bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-ancestry GWAS reveals loci linked to human variation in LINE-1- and Alu-insertion numbers
Authors: Bravo Juan I. , Zhang Lucia , Benayoun Bérénice A.
Published: September 2024

LINE-1 (L1) and Alu are two families of transposable elements (TEs) occupying ∼17% and ∼11% of the human genome, respectively. Though only a small fraction of L1 copies is able to produce the machinery to mobilize autonomously, Alu and degenerate L1s can hijack their functional machinery and mobilizein trans. The expression and subsequent mobilization of L1 and Alu can exert pathological effects on their hosts. These features have made them promising focus subjects in studies of aging where they can become active. However, mechanisms regulating TE activity are incompletely characterized, especially in diverse human populations. To address these gaps, we leveraged genomic data from the 1000 Genomes Project to carry out a trans-ethnic GWAS of L1/Alu insertion singletons. These are rare, recently acquired insertions observed in only one person and which we used as proxies for variation in L1/Alu insertion numbers. Our approach identified SNVs in genomic regions containing genes with potential and known TE regulatory properties, and it enriched for SNVs in regions containing known regulators of L1 expression. Moreover, we identified reference TE copies and structural variants that associated with L1/Alu singletons, suggesting their potential contribution to TE insertion number variation. Finally, a transcriptional analysis of lymphoblastoid cells highlighted potential cell cycle alterations in a subset of samples harboring L1/Alu singletons. Collectively, our results suggest that known TE regulatory mechanisms may be active in diverse human populations, expand the list of loci implicated in TE insertion number variability, and reinforce links between TEs and disease.
The High Arctic is dominated by uncharacterized, genetically highly diverse bacteriophages
Authors: Lemieux Audrée , Poulain Alexandre J. , Aris-Brosou Stéphane
Published: September 2024

While the Earth’s virosphere is estimated to be in the range of 1031viral particles, the vast majority of its diversity has yet to be discovered. In recent years, metagenomics has rapidly allowed the identification of viruses, from microenvironments to extreme environments like the High Arctic. However, the High Arctic virome is largely composed of viral sequences that have few, if any, matches to classified viruses in existing databases. Here, to bypass limitations posed by similarity-based strategies, we resorted to a metagenomics approach that placed viral genes found in Lake Hazen, a High Arctic lake, in a phylogenetic context with known viruses. We show that while High Arctic viruses clustered with known bacteriophages, they have undergone unique evolutionary processes characterized by high evolutionary rates, making them distinct from and more diverse than known viruses. A better understanding of how viruses from extreme polar conditions adapt and evolve could help us gain insights on the viral response to climate change and other environmental stressors.
The transcription factor Traffic jam orchestrates the somatic piRNA pathway inDrosophilaovaries
Authors: Alizada Azad , Martins Aline , Mouniée Nolwenn , Rodriguez Suarez Julia V. , Bertin Benjamin , Gueguen Nathalie , Mirouse Vincent , Papameletiou Anna-Maria , Rivera Austin J. , Lau Nelson C. , Akkouche Abdou , Maupetit-Mehouas Stéphanie , Hannon Gregory J. , Nicholson Benjamin Czech , Brasset Emilie
Published: September 2024

The PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA) pathway is essential for transposable element (TE) silencing in animal gonads. While the transcriptional regulation of piRNA pathway components in germ cells has been documented in mice and flies, their control in somatic cells ofDrosophilaovaries remains unresolved. Here, we demonstrate that Traffic jam (Tj), theDrosophilaorthologue of large Maf transcription factors in mammals, is a master regulator of the somatic piRNA pathway. Tj binds to regulatory regions of somatic piRNA factors and the major piRNA clusterflamenco, which carries a Tj-bound enhancer downstream of its promoter. Depletion of Tj in somatic follicle cells causes downregulation of piRNA factors, loss offlamexpression and de-repression ofgypsy-family TEs. We propose that the arms race between the host and TEs led to the co-evolution of promoters in piRNA pathway genes as well as TE regulatory regions that both rely on a shared transcription factor.

Highlights

- Traffic jam (Tj) acts as a master regulator of the somatic piRNA pathway inDrosophila.

- Tj regulates a network of piRNA pathway genes, mirroring the gene-regulatory mechanism of A-MYB in the mouse testis and Ovo in fly ovaries.

-Cis-regulatory elements with Tj motifs are present at the promoters of somatic piRNA pathway genes.

- The expression of theflamencopiRNA cluster is directly controlled by Tj.
Cancer Interception During Treatment: Using Growth Kinetics to Create a Continuous Variable for Assessing Disease Response
Authors: Zhou Mengxi , Fojo Tito , Schwartz Larry , Bates Susan E. , Blagoev Krastan B.
Published: September 2024

Background

We applied 11 mathematical models of tumor growth to clinical trial data available from public and private sources. We have previously described the remarkable capacity for a simple biexponential model of tumor growth to fit thousands of datasets, and to correlate with overall survival. The goal of this study was to extend our analysis to additional tumor types and to evaluate whether alternate growth models could describe the time course of disease burden in the small subset of patients in whom the biexponential model failed.

Methods

For this analysis, we obtained data for tumor burden from 17,140 patients with six different tumor types. Imaging data and serum levels of tumor markers were available for 3,346 and 13,794 patients, respectively. Data from patients were first analyzed using the biexponential model to determine rates of tumor growth (g) and regression (d); for those whose data could not be described by this model, fit of their data was assessed using seven alternative models. The model that minimized the Akaike Information Criterion was selected as the best fit. Using the model that best fit an individual patient’s data, we estimated the rates of growth (g) and regression (d) of disease burden over time. The rates of tumor growth (g) were examined for association with a traditional endpoint (overall survival).

Findings

For each model, the number of patient datasets that fit the model were obtained. As we have previously reported, data from most patients fit a simple model of exponential growth and exponential regression (86%). Data from another 7% of patients fit an alternative model, including 3% fitting to a model of constant or linear regression and exponential growth of tumor on the surface and 3% fitting to model of exponential decay on tumor surface with asymmetric growth. As previously reported, we found that growth rate correlates well with overall survival, remarkably even when data from various histologies are considered together. For patients with multiple timepoints of tumor measurement, the growth rate could often be estimated even during the phase when only net regression of tumor quantity could be discerned.

Interpretation

The validation of a simple mathematical model across different cancers and its application to existing clinical data allowed estimation of the rate of growth of a treatment resistant subpopulation of cancer cells. The quantification of available clinical data using the growth rate of tumors in individual patients and its strong correlation with overall survival makes the growth rate an excellent marker of the efficacy of therapy specific to the individual patient.
Exploring the Phaeosphere: characterizing the microbiomes ofPhaeocystis antarcticacolonies from the coastal Southern Ocean and laboratory culture
Authors: Brisbin Margaret Mars , Acord McCaela , Davitt Rachel , Bent Shavonna , Van Mooy Benjamin A.S. , Flaum Eliott , Norlin Andreas , Turner Jessica , Krinos Arianna , Alexander Harriet , Saito Mak
Published: September 2024

Interactions between phytoplankton and bacteria play critical roles in shaping marine ecosystems. However, the intricate relationships within these communities—particularly in extreme and rapidly changing environments like the coastal Southern Ocean—remain poorly understood. Here, we apply targeted methods to directly characterize the microbiomes of individual colonies ofPhaeocystis antarctica, a keystone phytoplankton species in the Southern Ocean, for the first time. We show that colony microbiomes are consistent in distinct geographic locations at approximately the same time, but shift significantly after a year of laboratory culture. The bacterial orders Alteromonadales, Oceanospirillales, and Sphingomonadales dominated the microbiomes of all field-collected colonies, whereas Caulobacterales, Cellvibrionales, and Rhodobacterales dominated colony microbiomes after culturing. Notably, the most abundant genera in field-collected colony microbiomes, the psychrophilesParaglaciecolaandColwellia,were lost in culture. The shift in microbiome structure emphasizes the importance of field-based studies to capture the complexity of microbial interactions, especially for species from polar environments that are difficult to replicate in laboratory conditions. Furthermore, the relative abundances of bacterial taxa comprising the majority of field-collected colony microbiomes—e.g.,Paraglaciecola sp.(Alteromonadales) and Nitrincolaceae (Oceanospirillales)—were strongly associated withPhaeocystisabundance in surface waters, highlighting their potential roles in bloom dynamics and carbon cycling. This research provides valuable insights into the ecological significance of prokaryotic interactions with a key phytoplankton species and underscores the necessity of considering these dynamics in the context of climate-driven shifts in marine ecosystems.
EPOP Restricts PRC2.1 Targeting to Chromatin by Directly Modulating Enzyme Complex Dimerization
Authors: Gong Lihu , Liu Xiuli , Yang Xin , Yu Ze , Chen Siming , Xing Chao , Liu Xin
Published: September 2024

Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) mediates developmental gene repression as two classes of holocomplexes, PRC2.1 and PRC2.2. EPOP is an accessory subunit specific to PRC2.1, which also contains PCL proteins. Unlike other accessory subunits that collectively facilitate PRC2 targeting, EPOP was implicated in an enigmatic inhibitory role, together with its interactor Elongin BC. We report an unusual molecular mechanism whereby EPOP regulates PRC2.1 by directly modulating its oligomerization state. EPOP disrupts the PRC2.1 dimer and weakens its chromatin association, likely by disabling the avidity effect conferred by the dimeric complex. Congruently, an EPOP mutant specifically defective in PRC2 binding enhances genome-wide enrichments of MTF2 and H3K27me3 in mouse epiblast-like cells. Elongin BC is largely dispensable for the EPOP-mediated inhibition of PRC2.1. EPOP defines a distinct subclass of PRC2.1, which uniquely maintains an epigenetic program by preventing the over-repression of key gene regulators along the continuum of early differentiation.
Efficient genome replication in influenza A virus requires NS2 and sequence beyond the canonical promoter
Authors: Swaminath Sharmada , Mendes Marisa , Zhang Yipeng , Remick Kaleigh A. , Mejia Isabel , Güereca Melissa , te Velthuis Aartjan J.W. , Russell Alistair B.
Published: September 2024

Influenza A virus encodes promoters in both the sense and antisense orientations. These support the generation of new genomes, antigenomes, and mRNA transcripts. Using minimal replication assays—transfections with viral polymerase, nucleoprotein, and a genomic template—the influenza promoter sequences were identified as 13nt at the 5’ end of the viral genomic RNA (U13) and 12nt at the 3’ end (U12). Other than the fourth 3’ nucleotide, the U12 and U13 sequences are identical between all eight RNA molecules that comprise the segmented influenza genome. Despite possessing identical promoters, individual segments can exhibit different transcriptional dynamics during infection. However flu promoter sequences were defined in experiments without influenza NS2, a protein which modulates transcription and replication differentially between genomic segments. This suggests that the identity of the “complete” promoter may depend on NS2. Here we assess how internal sequences of two genomic segments, HA and PB1, may contribute to NS2-dependent replication as well as map such interactions down to individual nucleotides in PB1. We find that the expression of NS2 significantly alters sequence requirements for efficient replication beyond the identical U12 and U13 sequence, providing a mechanism for the divergent replication and transcription dynamics across the influenza A virus genome.
Measuring the neurodevelopmental trajectory of excitatory-inhibitory balance via visual gamma oscillations
Authors: Rhodes Natalie , Rier Lukas , Singh Krish D. , Sato Julie , Vandewouw Marlee M. , Holmes Niall , Boto Elena , Hill Ryan M. , Rea Molly , Taylor Margot J. , Brookes Matthew J.
Published: September 2024

Disruption of the balance between excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission (E-I balance) underlies theories of many neurodevelopmental disorders, however, its study is typically restricted to adults, animal models and the lab-bench. Neurophysiological oscillations in the gamma frequency band relate closely to E-I balance, and a new technology – OPM-MEG – offers the possibility to measure such signals across the lifespan. We used OPM-MEG to measure gamma oscillations induced by visual stimulation in >100 participants, aged 2-34 years. We demonstrate a significantly changing spectrum with age, with low amplitude broadband gamma oscillations in children and high amplitude band limited oscillations dominating in adults. We used a canonical cortical microcircuit to model these gamma signals, revealing significant age-related shifts in E-I balance in superficial pyramidal neurons in visual cortex. Our findings detail the first MEG metrics of gamma oscillations and their underlying generators from toddlerhood, providing a benchmark against which future studies can contextualise.
New proxies for second-order cumulants of conserved charges in heavy-ion collisions within the EPOS4 framework
Authors: Jahan Johannes , Ratti Claudia , Stefaniak Maria , Werner Klaus
Published: September 2024

Proxies for cumulants of baryon number B, electric charge Q, and strangeness S are usually measured in heavy-ion collisions via moments of net-number distribution of given hadronic species. Since these cumulants of conserved charges are expected to be sensitive to the existence of a critical point in the phase diagram of nuclear matter, it is crucial to ensure that the proxies used as substitutes are as close to them as possible. Hence, we use the 4 framework to generate Au+Au collisions at several collision energies of the BNL Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider beam energy scan. We compute second-order net cumulants of π, K, and p, for which experimental data have been published as well as the corresponding conserved charge cumulants. We then compare them with proxies, defined in previous lattice QCD and hadron resonance gas model studies, which are shown to reproduce more accurately their associated conserved charge cumulants. We investigate the impact of hadronic rescatterings occurring in the late evolution of the system on these quantities, as well as the amount of signal actually originating from the bulk medium which endures a phase transition.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Speed of sound and isothermal compressibility in a magnetized quark matter with anomalous magnetic moment of quarks
Authors: Mondal Rajkumar , Duari Sourav , Chaudhuri Nilanjan , Sarkar Sourav , Roy Pradip
Published: September 2024

We study the characteristics of quark matter under the influence of a background magnetic field with an anomalous magnetic moment of quarks at finite temperature and quark chemical potential in the framework of a Polyakov loop extended Nambu-Jona-Lasinio model. In the presence of a magnetic field, the speed of sound and isothermal compressibility become anisotropic with respect to the direction of the background magnetic field, splitting into parallel and perpendicular directions with respect to the magnetic field. Though the qualitative nature of parallel and perpendicular components of squared speed of sound appear similar, they differ in magnitude at lower values of temperature. The parallel and perpendicular components of isothermal compressibility decrease with increasing temperature, indicating a trend towards increased incompressible strongly interacting matter. On inclusion of the anomalous magnetic moment of quarks, the perpendicular component of isothermal compressibility becomes greater than the parallel component. Additionally, we investigate the quark number susceptibility normalized by its value at zero magnetic field, which may indicate the presence of magnetic fields in the system.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Search for the production of dark matter in the framework of a mono-
Z′
portal at the ILC with simulated electron-positron collisions at
s=500  GeV
Authors: Elgammal S.
Published: September 2024

In the present work, we study the possible production of the light neutral gauge boson (Z′) candidates, which originated from a simplified-model scenario based on the mono-Z′ model, in association with dark matter. This study has been performed by studying events with dimuon plus missing transverse energy produced in the simulated electron-positron collisions at the foreseen International Linear Collider (ILC), operating at 500 GeV center of mass energy and integrated luminosity of 1000  fb−1. In case no new physics has been discovered, we set upper limits at 95% confidence level on the masses of various particles in the model as, spin-1 (Z′), as well as the fermionic dark matter.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Tightening the reins on nonminimal dark sector physics: Interacting dark energy with dynamical and nondynamical equation of state
Authors: Giarè William , Zhai Yuejia , Pan Supriya , Di Valentino Eleonora , Nunes Rafael C. , van de Bruck Carsten
Published: September 2024

We present a comprehensive reassessment of the state of interacting dark energy (DE) cosmology, namely models featuring a nongravitational interaction between dark matter and DE. To achieve high generality, we extend the dark sector physics by considering two different scenarios: a nondynamical DE equation of state w0≠−1, and a dynamical w(a)=w0+wa(1−a). In both cases, we distinguish two different physical regimes resulting from a phantom or quintessence equation of state. To circumvent early time superhorizon instabilities, the energy-momentum transfer should occur in opposing directions within the two regimes, resulting in distinct phenomenological outcomes. We study quintessence and phantom nondynamical and dynamical models in light of two independent cosmic microwave background (CMB) experiments—the Planck satellite and the Atacama Cosmology Telescope. We analyze CMB data both independently and in combination with supernovae distance moduli measurements from the catalog and baryon acoustic oscillations from the SDSS-IV eBOSS survey. Our results update and extend the state-of-the-art analyses, significantly narrowing the parameter space allowed for these models and limiting their overall ability to reconcile cosmological tensions. Although considering different combinations of data leaves some freedom to increase H0 towards the value measured by the SH0ES collaboration, our most constraining dataset (CMB+baryon acoustic oscillations+supernovae) indicates that fully reconciling the tension solely within the framework of interacting DE remains challenging.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Strong coupling electron-photon dynamics: A real-time investigation of energy redistribution in molecular polaritons
Authors: Castagnola Matteo , Lexander Marcus T. , Ronca Enrico , Koch Henrik
Published: September 2024

We analyze the real-time electron-photon dynamics in long- and short-range energy transfer using a real-time quantum electrodynamics coupled cluster model, which allows for spatial and temporal visualization of transport processes. We compute the time evolution of photonic and molecular observables, such as the dipole moment and the photon coordinate, following the excitation of the system induced by short laser pulses. Our simulations show that intermolecular interactions and light-matter strong coupling lead to modified electronic polarization compared to the undressed molecules. The developed method can simulate multiple high-intensity laser pulses while explicitly retaining electronic and electron-photon correlation and is thus suited for nonlinear optics and transient absorption spectroscopies of molecular polaritons.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
A holistic empirical approach to marketing activities and performance interaction in banking industry: the mediating role of customer-based brand equity
Authors: Akdogan Cagla Burcin , Uray Nimet , Ulengin Burc , Kiygi-Calli Meltem
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the direct impacts of marketing resources and marketing activities on several business performance indicators in the banking industry and the indirect effects through customer-based brand equity.

Design/methodology/approach

We use a holistic empirical approach based on resource-based view and marketing productivity chain. The main study consists of a secondary analysis using quarterly data of fourteen banks over four years. We analyze the data using fixed-effect panel data regression, namely seemingly unrelated regressions.

Findings

We find that customer-based brand equity is one of the most influential factors on business performance. Moreover, the indirect effect through customer-based brand equity should be considered in improving business performance. Marketing-related financial resources positively impact customer-based brand equity and business performance. Regarding marketing activities, pricing strategies affect the bank preferences of customers, which in turn affect the growth of deposit volumes and churn rates. Additionally, the number of bank branches positively impacts business performance. Advertising spending on different media has differentiated impacts on the performance indicators; thus, the allocation of advertising budget and advertising planning are critical.

Originality/value

This study examines the inter-relationships among marketing resources, marketing activities, consumer response through brand equity and marketing performance. This study contributes to the literature by integrating the resource-based view and the marketing productivity chain to analyze the inter-relationships using panel data and several sector-related metrics. This study provides valuable insights to decision-makers in the banking industry.
Impact of coopetition on the performance outcomes of international construction joint ventures: a contingency and configuration approach
Authors: Xie Qiuhao , Zhang Shuibo , Gao Ying , Qi Jingyan , Feng Zhuo
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Although the literature recognizes that coopetition plays a significant role in the success of international construction joint ventures (ICJVs), the impacts of coopetition on the performance outcomes of ICJVs remain largely unknown. This study extends this line of research by theorizing coopetition from three dimensions, i.e. coopetition intensity, coopetition balance and coopetition structure, and examining the relationships between coopetition and ICJV performance outcomes from both the contingency and configuration perspectives.

Design/methodology/approach

The hypotheses were tested using survey data from a sample of 188 ICJVs. Structural equation modelling was employed for the contingency approach to estimate the relationships between the three dimensions of coopetition and performance. For the configuration approach, cluster analysis was utilized to identify coopetition patterns. Subsequently, an analysis of variance was employed to analyse the relationships between these coopetition patterns and performance.

Findings

The contingency results indicate that while coopetition intensity is positively related to all types of performance, coopetition balance is only positively related to project performance and partner performance. Moreover, coopetition structure is only related to partner performance and socioenvironmental performance. The configuration approach identifies six patterns of coopetition, manifesting different levels of project, partner and socioenvironmental performance.

Originality/value

These findings, therefore, contribute to the ICJV literature by extending the understanding of how coopetition dimensions individually and jointly influence ICJV performance.
Global perspectives on redefining workplace presence: the impact of remote work on organizational culture
Authors: Bilderback Stephanie , Kilpatrick Matthew D.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the impact of remote work on organizational culture, focusing on redefining workplace presence during the COVID-19 pandemic. It examines changes in communication patterns, employee engagement and leadership practices, offering insights into how organizations can adapt their cultural frameworks for a remote or hybrid workforce.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a conceptual approach, this paper draws on existing literature, theories and case studies to analyze the implications of remote work for organizational culture. It examines the practical applications of theoretical frameworks such as Kotter's 8-Step Change Model, the Competing Values Framework, Social Exchange Theory, Role Theory, Self-Determination Theory and Equity Theory.

Findings

The findings indicate that the transition to remote work necessitates changes in communication patterns, collaboration, employee engagement and the sense of belonging. It also highlights the critical role of leadership in fostering a positive remote work culture, requiring organizations to adapt to a paradigm where presence is measured by engagement and productivity rather than physical visibility.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to understanding the impact of remote work on organizational culture by integrating various theoretical frameworks and providing practical implications for managing remote work environments. It comprehensively analyzes the challenges and opportunities the shift to remote work presents and provides recommendations for organizations to navigate this transition successfully.
The impact of gamification on meaningful learning and student performance in an undergraduate online engineering course
Authors: Madero-Gonzalez Cecilia , Vazquez-Hernandez Jesus , Gonzalez Aleu Fernando
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impact of gamification on the five dimensions of meaningful learning (i.e. cooperative, active, authentic, constructive and intentional learning) and undergraduate student performance taking online lessons.

Design/methodology/approach

Therefore, the authors conducted an experiment among undergraduate students taking online classes at the Mechanical and Electrical Engineering School at a public university during the COVID-19 pandemic. The experiment included one control and two observation groups using gamification (Golden Points). Qualitative and quantitative analyses were performed.

Findings

Results showed that gamification significantly affects meaningful learning and impacts student performance in online courses.

Originality/value

This study was limited to a single topic in a six-month course at a public university. Additional research is required to continue examining the impact of gamification in higher education institutions with different format courses and in other organisational sectors.
Exploring off-chain voting and blockchain in decentralized autonomous organizations
Authors: Monteiro Thiago Dias , Sanchez Otavio Próspero , Moraes Gustavo Hermínio Salati Marcondes de
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The current scenario shows increased adoption of off-chain voting applications in decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) to avoid complexity and costs for user engagement in their governance. This paper aims to comprehend the trends and patterns within the DAO community with off-chain voting systems and blockchain usage.

Design/methodology/approach

This exploratory study uses a two-pronged quantitative approach, combining descriptive statistical analysis and fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis. Input data from different DAO proposals and votes were analyzed.

Findings

Results indicate that the 179 DAOs analyzed account for 26,538 proposals and 1,268,474 followers of the entire Snapshot base in January 2023, showing high concentration in engagement. The preferred social media communication channels are Twitter and GitHub, showing a decrease of Ethereum as a main chain, with Polygon and Binance Smart Chain already accounting for 22%. Basic voting can lead to greater user involvement in the voting process.

Research limitations/implications

This study complements the traditional governance theory perspective and advances in the emerging literature on DAOs and blockchain with an empirical analysis.

Practical implications

As blockchain technology gains increasing adoption, comprehending trends and patterns within the DAO community becomes pivotal in identifying opportunities and challenges for innovation and improvement.

Social implications

Findings can facilitate the development of improved governance models and decision-making processes for DAOs, leading to a more robust and sustainable ecosystem.

Originality/value

This study presents a broader IT-based governance foresight via blockchain while providing an understanding of the voting process, technology features and governance mechanisms for social community engagement and decision-making in DAOs.
Deciphering CEO disclosure tone inconsistency: a behavioural exploration
Authors: Pouryousof Azam , Nassirzadeh Farzaneh , Askarany Davood
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This research employs a behavioural approach to investigate the determinants of CEO disclosure tone inconsistency. By examining CEO characteristics and psychological attributes, the study aims to unravel the complexities underlying tone variations in Management Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) reports. Through this exploration, the research seeks to contribute to understanding ethical considerations in corporate communications and provide insights into the nuanced interplay between personal, job-related and psychological factors influencing CEO disclosure tone.

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilises a dataset comprising 1,411 MD&A reports from 143 companies listed on the Tehran Stock Exchange between 2012 and 2021. Multiple regression analyses with year- and industry-fixed effects are employed to examine the relationships between CEO gender, tenure, duality, ability and psychological attributes such as narcissism, myopia, overconfidence and tone inconsistency. Data analysis involves MAXQDA software for analysing MD&A reports and Rahavard Novin software for document analysis, supplemented by audited financial statements.

Findings

The findings reveal significant relationships between CEO characteristics, psychological attributes and tone inconsistency. Female CEOs exhibit reduced tone inconsistency, contrasting with previous research trends. CEO tenure correlates negatively with tone inconsistency, whereas CEO ability shows a positive correlation, indicating a nuanced relationship with performance. However, CEO duality does not exhibit a significant association. Psychological attributes such as narcissism and myopia are positively associated with tone inconsistency, while no substantial connection is found with managerial overconfidence.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the inaugural exploration of CEO disclosure tone inconsistency through a behavioural lens, advancing measurement precision in the field. By delving into CEO characteristics and psychological attributes, the study offers unique insights into the roots of tone inconsistency. Applying comprehensive lexicon and phraseology enriches the methodological approach, fostering dialogue among diverse stakeholders and adding distinct perspectives to the discourse on ethical issues in business. Through its meticulous examination of behavioural underpinnings, this study becomes a catalyst for reflection, dialogue and progress in corporate communications and ethical considerations.
Tensions in work integration social enterprises in The Netherlands: balancing social and commercial goals in a multi-stakeholder context
Authors: Drupsteen Linda , Meerstra-de Haan Erzsi
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Social enterprises have proven to play a vital role in the transitions towards inclusive labour markets and sustainable economies. Yet, they often struggle to flourish within traditional economic systems due to the dual mission of pursuing social and commercial goals, leading to inherent tensions for social entrepreneurs. This study aims to explore tensions within work integration social enterprises (WISEs) arising from their dual mission and engagement with multiple stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

Interviews with representatives from ten Dutch WISEs were conducted to understand their day-to-day challenges. The typology by Smith and Lewis (2011), focusing on learning, belonging, organising and performing tensions, was used for data analysis.

Findings

The study reveals tensions between social impact and commercial viability, with organisational challenges being predominant. Also, there is an observed temporal pattern in tension prominence: early stages emphasise belonging, organising and performing tensions, while learning tensions become more prominent as enterprises mature.

Originality/value

This study offers insights into tensions within WISEs, highlighting the complexity of managing multiple identities in a multi-stakeholder context. By drawing on practical experiences, it contributes nuanced understanding to existing literature.
Implementation of Six Sigma methodology in a medical equipment manufacturing company
Authors: Sreekanth V. , Kavilal E.G. , Krishna Sanu , Mohan Nidhun
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to highlight how the six sigma methods helped the medical equipment manufacturing company in finding and analysing the root causes that lead to the reduction in production rate, rejection rates, quality and other major causes that lead to the reduction in productivity of the blood bags manufacturing unit.

Design/methodology/approach

Given the critical nature of blood bag manufacturing Six Sigma was chosen as the primary methodology for this research since Six Sigma’s data-driven approach provides a structured framework to identify, analyse and rectify inefficiencies in the production processes. This study proposes the Six Sigma DMAIC (D-Define, M-Measure, A-Analyse, I-Improve, C-Control) encompassing rigorous problem definition, precise measurement, thorough analysis, improvement and vigilant control mechanisms for effectively attaining predetermined objectives.

Findings

The paper demonstrates how the Six Sigma principles were executed in a blood bag manufacturing unit. After a detailed and thorough data analysis, it was found that a total of 40 critical-to-quality factors under the five drivers such as Machine, Components, Inspection and Testing, People and Workspace were influential factors affecting the manufacturing of blood bags. From the study, it is identified that the drivers such as inspection and testing, components and machines contribute significantly to increasing productivity.

Research limitations/implications

The paper offers valuable strategic insights into implementing Six Sigma methodologies within the specific context of a blood bag manufacturing unit. The Six Sigma tools and techniques used by the project team to solve issues within the blood bag manufacturing unit can be used for similar healthcare organizations to successfully deploy Six Sigma. The insights from this research might not be directly applicable to other manufacturing facilities or industries but can be used as a guiding reference for researchers and managers.

Originality/value

The current state of scholarly literature indicates a significant absence in the examination of Six Sigma methodologies designed specifically to improve production output in healthcare equipment manufacturing. This paper highlights the application of Six Sigma principles to enhance efficiency in the specific context of blood bag manufacturing.
Soil fungi lead to stronger ‘diminishing returns’ in fine‐root length versus mass allometry towards earlier successional tropical forests
Authors: Guo Zijian , Miao Wenhao , Lyu Yueming , Wang Xiangping
Published: September 2024

Decreasing returns in resource acquisition ability with increasing leaf mass investment is called ‘diminishing returns’, which provides important insights into plant economy. Yet, whether this is true for fine roots and how root resource acquisition strategies change with forest succession remain unclear.

We investigated the scaling relationship between fine‐root length (L) and mass (M) for 215 topsoil cores from 24 plots across four successional stages in tropical forests of Xishuangbanna, southwestern China. We also assessed the relative effects of edaphic conditions, leaf functional traits, tree species diversity and soil fungal factors on L versus M scaling relationship using hierarchical variation partitioning.

Our results revealed the existence of diminishing returns in root length (L vs. M scaling exponent <1), and that the exponent was higher in late‐ than early‐successional forests, corresponding to a strategy shifting from ‘do‐it‐yourself’ in the late‐successional stage to ‘outsourcing’ resource uptake by soil fungi in the early‐successional stage. Soil fungal abundance was the main driver of changes in the L versus M scaling exponent across plots (explained 58% of variances), with root endophytic fungi the strongest predictor (22.11%), followed by mycorrhizal fungi (10.41%), while other factors (leaf functional traits, edaphic nutrient conditions and tree species diversity) exerted weak effects.

Our results suggest that root endophytic and mycorrhizal fungi act as key modulators of root economy changes during forest succession, but the former has received less attention previously. L versus M scaling exponent may be a better indicator for shifts in root resource acquisition strategy than the commonly used specific root length.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Wastewater‐based evaluation of the efficacy of oxycodone regulations in Australia
Authors: Verhagen Rory , Gerber Cobus , Thai Phong K. , Connor Jason , Loveday Bill , Bade Richard , O'Brien Jake , Jaunay Emma L. , Simpson Bradley S. , Chan Gary , Hall Wayne , Thomas Kevin V. , Mueller Jochen F. , Tscharke Benjamin J.
Published: September 2024

Background and Aims

Between 2018 and 2020, Australia implemented major policy changes to improve the quality and safety of opioid prescribing, with a specific focus on oxycodone. This study used wastewater‐based epidemiology to assess the efficacy of Australia's regulatory reforms by measuring change in consumption of oxycodone via exploratory analysis.

Design, setting, participants, measurements

Wastewater analysis data on oxycodone consumption was from the National Wastewater Drug Monitoring Program. The program captures data from more than 50 wastewater treatment plant catchments across Australia, equivalent to more than 50% of the national population. Geographic trend analyses were conducted for both major cities and regional areas within all states and territories of Australia over a 6‐year period between 2017 and 2023.

Findings

Oxycodone consumption showed a statistically significant increase nationally from 78 mg/day/1000 people (95% confidence interval [CI] = 71, 84) in 2017 to 120 mg/day/1000 people in August 2019 (95% CI = 110, 120), an increase of 52% (95% CI = 42, 62, P < 0.0001). From August 2019 to December 2020, there was a statistically significant decrease from 120 to 65 mg/day/1000 people (95% CI = 60, 71), a decrease of 45% (95% CI = 40, 51), followed by a modest 2.4% increase to the end of the study period in April 2023 (95% CI [2.0,2.7]).

Conclusions

A 45% reduction in oxycodone consumption in Australia from 2019 to 2020 coincided with national policy changes that aimed to reduce consumption of prescription opioids. The overall declining trend in consumption was suggestive of the effectiveness of national interventions in reducing pharmaceutical opioid use. Wastewater‐based epidemiology provides an effective approach for assessing the effectiveness of controlled substances policy changes.
On optimal betting strategies with multiple mutually exclusive outcomes
Authors: Whelan Karl
Published: September 2024

We examine the problem of how much risk‐averse agents would be willing to bet on events where there are multiple possible winners but only one will actually win. We describe how this problem can be solved for concave utility functions and illustrate the properties of the solution. The optimal betting strategy is more aggressive than strategies derived from considering each outcome separately such as the Kelly criterion. The strategy also recommends sometimes placing bets with negative expected returns because they act as hedges against losses on other bets. While this strategy maximizes the bettor's subjective expected utility, if betting odds incorporate a profit margin and reflect underlying probabilities correctly, then this more aggressive approach loses more money and results in lower realized utility.
An adenosinergic positive feedback loop extends pharmacological cardioprotection duration
Authors: Wölkart Gerald , Gissing Simon , Stessel Heike , Fassett Erin K. , Klösch Burkhard , Greene Robert W. , Mayer Bernd , Fassett John T.
Published: September 2024

Background and Purpose

Adenosine receptor activation induces delayed, sustained cardioprotection against ischaemia–reperfusion (IR) injury (24–72 h), but the mechanisms underlying extended cardioprotection duration remain unresolved. We hypothesized that a positive feedback loop involving adenosine receptor‐induced proteasomal degradation of adenosine kinase (ADK) and decreased myocardial adenosine metabolism extends the duration of cardioprotection.

Experimental Approach

Mice were administered an ADK inhibitor, ABT‐702, to induce endogenous adenosine signalling. Cardiac ADK protein and mRNA levels were analysed 24–120 h later. Theophylline or bortezomib was administered 24 h after ABT‐702 to examine the late roles of adenosine receptors or proteasomal activity, respectively, in ADK expression and cardioprotection at 72 h. Coronary flow and IR tolerance were analysed by Langendorff technique. The potential for continuous adenosinergic cardioprotection was examined using heterozygous, cardiac‐specific ADK KO (cADK+/−) mice. Cardiac ADK expression was also examined after A1 or A3 receptor agonist, phenylephrine, lipopolysaccharide or sildenafil administration.

Key results

ABT‐702 treatment decreased ADK protein content and provided cardioprotection from 24 to 72 h. ADK mRNA upregulation restored ADK protein after 96–120 h. Adenosine receptor or proteasome inhibition at 24 h reversed ABT‐702‐induced ADK protein deficit and cardioprotection at 72 h. cADK+/− hearts exhibited continuous cardioprotection. Diverse preconditioning agents also diminished cardiac ADK protein expression.

Conclusion and Implications

A positive feedback loop driven by adenosine receptor‐induced ADK degradation and renewed adenosine signalling extends the duration of cardioprotection by ABT‐702 and possibly other preconditioning agents. The therapeutic potential of continuous adenosinergic cardioprotection is demonstrated in cADK+/− hearts.
Die fünfte Auflage der WHO‐Klassifikation – Was ist neu für kutane Lymphome?
Authors: Melchers Susanne , Albrecht Jana D. , Kempf Werner , Nicolay Jan P.
Published: September 2024

Die kürzlich veröffentlichte fünfte Ausgabe der „World Health Organization classification of hematolymphoid tumors: lymphoid neoplasms“ bietet eine Umstrukturierung der Hierarchie der Entitäten. Im Allgemeinen wurden neue (definitive) Entitäten sowie tumorähnliche Läsionen aufgenommen.

Die primären kutanen B‐Zell‐Lymphome (CBCL) wurden einer gründlichen Revision unterzogen. Es wurde eine neue Klasse/Familie von kutanen Follikelzentrumslymphomen definiert. Das primäre kutane Marginalzonen‐Lymphom stellt nun eine eigenständige Entität unabhängig vom extranodalen Marginalzonen‐Lymphom des Mukosa‐assoziierten lymphatischen Gewebes dar. Beim primären kutanen T‐Zell‐Lymphom wurden frühere provisorische Entitäten zu definitiven Entitäten aufgewertet. Das Sézary‐Syndrom wurde in die Klasse/Familie der reifen T‐Zell‐ und NK‐Zell‐Leukämien eingeordnet. Darüber hinaus wurde eine neue Entität, das primäre kutane periphere T‐Zell‐Lymphom, NOS, für CTCL‐Entitäten geschaffen, die sich nicht in den bereits beschriebenen CTCL‐Entitäten zuordnen lassen.

Die zunehmende Bedeutung genomischer und molekularer Eigenschaften wurde bereits bei der Klassifizierung von Leukämien und systemischen Lymphomen erkannt. Bei PCL ist die genomische Landschaft jedoch noch nicht vollständig beschrieben und validiert. Daher sind künftige Forschungsprojekte erforderlich, um die den Krankheitsentitäten zugrunde liegenden genomischen und molekularen Mechanismen genauer zu untersuchen. Hierfür besteht ein Bedarf in der Diagnostik und dies wäre ein wertvoller Beitrag zu künftigen Klassifikationsschemata.
Retrospektive Studie zum postoperativen Überleben von Patienten mit keratinozytärem Hautkrebs am Lebensende
Authors: Ahmadipour Mahya , Kitzwögerer Melitta , Trautinger Franz
Published: September 2024

Hintergrund und Ziele

Basalzell‐ (BCC) und Plattenepithelkarzinome (SCC), die unter der Bezeichnung keratinozytäre Hauttumoren (keratinocyte‐derived skin cancer, KC) zusammengefasst werden, sind weltweit die häufigsten Krebsarten beim Menschen. Die chirurgische Behandlung ist die Therapie der Wahl, kann aber bei sehr alten Patienten eine Übertherapie darstellen. Ziel dieser Studie ist es, die Lebenserwartung von Patienten über 80 Jahren nach einer Operation zu untersuchen.

Patienten und Methodik

An der Abteilung für Dermatologie und Venerologie des Universitätsklinikums St. Pölten, Österreich, wurde eine monozentrische, retrospektive Studie mit zwischen dem 01.01.2011 und dem 31.12.2017 chirurgisch behandelten KC‐Patienten, die zum Operationszeitpunkt 80 Jahre oder älter waren, durchgeführt. Die Daten zum individuellen Überleben (Stichtag 30. April 2020), zum Todesdatum und zur Todesursache wurden aus der österreichischen Bevölkerungsdatenbank der Statistik Austria (Wien) entnommen.

Ergebnisse

940 Patienten (450 Frauen, 490 Männer, 639 BCC, 301 SCC) wurden eingeschlossen, von denen 307 zum Stichtag noch lebten. Die mediane postoperative Überlebenszeit betrug 57 Monate (95%‐KI: 54–63 Monate).

Schlussfolgerungen

Mit einer medianen postoperativen Überlebenszeit von fast 5 Jahren bleibt die Operation eine valide Behandlungsoption für KC am Lebensende. Allerdings starben 77 der behandelten Patienten innerhalb eines Jahres nach der Operation und eine bessere präoperative Beurteilung des Sterberisikos hätte in einigen dieser Fälle möglicherweise dazu beigetragen, eine Überbehandlung zu vermeiden.