bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A secondary data analysis investigating the link between weather elements and incident presentation for mental disorders at a Ugandan tertiary psychiatric hospital
Authors: Mwesiga Emmanuel Kiiza , Munabi Ian , Ssemata Andrew Sentoogo , Kalungi Allan , Balinga Sophia , Aujo Blessed Tabitha , Mutamba Bryan Byamah , Bbosa Martha , Kalyesubula Robert , Babweetera Fred , Kinyanda Eugene , Ssembajjwe Wilber
Published: February 2025

The link between weather elements and mental disorders is often described in high-income countries, with hardly any data from low-and middle-income countries where the resources to cope with the negative mental health impacts of climate change are extremely constrained. In this paper, we examined the association between weather elements and the incident presentation with a mental disorder at Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital. We used secondary data from two datasets: i) a mental health data set collated from all patients presenting at Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital in 2019; and ii) a climatic dataset for the geographic location of Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital for the same year (2019). The mental health data set included socio-demographic variables and mental disorder diagnoses, while the climatic data set included data on, atmospheric pressure (hPa), rainfall (mm), sunshine (hours/month), humidity (%), temperature (°C) and wind speed (m/s). We performed descriptive statistical analyses to summarize the frequency of mental disorder diagnoses and the monthly averages of weather variables. We then undertook correlation and multiple logistic regression analyses to investigate the associations between specific weather elements and the incident presentation of different mental disorders. In the mental health data, we had 2,827 participants, males were 56.1%(n=1,584), and the median age was 29 years (IQR 23-38). Psychotic disorders were the most common diagnosis at 43.8% (n=1,239). Overall, various weather elements correlated at different strengths with incident presentation of various mental disorders, particularly humidity and rainfall. On controlling for age and sex in the multiple regression models, the strongest associations were between heat elements and incident presentation for psychotic disorders [AOR1.12, 95%CI (1.04; 1.27) p<0.001]. No associations were demonstrated between weather elements and incident presentation for neurocognitive and neurodevelopmental disorders. These preliminary findings point to a possible relationship between incident presentation of mental disorders to a tertiary psychiatric hospital in Uganda and various weather elements. There is need for longitudinal studies to confirm these associations and to explore underlying social and biological mechanisms.
Machine learning-based analysis of genomic and transcriptomic data unveils sarcoma clusters with superlative prognostic and predictive value
Authors: Esperança-Martins Miguel , Vasques Hugo , Ravasqueira Manuel Sokolov , Lemos Maria Manuel , Fonseca Filipa , Coutinho Diogo , López Jorge Antonio , Huang Richard S.P. , Dias Sérgio , Gallego-Paez Lina , Costa Luís , Abecasis Nuno , Gonçalves Emanuel , Fernandes Isabel
Published: February 2025

Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) histopathological classification system has several conceptual caveats, impacting prognostication and treatment. The clinical and molecular-based tools currently employed to estimate prognosis also have limitations. Clinically driven molecular profiling studies may cover these gaps. We performed DNA sequencing (DNAseq) and RNA sequencing (RNAseq), portraying the molecular profile of 102 samples of 3 of the most common STS subtypes. The RNAseq data was analyzed using unsupervised machine learning models, unravelling previously unknown molecular patterns and identifying 4 well-defined transcriptomic clusters. These transcriptomic clusters have a clear prognostic value, a finding that was externally validated. This transcriptomic cluster-based classification’s prognostic value is superior to the prognostic accuracy of currently used clinical-based (SARCULATOR nomograms) and molecular-based (CINSARC) prognostication tools. The analysis of DNAseq data from the same cohort of samples revealed a plethora of unique and, in some cases, never documented molecular targets for precision treatment across different transcriptomic clusters.
YY1 protein is essential for the promotion of Muller glia reprogramming and retina regeneration
Authors: Chaudhary Mansi , Desai Omkar Mahadeo , Sharma Poonam , Premraj Sharanya , Shukla Pooja , Ramachandran Rajesh
Published: February 2025

Unlike mammals, the Muller glia reprogramming in zebrafish retina restores vision after an acute retinal injury. Here, we explored the Ying yang (Yy1) protein and its multi-faceted roles in different phases of retina regeneration. We show that the acetylation and deacetylation status of Yy1 contribute to its transcriptional activation and repression functions on various target genes, including regeneration-associated genes (RAGs). Yy1 is regulated positively by TGF-β and negatively through Delta-Notch signaling in the injured retina. Yy1-knockdown caused reduced retinal progenitor induction and regeneration, while the opposite was seen in its overexpression. Yy1 collaborates with histone deacetylases, BAF complex, and the effector of TGF-β signaling, pSMAD3, to target the genome differentially. Lastly, the whole transcriptome analysis of the Yy1-debilitated retina revealed differential expression of various RAGs and BMP-signaling. Yy1 facilitates the BMP pathways genes through the downregulation ofnoggin3. Our study unravels how a single transcription factor, Yy1, could influence many important regulatory steps of retina regeneration.
Strain-Specific Variation in the Complement Resistome ofPseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Janet-Maitre Manon , Robert-Genthon Mylène , Cretin François , Elsen Sylvie , Attrée Ina
Published: February 2025

Bloodstream infections caused byPseudomonas aeruginosaare associated with the highest mortality rates. The complement system, key component of the innate immune response, is mostly responsible forP. aeruginosaelimination in human blood. Nevertheless, the plasma sensitivity ofP. aeruginosastrains varies, ranging from highly sensitive, persistent to fully resistant. Whereas most studies rely on model strains, given the species’ high genomic and phenotypic diversity, the interaction betweenP. aeruginosaand the complement system may be highly complex. In this work, we characterized the plasma resistome ofP. aeruginosain three strains displaying variable plasma sensitivity using Tn-seq. The gain-of-function screen performed on the sensitive strain PA14 highlighted numerous bacterial factors impacting plasma resistance, including members of the RetS-LadS/Gac/Rsm regulatory system and outer membrane porins. Tn-seq in plasma-resistant strains CHA and YIK, suggested that each strain utilizes a specific and limited set of proteins to evade complement-dependent killing. Despite this strain-specific response, we identified common strategies across all strains, including the production of exopolysaccharides (EPSs), the presence of surface appendages and modification in the O-specific antigen. We evidence Ssg and Crc as common factors contributing to plasma resistance. However, whereas mutants lackingssgand/orcrcin plasma had reduced survival, a subpopulation of these mutants persisted over prolonged exposure to human plasma. Overall, this work provides valuable insights into the complex interplay betweenP. aeruginosaand the complement system in the context of bloodstream infections and raises concerns for the development of therapies targeting individual virulence factors.
Equilibrium properties of a coupled contagion model of mosquito-borne disease and mosquito preventive behaviors
Authors: Poterek Marya L. , Santos-Vega Mauricio , Perkins T. Alex
Published: February 2025

Although different strategies for mosquito-borne disease prevention can vary significantly in their efficacy and scale of implementation, they all require that individuals comply with their use. Despite this, human behavior is rarely considered in mathematical models of mosquito-borne diseases. Here, we sought to address that gap by establishing general expectations for how different behavioral stimuli and forms of mosquito prevention shape the equilibrium prevalence of disease. To accomplish this, we developed a coupled contagion model tailored to the epidemiology of dengue and preventive behaviors relevant to it. Under our model’s parameterization, we found that mosquito biting was the most important driver of behavior uptake. In contrast, encounters with individuals experiencing disease or engaging in preventive behaviors themselves had a smaller influence on behavior uptake. The relative influence of these three stimuli reflected the relative frequency with which individuals encountered them. We also found that two distinct forms of mosquito prevention—namely, personal protection and mosquito density reduction—mediated different influences of behavior on equilibrium disease prevalence. Our results highlight that unique features of coupled contagion models can arise in disease systems with distinct biological features.
Modeling the Spread of Misfolded Proteins in Alzheimer’s Disease using Higher-Order Simplicial Complex Contagion
Authors: Wardynski Marcin , Iacopini Iacopo , Petri Giovanni , Latora Vito , Crimi Alessandro
Published: February 2025

Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by complex proteins misfolded that propagate within the brain. For instance, current findings highlight the role of 2 specific misfolded proteins in Alzheimer which are believed to spread using brain fibers as highways. Previous studies investigated such spreading by simulation models or machine learning-based predictors which adopt the brain connectome as the underlying spreading network. However, the structural connectome by construction only describes pairwise connections between nodes in a graph. High-order interaction complex networks offer significant advantages over normal graphs because they can capture interactions that go beyond simple pairwise relationships. Protein misfolding and aggregation often involve cooperative behaviors or group dynamics that normal graphs, with their focus on individual edges, cannot adequately represent. The non-linear and multiscale nature of protein misfolding might be better suited to a richer representation of higher-order models. In this study we investigate whether higher-order networks can provide improved fits and explanatory power in this context. More specifically, we employ a simplicial complex contagion model for amyloid beta to predict protein misfolding spread. The simplicial contagion complex produced a mean reconstruction error of 0.030 for Alzheimer’s patients regarding the predicted protein deposition across all brain region in a 2-year horizon and other results, outperforming previous studies, especially for cases in which the misfolded protein were non-increasing steadily. Despite the limited time span, this study highlights the potential of combining advanced network analysis to capture the intricate dynamics of protein aggregation across neural networks.

Clinical relevance

This study highlights the potential of high-order networks to improve predictions of misfolded protein spread in Alzheimer’s, offering better insight into protein aggregation dynamics.
A Robust Fluorogenic Substrate for Chikungunya Virus Protease (nsP2) Activity
Authors: Makhaik Sparsh , Rut Wioletta , Choudhary Shruti , Upadhyay Tulsi , Hao Chenzhou , Westberg Michael , Bobst Cedric , Yoo Euna , Fejzo Jasna , Lin Michael Z , Bogyo Matthew , Thompson Paul , Drag Marcin , Hardy Jeanne A.
Published: February 2025

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is an emerging pathogen with pandemic potential. CHIKV infection in humans is transmitted by mosquitoes and induces common symptoms of high fever, arthralgia and myalgia. Because no specific antiviral drugs for treatment of CHIKV infection are available, drug development remains a central goal. The chikungunya virus protease nsP2 (CHIKVP) has emerged as a key drug target due to its indispensable role in viral replication via cleavage of the viral polyprotein. To date, effective tools for screening for CHIKVP inhibitors that reflect the most critical polyprotein cleavage sites have been lacking, hampering drug-development efforts. We found that the recognition ability of CHIKVP is sensitive to the length of peptide substrates. In this study, we report a robust fluorogenic substrate comprising a 15-mer peptide derived from the nsP3/4 junction from the CHIKV polyprotein. This peptide is flanked by an ACC-Lys(dnp) donor-quencher pair. Our new substrate acc-CHIK15-dnp shows a 20-fold improved signal-to-noise ratio as compared to the previously reported edab8substrate, which is also based on the nsP3/4 junction. We found acc-CHIK15-dnp is recognized only by CHIKVP but not by other alphavirus proteases. This is surprising due to the high level of sequence conservation in the alpha virus polyprotein junctions and indicates that the P-side residues are more important than the P’-side sequence for effective CHIKVP cleavage. The robust signal-to-noise ratio obtained using acc-CHIK15-dnp derived from the nsP3/4 cleavage site enabled much improved small molecule HTS on CHIKV relative to other fluorogenic reporters.
Efficacy of Tenapanor in Managing Hyperphosphatemia and Constipation in Hemodialysis Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Suzuki Naoki , Takeda Yuuki , Kabuto Akie , Konishi Takao , Konishi Takahiro , Sumino Fumi , Iwata Hayanari , Iwagami Mone , Kouchi Yusuke , Hitomi Yasumasa , Takatani Toru , Nishimura Masato , Sato Nodoka
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Tenapanor is a minimally absorbed, small-molecule inhibitor of sodium/hydrogen exchanger 3 and thus suppresses sodium absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. It is approved by the FDA for the treatment of hyperphosphatemia in dialysis patients. This randomized controlled trial evaluated its efficacy in the treatment of hyperphosphatemia and constipation in hemodialysis patients.

Methods

Ninety hemodialysis patients were randomized 1:1 to receive either tenapanor or standard care. Randomization was performed using a computer-generated sequence stratified by baseline serum phosphorus levels. The tenapanor group began treatment with a dosage of 10 mg/day, which was adjusted based on serum phosphorus levels. Primary outcomes were changes in serum phosphorus levels in the tenapanor and control groups and changes in stool consistency, assessed weekly using the Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS) in the tenapanor group. Secondary outcomes included laxative use and phosphate binder prescription patterns. Serum phosphorus levels, serum calcium, albumin, and related biochemical parameters were monitored every two weeks. Data were analyzed using intention-to-treat principles. This study was not blinded.

Results

Of the 90 randomized participants, 69 completed the 23-week study. Tenapanor significantly improved stool consistency and resolved constipation (BSFS types 1-2) by week 5. A transient increase in loose stools (BSFS types 6-7) occurred early, with 10 participants discontinuing due to diarrhea. Laxative use decreased significantly in the tenapanor group, from 58.2% at baseline to 35.6% at week 23 (p < 0.01). Serum phosphorus levels were decreased in both groups, with comparable control. Lanthanum carbonate prescriptions decreased significantly in the tenapanor group and were largely replaced by low-dose tenapanor.

Conclusion

Tenapanor improves stool consistency, reduces laxative use, and provides effective phosphorus control in hemodialysis patients and represents a promising alternative to conventional phosphate binders.

Funding

None.

Trial Registration

Registered with UMIN-CTR (UMIN000033778;http://www.umin.ac.jp/ctr/index.htm).
Time-course responses following sports-related concussion: A multi-modality study
Authors: Pearce Alan J , Middleton Kane , Clarke Anthea
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Using a repeated-measures design, we investigated reported symptoms, oculomotor, and neurophysiological responses for up to 26 days following a sports-related concussion.

Methods

Over the course of one season, 115 athletes (mean age 26.2 ± 5.4 years) from one football team (f=28, m=37) and one ice hockey team (f=21, m=29) were assessed for self-reported symptoms and severity of symptoms, cognitive testing for 10-word recall and digit backwards. Oculomotor performance was assessed using eye-pursuits. Neurophysiology was assessed using transcranial magnetic stimulation. Baseline data was tested during pre-season for all athletes and, when a concussion was identified, carried out at 48h, 12-, 19-, and 26-days post injury.

Results

Twenty-two players suffered concussion injuries (f=10, m=12). Significant increases in symptoms were reported at 48-hours (p<0.001) and 12-days (p=0.017). Severity of symptoms were significantly increased at 48-hours only (p=0.002). Significant decrements in performance for 10-word recall (p=0.003), digit backwards (p=0.011), and eye-pursuit (p=0.009) were observed at 48-hours in comparison to baseline. Transcranial magnetic stimulation revealed significantly increased cortical inhibition at 48-hours (p=0.024), 12- (p=0.009), and 19-days (p=0.028) compared to baseline. No differences were seen between females and males for any variables or timepoints.

Conclusion

Concussed players show acute changes in cortical inhibition, resolving by 26-days after injury, which follows a longer time-course for recovery compared to symptoms, cognitive tests, and oculomotor eye-pursuits. These results suggest that measuring the recovery of concussed athletes should incorporate a range of testing modalities in the determination of a player’s readiness to return to play.
Arabidopsisroot-type ferredoxin:NADP(H) oxidoreductases are crucial for root growth and ferredoxin-dependent processes
Authors: Monden Kota , Otomaru Daisuke , Suzuki Takamasa , Nakagawa Tsuyoshi , Hachiya Takushi
Published: February 2025

Root-type ferredoxin:NADP(H) oxidoreductase (RFNR) is believed to reduce ferredoxin using NADPH in nonphotosynthetic tissues, facilitating ferredoxin-dependent biological processes. However, the physiological functions of RFNR remain unclear due to the difficulty in obtaining mutants lacking redundant RFNR isoproteins. The present study successfully generatedArabidopsishomozygousrnfr1;2double mutants by traditional crossing and selection. However, they displayed severely stunted roots, challenging subsequent growth and abundant seed recovery. Notably, grafted plants combining mutant scions with wild-type rootstocks exhibited normal growth and produced abundant mutant seeds. Growth analysis employing reciprocal grafts with the wild-type and mutant plants showed that primary root growth was inhibited only when the rootstock was derived from the mutants. Meanwhile, the absence of RFNR1 and 2 in the scion had no apparent impact on shoot and root growth. Root transcriptome analysis revealed that RFNR1 and 2 deficiency upregulated genes encoding ferredoxin-dependent enzymes and root-type ferredoxin, leading to genome-wide reprogramming associated with cell walls, lipids, photosynthesis, secondary metabolism, and biotic/abiotic stress responses. Thus,ArabidopsisRFNR1 and 2 are crucial for root growth and various ferredoxin-dependent biological processes.
Prenatal adversity configures a subpopulation of ventral dentate granule cells for recruitment to drive innate anxiety
Authors: Nabila Anika , Sciortino Rose , Politowska Nicole , Brindley Elizabeth , Hámor Peter U. , Zallar Lia , Toth Judit Gal , Pleil Kristen , Toth Miklos
Published: February 2025

Adverse prenatal environment is a risk factor for the development of psychiatric disorders. Although studies have implicated epigenetic mechanisms, little is known about how epigenomic changes come about and lead to abnormal behaviors in affected individuals. We sought to identify epigenomic and transcriptomic signatures induced by a proinflammatory gestational environment in the ventral dentate gyrus (vDG), a hippocampal region linked to avoidance of threatening contexts, that persist and promote anxiety-like behavior in mice. Here we show that adversity shifted the methylation of enhancers and promoters with intermediate methylation and altered synapse-related gene expression, resulting in epigenetic and transcriptional heterogeneity in the vDG. Exposure to an anxiogenic environment recruited vDG neurons with the most transcriptional alterations. Differentially expressed synapse-relevant genes in ensemble neurons tended to be differentially methylated. Finally, this ensemble exhibited higher activity in threatening than safe environment suggesting a prenatal adversity-induced epigenetic and neurobiological sequence that leads to anxiety.
Binding of the three-hadron
DD*K
system from the lattice effective field theory
Authors: Zhang Zhenyu , Hu Xin-Yue , He Guangzhao , Liu Jun , Shi Jia-Ai , Lu Bing-Nan , Wang Qian
Published: February 2025

We employ the nuclear lattice effective field theory (NLEFT), an efficient tool for nuclear calculations, to solve the asymmetric multihadron systems. We take the DD*K three-body system as an illustration to demonstrate the capability of the method. Here the two-body chiral interactions between D, D*, and K are regulated with a soft lattice regulator and calibrated with the binding energies of the Tcc+, Ds0*(2317), and Ds1(2460) molecular states. We then calculate the three-body binding energy using the NLEFT and analyze the systematic uncertainties due to the finite volume effects, the sliding cutoff, and the leading-order three-body forces. Even when the three-body interaction is repulsive (even as large as the infinite repulsive interaction), the three-body system has a bound state unambiguously with binding energy no larger than the Ds1(2460)D threshold. To check the renormalization group invariance of our framework, we extract the first excited state. We find that when the ground state is fixed, the first excited states with various cutoffs coincide with each other when the cubic size goes larger. In addition, the standard angular momentum and parity projection technique is implemented for the quantum numbers of the ground and excited states. We find that both of them are S-wave states with quantum number JP=1−. Because the three-body state contains two charm quarks, it is easier to be detected in the Large Hadron Collider.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Fundamental limits to the generation of highly displaced bright squeezed light using linear optics and parametric amplifiers
Authors: Young Steve M. , Soh Daniel
Published: February 2025

High-quality squeezed light is an important resource for a variety of applications. Multiple methods for generating squeezed light are known, having been demonstrated theoretically and experimentally. However, the effectiveness of these methods—in particular, the inherent limitations to the signals that can be produced—has received little consideration. Here we present a comparative theoretical analysis for generating a highly displaced squeezed light from a linear optical method—a beamsplitter mixing a squeezed vacuum and a strong coherent state—and well-studied parametric amplification methods including an optical parametric oscillator, an optical parametric amplifier, and a dissipative optomechanical squeezer seeded with coherent states. We show that the quality of highly displaced squeezed states that can be generated using these methods is limited on a fundamental level by the physical mechanism utilized; across all methods there are significant trade-offs between displacement, squeezing, and overall uncertainty. We explore the nature and extent of these trade-offs specific to each mechanism and identify the optimal operation modes for each. Finally, we identify the conditions for minimum-uncertainty squeezing in arbitrary parametric amplifying systems and show that displacing the output signal will in general violate these conditions, adding noise and degrading squeezing.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Tweezer-Assisted Subwavelength Positioning of Atomic Arrays in an Optical Cavity
Authors: Seubert M. , Hartung L. , Welte S. , Rempe G. , Distante E.
Published: February 2025

We present an experimental technique that enables the preparation of defect-free arrays of 87Rb atoms within a microscopic high-finesse optical standing-wave cavity. By employing optical tweezers, we demonstrate atom positioning with a precision well below the cavity wavelength, a crucial requirement for cavity-QED experiments in which maximum atom-cavity coupling strength is required. We leverage our control capabilities to assemble an array of up to seven atoms with an efficiency that exceeds previous probabilistic methods by 4 orders of magnitude. The atoms are subsequently transferred from the tweezer array to a two-dimensional intracavity optical lattice that offers enhanced coherence for spin qubits while maintaining strong atom confinement. Our system overcomes the efficiency limitations of previous probabilistic loading techniques of cavity-coupled atom arrays and opens the path to multiqubit quantum networks with atoms strongly coupled to optical cavities.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
A simple and robust high-pressure cell for transmission X-ray investigation
Authors: Vandenabeele Dries , Doppelhammer Nikolaus , Rosenthal Martin , Wangermez Wauter , Jakoby Bernhard , Kirschhock Christine , Breynaert Eric
Published: February 2025

A simple and robust high-pressure cell designed for in situ transmission X-ray crystallization studies is presented. The performance of the cell for in situ small/wide-angle X-ray scattering experiments and microscopy imaging is demonstrated for zeolite crystallization from highly alkaline hydrated silicate ionic liquids at 500 K and 150 bar N2 pressure. The simple design in combination with commercial finger-tight connections allows for convenient sample loading of powders, liquids and gases. The cell can be used in dead-end or flow-through mode and can be pressurized with gases or liquids via standard high-performance liquid chromatography capillary tubing. The capillaries are easily cleaned or replaced. The wetted parts are polyether ether ketone and sapphire, which are resistant to many corrosive substances, thus enabling in situ characterization under challenging conditions.
ULtimate MAGnetic characterization (ULMAG) at the ID12 beamline of ESRF: from element-specific properties to macroscopic functionalities
Authors: Aubert Alex , Rogalev Andrei , Gomez Gabriel , Dilmieva Elvina , Lill Johanna , Eggert Benedikt , Skokov Konstantin , Wilhelm Fabrice , Wende Heiko , Ollefs Katharina , Gutfleisch Oliver
Published: February 2025

We present a novel instrument designed for advanced magnetic study, installed at the ID12 beamline of the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility in Grenoble, France. This instrument offers the unique capability to simultaneously measure element-specific microscopic and macroscopic properties related to the magnetic, electronic and structural characteristics of materials. In addition to X-ray absorption, X-ray magnetic circular dichroism alongside X-ray diffraction patterns, the macroscopic magnetization, volume changes, caloric properties and electrical resistivity of magnetic materials could be measured strictly under the same experimental conditions as a function of both magnetic field (up to ±7 T) and temperature (ranging from 2.05 K to 325 K). To demonstrate the capability of this new instrument, we present two case studies highlighting its performance in investigating first-order magneto-structural phase transitions, namely in DyCo2 and FeRh alloys.
Resolution enhancement on single-shot X-ray spectrometers using a detuned non-dispersive multi-crystal analyzer
Authors: Osaka Taito , Inubushi Yuichi , Kameshima Takashi , Inoue Ichiro , Yabashi Makina
Published: February 2025

This study proposes and demonstrates a simple method for improving the energy resolution in a single-shot X-ray spectrometer, which consists of a focusing mirror and a single-crystal analyzer. Two Si(220) channel-cut crystals arranged in a non-dispersive geometry are employed as the analyzer. The angular width of diffraction for the multi-crystal analyzer is reduced by detuning one of the crystals, thereby enhancing the energy resolution of the spectrometer while maintaining the energy range. A proof-of-principle experiment with 10.4 keV X-rays clearly shows a resolution enhancement by a factor of two. It was found that X-ray penetration within the crystals broadened the point-spread function on the detector, significantly impacting the energy resolution under highly detuned conditions. A long detector distance of greater than 14 m is expected to achieve a high energy resolution of 100 meV and a range of 80 eV, enabling full spectral characterization of X-ray free-electron laser radiation as well as advanced spectroscopy techniques.
Corporate governance and foreign direct investment in Latin America
Authors: Lombana-Coy Jahir , Salcedo Nestor U.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Hitherto, several Latin American countries have pinned their hopes for growth in international markets through foreign direct investments (FDIs). However, much investor confidence is shaped by perceptions of the country’s corporate governance pillars, such as accountability, board efficacy and investor protection. Thus, this study aims to examine how these corporate governance pillars impact on FDI inflows among the countries in this region.

Design/methodology/approach

The research design is a causal longitudinal non-experimental empirical study that uses the gravity model of the FDI bilateral flow from 17 Latin American countries from 10 years before COVID-19, obtained from 272 bilateral flows and 2,992 observations. The authors factorized and normalized country-level corporate governance measures from the World Bank and generated the dynamic panel data estimates with the Arellano–Bond two-step generalized method of moments system.

Findings

The findings of this study are robust concerning previous gravity models, showing that FDI bilateral flows depend significantly on their lagged flows and the economic growth of the reporter countries. This study shows accountability and board efficacy significantly increase FDI bilateral flows in Latin America. Investor protection only positively influences the FDI bilateral flow if it is from the home country.

Originality/value

The literature on the relationship between FDI and corporate governance is relatively scarce to justify such pillars of corporate governance in Latin America from the perspective of bilateral investment flows. Thus, this study seeks precisely to deepen the analysis of the relationship between FDI flows and corporate governance. Additionally, the authors present theoretical and policy implications with a future research agenda.
Microlearning in organizations: patterns and future directions
Authors: Kumar V.V. Ravi , Sen Sujoy
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study investigates the patterns in Microlearning by analyzing the extant literature, uncovering the underlying themes, and proposing future directions in this field for organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

A relevant search of the Scopus database was performed on 4th August 2024 which revealed a total of 108 articles. These articles were then analyzed and a network analysis was performed using VOSViewer to uncover the research themes and clusters. Articles pertaining to the domain of Business Management were included for the study.

Findings

The findings are based on the published literature from Scopus database and generating an intellectual structure through VOSviewer. Four underlying themes projecting the patterns associated with Microlearning were revealed and future directions based on these patterns were suggested.

Research limitations/implications

This study is a window to the immense possibility of future research in the emerging field of Microlearning. Researchers can conduct empirical studies related to Microlearning with reference to each of the four clusters that emerged from the study. The future directions suggested in the study may also be validated through quantitative research.

Practical implications

Organizations can utilize this study to understand and incorporate Microlearning and base their organizational policies to evolve into inclusive learning organizations.

Social implications

Microlearning can prove to be a great learning technique to promote gender-agnostic inclusive learning catering to different learning styles.

Originality/value

This paper is a unique study that uncovers the patterns and indicates the future directions in Microlearning – an evolving learning technique appealing to a diverse set of learners.
Developing a Green-BIM team to improve the construction of green buildings in Sri Lanka
Authors: Rupasinghe Chathushka , Ranadewa K.A.T.O. , Jayanetti J.K.D.D.T. , Perera B.A.K.S.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to propose a novel Green-BIM team (GBT) through a framework that would be essential in mitigating barriers to Green-BIM integration.

Design/methodology/approach

An interpretive stance is adopted for this study. Through a qualitative survey, 25 experts with proficiency in green building construction and building information modelling (BIM) implementation were interviewed. Code-based content analysis was carried out using NVivo12.

Findings

The findings of this study signified the need for a GBT and proposed architect, client, Green consultant, designer (mechanical, electrical and plumbing [MEP], structural), BIM coordinator, engineer (MEP, structural), project manager, quantity surveyor and facilities manager to be involved in the team representing design phase, construction phase and operational phase.

Research limitations/implications

The experts were limited to the Sri Lankan context; however, the findings can also benefit countries with socio-economic and cultural backgrounds similar to Sri Lanka.

Practical implications

Findings will be beneficial for policymakers and industry professionals to promote a BIM-enabled green building environment. The proposed GBT model extends existing theoretical frameworks, emphasising the need for a multi-disciplinary team throughout the entire lifecycle of a green building.

Social implications

The proposed GBT model aligns with broader societal goals related to sustainable development. This approach provides a sustainable pathway to achieve economic goals for all stakeholders in the construction sector.

Originality/value

There is a dearth of literature on a GBT to improve the construction of green buildings in Sri Lanka. Thus, the developed model is unique as it presents a novel GBT for the Sri Lankan construction sector. Further, it elaborates roles and responsibilities of team members with comprehensive details on how to mitigate the barriers to Green-BIM integration.
The role of adhocracy culture in open innovation in SMEs
Authors: Shahin Mohammad Muein Rasheed , Chong Chin Wei , Ojo Adedapo O.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Studies have demonstrated the role of organizational culture on innovative performance. However, there is limited focus on the role of adhocracy culture in facilitating open innovation in organizations, especially in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that are constrained by a lack of adequate resources, making them dependent on dynamic innovative culture such as adhocracy culture.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a quantitative methodology, using both exploratory and descriptive methods. Five hundred manufacturing SMEs in Jordan were chosen through systemic random sampling from a registered list of 2,310 manufacturing SMEs. A questionnaire was used as the study’s instrument on these SMEs. In sum, 335 responses (67%) were considered suitable for analysis.

Findings

This paper supports the previous studies that suggest that the success of open innovation rests largely on creating an effective organizational culture (e.g., adhocracy culture). However, this paper indicates the positive influence of adhocracy culture on the features of open innovation (i.e., inbound innovation, outbound innovation).

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by emphasizing the organizational elements that encourage open innovation in SMEs. It also provides empirical knowledge of a research model that offers SME stakeholders a cost-effective driver for open innovation activities by transforming intangible resources such as organizational culture, namely, adhocracy culture, to boost the competitiveness of their SMEs.
Investigation of temperature jump, first and second-order velocity slip effects on blood-based ternary nanofluid flow in convergent/divergent channels
Authors: Gunay Tunahan , Erdem Duygu , Sahin Ahmet Ziyaettin
Published: February 2025

Purpose

High surface area-to-volume ratios make nanoparticles ideal for cancer heat therapy and targeted medication delivery. Moreover, ternary nanofluids (TNFs) may possess superior thermophysical properties compared to mono- and hybrid nanofluids due to their synergistic effects. In light of this information, the objective of this article is to examine the blood-based TNF flow within convergent/divergent channels under velocity slip and temperature jump.

Design/methodology/approach

Leading partial differential equations corresponding to the problem are transformed into a system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations by using similarity variables. The bvp4c code that uses the finite difference method is used to obtain a numerical solution.

Findings

The effect of nanoparticles may change depending on the characteristics of flow near the wall. The properties and proportions of the used nanoparticles become important to control the flow. When TNF was used, an increase in the Nusselt number between 4.75% and 6.10% was observed at low Reynolds numbers. At high Reynolds numbers, nanoparticles reduce the Nusselt number and skin friction coefficient values under some special flow conditions. Importantly, the effects of second-order slip on engineering parameters were also investigated. Furthermore, the Nusselt number increases with increasing shape factor.

Research limitations/implications

Obtained results of the study can be beneficial in both nature and engineering, especially blood flow in veins.

Originality/value

The main innovations of this study are the usage of blood-based TNF and the examination of the effect of shape factor in convergent/divergent channels with second-order velocity slip.
Integrating poetry as a pedagogical and therapeutic tool: evidence from a Bangladeshi classroom
Authors: Tareq Abu Musa Md. , Alam Md. Bayezid
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study looks at how poetry affects students’ emotional well-being, assesses its potential as a therapeutic tool and explores how poetry can enhance students’ participation and engagement in a Bangladeshi classroom.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative case study approach was used. Data sources included six semi-structured interviews and four non-participant classroom observations. All data were analyzed thematically.

Findings

The poetry had a profound impact on the students’ emotional states by providing a space for them to express feelings, explore emotions and accelerate personal growth. Poetry evoked passion, reflected their lives and affected them emotionally. It assisted students in becoming more resilient and better able to control their emotions. Furthermore, poetry in the classroom enhanced students’ attentiveness, interactions and participation by making the learning process more interactive and emotionally engaging.

Originality/value

The study offers valuable insights on incorporating poetry in teaching practices to improve students’ emotional well-being and fosters more engaging and meaningful learning experiences.
The impact of financial development and regulation on technology gaps and cost efficiency in banks: a cross-country analysis
Authors: Seelanatha Senarath Lalithananda , Natoli Riccardo
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to examine the effects of financial development and banking regulation on technology gaps and cost efficiency in banks, controlling for bank- and country-specific factors.

Design/methodology/approach

A stochastic frontier analysis is used to empirically investigate the cost efficiency of 277 banks in 11 Asia-Pacific countries from 2011 to 2019. To compare their banking sectors, 11 countries are categorized as high- or low-income.

Findings

The results show that the level of financial development is key to the technology type adopted by banks in low-income countries, but the regulatory environment is more important to technology gaps and cost efficiency in high-income countries.

Research limitations/implications

A limitation of this study relates to data availability: some firms were excluded through the application of limiting criteria. The research has implications for bank regulators in high-income countries and demonstrates the need for further investigation of the financial development of banks in low-income countries.

Originality/value

This study applies the most recent meta-frontier technique to a sample of banks in the Asia-Pacific region to identify determinants of bank cost efficiency and technology gaps.
Mitigating risks in public procurement
Authors: Paraskeva Stella , Tsoulfas Giannis T.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to examine the challenges and risks in public procurement, focusing on Greece’s context within the EU framework. It seeks to provide guidance on mitigating potential risks throughout different stages of public procurement by leveraging the knowledge of Greek professionals and existing literature. The research explores the implementation of the national public procurement plan in Greece, aiming to accelerate contract awards, reduce bureaucracy, promote competition and encourage cost-effectiveness among contracting authorities.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses a qualitative approach, combining a literature review with expert interviews. Greek professionals with extensive experience in public procurement were consulted to gather insights on current practices, challenges and risk mitigation strategies. The research also analyzes EU public procurement strategies and their implementation in Greece. This mixed-method approach allows for a comprehensive understanding of the public procurement landscape, integrating theoretical frameworks with practical insights from industry experts.

Findings

The research reveals significant improvements in Greece’s public procurement sector despite persistent irregularities and challenges. Key findings include the need for increased transparency, professionalization of sector staff, support for SMEs and enhanced digitization. The study identifies specific risks at various stages of the procurement process and proposes mitigation strategies. It also highlights the importance of implementing the national public procurement plan to streamline processes, reduce bureaucratic hurdles and promote competition and cost-effectiveness.

Social implications

Effective public procurement management has far-reaching social implications. By improving the quality and efficiency of public spending, it can enhance public services and infrastructure, ultimately benefiting citizens’ quality of life. Increased transparency and fair competition can foster trust between citizens and government, promoting a culture of accountability. Supporting SMEs in public procurement can stimulate economic growth and job creation. Furthermore, promoting sustainability and innovation through procurement practices can contribute to broader societal goals such as environmental protection and technological advancement.

Originality/value

This study provides a unique perspective on public procurement challenges and risk management in Greece within the EU context. By combining insights from experienced Greek professionals with a comprehensive literature review, it offers practical, context-specific guidance for risk mitigation in public procurement. The research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on public procurement reform in EU member states, particularly those facing similar challenges to Greece. Its findings and recommendations can inform policy-making, improve procurement practices and enhance the overall effectiveness of public spending in Greece and potentially other EU countries.
Exploring the adoption of total quality management practices on hospital governance: evidence from Morocco
Authors: Msatfa Nabila , Baidani Aziz , Chebabe Milouda , Msatfa Zouheir , Hilali Abderraouf
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to explore the integration and impact of total quality management (TQM) practices within the governance of Moroccan hospitals, identifying the main themes and challenges associated with their implementation and suggesting potential benefits.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing a qualitative methodology, the study conducted semi-structured interviews with healthcare professionals across various Moroccan hospitals. Data were analyzed using Reinert’s classification method to extract thematic clusters, which were then visually represented through similarity analysis.

Findings

The results from our study on TQM within Moroccan healthcare institutions resonate with findings from international research, underscoring the universal principles and challenges of TQM in healthcare settings. Alsalamah (2023) found that a variety of TQM practices, notably customer focus and continuous improvement, are intricately linked with employee satisfaction, echoing the importance of these practices for effective healthcare delivery as identified in our research.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the existing literature by providing a context-specific examination of TQM practices within Moroccan hospitals, offering a perspective on the challenges and benefits of quality management in a developing country’s healthcare system. The findings present actionable insights for healthcare administrators and policymakers in Morocco.