bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unusually high frequency of dengue cases with warning signs in patients with no history of previous dengue infection at the Santa Rosa Hospital in the city of Lima
Authors: Durand Solomon , Wong Nadia , Briceño Estefanía , Delgado Raquel , Sánchez Yolanda , Huamani Maria , Fabian Judith , Flores Jean , Contreras Pedro
Published: February 2025

Introduction

In2024, a dengue epidemic affected the city of Lima, a city of more than 10 million inhabitants, for the first time. The Santa Rosa hospital treated more than 5000 febrile patients between January and July 2024, identifying 1788 patients with dengue, 18.6% of them with warning signs or serious, despite being the first infection for them. In order to know the factors related to this unusually high frequency of cases with warning signs and severity in a group of patients who were infected for the first time, this study was developed.

Methodology

The epidemiological records were reviewed and contrasted with the information from the hospital’s emergency care records. The laboratory results were obtained from the laboratories of the hospital and reference in Lima.

Results

Between January and July 2024, 5,862 febrile patients presented to the hospital emergency room, 1788 were considered cases of dengue. Nine cases (0.5%) were classified as severe dengue and 324 (18.1%) as dengue with warning signs. 4 died. 9.3% of patients over 65 years of age presented some warning or severity sign, while 6.4% of patients under 65 years of age presented warning signs (P 0.05). Only 2.5% (45/1788) responded that they had previously had dengue, but there was no difference between those who presented warning signs or severity.

Conclusions

In conclusion, the dengue epidemic in Lima reached a greater severity than expected despite being the first infection for the affected population, a new massive outbreak and the entry of a new serotype could further increase the severity of the cases.
Modeling Monkeypox Epidemics: Thresholds, Temporal Dynamics, and Waning Immunity from Smallpox Vaccination”
Authors: Yaga Samaila Jackson
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the dynamics of Monkeypox virus (MPXV) through a novel theoretical framework that extends classical epidemic threshold theory. The dual threshold theory is introduced, highlighting the interplay between the time-dependent basic reproduction number and the susceptible population density. Epidemic initiation is shown to occur when the time dependent reproductive number is greater than the threshold value of one and the susceptible population density at any time is greater than the critical threshold density of susceptibles. The model incorporates waning immunity from prior smallpox vaccination and immunity loss from previous MPXV infections, revealing complex epidemic behaviors such as oscillatory waves, prolonged outbreaks, and extended inter-epidemic periods under high transmission scenarios. Sensitivity analyses identify key drivers of epidemic initiation and progression, emphasizing the critical influence of waning immunity and zoonotic reservoirs. Public health implications underline the importance of targeted vaccination campaigns, rodent control, and continuous surveillance to reduce epidemic risks and prevent resurgence. This study provides actionable insights for managing MPXV outbreaks, while the dual threshold framework offers a robust theoretical foundation for understanding the dynamics of waning of vaccine cross immunity and zoonotic diseases.
Failing maternal-fetal tolerance in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (FaMaLE): a prospective cohort study for finding the molecular mechanisms behind pregnancy complications
Authors: Dankers W. , van Ruitenbeek J.F. , Germe S.A. , Sanchez A.R. Parra , van Gaal M.F.H.M. , de Boer M.A. , van Baarsen L.G.M. , Bultink I.E.M.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Pregnant women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have an increased risk of maternal complications and adverse fetal outcomes. These include preeclampsia, preterm birth and fetal growth restriction. Interestingly, this increased risk persists in subsequent pregnancies, whereas it decreases in healthy women due to the development of maternal-fetal tolerance. As maternal-fetal tolerance is crucial for a healthy pregnancy, we hypothesize that its failure contributes to the increased risk of pregnancy complications in women with SLE. Therefore, we initiated the FaMaLE study to investigate the failure of maternal-fetal tolerance in pregnant women with SLE.

Methods and analysis

In the FaMaLE study, healthy women and women with SLE are included in their first trimester of pregnancy (< 14 weeks gestational age (GA)) at Amsterdam UMC. Throughout the pregnancy, data on SLE disease progression, pregnancy course, and medication use are collected. Peripheral blood is collected once per trimester, within 48 hours before delivery and 5-12 weeks post-partum. In addition, the placenta is collected after delivery. Whole blood, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and placenta samples are freshly analyzed by flow cytometry to assess immune cell composition. The resulting data are analyzed in relation to SLE disease course, pregnancy course and pregnancy outcomes.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been approved by the Amsterdam UMC Medical Ethics Committee and all participating women will be asked to provide informed consent. The findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, presentations at scientific meetings and via patient organizations.

STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES

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A unique prospective longitudinal study design, featuring the collection of serum, plasma and PBMC throughout and after pregnancy, alongside placental cells and biopsies from the same participants. This is complemented by detailed clinical data on SLE disease course and pregnancy course, and outcomes.

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Fresh flow cytometry analyses allow immediate assessment of cell composition in blood and placenta, without freeze/thawing effects

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The study does not include pre-pregnancy collection of serum, plasma and PBMC; however detailed clinical data are collected during this period.
Evaluating the economic and health impact of proactive genomic epidemiology in a hospital setting
Authors: Hertz Frederik Boetius , Nielsen Karen Leth , Strunin Dmytro , Erdmann Jelena , Jørgensen Martin Lucas , Bendixen Theiss , Srinathan Roshkan , Marvig Rasmus L. , Rasmussen Steen Christian , Rasmussen Asger Nellemann , Jensen Christian Salgaard , Knudsen Jenny Dahl , Häussler Susanne
Published: February 2025

Background

Genomic epidemiology which combines whole genome sequencing (WGS) of bacterial isolates with patient movement data, promises improved detection, prevention, and management of infection transmission, enhancing patient safety and reducing healthcare costs. However, evidence on its cost-effectiveness and clinical utility remains limited, as initial studies were restricted to selected pathogens and based on extrapolated assumptions from partial WGS data.

Methods

We conducted a 28-month observational study at Rigshospitalet, a 1 200-bed tertiary hospital in Copenhagen. The study involved collecting patient movement and WGS data for clinical isolates of 19 bacterial species, regardless of their site of isolation, or antibiotic susceptibility profile. This included sequencing of 18 940 clinical isolates from 7 760 patients.

Findings

We found that 27·1 % of culture-positive hospitalized patients harboured a pathogen genetically related to another patient’s isolate. 69 % had an epidemiological link, indicating transmission between patients, withEnterococcus faeciumbeing the most prevalent. Notably, there were 2·2 times more transmissions of antibiotic-susceptible than resistant isolates. We estimated that prevention based on genomic epidemiology could potentially generate net savings of €1·25 million annually and avoid more than 750 disability adjusted life years (DALYs).

Interpretation

Our holistic, proactive genomic epidemiology approach reveals previously unexplored transmission landscapes. We discovered that transmission is widespread, varies significantly between species, and is not limited to resistant isolates. Our results highlight the potential for WGS-informed infection control, greater savings by including susceptible isolates, and an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) classification by pathogen species.

Funding

Novo Nordisk Foundation, Beta.Health, Den Frie Forskningsfond
Context-dependent effects of microbial inoculation on sagebrush seedlings during drought stress
Authors: Heil Jacob A. , Geisler Mathew , Skinner Maddy , DeFehr Chadwick , Arogundade Adedotun , Finney Bruce , Bittleston Leonora S.
Published: February 2025

The leaf microbiome interacts with its plant host and can have critical positive and negative effects on plant health. However, the interactions between leaf microbiomes and host plants remain understudied, particularly in reference to context-dependency, e.g., during drought conditions. Plants naturally exist in environments with ever-changing weather and epiphytic foliar microbes are often exposed to extreme conditions. Little is known about how different environmental contexts can alter the effects of phyllosphere microbes on their plant hosts. In this study, we measured the response of seedlings to microbial inoculations and drought conditions. We usedArtemisia tridentatasubsp.tridentata(hereafter, sagebrush), a foundation species in the vast and critically threatened sagebrush steppe ecosystem. We grew sagebrush plants in growth chambers from sterile seed and after 6 months the seedlings were inoculated in one of four inoculation treatments: (1) no inoculant, (2) sterile water, (3) the microbes washed from the surface of the leaves (a whole natural community), and (4) the single species,Bacillus amyloliquefaciens. We then exposed the seedlings to two environmental treatments: regular watering and a tapered drought. We found context-dependent effects of inoculation on seedling health for both of our inoculation microbial treatments. For example, both inoculants had a negative effect on host plant photosynthesis, which was lessened drought conditions. Furthermore, seedlings inoculated withB. amyloliquefacienshad increased leaf nitrogen levels, and the highest survival under drought conditions. Our study shows that seedling health and survival can be influenced by leaf-associated microbes, and is dependent on environmental context.
A privileged ER compartment for post-translational heteromeric assembly of an ion channel
Authors: Kannan Sudharsan , Kasberg William , Ernandez Liliana R. , Audhya Anjon , Robertson Gail A.
Published: February 2025

Mechanisms underlying heterotypic subunit assembly of ion channels and other oligomeric assemblies are poorly understood. In the human heart, heteromeric assembly of two isoforms encoded by thehuman ether-à-go-go related gene(hERG) is essential for the normal function of cardiac IKrin ventricular repolarization, with loss of hERG1b contributing to arrhythmias associated with long QT-syndrome. While hERG1a homomers traffic efficiently to the plasma membrane, hERG1b homomers are retained in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). When expressed together, the two subunits avidly associate during biogenesis. Seeking rules specifying heteromeric association, we characterized the fate of hERG1b proteins using confocal and superresolution imaging in fixed and live HeLa cells. We found hERG1b sequestered in punctate intracellular structures when expressed alone in HeLa cells. These puncta, driven by an N-terminal “RXR” ER retention signal and phase separation, are distinct from other membranous compartments and proteasomal degradation pathways. The puncta represent a privileged ER sub-compartment distinct from that of ER-retained, type 2 (hERG-based) LQTS mutant proteins, which were rapidly degraded by the proteasome. Introducing hERG1a to cells with preformed hERG1b puncta dissolved these puncta by rescuing extant hERG1b. Rescue occurs by association of fully translated hERG1b with 1a, a surprising finding given previous studies demonstrating cotranslational heteromeric association. We propose that sequestration limits potentially deleterious surface expression of hERG1b homomeric channels while preserving hERG1b for an alternative mode of heteromeric hERG1a/1b channel assembly post-translationally. These findings reveal a surprising versatility of biosynthetic pathways promoting heteromeric assembly.
INTERMUSCULAR ADIPOSE TISSUE AND MUSCLE FUNCTION IN PATIENTS ON MAINTENANCE HEMODIALYSIS
Authors: Dilaver R. Gulsah , Demirci Mert , Crescenzi Rachelle , Pridmore Michael , Ertuglu Lale A. , Guide Andrew , Greevy Robert , Roshanravan Baback , Alp Ikizler T. , Gamboa Jorge L.
Published: February 2025

Background and Aims

Sarcopenia, defined as a loss in muscle mass and strength, is common in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD), leading to poor outcomes. Intermuscular adipose tissue (IMAT) accumulation is associated with metabolic and functional abnormalities in chronic disease conditions. This study assesses IMAT in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients and its association with metabolic markers and physical performance.

Methods and Results

We performed a cross-sectional study comparing MHD patients with controls. IMAT accumulation was measured by analyzing the fat-to-muscle ratio of the calf muscles through Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans. Body composition and metabolic markers were assessed (hs-CRP, TNF-α, IL-6, and insulin resistance). Circulating cell-free mitochondrial DNA (ccf-mtDNA) was quantified using qRT-PCR. Muscle function was evaluated with handgrip strength. Inverse propensity weighted (IPW) method was used to test the difference between IMAT levels of the groups. Twenty-five MHD patients and 23 controls were analyzed. The MHD group had higher IMAT accumulation than controls (p < 0.01). IMAT was positively correlated with Body Mass Index (BMI) and fat mass index (FMI) in controls. MHD patients exhibited elevated TNF-α, IL-6, and hs-CRP levels (p < 0.01). Positive correlations were found between IMAT and IL-6 in MHD patients and between IMAT and TNF-α in controls. Handgrip strength was negatively correlated with IMAT in the entire cohort (p <0.01).

Conclusion

Our findings highlight the potential role of IMAT in muscle catabolism and functional decline in advanced CKD. Targeting IMAT could be a valuable strategy for improving health outcomes in this population.
Under the cover of darkness: how clubroot disease affectsArabidopsis thalianaphysiology during the night
Authors: Garvetto Andrea , Auer Susann , Benade Freia , Hittorf Michaela , Ludwig-Müller Jutta , Neuhauser Sigrid
Published: February 2025

Background

Plasmodiophora brassicae(Phytomyxea, Rhizaria) is the etiological agent of clubroot disease, one of the most important diseases of Brassicaceae crops. Alteration of metabolism and hormone homeostasis leads to the formation of tumor-like galls in the root system of affected plants. Host plant energy metabolism and developmental processes are under strong temporal control exhibiting differences between day and night. The very same processes are affected by clubroot, but the effect of the infection on the host plant in the night has never been investigated. This study uses time-resolved transcriptome analyses to explore howP. brassicaeaffectsA. thalianain the night during intermediate (14 DAI) and late (21 DAI) infection.

Results

Day-night differences in gene expression were more pronounced in younger rather than older plants in our differential gene expression (DGE) analysis, regardless of infection status. Consequently, intermediate phases of infection showed more day-night differences than later ones. Clustering of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in functional categories highlighted how some of the typical processes known to be disrupted by clubroot infection are more significantly affected in the night and also uncovered some disrupted exclusively in the night. Among these, RNA modification stood out as the most unambiguously highly upregulated process in infectedArabidopsisroots in the night. Analysis of the interaction between clubroot infection and diel oscillations in gene expression also showed a higher interplay between clubroot and time in younger plants, where many genes lost their normal day/night oscillations during the infection. Interestingly, few genes central to the plant circadian clock were found to be affected and lost their normal rhythmicity with the infection.

Conclusions

P. brassicaeinduces night time specific changes in gene expression during the metabolically active phases of the infection. In addition, the infection does affect rhythmic gene expression in plants including core genes of the circadian clock. Time-resolved datasets could help to better understand the interaction betweenP. brassicaeand its hosts and constitute the first step for the investigation of clubroot-induced changes in rhythmic gene expression.
SRS microscopy identifies inhibition of vitellogenesis as a mediator of lifespan extension by caloric restriction inC. elegans
Authors: Yang Bowen , Manifold Bryce , Han Wuji , DeSousa Catherin , Zhu Wanyi , Streets Aaron , Titov Denis V.
Published: February 2025

The molecular mechanisms of aging are not fully understood. Here, we used label-free Stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) microscopy to investigate changes in proteins and lipids throughout the lifespan ofC. elegans. We observed a dramatic buildup of proteins within the body cavity or pseudocoelom of aged adults that was blunted by interventions that extend lifespan: caloric restriction (CR) and the reduced insulin/insulin-like growth factor signaling (IIS) pathway. Using a combination of microscopy, proteomic analysis, and validation with mutant strains, we identified vitellogenins as the key molecular components of the protein buildup in the pseudocoelom. Vitellogenins shuttle nutrients from intestine to embryos and are homologous to human apolipoprotein B, the causal driver of cardiovascular disease. We then showed that CR and knockdown of vitellogenins both extend lifespan by >60%, but their combination has no additional effect on lifespan, suggesting that CR extends the lifespan ofC. elegansin part by inhibiting vitellogenesis. The extensive dataset of more than 12,000 images stitched into over 350 whole-animal SRS images ofC. elegansat different ages and subjected to different longevity intervention will be a valuable resource for researchers interested in aging.
Socio-Demographic Bias in Large Language Models Alters Ethical Decision-Making in Healthcare
Authors: Sorin Vera , Korfiatis Panagiotis , Collins Jeremy D. , Apakama Donald , Glicksberg Benjamin S. , Nadkarni Girish N. , Klang Eyal
Published: February 2025

Objective

Large language models (LLMs) are increasingly applied in healthcare. However, their ethical alignment remains uncertain. We tested whether LLMs shift ethical priorities in health-related scenarios under different socio-demographic modifiers, focusing on autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, justice, and utilitarianism.

Methods

We created 100 clinical scenarios, each requiring a yes/no choice between two conflicting principles. We tested nine LLMs, each with and without 53 socio-demographic modifiers, repeating each scenario-modifier combination 10 times per model (for a total of 0.5M prompts). We measured how often each principle was chosen.

Results

All models changed their responses when socio-demographic details were introduced (p<0.001). Justice and nonmaleficence were each prioritized in over 30% of responses. Utilitarianism ranged from 6.7% (CI: 6.2-7.2%) for a “Black Transgender woman (she/her)” to 17.0% (CI: 16.3-17.8%) for “Billionaires”, across models and modifiers. High-income modifiers increased utilitarian choices while lowering beneficence and nonmaleficence. Marginalized-group modifiers raised autonomy prioritization. Some models were more consistent than others, but none maintained consistency across all scenarios.

Conclusions

LLMs can be influenced by socio-demographic cues and do not always maintain stable ethical priorities, with the greatest shifts seen in utilitarian choices. Our findings reveal that socio-demographic cues systematically alter LLM ethical decision-making, raising concerns about algorithmic fairness in healthcare.
Phenotypic Changes in Undifferentiated and Retinoic Acid Differentiated HL-60/S4 Cells with-or-without LBR Knockdown
Authors: Olins Ada L. , Welch David Mark , Prudovsky Igor , Olins Donald E.
Published: February 2025

Many functions of the nuclear envelope protein LBR (Lamin B Receptor) have been documented. LBR influences the shape of the nuclear envelope via its connections to underlying heterochromatin and to the lamina. LBR also functions as an essential enzyme in sterol biosynthesis. This study attempts to further define the LBR gene functions in a LBR knockdown cell line (HL-60/sh1), by employing Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) to explore: Part 1) the effects of LBR knockdown on cell differentiation to granulocytes induced by retinoic acid (RA); Part 2) the effects of LBR knockdown on phenotypic differences between undifferentiated HL-60/sh1 and undifferentiated control cell lines (HL-60/S4 and HL-60/gfp). These GSEA studies are based upon previously published mRNA transcriptome data. In Part 1, the most significant effects were the increasedlossof heterochromatin and the decreased histone methyltransferase activity in RA-differentiated HL-60/sh1 granulocytes, compared to HL-60/S4 and HL-60/gfp granulocytes. In addition, HL-60/sh1 ribosome structural protein transcripts were moreincreasedduring granulocyte differentiation, than observed in HL-60/S4 and HL-60/gfp. For many predicted phenotypes (e.g., senescence, migration, chemotaxis, phagocytosis and apoptosis), no significant differences were observed among the three granulocytic cell lines. In Part 2, comparisons were mainly betweenundifferentiatedHL-60/sh1 and HL-60/S4 cells. We noted a significant increase in ribosomal protein and ribosomal RNA synthesis in sh1 0 versus to S4 0 cells. Of further interest, we observed that the position and number of nucleoli per cell appeared to differ between these two undifferentiated cell lines. In addition, GSEA results indicated a significantgainin heterochromatin and nucleosome formation in sh1 0 versus S4 0 cells. Microscopic imaging of undifferentiated sh1 0 cells compared to S4 0 cells indicated increased DAPI stained chromatin condensates surrounding the frequently central nucleoli, possibly reflecting the increased heterochromatin and the decreased LBR. Furthermore, the sh1 0 cell nuclei appeared “rounder” than the S4 0 cell nuclei. Evidence is presented supporting that the LINC Complex (“Linker of Nucleoskeleton and Cytoskeleton”) may play a role.
Horizontal gene transfer of the functional archaellum machinery to Bacteria
Authors: Sivabalasarma Shamphavi , Taib Najwa , Mollat Clara L , Joest Marie , Steimle Stefan , Gribaldo Simonetta , Albers Sonja-Verena
Published: February 2025

Motility in Archaea is driven by a nanomachinery called the archaellum. So far, archaella have been exclusively described for the archaeal domain; however, a recent study reported the presence of archaellum gene clusters in bacterial strains of the SAR202 clade (Chloroflexota). Here, we show that bona fide archaellum gene clusters are widespread in several members of the Chloroflexota, which in turn lack any bacterial flagellar components. Analysis of archaellum encoding loci and predicted structures show remarkable similarity to the archaellum machinery. Moreover, using cryoEM single particle analysis, we solved the structure of the bacterial archaellum from Litorilinea aerophila, demonstrating the successful expression and assembly of this machinery in Bacteria and its function in swimming motility. Finally, a phylogenomic analysis revealed two horizontal gene transfer events from euryarchaeal members to Chloroflexota. In summary, our study demonstrates that a functional and assembled archaellum machinery can be successfully exchanged between the two prokaryotic domains.
Ultra-high throughputin vitrotranslation assay for identification ofTrypanosoma cruzi-specificprotein synthesis inhibitors
Authors: Mantovani Camila Colombari , Moraes Carolina Borsoi , dos Santos Guilherme Rodrigo Reis , Aktas Bertal Huseyin , Schenkman Sergio
Published: February 2025

Chagas disease, a global health threat exacerbated by the migration of infected individuals, raises significant concern due to its restricted treatment options, resulting in around 12,000 fatalities annually. The disease is caused byTrypanosoma cruzi,a protozoan parasite.T. cruzipossesses a divergent translation apparatus, characterized by enlarged ribosomes and a unique mRNA cap appended to the 5’ end of a 39-nucleotide spliced leader inserted upstream of all its mRNAs. Given that many anti-microbial agents are protein synthesis inhibitors and the divergence ofT. cruziprotein synthetic machinery compared to its mammalian host, it is likely thatT. cruzi-specificprotein synthesis inhibitors can be employed for the treatment of Chagas disease. Such inhibitors can be identified by screening chemical libraries in anin vitrotranslation assay. However, lysates ofT. cruzicannot reinitiate translation of exogenous mRNAs. Here, we demonstrate thatT. cruziextracts derived from a strain deficient for hemin accumulation efficiently translate a capped and polyadenylated reporter mRNA. We optimized this assay’s conditions and adapted it to a 384-well format. In a proof of principle pilot study, we identified quinazoline compounds that inhibit translation of reporter mRNAsby T. cruziextracts. These compounds inhibited protein synthesis in live wild-type parasites. We further miniaturized this assay to a 5 µL volume, demonstrating its suitability for ultra-high throughput screening in a 1536-well format with appropriate automation. This first-of-its-kindT. cruzi ultra-high-throughput in vitrotranslation assay will enable screening of very large chemical libraries while hit compounds identified in the pilot study can be developed into lead compounds by synthesis and/or assembly of focused libraries to develop therapeutics for Chagas disease.
A trehalase-derived MAMP triggers LecRK-V-mediated immune responses in Arabidopsis
Authors: Iino Erika , Kadota Yasuhiro , Maki Noriko , Ono Erika , Sato Kazuki , Ishihama Nobuaki , Ngou Bruno Pok Man , Schmid Marc W , Suzuki Takamasa , Uehara Taketo , Shirasu Ken
Published: February 2025

Plant-parasitic nematodes (PPNs) cause major agricultural losses worldwide, yet the molecular basis of plant immunity against these pathogens remains poorly understood. To investigate how plants recognize PPNs, we aimed to identify microbe-associated molecular patterns (MAMPs) from nematodes and the corresponding plant immune components. Due to the limited availability of material from obligate PPNs, we usedCaenorhabditis elegans, a free-living nematode, as a MAMP source.C. elegansextracts activated MAMP-triggered immune responses inArabidopsisCol-0. Through chromatography-based purification, we identified a secreted trehalase and pinpointed a conserved peptide region essential for its MAMP activity. A corresponding peptide from root-knot nematode trehalase enabled the identification of lectin receptor kinases LecRK-V.5 and LecRK-V.6 as key components in immune induction. Notably, this peptide region is conserved across insect and fungal pathogens, with LecRK-Vs required for immune responses to these peptides, highlighting the role of LecRK-V-mediated mechanism for broad-spectrum pathogen detection via trehalase-derived peptides.

Teaser

Trehalase-derived peptides trigger LecRK-V-mediated immune responses in plants, enabling broad detection of nematodes, insects, and fungi.
Compound nucleus formation cross sections in lead-induced reactions
Authors: Denisov V. Yu.
Published: February 2025

The formation of the compound nucleus in heavy-ion collisions is considered in two steps. The first step is related to the penetration of the ions through the capture barrier, the formation of the sticking nuclei in the capture well, and the transfer of kinetic energy of relative motion into the intrinsic energy of the sticking nuclei. The second step is associated with the compound-nucleus formation from the sticking nuclei in competition to the quasielastic scattering. The compound nucleus is preferably formed when the height of the compound nucleus formation barrier is substantially smaller than the height of the quasielastic barrier. This leads to the values of the capture and compound nucleus formation cross sections being close. In contrast, the formation of the compound nuclei is suppressed when the height of the compound-nucleus formation barrier is close to or larger than that of the quasielastic barrier. In this case, the capture cross sections are greater than the compound-nucleus formation cross sections. The suppression of the compound-nucleus formation is increased with the mass and charge of ions colliding with lead because the quasielastic barrier height obtained relative to the compound nucleus ground state is decreased with the mass and charge of ions colliding with lead and the role of the compound-nucleus formation barrier rises. The dependence of the compound-nucleus formation suppression on the shell-correction energy of the compound nucleus is shown. The available experimental data for 14 heavy-ion reactions induced by lead are well described in the model.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Modeling beam chromaticity for high-resolution CMB analyses
Authors: Giardiello S. , Duivenvoorden A. J. , Calabrese E. , Galloni G. , Hasselfield M. , Hill J. C. , La Posta A. , Louis T. , Madhavacheril M. , Pagano L.
Published: February 2025

We investigate the impact of beam chromaticity, i.e., the frequency dependence of the beam window function, on cosmological and astrophysical parameter constraints from CMB power spectrum observations. We show that for future high-resolution CMB measurements it is necessary to include a color-corrected beam for each sky component with a distinct spectral energy distribution. We introduce a formalism able to easily implement the beam chromaticity in CMB power spectrum likelihood analyses and run a case study using a Simons Observatory Large Aperture Telescope-like experimental setup and within the public SO software stack. To quantify the impact, we assume that beam chromaticity is present in simulated spectra but omitted in the likelihood analysis. We find that, for passbands of fractional width Δν/ν∼0.2, neglecting this effect leads to significant biases, with astrophysical foreground parameters shifting by more than 2σ and cosmological parameters by significant fractions of the error.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Spacetime and Planck mass generation from scale-invariant degenerate gravity
Authors: Maitiniyazi Yadikaer , Matsuzaki Shinya , Oda Kin-ya , Yamada Masatoshi
Published: February 2025

We investigate a gravitational model based on local Lorentz invariance and general coordinate invariance. The model incorporates classical scale invariance, which forbids dimensionful parameters, and the irreversible vierbein postulate, which enables continuous degenerate limits of the vierbein, both at a specific scale. Through the dynamics of the system, we demonstrate the simultaneous emergence of the Planck mass and a curved spacetime background.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
2D Ising critical couplings from quantum gravity
Authors: Livine Etera R. , Bonzom Valentin
Published: February 2025

Using an exact holographic duality formula between the inhomogeneous 2D Ising model and 3D quantum gravity, we provide a formula for “real” zeros of the 2D Ising partition function on finite trivalent graphs in terms of the geometry of a 2D triangulation embedded in the three-dimensional Euclidean space. The complex phase of those zeros is given by the dihedral angles of the triangulation, which reflect its extrinsic curvature within the ambient 3D space, while the modulus is given by the angles within the 2D triangles, thus encoding the intrinsic geometry of the triangulation. Our formula cannot cover the whole set of Ising zeros, but we conjecture that a suitable complexification of these “real” zeros would provide a more thorough formula. Nevertheless, in the thermodynamic limit, in the case of flat planar 2D triangulations, our Ising zeros’ formula gives the critical couplings for isoradial graphs, confirming its generality. Finally, the formula naturally extends to graphs with arbitrary valence in terms of the geometry of circle patterns embedded in 3D space. This approach shows an intricate, but precise, new relation between statistical mechanics and quantum geometry.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Emergent Metric-Like States of Active Particles with Metric-Free Polar Alignment
Authors: Zhao Yinong , Huepe Cristián , Romanczuk Pawel
Published: February 2025

We study a model of self-propelled particles interacting with their k nearest neighbors through polar alignment. By exploring its phase space as a function of two nondimensional parameters (alignment strength g and Péclet number Pe), we identify two distinct order-disorder transitions. One occurs at a low critical g value independent of Pe, has no significant density-order coupling, and is consistent with the transition previously predicted by the mean-field approach. Up to the system sizes studied, it appears continuous. The other is discontinuous, depends on a combined control parameter involving Pe and g that controls the alignment strength, and results from the formation of small, dense, highly persistent clusters of particles that follow metric-like dynamics. These dense clusters form at a critical value of the combined control parameter Pe/gα, with α≈1.5, which appears to be valid for different alignment-based models. Our study shows that models of active particles with metric-free interactions can produce characteristic length scales and self-organize into metric-like collective states that undergo metric-like transitions.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Can vertical interlocks of executives block adverse loops between R&D investment and the cost of equity capital? Evidence from China
Authors: Wei Gang , Ma Weiwei , Shan Lingbin
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to conduct research on the role of vertical interlocks of executives in blocking adverse loops between research and development (R&D) investment and the cost of equity capital and explore the action path of vertical interlocks of executives. This paper also analyzes the differences in the effect of vertical interlocks of chairman, vertical interlocks of chief executive officer (CEO) and vertical interlocks of CEO duality.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses 28,078 firm-year samples from Chinese A-share listed companies to study the impact of R&D investment on the cost of equity capital using univariate group analysis and multiple regression methods. This paper analyzes the role of vertical interlocks of executives in reducing the positive impact of R&D investment on the cost of equity capital by constructing interaction variables, by using group testing method to analyze the differences in the vertical interlocks of executives. This study also uses propensity score matching and instrumental variables to conduct robustness tests.

Findings

The vertical interlocks of executives can block adverse loops between R&D investment and the cost of equity capital. The role of executive vertical interlocks is more prominent in non-state-owned firms, mainly exerting the resource effect that supports the innovation of non-state-owned firms, including the information resource effect and the financial resource effect. Through heterogeneity analysis, this paper discovered that the role of vertical interlocks of chairman is greater than that of the CEO and the CEO duality.

Originality/value

Based on the perspective of the correlation effect generated by vertical interlocks of executives, this paper analyzes the path of promoting corporate innovation. This provides new empirical evidence for studying the collaborative governance effect of vertical interlocks of executives “supervision effect, financial resource effect and information resource effect.” This study provides useful insights for regulatory authorities to regulate and guide development of the vertical interlocks of executives.
Finance-based scheduling for projects in owners’ portfolios: MILP versus improved GA and PSO
Authors: Fares Ali , Elazouni Ashraf , Al-Shihabi Sameh , Al-Alawi Mubarak
Published: February 2025

Purpose

In the construction industry, cash flow issues can impact both contractors and owners. Although finance-based scheduling (FBS) models were developed to control contractors’ cash flow, researchers completely disregarded cash flow management for owners’ portfolios. Therefore, FBS is once again introduced in this study from the perspective of the owners of portfolios.

Design/methodology/approach

For the FBS problem of portfolio owners (FBS-PO), a mixed integer linear program (MILP) model is developed. The purpose is to ensure that owners’ cash inflows are greater than cash outflows while minimizing the sum of weighted extensions of the projects in portfolios. Owing to the difficulties encountered in solving the proposed MILP model, genetic algorithm (GA) and particle swarm optimization (PSO) meta-heuristics are used. To ensure the feasibility of the solutions, a special serial schedule generation heuristic was developed in conjunction with the random key method for chromosome representation.

Findings

The GA produced higher-quality solutions compared to PSO, though it required more processing time. The GA has proven to be a far better choice than the MILP exact solver for bigger portfolios. Additionally, there is a linear correlation between the number of activities in portfolios and the amount of computational time required for the GA to converge.

Originality/value

This paper introduces the new research domain of FBS from the owners’ perspective (FBS-PO). In order to establish the FBS-PO as a stand-alone domain, a critical review of the FBS studies in the literature was conducted. In addition, the goals, characteristics, implementation and challenges of the FBS heuristics are benchmarked against those of the special serial schedule generation heuristic developed for the FBS-PO problem.
Enterprise resource planning (ERP) in business: a contextual snapshot
Authors: Praharaj Ashyashree , Chhatoi Biswajit Prasad
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to delve into the developing field of enterprise resource planning (ERP) research through a thorough bibliometric analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing insights from sample articles of prominent databases, this study delves into thematic clusters, key contributors and emerging trends within the ERP domain.

Findings

This research shows a significant increase in single-authored ERP publications. It also highlights contributions from emerging economies and identifies key research areas such as ERP implementation and critical success factors. In addition, there is a growing interest in sustainability and impact assessment.

Originality/value

This study provides insights into past and present research trends and suggests potential research themes, questions and keywords for future exploration in this field.
From greenwashing to brand avoidance: the roles of perceived risk, trust and negative word-of-mouth
Authors: Mohammed Abdulalem , Al-Swidi Abdullah Kaid , Al-Hakimi Mohammed A. , Ferraris Alberto
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study explores the intricate relationships between greenwashing (GW), negative word-of-mouth (NWoM) and brand avoidance (BA), emphasizing the pivotal roles of green perceived risk (GPR) and green trust (GT). By analyzing these dynamics, the study sheds light on the effect of GW on consumer reactions and behaviors toward brands engaging in green marketing practices.

Design/methodology/approach

The current study used a survey dataset of 512 customers in Saudi Arabia and applied partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to assess the paths within the proposed model.

Findings

The findings of this study indicate that consumers’ perceptions of GW can harm brands. Specifically, GW positively influences BA through both GPR and GT. Moreover, GW directly affects NWoM and indirectly via GPR.

Practical implications

The study provides actionable insights for practitioners, emphasizing the importance of avoiding deceptive green marketing (i.e. GW) to build consumer trust and reduce negative behaviors like BA and NWoM. By adopting transparent practices and leveraging third-party environmental certifications, brands can enhance credibility, mitigate risks and maintain customer loyalty in sustainability-focused markets.

Originality/value

Drawing on signaling theory and expectancy violation theory, this study builds a new framework to highlight the harmful effects of GW on brands. By integrating these theories, the framework effectively explains how GW can trigger extreme responses such as NWoM and BA, thereby contributing to research that has previously overlooked the connections between these factors.
Does grit foster employee well-being? Role of basic need satisfaction and psychological empowerment – a moderated mediation study
Authors: Pradhan Rabindra Kumar , Jandu Kailash , Hati Lopamudra , Panda Madhusmita
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Recent research has established the importance of grit as a psychological resource in yielding a number of beneficial outcomes. However, the mechanisms linking grit with its consequences are yet to be explored fully. Drawing upon self-determination theory (Deci and Ryan, 2000) and the self-concordance model (Sheldon and Elliot, 1999), the present study aims to examine the impact of grit on employee well-being via the indirect path of need satisfaction. Further, the study explores the moderating role of psychological empowerment in the relationship between grit and need satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were gathered from Indian service sector employees (n = 798). Standardized instruments were used to measure the variables under investigation.

Findings

The findings ascertained a positive relationship between grit and employee well-being in the organizational context. The structural equation modeling analysis suggested that need satisfaction partially mediated the path leading from grit to employee well-being. Further, the findings obtained from PROCESS Macro analysis revealed a conditional moderating effect of psychological empowerment in bolstering the hypothesized mediation path involving grit, need satisfaction, and employee well-being.

Originality/value

The present study contributes to positive organizational behavior literature by uncovering the inter-linkage between grit and well-being in terms of intermediary mechanism. The theoretical and managerial implications, along with the limitations of the study, have been discussed.
Connecting Industry 4.0 to sustainable supply chain: analysis of critical factors
Authors: Prajapati Himanshu , Dable Shubham , Kant Ravi , Batra Usha
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Industry 4.0 (I4.0) influences the supply chain, including innovation, structure, availability and communication. It influences the supply chain by modifying how products are designed, manufactured, delivered and discarded for the sustainability of an organization. Sustainability emphasizes the use of optimal raw materials, efficient storage and delivery, on-time supply, productivity development, recycling, remanufacturing and refurbishing. The aim of this study is to identify and establish causal relationships among the key aspects that contribute to the success of I4.0-enabled sustainable supply chain (I4eSSC). The objective is to classify these components into discrete categories according to their causal and consequential linkages.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents a three-phase hybrid Criteria Importance Through Inter-criteria Correlation and Grey Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (G-DEMATEL) framework to achieve the stated objectives. A study is conducted to empirically examine the Indian automobile sector in order to illustrate the suitability of the suggested framework.

Findings

During the initial stage, a total of 26 success factors have been identified for the I4eSSC implementation. During the second part of the study, a total of 20 success factors were found and deemed critical success factors (CSFs). During the concluding stage, it was seen that out of the total of 20 chosen CSFs, nine were categorized in the cause group, whereas the remaining 11 were classified under the effect group. The analysis revealed that the element of “adoption of emerging technology for sustainable product and process development” was assigned the greatest level of importance.

Practical implications

This study aims to motivate professionals to enhance the integration of I4.0 into sustainable supply chains to maximize the advantages offered by these two separate concepts. It is imperative to devote genuine consideration to the examination of causal group variables in the context of I4eSSC, since these elements possess a direct influence on the overall performance of systems and exert a significant impact on the components within the effect group.

Originality/value

This study presents an extensive compilation of CSFs pertaining to the implementation of I4eSSC. The primary objective is to determine the relative relevance of these factors and explore the intricate causal relationships that exist among them. Furthermore, this study stands out due to its novel application of a specific decision-making methodology within the field of I4eSSC.