bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The MorbidGenes panel: a monthly updated list of diagnostically relevant rare disease genes derived from diverse sources
Authors: Jauss Robin-Tobias , Popp Bernt , Bachmann Joachim , Jamra Rami Abou , Platzer Konrad
Published: April 2024

Purpose

With exome sequencing now standard, diagnostic labs are in need of a, in principle, to-the-day-accurate list of genes associated with rare diseases. Manual curation efforts are slow and often disease specific, while efforts relying on single sources are too inaccurate and may result in false-positive or false-negative genes.

Methods

We established the MorbidGenes panel based on a list of publicly available databases: OMIM, PanelApp, SysNDD, ClinVar, HGMD and GenCC. A simple logic allows inclusion of genes that are supported by at least one of these sources, providing a list of all genes with diagnostic relevance.

Results

The panel is freely available athttps://morbidgenes.uni-leipzig.deand currently includes 4960 genes (as of March 2024) with minimally sufficient evidence on disease causality to classify them as diagnostically relevant.

Conclusion

The MorbidGenes panel is an open and comprehensive overview of diagnostically relevant rare disease genes based on a diverse set of resources. The panel is updated monthly to keep up with the ever increasing number of rare disease genes.
Scn2adeletion disrupts oligodendroglia function: Implication for myelination, neural circuitry, and auditory hypersensitivity in ASD
Authors: Bae Han-Gyu , Wu Wan-Chen , Nip Kaila , Gould Elizabeth , Kim Jun Hee
Published: April 2024

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by a complex etiology, with genetic determinants significantly influencing its manifestation. Among these, theScn2agene emerges as a pivotal player, crucially involved in both glial and neuronal functionality. This study elucidates the underexplored roles ofScn2ain oligodendrocytes, and its subsequent impact on myelination and auditory neural processes. The results reveal a nuanced interplay between oligodendrocytes and axons, whereScn2adeletion causes alterations in the intricate process of myelination. This disruption, in turn, instigates changes in axonal properties and neuronal activities at the single cell level. Furthermore, oligodendrocyte-specificScn2adeletion compromises the integrity of neural circuitry within auditory pathways, leading to auditory hypersensitivity—a common sensory abnormality observed in ASD. Through transcriptional profiling, we identified alterations in the expression of myelin-associated genes, highlighting the cellular consequences engendered byScn2adeletion. In summary, the findings provide unprecedented insights into the pathway fromScn2adeletion in oligodendrocytes to sensory abnormalities in ASD, underscoring the integral role ofScn2a-mediated myelination in auditory responses. This research thereby provides novel insights into the intricate tapestry of genetic and cellular interactions inherent in ASD.
Electrical stimulation of grape berries as new alternative for post-harvest infection management
Authors: Fernandes Mariana , Rodrigues Flávio , Cardoso Vanessa F. , Silva Filipe , Fernandes Margarida M.
Published: April 2024

Viticulture stands out as a primary agricultural sector in the EU. However, an intensive regime of chemical pesticides is used to meet production standards. Consequently, the EU has taken measures to encourage the promotion of sustainable agrochemical practices. It has recently been demonstrated that low voltage and electrical current can also successfully destroy different type of microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi. However, the application of electric current has not been much explored for preventing early stages of fresh fruit rotting. As a result, an innovative setup was developed to study the effect of an alternating current (50 mA) on grapes previously contaminated withE. coli. A visual analysis of the state of degradation of the grapes 12 days after the electrical treatment allowed us to conclude that the contaminated grapes subjected to electrical treatment (at day 1) did not show visual contamination, when compared to the contaminated grapes without electrical treatment, presenting a similar appearance to the grapes used as control. The quantitative assay also confirmed this result since on the NB agar plates it was possible to visualize a significant reduction in colonies, corresponding to 2 log10CFU/mL, indicating that approximately 99% of theE. colipreviously attached to the berry’ surface was eradicated. This environmentally sustainable solution aims to reduce dependence on pesticides. Still, other studies will focus on validating its effectiveness against target microorganisms and optimizing a conductive network for applying electrical stimuli to a bunch of grapes.
The link between space and time along the human cortical hierarchy
Authors: Centanino Valeria , Fortunato Gianfranco , Bueti Domenica
Published: April 2024

In humans, very few studies have directly tested the link between the neural coding of time and space. Here we combined ultra-high field functional magnetic resonance imaging with neuronal-based modeling to investigate how and where the processing and the representation of a visual stimulus duration is linked to that of its spatial location. Results show a transition in the neural response to duration: from monotonic and spatially-dependent in early visual cortex, to unimodal and spatially-invariant in frontal cortex. This transition begins in extrastriate areas V3AB, and it fully displays in the intraparietal sulcus (IPS), where both unimodal and monotonic responses are present and where neuronal populations are selective to either space, time or both. In IPS, space and time topographies show a specific relationship, although along the cortical hierarchy duration maps compared to spatial ones are smaller in size, less clustered and more variable across participants. These results help to identify the mechanisms through which humans perceive the duration of a visual object with a specific spatial location and precisely characterize the functional link between time and space processing, highlighting the importance of space-time interactions in shaping brain responses.
A spatio-temporaral atlas of the growing brain for fMRI studies
Authors: Murgasova Maria , Doria Valentina , Srinivasan Latha , Aljabar Paul , Edwards David , Rueckert Daniel
Published: April 2024

Spatio-temporal atlases of the growing brain can help when building models of brain development, not only for anatomical structure, but also for the changing patterns of activation within the brain. In this paper, we build such an age-dependent atlas using registrations among a large number of anatomical datasets, acquired from neonatal subjects of different ages, and followed by kernel-based regression. fMRI activation data are then registered to this atlas to build a model of the development of brain networks, such as the default and motor networks, at this early age.
Closing the gap: Examining the impact of source habitat proximity on plant and soil microbial communities in post-mining spoil heap primary succession
Authors: Mészárošová Lenka , Kuťáková Eliška , Kohout Petr , Münzbergová Zuzana , Baldrian Petr
Published: April 2024

Revegetation of barren substrates is often determined by the composition and distance of the nearest plant community, serving as a source of colonising propagules. Whether such dispersal effect can be observed during the development of soil microbial communities, is not clear. In this study, we aimed to elucidate which factors structure plant and soil bacterial and fungal communities during primary succession on a limestone quarry spoil heap, focusing on the effect of distance to the adjoining xerophilous grassland.

We established a grid of 35 plots covering three successional stages – initial barren substrate, early successional community and late successional grassland ecosystem, the latter serving as the primary source of soil colonization. On these plots, we performed vegetation surveys of plant community composition and collected soil cores to analyse soil chemical properties and bacterial and fungal community composition.

The composition of early successional plant community was significantly affected by the proximity of the source late successional community, however, the effect weakened when the distance exceeded 20 m. Early successional microbial communities were structured mainly by the local plant community composition and soil chemical properties, with minimal contribution of the source community proximity.

These results show that on small spatial scales, species migration is an important determinant of plant community composition during primary succession while the establishment of soil microbial communities is not limited by dispersal and is primarily driven by local biotic and abiotic conditions.
Multicomponent depolymerization of actin filament pointed ends by cofilin and cyclase-associated protein depends upon filament age
Authors: Towsif Ekram M. , Miller Blake Andrew , Ulrichs Heidi , Shekhar Shashank
Published: April 2024

Intracellular actin networks assemble through the addition of ATP-actin subunits at the growing barbed ends of actin filaments. This is followed by “aging” of the filament via ATP hydrolysis and subsequent phosphate release. Aged ADP-actin subunits thus “treadmill” through the filament before being released back into the cytoplasmic monomer pool as a result of depolymerization at filament pointed ends. The necessity for aging before filament disassembly is reinforced by preferential binding of cofilin to aged ADP-actin subunits over newly-assembled ADP-Piactin subunits in the filament. Consequently, investigations into how cofilin influences pointed-end depolymerization have, thus far, focused exclusively on aged ADP-actin filaments. Using microfluidics-assisted Total Internal Reflection Fluorescence (mf-TIRF) microscopy, we reveal that, similar to their effects on ADP filaments, cofilin and cyclase-associated protein (CAP) also promote pointed-end depolymerization of ADP-Pifilaments. Interestingly, the maximal rates of ADP-Pifilament depolymerization by CAP and cofilin together remain approximately 20–40 times lower than for ADP filaments. Further, we find that the promotion of ADP-Pipointed-end depolymerization is conserved for all three mammalian cofilin isoforms. Taken together, the mechanisms presented here open the possibility of newly-assembled actin filaments being directly disassembled from their pointed-ends, thus bypassing the slow step of Pirelease in the aging process.
Antimicrobial activity of the BAM complex-targeting peptides against multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteria
Authors: Yoshihara Eisaku , Kakizoe Hidefumi , Umezawa Kazuo , Wakamatsu Kentaro , Asai Satomi
Published: April 2024

Multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-negative bacteria represent a notable public health threat, necessitating the urgent development of new antimicrobial agents. The β-barrel assembly machinery (BAM) complex, crucial for the biogenesis of outer membrane proteins in Gram-negative bacteria, emerges as a promising target for drug development. The BAM complex comprises five proteins (BamA–E), and its functionality might be disrupted by peptides targeting the BamA and BamB interface. We synthesized the peptide LTLR, located in the BamB interaction region with BamA inPseudomonas aeruginosa, and assessed its anti-P. aeruginosaactivity. This peptide demonstrated potential in enhancing antibiotic efficacy againstP. aeruginosa. Conversely, LRTL, a scrambled version of LTLR, lacked activity, underscoring the importance of specific target site binding for the peptide’s adjuvant effect. Subsequently, we tested the hypothesis that peptide dimerization enhances its effectiveness. A dimeric peptide, composed of two LTLR sequences, was tested and found to possess bactericidal activity againstP. aeruginosa, an outcome not observed with the monomeric form. Importantly, this dimeric peptide also showed bactericidal activity against MDRP. aeruginosastrains. In summary, our findings offer a foundation for developing novel antimicrobial agents against MDR Gram-negative bacteria.

IMPORTANCE

This work demonstrates that (1) the β-barrel assembly machinery (BAM) complex-targeting peptides can exhibit antimicrobial activity and that (2) the dimeric forms of these peptides exhibit bactericidal activity against multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains ofP. aeruginosaandA. baumannii.
Design of a dual-mode transverse deflecting structure using neural network and multiobjective algorithms
Authors: Gong H. , Fang W. , Tan J. , Huang X. , Wang C. , Xu Y. , Zhao Z.
Published: April 2024

Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility/Shanghai Soft X-ray FEL Facility is currently developing an advanced variable polarization transverse deflecting structure TTDS (two-mode transverse deflecting structure) using a dual-mode rf structure concept. Driven by two different rf power sources, this novel TDS works using both the HEM11 and HEM12 modes for simultaneous vertical and horizontal deflections, consequently, it can provide a time-varying polarization of the electrical field at ultrafast speeds. It is capable of producing circular and elliptical polarizations as well as flexible vector combinations through amplitude and phase modulation from a low-level rf system. The work presented in this paper is focused on the analysis and design of the variable polarization TDS, consisting of dual-mode cells and two dual-mode couplers. Designing and optimizing for dual-mode design and optimization is complex; consequently, an advanced optimization procedure based on neural networks and multiobjective algorithms has been developed. This improves the accuracy and efficiency of the rf structure design process. Through iterations, the dual-mode cells in the final design are optimized for high impedance and other rf performance criteria for both the HEM11 and HEM12 modes. The two couplers for rf power input and output are also optimized. Based on the optimized design and rf sensitivity analysis, the mechanical design has been completed and is now ready for manufacture.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Axion-pion scattering at finite temperature in chiral perturbation theory and its influence in axion thermalization
Authors: Wang Jin-Bao , Guo Zhi-Hui , Zhou Hai-Qing
Published: April 2024

Axion-pion scattering amplitudes at finite temperatures are calculated within chiral perturbation theory up to the one loop level. Unitarization procedure is implemented to these amplitudes in order to extend the applicable range of energy and temperature. The influence of the thermal axion-pion scattering amplitudes on the aπ→ππ cross sections and the axion thermalization rate is investigated, with the emphasis on the comparison with the zero-temperature-amplitude case. A brief discussion on the cosmological implication of the axion thermalization rate, which is calculated by using the aπ→ππ amplitudes at finite temperatures, is also given. The thermal corrections to the axion-pion scattering amplitudes can cause around a 10% shift of the determination of the axion decay constant fa and its mass ma, comparing with the results by using the aπ→ππ amplitudes at zero temperature.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Interplay between the muon
g−2
anomaly and the PTA nHZ gravitational waves from domain walls in the next-to-minimal supersymmetric standard model
Authors: Huang Ming Xia , Wang Fei , Zhang Ying Kai
Published: April 2024

With some explicitly Z3 breaking terms in the NMSSM (next-to-minimal supersymmetric standard model) effective superpotential and scalar potential, domain walls (DWs) from spontaneously breaking of the discrete symmetry in approximate Z3-invariant NMSSM can collapse and lead to observable stochastic gravitational wave (GW) background signals. In the presence of a hidden sector, such terms may originate from the geometric superconformal breaking with holomorphic quadratic correction to frame function when the global scale-invariant superpotential is naturally embedded into the canonical superconformal supergravity models. The smallness of such mass parameters in the NMSSM may be traced back to the original superconformal invariance. Naive estimations indicate that a SUSY explanation to muon g−2 anomaly can have tension with the constraints on SUSY by pulsar timing arrays data, because large SUSY contributions to Δaμ in general needs relatively light superpartners while present Ωgw0 can set the lower bounds for msoft. We calculate numerically the signatures of GWs produced from the collapse of DWs and find that the observed nHZ stochastic GW background by NANOGrav, etc., can indeed be explained with proper tiny values of χm3/2∼10−14  eV for χS2 case (and χm3/2∼10−10  eV for χHuHd case), respectively. Besides, there are still some parameter points, whose GW spectra intersect with the NANOGrav signal region, that can explain the muon g−2 anomaly to 1σ range.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Experimental Demonstration of Input-Output Indefiniteness in a Single Quantum Device
Authors: Guo Yu , Liu Zixuan , Tang Hao , Hu Xiao-Min , Liu Bi-Heng , Huang Yun-Feng , Li Chuan-Feng , Guo Guang-Can , Chiribella Giulio
Published: April 2024

Quantum theory allows information to flow through a single device in a coherent superposition of two opposite directions, resulting into situations where the input-output direction is indefinite. Here we introduce a theoretical method to witness input-output indefiniteness in a single quantum device, and we experimentally demonstrate it by constructing a photonic setup that exhibits input-output indefiniteness with a statistical significance exceeding 69 standard deviations. Our results provide a way to characterize input-output indefiniteness as a resource for quantum information and photonic quantum technologies and enable tabletop simulations of hypothetical scenarios exhibiting quantum indefiniteness in the direction of time.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Correlations between organizational change and resilience
Authors: Sawalha Ihab Hanna
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to: (1) investigate the relationship/connection between organizational change (OC) and organizational resilience (OR) and (2) provide a basis for understanding how organizational change can underpin or build organizational resilience.

Design/methodology/approach

An extensive literature review has been made to discuss the goals of OC as well as the enablers of OR. A number of conceptual models have been introduced to demonstrate the correlation between OC and OR and the potential role of OC in supporting OR. Empirical findings were also introduced in order to support the theoretical basis of this research.

Findings

This study argues that OC can be practiced for the purpose of building or supporting OR. A variety of views have been introduced to demonstrate the correlation between OC and OR and the role of OC in supporting OR.

Practical implications

The purpose and scope of OC should not only be confined to enabling organizations to respond to the dynamics of their business environments but also to enable organizations to withstand a wider range of internal disruptions, major incidents and external factors. This perspective provides a broader insight that is different from the traditional conceptualization of the goals and purpose of OC.

Originality/value

To the author’s knowledge, this is one of very few studies that discuss the correlation between OC and OR and the role of OC in building OR. This explains the need for more practical change initiatives that aim to elevate levels of OR.
The implications of economic freedom and gender ideologies on women's opportunity-to-necessity entrepreneurship
Authors: Hechavarría Diana M. , Guerrero Maribel , Terjesen Siri , Grady Azucena
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study explores the relationship between economic freedom and gender ideologies on the allocation of women’s opportunity-to-necessity entrepreneurship across countries. Opportunity entrepreneurship is typically understood as one’s best option for work, whereas necessity entrepreneurship describes the choice as driven by no better option for work. Specifically, we examine how economic freedom (i.e. each country’s policies that facilitate voluntary exchange) and gender ideologies (i.e. each country’s propensity for gendered separate spheres) affect the distribution of women’s opportunity-to-necessity entrepreneurship across countries.

Design/methodology/approach

We construct our sample by matching data from the following country-level sources: the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor’s Adult Population Survey (APS), the Fraser Institute’s Economic Freedom Index (EFI), the European/World Value Survey’s Integrated Values Survey (IVS) gender equality index, and other covariates from the IVS, Varieties of Democracy (V-dem) World Bank (WB) databases. Our final sample consists of 729 observations from 109 countries between 2006 and 2018. Entrepreneurial activity motivations are measured by the ratio of the percentage of women’s opportunity-driven total nascent and early-stage entrepreneurship to the percentage of female necessity-driven total nascent and early-stage entrepreneurship at the country level. Due to a first-order autoregressive process and heteroskedastic cross-sectional dependence in our panel, we estimate a fixed-effect regression with robust standard errors clustered by country.

Findings

After controlling for multiple macro-level factors, we find two interesting findings. First, economic freedom positively affects the ratio of women’s opportunity-to-necessity entrepreneurship. We find that the size of government, sound money, and business and credit regulations play the most important role in shaping the distribution of contextual motivations over time and between countries. However, this effect appears to benefit efficiency and innovation economies more than factor economies in our sub-sample analysis. Second, gender ideologies of political equality positively affect the ratio of women’s opportunity-to-necessity entrepreneurship, and this effect is most pronounced for efficiency economies.

Originality/value

This study offers one critical contribution to the entrepreneurship literature by demonstrating how economic freedom and gender ideologies shape the distribution of contextual motivation for women’s entrepreneurship cross-culturally. We answer calls to better understand the variation within women’s entrepreneurship instead of comparing women’s and men’s entrepreneurial activity. As a result, our study sheds light on how structural aspects of societies shape the allocation of women’s entrepreneurial motivations through their institutional arrangements.
Understanding mature students' intention to use mobile learning in higher education: integrating personality traits and UTAUT
Authors: Chau Keng Fong
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to provide new insights into the relationship between individual characteristics, particularly personality traits and mature students' intention to use (ITU) mobile learning (m-learning).

Design/methodology/approach

The research model was constructed by integrating the Big Five personality traits into the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model. The data were collected from mature students at a university research center in Macau. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to analyze the data and test the proposed hypotheses.

Findings

The results reveal that personality traits play a significant role in determining mature students' ITU m-learning technology. In particular, social influence (SI) mediates the relationship between agreeableness (AGB) and ITU.

Originality/value

This study examines how personality traits collectively influence mature students' receptiveness and intentions toward m-learning. As mature learners' motivations and preferences remain underexplored, insights into trait-technology links could address current gaps and optimize mobile educational support tailored to their distinct characteristics and needs.
Exploring the effect of dynamic capabilities on operational excellence, moderated by environmental dynamism in the apparel industry
Authors: Kovilage Manori Pathmalatha , Yapa Saman , Hewagamage Champa
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The effect of dynamic capabilities on operational excellence and the moderating effect of environmental dynamism on the relationship between operational excellence and dynamic capabilities in the apparel industry in Sri Lanka were investigated while developing new psychometric scales to assess operational excellence and dynamic capacities constructs.

Design/methodology/approach

We followed the exploratory sequential research design with a mixed-method research approach, aligning with the pragmatic research philosophy. Thus, both qualitative and quantitative research methods were followed.

Findings

Dynamic capabilities positively affect operational excellence, and environmental dynamism moderates the relationship between operational excellence and dynamic capabilities in the apparel industry in Sri Lanka such that when a higher environmental dynamism exists, a weaker positive relationship exists between dynamic capabilities and operational excellence. The two main dimensions of the operational excellence construct are continuous improvement of sustainable operational performance and sustainable competitive advantages. It empirically confirmed that sensing, seizing and reconfiguring capabilities are the three main dimensions of the dynamic capabilities construct.

Research limitations/implications

This study was limited to the apparel industry in Sri Lanka. This research phenomenon should be explored in other industrial sectors worldwide to generalize the findings. The practitioners in the apparel sector may improve the organizational dynamic capabilities to achieve operational excellence and keep a strong positive relationship between dynamic capabilities and operational excellence in a highly dynamic environment if they address out-of-family situations with out-of-the-box thinking.

Originality/value

We generated two new empirical findings: (1) dynamic capabilities positively affect operational excellence, and (2) environmental dynamism moderates the relationship between dynamic capabilities and operational excellence. Also, we introduced validated new scales for assessing operational excellence and dynamic capabilities.
Examining extra-parliamentary engagement: the impact of online and offline activities on in-party commitment amongst political party members in Finland
Authors: Koiranen Ilkka , Koivula Aki , Kuusela Anna , Saarinen Arttu
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The study utilises unique survey data gathered from 12,427 party members. The dependent variable measures party members’ in-party commitment and is based on willingness to donate money, to contribute effort, the feeling of belonging in the party network and social trust in the party network.

Design/methodology/approach

In this article, we study how different extra-parliamentary online and offline activities are associated with in-party commitment amongst political party members from the six largest Finnish parties. We especially delve into the differences between members of the Finnish parties.

Findings

We found that extra-parliamentary political activity, including connective action through social media networks and collective action through civic organisations, is highly associated with members’ in-party commitment. Additionally, members of the newer identity parties more effectively utilised social media networks, whilst the traditional interest parties were still more linked to traditional forms of extra-parliamentary political action.

Originality/value

By employing the sociological network theory perspective, the study contributes to ongoing discussions surrounding the impact of social media on political participation amongst party members, both within and beyond the confines of political parties.
Does CSR award affect sustainability assurance levels?
Authors: Ben Mohamed Mabrouka , Klibi Emna , Damak Salma
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) award and sustainability assurance levels for the French CAC 40 companies.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 57 French companies in the CAC 40 index corresponding to 448 observations was analyzed between 2008 and 2020 using an ordinal regression.

Findings

The main results conclude that the inclusion in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index World, the CSR award and the introduction of the Grenelle 2 law have a significant influence on sustainability assurance levels. However, incentive compensation does not appear to be relevant to explain sustainability assurance levels.

Research limitations/implications

The present study focuses on a sample, limited to companies belonging to the CAC 40 index. To enhance the understanding of sustainability assurance levels, this research may include other global sustainability indices, such as the MSCI World and the FTSE4Good World, in the CSR awards.

Practical implications

This study could be useful for audit practitioners, leading them to reconsider their evaluation methods and take into account CSR incentives for a more objective analysis. Regulators should investigate the current CSR issues to improve CSR disclosure standards. Finally, these findings could motivate other researchers to expand the scope of the research to diverse contexts.

Originality/value

This study helps fill the gap existing in sustainability assurance literature by highlighting the relationship between CSR rewards and sustainability assurance levels.
Keep-or-drop multidimensional control systems in professional organisations: evidence on the use of the balanced scorecard in healthcare
Authors: Prenestini Anna , Calciolari Stefano , Rota Arianna
Published: April 2024

Purpose

During the 1990s, Italian healthcare organisations (HOs) underwent a process of corporatisation, and the most innovative HOs introduced the balanced scorecard (BSC) to address the need for broader accountability. Currently, there is a limited understanding of the dynamics and outcomes of such a process. Therefore, this study aims to explore whether the BSC is still considered an effective performance management tool and analyse the factors driving and hindering its evolution and endurance in public and non-profit HOs.

Design/methodology/approach

We conducted a retrospective longitudinal analysis of two pioneering cases in the adoption of the BSC: one in a public hospital and the other in a non-profit hospital. Data collection relied on accessing institutional documents and reports from the early 2000s to the present, as well as conducting semi-structured interviews with the internal sponsors of the BSC.

Findings

We found evidence of three main categories of factors that trigger or hinder the adoption and development of the BSC: (1) the role of the internal sponsor and professionals’ commitment; (2) information technology and the controller’s technological skills; and (3) the relationship between the management and professionalism logics during the implementation process. At the same time, there is no evidence to suggest that specific technical features of the BSC influence its endurance.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the debate on the key factors for implementing and sustaining multidimensional control systems in professional organisations. It emphasises the importance of knowledge-based assets and distinctive internal capabilities for the success of the business. The implications of the BSC legacy are discussed, along with future developments of multidimensional control tools aimed at supporting strategy execution.
Navigating the labyrinth of social exclusion: a bibliometric review
Authors: Ahmad Izhan Farsha Farahana , Ahmi Aidi , Othman Nor Azairiah Fatimah , Majid Muhammad
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to provide a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of social exclusion research, examining its evolution and identifying emerging trends and influential contributions in the field.

Design/methodology/approach

Using bibliometric and thematic analysis of 3,041 Scopus database documents, the study uses tools like VOSviewer for network analysis and Biblioshiny for trend analysis, focusing on publication patterns, author contributions and thematic clusters.

Findings

The findings reveal significant growth in social exclusion research since 1979, highlighting key contributions from diverse academic fields. Notable trends include the rise of digital exclusion and environmental justice themes. The study identifies leading authors, institutions and countries contributing to this field, along with highly cited documents that have shaped the discourse on social exclusion.

Research limitations/implications

The study acknowledges its reliance on Scopus data and suggests incorporating other databases for future research. It highlights the need to explore emerging topics and address literature gaps.

Originality/value

This paper presents a unique bibliometric perspective on social exclusion research, underscoring its interdisciplinary nature and evolving focus. The study’s comprehensive approach offers valuable insights into the field’s trajectory, contributing to a deeper understanding of social exclusion phenomena.
Empowering educational policy management: understanding student emotions and sentiments
Authors: Dip Juan Antonio
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Using sentiment analysis (SA), this study aims to examine the impact of COVID-19 on mental health and virtual learning experiences among 1,125 students at a public Argentinean faculty.

Design/methodology/approach

A study was conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic, surveying 1,125 students to gather their opinions. The survey data was analysed using text mining tools and SA. SA was used to extract the students’ emotions, views and feelings computationally and identify co-occurrences and patterns in related words. The study also examines educational policies implemented after the pandemic.

Findings

The prevalent emotions expressed in the comments were trust, sadness, anticipation and fear. A combination of trust and fear resulted in submission. Negative comments often included the words “virtual”, “virtual classroom”, “virtual classes” and “professor”. Two significant issues were identified: teachers’ inexperience with virtual classes and inadequate server infrastructure, leading to frequent crashes. The most effective educational policies addressed vital issues related to the “virtual classroom”.

Practical implications

Text mining and SA are valuable tools for decision-making during uncertain times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. They can also provide insights to recover quality assurance processes at universities impacted by health concerns or external shocks.

Originality/value

The paper makes two main contributions: it conducts a SA to gain insights from comments and analyses the relationship between emotions and sentiments to identify optimal educational policies. The study pioneers exploring the link between emotions, policies and the pandemic at a public university in Argentina. This area of research still needs to be explored.
Understanding the role of organizational intellectual capital on developing absorptive capacity to strategize innovation ambidexterity
Authors: Huma Sehrish , Muslim Sidra , Ahmed Waqar
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to empirically investigate the impact of organizational intellectual capital (IC) components on absorptive capacity (ACAP) such as potential absorptive capacity (PACAP) and realized absorptive capacity (RACAP). Furthermore, it attempts to investigate the mechanism through which PACAP and RACAP jointly influence innovation strategies (i.e.) exploitative and exploratory innovations.

Design/methodology/approach

This is an explanatory research using a deductive approach. This study uses survey data from 184 manufacturing export firms analyzed through partial least squares structural equation modelling.

Findings

The results have found that the cognitive and social capital of a firm positively affects PACAP and RACAP, whereas relational capital has a significant effect on RACAP. Moreover, the study reveals that both potential and realized absorptive capacities considerably lead to the development of organizational exploitative and exploratory innovation strategies.

Research limitations/implications

The research focused on two driving factors, i.e. IC components and ACAP dimensions, and overlooked how each component of IC and ACAP influences ambidextrous innovative strategy.

Practical implications

Providing managers with insights about the critical role of developing IC to facilitate the transfer and exchange of crucial absorptive capacity necessary for ambidextrous innovative strategy.

Originality/value

This study makes a significant contribution to the existing literature by highlighting the importance of ACAP and provides useful insights for firms in developing economies to improve their exploitative and exploratory innovation capability. This study likewise reveals the significance of the four dimensions of IC, which can facilitate bringing in knowledge from developing economies.
Effects of distance from the sea and bedrock on foliar mineral contents in Japanese forests: Implications for mineral acquisition by folivores
Authors: Hanya Goro , Kato Shogo , Kitamura Shumpei , Kurihara Yosuke , Honda Takeaki , Suzumura Takafumi , Ohta Tamihisa
Published: April 2024

Minerals are among the important nutritional components that are indispensable for animals. In particular, the acquisition of sodium is important for plant‐feeding animals because sodium may be deficient for these animals as plants do not need sodium. This study compiled data on the mineral contents of leaves in 28 forests in Japan, with special emphasis on the effect of distance from the sea and bedrock type. The aim of this study was to provide basic data on mineral availability for forest‐dwelling folivores, which provide important baseline data for understanding the mineral acquisition strategy of plant‐feeding animals. Sodium and phosphorus contents of live leaves were lower than the levels required for folivores (captive non‐human primates and ungulates). The effect of the distance from the sea was evident only for magnesium and sodium. The sodium content of live leaves was high enough to satisfy folivores' requirements at only a few hundred meters from the sea. The live leaves in forests growing on sedimentary bedrocks contained more minerals than those on granite/rhyolite. Seasonality was also evident based on repeated sampling at three study sites. The mineral contents of dead leaves at the three study sites showed similar inter‐site and inter‐season variations to those of live leaves. Phosphorus and potassium contents in dead leaves were consistently lower and iron content was consistently higher than in live leaves.
The impact of ocean warming on selected commercial fisheries in New Zealand
Authors: Mediodia Hanny John , Noy Ilan , Kahui Viktoria
Published: April 2024

Warming oceans affect the growth, reproduction and location of fish species. Using a bioeconomic framework, we estimate the relationship between sea surface temperature (SST) and the catch of de facto open‐access commercial fisheries of flatfish, trevally and jack mackerel in New Zealand. Assuming either a logarithmic or quadratic relationship between the SST and the carrying capacity of the fish stock, we consider three fishing methods (bottom trawl, set net and midwater trawl) and two measures of effort (count and duration). We show that ocean warming results in an increase in catch for all species if we assume a logarithmic relationship, with the highest marginal product of SST () for jack mackerel caught using midwater trawl. The highest marginal revenue product (computed by the MPSST, current price and fished area) is found for flatfish caught by set net. However, when assuming a quadratic relationship, there is a threshold above which catch starts to decrease, with the maximum catch of species ranging between 10 and 12.2°C. These results also vary spatially, with higher values of MPSST observed in areas closer to the South Pole. Our findings are relevant for any review of fisheries management systems in response to ocean warming.
Short waits, happy patients and expert care, moving basic musculoskeletal care from the emergency department to a physiotherapist‐led diversion pathway
Authors: Truter Piers , Flanagan Pippa , Waller Robert , Richards Karen , Makate Marshall , Johnstone Anthony , Bongiascia Luke , Spilsbury Katrina , Cavalheri Vinicius , Lin Ivan
Published: April 2024

Objective

Patients with musculoskeletal conditions (MSKCs) are highly prevalent in ED. This project explores the impact of the pilot phase of a ‘diversion pathway’, which directed patients with MSKCs from the ED waiting room to an outpatient clinic led by advanced‐scope physiotherapists.

Methods

A prospective intervention study comparing care outcomes between patients in the ‘diversion pathway’ with usual ED care. The characteristics of patients considered eligible and non‐eligible are described.

Results

Between May and December 2022, 1099 patients were diverted. For diverted patients, mean length of stay (LOS) in ED was reduced by 110 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 99–120) min and 4 h rule compliance improved by 19.3% compared to usual ED care. There were fewer patients who ‘did not wait’ (DNW) with the diversion pathway. The diverted group was young (median age 22 years and 41% paediatric), mostly low urgency, self‐referred and arrived by private transport with minor limb trauma. The diversion pathway triage process appropriately identified 182 patients ineligible for diversion. 96.7% of patients reported satisfaction with care received from the diversion pathway. There was no change in ED representation rates for diverted patients.

Conclusions

A new pathway resulted in reduced LOS, reduced DNW, high patient satisfaction and more people being discharged within 4 h for diverted patients compared to usual ED care. The pathway increased ED capacity, improved key ED performance metrics and safely expedited care delivery for patients.
Investigating the predictive factors of thoracic aortic invasion and surgical outcomes in patients with primary lung cancer: A retrospective study
Authors: Ichinokawa Hideomi , Takamochi Kazuya , Fukui Mariko , Hattori Aritoshi , Matsunaga Takeshi , Suzuki Kenji
Published: April 2024

Background

This study aimed to investigate predictors of thoracic aortic invasion in lung cancer patients using preoperative clinical and imaging characteristics and elucidate surgical outcomes in cases of aortic invasion.

Methods

Of the 4751 lung cancer patients who underwent surgery at our hospital, we included 126 (6.8%) who underwent left‐sided surgery and in whom tumor appeared to be in contact with the thoracic aorta on preoperative imaging. The patients were divided into two groups: group A, 23 patients (18%) who underwent combined aortic resection (+); group B, 103 patients (82%) who did not undergo combined aortic resection (−).

Results

The percentage of aortic invasion for tumor diameter <3 cm, 3–4 cm, 4–5 cm, 5–7 cm, and >7 cm was 0%, 13%, 23%, 16%, and 35%, respectively. The percentages of aortic invasion were 27%, 16%, and 0% for tumor localization in the upper division, S6, and S10, respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed that aortic depression due to tumor or loss of fatty tissue between tumor and mediastinum in the chest CT significantly predicted aortic invasion (odds ratio = 23.83, 16.66). Group A demonstrated significantly more blood loss, longer operative time, prolonged hospital stay, and increased percentage of recurrent nerve palsy (13%) compared to group B. The 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year survival rates for patients in group A were 53.4%, 24.3%, and 24.3%, respectively.

Conclusion

If the chest CT of a patient demonstrates aortic depression due to tumor or loss of fatty tissue between tumor and mediastinum, aortic complications should be considered when planning surgery.
Morphological and radiographic studies on the Manus region in the Arabian one‐humped camel (Camelus dromedaries)
Authors: Yousef Abanoub T. , Hussein Mohamed K. , Hamed Mohamed A. , Farrag Foad , Abumandour Mohamed , Hamoda Hazem
Published: April 2024

The study aims to analyse the normal anatomical and radiographical features of the Manus of the southern Aswanian‐adapted Arabian one‐humped camel, providing crucial data for diagnosing and treating various ailments. Our study was applied to 10 cadaver forelimbs of adult male one‐humped camels (4–5 years old) for an explanation of the gross anatomy of the bones of the Manus region from under the carpal bones by using traditional techniques, including the gross anatomical, radiographic and x‐ray (at the dorsopalmar and lateral planes) of the preparation of Manus bones. Our results showed that the large fused (third and fourth) metacarpal bones, in which the fusion extended along the entire length of the bone except at the distal end, diverged to form separate articulations with cross‐ponding digits. As described in all ruminant species, especially the camel, there were two digits, and each digit consisted of three phalanges and two proximal sesamoid bones. Our radiographic x‐ray data revealed that the complete radiopaque septum that completely divided the medullary cavity into two separate parts was clear from the dorsopalmar view, while the lateral view showed the proximal sesamoid bones that were placed over each other and located palmar to the head of the large metacarpal bone. In conclusion, our study reveals the adaptations of the Arabian one‐humped camel to Egyptian conditions, aiding in the early diagnosis of lameness and digit problems and enabling veterinarians and camel owners to better address these issues, thereby improving the overall health and well‐being of these animals.
Child behaviour is a main concern for parents of 3‐year‐olds
Authors: Hjern Anders , Lindfors Anncharlotte , Sarkadi Anna , Bergqvist Kersti , Bergström Malin
Published: April 2024

Aim

The aim of this study was to describe parental concerns about child health and behaviour and their sociodemographic predictors in 3‐year‐olds, in relation to the national guidelines of well‐baby clinics.

Methods

The study included parents of 33 526 children in Stockholm who had completed a questionnaire prior to a routine visit to a well‐baby clinic at age 3 years. Multivariate regression was used to analyse predictors for concerns.

Results

Child behaviour problems, defined as defiance and problem with adherence to daily routines, were the most common parental concerns (36.4%), with poor social skills and relations being second (21.8%). Regarding development, 9.6% had concerns about speech and 4.7% about motor development. Screen use (9.5%) and being underweight (6.3%) were other common parental concerns, while lifestyle concerns regarding physical activity and overweight were rare. Parents raised about twice as many concerns for first‐born children compared with younger siblings. Child behaviour and developmental concerns were more frequent in families where the mother had primary education only and attended a well‐baby clinic with a high Care Need Index.

Conclusion

Parents' concerns reflected the national guidelines about child development and behaviour, but not its emphasis on a healthy lifestyle.