bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The effect of off-balance sheet activities on credit risk of African banks
Authors: Keffala Mohamed Rochdi 
Published: May 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this study is to analyze the effect of off-balance sheet activities on the credit risk of African banks.

Design/methodology/approach
The theory about the relationship between off-balance sheet activities and bank risk was used to construct a conceptual model of the effect of off-balance sheet on credit risk in an African context. The accounting approach is chosen by collecting accounting data extracted from the annual reports of 24 private and conventional African banks during the period 2010–2019. Both statistical and empirical studies are conducted. The statistical study aims to give a description of sample banks in terms of off-balance sheet activities and key financial indicators. The empirical study has the goal of exploring the correlations between, on the one hand, credit risk and, on the other hand, off-balance sheet ratio and control variables (bank- and country-specific variables). This study is based on dynamic panels using the two-step generalized method of moments technique to estimate regressions between credit risk and the explanatory variables.

Findings
The statistical study reveals that sample banks use moderately off-balance sheet activities; most of them use essentially guarantees and letters of credit, have satisfactory financial indicators and are slightly exposed to credit risk. The empirical results from the two-step generalized method of moments technique disclose that off-balance sheet activities have an intensifying effect on the credit risk of African banks. However, the increasing effect can be minimized when African banks use moderately off-balance sheet activities.

Practical implications
Using judiciously off-balance sheet activities does not exacerbate the exposure of African banks to credit risk. Therefore, managers of African banks are recommended to maintain a moderate level of off-balance sheet activities, especially guarantees and letters of credit.

Originality/value
The findings of this study eliminate the opacity about the effect of off-balance sheet activities on credit risk. Moreover, this study fulfills the huge gap in the related literature by completing the scarcity of recent studies, considering all items of the off-balance sheet, focusing on the African context, describing off-balance sheet activities and financial indicators of sample banks due to a statistical study and estimating regressions of dynamic panels between credit risk and both bank-specific and country-specific variables due to a two-step generalized method of moments technique.
Mapping research on knowledge management in family firms: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Capolupo Paolo 
Published: May 2024

Purpose
Given the growing interest in the topic of knowledge management (KM) in family firms (FFs) and the subsequent increasing number of papers published, this study aims to review the field to identify and analyze the main themes and trends.

Design/methodology/approach
This study applies bibliometric techniques to a sample of 146 papers published from 2007 to 2023 and their 8,126 unique cited references. Bibliometric coupling is performed on the sample papers to explore the current intellectual structure of the field of KM in FFs, whereas cocitations analysis is performed to investigate the different literature streams that served as roots for the development of such a field.

Findings
Bibliographic coupling reveals that sample papers can be grouped into four clusters, and, through papers content analysis, the author identifies their core themes as knowledge sharing, innovation, knowledge-based dynamic capabilities and intellectual capital. Cocitation analysis of the cited references revealed four main clusters that can be considered the literature streams that served as roots for the development of the field, i.e. knowledge-based view, socioemotional wealth, strategic management and social capital (as a theory and as a resource).

Originality/value
This study contributes to the literature on KM in FFs by extending prior systematic review efforts with bibliometric analyses and combining these results to highlight connections between the main research themes around which scholars have debated (i.e. the clusters identified through bibliometric coupling) and their theoretical foundations (i.e. the clusters identified through cocitation analysis). This study also has practical implications by synthesizing and informing managers about FFs’ advantages and weaknesses in the KM process.
Curating future leaders: a literature review on managerial curriculum in learning organizations
Authors: Asfahani Ahmed 
Published: May 2024

Purpose
This study aims to analyze the evolution and current state of talent management in learning organizations and the design of managerial curricula, highlighting the challenges and opportunities in the context of a rapidly changing global business environment.

Design/methodology/approach
A narrative literature review was conducted, tracing the conceptual evolution of learning organizations. Seminal works emphasizing continuous learning and transformation were highlighted, and the progression of managerial education was analyzed, from its early focus on ethics and soft skills to its current emphasis on sustainability, digital literacy and experiential learning.

Findings
The research reveals challenges in balancing foundational knowledge with emerging competencies in curriculum design. Tensions are evident in maintaining relevance in rapidly changing, globally interconnected environments. Notable limitations include the trade-offs in innovation and the need to cater to diverse student demographics.

Originality/value
This review uniquely synthesizes developments at the intersection of curriculum innovation, organizational learning and curriculum design, offering valuable insights for institutions aiming to nurture talent for modern learning organizations.
Comprehensive strategies for controlling Listeria monocytogenes biofilms on food‐contact surfaces
Authors: Hua Zi , Zhu Mei‐Jun 
Published: May 2024

AbstractListeria monocytogenes biofilms formed on food‐contact surfaces within food‐processing facilities pose a significant challenge, serving as persistent sources of cross‐contamination. In this review, we examined documented cases of foodborne outbreaks and recalls linked to L. monocytogenes contamination on equipment surfaces and in the food production environment, provided an overview of the prevalence and persistence of L. monocytogenes in different food‐processing facilities, and discussed environmental factors influencing its biofilm formation. We further delved into antimicrobial interventions, such as chemical sanitizers, thermal treatments, biological control, physical treatment, and other approaches for controlling L. monocytogenes biofilms on food‐contact surfaces. This review provides valuable insights into the persistent challenge of L. monocytogenes biofilms in food processing, offering a foundation for future research and practical strategies to enhance food safety.
Valorization applications of pineapple and papaya byproducts in food industry
Authors: Oliver‐Simancas Rodrigo , Labrador‐Fernández Lara , Abellán‐Diéguez Carlos , García‐Villegas Abigail , Del Caro Alessandra , Leyva‐Jimenez Francisco Javier , Alañón M. Elena 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe recent increase in the harvesting and industrial processing of tropical fruits such as pineapple and papaya is leading to unavoidable amounts of byproducts rich in valuable compounds. Given the significance of the chemical composition of these byproducts, new research avenues are opening up to exploit them in the food industry. In this sense, the revalorization of pineapple and papaya byproducts is an emerging trend that is encouraging the full harnessing of these tropical fruits, offering the opportunity for developing innovative value‐added products. Therefore, the main aim of this review is to provide an overview of the state of the art of the current valorization applications of pineapple and papaya byproducts in the field of food industry. For that proposal, comprehensive research of valorization applications developed in the last years has been conducted using scientific databases, databases, digital libraries, and scientific search engines. The latest valorization applications of pineapple and papaya byproducts in the food industry have been systematically revised and gathered with the objective of synthesizing and critically analyzing existing scientific literature in order to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field of tropical byproduct revalorization providing a solid foundation for further research and highlighting scientific gaps and new challenges that should be addressed in the future.
A review on fermented vegetables: Microbial community and potential upgrading strategy via inoculated fermentation
Authors: Xu Jinge , Peng Sijia , Xiong Yandi , Zheng Zhuoqi , Liu Meng , Xu Jiayue , Chen Wei , Liu Mengsong , Kong Jiaqi , Wang Chenyu , Wang Yongtao , Rao Lei , Zhao Liang , Liao Xiaojun 
Published: May 2024

AbstractFermentation is a traditional method utilized for vegetable preservation, with microorganisms playing a crucial role in the process. Nowadays, traditional spontaneous fermentation methods are widely employed, which excessively depend on the microorganisms attached to the surface of raw materials, resulting in great difficulties in ideal control over the fermentation process. To achieve standardized production and improve product quality, it is essential to promote inoculated fermentation. In this way, starter cultures can dominate the fermentation processes successfully. Unfortunately, inoculated fermentation has not been thoroughly studied and applied. Therefore, this paper provides a systematic review of the potential upgrading strategy of vegetable fermentation technology. First, we disclose the microbial community structures and succession rules in some typical spontaneously fermented vegetables to comprehend the microbial fermentation processes well. Then, internal and external factors affecting microorganisms are explored to provide references for the selection of fermented materials and conditions. Besides, we widely summarize the potential starter candidates with various characteristics isolated from spontaneously fermented products. Subsequently, we exhibited the inoculated fermentation strategies with those isolations. To optimize the product quality, not only lactic acid bacteria that lead the fermentation, but also yeasts that contribute to aroma formation should be combined for inoculation. The inoculation order of the starter cultures also affects the microbial fermentation. It is equally important to choose a proper processing method to guarantee the activity and convenience of starter cultures. Only in this way can we achieve the transition from traditional spontaneous fermentation to modern inoculated fermentation.
Mycotoxin contamination in organic and conventional cereal grain and products: A systematic literature review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Juan , Sufar Enas Khalid , Bernhoft Aksel , Seal Chris , Rempelos Leonidas , Hasanaliyeva Gultekin , Zhao Bingqiang , Iversen Per Ole , Baranski Marcin , Volakakis Nikolaos , Leifert Carlo 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThere is still considerable controversy about the relative risk of mycotoxin exposure associated with the consumption of organic and conventional cereals. Using validated protocols, we carried out a systematic literature review and meta‐analyses of data on the incidence and concentrations of mycotoxins produced by Fusarium, Claviceps, Penicillium, and Aspergillus species in organic and conventional cereal grains/products. The standard weighted meta‐analysis of concentration data detected a significant effect of production system (organic vs. conventional) only for the Fusarium mycotoxins deoxynivalenol, with concentrations ∼50% higher in conventional than organic cereal grains/products (p < 0.0001). Weighted meta‐analyses of incidence data and unweighted meta‐analyses of concentration data also detected small, but significant effects of production system on the incidence and/or concentrations of T‐2/HT‐2 toxins, zearalenone, enniatin, beauvericin, ochratoxin A (OTA), and aflatoxins. Multilevel meta‐analyses identified climatic conditions, cereal species, study type, and analytical methods used as important confounding factors for the effects of production system. Overall, results from this study suggest that (i) Fusarium mycotoxin contamination decreased between the 1990s and 2020, (ii) contamination levels are similar in organic and conventional cereals used for human consumption, and (iii) maintaining OTA concentrations below the maximum contamination levels (3.0 μg/kg) set by the EU remains a major challenge.
Improving the microbiological safety and quality of aquatic products using nonthermal processing
Authors: Xie Yuan , Zhang Jie , Zhang Pingping , Regenstein Joe M. , Liu Dasong , Zhou Peng 
Published: May 2024

AbstractSpoilage and deterioration of aquatic products during storage are inevitable, posing significant challenges to their suitability for consumption and the sustainability of the aquatic products supply chain. Research on the nonthermal processing of fruit juices, probiotics, dairy products, and meat has demonstrated positive outcomes in preserving quality. This review examines specific spoilage bacteria species and mechanisms for various aquatic products and discusses the principles, characteristics, and applications of six nonthermal processing methods for bacterial inhibition to maintain microbiological safety and physicochemical quality. The primary spoilage bacteria groups differ among fish, crustaceans, and shellfish based on storage conditions and durations. Four metabolic pathways utilized by spoilage microorganisms—peptides and amino acids, nitrogen compounds, nucleotides, and carbohydrates—are crucial in explaining spoilage. Nonthermal processing techniques, such as ultrahigh pressure, irradiation, magnetic/electric fields, plasma, and ultrasound, can inactivate microorganisms, thereby enhancing microbiological safety, physicochemical quality, and shelf life. Future research may integrate nonthermal processing with other technologies (e.g., modified atmosphere packaging and omics) to elucidate mechanisms of spoilage and improve the storage quality of aquatic products.
The association between multiple trajectories of macronutrient intake and the risk of new‐onset diabetes in Chinese adults
Authors: Wang Sizhe , Ruirui Guo , Li Xiaotong , Wang Fengdan , Wu Zibo , Liu Yan , Dong Yibo , Li Bo 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackgroundThe association between macronutrient intake and diabetes is unclear. We used data from the China Health and Nutrition Survey to explore the association between macronutrient intake trajectories and diabetes risk in this study.MethodsWe included 6755 participants who did not have diabetes at baseline and participated in at least three surveys. The energy supply ratio of carbohydrate, protein, and fat was further calculated from dietary data; different macronutrient trajectories were determined using multitrajectory models; and multiple Cox regression models were used to evaluate the association between these trajectories and diabetes.ResultsWe found three multitrajectories: decreased low carbohydrate‐increased moderate protein‐increased high fat (DLC‐IMP‐IHF), decreased high carbohydrate‐moderate protein‐increased low fat (DHC‐MP‐ILF), and balanced‐macronutrients (BM). Compared to the BM trajectory, DHC‐MP‐ILF trajectories were significantly associated with increased risk of diabetes (hazard ratio [HR]: 3.228, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.571–6.632), whereas no association between DLC‐IMP‐IHF trajectories and diabetes was found in our study (HR: 0.699, 95% CI: 0.351–1.392).ConclusionsThe downward trend of high carbohydrate and the increasing trend of low fat increased the risk of diabetes in Chinese adults.image
Association between colchicine use and the risk of dementia among patients with gout: A nationwide retrospective cohort study
Authors: Chen Pei‐Yun , Tseng Chu‐Chiao , Lee Yi‐Ting , Yip Hei‐Tung , Chang Renin , Wei James Cheng‐Chung 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackgroundRecent findings suggest a link between gout and the development of dementia. Early treatment with colchicine is recommended as a first‐line therapy for gout flares. Animal studies demonstrate that colchicine could induce cognitive impairment. This cohort study aimed to investigate the association between colchicine use and the risk of developing dementia.MethodsIn this nationwide cohort study, we performed comparative analysis on 6147 patients ≥40 years, with gout and colchicine new users against 6147 controls to assess subsequent dementia risk. The colchicine group and the control group (urate lowering therapy group) were matched on the bases of age, sex, index year, and comorbidities. All participants were followed for up to 14 years for a diagnosis of dementia considering medical records were retrospectively checked over this period. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Sensitivity analyses were performed to validate our findings.ResultsThe adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) of dementia for colchicine users was 1.45 (95% CI = 1.05, 1.99) relative to comparison group after adjusting for sex, age, and comorbidities. Sensitivity analysis aiming to minimize underdiagnosed occult dementia at the time of index year yielded consistent positive association. In higher accumulative dose colchicine group (cumulative defined daily dose [cDDD] >30), the aHR of dementia risk for colchicine users was 1.42 (95% CI = 1.03, 1.97) compared with nonusers. For those duration of colchicine use >30 days, the aHR was 1.53 (95% CI = 1.01–2.32) compared to the nonuser group.ConclusionsA significant risk of dementia was observed in this study in patients with gout using colchicine at higher cDDD and for a longer period. Further research is needed to elucidate the relationship between colchicine, gout, and dementia.
Communityself‐protection, public authority and the safety of strangers in Bor and Ler, South Sudan
Authors: Kirk Tom , Pendle Naomi , Akoi Abraham Diing 
Published: May 2024

AbstractProtection is not simply something done or delivered to people by states, humanitarian organisations and armed peacekeepers. Instead, a growing literature has begun to examine the self‐protection strategies of people and communities in protracted violent crises. Its authors suggest that nuanced understandings of how people retain a measure of agency in the face of violence is an important first step for those seeking to reduce their levels of threat and vulnerability. We use interview data from communities in Bor and Ler, South Sudan, long affected by conflict, to show how attention to the relationship between public authority and the safety of strangers can reveal the skills, resources and conditions under which protection is successfully provided. This also helps to re‐root ‘protection’ in local vernaculars that more closely resemble its everyday use among South Sudanese and offers entry points for humanitarian interventions with more realistic prospects of positive outcomes for communities sceptical of humanitarians' broken promises to protect.
Complete blood count, coagulation biomarkers, and lung function 6 months after critical COVID‐19
Authors: Kattainen Salla , Pitkänen Hanna , Reijula Jere , Hästbacka Johanna 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackgroundUnderstanding the recovery of post‐COVID‐19 organ dysfunction is essential.We evaluated coagulation 6 months post‐COVID‐19, examining its recovery and association with lung function.MethodsPatients treated for COVID‐19 at intensive care units between 3/2020 and 1/2021 were analyzed for complete blood count (CBC) and coagulation biomarkers (prothrombin time activity (%) (PT%), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), fibrinogen, coagulation factor VIII (FVIII), antithrombin (AT), and D‐dimer) during the 6 months post‐hospitalization. Results were compared with acute phase values and correlated with pulmonary function tests (PFT), including forced vital capacity (FVC) and hemoglobin‐corrected diffusing capacity percentage of predicted (DLCOc%), recorded 6 months post‐hospitalization. We examined the association between coagulation biomarkers and DLCOc% using linear regression with age, sex, and invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) duration, and FVIII (correlated with DLCOc%) as covariates.ResultsMost CBCs and coagulation biomarkers had median values within the normal range. However, only 21% (15/70) of patients achieved full normalization of all biomarkers. Compared to acute COVID‐19, hemoglobin, PT%, and AT increased, while leukocytes, fibrinogen, FVIII, and D‐dimer decreased. Despite decreased levels, FVIII remained elevated in 46% (31/68), leukocytes in 26% (18/70), and D‐dimer in 27% (18/67) at 6 months. A weak negative correlation (r = −0.37, p = .036) was found between DLCOc% and FVIII. Multivariable analysis revealed a weak, independent association between DLCOc% and FVIII. Excluding patients with anticoagulation therapy, FVIII no longer correlated with DLCOc%, while AT showed a moderate correlation with DLCOc%.ConclusionOnly a few patients had normal CBC and coagulation biomarker values 6 months after critical COVID‐19. A weak negative correlation between DLCOc% and FVIII suggests that deranged coagulation activity may be associated with reduced diffusing capacity.
Selective sweep analysis of the adaptability of the Yarkand hare (Lepus yarkandensis) to hot arid environments using SLAF‐seq
Authors: Li Zurui , Fang Bingwa , Dong Pengcheng , Shan Wenjuan 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe Yarkand hare (Lepus yarkandensis) inhabits arid desert areas and is endemic to China. It has evolved various adaptations to survive in hot arid environments, including stress responses, the ability to maintain water homeostasis and heat tolerance. Here, we performed a selective sweep analysis to identify the candidate genes for adaptation to hot arid environments in the Yarkand hare. A total of 397 237 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms were obtained from 80 Yarkand hares, which inhabit hot arid environments, and 36 Tolai hares (Lepus tolai), which inhabit environments with a mild climate, via specific‐locus amplified fragment sequencing. We identified several candidate genes that were associated with the heat stress response (HSPE1), oxidative stress response (SLC23A and GLRX2), immune response (IL1R1 and IRG1), central nervous system development (FGF13, THOC2, FMR1 and MECP2) and regulation of water homeostasis (CDK1) according to fixation index values and θπ ratios in the selective sweep analysis, and six of these genes (GLRX2, IRG1, FGF13, FMR1, MECP2 and CDK1) are newly discovered genes. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to identify candidate genes for adaptation to hot arid environments in the Yarkand hare. The results of this study enhance our understanding of the adaptation of the Yarkand hare to hot arid environments and will aid future studies aiming to functionally verify these candidate genes.