bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A reduced-order Jacobi spectral collocation method for solving the space-fractional FitzHugh–Nagumo models with application in myocardium
Authors: Abbaszadeh Mostafa , Bagheri Salec AliReza , Kamel Abd Al-Khafaji Shurooq 
Published: November 2023

PurposeThe space fractional PDEs (SFPDEs) play an important role in the fractional calculus field. Proposing a high-order, stable and flexible numerical procedure for solving SFPDEs is the main aim of most researchers. This paper devotes to developing a novel spectral algorithm to solve the FitzHugh–Nagumo models with space fractional derivatives.Design/methodology/approachThe fractional derivative is defined based upon the Riesz derivative. First, a second-order finite difference formulation is used to approximate the time derivative. Then, the Jacobi spectral collocation method is employed to discrete the spatial variables. On the other hand, authors assume that the approximate solution is a linear combination of special polynomials which are obtained from the Jacobi polynomials, and also there exists Riesz fractional derivative based on the Jacobi polynomials. Also, a reduced order plan, such as proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) method, has been utilized.FindingsA fast high-order numerical method to decrease the elapsed CPU time has been constructed for solving systems of space fractional PDEs.Originality/valueThe spectral collocation method is combined with the POD idea to solve the system of space-fractional PDEs. The numerical results are acceptable and efficient for the main mathematical model.
Oh, the stories we could tell: a conceptual model for building shared entrepreneurial narratives
Authors: Fleck Emma , Pishko Joanna , Verhoeven Betsy 
Published: November 2023

PurposePrior research has drawn from entrepreneurial practice to conceptualize a variety of discreet narrative types. Research has also demonstrated that narratives are a practical and useful tool for entrepreneurs in many stages of the entrepreneurial process. This paper proposes a new narrative, shared narrative, and a conceptual model for how entrepreneurs might build such a narrative that is strategic in nature.Design/methodology/approachFirst, the authors review the types of narrative and introduce shared narrative as an account that narrativizes both the entrepreneur and relevant stakeholders. Then, integrating theoretical concepts from constitutive rhetoric and value co-creation, the authors introduce a conceptual framework as a three-stage process guide for entrepreneurs to build shared narratives for strategic stakeholder engagement. Leveraging the power of shared roles and salient values as the key to pre-story building process, the intended audience of the story (i.e. consumer, investor) is present from the inception of the story and integral to its success.FindingsThe authors assert that entrepreneurs need to adopt a shared narrative approach for strategic purposes. Further, the development of a shared narrative begins at the pre-story process of co-creation, focused on identifying the roles and values entrepreneurs share with their various stakeholders. Incorporating these shared roles and salient values into the entrepreneurial narrative will result in a narrative that is compelling, authentic and adaptable to different stages of the entrepreneurial process and for multiple stakeholder audiences. Post-story, this authentic narrative will result in higher levels of engagement from both the audience and the entrepreneur in the form of reciprocal action.Originality/valueThis paper proposes a new narrative and provides a structured process to support entrepreneurs in building shared narratives for strategic engagement with a wide range of stakeholders.
Auditor practices and auditee responses to corporate governance audit regulation in Nigeria
Authors: Abdul-Baki Zayyad , Diab Ahmed 
Published: November 2023

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to examine both the responses of auditees to corporate governance audit (CGA) regulation and the practices of CGA auditors.Design/methodology/approachThe study used a mixed method. Content analysis of 200 annual and CGA reports was carried out for 13 years, from 2008 to 2021, split into voluntary disclosure and mandatory disclosure periods. Quantitative analysis was also conducted using Kruskal–Wallis and Dunn's tests. Data gathered were interpreted through the lens of isomorphism and Oliver's (1991) strategic responses to institutional processes.FindingsThe study revealed that in the voluntary disclosure period, auditees responded mainly with acquiescence, motivated by mimetic isomorphic pressure. In the mandatory disclosure period, auditee responses ranged from acquiescence to dismissal of corporate governance regulation (i.e. coercive isomorphic pressure). Auditor reporting of CGA findings was found to be heterogeneous, suggesting that normative and mimetic isomorphism did not homogenize auditor practices.Practical implicationsThe absence of uniform auditee responses to CGA regulation during the mandatory disclosure period suggests that the purpose of mandating the regulation has not yet been achieved and may signal inadequate coercive isomorphic pressure from the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRCN). Similarly, heterogeneous reporting of CGA findings by corporate governance auditors inhibits the comparability of audit findings, limiting their value for information users.Originality/valueThis study examines corporate governance auditor practices and auditee responses to corporate governance audit regulation.
Environmentally friendly practices in Macau hotels before and after the COVID-19 pandemic: hotel executives' perspectives
Authors: Adongo Raymond , Choe Ja Young (Jacey) , Sulemana Sadia Shine 
Published: November 2023

PurposeThis study seeks to examine motivations, challenges and strategies implemented to sustain environmentally friendly practices in Macau hotels and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on such practices.Design/methodology/approachExecutives in sustainability departments of hotels in Macau were purposefully targeted for the in-depth interviews. Ten executives were interviewed either face-to-face or via video call.FindingsThe findings revealed that hotels in Macau implement sustainable practices. The main motivation for their implementation was the need to protect the environment, compliance and business-driven reasons. The major challenge involved the implementation costs. The pandemic had a limited impact on the implementation of these practices.Practical implicationsThe study recommends that the Macau government should establish clear environmental policies and regulations for hotels with guidelines and support systems. Hotels can also benchmark their performance and collaborate on sustainable practices, develop innovative financing mechanisms and cost-efficient waste recycling practices, organize customer education and engagement programs to promote environmentally friendly practices and incorporate crisis management and resilience strategies into environmental strategies.Originality/valueThe current study denotes that the “sustainable development” concept is crucial in Macau because the largely gaming-driven hospitality industry has been developed over the last decade, significantly impacting environmental degradation. This study examined how hotels respond to these environmental challenges and how their responses can be sustained in the long term. The authors suggest the environmental practice indicators that can be helpful for the hospitality industries in Macau. Social and economic implications are discussed based on the findings.
Microcharity: a promising alternative to microcredit for poverty alleviation
Authors: Hasan Mehedi , Afrin Tania , Misra Vandna 
Published: November 2023

PurposeMicrocharity is a non-profit organization promoting social brotherhood through small donations and volunteer services among diverse members, aiming to address poverty through compassion, cooperation and humanitarianism. The study aims to comprehend the role of microcharity as an alternative to microcredit for poverty alleviation. It sheds light on the modus operandi, prospects and problems associated with microcharity.Design/methodology/approachThe current study used a qualitative research design to investigate a social phenomenon while involving the researchers directly. The study applied participatory action research by involving participants and researchers to comprehend social challenges and evaluate their experiences. The study made considerable use of participant-observer data and field observations.FindingsIt has been revealed that microcharity has potential to address social challenges faced by the marginalized and vulnerable section of society.Research limitations/implicationsThis study is based on participatory action research, and therefore, it suffers from academic standardization and heavily depends on researchers. On the other hand, it offers practical approach to solve social problems and would bring forth realistic resolution by offering insights of those making use of micro charity for philanthropic activities.Practical implicationsThe article is especially helpful for communities that must respond to emergencies and will be beneficial to individuals and institutions working for social welfare.Social implicationsIt will bring forth various facets of micro charity as an alternate for fundraising to rescue sufferers of social exigencies through collective efforts.Originality/valueThe article represents original scholarly research, leveraging the researchers' personal experience to enrich the understanding of microcharity. Its implications are valuable for communities involved in social welfare and can benefit individuals working for charitable institutions, cooperative societies, NGOs and social welfare programmes of government. Additionally, the study's insights can aid researchers in designing new methodologies to explore microcharity and its impact on social welfare initiatives.
Antimicrobial resistance and biotechnological potential of plastic‐associated bacteria isolated from an urban estuary
Authors: Canellas Anna Luiza Bauer , Abdon Beatriz Balthazar , Diniz Matheus Nunes , da Silva Oliveira Alves Gabrielle , de Paula Lourenço Marcos Felipe , Machado Wilson Thadeu Valle , Giambiagi‐deMarval Marcia , de Oliveira Bruno Francesco Rodrigues , Laport Marinella Silva 
Published: November 2023

AbstractPlastics have quickly become one of the major pollutants in aquatic environments worldwide and solving the plastic pollution crisis is considered a central goal of modern society. In this study, 10 different plastic samples, including high‐ and low‐density polyethylene and polypropylene, were collected from a deeply polluted urban estuary in Brazil. By employing different isolation and analysis approaches to investigate plastic‐associated bacteria, a predominance of potentially pathogenic bacteria such as Acinetobacter, Aeromonas, and Vibrio was observed throughout all plastic samples. Bacteria typically found in the aquatic environment harboured clinically relevant genes encoding resistance to carbapenems (blaKPC) and colistin (such as mcr‐3 and mcr‐4), along with genetic determinants associated with potentially active gene mobilization. Whole genome sequencing and annotation of three plastic‐associated Vibrio strains further demonstrated the carriage of mobile genetic elements and antimicrobial resistance and virulence genes. On the other hand, bacteria isolated from the same samples were also able to produce esterases, lipases, and bioemulsifiers, thus highlighting that the plastisphere could also be of special interest from a biotechnological perspective.
Efficacy of baricitinib for the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus patients: A meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Panda Aditya K. , Ranjan Shovit , Sahu Jayanta K. 
Published: November 2023

AbstractBackgroundSystemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by abnormal autoantibody production, inflammation, and organ damage. Most SLE treatment strategies aim to induce remission or reduce disease activity while avoiding flares. Baricitinib has been used effectively to manage various inflammatory diseases, and some randomized controlled trials (RCT) have shown that it is beneficial in treating SLE. The current study aims to assess the efficacy of baricitinib in treating SLE patients.Materials and MethodsVarious databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Science Direct were searched to obtain eligible studies for the present meta‐analysis. Data such as baseline characteristics of patients, doses of the baricitinib, follow‐up duration, and treatment outcome in the form of SLE responder index‐4 (SRI‐4) and lupus low disease activity state (LLDAS) were extracted. Combined odds ratio, 95% confidence interval, and probability values were calculated to study the efficacy of baricitinib in treating SLE patients. A p‐value less than .05 was taken as significant. Comprehensive meta‐analysis v3 was used for all analyses.ResultsThree articles were found eligible for the present meta‐analysis comprising 614 patients with placebo, 614 SLE patients receiving 4 mg, and 621 patients with 2 mg of baricitinib. Meta‐analysis revealed a beneficial effect of 4 mg baricitinib in SLE patients compared to placebo, as measured by an increase in the SRI‐4 (p = .006, OR = 1.370) and LLDAS (p = .083, OR = 1.252) rates. In contrast to the placebo group, however, patients receiving 2 mg of baricitinib exhibited no significant improvement. The trial sequential analysis revealed the need for additional RCTs to determine the role of baricitinib in treating SLE patients.ConclusionIn treating SLE patients, administrating a higher dose of baricitinib (4 mg) may be effective. However, additional RCTs in different populations with larger sample sizes are required to validate our findings.
The etherase system of Novosphingobium sp. MBES04 functions as a sensor of lignin fragments through phenylpropanone production to induce specific transcriptional responses
Authors: Kumagawa Eri , Katsumata Madoka , Nishimura Hiroshi , Watanabe Takashi , Ishii Shun'ichi , Ohta Yukari 
Published: November 2023

AbstractThe MBES04 strain of Novosphingobium accumulates phenylpropanone monomers as end‐products of the etherase system, which specifically and reductively cleaves the β‐O‐4 ether bond (a major bond in lignin molecules). However, it does not utilise phenylpropanone monomers as an energy source. Here, we studied the response to the lignin‐related perturbation to clarify the physiological significance of its etherase system. Transcriptome analysis revealed two gene clusters, each consisting of four tandemly linked genes, specifically induced by a lignin preparation extracted from hardwood (Eucalyptus globulus) and a β‐O‐4‐type lignin model biaryl compound, but not by vanillin. The most strongly induced gene was a 2,4′‐dihydroxyacetophenone dioxygenase‐like protein, which leads to energy production through oxidative degradation. The other cluster was related to multidrug resistance. The former cluster was transcriptionally regulated by a common promoter, where a phenylpropanone monomer acted as one of the effectors responsible for gene induction. These results indicate that the physiological significance of the etherase system of the strain lies in its function as a sensor for lignin fragments. This may be a survival strategy to detect nutrients and gain tolerance to recalcitrant toxic compounds, while the strain preferentially utilises easily degradable aromatic compounds with lower energy demands for catabolism.
Cognitive deficits among people with schizophrenia and prediabetes or diabetes
Authors: John Alexander Panickacheril , Mya Thynn , Haywood Darren 
Published: November 2023

AbstractIntroductionBoth type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and schizophrenia are known to be associated with cognitive deficits. The impact of the comorbidities of T2DM or prediabetes (PD) on cognition among people with schizophrenia has been poorly researched. We evaluated the cognitive functioning of patients with schizophrenia and PD or T2DM and compared them to patients with schizophrenia with normal blood sugar.MethodsWe retrospectively collated data on cognition, fasting blood glucose (FBG), lipids and other selected demographic and clinical variables of 171 patients with schizophrenia and 16 patients with schizoaffective disorder who were admitted to an inpatient rehabilitation facility in Western Australia from 2011 to 2018. The Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia (BACS) was used to evaluate cognitive functioning. Parametric and non‐parametric analyses were used to examine the study's aims.ResultsSixty‐six percent of the patients had normal blood sugar, 25% had PD and 9% had T2DM. The BACS composite score revealed an increasing gradient of cognitive deficits, ranging from mild to severe, between the normal, PD and T2DM groups, respectively. The T2DM group had a significantly lower composite score compared with the PD (p = 0.026) and normal groups (p < 0.001). On the BACS subtests, the scores of T2DM and PD patients were similar except for the token motor task, in which the T2DM group had significantly lower scores (p < 0.001). The T2DM group also had lower scores on the subtests of BACS, except memory tests, compared with those with normal blood sugar. There was no significant difference in the composite and subtest cognitive scores between the PD and normal groups.ConclusionsOur study revealed more pronounced cognitive deficits among patients with schizophrenia and dysglycaemia, particularly those with T2DM, compared with those with schizophrenia with normal blood sugar.
Association of daily steps on lipid and glycaemic profiles in children: The mediator role of cardiorespiratory fitness
Authors: Sequí‐Domínguez Irene , Martínez‐Vizcaíno Vicente , Rodríguez‐Gutiérrez Eva , Bizzozero‐Peroni Bruno , Martinez‐Madrid Vanesa , Prada de Medio Enrique , Martínez‐García Irene , Cavero‐Redondo Ivan 
Published: November 2023

AbstractAimTo analyse, in schoolchildren, the relationship between daily steps with metabolic parameters; and to examine whether this association is mediated by cardiorespiratory‐fitness (CRF).MethodsA cross‐sectional analysis of baseline data from a feasibility trial was performed in children from two primary schools in Cuenca, Spain. Daily steps were measured using the Xiaomi MI Band 3. Lipid and glycaemic profiles were analysed from blood samples. CRF was assessed using the 20‐m shuttle run test. ANCOVA models were used to test the mean differences by daily steps quartiles. Mediation analyses were conducted to examine whether CRF mediates the association between daily steps and lipid and glycaemic parameters.ResultsA total of 159 schoolchildren (aged 9–12 years, 53% female) were included in the analysis. Schoolchildren in the highest daily steps quartiles (>10 000 steps) showed significantly lower triglycerides and insulin levels (p = 0.004 and 0.002, respectively). This association did not remain after controlling for CRF. In mediation analyses, a significant indirect effect was observed through CRF in the relationship between daily steps with triglycerides and insulin.ConclusionChildren who daily accumulate more than 10 000 steps have better lipid and metabolic profile, and CRF mediated their relationship in schoolchildren.
Self‐perceived learning outcomes of virtual and in‐person academic detailing among general practitioners in Norway
Authors: Schjøtt Jan , Steen Ingrid Lunde , Espnes Ketil Arne , Riedel Bettina 
Published: November 2023

AbstractSelf‐perceived learning outcomes of virtual academic detailing (AD) are poorly studied. We compared self‐perceived learning outcomes of virtual and in‐person AD among general practitioners (GPs). GPs from the Western region of Norway received a questionnaire before and after AD concerning rational pharmacotherapy of migraine in the autumn 2022. Five statements addressing specific knowledge and two statements addressing general knowledge and skills in pharmacotherapy of migraine were rated in both questionnaires. A 7‐point Likert scale ranging from 1: Strongly disagree to 7: Strongly agree was applied to all the statements. Histograms that showed the difference in the mean composite scores before and after AD were used to compare learning outcomes of virtual and in‐person AD. Positive self‐perceived learning outcomes were observed among 80%–88% of the GPs. No significant differences between virtual and in‐person AD were observed.
Pay transparency intervention and the gender pay gap: Evidence from research‐intensive universities in the UK
Authors: Gamage Danula K. , Kavetsos Georgios , Mallick Sushanta , Sevilla Almudena 
Published: November 2023

AbstractThis study investigates the impact of a pay transparency intervention in reducing the gender pay gap in the UK university sector. Introduced in 2007, the initiative enabled public access to average annual earnings disaggregated by gender in UK universities. We use a detailed matched employee‐employer administrative dataset that follows individuals over time, allowing us to adopt a quasi‐experimental approach based on event studies around the intervention. We find that the earnings of female academics increased by around 0.62 percentage points compared to their male counterparts as the control group, whose earnings remained constant after the pay transparency intervention, reducing the gender pay gap by 4.37 per cent. Further evidence suggests that the main mechanism for the fall in the pay gap is driven by female employees negotiating higher wages, particularly among senior female academics.
Development of a therapeutic monoclonal antibody against circulating adipocyte fatty acid binding protein to treat ischaemic stroke
Authors: Liao Boya , Yang Shilun , Geng Leiluo , Zong Jiuyu , Zhang Zixuan , Jiang Mengxue , Jiang Xue , Li Simeng , Xu Aimin , Chang Junlei , Hoo Ruby Lai Chong 
Published: November 2023

Background and PurposeAdipocyte fatty acid‐binding protein (A‐FABP) exacerbates cerebral ischaemia injury by disrupting the blood–brain barrier (BBB) through inducing expression of MMP‐9. Circulating A‐FABP levels positively correlate with infarct size in stroke patients. We hypothesized that targeting circulating A‐FABP by a neutralizing antibody would alleviate ischaemic stroke outcome.Experimental ApproachMonoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against A‐FABP were generated using mouse hybridoma techniques. Binding affinities of a generated mAb named 6H2 towards various FABPs were determined using Biacore. Molecular docking studies were performed to characterize the 6H2‐A‐FABP complex structure and epitope. The therapeutic potential and safety of 6H2 were evaluated in mice with transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) and healthy mice, respectively.Key ResultsReplenishment of recombinant A‐FABP exaggerated the stroke outcome in A‐FABP‐deficient mice. 6H2 exhibited nanomolar to picomolar affinities to human and mouse A‐FABP, respectively, with minimal cross‐reactivities with heart and epidermal FABPs. 6H2 effectively neutralized JNK/c‐Jun activation elicited by A‐FABP and reduced MMP‐9 production in macrophages. Molecular docking suggested that 6H2 interacts with the “lid” of the fatty acid binding pocket of A‐FABP, thus likely hindering the binding of its substrates. In mice with transient MCAO, 6H2 significantly attenuated BBB disruption, cerebral oedema, infarction, neurological deficits, and decreased mortality associated with reduced cytokine and MMP‐9 production. Chronic 6H2 treatment showed no obvious adverse effects in healthy mice.Conclusion and ImplicationsThese results establish circulating A‐FABP as a viable therapeutic target for ischaemic stroke, and provide a highly promising antibody drug candidate with high affinity and specificity.