bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Propagating a permanent war economy? U.S. FDI in warring host countries
Authors: Dai Li , Paik Yongsun 
Published: January 2024

Purpose
Conventional wisdom suggests that war in the host country makes it unattractive for foreign firms to invest. To see if this is true for US firms on the aggregate, this paper aims to examine the veracity of a “permanent war economy” hypothesis, that foreign direct investment (FDI) may, in fact, increase in the host country not despite, but because of, war, i.e. one that lends credence to the idea that, in the USA, “defense [has] become one of constant preparation for future wars and foreign interventions rather than an exercise in response to one-off threats.”

Design/methodology/approach
The authors test the hypotheses using Generalized Method of Moments estimation, with Heckman Selection, on US FDI data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis and war data from the Correlates of War2 Project, the Uppsala Conflict Data Program/International Peace Research Institute data set, the International Crisis Behavior Project and the Center for Systemic Peace Major Episodes of Political Violence data set. The final sample consists of 351 country-year observations in 55 host countries from 1982 to 2006.

Findings
The findings indicate that overall US FDI in a host country in a given year decreases if the host country is engaged in wars with multiple countries and if the US Government is involved in the war. Most notably, the results show that US involvement in multiple host country wars is actually correlated with increased US FDI into the host country, providing empirical support for the “permanent war economy” hypothesis.

Originality/value
While other studies have focused on war and FDI, the authors have sought to show the impact of the involvement of arguably the most influential country, i.e. the USA, in the sovereign matters of a focal host country. By studying FDI from the USA as a function of US involvement in wars overseas, over the years with the greatest use of private military companies by the USA and the largest portion of global FDI accounted for by the USA, this work motivates a research agenda on home-host-"other” relations in the context of war and FDI, with the “other” being the supranational “elephant in the room.”
Corporate tax policy, Shariah compliance and financial decisions: evidence from Malaysia
Authors: Ramachandran Jayalakshmy , Hidajat Joan , Izadi Selma , Wei Andrew Saw Tek 
Published: January 2024

PurposeThis study investigates the influence of corporate income tax on two corporate financial decisions — dividend and capital structure policies, particularly for Shariah compliant companies in Malaysia.Design/methodology/approachThe study considered data from a sample of 529 Malaysian listed companies from four industrial sectors from 2007–2021 (6,746 company-year observations, before eliminating outliers). Panel models such as Fixed Effect and Random effect models were used. The study specifically tested the effect of corporate income tax on dividend and capital structure policies for Shariah compliant companies (3,148 observations) and controlled for industrial sectors.Findings(1) Firms are mostly Shariah-compliant, less liquid, less profitable and smaller in size, (2) Broadly when analysed together, tax has no impact on debt-equity ratio while it has an impact on dividend per share, (3) However, when tested separately for Shariah compliant companies, the influence of effective tax on capital structure is very evident but not for dividend and (4) influence of industrial sector on the relationship between corporate tax and capital structure and dividend policy is significant. Results indicate that Shariah firms might be raising debt to gain tax advantage. Companies in general pay dividends to avoid reputational damage.Research limitations/implicationsThis study assumes that leverage and dividend policy decisions are the main outcomes of the changing tax policies, while it seems that there could be other important outcomes that can be tested in future research. The study also shows the changing tax regimes of different ASEAN countries but they have not been tested to see the differences between countries. It will be indeed interesting for future researchers to focus on this aspect.Originality/valueThe findings contribute to the literature on tax planning of the Shariah-compliant firms, a high growth business segment in the Asian context. The study discussed potential tax-based Islamic market product development.
The art of staying in touch – exploring daily feedback interactions between a leader and a subordinate in remote work
Authors: Jansson Linda Johanna , Kangas Hilpi 
Published: January 2024

PurposeThis study aims to widen the understanding of how remote work shapes the feedback environment by examining the perceptions of leaders and subordinates of daily, dyadic feedback interactions. The emphasis is on understanding how reciprocity within leader-member exchange (LMX) relationships manifests and how it influences the feedback dynamics.Design/methodology/approachTemplate analysis of a qualitative data set consisting of 81 semi-structured interviews with leaders (n = 29) and remote working subordinates (n = 52) was performed.FindingsDrawing on the theoretical frameworks of the feedback environment and the leader-member exchange, the findings demonstrate the imbalance between the efforts of leaders and subordinates in building and maintaining a favourable feedback environment in the remote work context. The results of this study highlight the importance of the dyadic nature of feedback interactions, calling for a more proactive role from subordinates.Practical implicationsGiven the estimation that the COVID-19 pandemic has permanently changed the way organizations work, leaders, subordinates and HR practitioners will benefit from advancing their understanding of the characteristics of dyadic, daily feedback interaction in remote work.Originality/valueQualitative research on feedback and leader-member exchange interactions in remote work that combines the perceptions of leaders and subordinates is sparse.
Potential molecular mechanism of reuterin on the inhibition of Aspergillus flavus conidial germination: An in silico study
Authors: Purnawita Widiati , Rahayu Winiati Pudji , Lioe Hanifah Nuryani , Nurjanah Siti , Wahyudi Setyanto Tri 
Published: January 2024

AbstractReuterin is a natural antifungal agent derived from certain strains of Limosilactobacillus reuteri. Our previous study revealed that 6 mM reuterin inhibited completely the conidial germination of aflatoxigenic Aspergillus flavus. This study investigated the potential molecular mechanism of reuterin in inhibiting A. flavus conidial germination, which was pre‐assumed that it correlated to the inhibition of some essential enzyme activity involved in conidial germination, specifically 1,3‐β‐glucan synthase, chitin synthase, and catalases (catalase, bifunctional catalase–peroxidase, and spore‐specific catalase). The complex of 1,3‐β‐glucan synthase and chitin synthase with reuterin had a lower binding affinity than that with the substrate. Conversely, the complex of catalases with reuterin had a higher binding affinity than that with the substrate. It was suggested that 1,3‐β‐glucan synthase and chitin synthase tended to bind the substrate rather than bind reuterin. In contrast, catalases tended to bind reuterin rather than bind the substrate. Therefore, reuterin could be a potential inhibitor of catalases but may not be an inhibitor of 1,3‐β‐glucan synthase and chitin synthase. In this in silico study, we predicted that the potential molecular mechanism of reuterin in inhibiting A. flavus conidial germination was due to the inhibition of catalases activities by competitively binding to the enzymes active sites, thus resulting in the accumulation of reactive oxygen species in cells, leading to cells damage.Practical ApplicationThis in silico study revealed that reuterin is a potential inhibitor of catalases in A. flavus, thereby interfering with the antioxidant system during conidial germination. This finding shows that reuterin can be used as an antifungal agent in food or agricultural products, inhibiting conidial germination completely.
Impacts of plastic‐free materials on coral‐associated bacterial communities during reef restoration
Authors: Strudwick Paige , Camp Emma F. , Seymour Justin , Roper Christine , Edmondson John , Howlett Lorna , Suggett David J. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractCoral propagation and out‐planting based restoration approaches are increasingly being applied to assist natural recovery of coral reefs. However, many restoration methods rely on plastic zip‐ties to secure coral material which is potentially problematic for the marine environment. Plastic‐free biodegradable alternatives may however pose unique risks to coral‐associated bacterial communities integral to coral health. Therefore, to identify whether biodegradable materials differentially impact coral‐associated bacterial communities we examined Acropora millepora coral‐associated bacterial communities during propagation in two experiments on the Great Barrier Reef. Coral fragments were secured to coral nurseries with conventional plastic, metal, or biodegradable (polyester and polycaprolactone) ties. Tie failure and coral‐associated bacterial communities were then characterized over six months. Minimal coral mortality was observed (3.6%–8%) and all ties had low failure rates (0%–4.2%) except for biodegradable polyester ties (29.2% failure). No differences were observed between coral‐associated bacterial communities of fragments secured with different ties, and no proliferation of putatively pathogenic bacteria was recorded. Overall, our findings suggest that reducing reliance on conventional plastic is feasible through transitions to biodegradable materials, without any notable impacts on coral‐associated bacterial communities. However, we caution the need to examine more coral taxa of different morphologies and new plastic‐free materials prior to application.
Genome‐scale metabolic modelling of extremophiles and its applications in astrobiological environments
Authors: Noirungsee Nuttapol , Changkhong Sakunthip , Phinyo Kittiya , Suwannajak Chutipong , Tanakul Nahathai , Inwongwan Sahutchai 
Published: January 2024

AbstractMetabolic modelling approaches have become the powerful tools in modern biology. These mathematical models are widely used to predict metabolic phenotypes of the organisms or communities of interest, and to identify metabolic targets in metabolic engineering. Apart from a broad range of industrial applications, the possibility of using metabolic modelling in the contexts of astrobiology are poorly explored. In this mini‐review, we consolidated the concepts and related applications of applying metabolic modelling in studying organisms in space‐related environments, specifically the extremophilic microbes. We recapitulated the current state of the art in metabolic modelling approaches and their advantages in the astrobiological context. Our review encompassed the applications of metabolic modelling in the theoretical investigation of the origin of life within prebiotic environments, as well as the compilation of existing uses of genome‐scale metabolic models of extremophiles. Furthermore, we emphasize the current challenges associated with applying this technique in extreme environments, and conclude this review by discussing the potential implementation of metabolic models to explore theoretically optimal metabolic networks under various space conditions. Through this mini‐review, our aim is to highlight the potential of metabolic modelling in advancing the study of astrobiology.
Systematic review of socioeconomic factors and COVID‐19 in children and adolescents
Authors: Sahli Sarah , Størdal Ketil 
Published: January 2024

AbstractAimTo systematically review the evidence on Covid‐19 infection risk, severity and vaccination uptake among children and adolescents by socioeconomic status.MethodsWe conducted a systematic literature review, using the PubMed database. We searched for articles published from January 2020 to January 2022 using “MeSH” words and titles. The key terms were “COVID”, “social status”, “socioeconomic factor” and “children”. We also searched secondary sources such as published reports and other databases.ResultsThe search identified 14 relevant articles and reports. This review shows that children of lower socioeconomic status have a higher risk of COVID‐19 infection and a higher risk of being hospitalised. Mortality in a global setting was also higher in children with low socioeconomic status, though not observed in high‐resourced countries. These children are also less likely to be vaccinated against the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus.ConclusionsThe higher risk of COVID‐19 infection and hospitalisation and lower vaccination coverage in children and adolescents from lower socioeconomic backgrounds demonstrate health disparities also in young age. These disparities should inform health authorities in planning for future pandemics.
Can digital health democratize health care?
Authors: Hendl Tereza , Shukla Ayush 
Published: January 2024

AbstractMuch has been said about the potential of digital health technologies for democratizing health care. But how exactly is democratization with digital health technologies conceptualized and what does it involve? We investigate debates on the democratization of health care with digital health and identify that democratization is being envisioned as a matter of access to health information, health care, and patient empowerment. However, taking a closer look at the growing pool of empirical data on digital health, we argue that these technologies come short of materializing these goals, given the unequal health outcomes they facilitate. Building on this evidence, we argue that not only debates on democratization need to be connected to concerns of social determinants of health but also debates on the impact of digital health need to go far beyond democratization and engage with concerns of health justice.
Uncovering the predictive effect of behaviours on self‐directed learning ability
Authors: Liu Bowen , Wu Yonghe , Shu Hang , Cui Yongpeng , Zuo Can , Li Wenhao 
Published: January 2024

AbstractSelf‐direction has become an important skill in the 21st century. To cultivate learners with a high level of self‐direction, it is necessary to diagnose their self‐directed learning (SDL) ability. This study diagnosed and predicted learners' SDL ability based on their actual SDL behaviours. The study was performed in a self‐directed 3D design class lasting 90 minutes. A total of 193 middle school students participated in the study. The results of the Pearson correlation analysis (p < 0.001) showed that the reported perception of SDL ability was significantly correlated with SDL behaviours. The results of the hierarchical multiple linear regression analysis showed that the SDL behaviours explained 84.9% of the variance in SDL ability (adjusted R2 = 0.849, p < 0.001). Therefore, SDL behaviours had significant predictive effects on the reported perception of SDL ability. Moreover, based on the random forest algorithm, the study built an SDL ability prediction model with high performance (accuracy = 0.83, precision = 0.82, recall = 0.84) using SDL behaviours as features. The study provides evidence for the design of effective strategies to enhance SDL ability and promote SDL behaviours.Practitioner notesWhat is already known about this topic

To cultivate learners with a high level of self‐direction, it is necessary to diagnose their self‐directed learning (SDL) ability.
SDL is a combination of internal personal attributes and external autonomous behaviours.
Few studies have focused on diagnosing SDL ability based on learners' external SDL behaviours occurring during the learning process.
What this paper adds

The reported perception of SDL ability was significantly correlated with SDL behaviours.
SDL behaviours had significant predictive effects on the reported perception of SDL ability.
Based on the random forest algorithm, the study built an SDL ability prediction model with high performance using SDL behaviours as features.
Implications for practice and/or policy

The findings indicate that instructors could design effective strategies to promote SDL behaviours for the purpose of enhancing learners' SDL ability.
The method and process of building an SDL ability prediction model might provide a reference for related research on ability prediction with behaviours.
Prosthetic species: Security dogs and the more‐than‐human sensing of urban danger
Authors: Jaffe Rivke 
Published: January 2024

AbstractFocusing on human–dog relations, this article develops a more‐than‐human approach to the sensing of urban insecurity. Extending work on the embodied, sensory dimension of fear and other security affects, it centers the role of non‐human, canine bodies in processes of risk assessment. Drawing on research in Kingston, Jamaica, I explore how a range of city dwellers learn to sense danger with and through security dogs. How do those who live and work in the city construct and experience its threats through attunement to their dogs' olfactory, auditory, and visual acuity? And how does this interspecies sensing of urban danger co‐produce distributions of urban safety and precarity? In this context, I suggest, dogs are not only a companion species but also a “prosthetic species,” animals that enhance and extend the limits of the human senses, enabling a more‐than‐human knowledge of what threats look, sound, and smell like. I discuss such practices of interspecies sensing and their effects, concentrating on the identification of criminal, political, and spiritual forms of danger. Together, such instances of interspecies sensing can provide new insights into the everyday perception, construction, and negotiation of fearful cityscapes.
The lived experience of withdrawal from Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants: A qualitative interview study
Authors: Mahmood Raqeeb , Wallace Vuokko , Wiles Nicola , Kessler David , Button Katherine S. , Fairchild Graeme 
Published: January 2024

AbstractBackgroundOur knowledge of the broader impacts of antidepressant withdrawal, beyond physical side effects, is limited. Further research is needed to investigate the lived experiences of withdrawal, to aid clinicians on how to guide patients through the process.AimTo explore antidepressant users’ experiences and views on the withdrawal process and how it affected their quality of life across multiple life domains.Design and SettingWe conducted in‐depth qualitative interviews with 20 individuals from the community who had attempted to withdraw from Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor antidepressants in the past year.MethodSemi‐structured interviews were conducted online. A topic guide was used to ensure consistency across interviews. The interviews were audio‐recorded and transcribed verbatim and analysed using inductive reflexive thematic analysis.ResultsFive themes were generated. The first highlighted the challenges of managing the release from emotional blunting and cognitive suppression following antidepressant discontinuation. The second related to the negative impact of withdrawal on close relationships and social interactions. The third showed that concurrent with negative physical symptoms, there was a positive impact on health (exercise was reported by some as a coping mechanism). The fourth theme focused on support from GPs and families, emphasising the importance of mental health literacy in others. The final theme underscored the importance of gradual and flexible tapering in enabling a manageable withdrawal experience, and the consideration of timing.ConclusionThe lived experience of withdrawal significantly impacts individuals’ well‐being. Participants emphasised that withdrawal is not just about physical side effects but also affects their emotional, cognitive, and social functioning.Patient and Public Involvement (PPI)Eight people attended individual online meetings to share their experiences of antidepressant withdrawal to help inform the study design and recruitment strategy. Insights from these meetings informed the development of the topic guide. Questions about GP involvement, family relationships, and mood and thinking changes were included based on this PPI work. This ensured the inclusion of topics important to antidepressant users and facilitated the researcher's questioning during the interviews.
The mutual value of histopathology and ITS sequencing in the diagnosis of mucormycosis
Authors: Zacharias Martin , Thüringer Andrea , Krause Robert , Kashofer Karl , Gorkiewicz Gregor 
Published: January 2024

AimsMucormycosis is a fast‐progressing disease with a high mortality rate. The most important factor determining survival of patients is early and accurate diagnosis. Although histopathology often recognises invasive mould infections at first, histomorphology alone is insufficient in providing an accurate diagnosis. Unbiased molecular methods to detect and identify fungi are promising, yet their role in complementing routine histopathological workflows has not been studied sufficiently.Methods and resultsWe performed a retrospective single‐centre study examining the clinical value of complementing histopathology with internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequencing of fungal DNA in the routine diagnosis of mucormycosis. At our academic centre, we identified 14 consecutive mucormycosis cases diagnosed by histopathology and subsequent ITS sequencing. Using histomorphological examination, fungal hyphae could be detected in all cases; however, morphological features were unreliable regarding specifying the taxa. Subsequent ITS sequencing identified a remarkable phylogenetic diversity among Mucorales: the most common species was Rhizopus microsporus (six of 14; 42.9%), followed by Lichtheimia corymbifera (three of 14, 21.4%) and single detections of Rhizopus oryzae, Actinomucor elegans, Mucor circinelloides, Rhizomucor pusillus and Rhizomucor miehei (one of 14; 7.1%, respectively). In one case, we additionally detected Pneumocystis jirovecii in the same lung tissue specimen, suggesting a clinically relevant co‐infection. Fungal culture was performed in 10 cases but yielded positive results in only two of 10 (20%), revealing its limited value in the diagnosis of mucormycosis.ConclusionsOur study demonstrates that a combination of histopathology and ITS sequencing is a practically feasible approach that outperforms fungal culture in detecting Mucorales in tissue‐associated infections. Therefore, pathologists might adapt diagnostic workflows accordingly when mucormycosis is suspected.