bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Long-term individual and population functional outcomes in older adults with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Parks Anna L. , Jeon Sun Y. , Boscardin W. John , Steinman Michael A. , Smith Alexander K. , Fang Margaret C. , Shah Sachin J. 
Published: November 2020

AbstractBackgroundOlder adults with atrial fibrillation (AF) have multiple risk factors for disablement. Long-term function and the contribution of strokes to disability has not been previously characterized.MethodsWe performed a longitudinal, observational study in the nationally representative Health and Retirement Study (1992-2014). We included participants ≥65 years with Medicare claims who met incident AF diagnosis claims criteria. We examined the association of incident stroke with three functional outcomes: independence with activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) and community-dwelling. We fit separate logistic regression models with repeated measures adjusting for comorbidities and demographics to estimate the effect of stroke on function. We estimate the contribution of strokes to the overall population burden of functional impairment using the method of recycled predictions.ResultsAmong 3530 participants (median age 79 years, 53% women, median CHA2DS2-VASc 5), 262 had a stroke over 17,396 person-years. Independent of stroke and accounting for population comorbidities, annually, ADL dependence increased by 4.4%, IADL dependence increased by 3.9%, and nursing home residence increased by 1.2% (p<0.05 for all). Accounting for comorbidities, of those who experienced a stroke, 31.9% developed new ADL dependence, 26.5% developed new IADL dependence, and 8.6% newly moved to a nursing home (p<0.05 for all). Considering all causes of function loss, 1.7% of ADL disability-years, 1.2% of IADL disability-years, and 7.3% of nursing home years could be attributed to stroke over 7.4years.ConclusionOlder adults lose substantial function over time following AF diagnosis, independent of stroke. Stroke was associated with a significant decline in function and an increase in the likelihood of nursing home move, but stroke did not accelerate subsequent disability accrual. Because of the high background rate of functional loss, stroke was not the dominant determinant of population-level disability in older adults with AF.Impact statementWe certify that this work is novel. Little is known about long-term function (ADL, IADL, community-dwelling) among older adults with AF and the association with stroke. This nationally representative study finds a high rate of function loss independent of stroke, and among those who suffer a stroke, a dramatic and immediate decline in function. Because of the high rate of function loss independent of stroke and the relatively low rate of stroke, on a population level, stroke is not the dominant determinant of disability in older adults with AF.
AXTEX-4D™: A Novel 3Dex vivoplatform for preclinical investigations of immunotherapy agents
Authors: Baru Ambica , Sharma Swati , Purkayastha Biswa Pratim Das , Khan Sameena , Mazumder Saumyabrata , Gupta Reeshu , Kundu Prabuddha Kumar , Arora Nupur Mehrotra 
Published: November 2020

AbstractThe latest advancements in oncology are majorly focused on immuno-oncology (I-O) therapies. However, only ~7% of drugs are being approved from the preclinical discovery phase to phase 1. The most challenging issues in I-O is the problem of developing active and efficient drugs economically and on time. This mandates an urgent need for better preclinical screening models that closely mimic thein vivotumor microenvironment. The established and most common methods for investigating the tumoricidal activity of I-O drugs are either two-dimensional (2D) systems or primary tumor cells in standard tissue culture vessels. However, they do not mimic the tumor microenvironment. Therefore, the morein vivo-like three-dimensional (3D) multicellular tumor spheroids are quickly becoming the favored model to examine immune cell-mediated responses in reaction to the administration of I-O drugs. Accordingly, we have demonstrated the utility of the three-dimensionalex vivooncology model, developed on our novel AXTEX-4D™ platform to assess therapeutic efficacies of I-O drugs by investigating immune cell proliferation, migration, infiltration, cytokine profiling, and cytotoxicity of tumor tissueoids. The platform eliminates the need for additional biomolecules such as hydrogels and instead relies on the cancer cells themselves to create their own gradients and microenvironmental factors. In effect, the more comprehensive and invivolike immune-oncology model developed on AXTEX-4D™ platform can be utilized for high-throughput screening of immunotherapeutic drugs.
Cryo-EM structure of a proton-activated chloride channel TMEM206
Authors: Deng Zengqin , Zhao Yonghui , Feng Jing , Zhang Jingying , Zhao Haiyan , Rau Michael J. , Fitzpatrick James A.J. , Hu Hongzhen , Yuan Peng 
Published: November 2020

AbstractTMEM206 has been recently identified as an evolutionarily conserved chloride channel that underlies ubiquitously expressed, proton-activated, outwardly rectifying anion currents. Here we report the cryo-electron microscopy structure of pufferfish TMEM206, which forms a trimeric channel, with each subunit comprising two transmembrane segments, the outer and inner helices, and a large extracellular domain. An ample vestibule in the extracellular region is accessible laterally from the three side portals. The central pore contains multiple constrictions preventing ion conduction. A conserved lysine residue near the cytoplasmic end of the inner helix forms the presumed chloride ion selectivity filter. Unprecedentedly, the core structure and assembly closely resemble those of the epithelial sodium channel/degenerin family of sodium channels that are unrelated in amino acid sequence and conduct cations instead of anions. Together with electrophysiology, this work provides insights into ion conduction and gating for a new class of chloride channels that is architecturally distinct from previously characterized chloride channel families.
Nucleoid associated proteins and their effect onE. colichromosome
Authors: Gupta Ankit , Wasim Abdul , Mondal Jagannath 
Published: November 2020

AbstractA seemingly random and disorganized bacterial chromosome, in reality, is a well organized nucleus-like structure, called the nucleoid, which is maintained by several nucleoid associated proteins(NAPs). Here we present an application of a previously developed Hi-C based computational method to study the effects of some of these proteins on theE. colichromosome. Simulations with encoded Hi-C data for mutant, hupAB deficient,E. colicells, revealed a decondensed, axially expanded chromosome with enhanced short range and diminished long range interactions. Simulations for mutant cells deficient in FIS protein revealed that the effects are similar to that of the hupAB mutant, but the absence of FIS led to a greater disruption in chromosome organization. Absence of another NAP, MatP, known to mediate Ter macrodomain isolation, led to enhanced contacts between Ter and its flanking macrodomains but lacked any change in matS sites’ localization. Deficiency of MukBEF, the only SMC complex present inE. coli, led to disorganization of macrodomains. Upon further analysis, it was observed that the above mutations do not significantly impact the local chromosome organization (~ 100 Kb) but only affect the chromosome on a larger scale (>100 Kb). These observations shed more light on the sparsely explored effects of NAPs on the overall chromosome organization and helps us understand the myriad complex interactions NAPs have with the chromosome.
Interrogation of SLFN11 in pediatric sarcomas uncovers an unexpected biological role and a novel therapeutic approach to overcoming resistance to replicative stress
Authors: Gartrell Jessica , Mellado-Largarde Marcia , Martinez Nancy E. , Clay Michael R. , Bahrami Armita , Sahr Natasha , Sykes April , Blankenship Kaley , Hoffmann Lauren , Xie Jia , Plumley Hyekyung , Twarog Nathaniel , Connelly Michele , Yan Koon-Kiu , Yu Jiyang , Porter Shaina N. , Pruett-Miller Shondra M. , Neale Geoffrey , Tinkle Christopher L. , Federico Sara M. , Stewart Elizabeth A. , Shelat Anang A. 
Published: November 2020

AbstractPediatric sarcomas represent a heterogeneous group of malignancies that exhibit variable response to DNA damaging chemotherapy. Schlafen family member 11 protein (SLFN11) increases sensitivity to replicative stress, andSLFN11gene silencing has been implicated as a common mechanism of drug resistance in tumors in adults. We found SLFN11 to be widely expressed in our cohort of pediatric sarcomas. In sarcoma cell lines, protein expression strongly correlated with response to the PARP inhibitor talazoparib (TAL) and the topoisomerase I inhibitor irinotecan (IRN), with SLFN11 knockout resulting in significant loss of sensitivityin vitroandin vivo.However, SLFN11 expression was not associated with favorable outcomes in a retrospective analysis of our patient cohort; instead, the protein was retained and promoted tumor growth and evasion. Furthermore, we show that pediatric sarcomas develop resistance to TAL and IRN through impaired intrinsic apoptosis, and that resistance can be reversed by selective inhibition of BCL-XL.Statement of SignificanceThe role of SLFN11 in pediatric sarcomas has not been thoroughly explored. In contrast to its activity in adult tumors, SLFN11 did not predict favorable outcomes in pediatric patients, was not silenced, and promoted tumor growth. Resistance to replicative stress in SLFN11-expressing sarcomas was reversed by selective inhibition of BCL-XL.
Effective implementation of a food safety management system and its relationship with business motivations
Authors: Rincon-Ballesteros Lucia , Lannelongue Gustavo , González-Benito Javier 
Published: November 2020

PurposeA food safety management system (FSMS) is a dynamic resource with the potential to generate competitive advantages, whose implementation may be certified according to internationally recognised standards such as the Brand Reputation Compliance Global Standards (BRCGS). This research sets out to discover why companies implement these systems and the influence each one of them exerts.Design/methodology/approachData have been gathered via a questionnaire administered in Spanish-speaking countries on both sides of the Atlantic, compiling a sample of 574 companies certified to BRCGS. The hypotheses formulated were verified by structural equation modelling.FindingsThe analysis reveals a four-dimensional motivational structure (ethics, efficiency, commercial and legitimacy) and three dimensions for the implementation of the FSMS (food safety management, analysis of hazards and control points and best practices). Motivations of an ethical and commercial nature have a positive effect on the degree of effective implementation, while those based on the search for legitimacy reveal a negative relationship.Originality/valueWhile most of the studies on the implementation of management systems are based on a dichotomous measurement of this process (companies with a management system compared to those without one, or companies certified according to a standard compared to those that are not), this study uses a continuous variable of the degree of effective implementation of the system's different dimensions or components. Little has so far been reported about why companies implement an FSMS, and here we not only identify their reasons but also assess those dimensions with the greatest impact.
Campaigning for sustainable food: sustainably certified consumer communities
Authors: Discetti Roberta 
Published: November 2020

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between consumer movements and sustainability certification bodies in the development of food-related consumer campaigns.Design/methodology/approachThis paper adopts a longitudinal approach to the study of an empirical case, the Fairtrade Towns (FTT) movement in the UK. It combines netnographic analysis on the FTT’s online forum with interviews with members of the community and of the certification body coordinating the movement.FindingsThe author conceptualises Sustainably Certified Consumer Communities (SCCC) as a distinct sub-group of consumer movements whose identity coalesces around a sustainable certification and that mobilises supporters with the purpose of promoting social change through the marketplace. The longitudinal approach allows the identification of definitional elements, main practices and unresolved tensions of this concept.Originality/valueResearch addressing the social movement dimension of contemporary food-related sustainability certification is limited. The present study advances consumer research through the conceptualisation of SCCC and contributes to a new understanding of the political roles that market-oriented certification bodies can play in consumer activism. From a managerial perspective, it provides valuable insights into practitioners interested in fostering community engagement.
Enhancing dynamic capabilities to improve sustainable competitiveness: insights from research on organisations of the Baltic region
Authors: Karman Agnieszka , Savanevičienė Asta 
Published: November 2020

PurposeThe research is aimed at elaborating a model in which dynamic capabilities affect sustainable competitiveness via organisational sustainability practices and the mediating role of organisational ambidexterity.Design/methodology/approachEmphasising the need for business sustainability in the face of technological breakthroughs, resource depletion and increasing expectations of stakeholders, it is necessary to reflect on a long-term organisational resilience that would enable sustainable competitiveness through dynamic capabilities. Hence, the paper provides insights on how an organisation can sustain its competitiveness by constantly balancing between the need for continuous improvement due to the pressure in economic, social and ecological environment, and the pursuit of continuous improvement of performance. The authors used structural equation modelling on data collected via a survey of 455 organisations from the Baltic region.FindingsThe results confirm the relationships between sensing and reconfiguring capabilities and sustainability practices, but reject them for scanning capabilities. They also confirm the impact of sustainability practices on some of the pillars of sustainable competitiveness. The research disclosed that ambidexterity was a mediator between dynamic capabilities and sustainable competitiveness.Originality/valueThe paper discloses the link between dynamic capabilities and sustainable competitive advantage by identifying the main characteristics of the constructs and revealing the linkage between them.
Fiery phoenix PLC – entrepreneurial survival in Zambia
Authors: Natasha Katuta Mwila 
Published: November 2020

Learning outcomes
The learning outcomes are as follows: students should be able to provide definitions for ethical dilemmas; students should be able to identify ethical dilemmas in a real business context; and students should be able to determine the outcomes of applying given decision-making models to a specific scenario.

Case overview/synopsis
The aim of this study is to demonstrate the complexity of ethical decision-making in start-up enterprises in emerging markets. The study draws on two well-known decision-making models to illustrate how their application in this context may lead to conflicting outcomes. The study data was collected through reflective entries provided by the business proprietor. These were followed up by three in-depth interviews. The data was supported by analysis of company documents provided by the case. The study demonstrates the crucible moments in entrepreneurial startups that give rise to ethical questions and the need for decision making. It demonstrates the complexity of ethical decision making in emerging contexts. The study business elected to maintain anonymity for commercial protection. This limits the scope of information that may be divulged. The study and the accompanying teaching note provide context for how to apply decision-making frameworks to real business dilemmas. This study contributes to scholarly work on teaching business ethics to undergraduate students.

Complexity academic level
Final Year Undergraduate.

Supplementary materials
Teaching Notes are available for educators only.

Subject code
CSS 3: Entrepreneurship.
Punjabi Jutti: the case of a missing brand
Authors: Pandey Mithilesh , Poonia Rajesh 
Published: November 2020

Learning outcomes
The learning outcomes are as follows: to familiarize students with the concept of segmentation, targeting and positioning; to make students understand the need and process of building a brand; to help students to identify the market gap and meet customer’s requirement by delivering the right value proposition; and to examine the feasibility of business opportunity, develop a business plan and run a successful firm.

Case overview/synopsis
This case is about the quest of three MBA students who accidentally get into argument about footwear brands. This argument leads them to Punjabi ethnic footwear popularly known as “Punjabi Jutti.” They decide to understand the background of “Punjabi Jutti” and the possibility of developing a brand for the same. An extensive research was carried out through the various online and offline platforms. The research included searching through the existing literature, collecting data from the various online platforms such as e-commerce websites and interviews from the field. The research revealed that this traditional artwork is an unorganized sector. The manufacturers and marketers are two main parts of this business. However, the mainstay of the business is the skilled labors who know the art of making “Punjabi Jutti.” This art has been inherited by them from their previous generations. Also, it was found that there was good demand of the “Punjabi Jutti” in India and it was exported to various countries as well. Customers had a mix response toward these products. This extensive research has now put these students in a dilemma as to what should be the next step. Should they step into this business by creating their own brand? Will this entrepreneurship venture be sustainable? If they created a brand for the “Punjabi Jutti” then what kind of brand it would be?

Complexity academic level
Post graduate, entrepreneurs.

Supplementary materials
Teaching Notes are available for educators only.

Subject code
CSS 3: Entrepreneurship.
Breaking out of your comfort zone: an archival research on epistemology in inclusive education pedagogy for Industry 4.0
Authors: Khandelwal Rahul , Kolte Ashutosh , Pawar Prafulla , Martini Elvira 
Published: November 2020

PurposeAs skills need to be changed in a dynamic learning environment, employability depends not just on what people already know but on how well they learn, apply and adapt breaking out their comfort zone. This study explores how students from all backgrounds and teachers can engage with inclusive education without discrimination through pedagogy. The research provides a platform through implication for other international readers of developing countries to implement pedagogies of the Indian context.Design/methodology/approachThis archival research focuses on the topical literature to scrutinize efficient ways to elevate the realization of all learners in inclusive settings. What inclusive pedagogy teaching approaches, focusing on the key competences and sustains learning which are effectual in elevating the academic success of all novices.FindingsEducators need to develop their skills and competency by breaking their comfort zone, and individual recital of every faculty affiliate is a decisive feature in accomplishing quality for inclusive education. An education institution also needs to provide passable facilities to academicians and students in order to adapt and utilize technology efficiently without any discrimination. This is an important method of assisting educators to recognize and investigate using this epistemology in new innovative inclusive teaching pedagogy with technologies in industry 4.0.Research limitations/implicationsThe study momentarily suggests an innovative pedagogy approach for stakeholders and users to be adapted in current digital arena.Originality/valueReview of the concepts can provide valuable pointers for policy makers in other jurisdictions contemplating inclusive education. The issues that are dealt with relate to how all students with and without disability can be engaged in a classroom without discrimination, and development is incentivized using Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in teaching pedagogy.
CSR disclosures and profit persistence: evidence from India
Authors: Jaisinghani Dinesh , Sekhon Amritjot Kaur 
Published: November 2020

PurposeThe purpose of the present study is to analyze the impact of corporate social responsibility (CSR) disclosures on firms' profitability and its persistence.Design/methodology/approachThe study has been conducted for listed firms operating in India from 2008 to 2017. Content analysis has been utilized to estimate the CSR disclosures score. Further, dynamic panel regression has been utilized to estimate the relationship between CSR disclosures and profit persistence.FindingsThe results confirm positive profit persistence for Indian companies. The results further show that different dimensions of CSR disclosure have differential impact on firms' profitability. CSR dimensions concerning total community development and product-related disclosures have a positive relationship, whereas dimensions related to environmental and customer-related disclosures have a negative relationship with financial performance. The results also indicate that CSR disclosures are significantly related to profit persistence.Originality/valueThe study is first of its kind that analyzes the impact of CSR disclosure on profit persistence for Indian companies. The results can provide useful implications for managers and regulators in terms of formulation of overall CSR policies.