinical settings.
Response of siliceous marine organisms to the Permian-Triassic climate crisis based on new findings from central Spitsbergen, Svalbard
Authors: Foster W.J. , Asatryan G. , Rauzi S. , Botting J. , Buchwald S. , Lazarus D. , Isson T. , Renaudie J. , Kiessling W.
Published: September 2023

Siliceous marine ecosystems play a critical role on the Earth’s climate system through its influence on organic carbon burial and rates of marine authigenic clay formation (i.e. reverse weathering). The ecological demise of silicifying organisms associated with the Permian-Triassic mass extinction is postulated to have elevated rates of marine authigenic clay formation, resulting in a prolonged greenhouse climate during the Early Triassic. Yet, our understanding of the response of siliceous marine organisms during this critical interval is poor. Whilst radiolarians experienced the strongest diversity loss in their evolutionary history and perhaps also the greatest population decline of silica-secreting organisms during this event, only a small number of Griesbachian (post-extinction) localities that record siliceous organisms are known. Here, we report newly discovered latest Changhsingian to early Griesbachian (Clarkina meishanensis-Hindeodus parvusZone) radiolarians and siliceous sponge spicules from Svalbard. This fauna documents the survival of a low-diversity radiolarian assemblage alongside stem-group hexactinellid sponges making this the first described account of post-extinction silica-secreting organisms from the Permian/Triassic boundary in a shallow marine shelf environment and a mid-northern palaeolatitudinal setting. Our findings indicate that latitudinal diversity gradients for silica-secreting organisms following the mass extinction were significantly altered, and that silica productivity was restricted to high latitude and deep water thermal refugia. This result has potential to further shape our understanding of changes to marine porewater and seawater dissolved silica levels and in turn rates of reverse weathering, with implications for our understanding of carbon cycle dynamics during this interval. This also suggests that the export of organic carbon to the deep ocean was not as severely impacted at non-equatorial latitudes.

Key Points

We document the first occurrence of siliceous sponge spicules and radiolarians (biogenic silica) from a mid-northern paleolatitude following the mass extinction event

Holdover radiolarian species show poleward range shifts

The ecological composition and the restriction to shallow water oxygenated facies suggests a shallow mid-latitude refuge for siliceous marine organisms

This result has potential to further shape our understanding of changes to marine dissolved silica levels and in turn rates of reverse weathering, with implications for our understanding of Permian-Triassic carbon cycle dynamics.
Estimation of inbreeding and kinship coefficients via latent identity-by-descent states
Authors: Guan Yongtao , Levy Daniel
Published: September 2023

Estimating the individual inbreeding coefficient and pairwise kinship is an important problem in human genetics (e.g., in disease mapping) and in animal and plant genetics (e.g., inbreeding design). Existing methods such as sample correlation-based genetic relationship matrix, KING, and UKin are either biased, or not able to estimate inbreeding coefficients, or produce a large proportion of negative estimates that are difficult to interpret. This limitation of existing methods is partly due to failure to explicitly model inbreeding. Since all humans are inbred to various degrees by virtue of shared ancestries, it is prudent to account for inbreeding when inferring kinship between individuals. We present “Kindred”, an approach that estimates inbreeding and kinship by modeling latent identity-by-descent states that accounts for all possible allele sharing – including inbreeding – between two individuals. Through simulation, we demonstrate the high accuracy and, more importantly, non-negativity of kinship estimates by Kindred. By selecting a subset of SNPs that are similar in allele frequencies across different populations, Kindred can accurately estimate kinship between admixed samples. Finally, we demonstrate that the realized kinship matrix estimated by Kindred is effective in reducing genomic control values via linear mixed model in genome-wide association studies, and it also produces sensible heritability estimates. Kindred is freely available athttp://www.haplotype.org.
Individual and spatial determinants of mortality during the Covid-19 pandemic: The case of Belgium in 2020
Authors: Bourguignon Mélanie , Bertrand Aurélie , Damiens Joan , Doignon Yoann , Eggerickx Thierry , Plavsic Audrey , Sanderson Jean-Paul
Published: September 2023

Context

The year 2020 was marked by the Covid-19 pandemic. In Belgium, it led to a doubling in deaths, mainly grouped into two periods. This article aims to compare the relative importance of predictors and individual and spatial determinants of mortality during these two waves to an equivalent non-pandemic period and to identify whether and to what extent the pandemic has altered the sociodemographic patterns of conventional mortality.

Methods

The analyses relate to all-cause mortality during the two waves of Covid-19 and their equivalent in 2019. They are based on matching individual and exhaustive data from the Belgian National Register with tax and population census data. A multi-level approach was adopted combining individual and spatial determinants.

Results

Mortality patterns during the pandemic are very similar to those observed outside the pandemic. As in 2019, age, sex, and household composition significantly determine the individual risk of dying, with a higher risk of death among the oldest people, men, and residents of collective households. However, their risk of death increases during the Covid period, especially in the 65–79 age group. Spatial information is no more significant in 2020 than in 2019. However, a higher risk of death is observed when the local excess mortality index or the proportions of isolated or disadvantaged people increase.

Conclusions

While the Covid pandemic did not fundamentally alter conventional mortality patterns, it did amplify some of the pre-existing differences in mortality.
Correlation of myeloid-derived suppressor cell expansion with upregulated transposable elements in severe COVID-19 unveiled in single-cell RNA sequencing reanalysis
Authors: Farahmandnejad Mitra , Mosaddeghi Pouria , Dorvash Mohammadreza , Sakhteman Amirhossein , Faridi Pouya , Negahdaripour Manica
Published: September 2023

Some studies investigated the potential role of transposable elements (TEs) in COVID-19 pathogenesis and complications. However, to the best of our knowledge, there is no study to examine the possible association of TEs expression in cell functions and its potential role in COVID-19 immune response at the single-cell level.

In this study, we reanalyzed single-cell RNA seq data of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples obtained from six severe COVID-19 patients and three healthy donors to assess the probable correlation of TE expression with the immune responses induced by the SARS-CoV-2 virus in COVID-19 patients.

Our findings indicated that the expansion of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) may be a characteristic feature of COVID-19. Additionally, a significant increase in TEs expression in MDSCs was observed. This upregulation of TEs in COVID-19 may be linked to the adaptability of these cells in response to their microenvironments. Furthermore, it appears that the identification of overexpressed TEs by Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) in MDSCs may enhance the suppressive capacity of these cells. Thus, this study emphasizes the crucial role of TEs in the functionality of MDSCs during COVID-19.
Axon guidance during CNS regeneration is required for specific brain innervation
Authors: Delpech Céline , Schaeffer Julia , Vilallongue Noemie , Benadjal Amin , Blot Beatrice , Excoffier Blandine , Plissonnier Elise , Albert Floriane , Paccard Antoine , Zagar Yvrick , Castellani Valérie , Belin Stephane , Chédotal Alain , Nawabi Homaira
Published: September 2023

Reconstruction of functional neuronal circuits in the mature brain remains a big challenge in the field of central nervous system (CNS) repair. Despite achievement of robust, long-distance regeneration through modulation of specific neuronal intrinsic growth properties, functional recovery is still limited due to major guidance defects of regenerating axons. Using co-activation of mTOR, JAK/STAT and c-myc pathways in retinal ganglion cells (RGC), we highlight that regenerating axons avoid the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) due to repulsive mechanisms. We show that Slit/Robo guidance signaling is responsible for this reinnervation failure. In vivo suppression of this repulsive signaling allows regenerating axons to enter the SCN. The newly formed circuit is associated with functional behavioral recovery. Our results provide evidence that axon guidance mechanisms are required in the context of mature neuronal circuit repair.
Neutralization Escape by SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Subvariant BA.2.86
Authors: Lasrado Ninaad , Collier Ai-ris Y. , Hachmann Nicole P. , Miller Jessica , Rowe Marjorie , Schonberg Eleanor D. , Rodrigues Stefanie L. , LaPiana Austin , Patio Robert C. , Anand Trisha , Fisher Jana , Mazurek Camille , Guan Ruoran , Wagh Kshitij , Theiler James , Korber Bette , Barouch Dan H.
Published: September 2023

The continued evolution of SARS-CoV-2 may lead to evasion of vaccine immunity and natural immunity. A highly mutated Omicron variant BA.2.86 has recently been identified with over 30 amino acid changes in Spike compared with BA.2 and XBB.1.5. As of September 4, 2023, BA.2.86 has been identified in 37 sequences from 10 countries, which is likely an underestimate due to limited surveillance. The ability of BA.2.86 to evade NAbs compared with other currently circulating Omicron variants remains unknown. Our data show that NAb responses to BA.2.86 were lower than to BA.2 but were comparable or slightly higher than to the current circulating recombinant variants XBB.1.5, XBB.1.16, EG.5, EG.5.1, and FL.1.5.1.
Hopanoid lipids promote soybean-Bradyrhizobiumsymbiosis
Authors: Pan Huiqiao , Shim Ashley , Lubin Matthew B. , Belin Brittany J.
Published: September 2023

The symbioses between leguminous plants and nitrogen-fixing bacteria known as rhizobia are well known for promoting plant growth and sustainably increasing soil nitrogen. Recent evidence indicates that hopanoids, a family of steroid-like lipids, promoteBradyrhizobiumsymbioses with tropical legumes. To characterize hopanoids inBradyrhizobiumsymbiosis with soybean, the most economically significantBradyrhizobiumhost, we validated a recently published cumate-inducible hopanoid mutant ofBradyrhizobium diazoefficiensUSDA110, Pcu-shc::Δshc. GC-MS analysis showed that this strain does not produce hopanoids without cumate induction, and under this condition, is impaired in growth in rich medium and under osmotic, temperature, and pH stress.In planta, Pcu-shc::Δshcis an inefficient soybean symbiont with significantly lower rates of nitrogen fixation and low survival within host tissue. RNA-seq revealed that hopanoid loss reduces expression of flagellar motility and chemotaxis-related genes, further confirmed by swim plate assays, and enhances expression of genes related to nitrogen metabolism and protein secretion. These results suggest that hopanoids provide a significant fitness advantage toB. diazoefficiensin legume hosts and provide a foundation for future mechanistic studies of hopanoid function in protein secretion and motility.

IMPORTANCE

A major problem for global sustainability is feeding our exponentially growing human population while available arable land is decreasing, especially in areas with the greatest population growth. Harnessing the power of plant-beneficial microbes has gained attention as a potential solution, including the increasing our reliance on the symbioses of leguminous plants and nitrogen-fixing rhizobia. This study examines the role of hopanoid lipids in the symbiosis betweenBradyrhizobium diazoefficiensUSDA110, an important commercial inoculant strain, and its economically important host soybean. Our research extends our knowledge of the functions of bacterial lipids in symbiosis to an agricultural context, which may one day help improve the practical applications of plant-beneficial microbes in agriculture.
Genomics-based timely detection of Dengue Virus type I genotypes I and V in Uruguay
Authors: Morel Noelia , Giovanetti Marta , Fonseca Vagner , Burgueño Analía , Lima Mauricio , Castro Emerson , R. Guimarães Natália , Iani Felipe C. M. , Bormida Victoria , Cortinas Maria Noel , Ramas Viviana , Coppola Leticia , Bento Ana I. , Rosewell Alexander , Franco Leticia , Rico Jairo Mendez , Lourenço José , Alcantara Luiz Carlos Junior , Chiparelli Hector
Published: September 2023

We report the first whole-genome sequences of Dengue Virus type I genotypes I and V from Uruguay, including the first cases ever reported in the country. Through timely genomic analysis, identification of these genotypes was possible, aiding in timely public health responses and intervention strategies to mitigate the impact of dengue outbreaks.

Article Summary Line

Genomic Analysis for identification of Dengue virus serotype 1 genotypes I and V in Uruguay: an early detection approach
Vinculin is Essential For Sustaining Normal Levels of Endogenous Force Transmission at Cell-Cell Contacts
Authors: Mezher Mazen , Dumbali Sandeep , Fenn Ian , Lamb Carter , Miller Conrad , Cabe Jolene I. , Bejar-Padilla Vidal , Conway Daniel , Maruthamuthu Venkat
Published: September 2023

Transmission of cell-generated (i.e., endogenous) tension at cell-cell contacts is crucial for tissue shape changes during morphogenesis and adult tissue repair in tissues like epithelia. E-cadherin-based adhesions at cell-cell contacts are the primary means by which endogenous tension is transmitted between cells. The E-cadherin-β-catenin-α-catenin complex mechanically couples to the actin cytoskeleton (and thereby the contractile machinery of the cell) both directly and indirectly. However, the key adhesion constituents required for substantial endogenous force transmission at these adhesions in cell-cell contacts are unclear. Due to the role of α-catenin as a mechanotransducer that recruits vinculin at cell-cell contacts, we expected α-catenin to be essential for the high levels of force transmission normally sustained. Instead, using the traction force imbalance method to determine the inter-cellular force at a single cell-cell contact between cell pairs, we found that it is vinculin that is essential for high endogenous force transmission. Our results constrain the potential mechanical pathways of force transmission at cell-cell contacts and suggest that vinculin can transmit forces at E-cadherin adhesions independent of α-catenin, possibly through β-catenin. Furthermore, we tested the ability of cell-cell contacts to withstand external stretch and found that vinculin is essential to maintain cell-cell contact stability under external forces as well.
The future of work: A hybrid work model in a public sector organisation
Authors: Malila Cecilia , Daya Preeya , Bick Geoff
Published: September 2023

Subject area of the teaching case:

This teaching case covers aspects of leadership development, strategy, change management, organisational behaviour, and people management. The case explores the following themes:

Workplace transformation and culture: the challenges and opportunities of remote/hybrid work in large government enterprises and maintaining the culture when moving remote

Leadership and change: the different perspectives that a leader can take into consideration when leading the business during turbulent and uncertain times and managing the change process in large organisations

Strategic decision-making: the application of analytical skills by senior management when making strategic decisions in a business

Student level:

The primary audience for this teaching case is management education programmes including: Master of Business Administration (MBA), Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip), specialist Masters in Management, and certain Executive Education programmes.

Brief overview of the teaching case:

This case deals with a public-sector entity that collects taxation revenue for the South African government. In 2020, the operations of this public entity are severely affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. The mandatory shift of the workforce from in-office to a remote work-from-home set-up, results in the entity switching to a hybrid work model in order to achieve its goals as an essential service. Protagonist Dr Zanele Twazi, executive head of the public entity's research department, is tasked by the commissioner to conduct a review on the hybrid work model. As the commissioner is also in the process of reviving the organisational culture to regain public trust following multiple corruption scandals, the pandemic adds to this pressure. Dr Twazi must share employee feedback on the remote work option. Meanwhile, the leadership team has to decide if the work model will serve this public entity in achieving its strategy, and from an organisational culture viewpoint, if it is the best fit for the future.

Expected learning outcomes:

The key learnings from this case include the following:

Organisational work model: A suitable work model is dependent on the organisational mandate as well as its culture.

Culture and organisational goals: An organisational work model additionally impacts the future sustainability of the organisation and its ability to achieve its short- and long-term goals.

Change management framework: For teams to effectively adapt to a hybrid work model, managers have to be empowered to lead and be able to facilitate the change.
Impact of blockchain on the green innovation performance of enterprises under the policy uncertainty
Authors: Wang Xuezhu , Zhang Runze , Gong Zheng , Chen Xi
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study aims to empirically examine how blockchain, one of the emerging Industry 4.0 technologies, can combat climate change by improving their green innovation performance, particularly under conditions of policy uncertainty.

Design/methodology/approach

This study utilizes the difference-in-difference-in-difference (DDD) method to explore the effect of blockchain on enterprises' green innovation performance. The analysis is based on data from Chinese-listed enterprises spanning the period from 2013 to 2021.

Findings

First, the adoption of blockchain in enterprises registered in areas designated as low-carbon pilot cities can significantly improve their green innovation performance. Second, the enhancement of green innovation efficiency emerges as the primary driving force behind the adoption of blockchain, thereby leading to improved green innovation performance. Lastly, it is observed that blockchain adoption has a greater positive impact on improving green efficiency in private enterprises compared to state-owned enterprises in China.

Practical implications

For managers, the findings can provide valuable insights to help them better prepare for the challenges and opportunities presented by the era of Industry 4.0. For policymakers, this study offers valuable insights into the interaction between new technologies in Industry 4.0 and the performance of green innovation, thereby aiding in the formulation of effective policies.

Originality/value

This study contributes to bridging the existing gap between the adoption of new technologies, such as blockchain, and their potential impact on climate change. Moreover, this research enriches practitioners' understanding of how new technologies in the era of Industry 4.0 can be applied to address significant challenges like climate change.
Studying the impact of e-marketing by universities on students' loyalty with the mediation of intention to get enrollment and moderation of eWOM
Authors: Wahab Abdul , Aqif Tanzeela , Bint-e-shehzad Zara
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study aims to recognize the significance of branding in the academic field to enhance students' loyalty. The research has examined the effect of e-word of mouth as a moderator on loyalty and exploring the intention to get enrollment variable as a mediator in the context of higher education institutes. In order to establish theoretical foundation of study, theory of planned behavior and expectancy-value theory have been used to hypothesize relations.

Design/methodology/approach

Quantitative research methodology has been used in this research while structured questionnaires have been used to collect the sample data which is comprised of 201 students. Population for this study included students of universities in Pakistan from both private and public sector.

Findings

It has been found that e-marketing has a positive relationship with student loyalty. Further, eWOM acts as a moderator between e-marketing and student loyalty. The study also found that intention to get enrollment mediates the relationship between e-marketing and student loyalty.

Practical implications

This study is a contribution to higher education literature and provides implications that how effectively HEIs should employ e-marketing techniques that not only attract new students to get enrolled but also help to develop long-term relations leading toward student loyalty.

Originality/value

The study has been unique as it has examined the increasing role of e-marketing on students' loyalty. The study is the first in nature which has explored how universities can use e-marketing to enhance students' loyalty and how this relationship can be enhanced through the use of electronic word of mouth (eWOM).
I don’t like it but I use it: how online physician reviews affect readers’ trust
Authors: Azimi Shabnam , Ansari Sina
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Recent research suggests that more than two-thirds of people use online reviews to find a new primary care physician (PCP). However, it is unclear what role review content plays when a patient uses online reviews to decide about a new PCP. This paper aims to understand how a review's content, related to competence (communication and technical skills) and benevolence (fidelity and fairness), impacts patients’ trusting intentions to select a PCP. The authors build the model around information diagnosticity, construal level theory and valence asymmetries and use review helpfulness as a mediator and review valence as a moderator in this process.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use two experimental studies to test their hypotheses and collect data through prolific.

Findings

The authors find that people have a harder time making inferences about the technical and communication skills of a PCP. Reviews about fidelity are perceived as more helpful and influential in building trust than reviews about fairness. Overall, reviews about the communication skills of a PCP have stronger effects on trusting intentions than other types of reviews. The authors also find that positive reviews are perceived as more helpful for the readers than negative reviews, but negative reviews have a stronger impact on patients' trust intentions than positive ones.

Originality/value

The authors identify how online reviews about a PCP’s competency and benevolence affect patients’ trusting intentions to choose the PCP. The implication of findings of this study for primary medical practice and physician review websites is discussed.
National cultures and the asset growth effect
Authors: Chou Robin K. , Ko Kuan-Cheng , Rhee S. Ghon
Published: September 2023

National cultures significantly explain cross-country differences in the relation between asset growth and stock returns. Motivated by the notion that managers in individualistic and low uncertainty-avoiding cultures have a higher tendency to overinvest, this study aims to show that the negative relation between asset growth and stock returns is stronger in countries with such cultural features. Once the researchers control for cultural dimensions, proxies associated with the q-theory, limits-to-arbitrage, corporate governance, investor protection and accounting quality provide no incremental power for the relation between asset growth and stock returns across countries. Evidence of this study highlights the importance of the overinvestment hypothesis in explaining the asset growth anomaly around the world.
Does the absence of share deals distort commercial real estate indicators?
Authors: Ishaak Farley , van Schie Ron , de Haan Jan , Remøy Hilde
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Commercial real estate (CRE) indicators typically include asset deals and exclude share deals. This study aims to explore the phenomenon of real estate share deals and assess whether omitting these transactions results in indicators that do not accurately reflect the market.

Design/methodology/approach

Various registers in the Netherlands were used to estimate transaction volumes, total values and price developments of both share and asset deals. Share deals are company transfers and its transactions cover more than real estate. To estimate the contribution of real estate in share deals, valuations were used.

Findings

In the Netherlands, share deals are most prominent for rental dwellings. Adding share deals to volume and value indicators seems required. In price development estimates, significant differences were found for dwellings between share and asset deals. Price indices should, therefore, also include share deals, but in practice this is difficult and has little impact on the outcomes due to the low weight of share deals.

Research limitations/implications

Legislation has a major impact on choosing a share or asset deal. The significance of share deals is expected to vary amongst countries. Performing similar research in other countries will contribute in harmonising real estate indicators.

Practical implications

Statistical agencies face many challenges in the construction of CRE indicators. This study provides statisticians knowledge that can be used to evaluate possible data gaps.

Originality/value

This is the first study to estimate indicators of real estate share deals and compare these to asset deal indicators.
The applicability of Islamic crowdfunding as an alternative funding for micro-entrepreneurs in Malaysia
Authors: Ishak Muhammad Shahrul Ifwat , Mohammad Nasir Nur Syahirah
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to analyse potential models of Islamic crowdfunding as an alternative financing option for micro-entrepreneurs in Malaysia. While crowdfunding has gained traction as an alternative funding source for businesses, it is unclear how far this concept can benefit a group of micro-entrepreneurs in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a qualitative research approach by using data collected through semi-structured interviews with several experts and practitioners in crowdfunding, Shariah and entrepreneurship. Prior to discussing the facets of the findings, the data were analysed based on a thematic approach.

Findings

The findings reveal that while previous works of related literature suggest crowdfunding as a viable alternative financing option for entrepreneurs and their businesses, in reality, its practical implementation presents challenges. Numerous micro-entrepreneurs need more training in the areas of management and marketing. Such concerns raise questions about their ability to attract potential project backers. With the proper selection of Shariah contracts and several approaches to risk management, Islamic crowdfunding can potentially become an alternative funding source for microbusinesses.

Research limitations/implications

Given the exploratory nature of this study regarding the applicability of Islamic crowdfunding as an alternative fund for micro-entrepreneurs, its findings may not fully encompass Malaysia’s context because of the limited number of participants involved.

Practical implications

The findings of this study offer guidelines on how to implement Islamic crowdfunding for micro-entrepreneurs. Consequently, Islamic crowdfunding has the potential to alleviate the government’s burden of providing funds for micro-enterprises and enhance their skills and mentality to be more independent, creative and able to promote their products.

Social implications

While Islamic crowdfunding can be an alternative opportunity for business enterprises and community-based projects, it promotes the spirit of cooperation and collaboration within society.

Originality/value

Although Islamic crowdfunding is a topic that has been discussed previously, empirical investigations in this area remain scarce, mainly through qualitative approaches. Distinguishing from prior literature, this study analyses several potential models of Islamic crowdfunding from the perspectives of experts, practitioners and related agencies for micro-entrepreneurs. Moreover, this study bridges insights from related literature so that they offer practical applications to support micro-entrepreneurs in Malaysia.
The antecedents and outcome of foreign direct divestment for developing economies
Authors: Merza Ebrahim , Alhussainan Omar
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the drivers of foreign direct divestment (FDD), how it relates to foreign direct investment (FDI) flows and stocks and its implications for developing countries. While divestment occurs for various reasons, it can be explained by reversing the propositions implied by FDI theories.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors combine FDI data and FDI theories to provide theoretical explanations for FDD and what it means for developing countries. FDI stock and flow data are used to derive inferences on trends in FDD and examine the implications of FDI theories on FDD.

Findings

Changes in the modes of global production and the rise of COVID-19 have reinforced the trend of stagnant or diminishing FDI flows observed since the global financial crisis, with implications for FDD. The authors demonstrate how the various FDI theories can be used to explain FDD, except for the currency areas hypothesis. By reviewing the costs and benefits of FDI, it is concluded that shrinking FDI flows and stocks may not be as detrimental for developing economies as it is typically portrayed.

Originality/value

The paper uses two original approaches to measure and explain the motives for FDD. The first is a reassessment of FDI theories in a way that makes them valid theories for FDD. The second original approach is to interpret data on FDI flows and stocks to imply the trends governing FDD, which is useful, as data on foreign divestment are not available on a country or regional basis.
Industry 4.0 technologies integration with lean production tools: a review
Authors: Singh Hirendra , Singh Bhim
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Lean production has been proved to be a cost-effective and efficient means of production that reduces non-valve added activities. Industry 4.0 (I4.0) is a technology-driven platform that allows machines to interact with other systems through artificial intelligence, machine learning, industrial Internet of Things (IoT), etc. that improve the production system with flexibility, quality and customization throughout the whole value chain. New approaches to digitization of lean production have recently been emerged and they are transforming the industry and increasing productivity throughout the value chain. Through this article, an effort has been made to review the research published in this field.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper reviews the literature published in various journals, the databases Web of science (WoS), ScienceDirect, Scopus, Emerald etc. were referred with a focus on lean concepts and tools and I4.0 technologies; it has been noticed that the integration of the lean tools with I4.0 technologies is a very effective tool for the industry.

Findings

It has been found in the literature published earlier in various journals that lean manufacturing (LM) is commonly acknowledged and considered a best practice to improve the productivity. It is concerned with the tight integration of people into the industrial process through continuous improvement which leads to value addition throughout the whole value chain by eliminating non vale added activities. The findings show that organizations can improve their productivity and flexibility with speed and accuracy by integrating I4.0 technologies with LM, which is foremost need of any industry across the world.

Originality/value

This article accentuates the connections between the principles and tools developed under the umbrella of I4.0 and those developed by the LM techniques, with a specific emphasis on how some of the principles and tools of I4.0 improve the implementation of lean principles dependent on the competence levels of the technology. Very few articles have been published in this area, and this paper is an original piece of research covering a review of extant research published in various journals.
Parental financial socialization and life satisfaction of college students: mediation and moderation analyses
Authors: Mahapatra Mousumi Singha , Xiao Jing Jian , Mishra Ram Kumar , Meng Kexin
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine the association between parental financial socialization and life satisfaction and the mediating roles of desirable financial behavior in the association between parental financial socialization and life satisfaction of college students in India. Furthermore, this research also explores the moderating effects of parents’ socioeconomic characteristics (education, income and professions) in the association between parental financial socialization and desirable financial behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 1,161 college students was collected in India. Parental financial socialization is measured by direct parental teaching in this study. The first stage moderated mediation model is performed to examine the direct and indirect effects through financial behavior of parental financial on life satisfaction as well as the moderating role of parents’ socioeconomic characteristics.

Findings

The mediation analysis shows that parental direct teaching is positively associated with young adults’ financial behavior, which in turn contributes to their life satisfaction. Furthermore, this study also finds negative moderation effects of parental education on the association between parental direct teaching and children's financial behavior.

Originality/value

This study extends the knowledge of family financial socialization in the context of India. Moreover, it examines the mediation roles of desirable financial behavior in the association between parental direct teaching and children’s life satisfaction. Furthermore, this paper explores the potential influence of parents’ education, income and professions on children’s financial behavior and life satisfaction.
Microscale imaging sheds light on species‐specific strategies for photo‐regulation and photo‐acclimation of microphytobenthic diatoms
Authors: Jesus Bruno , Jauffrais Thierry , Trampe Erik , Méléder Vona , Ribeiro Lourenço , Bernhard Joan M. , Geslin Emmanuelle , Kühl Michael
Published: September 2023

Intertidal microphytobenthic (MPB) biofilms are key sites for coastal primary production, predominantly by pennate diatoms exhibiting photo‐regulation via non‐photochemical quenching (NPQ) and vertical migration. Movement is the main photo‐regulation mechanism of motile (epipelic) diatoms and because they can move from light, they show low‐light acclimation features such as low NPQ levels, as compared to non‐motile (epipsammic) forms. However, most comparisons of MPB species‐specific photo‐regulation have used low light acclimated monocultures, not mimicking environmental conditions. Here we used variable chlorophyll fluorescence imaging, fluorescent labelling in sediment cores and scanning electron microscopy to compare the movement and NPQ responses to light of four epipelic diatom species from a natural MPB biofilm. The diatoms exhibited different species‐specific photo‐regulation features and a large NPQ range, exceeding that reported for epipsammic diatoms. This could allow epipelic species to coexist in compacted light niches of MPB communities. We show that diatom cell orientation within MPB can be modulated by light, where diatoms oriented themselves more perpendicular to the sediment surface under high light vs. more parallel under low light, demonstrating behavioural, photo‐regulatory response by varying their light absorption cross‐section. This highlights the importance of considering species‐specific responses and understanding cell orientation and photo‐behaviour in MPB research.
The effects of economic status on metabolic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus at 10 metabolic management centers in China
Authors: Gu Liping , Ma Yuhang , Zheng Qidong , Gu Weiqiong , Ke Tingyu , Li Li , Zhao Dong , Dai Yuancheng , Dong Qijuan , Ji Bangqun , Xu Fengmei , Shi Juan , Peng Ying , Zhang Yifei , Shen Tingting , Du Rui , Yang Jiaying , Kang Mei , Peng Yongde , Wang Yufan , Wang Weiqing
Published: September 2023

Objective

This study investigated the association of economic status with metabolic index control in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients.

Methods

In total, 37 454 T2DM patients from 10 National Metabolic Management Centers in China were recruited and categorized into two groups: a high‐gross domestic product (GDP) group (n = 23 993) and a low‐GDP group (n = 13 461). Sociodemographic characteristics, medical histories, and lifestyle factors were recorded. Logistic regression and interaction analysis were performed to evaluate the association of economic status and healthy lifestyle with metabolic control.

Results

Compared to the low‐GDP group, there were fewer patients with glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels ≥7% in the high‐GDP group. Fewer patients with a high GDP had an abnormal metabolic state (HbA1c ≥ 7%, blood pressure [BP] ≥130/80 mm Hg, total cholesterol [TCH] ≥4.5 mmol/L or body mass index [BMI] ≥24 kg/m2). The risks of developing HbA1c ≥ 7% (odds ratios [OR] = 0.545 [95% CI: 0.515–0.577], p < .001), BP ≥ 130/80 mm Hg (OR = 0.808 [95% CI: 0.770–0.849], p < .001), BMI ≥ 24 kg/m2 (OR = 0.840 [95% CI: 0.799–0.884], p < .001), and an abnormal metabolic state (OR = 0.533 [95% CI: 0.444–0.636], p < .001) were significantly lower in the high‐GDP group even after adjustment for confounding factors. Younger participants; those with a family history of diabetes, normal weight, and a physical activity level up to standard; and those who did not drink alcohol in the high‐GDP group were predisposed to better glycemic levels.

Conclusions

T2DM patients in economically developed regions had better metabolic control, especially glycemic control. A healthy lifestyle had an additive effect on achieving glycemic goals, even among high‐GDP patients.
N6‐methyladenosine‐modified circFUT8 competitively interacts with YTHDF2 and miR‐186‐5p to stabilize FUT8 mRNA to promote malignant progression in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Dong Gaochao , Liang Yingkuan , Chen Bing , Zhang Te , Wang Hui , Chen Yuzhong , Zhang Yijian , Jiang Feng , Wang Yaping
Published: September 2023

Background

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer related to mortality worldwide, and the main pathological type is lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been reported to be modified by N6‐methyladenosine (m6A), which is involved in the progression of diverse tumors. However, the crosstalk between circRNAs and m6A modification has not been well elucidated in LUAD.

Methods

MeRIP‐seq and YTHDF2‐RIP‐seq datasets were explored to identify candidate circRNAs modified by YTHDF2. Dual‐luciferase reporter assay, RIP, and rescue assays were performed to explore the relationship between circFUT8 and its parent mRNA of FUT8. In vitro and in vivo experiments were utilized to uncover the function of circFUT8.

Results

In this study, we identified a novel m6A‐modified circFUT8, derived from exon 3 of FUT8, which was elevated in tumor tissues compared with adjacent noncancerous tissues. The m6A reader YTHDF2 recognized and destabilized circFUT8 in an m6A‐dependent manner. YTHDF2 also combined with the line form of FUT8 (mFUT8), and circFUT8 competitively interacted with YTHDF2, blunting its binding to mFUT8, to stabilize the mRNA level of FUT8. Additionally, circFUT8 sponged miR‐186‐5p to elevate the expression of mFUT8. Finally, we revealed that circFUT8 promoted the malignant progression of LUAD dependent on the oncogenic function of FUT8.

Conclusions

These findings identified a novel m6A‐modified circFUT8 recognized and destabilized by YTHDF2, which competitively interacted with YTHDF2 and miR‐186‐5p to stabilize FUT8 mRNA to promote malignant progression in LUAD.