bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcameral straight-needle–assisted enclavation of retropupillary iris-claw intraocular lens through sclerocorneal tunnel
Authors: Naik Mayuresh , Shalaby Ahmed , Aslam Sher
Published: December 2024

Intraoperatively, a 5.5-mm wide, partial-thickness sclerocorneal tunnel is constructed using a frown incision. 25-gauge pars plana vitrectomy is performed using ports at 3.5 mm from the limbus. A 16-mm STC-6 straight needle is inserted into the anterior chamber, 1 mm from the limbus, and is docked into the lumen of a 26-gauge needle inserted into the anterior chamber, through its diametrically opposite point along the horizontal axes marked preoperatively. The iris-claw lens is introduced into the anterior chamber, ensuring that it is posteriorly vaulted. Implantation forceps (Artisan IOL Implantation Forceps, TMF710 ) are used to grasp the lens just proximal to its optic center and to fixate the clips of the haptics on to the STC-6 needle. Ophthalmic viscosurgical device is aspirated from the anterior chamber, sclerotomy cannulae are removed, the wounds are checked for a leak, and if absent, the procedure is sutureless.
Harold Ridley and the Invention of the Intraocular Lens: a Reappraisal
Authors: Maloney Robert K. , Mahone Sloan
Published: December 2024

Harold Ridley permanently implanted the first intraocular lens (IOL) in 1950. The widely accepted narrative is that Ridley and his invention received a hostile reception from Stewart Duke-Elder and other ophthalmic thought leaders. Ridley suffered greatly but was eventually vindicated as later IOL designs were widely accepted. This narrative casts Ridley as a prophetic innovator who suffered and eventually triumphed against the forces of animosity, jealousy and close-mindedness arrayed against him. We argue that this narrative is biased because it was told by Ridley himself and amplified by his biographer and close friend, David Apple. There were good reasons to be skeptical of Ridley’s invention. Ridley had not done pre-clinical studies, so his first patients suffered avoidable complications. He worked in secret at a time when openness was the norm. Ridley’s IOL had a high percentage of poor outcomes. The cautious approach that Duke-Elder and others had towards IOLs is understandable. The accurate history is a story of a clash of worldviews between an inventor who was focused on innovating quickly to solve a major clinical problem and established leaders who were concerned about the harm to patients from a flawed invention. The skepticism of established thought leaders remains a valuable check on aggressive innovation today.
Using the Expertise of a Clinical Nurse Specialist to Lead a Neonatal Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter Team to Central Line–Associated Bloodstream Infection Reduction and Cost-Efficiency Through Quality Improvement
Authors: Bedwell Susan , Oberlechner Myka , Pogribna Ulana , Sekar Kris
Published: December 2024

OBJECTIVE

This quality improvement project aimed to reduce central line bacteremias (central line–associated bloodstream infections [CLABSIs]) in a neonatal ICU (NICU) to a CLABSI rate of zero using a clinical nurse specialist (CNS)–led neonatal peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) team.

BACKGROUND

The NICU at the study site was experiencing more than twice the National Healthcare Safety Network average CLABSI rate at 2.2 per 1000 line-days with an estimated cost of $2 072 806 to the organization.

METHODS

In early 2009, the CNS guided the unit from on-demand PICC placement to a dedicated team of PICC certified nurses who assumed total care of PICC line insertion and maintenance. The project used a continual, rapid cycle quality improvement model to incorporate the current evidence-based practices.

RESULTS

The CNS-led PICC team has maintained a zero CLABSI rate for 9 years with only 1 CLABSI since June 2022.

CONCLUSIONS

The adoption of a CNS-led PICC team was instrumental in achieving a zero CLABSI rate over a prolonged period.
Digital Psychiatry: Opportunities, Challenges, and Future Directions
Authors: Sidani Lana , Nadar Sarah M. , Tfaili Jana , El Rayes Serena , Sharara Fatima , Elhage Joe C. , Fakhoury Marc
Published: December 2024

Recently, the field of psychiatry has experienced a transformative shift with the integration of digital tools into traditional therapeutic approaches. Digital psychiatry encompasses a wide spectrum of applications, ranging from digital phenotyping, smartphone applications, wearable devices, virtual/augmented reality, and artificial intelligence (AI). This convergence of digital innovations has the potential to revolutionize mental health care, enhancing both accessibility and patient outcomes. However, despite significant progress in the field of digital psychiatry, its implementation presents a plethora of challenges and ethical considerations. Critical problems that require careful investigation are raised by issues such as data privacy, the digital divide, legal frameworks, and the dependability of digital instruments. Furthermore, there are potential risks and several hazards associated with the integration of digital tools into psychiatric practice. A better understanding of the growing field of digital psychiatry is needed to promote the development of effective interventions and improve the accuracy of diagnosis. The overarching goal of this review paper is to provide an overview of some of the current opportunities in digital psychiatry, highlighting both its potential benefits and inherent challenges. This review paper also aims at providing guidelines for future research and for the proper integration of digital psychiatry into clinical practice.
The Clinical Utility of the Level of Personality Functioning Scale: A Treatment Perspective
Authors: Hutsebaut Joost , Bender Donna S.
Published: December 2024

The Level of Personality Functioning Scale (LPFS) was introduced in DSM-5 to articulate a conceptual foundation for all types of personality psychopathology, and to provide an assessment of the severity of impairment. Constructed using universal human capacities related to self- and interpersonal functioning, the LPFS defines a continuum of 5 levels ranging from optimal functioning to extreme impairments in functioning. While there have been a growing number of empirical studies demonstrating its reliability and validity, the LPFS was designed fundamentally as an informative clinical tool, potentially useful to practitioners working in a variety of roles using diverse interventions. This article addresses the issue of treatment utility from 2 particular perspectives. First, we illustrate how the capacities targeted by the LPFS offer a framework for treatment, applicable to a variety of theoretical or methodological orientations. We illustrate that the different facets of the LPFS may provide general aims for treatment by identifying the pathways through which change is realized in (whatever) psychotherapy. Second, we suggest how the levels of functioning may inform pathways toward change by providing information useful for treatment assignment and planning, such as the therapist's stance, the types of intervention, and specific goals in treatment. Through discussing these issues while using brief clinical vignettes, we hope that this article may stimulate clinicians to use the LPFS and discover its value in clinical practice.
The Dynamics of Shape Changes in the Tongue Base during Respiration, Chewing and Swallowing
Authors: Salazar Doris Haydee Rosero , Ly Amy , Dong Yikang , Simnhoung Alexander Veasna , Liu Zi-Jun
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to analyze dimensional deformations of the tongue base during respiration, chewing, and swallowing. Eight 7-8-month-old Yucatan minipigs were used. Under deep sedation, eight 2mm ultrasonic piezoelectric (SONO) crystals were implanted in the tongue base forming a cubic-shaped configuration, representing right/left dorsal and ventral lengths, anterior/posterior dorsal and ventral widths, and right/left anterior and posterior thicknesses. Next, 8 pairs of electromyographic (EMG) microelectrodes were inserted into the tongue, jaw, hyoid, pharyngeal, and palatal muscles. SONO and EMG signals during respiration were recorded. Then, minipigs were allowed to wake-up for unrestrained feeding. The feeding sessions were recorded with synchronized EMG and videofluoroscopy to confirm the phases of jaw movement in chewing, and swallowing episodes. Amplitudes, durations, and timings for each dimension of the SONO crystal-circumscribed region were measured from the start of the jaw opening. Findings during respiration showed elongated lengths, anterior widths and anterior thickness (p<0.05). For chewing, the width elongated up to 17% while the length and thickness shortened (12-33% and 10-32% respectively, p<0.05). Onsets of deformational changes in length and thickness occurred 10-30% earlier than in width. The cycle duration was 0.55 ± 0.11seconds chewing, and 0.69 ± 0.16seconds swallowing. During swallowing, the dorsal length (5-12%) and posterior width (10-14%) elongated whereas the posterior thickness (9-15%) and ventral length (4-10%) shortened. Explicit 3D-kinematic patterns in relation to specific functions characterize the tongue base deformation. The findings of this analysis will contribute to a better understanding of the oropharyngeal biomechanics upon abnormal conditions.
Nanoparticle Accumulation and Penetration in 3D Tumor Models: the Effect of Size, Shape, and Surface Charge
Authors: Cybulski Pierre , Bravo Maria , Chen Jim Jui-Kai , Van Zundert Indra , Krzyzowska Sandra , Taemaitree Farsai , Uji-i Hiroshi , Hofkens Johan , Rocha Susana , Fortuni Beatrice
Published: December 2024

Preclinical studies have demonstrated that nanoparticles (NPs) hold significant potential for advancing cancer therapy by enhancing therapeutic efficacy while reducing side effects. Their effectiveness in solid tumors is, however, often constrained by insufficient accumulation and penetration. Understanding how the physicochemical properties of NPs – such as size, shape, and surface charge – influence their interaction with cells within the tumor is critical for optimizing NP design. In this study, we addressed the challenge of inconsistent NP behavior by systematically evaluating NP uptake in both 2D and 3D tumor models, and NP penetration in spheroids. Our results showed that larger NPs exhibited higher internalization rates in 2D models but limited penetration in 3D spheroids. Furthermore, negatively charged NPs consistently achieved superior accumulation and deeper penetration than neutral and positively charged NPs. Spherical NPs outperformed rod-shaped NPs in tumor accumulation and penetration. These findings underscore the importance of carefully tailoring NP properties to the complex tumor microenvironment for improved therapeutic outcomes in real tumors.
Comprehensive Analysis of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Evolution: Epitope Classification and Immune Escape Prediction
Authors: Teruel Natalia Fagundes Borges , Crown Matthew , Rajsbaum Ricardo , Bashton Matthew , Najmanovich Rafael
Published: December 2024

The evolution of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, has produced unprecedented numbers of structures of the Spike protein. This study presents a comprehensive analysis of 1,560 published Spike protein structures, capturing most variants that emerged throughout the pandemic and covering diverse heteromerization and interacting complexes. We employ an interaction-energy informed geometric clustering to identify 14 epitopes characterized by their conformational specificity, shared interface with ACE2 binding, and glycosylation patterns. Our per-residue interaction evaluations accurately predict each residue's role in antibody recognition and as well as experimental measurements of immune escape, showing strong correlations with DMS data, thus making it possible to predict the behaviour of future variants. We integrate the structural analysis with a longitudinal analysis of nearly 3 million viral sequences. This broad-ranging structural and longitudinal analysis provides insight into the effect of specific mutations on the energetics of interactions and dynamics of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein during the course of the pandemic. Specifically, with the emergence of widespread immunity, we observe an enthalpic trade-off in which mutations in the receptor binding motif (RBM) that promote immune escape also weaken the interaction with ACE2. Additionally, we also observe a second mechanism, that we call entropic trade-off, in which mutations outside of the RBM contribute to decrease the occupancy of the open state of SARS-CoV-2 Spike, thus also contributing to immune escape at the expense of ACE2 binding but without changes on the ACE2 binding interface. This work not only highlights the role of mutations across SARS-CoV-2 Spike variants but also reveals the complex interplay of evolutionary forces shaping the evolution of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein over the course of the pandemic.
HIPSTR: highest independent posterior subtree reconstruction in TreeAnnotator X
Authors: Baele Guy , Carvalho Luiz M. , Brusselmans Marius , Dudas Gytis , Ji Xiang , McCrone John T. , Lemey Philippe , Suchard Marc A. , Rambaut Andrew
Published: December 2024

In Bayesian phylogenetic and phylodynamic studies it is common to summarise the posterior distribution of trees with a time-calibrated consensus phylogeny. While the maximum clade credibility (MCC) tree is often used for this purpose, we here show that a novel consensus tree method – the highest independent posterior subtree reconstruction, or HIPSTR – contains consistently higher supported clades over MCC. We also provide faster computational routines for estimating both consensus trees in an updated version of TreeAnnotator X, an open-source software program that summarizes the information from a sample of trees and returns many helpful statistics such as individual clade credibilities contained in the consensus tree. HIPSTR and MCC reconstructions on two Ebola virus and two SARS-CoV-2 data sets show that HIPSTR yields consensus trees that consistently contain clades with higher support compared to MCC trees. The MCC trees regularly fail to include several clades with very high posterior probability (≥ 0.95) as well as a large number of clades with moderate to high posterior probability (≥ 0.50), whereas HIPSTR achieves near-perfect performance in this respect. HIPSTR also exhibits favorable computational performance over MCC in TreeAnnotator X. Comparison to the recently developed CCD0-MAP algorithm yielded mixed results, and requires more in-depth exploration in follow-up studies. TreeAnnotator X – which is part of the BEAST X (v10.5.0) software package – is available athttps://github.com/beast-dev/beast-mcmc/releases.
DNA duplication-mediated activation of a two-component regulatory system serves as a bet-hedging strategy forBurkholderia thailandensis
Authors: Lowrey Lillian C. , Mote Katlyn B. , Cotter Peggy A.
Published: December 2024

Burkholderia thailandensisstrain E264 (BtE264) and close relatives stochastically duplicate a 208.6 kb region of chromosome I via RecA-dependent recombination between two nearly identical insertion sequence elements. Because homologous recombination occurs at a constant, low level, populations ofBtE264 are always heterogeneous, but cells containing two or more copies of the region (Dup+) have an advantage, and hence predominate, during biofilm growth, while those with a single copy (Dup–) are favored during planktonic growth. Moreover, only Dup+ bacteria form ‘efficient’ biofilms within 24 hours in liquid medium. We determined that duplicate copies of a subregion containing genes encoding an archaic chaperone-usher pilus (aplFABCDE) and a two-component regulatory system (bubSR) are necessary and sufficient for generating efficient biofilms and for conferring a selective advantage during biofilm growth. BubSR functionality is required, as deletion of eitherbubSorbubR, or a mutation predicted to abrogate phosphorylation of BubR, abrogates biofilm formation. However, duplicate copies of theaplFABCDEgenes are not required. Instead, we found that BubSR controls expression ofaplFABCDEandbubSRby activating a promoter upstream ofaplFduring biofilm growth or when the 208.6 kb region, or justbubSR, are duplicated. Single cell analyses showed that duplication of the 208.6 kb region is sufficient to activate BubSR in 75% of bacteria during planktonic (BubSR ‘OFF’) growth conditions. Together, our data indicate that the combination of deterministic two-component signal transduction and stochastic, duplication-mediated activation of that TCS form a bet-hedging strategy that allowsBtE264 to survive when conditions shift rapidly from those favoring planktonic growth to those requiring biofilm formation, such as may be encountered in the soils of Southeast Asia and Northern Australia. Our data highlight the positive impact that transposable elements can have on the evolution of bacterial populations.

Author summary

Transposable elements naturally accumulate within genomes in all kingdoms of life. When present in the same orientation, a pair of homologous elements can act as substrates for DNA recombination reactions that can duplicate and delete intervening sequences – giving rise to genetically heterogenous populations. We showed here thatBurkholderia thailandensisstrain E264 uses this mechanism to amplify genes encoding a two-component regulatory system and an archaic chaperone usher pilus, priming the cells for rapid biofilm formation. The formation of a small subpopulation of biofilm-ready bacteria serves as a bet- hedging strategy, ensuring overall population survival should conditions change rapidly from those in which planktonic growth is optimal to those in which adherence and biofilm formation is required.
Human gut archaea collection from Estonian population
Authors: Pantiukh Kateryna , Org Elin
Published: December 2024

While microbiota plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health, archaea, a component of microbiota, remain relatively unexplored. Here, we present a newly assembled set of archaeal metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) from 1,887 fecal microbiome samples. These archaeal MAGs were recovered for the first time from the Estonian population, specifically from the Estonian Microbiome Deep (EstMB-deep) cohort. In total, we identified 273 archaeal MAGs, representing 21 species and 144 strains (“EstMB MAGdb Archaea-273” MAGs collection). Of these 21 species, 12 species belonged to the orderMethanobacterialesandMethanomassilicicoccales, other 9 species fromMethanomassiliicoccaleswere novel. Notably, 7 of the 9 new species belonged to theUBA71genus. Given that the latest version of the Unified Human Gastrointestinal Genome (UHGG v2.0.2) database includes 27 archaeal species, we expanded the known archaeal diversity at the species level by 30%.
Rhodococcus parequisp. nov., a new species isolated from equine farm soil closely related to the pathogenRhodococcus equi
Authors: Vázquez-Boland José A. , Val-Calvo Jorge , Duquesne Fabien , Decorosi Francesca , Viti Carlo , Petry Sandrine , Scortti Mariela
Published: December 2024

We present the description of the new species,Rhodococcus(Prescottella)parequi, found during phylogenomic investigations of a global collection of strains identified asRhodococcus(Prescottella)equi. Strain PAM 2766 was isolated from horse-breeding farm soil in Normandy, France, and was indistinguishable fromR. equibased on the usual identification tests. Whole-genome phylogenetic analyses located PAM 2766 in the sameRhodococcussublineage asR. equi, together withRhodococcus agglutinans,Rhodococcus defluvii,Rhodococcus soli,Rhodococcus subtropicus,Rhodococcus spongiicolaandRhodococcus xishaensis. PAM 2766 is most closely related to, but sufficiently distinct fromR. equiDSM 20307Tto be considered as a separate species. Average Nucleotide Identity (ANI) and Average Amino Acid Identity (AAI) values are 88.60% and 92.35, respectively, well below the species cutoff. The PAM 2766 draft genome is ∼5.3 Mb in size with 68.98% G+C mol content. PAM 2766Tis aerobic, non-motile, and produces smooth creamy to buff-coloured colonies very similar to those ofR. equi. It phenotypically differs from the latter by the ability to grow at 5°C, a strongly positive urease test at 24 h, and specificities in the carbon and nitrogen source utilization profile as determined by phenotype microarray screens. Our data indicate that PAM 2766 belongs to a novel species, for which the nameRhodococcus parequisp. nov. is proposed.R. parequiwas avirulent in macrophage infection assays and is assumed to be non-pathogenic. The type strain is PAM 2766T(=CETC 30995T= NCTC 14987T).
More Structure, Less Accuracy: ESM3’s Binding Prediction Paradox
Authors: Loux Thomas , Wang Dianzhuo , Shakhnovich Eugene I.
Published: December 2024

This paper investigates the impact of incorporating structural information into the protein-protein interaction predictions made by ESM3, a multimodal protein language model (pLM). We utilized various structural variants as inputs and compared three widely used structure acquisition pipelines—EvoEF2, Gromacs, and Rosetta Relax—to assess their effects on ESM3’s performance. Our findings reveal that the use of a consistent identical structure, regardless of whether it is relaxed or variant, consistently enhances model performance across various datasets. This improvement is striking in few-show learning. However, performance deteriorates when different relaxed mutant structures are used for each variant. Based on these results, we advise caution when integrating distinct mutant structures into ESM3 and similar models.This study highlights the critical need for careful consideration of structural inputs in protein binding affinity prediction.
Superconductivity from Domain Wall Fluctuations in Sliding Ferroelectrics
Authors: Chaudhary Gaurav , Martin Ivar
Published: December 2024

Bilayers of two-dimensional van der Waals materials that lack an inversion center can show a novel form of ferroelectricity, where certain stacking arrangements of the two layers lead to an interlayer polarization. Under an external out-of-plane electric field, a relative sliding between the two layers can occur, accompanied by an interlayer charge transfer and a ferroelectric switching. We show that the domain walls that mediate ferroelectric switching are a locus of strong attractive interactions between electrons. The attraction is mediated by the ferroelectric domain wall fluctuations, effectively driven by the soft interlayer shear phonon. We comment on the possible relevance of this attraction mechanism to the recent observation of an interplay between sliding ferroelectricity and superconductivity in bilayer Td−MoTe2. We also discuss the possible role of this mechanism in the superconductivity of moiré bilayers.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Building a collaborative manufacturing system’s network resilience through an adaptability potential analysis
Authors: Ferhat Selma , Oger Raphael , Ballot Eric , Lauras Matthieu
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This research aims to investigate how adaptability potential analysis in collaborative manufacturing networks can be used to enhance resilience when addressing innovative production challenges that require change initiatives.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review on collaborative adaptive systems showed a lack of solutions to adapt production to an unpredicted product within a network. A framework is proposed for evaluating the adaptability of collaborative networks and providing inter-system adaptation recommendations. We demonstrate the applicability of this approach through an illustrative experimentation involving a cosmetic company seeking to produce a new product, hydroalcoholic gels in the context of collaborative networks.

Findings

The experimentation demonstrates that the adaptability analysis based on ontology can help different manufacturing systems make decisions based on their state and limits of capabilities. Also, our adaptation recommendations may help understand the economic impacts of collaboration for different scenarios before launching.

Research limitations/implications

The research scope does not extend to the consideration of quantity and operational aspects. Additionally, the reconfigurability aspects within each manufacturing system, such as the reordering of layout sequences, have not been addressed yet.

Practical implications

The results allow organizations to compare resilience states from an individual and collaborative perspective, enabling them to make informed decisions about new production opportunities and effectively navigate the changing manufacturing landscape.

Originality/value

This research combines capability-based analysis and a collaborative network perspective to streamline decision-making for systems facing new production demands. It provides new insights into effectual decision-making, empowering organizations to skilfully manage unexpected challenges and identify suitable partners accordingly.
Resources and capabilities for logistics 4.0 and sustainable value creation: a study of logistics service providers in an emerging market
Authors: Vasiulis Ferreira Rodrigues Nayra , De Camargo Fiorini Paula , Piato Éderson Luiz , Lopes de Sousa Jabbour Ana Beatriz , Chiappetta Jabbour Charbel Jose
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The present study aims to identify the resources and capabilities that enable logistics service providers (LSPs) to create sustainable value through Logistics 4.0.

Design/methodology/approach

A multiple case study was conducted with five LSPs operating in an emerging market context. Data were analyzed using the content analysis technique with the support of NVivo software.

Findings

Drawing on the resource-based view theory, the study elucidates the resources and capabilities necessary for the successful adoption of Logistics 4.0 by LSPs. The findings highlight the significance of integrating Logistics 4.0 technological resources with other organizational assets, including human capital, an innovative culture, leadership and strategic partnerships. This integration can enable companies to optimize the sustainable value derived from their digital transformation initiatives.

Research limitations/implications

The present research focused on LSPs, potentially overlooking insights that could be gained from other segments of the supply chain. The study paves the way for future studies to examine resources and capabilities in a range of other supply chain management functions.

Originality/value

The study offers unique theoretical and practical insights by identifying key resources for the adoption of Logistics 4.0 among LSPs, emphasizing its potential for sustainable value creation. It highlights the environmental, economic and societal impacts of 4.0 technologies, outlining the implications for policymakers to drive the successful adoption of Logistics 4.0 in emerging markets while also promoting social inclusion and professional development of logistics workers.
Impact of global capabilities on performance in international logistics companies
Authors: Adiguzel Zafer , Sonmez Cakir Fatma , Yesilot Zehir Songul , Zehir Cemal
Published: December 2024

Purpose

In order to make a difference in a globally competitive environment, companies should analyze their competitors, which is one of the factors around them, well, do research, observe the environment and know how to adapt. For this purpose, the research examines the effects of competitive intensity and marketing and sales capabilities, together with the global capabilities of logistics companies operating internationally (third-party logistics companies (3PL)), which are examined.

Design/methodology/approach

To establish and test the model, a sample of 504 participants working at senior levels in internationally operating logistics companies (third-party logistics companies (3PL)) with their headquarters in Istanbul was taken and a scale consisting of a total of 32 statements was presented to them. Analyses were performed using Jamovi and SmartPLS 3.3.5. This program was used because, in addition to estimating path models with latent variables, it also calculated standard results evaluation criteria. First, the results of factor analysis are given. After these analyses were completed, the hypotheses were tested.

Findings

This research is supported by hypotheses as a result of the analysis that global capabilities are an important factor for logistics companies at the international level, and that the competitive intensity also affects the performance outputs and that marketing and sales capabilities also have an impact.

Research limitations/implications

Since data are collected from logistics companies operating globally, it is necessary to pay attention when the analysis results are compared with different sectors. Because the intensity of competition may vary depending on the sector and market in which companies operate. At the same time, the data were collected from authorized white-collar employees working at a senior level in logistics companies. Because, in terms of the level of being able to answer the questions about the variables examined in the research model, data were collected from high-level officials.

Practical implications

It is getting harder and harder to compete on a global scale by going beyond national borders. The results of the analysis show how important the global capabilities of logistics companies are, especially the increasing importance of logistics activities for countries. For this reason, logistics companies operating on an international scale need to attach importance to the competitive intensity and develop their marketing and sales capabilities.

Originality/value

The research is original in that it examines the global capabilities of logistics companies in their international activities and the effects of competition intensity. In addition, it is important for companies in this sector to examine the effects of marketing and sales capabilities so that logistics companies can reach more customers in their international activities and be more effective in the market compared to their competitors.
The relationship between inclusive leadership, organizational justice, work engagement and organizational citizenship behavior in healthcare workers
Authors: Akgerman Ayşe , Gül Duygu , Sönmez Betül
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Based on social exchange theory, this study aims to determine the relationship between inclusive leadership in their managers and organizational justice perceived by healthcare workers and work engagement and organizational citizenship behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional and correlational study was performed by healthcare workers (n = 330) working in a city hospital for at least six months in Türkiye. Descriptive statistics, correlation and regression analysis were used in data analysis. The hypotheses were tested using Hayes’ PROCESS macro (v4.1).

Findings

It was determined that inclusive leadership had a positive significant effect on organizational justice, work engagement and organizational citizenship behavior; and organizational justice had a positive significant effect on work engagement and organizational citizenship behavior. In addition, it was found that work engagement also had a significant effect on organizational citizenship behavior. It was found that organizational justice had a partial mediating role between inclusive leadership and work engagement, while its mediating role between inclusive leadership and organizational citizenship behavior was not statistically significant. In addition, work engagement was found to have a partial mediating role in the effect of inclusive leadership on organizational citizenship behavior.

Research limitations/implications

The limitations of this study can be summarized as follows: First, the data were collected from the employees in a hospital based on the self-reports of the participants. The fact that the study used a cross-sectional design limited the establishment of a causal relationship between variables. Since the study was planned during the COVID-19 period, the participants were reached through convenience sampling. Isolation measures due to the pandemic led to a lower response rate than expected. To reveal more generalizable results, it may be recommended to collect the data at different periods in future studies and to include different types of healthcare institutions.

Practical implications

Inclusive leadership of the healthcare managers will lead to positive employee outcomes by preventing the disadvantages brought by internal conflict in the work environment.

Originality/value

This study indicates that managers’ inclusive leadership style will improve perceived organizational justice and work engagement and will lead employees to exhibit the desired extra-role behavior, such as organizational citizenship behavior.
Network management: proposition and validation of a framework
Authors: Azevedo Ana Cláudia , Pereira Rafael Morais , Ramirez Camilo Angel Peña , Santos Jhunior Ronaldo de Oliveira
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to propose and validate a framework for analyzing management activities in regional strategic networks. It addresses the knowledge gap regarding network management and the lack of focus on specific activities and management modes employed by network actors.

Design/methodology/approach

The research methodology involves a literature review to identify essential network management functions, which academic experts and field specialists then evaluate. Based on their feedback, an instrument is refined to assess these activities’ strategic importance and frequency. Data is collected from 86 regional strategic network managers, meeting the required criteria for factor analysis. Principal component analysis with varimax rotation measures the “Network Management” construct and identifies underlying dimensions summarizing observed variables.

Findings

The analysis reveals two dimensions within the framework: one encompasses early-stage network development activities (ex ante activities), and the other includes activities associated with more advanced stages (ex post activities). This framework contributes methodologically to measuring and analyzing network management.

Research limitations/implications

This research addresses the need for robust conceptual frameworks in network governance, advancing the understanding of governance drivers and their impact on network outcomes by aligning network phenomena with performance.

Practical implications

The framework provides valuable insights for network managers, enhancing their understanding of management activities’ strategic importance and frequency. This knowledge can inform managerial decisions and improve network management practices.

Originality/value

This study introduces an original framework for analyzing network management activities in regional strategic networks, filling a significant research gap. Despite limitations like specificity to certain network types and subjective responses, the study maintains validity and reliability criteria. Future research opportunities involve applying the framework to different network contexts and conducting longitudinal studies to track network management evolution.
Statistical analysis of process parameters for additive manufacturing of a pipe spacer for oil and gas applications
Authors: Alsaiari Meshal , Khan Mushtaq , Faramarz Djavanroodi , Tavares Joao
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the effects of process parameters on parts produced through the material extrusion process to create a piping spacer suitable for oil and gas applications.

Design/methodology/approach

The two primary materials examined were Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate (ASA) and High-Impact Polystyrene (HIPS). Taguchi’s design of experiment methodology was used for the design of experiments. The effect of processing parameters fill density, layer thickness and printing orientation) on the output factors (maximum compressive strength and specific energy) was analyzed through analysis of variance. According to the application of the piping spacer, compression testing is deemed to be as per ASTM-D695 requirements. In addition to this, the optimum processing factors were identified through gray relational analysis (GRA) and response surface methodology (RSM).

Findings

ANOVA results indicate that fill density had the highest percentage contribution for ASA, with a percentage of 29.84%, followed by layer thickness (27.54%) and printing orientation (22.08%). However, for the HIPS material, density was the most influential element, with a contribution of 77.80%, followed by layer thickness at 16.77% and printing orientation at 4.39%. Optimization of the process parameters through GRA and RSM suggested the optimum parameters combination for ASA was 90° printing orientation, 0.09 mm layer thickness and 100% fill density, whereas HIPS had the same response except for the printing orientation, which was 0°, 0.09 mm layer thickness and 100% fill density.

Originality/value

This paper can serve as an aid in understanding the effect of printing orientation, layer thickness and fill density on the plyometric material extrusion process.
Preliminary validation of Amped FIVE software for subject height estimation
Authors: Ibrahim Reem , Liscio Eugene
Published: December 2024

Single view metrology poses a persistent challenge in extracting accurate quantitative information from individual images or video frames within the realm of forensic video analysis. Methods such as reverse projection, projective geometry, and photogrammetry have been used in the past with success but require validation and understanding of the limitations of each method. This study aims to conduct a preliminary validation of the subject height estimation feature in Amped FIVE software, which relies on the principles of single view metrology. A group of 14 individuals assumed an upright posture at distances of 2.4 m, 5.4 m, and 10 m away from two security cameras with different resolutions 4k (3840 × 2160) and HD (1920 × 1080). Prior to recording, participants’ heights were measured but were not provided to the researcher in this study until after the analysis was completed. A height scale with clearly marked black and white graduations was used as a control. Height estimations were subsequently obtained using the Measure 3D tool in Amped FIVE software. On average, the overall error was found to be approximately ± 1.3 cm with a standard deviation of 0.9 cm. This study shows that Amped FIVE can provide accurate height estimates in a controlled environment. Future work should be done to test more difficult scenarios in less‐than‐ideal conditions.
Characterization and peptide identification of umami fractions from rusip—a traditional fermented anchovy product
Authors: Amelia Vania , Nurhamzah Lutfi Yulmiftiyanto , Lioe Hanifah Nuryani , Sitanggang Azis Boing , Adawiyah Dede Robiatul , Kusumaningrum Harsi Dewantari
Published: December 2024

Rusip is a spontaneously fermented anchovy product originating from Bangka Belitung province in Indonesia, used as umami seasoning. This study investigated the characteristics of rusip and its umami fractions to reveal umami peptides in rusip. Six commercial rusip samples from Bangka were analyzed for their proximate composition, pH, total titratable acids, NaCl, total sugars, free glutamic acid, nucleotide (adenosine monophosphate), and total amino acid composition. Umami taste intensity of water‐soluble extracts (WSE) was analyzed by a sensory panel. Total plate count and total lactic acid bacteria were also analyzed to assess the microbial variations between the samples. Stepwise ultrafiltration on the highest umami intensity WSE was conducted to obtain three fractions: >5 kDa, 3–5 kDa, and <3 kDa, followed by chromatography fractionation of fraction <3 kDa by Sephadex G‐15 gel to acquire umami fractions (F1–F4). Protein (28.94%–44.53% dry weight basis [db]) and NaCl (30.86%–55.73% db) were the major solids of rusip. Concentrations of free glutamic acid (5.79%–8.99% db) in rusip are related with umami intensities of WSE. F1 was the umami fraction with its residual umami amino acids higher than its free ones; therefore, F1 was also a peptide fraction. It contained peptides of 3–12 residues within the highest relative area. Their sequences contained those of umami peptides listed in BIOPEP database. Some of these peptides were also associated with bioactivities. This information could broaden the insight of umami peptides and their bioactivities in fermented foods.

Practical Application

Rusip is used as a source of umami ingredient in food. The characteristics of product quality of rusip were reported in this study. In addition, the chemical and sensory characteristics as well as peptides of its umami fraction were also described. This information is important for the exploration of umami peptides from fish fermented products.
Attitudes toward artificial meat in Arab countries
Authors: Chriki Sghaier , Alhujaili Asmaa , Hallman William K. , Payet Vincent , Ellies‐Oury Marie‐Pierre , Hocquette Jean‐François
Published: December 2024

In development for almost 20 years, artificial meat (also known as “cell‐based meat,” “cell‐cultured meat,” “cultured meat,” “cultivated meat,” “in vitro meat” and “lab‐grown meat”) is the most striking example of cellular agriculture. This research aims to study Arab consumers' attitudes toward artificial meat, which is a topic of great interest to scientists and the media. An online survey was conducted with 1025 participants revealed that 17% consider artificial meat to be promising and acceptable. Over 40% would be willing to try this novel product, whereas 36% expressed reluctance and 22.7% were unsure. Among non‐hesitant respondents, about 60% of all participants would be willing to eat artificial meat on a regular basis, particularly in restaurants (16.2%), at home (27.6%), and/or in ready‐made meals (33.9%). Nevertheless, the majority of participants (55%) indicated a willingness to pay (WTP) less or much less (or even nothing at all) for artificial meat in comparison to conventional meat. A notable 27% of participants expressed a WTP the same price for artificial meat as for conventional meat. Conversely, only 14% of them indicated a WTP more for artificial meat. Income, gender, and age were the most important predictors of consumer acceptance. Young and middle‐aged men and those with the highest monthly income are most likely to accept artificial meat. These are the consumers most likely to be targeted by those marketing artificial meat in Arabic‐speaking countries.

Practical Application

The demographic groups most likely to accept artificial or cell‐based meat in Arab countries are young and middle‐aged men and those with the highest monthly incomes. These are the consumers most likely to be targeted by those attempting to market artificial meat in Arabic‐speaking countries. Consequently, the results of our study are directly relevant to understanding the potential approaches (and challenges) to selling artificial meat in this context.
Modulation of adzuki (Vigna angularis) bean milk analog substrates and metabolites through singular and/or combined treatment of germination and lactic acid fermentation
Authors: Luo Ying , Tindjau Ricco , Ler Yi‐Cheng , Yue Tianli , Yuan Yahong , Tian Honglei , Liu Shao‐Quan
Published: December 2024

Given the growing interest in dairy‐free milk analog products, new and diversified alternatives are pivotal to push the market forward. Germination and fermentation are traditional processing technologies used in plant‐based milk production. However, the combination of both has not been extensively investigated. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential combined beneficial effects of coupling germination and fermentation on selected substrates and metabolites in adzuki bean milk analog. It was found that germination increased essential amino acids to 1193.44 from 421.46 mg/L in control while raising simple sugar and “green” (green odor) volatile compounds. Fermentation with probiotic Limosilactobacillus fermentum enriched the adzuki bean milk analog with probiotics and organic acids, whereby it also reduced some free amino acids (especially arginine) and “green” volatiles. Germination coupled with fermentation was able to overcome the deficiencies of the respective single treatment by elevating essential amino acid content (with a 4.8‐fold increase in lysine and a 3.8‐fold increase in histidine) and removing “green” odor volatiles while biofortifying the bean milk with probiotics, organic acids, and vitamin (nicotinic acid). Overall, a combination of germination and fermentation merits further research for substrate and metabolite modulation to develop novel and nutritious plant‐based milk analogs with desirable flavor.
Ultra‐processed plant‐based analogs: Addressing the challenging journey toward health and safety
Authors: Martín‐Miguélez Jose M. , Martín Irene , González‐Mohíno Alberto , Souza Olegario Lary , Peromingo Belén , Delgado Josué
Published: December 2024

Currently, plant‐based analogs are presented as healthier alternatives to the products they are intended to replace. However, the processing to which ultra‐processed plant‐based analogs are subjected to acquire the characteristics of animal‐derived products might result in the opposite effect, producing unhealthy ultra‐processed foods. In the present review, a list of strategies widely known and already employed in animal‐derived products is suggested to achieve healthier, safer, and tastier ultra‐processed plant‐based analogs: fermentation, employment of probiotics and postbiotics, NaCl replacement or substitution, addition of antioxidants, and fatty profile enhancement. In general, these strategies are not yet applied to the plant‐based products available on the market; thus, this research paper might induce new investigation pathways for researchers and producers to develop actually healthier alternatives.
LGBTQI+ professional accountants and the consequences of stigmatization: An identity work perspective
Authors: Ghio Alessandro , Malsch Bertrand , McGuigan Nicholas
Published: December 2024

Using a qualitative research design and drawing on an identity work perspective, we explore how LGBTQI+ professional accountants relate their self‐identity to their professional occupation and manage their stigmatized identity at work. Sharing original empirical data from focus groups and semi‐structured interviews with LGBTQI+ professional accountants, we show how they engage in inward‐facing identity work by resisting stigmatizing pressures by conceiving of a self that is both outside the norm (“deviant”) and adapted to it (i.e., a deviant‐adapted self). However, we also find that stigmatized identities can be embraced by participants as legitimate sources of distinct professional dispositions and a more powerful work ethic. This finding offers a less confrontational view of how marginalized identities and sexuality intersect with the accounting profession. In outward‐facing processes of identity work, we show considerable variations in how and when participants communicate about their stigmatized identity. Finally, we highlight the collective dynamic of stigma management as a fundamental condition of possibility for targets to overcome the limits of atomized individual action. However, this collective dynamic entails the risk of all targets being absorbed into a collective representation and social‐identity that either makes them invisible, or directly opposes certain aspects of their self‐identity. In this respect, we show how some of our participants actively contribute to the creation of a collective social‐identity to combat stigmatization within firms, which in turn generates symbolic power differentials and symbolic violence within LGBTQI+ professional accountants.