bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plant G × Microbial E: Plant Genotype Interaction with Soil Bacterial Community Shapes Rhizosphere Composition During Invasion
Authors: Berlow Mae , Mesa Miles , Creek Mikayla , Duarte Jesse G. , Carpenter Elizabeth , Phinizy Brandon , Andonian Krikor , Dlugosch Katrina M.
Published: September 2024

It is increasingly recognized that different genetic variants of hosts can uniquely shape their microbiomes. Invasive species often evolve in their introduced ranges, but little is known about the potential for their microbial associations to change during invasion as a result. We asked whether host genotype (G), microbial environment (E), or their interaction (G × E) affected the composition and diversity of host-associated microbiomes in Centaurea solstitialis (yellow starthistle), a Eurasian plant that is known to have evolved novel genotypes and phenotypes and to have altered microbial interactions, in its severe invasion of CA, USA. We conducted an experiment in which native and invading plant genotypes were inoculated with native and invaded range soil microbial communities. We used amplicon sequencing to characterize rhizosphere bacteria in both the experiment and the field soils from which they were derived. We found that native and invading plant genotypes accumulated different microbial associations at the family level in each soil community, often counter to differences in family abundance between soil communities. Root associations with potentially beneficial Streptomycetaceae were particularly interesting, as these were more abundant in the invaded range field soil and accumulated on invading genotypes. We also found that bacterial diversity is higher in invaded soils, but that invading genotypes accumulated a lower diversity of bacteria and unique microbial composition in experimental inoculations, relative to native genotypes. Thus variation in microbial associations of invaders was driven by the interaction of plant G and microbial E, and rhizosphere microbial communities appear to change in composition in response to host evolution during invasion.
3d fluid–structure interaction simulation with an Arbitrary–Lagrangian–Eulerian approach with applications to flying objects
Authors: Di Cristofaro Daniele , Frangi Attilio , Cremonesi Massimiliano
Published: September 2024

Air-structure interaction is a key aspect to account for during the design of Micro Air Vehicles. In this context, modelisation and numerical simulations represent a powerful tool to analyse aerodynamic performances. This work proposes an advanced fluid–structure interaction numerical technique for the simulation of dragonfly wings, considered one of the most interesting model due to their complex flapping kinematic. The fluid subproblem, described by incompressible Navier–Stokes equations, is solved in a Finite Element Arbitrary-Lagrangian-Eulerian framework, while the solid subproblem is addressed using structural Finite Element, such as membranes and beams. Moreover, a novel remeshing algorithm based on connectivity manipulation and refinement procedure has been implemented to reduce element distortion in fluid mesh, thus increasing the accuracy of the fluid solution. Firstly, the deformation of a single hindwing has been studied. Secondly, the dragonfly model is enriched by incorporating the forewing and a simplified thorax geometry. Preliminary results highlight the complex dynamic of the fluid around the body as well as the efficiency of the proposed mesh generation algorithm.
Wegweiser zum Erfolg in der Wissenschaftskarriere
Authors: Glaas Saskia , Hehnen Melissa , Frey Dieter , Jauch Karl-Walter
Published: September 2024

Zusammenfassung: Nachwuchswissenschaftler_innen auf dem Weg zur Professur sind mit vielen Unsicherheiten konfrontiert. Das Seminar „Von der Bewerbung bis zur Berufung in Hochschulen“, angeboten am Center for Leadership and People Management (CLPM) der Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) München, unterstützt sie gezielt auf diesem Weg. Aufbauend auf dem Scientist-Practitioner Model of Training gewährt das Seminar einen Blick hinter die Kulissen von Berufungsverfahren, vermittelt Wissen und Werte, fördert Handlungskompetenzen und bietet Raum für kollegialen Austausch. Quantitative Evaluationsergebnisse zeigen Lerneffekte und eine Steigerung von Selbstwirksamkeitsindikatoren nach einer Seminarteilnahme. Weitere Analysen deuten darauf hin, dass insbesondere Frauen nach einer Seminarteilnahme eine optimistischere Einstellung bezüglich ihrer Karrierechancen entwickeln. Der vorliegende Artikel beschreibt die Inhalte und den Aufbau des Seminars, die zugrundeliegenden psychologischen Konzepte sowie zentrale Evaluationsergebnisse. Das Ziel dieses Beitrags ist es, Orientierung für eine flächendeckende Implementierung solcher Seminarkonzepte an Hochschulen zu bieten, sowie deren Bedeutsamkeit hervorzuheben.
Seamounts Enhance the Local Emission of CO2 in the Northern South China Sea
Authors: Zhang Gong , Han Bo , Yang Qinghua , Zhu Xueming , Wang Xiaojing , He Honge , Li Hongliang , Wang Xinyang , Xie Wei , Chen Dake
Published: September 2024

The South China Sea is a typical marginal sea characterized by the presence of numerous seamounts. However, the effect of seamounts on the air‐sea CO2 flux has not yet been well studied. In September 2021, the air‐sea CO2 flux was measured directly using eddy covariance (EC), and discrete waterside sampling was conducted. The results indicate that the northern South China Sea is a source of atmospheric CO2. Furthermore, EC measurements show that the seamount emits CO2 at an average rate of 0.34 mmol m−2 hr−1, nearly double that of non‐seamount areas. We suggest that the upwelling around the seamount transports deep water rich in dissolved inorganic carbon to the upper ocean, increasing the partial pressure of CO2 there. In addition, the increase in nutrients caused by the upwelling would increase the concentration of chlorophyll‐a, resulting in a productive area that emits CO2.
Fiber-Optic Cables Used to Measure Changing Soil Moisture
Authors: Hasler Caroline
Published: September 2024

Scientists are using seismic techniques to measure soil moisture. Their results show that recent droughts in California depleted water in the shallow subsurface.
First Altitude‐Triggered Lightning Experiment Associated With an Elevated Wind Turbine Blade on the Ground
Authors: He Jinliang , Yang Guohua , Li Quanxin , Zhang Jianpei , Zhang Yang , Lyu Weitao , Fu Lei , Zhuang Chijie , Zhang Bo
Published: September 2024

Lightning is the severest threaten to safe operation of wind turbines. In this letter, the authors present the first altitude‐triggered lightning experiment involving an elevated 12 m‐long wind turbine blade placed on the ground. A total of 50 precursors with amplitude over 62.9 A were observed through measurements of channel‐base current, fast electric field, and optical data. The air gap with around 3–5 m has been bridged between the wire's lower extremity and the metal blade tip during ascending of the rocket and it is observed to be luminous by slow framing rate camera. The precursors are classified into three groups, namely bipolar pulses, unipolar pulses, and group pulses. Excluding the precursors preceding the initial stage and M‐components at the late‐time of the initial stage, five stages are classified. In the first stage, the current remains limited at a relatively small value, while the electric field exhibited a slow rising behavior with positive polarity. In the second stage, the current starts to increase, and the electric field rapidly intensifies due to the accumulating charge, and the wire is assumed to experience an explosion. In the third stage, the reconnection process occurs. The current is characterized by a peak value of 1.45 kA with 10%–90% risetime of 10.4 μs. The electric fields suffer from notable decrease and are characterized by a microsecond‐scale V‐shape pulse. The current cutoff is quite short that almost not found. In the fourth step, the current is characterized by superimposed pulses. The final stage is the channel darkening.
Global Compression of the Plasma Sheet and Magnetotail During Intense Storms From THEMIS Observations
Authors: Alqeeq S. W. , Fontaine D. , Le Contel O. , Akhavan Tafti M. , Cazzola E. , Atilaw T. , Angelopoulos V. , Auster H. U.
Published: September 2024

We estimate the global impact of storms on the global structure and dynamics of the night side plasma sheet from observations by the NASA mission Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms (THEMIS). We focus on an intense storm occurring in December 2015 triggered by interplanetary coronal mass ejections (ICMEs). It starts with a storm sudden commencement (SSC) phase (SYM‐H +50 nT) followed by a growth phase (SYM‐H −188 nT at the minimum) and then a long recovery phase lasting several days. We investigate THEMIS observations when the spacecraft were located in the midnight sector of the plasma sheet at distances typically between 8 and 13 Earth's radii. It is found that the plasma sheet has been globally compressed up to a value of about 4 nPa during the SSC and main phases, that is, 8 times larger than its value during the quiet phase before the event. This compression occurs during periods of high dynamic pressure in the ICME (20 nPa) about one order of magnitude larger than its value in the pristine solar wind. We infer a global increase of the lobe magnetic field from 30 to 100 nT, confirmed by THEMIS data just outside the plasma sheet. During the SSC and main phases, the plasma sheet is found thinner by a factor of 2 relative to its thickness at quiet times, while the Tsyganenko T96 magnetic field model shows very stretched magnetic field lines from inner magnetospheric regions toward the night side. During the recovery phase, whereas the interplanetary pressure has dropped off, the plasma sheet tends to gradually recover its quiet phase characteristics (pressure, thickness, magnetic configuration, etc.) during a long recovery phase of several days.
Revealing the pH-dependent conformational changes in sol g 2.1 protein and potential ligands binding
Authors: Nonkhwao Siriporn , Leaokittikul Doungkamol , Patramanon Rina , Jangpromma Nisachon , Daduang Jureerut , Daduang Sakda
Published: September 2024

Sol g 2, a major protein found in the venom of the tropical fire ant (Solenopsis geminata), is well-known for its ability to bind various hydrophobic molecules. In this study, we investigate the binding activity of recombinant Sol g 2.1 protein (rSol g 2.1) with potential molecules, including (E)-β-Farnesene, α-Caryophyllene, and 1-Octen-3-ol at different pH levels (pH 7.4 and 5.5) using fluorescence competitive binding assays (FCBA). Our results revealed that Sol g 2.1 protein has higher affinity binding with these ligands at neutral pH. Relevance to molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations were utilized to provide insights into the stability and conformational dynamics of Sol g 2.1 and its ligand complexes. After simulation, we found that Sol g 2.1 protein has higher affinity binding with these ligands as well as high structural stability at pH 7.4 than at an acidic pH level, indicating by RMSD, RMSF, Rg, SASA, and principal component analysis (PCA). Additionally, the Sol g 2.1 protein complexes at pH 7.4 showed significantly lower binding free energy (∆Gbind) and higher total residue contributions, particularly from key non-polar amino acids such as Trp36, Met40, Cys62, and Ile104, compared to the lower pH environment. These explain why they exhibited higher binding affinity than the lower pH. Therefore, we suggested that Sol g 2.1 protein is a pH-responsive carrier protein. These findings also expand our understanding of protein–ligand interactions and offer potential avenues for the development of innovative drug delivery strategies targeting Sol g 2.1 protein.
Exogenous selenium mitigates cadmium uptake and accumulation in two rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties in cadmium-contaminated soil
Authors: Wu Wenjiang , Qi Deqiang , Chen Yalong , Wang Jiaqi , Zhang Ganggang , Wang Qinghua , Niu Hongbin , Zhao Quanzhi , Peng Ting
Published: September 2024

Rice grown in cadmium (Cd)-contaminated soil, is a potential threat to human health, but exogenous selenium (Se) application on rice can mitigate Cd toxicity. However, the mechanisms underlying Se mitigation of Cd stress in ratoon rice (RR) are still poorly understood. We conducted a pot experiment with moderate Cd-contaminated yellow–brown paddy soil on two rice varieties ‘Taoyouxiangzhan’ (TX) and ‘Liangyou 6326’(LY). For all treatments, 1.0 mg kg−1 sodium selenite solution was added to soil. Treatment T1 was sodium selenite only, and in the other treatments 100 mg L−1 Se solution was sprayed on the leaves at seedling stage (T2), at tillering stage (T3), and in early anthesis stage (T4). Se treatments decreased Cd accumulation in rice grains and herbage. Under foliar spraying 100 mg L−1 Se at the seedling + 1.0 mg kg−1 Se in soil (T2), leaf Cd content decreased 16.95% in the current season and grains content decreased 46.67% in the subsequent season. Furthermore, grain Se content increased 0.94 mg kg−1 for the TX variety combined with the analysis of Cd bio-accumulation factor in grains, and Se treatments effectively decreased Cd grain concentrations due to reduced Cd translocation from roots to grains. TX variety rice showed a more pronounced response to Se treatments than LY.
Astodrimer sodium nasal spray forms a barrier to SARS-CoV-2 in vitro and preserves normal mucociliary function in human nasal epithelium
Authors: Paull Jeremy R. A. , Luscombe Carolyn A. , Seta Aynaz , Heery Graham P. , Bobardt Michael D. , Gallay Philippe A. , Constant Samuel , Castellarnau Alex
Published: September 2024

COVID-19 remains a severe condition for many including immunocompromised individuals. There remains a need for effective measures against this and other respiratory infections, which transmit via virus-laden droplets that reach the nasal or oral mucosae. Nasal sprays offer potential protection against viruses. Such formulations should preserve normal nasal mucociliary function. The antiviral barrier efficacy and effects on mucociliary function of astodrimer sodium nasal spray (AS-NS) were evaluated and compared with other available nasal sprays—low pH hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC-NS), iota-carrageenan (Carr-NS), nitric oxide (NO-NS), and povidone iodine (PI-NS). Assays simulated clinical conditions. Antiviral barrier function and cell viability were assessed in airway cell monolayers, while a model of fully differentiated human nasal epithelium (MucilAir™) was utilized to evaluate tissue integrity, cytotoxicity, cilia beating frequency, and mucociliary clearance. AS-NS reduced infectious virus in cell monolayers and demonstrated a benign cytotoxicity profile. In human nasal epithelium ex vivo, AS-NS had no impact on mucociliary function (cilia beating nor mucociliary clearance). Carr-NS, HPMC-NS, NO-NS and PI-NS demonstrated limited antiviral effects, while HPMC-NS caused inhibition of mucociliary function. Astodrimer sodium nasal spray demonstrates an acceptable nonclinical efficacy and safety profile as a barrier nasal spray against respiratory viral infection in the nasal cavity.
Cell wall melanin impedes growth of the
Cryptococcus neoformans
polysaccharide capsule by sequestering calcium
Authors: Baker Rosanna P. , Liu Amy Z. , Casadevall Arturo
Published: September 2024

Cryptococcus neoformans
has emerged as a frontrunner among deadly fungal pathogens and is particularly life-threatening for many HIV-infected individuals with compromised immunity. Multiple virulence factors contribute to the growth and survival of
C. neoformans
within the human host, the two most prominent of which are the polysaccharide capsule and melanin. As both of these features are associated with the cell wall, we were interested to explore possible cooperative or competitive interactions between these two virulence factors. Whereas capsule thickness had no effect on the rate at which cells became melanized, build-up of the melanin pigment layer resulted in a concomitant loss of polysaccharide material, leaving melanized cells with significantly thinner capsules than their nonmelanized counterparts. When melanin was provided exogenously to cells in a transwell culture system we observed a similar inhibition of capsule growth and maintenance. Our results show that melanin sequesters calcium thereby limiting its availability to form divalent bridges between polysaccharide subunits required for outer capsule assembly. The decreased ability of melanized cells to incorporate exported polysaccharide into the growing capsule correlated with the amount of shed polysaccharide, which could have profound negative impacts on the host immune response.
Effect of lignin contents in raw lignocellulosic materials on the efficiency of modification process and the removal of Fe3+, Ca2+, and Mg2+ in aqueous solution
Authors: Nguyen Dang T.
Published: September 2024

The different chemical agents such as ethanol, NaOH/water, and NaOH/ethanol-water were investigated to separate the lignin component in the three kinds of raw lignocellulosic materials (cotton fiber, acacia auriculiformis sawdust, coconut shell powder) in the Souther Vietnam. The lignin contents were evaluated based on the Kappa number. The obtained results revealed that the 0.2 mol/L (M) solution of NaOH in the ethanol:water v/v ratio of 7:3 was the good delignified agent and the lignin contents reduced in the sequence as follow: coconut shell powder > acacia auriculiformis sawdust > cotton fiber. The lignin contents in raw materials have significant influence on the efficiency of modification process by using citric acid (CA) in the sequence as follow: modified cotton fiber > modified acacia auriculiformis sawdust > modified coconut shell powder. When using a fixed-bed column, the obtained results showed that modified materials could remove Fe3+, Ca2+, and Mg2+ with the good efficiency in some specific conditions.
Introduction and Context
Authors: Hayward Benjamin
Published: September 2024

This introductory chapter first sets out this book’s focus, namely the conflict of laws in international commercial arbitration. Its argument is twofold: first, that the discretion reposed in arbitrators resolving conflict of laws questions concerning the substantive law governing the merits in international commercial arbitration is too wide; and, second, that a bright-line test based on the concept of the closest connection is a preferable mechanism by which these questions can be resolved. In essence, this book critiques discretion in arbitral procedure in the specific arbitral conflicts context. The remainder of the chapter establishes the background to this book’s analysis. It takes as its starting point the preferred status of international commercial arbitration, and from this point introduces arbitral conflicts of laws—this book’s key subject-matter.
Identified Issues in the Current Regulatory Regime
Authors: Hayward Benjamin
Published: September 2024

This chapter identifies problematic features of the current regulatory regime for conflicts of laws in international commercial arbitration. The current regulatory regime evidences broad arbitral discretion in the ability of arbitrators applying pure voie indirecte provisions to adopt any conflicts rule considered ‘appropriate’, ‘applicable’, or ‘authoritative’; through the pure voie directe’s wide freedom to directly choose the ‘appropriate’, ‘most appropriate’, or ‘applicable’ law; through the facilitative role that conflict of laws rules may play within the pure and guided voie directe; and through arbitrators’ use of implicit conflicts analyses under pure voie directe provisions. The chapter then analyzes the justifications for arbitral discretion in resolving conflicts of laws, following with theoretical and practical critiques of the current regulatory regime.
A Proposed Solution—A Bright-Line Test
Authors: Hayward Benjamin
Published: September 2024

This chapter demonstrates that reform of the current regulatory regime for arbitral conflicts of laws should be via a bright-line test. These are accurate: their correct application generates a particular result, so they give ‘clearer notice’ to arbitrating and commercial parties regarding the applicable law. Adopting a test for arbitral conflicts would not be over-regulating. The wholesale adoption of detailed procedural rules—the kind of State court procedure arbitration seeks to avoid—is different from appropriately regulating a particular procedural question for which broad discretions do not quite fit. What is advocated here falls far short of an unachievable universal arbitration law, the New York Convention showing that harmonization attempts are feasible over a modest and appropriate range of procedural issues.
A Proposed Closest Connection Test—The (Modified) Art 4 Rome Convention Rule
Authors: Hayward Benjamin
Published: September 2024

Chapter 5 recommended the closest connection test as the basis for reforming conflicts of laws in international commercial arbitration. This chapter analyzes six distinct variations of the closest connection test. It then proposes a (modified) Art 4 Rome Convention rule as the specific basis for reform. The three modifications recommended are: addition of the word ‘clearly’ or ‘manifestly’ to the original text of Art 4(5) Rome Convention, to confirm the strength of the Art 4(2) Rome Convention characteristic performance presumption; substitution of a power to apply rules of law, for the power to apply only law, to facilitate the lex mercatoria’s application in cases involving evenly distributed connecting factors; and substitution of the case criterion for the original contract criterion, as the matter to which the applicable (rules of) law must be connected.
Further Psychometric Testing of the Chest Pain Conception Questionnaire in a Racially and Ethnically Diverse Sample
Authors: Blakeman John R. , Kim MyoungJin , Eckhardt Ann L.
Published: September 2024

Background

The Chest Pain Conception Questionnaire was developed to measure the lay public's conceptions of chest pain related to acute coronary syndrome.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to further test the Chest Pain Conception Questionnaire in a racially and ethnically diverse sample.

Methods

Participants from across the United States completed an online survey. Confirmatory factor analysis and descriptive statistics were used to characterize the instrument's performance.

Results

Participants (N = 597) were primarily women (59.6%), White (69.3%), and non-Hispanic (83.4%) with a mean age of 54.0 years (SD = 11.5). Confirmatory factor analysis supported the original 3-factor structure of the instrument, c
2(58) = 132.32, P = .000, root mean square error of approximation = 0.04, confirmatory fit index = 0.95, Tucker-Lewis index = 0.93, standardized root mean square residual = 0.04. Other instrument characteristics from this validation study were similar to the initial development study.

Conclusions

This study further supports construct validity and internal consistency of the instrument in the target population.
Diagnostic Accuracy of the ICD-10 Code for Lichen Sclerosus in Black Women
Authors: Akinshemoyin Vaughn Olushola L. , Anyanwu Precious A. , Estill Mariah C.
Published: September 2024

The prevalence of vulvar lichen sclerosus in Black women is unknown. There is a lack of validity using the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) code L90.0 to identify women with vulvar lichen sclerosus overall, with less accuracy in Black women.
Modulation of mechanosensation by endogenous dopaminergic signaling in the lateral parabrachial nucleus in mice
Authors: Koo Ho , Wang Jigong , Pariyar Ramesh , Hammond Regan M. , La Jun-Ho
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

The lateral parabrachial nucleus (LPBN), a crucial hub for integrating and modulating diverse sensory information, is known to express both D1 and D2 dopamine receptors and receive dopaminergic inputs. However, the role of the LPBN's dopaminergic system in somatosensory processing remains largely unexplored. In this study, we investigated whether mechanical sensory stimulation triggers dopamine release in the LPBN and how D1- and D2-like receptor signaling in the LPBN influences mechanosensitivity in mice.

Methods:

We used a G-protein-coupled receptor–based dopamine sensor to monitor dopamine release in the LPBN and a von Frey filament assay to measure the mechanical threshold for nocifensive withdrawal in mouse hind paws after unilateral microinjection of D1- or D2-like receptor antagonist into the LPBN.

Results:

Noxious mechanical stimulation increased the dopamine sensor signal in the LPBN. Thresholds of nocifensive withdrawal from mechanical stimulation were decreased by the D1-like receptor antagonist SCH-23390 (0.1 µg) but increased by the D2-like receptor antagonist eticlopride (1 µg). In the intraplantar capsaicin injection model that develops mechanical hypersensitivity in the injected paw, the dopamine sensor signal in the LPBN was increased, and eticlopride (1 µg) in the LPBN significantly inhibited the capsaicin-induced mechanical hypersensitivity.

Conclusions:

These results suggest that endogenous dopaminergic signaling occurs in the LPBN upon noxious mechanical stimulation, inhibiting mechanosensitivity through D1-like receptors while enhancing it through D2-like receptors. D2-like receptor signaling in the LPBN may contribute to an injury-induced increase in mechanical nociception, indicating that inhibiting the receptor within the LPBN could offer potential as a novel analgesic strategy.
Long-term Outcomes Following Colectomy and Liver Transplantation for Inflammatory Bowel Disease with Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis
Authors: Matar Abraham J. , Falconer Elissa , LaBella Michelle , Kapadia Muneera R. , Justiniano Carla F. , Olortegui Kinga Skowron , Steinhagen Randolph , Schultz Kurt , Pratap Anurag , Leeds Ira , Weaver Lauren , Gaertner Wolfgang , Finger Erik B. , Thompson Mary , Fair Lucas , Fichera Alessandro , Lovasik Brendan P. , Chapman William C. , McGeoch Catherine LB. , Camacho Mary Catherine , Kazimi Marwan , Kim Steven C. , Shaffer Virginia O. , Srinivasan Jahnavi K.
Published: September 2024

Objective:

To investigate the long-term outcomes of patients with combined primary sclerosing cholangitis/inflammatory bowel disease (PSC-IBD) undergoing both liver transplantation (LT) and total abdominal colectomy (TAC).

Summary Background Data:

The fraction of patients with PSC-IBD that require both LT and TAC is small, thereby limiting significant conclusions regarding long-term outcomes.

Methods:

Adult and pediatric patients from nine centers from the US IBD Surgery Collaborative who underwent staged LT and TAC for PSC-IBD were included. Long-term outcomes, including survival, were assessed.

Results:

Among 127 patients, 66 underwent TAC-before-LT, with a median time from TAC to LT of 7.9 yrs, while 61 underwent LT-before-TAC, with a median time from LT to TAC of 4.4 years. Median patient survival post TAC was significantly worse in those undergoing LT-before-TAC (16.0 yrs vs. 42.6 yrs, P=0.007), while post LT survival was not impacted by the order of TAC and LT (21.6 yrs vs. 22.0 yrs, P=0.81). Patients undergoing TAC for medically refractory disease had a higher incidence of recurrent PSC (rPSC) (P=0.02) and biliary complications (0.09) compared to those undergoing TAC for oncologic indications. Definitive TAC reconstruction with either end ileostomy or ileal-pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA) did not impact post-LT or post-TAC outcomes.

Conclusions:

Long term survival in PSC-IBD was contingent upon progression to LT and was not impacted by the need for TAC. PSC-IBD patients undergoing TAC for medically refractory disease had a higher incidence of rPSC and biliary complications. The use of IPAA in PSC-IBD was a viable alternative to end ileostomy.
5-(Pyridin-3-yl)-3,4-dihydro-2
H
-furan-1-ium (NNKFI): a computational study of its physico-chemical properties
Authors: Millam Evan , Deligkaris Christos , Wade Edmir O.
Published: September 2024

Recent work on the diazonium ion metabolite of 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNKDI) suggests that 5-(pyridin-3-yl)-3,4-dihydro-2
H
-furan-1-ium (NNKFI) may form from NNKDI via an intramolecular reaction. NNKDI is an important carcinogen whose role as an alkylating agent has received significant attention. While there is some experimental evidence supporting NNKFI’s production
in vitro
, it has not yet been directly observed. Little is known about NNKFI’s structure and reactivity. We report the first
in silico
examination of this ion. Our study utilized Kohn–Sham density functional theory (B3LYP/6-311G**) and coupled cluster theory (CCSD/6-31G*) to produce energy-optimized structures, vibrational normal modes and molecular orbitals for NNKFI. To gain insight into the chemical properties of this species, we calculated electrostatic potential surfaces, natural population analysis charges and local Fukui indices. We report data and results for NNKFI’s
cis
and
trans
conformers. Our work confirms C5 as the preferred site for nucleophilic attack in NNKFI. Stretching motions and predicted bond lengths near O1 are consistent with a somewhat weakened carbonyl structure in this ion. Partial charges, electrostatic potential surfaces and local Fukui indices reveal delocalization of cationic charge on the furanium moiety and notable carbocation character at C5.
Determinants of household choice of cooking fuel in India: evidence from National Family Health Survey 5
Authors: Choudhury Dinesh Kumar , Guptha Siva Kiran , Gurung Rajiv
Published: September 2024

Purpose

More than 40% of Indian households still rely on unclean cooking fuels, exposing particularly women and children to adverse health effects. This paper explores the factors determining a household’s cooking fuel choice in India.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used the fifth round of the National Family Health Survey (2019-21) dataset. A chi-square test and a logistic regression were used for empirical analysis. Cooking fuel was categorized as “clean” and “unclean” cooking fuel.

Findings

The result shows that around 47% of the households are still using unclean cooking fuel in India. Households with a better-educated or female head, those with smaller family sizes, those with a higher level of wealth and those located in urban areas are more likely to use clean cooking fuel. Similarly, households headed by younger individuals and Muslim households are linked to more usage of clean cooking fuels. However, Scheduled Tribe (ST) and Other Backward Classes (OBC) households and those headed by older individuals are less likely to use clean cooking fuels.

Research limitations/implications

The cross-sectional nature of data enables us to draw only associations between the variables and not causal relationships between them. The findings of this study have important implications for household energy policies in India and other developing nations. There is a need for policymakers to seriously consider socioeconomic factors in addressing issues and challenges associated with household energy consumption.

Originality/value

The study extends the empirical literature on determinants of household cooking fuel choice using the latest round of National Family Health Survey data from India.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-12-2023-0988
Destination brand gestalt: dimensionalizing co-created tourism destination branding
Authors: Mandagi Deske W. , Centeno Dave
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Anchored in the theories of brand gestalt and stakeholder perspectives, this study aims to undertake a comprehensive examination of the brand gestalt concept, emphasizing its multidimensional nature and the process of co-creation.

Design/methodology/approach

Focused within the context of the Wonderful Indonesia brand, the research draws upon a rich qualitative data set derived from in-depth interviews conducted with 18 international tourists, supplemented by netnography (or internet ethnography) of websites, social media and online articles related to Wonderful Indonesia. Using grounded theory methodology, the qualitative data undergo rigorous analysis to identify emergent themes and patterns.

Findings

The research elucidates the four dimensions (4S) comprising brand gestalt: storyscapes, sensescapes, servicescapes and stakeholderscapes. Each dimension is further delineated into essential categories, providing a comprehensive understanding of brand gestalt. This study highlights the collaborative nature of brand gestalt, emphasizing the involvement of multiple stakeholders in shaping the brand's identity and perception. Consumer perceptions of co-creation are identified as significant contributors to brand gestalt, enhancing the brand's value proposition.

Practical implications

Destination management and practitioners can use the insights from the research to refine their brand management and marketing strategies by leveraging the dimensions of brand gestalt. Recognizing the collaborative construct of brand gestalt can guide businesses in fostering meaningful relationships with stakeholders and aligning branding efforts with collective visions. Understanding the role of consumer co-creation in brand development can inform strategies aimed at enhancing brand equity and fostering consumer loyalty.

Originality/value

This study extends existing literature on brand gestalt by providing a comprehensive examination of its four dimensions and essential categories. By emphasizing the collaborative nature of brand gestalt, this study contributes to advancing the understanding of brand co-creation paradigms. The identification of consumer perceptions of co-creation as a significant factor in brand gestalt adds novel insights to the literature, offering valuable implications for brand management and marketing strategies.
Flying to your home yard: the mediation and moderation model of the intention to employ drones for last-mile delivery
Authors: Ngah Abdul Hafaz , Thurasamy Ramayah , Rahi Samar , Kamalrulzaman Nurul Izni , Rashid Aamir , Long Fei
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Drones will become part of daily lives similar to smartphones becoming a staple of modern living. Nonetheless, only several past studies investigated the intention to utilise drones for parcel delivery however, the intention to use drones among online shoppers was not fully explored. The study attempts to investigate the factors influencing the intention to use drones for last-mile delivery.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 292 data were gathered via an online survey among online shoppers applying a snowball sampling method. Since the study operationalised the measures as composites, a combination of reflective and formative measurement, and the study focusses on predictive purposes, partial least squares structural equation modelling with SmartPLS 4 was applied to test the model developed based on the stimulus-organism-response model.

Findings

The analysis found that all the direct hypotheses were found supported. Moreover, Green support, green desire and pro-environmental behaviour positively and sequentially mediated future orientation and intention, whereas technology anxiety and perceived safety moderated the relationship between pro-environmental behaviour and intention.

Research limitations/implications

The respondents only limit to the online shoppers in Malaysia which based on purposive sampling method, thus the findings cannot be generalized to another countries.

Practical implications

Besides enriching the literature on drone studies, the findings provided practical insights to online platforms and drone operators to develop an effective strategy to encourage online shoppers to shift from conventional delivery to drone delivery.

Originality/value

The study developed a new model for drone delivery studies using the S-O-R model in introducing orientation towards the future and green support as the stimulus, green desire as an organism and pro-environmental behaviour and usage intention as a response. The study introduced multiple sequential mediators, also contributing to the S-O-R model to predict online shoppers' behaviour towards drones as a tool for last-mile delivery. Another important contribution, technology anxiety and perceived safety were confirmed to have a moderation effect for the relationship between pro-environmental behaviour and intention to use drones for last-mile delivery.
Prioritizing factors for generative artificial intelligence-based innovation adoption in hospitality industry
Authors: AL-Khatib Ayman wael
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The present research aims to explore the drivers of generative artificial intelligence (GEN AI)-based innovation adoption in the hospitality industry in Jordan.

Design/methodology/approach

To address the research gap and achieve the research work objectives, the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) lens and the structural equation modeling (SEM) approach were employed to analyze the sample data collected (n = 221) from the hospitality industry.

Findings

The findings indicate that relative advantage, top management support, organizational readiness, organizational culture, competitive pressures, government regulations support and vendor support significantly influence the GEN-AI-based innovation adoption, while the technological complexity is negatively associated with GEN-AI-based innovation adoption. Furthermore, the results showed there is no significant effect of cost on GEN-AI-based innovation adoption.

Originality/value

The paper analyses the TOE framework in a new technological setting. The paper also provides information about how GEN-AI-based innovation adoption may influence hospitality industry performance. Overall, this article provides new insights into the literature concerning AI technologies and through the TOE lens.
Heart and soul: business model innovation by a work-integration organization
Authors: Singh Anita Ranjan , Pangarkar Nitin
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This paper aimed to study business model innovation by a work-integration social enterprise (WISE). Specifically, the study investigated how the organization developed novel value propositions and created and delivered value for multiple stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

An in-depth qualitative study was conducted at Foreword, a for-profit organization that uses persons with disabilities, mental health conditions and special needs. Data was drawn from semi-structured interviews with stakeholders of the organization and several secondary information sources.

Findings

The authors’ inductive analysis revealed the existence of an innovative and powerful business model that is integrated by the organization’s overarching social mission and anchors its ability to deal with multiple conflicting logics such as economic, social, ecological sustainability and community development, to co-create value with and for multiple stakeholders.

Research limitations/implications

The study underscores the need for business model innovation through enhancing value creation for multiple stakeholders for for-profit WISEs. Since the analysis and resulting model in the study are based on a single organization in a geographically small, affluent country with a hands-on government, they may need to be modified before applying in other contexts.

Practical implications

The study identifies several pointers for other social enterprises – specifically the need for managers to build business models appropriate for their organizational and environmental contexts.

Originality/value

The study’s originality stems from the adoption of a stakeholder lens to examine business model innovation. It also proposes an integrative conceptual model of the antecedents and outcomes of business model innovation.
Can immigrant workers help to solve the child labour problem?
Authors: Basu Bharati
Published: September 2024

Bans on child labour as mitigating measures to avoid the abuse of child labour have now been widely recognized to be ineffective and may be costly for low‐ and middle‐income countries. Evaluations of different social programmes and efforts by international organizations to reduce child labour provide the same conclusion. This paper explores how the existence of immigrant workers, a common economic condition for many of these countries, can be effectively used as a novel and cheap mechanism to mitigate the employment of child labour. I show that when immigrant workers are available at discounted wages, profit‐maximizing firms will switch from child labour to immigrant workers. From a policy standpoint, this suggests that conditions can be generated to move the economy to a no‐child‐labour equilibrium. Although the solution may be a second‐best for immigrant workers, it may help avoid the undesirable social consequences of child labour and at the same time ease the economic and non‐economic concerns about immigration.
Parental magnetic resonance imaging for the evaluation of fetuses with brain anomalies
Authors: Libzon Stephanie , Gafner Michal , Lev Dorit , Waiserberg Nilly , Gindes Liat , Leibovitz Zvi , Ben‐Sira Liat , Lerman‐Sagie Tally
Published: September 2024

Aim

To evaluate the role of parental magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in assessing fetuses with suspected brain anomalies and its use in prenatal counselling.

Method

A retrospective, multicentre chart review was conducted on fetuses who underwent brain MRI because of suspected brain abnormalities between January 2008 and December 2022, with one or both parents who underwent brain MRI (MRI‐Trio) as part of prenatal counselling. Clinical and demographic data were collected, including fetal and parental MRI findings, prenatal counselling outcomes, genetic testing results, family and previous pregnancy history, neurological examinations of the born children up to 24 months of age, and autopsy reports of fetuses from terminated pregnancies. MRI‐Trio concordance was defined as at least one abnormal brain feature identified with similarity in the fetus and the parents. The live‐born children were assessed postnatally through either neurodevelopmental evaluations or telephone interviews.

Results

Sixty pregnancies were included (41.7% with concordant and 58.3% with discordant MRI‐Trio). Forty‐two children were born (70%) and 17 pregnancies were terminated (28.3%). One case of in utero fetal death (1.7%) was reported. The most common brain findings were multiple anomalies (n = 26, 43.3%), isolated disorders of the corpus callosum (n = 17, 28.3%), atypical periventricular pseudocysts (n = 6, 10%), and anomalies of the anterior complex (n = 4, 6.7%). MRI‐Trio enabled better prognostication. When MRI‐Trio was concordant, counselling was more favourable (n = 22, 36.6%) and the majority of live‐born children exhibited typical development (p < 0.001).

Interpretation

MRI‐Trio is a valuable tool for identifying dominantly inherited brain anomalies that may not hold developmental significance or are associated with favourable outcomes, acknowledging the potential for variable penetrance, which may result in more severe presentations. Concordant MRI‐Trio findings can enhance the accuracy of prenatal counselling, potentially reducing the incidence of termination of pregnancy.
Top management team incentive dispersion and management earnings forecasts
Authors: Kalelkar Rachana , Shi Yuan , Xu Hongkang
Published: September 2024

We investigate whether heterogeneity in pay‐performance sensitivity (PPS) among top management team (TMT) members affects management earnings forecasts (MEFs). Extant studies find that dispersion of PPS among TMT members results in a lack of coordination among TMT members and has a significant consequence for the firm. Since the issuance of forecasts is jointly determined by TMT managers, we argue that heterogeneity in PPS among TMT members will affect forecast issuance. We find that firms are less likely to issue MEFs when PPS dispersion among TMT members is high. Moreover, the forecasts of these firms are less optimistic. Finally, our analyses reveal that the effect of dispersion of PPS among TMT members on MEFs is more pronounced when the difference in PPS between the chief executive officer and other executives is high or team tenure is short. Overall, our results suggest that heterogeneity in PPS among TMT members affects a firm's voluntary disclosures.
Verifiable content in social media stock‐analysis articles: The long and short of it
Authors: Chen Lei , Chen Shuping , Gao Tian , Zhao Wuyang
Published: September 2024

Investment‐related social media platforms are transforming the traditional intermediary landscape by rapidly disseminating user‐empowered opinions and recommendations, raising concerns about the credibility of information on such platforms. We examine the differential content verifiability of SeekingAlpha.com articles with sell recommendations (short articles) versus articles with buy recommendations (long articles). We find that short articles contain greater verifiable content than long articles, and verifiable content in short articles generates greater market reactions and better mitigates return reversals than that in long articles. This asymmetry contrasts prior research evidence that greater content verifiability accompanies traditional sell‐side analyst reports with buy recommendations. Our results are robust to various confounding factors, including author effects, among others. Our results become more pronounced in the presence of greater retail ownership. Taken together, our results provide new evidence on investors’ assessment of the credibility of information on social media platforms.
Two Norms Collide: EU Policy on Fragile and Conflict‐Affected Countries
Authors: Bergmann Julian , Furness Mark
Published: September 2024

The European Union's (EU's) policy towards fragile and conflict‐affected (FCA) countries has been framed by a normative solidarity narrative that promotes and legitimises collective action. Over the past two decades, the EU's commitment to protecting the security of its citizens has increasingly become a strong, competing normative driver of EU engagement in FCA countries. In tracing its evolution, this symposium article shows how the collision of the ‘solidarity’ and ‘protection’ norms has shaped the EU's approach towards state fragility. We illustrate this by discussing the policy frameworks for the EU's engagements in Mali and Libya. We argue that whilst the increasing relative strength of the protection norm has not united EU Member States around a common set of objectives, the solidarity norm has proven to be resilient at the discursive level. However, the increasing prevalence of the protection norm has weakened the solidarity norm's influence on policy practice. This has had systemic effects and contributed to incoherencies in the EU's foreign policy approach.
European Union Normative Positions, Resilience and Contestation: A Perceptual Approach
Authors: Chaban Natalia , Elgström Ole
Published: September 2024

Positioned within a perceptual approach to European Union (EU) foreign policy, this article explores tensions relating to the resilience of the EU's normative identity, focusing on factors and explanations external to the EU. We engage with EU perceptions amongst external partners theorized as active agents/potential contributors to contestation processes. We focus on the perceived role of the EU as an international normative actor expected to mitigate the existential risks of climate change and pandemics for its own citizens and globally. We hypothesize two conditions for EU images to become less (or more) resilient in the face of contestation: (1) persistent contradictions leading to expectation–performance gaps as an initial condition and (2) situations of crisis, marked by perceptions of a watershed/historical event and strong emotions, that may amplify the expectation–performance gap. Empirically, we engage with the findings of the two major studies of EU external perceptions held by the EU's key global partners.