bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sustained Strain Applied at High Rates Drives Dynamic Tensioning in Epithelial Cells
Authors: Safa Bahareh Tajvidi , Rosenbohm Jordan , Esfahani Amir Monemian , Minnick Grayson , Moghaddam Amir Ostadi , Lavrik Nickolay V. , Huang Changjin , Charras Guillaume , Kabla Alexandre , Yang Ruiguo
Published: August 2024

Epithelial cells experience long lasting loads of different magnitudes and rates. How they adapt to these loads strongly impacts tissue health. Yet, much remains unknown about the evolution of cellular stress in response to sustained strain. Here, by subjecting cell pairs to sustained strain, we report a bimodal stress response, where in addition to the typically observed stress relaxation, a subset of cells exhibits a dynamic tensioning process with significant elevation in stress within 100s, resembling active pulling-back in muscle fibers. Strikingly, the fraction of cells exhibiting tensioning increases with increasing strain rate. The tensioning response is accompanied by actin remodeling, and perturbation to actin abrogates it, supporting cell contractility’s role in the response. Collectively, our data show that epithelial cells adjust their tensional states over short timescales in a strain-rate dependent manner to adapt to sustained strains, demonstrating that the active pulling-back behavior could be a common protective mechanism against environmental stress.
Sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 3 activation promotes sociability and regulates the expression of genes associated with anxiolytic-like behavior
Authors: Castro-Vildosola Jose , Bryan Chris-Ann , Tajamal Nasira , Jonnalagadda Sai Anusha , Kasturi Akhila , Tilly Jaqueline , Garcia Isabel , Kumar Renuka , Fried Nathan T. , Hala Tamara , Corbett Brian F.
Published: August 2024

We previously demonstrated that sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 3 (S1PR3) in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) prevents stress-mediated reductions in sociability. S1PR3 is a ubiquitously expressed G-protein coupled receptor that regulates immune system function, although its regulation of other biological processes is not well understood. Pharmacological activators of S1PR3 might provide important insights for understanding the neural substrates underlying sociability and/or serve as novel, preclinical treatments for social anxiety. Here we show that in mice, systemic injections of an S1PR3-specific agonist, CYM5541, promotes sociability in males and females whereas an S1PR3-specific antagonist, CAY10444, increases amygdala activation and promotes social anxiety-like behavior in females. S1PR3 expression is increased in the mPFC and dentate gyrus of females compared to males. RNA sequencing in the mPFC reveals that S1PR3 activation alters the expression of transcripts related to immune function, neurotransmission, transmembrane ion transport, and intracellular signaling. This work provides evidence that S1PR3 agonists, which have classically been used as immune modulators, might also be used as novel anxiolytics. S1PR3 might be an important hub gene for anxiolytic effects as it reduces inflammatory processes caused by stress and increases transcripts linked to anxiolytic neurotransmission.

Highlights

The Sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 3 (S1PR3) agonist CYM5541 promotes sociability

The S1PR3 antagonist CAY10444 reduces sociability and promotes anxiety-like behavior in females

CAY10444 increases neuronal activity markers in the amygdala

Pharmacological activation of S1PR3 regulates the expression of genes in the prefrontal cortex that control a wide range of biological processes, including increasing GABAergic neurotransmission and reducing inflammatory processes
T cells promote distinct transcriptional programs of cutaneous inflammatory disease in keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts
Authors: DeBerg Hannah A. , Fahning Mitch L. , Varkhande Suraj R. , Schlenker James D. , Schmitt William P. , Gupta Aayush , Singh Archana , Gratz Iris K. , Carlin Jeffrey S. , Campbell Daniel J. , Morawski Peter A.
Published: August 2024

T cells and structural cells coordinate appropriate inflammatory responses and restoration of barrier integrity following insult. Dysfunctional T cells precipitate skin pathology occurring alongside altered structural cell frequencies and transcriptional states, but to what extent different T cells promote disease-associated changes remains unclear. We show that functionally diverse circulating and skin-resident CD4+CLA+T cell populations promote distinct transcriptional outcomes in human keratinocytes and fibroblasts associated with inflamed or healthy tissue. We identify Th17 cell-induced genes in keratinocytes that are enriched in psoriasis patient skin and normalized by anti-IL-17 therapy. We also describe a CD103+skin-resident T cell-induced transcriptional module enriched in healthy controls that is diminished during psoriasis and scleroderma and show that CD103+T cell frequencies are altered during disease. Interrogating clinical data using immune-dependent transcriptional signatures defines the T cell subsets and genes distinguishing inflamed from healthy skin and allows investigation of heterogeneous patient responses to biologic therapy.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
Delivery of novel replicating vectors toSynechococcussp. PCC 7002 via natural transformation of plasmid multimers
Authors: Kamoku Cody , Cooper Cheyanna , Straub Ashley , Miller Nathan , Nielsen David R
Published: August 2024

In most cyanobacteria, genetic engineering efforts currently rely upon chromosomal integration; a time-consuming process due to their polyploid nature. To enhance strain construction, here we develop and characterize two novel replicating plasmids for use inSynechococcussp. PCC 7002. Following an initial screen of plasmids comprising seven different origins of replication, two were found capable of replication: one based on the WVO1 broad host range plasmid and the other a shuttle vector derived from pCB2.4 fromSynechocystissp. PCC 6803. These were then used to construct a set of new replicating plasmids, which were shown to be both co-transformable and stably maintained in PCC 7002 at copy numbers between 0.6-1.4 and 7-16, respectively. Lastly, we demonstrate the importance of using multimeric plasmids during natural transformation of PCC 7002, with higher order multimers providing a 30-fold increase in transformation efficiency relative to monomeric plasmids. Useful considerations and methods for enhancing multimer content in plasmid samples are also presented.
Natural Selection in a Synthetic Yeast Endosymbiont Promotes Stable Coexistence
Authors: Supekova Lubica , Zhou Han , Barcellos Izabella H. , Nguyen Catherine , Dik David A. , Schultz Peter G.
Published: August 2024

Bacteria engulfment by a higher order host is believed to be the beginning of an evolutionary process that ultimately formed mitochondria. In an effort to experimentally elucidate the early effects of natural selection on bacteria resident in a eukaryotic host, a synthetic endosymbiont model system has been exploited. Here we describe a reproducible series of mutations that were observed afterEscherichia coliwas passaged withinSaccharomyces cerevisiaefor >8 passages which led to enhanced coexistence of bacteria within the yeast. These naturally selected mutations, formed by gene acquisition of trans-posable elements inrcsC, cpxA, andidnK, result in both functional and non-functional protein products with phenotypic effects on the bacteria that promote endosymbiont stability.
Single-molecule tracking reveals the dynamics of Ipl1 recruitment to the kinetochores and spindles inS. cerevisiae
Authors: Podh Nitesh Kumar , Das Ayan , Kumari Akriti , Garg Kirti , Yadav Rashmi , Kashyap Kirti , Islam Sahil , Gupta Anupam , Mehta Gunjan
Published: August 2024

Aurora kinase B, Ipl1 inSaccharomyces cerevisiae, is the master regulator of cell division required for checkpoint regulation, spindle assembly and disassembly, chromosome segregation, and cytokinesis. Decades of research employed ensemble averaging methods to understand its dynamics and function; however, the dynamic information was lost due to population-based averaging. Here, we use single-molecule imaging and tracking (SMIT) to quantify the recruitment dynamics of Ipl1 at the kinetochores and spindles in live cells. Our data suggest that Ipl1 is recruited to these locations with different dynamics. We have demonstrated how the recruitment dynamics of Ipl1 at the kinetochores during metaphase changes in the presence and absence of tension across the kinetochore, in the absence of protein phosphatase 1 (Glc7), and the absence of its known recruiters (Ctf19 and Bub1). The SMIT of other chromosome passenger complex members suggests its hierarchical assembly at the kinetochore. Hence, SMIT provides a dynamic view of the Ipl1 trafficking at the kinetochores and spindles.
Enhanced terahertz radiation generated by intense laser interaction with a two-layer thin solid target
Authors: Hua J. Y. , Zhang X. B. , Chen M. , Weng S. M. , Chen Y. P. , Sheng Z. M.
Published: August 2024

A terahertz radiation enhancing scheme, in which a linearly polarized weakly relativistic laser pulse irradiates a target consisting of two parallel thin-solid layers with a certain gap, is proposed and studied by using two-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations. The radiation is known to be produced by laser-produced hot electrons via mechanisms such as coherent transition radiation at the target surfaces. Under optimized conditions, the energy conversion efficiency of terahertz radiation can be as high as 3.3%, which is nearly 1.5 times higher than that obtained with a single-layer target with the same drive laser. This is mainly due to the enhanced hot electron generation with moderate energy via multiple reflections of the laser pulse between the two target layers. The radiation has two peaks close to 30° from the target surface, which are more collimated than that with the single-layer target. The dependence of the terahertz radiation on a variety of target parameters is given, which can control the terahertz spectrum and radiation efficiency and thus provide guidance for experimental investigations. Moreover, both the coherent transition radiation and antenna radiation models are applied to explain the angular distributions of the terahertz emission found in the simulations.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Magnetic instability in the spin susceptibility of chiral carbon-based structures
Authors: Montañes Barbara , Machado Pábel , Medina Ernesto , Bonalde Ismardo
Published: August 2024

Chiral carbon nanostructures have been found to display unexpected magnetic behaviors. Several theoretical calculations performed in the macroscopic limit q=0 have addressed or predicted some of these findings. To gain more insight into the magnetism of these systems at finite q, here we use linear response theory to calculate the wave-vector-dependent spin susceptibility χ(q,0) in a half-filling tight-binding model of a helix of carbon atoms with intrinsic spin-orbit coupling (SOC). We find that at the nesting wave number q=2kF the paramagnetic state of the system is unstable with respect to the formation of a spin-density-wave type state. Chirality has a small effect on the paramagnetic phase but has no impact on the spin-density-wave type state.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Fermi model of a quantum black hole
Authors: Chu Chong-Sun , Miao Rong-Xin
Published: August 2024

We propose a quantum model of the Schwarzschild black hole as a quantum mechanics of a system of fermionic degrees of freedom. The system has a constant density of states and a Fermi energy that is inversely proportional to the size of the system. Assuming the equivalence principle, we show that the degeneracy pressure of the Fermi degrees of freedom is able to withstand the collapse of gravity if the radius of the system is given precisely by the horizon radius of the Schwarzschild black hole. In our model, the fermionic degrees of freedom at each energy level can be entangled in certain different ways, giving rise to a multitude of degenerate ground states of the system. The counting of these microstates reproduces precisely the Bekenstein-Hawking entropy. This simple Fermi model is universal and works also for the Reissner-Nordström charged black hole as well as black holes with a cosmological constant. From the properties of the Fermi variables, we propose that quantum gravity is characterized by a principle of where there can be no more than V/lP3 quantum states in any volume V. It implies a loss of spatial locality below the Planck length and suggests that any singularity predicted by general relativity is resolved and replaced by a quantum space in quantum gravity. In our model, a black hole spacetime is equipped with a uniform distribution of energy levels. This is another reason why black holes can be considered a simple harmonic oscillator of quantum gravity.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Equatorial blowup and polar caps in drop electrohydrodynamics
Authors: Peng Gunnar G. , Brandão Rodolfo , Yariv Ehud , Schnitzer Ory
Published: August 2024

We illuminate effects of surface-charge convection intrinsic to leaky-dielectric electrohydrodynamics by analyzing the symmetric steady state of a circular drop in an external field at arbitrary electric Reynolds number ReE. In formulating the problem, we identify an exact factorization that reduces the number of dimensionless parameters from four—ReE and the conductivity, permittivity and viscosity ratios—to two: a modified electric Reynolds number Rẽ and a charging parameter ϖ. In the case ϖ<0, where charge relaxation in the drop phase is slower than in the suspending phase, and, as a consequence, the interface polarizes antiparallel to the external field, we find that above a critical Rẽ value the solution exhibits a blowup singularity such that the surface-charge density diverges antisymmetrically with the −1/3 power of distance from the equator. We use local analysis to uncover the structure of that blowup singularity, wherein surface charges are convected by a locally induced flow towards the equator where they annihilate. To study the blowup regime, we devise a numerical scheme encoding that local structure where the blowup prefactor is determined by a global charging-annihilation balance. We also employ asymptotic analysis to construct a universal problem governing the blowup solutions in the regime Rẽ≫1, far beyond the blowup threshold. In the case ϖ>0, where charge relaxation is faster in the drop phase and the interface polarizes parallel to the external field, we numerically observe and asymptotically characterize the formation at large Rẽ of stagnant, perfectly conducting surface-charge caps about the drop poles. The cap size grows and the cap voltage decreases monotonically with increasing conductivity or decreasing permittivity of the drop phase relative to the suspending phase. The flow in this scenario is nonlinearly driven by electrical shear stresses at the complement of the caps. In both polarization scenarios, the flow at large Rẽ scales linearly with the magnitude of the external field, contrasting the familiar quadratic scaling under weak fields.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Anomalous Landau Level Gaps Near Magnetic Transitions in Monolayer
WSe2
Authors: Foutty Benjamin A. , Calvera Vladimir , Han Zhaoyu , Kometter Carlos R. , Liu Song , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Hone James C. , Kivelson Steven A. , Feldman Benjamin E.
Published: August 2024

First-order phase transitions produce abrupt changes to the character of both ground and excited electronic states. Here we conduct electronic compressibility measurements to map the spin phase diagram and Landau level (LL) energies of monolayer WSe2 in a magnetic field. We resolve a sequence of first-order phase transitions between completely spin-polarized LLs and states with LLs of both spins. Unexpectedly, the LL gaps are roughly constant over a wide range of magnetic fields below the transitions, which we show reflects spin-polarized ground states with opposite spin excitations. These transitions also extend into compressible regimes, with a sawtooth boundary between full and partial spin polarization. We link these observations to the important influence of LL filling on the exchange energy beyond a smooth density-dependent contribution. Our results show that WSe2 realizes a unique hierarchy of energy scales where such effects induce reentrant magnetic phase transitions tuned by density and magnetic field.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Individually Addressed Quantum Gate Interactions Using Dynamical Decoupling
Authors: Smith M.C. , Leu A.D. , Gely M.F. , Lucas D.M.
Published: August 2024

A leading approach to implementing small-scale quantum computers has been to use laser beams, focused to micron spot sizes, to address and entangle trapped ions in a linear crystal. Here we propose a method to implement individually addressed entangling gate interactions, but driven by microwave fields, with a spatial resolution of a few microns, corresponding to 10−5 microwave wavelengths. We experimentally demonstrate the ability to suppress the effect of the state-dependent force using a single ion, and find the required interaction introduces 3.7(4)×10−4 error per emulated gate in a single-qubit benchmarking sequence. We model the scheme for a 17-qubit ion crystal, and find that any pair of ions should be addressable with an average crosstalk error of approximately 10−5.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Development of a high-performance and cost-effective in-vacuum undulator
Authors: Imamura Kei , Kida Yuichiro , Kagamihata Akihiro , Seike Takamitsu , Yamamoto Shigeru , Ohashi Haruhiko , Tanaka Takashi
Published: August 2024

In-vacuum undulators (IVUs), which have become an essential tool in synchrotron radiation facilities, have two technical challenges toward further advancement: one is a strong attractive force between top and bottom magnetic arrays, and the other is a stringent requirement on magnetic materials to avoid demagnetization. The former imposes a complicated design on mechanical and vacuum structures, while the latter limits the possibility of using high-performance permanent magnets. To solve these issues, a number of technical developments have been made, such as force cancellation and modularization of magnetic arrays, and enhancement of resistance against demagnetization by means of a special magnetic circuit. The performance of a new IVU built upon these technologies has revealed their effectiveness for constructing high-performance IVUs in a cost-effective manner.
Bridging length scales in hard materials with ultra-small angle X-ray scattering – a critical review
Authors: Zhang Fan , Ilavsky Jan
Published: August 2024

Owing to their exceptional properties, hard materials such as advanced ceramics, metals and composites have enormous economic and societal value, with applications across numerous industries. Understanding their microstructural characteristics is crucial for enhancing their performance, materials development and unleashing their potential for future innovative applications. However, their microstructures are unambiguously hierarchical and typically span several length scales, from sub-ångstrom to micrometres, posing demanding challenges for their characterization, especially for in situ characterization which is critical to understanding the kinetic processes controlling microstructure formation. This review provides a comprehensive description of the rapidly developing technique of ultra-small angle X-ray scattering (USAXS), a nondestructive method for probing the nano-to-micrometre scale features of hard materials. USAXS and its complementary techniques, when developed for and applied to hard materials, offer valuable insights into their porosity, grain size, phase composition and inhomogeneities. We discuss the fundamental principles, instrumentation, advantages, challenges and global status of USAXS for hard materials. Using selected examples, we demonstrate the potential of this technique for unveiling the microstructural characteristics of hard materials and its relevance to advanced materials development and manufacturing process optimization. We also provide our perspective on the opportunities and challenges for the continued development of USAXS, including multimodal characterization, coherent scattering, time-resolved studies, machine learning and autonomous experiments. Our goal is to stimulate further implementation and exploration of USAXS techniques and inspire their broader adoption across various domains of hard materials science, thereby driving the field toward discoveries and further developments.
Following the guidelines for communicating commensurate magnetic structures: real case examples
Authors: Damay F.
Published: August 2024

A few real case examples are presented on how to report magnetic structures, with precise step-by-step explanations, following the guidelines of the IUCr Commission on Magnetic Structures [Perez-Mato et al. (2024). Acta Cryst. B80, 219–234]. Four examples have been chosen, illustrating different types of single-k magnetic orders, from the basic case to more complex ones, including odd-harmonics, and one multi-k order. In addition to acquainting researchers with the process of communicating commensurate magnetic structures, these examples also aim to clarify important concepts, which are used throughout the guidelines, such as the transformation to a standard setting of a magnetic space group.
Solvatomorphism in a series of copper(II) complexes with the 5-phenylimidazole/perchlorate system as ligands
Authors: Loukopoulos Edward , Papatriantafyllopoulou Constantina , Moushi Eleni , Kitos Alexandros A. , Tasiopoulos Anastasios J. , Perlepes Spyros P. , Nastopoulos Vassilios
Published: August 2024

In the course of an investigation of the supramolecular behaviour of copper(II) complexes with the 5-phenylimidazole/perchlorate ligand system (`blend') remarkable solvatomorphism has been observed. By employing a variety of crystallization solvents (polar protic, polar/non-polar aprotic), a series of 12 crystalline solvatomorphs with the general formula [Cu(ClO4)2(LH)4]·x(solvent) have been obtained [LH = 5-phenylimidazole, x(solvent) = 3.3(H2O) (1), 2(methanol) (2), 2(ethanol) (3), 2(1-propanol) (4), 2(2-propanol) (5), 2(2-butanol) (6), 2(dimethylformamide) (7), 2(acetone) (8), 2(tetrahydrofurane) (9), 2(1,4-dioxane) (10), 2(ethyl acetate) (11) and 1(diethyl ether) (12)]. The structures have been solved using single-crystal X-ray diffraction and the complexes were characterized by thermal analysis and infrared spectroscopy. The solvatomorphs are isostructural (triclinic, P
1), with the exception of compound 9 (monoclinic, P21/n). The supramolecular structures and the role of the various solvents is discussed. All potential hydrogen-bond functionalities, both of the [Cu(ClO4)2(LH)4] units and of the solvents, are utilized in the course of the crystallization process. The supramolecular assembly in all structures is directed by strong recurring Nimidazole–H...Operchlorate motifs leading to robust scaffolds composed of the [Cu(ClO4)2(LH)4] host complexes. The solvents are located in channels and, with the exception of the disordered waters in 1 and the diethyl ether in 12, participate in hydrogen-bonding formation with the [Cu(ClO4)2(LH)4] complexes, serving as both hydrogen-bond acceptors and donors (for the polar protic solvents in 2–6), or solely as hydrogen-bond acceptors (for the polar/non-polar aprotic solvents in 7–11), linking the complexes and contributing to the stability of the crystalline compounds.
Assessment of altitude effects based on the consumption behavior of a piston-prop engine by entropy approach
Authors: Sogut Mehmet Ziya
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The altitude and weather conditions affect directly fuel consumption and engine efficiency of the aircraft engines. The thermo-physical properties of the weather of altitude play a significant role in this process. Unfortunately, engine performance based on altitude conditions also causes waste heat and environmental pollution due to engine entropy generation. However, environmental impact assessment is needed to improve environmental sustainability. This study aimed to analyse the energy and environmental performance of a piston engine based on altitude conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on the entropy approach, and it aims to assess the environmental impact of the engine. Exergy analysis with together two new indices to evaluate the environmental effects caused by the engine under altitude conditions was used.

Findings

The analysis reveals that the exergy efficiency of the piston engine is 23.9% on average for the three referenced altitudes, while the exergy efficiency difference between altitude boundary conditions is 11%. In addition, the entropy production of the engine is on average 10.55 kW/K. In this case, the environmental pollution potential resulting from the entropy production of the engine is on average 3.29 times higher due to reversible conditions, while the improvement rate was found to be 58%.

Originality/value

This analysis shows that engine efficiency increases as altitude increases. Similarly, it can also be said that the environmental impacts are reduced and the improvement of the engine has opportunities for operational processes. Besides, in the study, some suggestions for motor performance impact analysis were presented.
Global supply chains and the social good perspective: Can blockchain come to the rescue?
Authors: Kouhizadeh Mahtab , Sarkis Joseph
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This viewpoint article provides insights into the potential role of blockchain technology in addressing crucial issues facing society and global supply chains. We seek to bring more attention to blockchain capabilities for social good in global supply chain settings.

Design/methodology/approach

This viewpoint paper provides a perspective on some major current social good and global supply chain issues. The method is based on the current state-of-the-art debate and discourse on blockchain technology as an enabler for social good. Literature, practice and author knowledge concerning the topic are used to support the concepts and actions presented in this study.

Findings

Social good, sustainable supply chains and blockchain technology have great promise and potential. Joint research and practice evaluation are essential to reveal the full potential and applications of blockchain technology and address the trade-offs and challenges. Theory and modeling are needed for understanding and advancing these topical areas.

Originality/value

Blockchain application for social good is a new area. We call for transdisciplinary research and development to advance this emerging area. We propose many open questions, and many more are arising in this blockchain and benchmarking community. The impact of this research can be substantive as we can actually seek to make our world a better place as we focus on social good.
Effects of intergovernmental fiscal transfers on technological innovation in China
Authors: Liu Liangliang , Lv Miaomiao , Zhang Wenqing
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze whether and how intergovernmental fiscal transfers (IFTs) affect technological innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

China’s provincial panel data from 2007 to 2019 are used in an empirical study to examine the effect of IFTs on technological innovation and the role of fiscal spending policy in the relationship between the two by using the spatial Durbin model.

Findings

Results show an evident spatial correlation for the effect of IFTs on technological innovation, indicating that IFTs have a significant negative influence on technological innovation in local and surrounding regions. IFTs also inhibit technological innovation by negatively affecting science and technology spending and education spending.

Research limitations/implications

These findings can aid policymakers in advancing technological innovation by improving the system of fiscal transfers and optimizing the structure of fiscal spending.

Originality/value

Although the determinants of technological innovation have been analyzed, no studies have investigated the effect of IFTs on technological innovation. Thus, this paper aims to address this gap.
Generative AI as a transformative force for innovation: a review of opportunities, applications and challenges
Authors: Sedkaoui Soraya , Benaichouba Rafika
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study examines the existing literature on generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI) and its impact across many sectors. This analysis explores the potential, applications, and challenges of Gen AI in driving innovation and creativity and generating ideas.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts a comprehensive literature review approach, carefully assessing current scientific articles on Gen AI published from 2022 to 2024. The analysis examines trends and insights derived from research.

Findings

The review indicates that Gen AI has significant potential to augment human creativity and innovation processes as a collaborative partner. However, it is imperative to prioritize responsible development and ethical frameworks in order to effectively tackle biases, privacy concerns, and other challenges. Gen AI is significantly transforming business models, processes, and value propositions in several industries, but with varying degrees of effect. Findings indicate also that despite the theory-driven approach to investigating Gen AI's creative and innovative potential, cutting-edge applications research prioritizes examining the possibilities of Gen AI models.

Research limitations/implications

Although this review offers a picture of great possibilities, it concurrently underlines the necessity for a deep knowledge of Gen AI nuances to fully harness its capabilities. The findings indicate that continuous research and exploration efforts are required to address the challenges of Gen AI and assure its responsible and ethical implementation. Therefore, more study is needed on enhancing human-AI collaboration and defining ethical norms for varied circumstances.

Originality/value

This study presents a relevant analysis of Gen AI's transformational potential as an innovation catalyst. It emphasizes major potential, applications across industries, and ethical issues for responsible integration.
Individual accountability of MTurk gig workers: examining the scale dimensionality
Authors: Fanoodi Saeed , Ray Cassaday , Beu Ammeter Danielle , Ammeter Anthony P. , Novicevic Milorad M.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to build upon the accountability pyramid model by presenting two studies that examine the dimensionality of individual accountability among Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk) gig workers.

Design/methodology/approach

For the first study, aimed at investigating the dimensionality of individual accountability of gig workers, the authors collected data from MTurkers by administering two surveys in the English and Mandarin Chinese languages with 185 respondents. The authors implemented principal component analysis and confirmatory factor analysis to analyse the data. For the second study, aimed at establishing validation of the dimensionality found in the first study, the authors collected data from an additional 148 respondents.

Findings

The results indicated that the intensity and salience dimensions merged into one factor that the authors labelled Accountability Significance, while the process and outcome dimensions merged into one factor labelled Accountability Focus. Additionally, the authors found that individual accountability is a second-order construct encompassing Accountability Significance and Accountability Focus as first-order factors. The authors validated the findings in the second study.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research is the first quantitative study investigating the individual accountability of gig workers. The validation of individual accountability in MTurkers offers valuable insights into MTurkers’s Hybrid Accountability Focus and Accountability Significance.
Effect of mullite on the friction stability of carbon fiber-reinforced friction material
Authors: Cai Peng , Zhang Pingjie , Xiao Xiong , Yang Wenneng , Wu Xiaohan , Ni Lingli , Zheng Fei
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of mullite on the mechanical properties and friction of carbon fiber (CF)-reinforced friction material.

Design/methodology/approach

CF-reinforced friction materials with varying content of mullite were fabricated by hot press molding, and then the tribological properties were tested on the MRH-3-type tribometer under ambient conditions with the ring-on-block configuration.

Findings

The experimental results indicated that the addition of mullite increased the density and compressive strength of friction material. However, the flexural strength of friction material decreased by 16% with the addition of 15 Wt.% mullite. The friction coefficient was proportional to the mullite content. Friction material with 12.5 Wt.% mullite showed the highest friction stability under different loads, whereas friction material with 10 Wt.% mullite exhibited the highest friction stability under different sliding speeds.

Originality/value

By boosting the resistance to deformation under load and increasing the specific heat capacity, mullite contributed significantly to the friction stability of the friction material.
School ties between external auditors and audit committee: evidence from the audit fee in Indonesia
Authors: Harymawan Iman , Sani Nurhaliza , Minanurohman Adib , Shafie Rohami
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study examines the relationship between school ties among external auditors and audit committee members, and their joint impact on audit fee. We also examine how the monitoring and executive functions within companies moderate this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs a regression analysis model on a sample of companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange from 2016 to 2019, followed by additional analyses using high-low growth and tech samples, as well as robustness tests involving coarsened exact matching (CEM) and Heckman’s (1979) theory to address potential causality issues.

Findings

This study reveals that school ties between external auditors and audit committees positively influence audit fee. The audit committee size weakens this relationship, while the presence of an internal audit enhances it.

Research limitations/implications

This research contributes to the literature related to the relationship between school ties and audit fee in Indonesian public companies, providing insights for stakeholders and informing company policies. It aims to increase awareness of the significance of school ties among Indonesian companies.

Originality/value

This research fills a knowledge gap by examining the link between audit committee-external auditor relationships and audit fees, aiming to generate new insights and empirical evidence to inform future research and regulatory decisions.
A bibliometric analysis of ESG in Islamic banks: mapping current trends and projecting future research direction
Authors: Tumewang Yunice Karina , Yunita Danis Nurul , Hassan M. Kabir
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the current trends in the literature about environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices within Islamic banking. It also seeks to identify research gaps and propose directions for future inquiry.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a bibliometric analysis, this study synthesises 753 articles from the Scopus database from 1988 to 2023. The analysis was conducted using the biblioshiny package in RStudio and VOSviewer.

Findings

It reveals an increasing trajectory in the volume of literature on ESG within Islamic banking, with Muslim-majority countries supported by robust regulatory frameworks leading the discourse. Emerging interest from Muslim-minority countries is also noted. This research delineates five principal research streams and proposes future investigative pathways, including the influence of institutional factors on Islamic banks’ ESG practices.

Practical implications

This study offers valuable insights for Islamic bank management and stakeholders, enhancing their comprehension of ESG practices’ current landscape. Additionally, it directs emerging scholars towards novel and pertinent research opportunities within this domain.

Originality/value

Amidst a growing body of work on ESG and Islamic banking, this study is, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, the first bibliometric review dedicated solely to ESG considerations in Islamic banks. It augments the extant literature by adopting a more stringent methodological approach and a rigid quality assessment.
The troubled establishment of the Tourist Hotel Corporation of New Zealand
Authors: Cardow Andrew
Published: August 2024

Purpose

By 1901, New Zealand had the first national government-controlled department of tourism in the world. This was the vehicle used to acquire and control tourism assets. In 1954, the hotel assets were consolidated as the Tourist Hotel Corporation of New Zealand (THC). Whilst hotel consolidation was not unique in the world, comparatively little has been written about the establishment of the THC. The following contributes to this ongoing history.

Design/methodology/approach

The research used relevant archival records held within the Archives New Zealand. Altogether 195 files were accessed. Information was analyzed and sorted into themes. The following involves one of those themes, conflict.

Findings

The establishment of the THC was the result of corporatist ideology based around the need to preserve the importance of tourism to New Zealand. The legislative requirements relating to the management and governance of the THC led to conflict between the THC CEO and the government. Such conflict has been placed within an institutional context. This conflict may have “got in the way” of effective running of the THC.

Research limitations/implications

There is a large volume of data still to be analyzed. Subsequent work on the later years, and demise of the THC could add further context to the overall history of the THC. The extent to which institutionalism was at the root of conflict between the management of the THC and the controlling government department are explored.

Originality/value

Very little has been written about the establishment of the THC. The following contributes to the discussion on the establishment and problems that emerged in the early management of the THC.
A feasibility evaluation of a peer support intervention for social participation in China
Authors: Chen Xiyuan , Qin Sang , Sheehan Lindsay , Ma Zhiying , Spicknall Virginia , Fan Yu
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to report on the feasibility, acceptability and outcomes of a peer support program designed to promote social participation for adults with serious mental illness (SMI) in China.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used a community-based participatory research approach to adapt and test a six-month, culturally responsive peer program with 68 participants. Peer supporters were trained and supervised in Guangzhou, China. Peer workers were hired via a competitive process and completed both classroom and field training. Study participants were offered individual and group socialization activities. Participants completed measures on recovery, quality of life, functioning and symptoms at three time points (pre-, post- and follow-up).

Findings

Nearly 90% of participants expressed satisfaction with their peer supporters and the frequency of services. Findings showed a significant increasing trend for the social relationships domain of quality of life from baseline to follow-up. Female participants reported significantly increased recovery from pre to post and increased psychological quality of life pre-follow-up as compared to their male counterparts. Supervision logs documented positive gains from participants such as increased help-seeking, improved social skills, enhanced emotion regulation and self-confidence and established routine, alongside challenges like inconsistent engagement, low service incentives and an overreliance on social workers. Peer supporters also reported concerns about their own lack of skills and in navigating relationships between participants and their family members.

Originality/value

Peer interventions have been well studied in Western countries but underexplored in China. This research addresses this gap by presenting a peer program aimed at enhancing the social participation of Chinese with SMI.
Microbial communities reveal niche partitioning across the slope and bottom zones of the challenger deep
Authors: Hu Aoran , Zhao Weishu , Wang Jing , Qi Qi , Xiao Xiang , Jing Hongmei
Published: August 2024

Widespread marine microbiomes exhibit compositional and functional differentiation as a result of adaptation driven by environmental characteristics. We investigated the microbial communities in both seawater and sediments on the slope (7–9 km) and the bottom (9–11 km) of the Challenger Deep of the Mariana Trench to explore community differentiation. Both metagenome‐assembled genomes (MAGs) and 16S rRNA amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) showed that the microbial composition in the seawater was similar to that of sediment on the slope, while distinct from that of sediment in the bottom. This scenario suggested a potentially stronger community interaction between seawater and sediment on the slope, which was further confirmed by community assembly and population movement analyses. The metagenomic analysis also indicates a specific stronger potential of nitrate reduction and sulphate assimilation in the bottom seawater, while more versatile nitrogen and sulphur cycling pathways occur on the slope, reflecting functional differentiations among communities in conjunction with environmental features. This work implies that microbial community differentiation occurred in the different hadal niches, and was likely an outcome of microbial adaptation to the extreme hadal trench environment, especially the associated hydrological and geological conditions, which should be considered and measured in situ in future studies.
Retrospective review of surgeon administered transversus abdominis plane blocks at emergency caesarean
Authors: Einarsson Rachel , Knowles Joshua
Published: August 2024

Background

Effective analgesics with minimal side effects are imperative for patient and neonate wellbeing postpartum. Post‐caesarean section ultrasound‐guided transversus abdominis plane (TAP) blocks have proven safety and efficacy. Surgical TAP blocks appear effective and require little time and equipment. No previous examination of surgical TAP blocks in patients having undergone emergency caesarean section has been undertaken.

Aims

To investigate surgical TAP block and multimodal analgesic use during emergency caesarean section, the effect on surgical time, post‐operative analgesia use, and admission length.

Materials and Methods

We performed a retrospective review of 250 patients who underwent emergency caesarean in 2022. Surgical TAP blocks were performed with 20 mL of 0.375% ropivacaine either side. Primary outcomes included surgical time, length of admission, time to first request of rescue opiate, opiate use in first post‐operative 24 h, total dose used during admission, and opiates prescribed on discharge.

Results

Ninety‐six patients received surgical TAP blocks, and 154 did not. There were no statistically significant differences in the primary outcomes. Subgroup analyses were performed in patients who did not receive intrathecal morphine, body mass index over 30 kg/m2, for patients whom this was their first caesarean, and for TAP blocks versus local infiltration to the wound. There were no significant differences in the primary outcomes in these subgroups.

Conclusions

Surgical TAP blocks did not prolong surgical time or decrease post‐operative analgesia use or admission length in patients having undergone emergency caesarean. Patient‐tailored multimodal analgesia is encouraged, although more research is needed.
Rural unpaid caregivers' experiences in northern Aotearoa, New Zealand during the Covid‐19 pandemic: A qualitative study
Authors: Frey Rosemary , Wiles Janine , Balmer Deborah , Meha Pare , Parsons John , Simpson Mary , Burholt Vanessa
Published: August 2024

Objective

Rural unpaid caregivers experience different opportunities and challenges than their urban counterparts. Our aim was to understand rural unpaid caregivers' experiences of challenges and opportunities during the Covid‐19 pandemic in New Zealand.

Setting

Rural northern New Zealand during the Covid‐19 pandemic.

Participants

A convenience sample of 10 unpaid rural caregivers, most supporting an older person living with dementia.

Design

A qualitative descriptive design. Data included interviews and online workshops, and a thematic analysis.

Results

Rural unpaid caregivers observed that some aspects of living in a rural context were helpful during the Covid‐19 pandemic. However, tasks such as shopping and long‐distance travel and communication (both telephonic and digital) became more complex. Abrupt changes to routine and closure of resources and support groups created challenges. Unpaid caregivers worried about what would happen if they were hospitalised themselves. There was a diversity of experience both across caregivers, of familiar routines and rural context as resources, increased challenges requiring resourcefulness to adapt, and experiences of crisis. Many experienced all three states at different times.

Conclusion

This research provides valuable insights into challenges and opportunities experienced by rural unpaid caregivers during the Covid‐19 pandemic and may help policy‐makers and healthcare professionals develop improved emergency preparedness. Multilevel, multisector responses are needed to ensure effective health and social support and access to resources including health care, access to groceries and medication, transport, and communications (telephone and digital). Enhancing rural access to effective and inexpensive online services is particularly important, as is recognition of the value of rural sites or hubs of connection and social interaction.
Effects of experimental, network‐based social circle norm feedback on studying behavior and alcohol consumption
Authors: Giese Helge , Wegwarth Odette , Gaissmaier Wolfgang
Published: August 2024

Misrepresentation of peer behavior has often been observed in college students and may lead to over‐expression of alcohol consumption and under‐expression of studying. While social norm feedback approaches have had mixed success in addressing these misrepresentations and altering behavior, they may have been too unspecific to be effective and did not directly assess individual perception accuracy. We thus investigated how specific, one‐time feedback on the behavioral distribution of alcohol consumption or study time of a clearly defined, individually‐adjusted social circle would affect the respective norm estimations and behavior of a class of Psychology students (n = 89 in January) across their first year of study. Students overestimated alcohol consumption and partially underestimated studying norms. While social circle feedback on alcohol consumption did not clearly affect both individual estimation accuracy and alcohol consumption, feedback on peers' studying time increased studying with no clear effect on estimation accuracy. This indicates that social circle norm feedback may be suitable to evoke behavioral effects. The correction of the detected inaccuracies did not appear to be a precondition for the feedback to be effective.