bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Promoting Lung Cancer Screen Decision-Making and Early Detection Behaviors
Authors: Lin Xiujing , Lei Fang , Lin Jialing , Li Yonglin , Chen Qiuhong , Arbing Rachel , Chen Wei-Ti , Huang Feifei
Published: March 2024

Background

Promoting lung cancer screening (LCS) is complex. Previous studies have overlooked that LCS behaviors are stage based and thus did not identify the characteristics of LCS interventions at different screening stages.

Objective

The aims of this study were to explore the characteristics and efficacy of interventions in promoting LCS decision making and behaviors and to evaluate these interventions.

Methods

We conducted a study search from the inception of each bibliographic database to April 8, 2023. The precaution adoption process model was used to synthesize and classify the evidence. The RE-AIM framework was used to evaluate the effectiveness of LCS programs. Heterogeneity tests and meta-analysis were performed using RevMan 5.4 software.

Results

We included 31 studies that covered 4 LCS topics: knowledge of lung cancer, knowledge of LCS, value clarification exercises, and LCS supportive resources. Patient decision aids outperformed educational materials in improving knowledge and decision outcomes with a significant reduction in decision conflict (standardized mean difference, 0.81; 95% confidence interval, −1.15 to −0.47; P < .001). Completion rates of LCS ranged from 3.6% to 98.8%. Interventions that included screening resources outperformed interventions that used patient decision aids alone in improving LCS completion. The proportions of reported RE-AIM indicators were highest for reach (69.59%), followed by adoption (43.87%), effectiveness (36.13%), implementation (33.33%), and maintenance (9.68%).

Conclusion

Evidence from 31 studies identified intervention characteristics and effectiveness of LCS interventions based on different stages of decision making.

Implications for Practice

It is crucial to develop targeted and systematic interventions based on the characteristics of each stage of LCS to maximize intervention effectiveness and reduce the burden of lung cancer.
Prevalence, Predictors, and the Role of Social Support in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Among Cancer Patients in Oman
Authors: Al Amri Hisham , Al Qadire Mohammad , Abdelrahman Hanan , Al Omari Omar , Damra Jalal , Aljezawi Ma’en
Published: March 2024

Background

Cancer, regardless of type, presents a formidable life challenge affecting patients’ psychological well-being. Many perceive cancer diagnosis and treatment as traumatic.

Objectives

This study aimed to estimate posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) prevalence in Omani adult cancer patients, identify predictors, and probe its correlation with social support.

Methods

This cross-sectional study enrolled 343 adult cancer patients undergoing treatment from 3 hospitals in the Middle East country of Oman. Posttraumatic stress disorder was assessed via the PTSD Checklist for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, and perceived social support was measured using the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support.

Results

The prevalence of PTSD among Omani adult cancer patients was 27.4%. Enhanced social support correlated with lower PTSD risk (odds ratio [OR], 0.95; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.93-0.97; P < .001). Predictors included shorter time since diagnosis (OR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.97-0.99; P = .017), no psychiatric referral (OR, 0.46; 95% CI, 0.23-0.96; P = .04), and insufficient social support (OR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.94-0.98; P < .001).

Conclusions

Social support significantly mitigates PTSD risk. Routine assessment and psychiatric referrals, especially for recent diagnoses, can enhance patients’ lives. Reevaluating the PTSD diagnostic cutoff score (33) merits consideration for improved clinical use.

Implications for Practice

Early PTSD assessment, particularly for low–social support new-diagnosed patients, is crucial for timely intervention. Psychiatric referrals can guide specialized treatments. Stressing social support’s role can guide healthcare providers, including oncology nurses, in supporting patients effectively.
Correlation Between miR-497-5p Expression With Clinicopathological Characteristics and Prognosis in Patients With Breast Cancer
Authors: Zhang Zhiying , Zhou Ying , Liang Shujing
Published: March 2024

Breast cancer (BC) comprises multiple biological and histologic properties. MicroRNAs show key functions in cancer prognosis. This paper explored the relationship between miR-497-5p with clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis in BC. Cancer tissues and normal adjacent tissues (NATs) were collected from 140 included patients with BC. The clinical baseline data, including age, tumor size, pathologic grade, clinical stage, modified Scraff-Bloom-Richardson grade, and lymph node metastasis, were recorded. miR-497-5p expression in cancer tissues and NAT was determined by reverse transcription–quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Patients with BC were followed up for 5 years to record their survival. Patients were divided into the miR-497-5p low expression and high expression groups to assess the correlation between miR-497-5p expression with clinicopathological characteristics and overall survival of patients. The role of miR-497-5p as an independent risk factor for death was further analyzed by a multivariate Cox regression model. miR-497-5p was downregulated in BC tissues than NAT. Tumor size, clinical stage, and lymph node metastasis showed significant differences among patients with high and low miR-497-5p expression levels. Patients with BC with low miR-497-5p expression presented decreased survival. Lowly-expressed miR-497-5p was an independent risk factor for death in patients. Collectively, cancer tissue miR-497-5p low expression increases the risk of death and serves as an independent risk factor for death in patients with BC.
Drinking Large Volume of Hot Water May Cause Increased 18F-FDG Uptake in Esophagus
Authors: Guo Ziyu , Dong Ziqian , Chen Feilong , Wei Lingge , Xie Peng
Published: March 2024

We present 2 cases of diffuse FDG accumulation in the esophagus due to drinking hot water before an 18F-FDG PET/CT scan. Drinking large volume of hot water immediately before the FDG PET/CT study may lead to challenges in the interpretation of the hypermetabolic esophagus.
3D Analysis of the Cranial and Facial Shape in Craniosynostosis Patients: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kurniawan Melissa S.I.C. , Tio Pauline A.E. , Abdel Alim Tareq , Roshchupkin Gennady , Dirven Clemens M.F. , Pleumeekers Mieke M. , Mathijssen Irene M.J. , van Veelen Marie-Lise C.
Published: March 2024

With increasing interest in 3D photogrammetry, diverse methods have been developed for craniofacial shape analysis in craniosynostosis patients. This review provides an overview of these methods and offers recommendations for future studies. A systematic literature search was used to identify publications on 3D photogrammetry analyses in craniosynostosis patients until August 2023. Inclusion criteria were original research reporting on 3D photogrammetry analyses in patients with craniosynostosis and written in English. Sixty-three publications that had reproducible methods for measuring cranial, forehead, or facial shape were included in the systematic review. Cranial shape changes were commonly assessed using heat maps and curvature analyses. Publications assessing the forehead utilized volumetric measurements, angles, ratios, and mirroring techniques. Mirroring techniques were frequently used to determine facial asymmetry. Although 3D photogrammetry shows promise, methods vary widely between standardized and less conventional measurements. A standardized protocol for the selection and documentation of landmarks, planes, and measurements across the cranium, forehead, and face is essential for consistent clinical and research applications.
Understanding the factors regulating host–microbiome interactions using
Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Singh Anupama , Luallen Robert J.
Published: March 2024

The Human Microbiome Project was a research programme that successfully identified associations between microbial species and healthy or diseased individuals. However, a major challenge identified was the absence of model systems for studying host–microbiome interactions, which would increase our capacity to uncover molecular interactions, understand organ-specificity and discover new microbiome-altering health interventions.
Caenorhabditis elegans
has been a pioneering model organism for over 70 years but was largely studied in the absence of a microbiome. Recently, ecological sampling of wild nematodes has uncovered a large amount of natural genetic diversity as well as a slew of associated microbiota. The field has now explored the interactions of
C. elegans
with its associated gut microbiome, a defined and non-random microbial community, highlighting its suitability for dissecting host–microbiome interactions. This core microbiome is being used to study the impact of host genetics, age and stressors on microbiome composition. Furthermore, single microbiome species are being used to dissect molecular interactions between microbes and the animal gut. Being amenable to health altering genetic and non-genetic interventions,
C. elegans
has emerged as a promising system to generate and test new hypotheses regarding host–microbiome interactions, with the potential to uncover novel paradigms relevant to other systems.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Sculpting the microbiome: how host factors determine and respond to microbial colonization’.
When the microbiome shapes the host: immune evolution implications for infectious disease
Authors: Hanson Mark A.
Published: March 2024

The microbiome includes both ‘mutualist’ and ‘pathogen’ microbes, regulated by the same innate immune architecture. A major question has therefore been: how do hosts prevent pathogenic infections while maintaining beneficial microbes? One idea suggests hosts can selectively activate innate immunity upon pathogenic infection, but not mutualist colonization. Another idea posits that hosts can selectively attack pathogens, but not mutualists. Here I review evolutionary principles of microbe recognition and immune activation, and reflect on newly observed immune effector–microbe specificity perhaps supporting the latter idea. Recent work in
Drosophila
has found a surprising importance for single antimicrobial peptides in combatting specific ecologically relevant microbes. The developing picture suggests these effectors have evolved for this purpose. Other defence responses like reactive oxygen species bursts can also be uniquely effective against specific microbes. Signals in other model systems including nematodes,
Hydra
, oysters, and mammals, suggest that effector–microbe specificity may be a fundamental principle of host–pathogen interactions. I propose this effector–microbe specificity stems from weaknesses of the microbes themselves: if microbes have intrinsic weaknesses, hosts can evolve effectors that exploit those weaknesses. I define this host–microbe relationship as ‘the Achilles principle of immune evolution’. Incorporating this view helps interpret why some host–microbe interactions develop in a coevolutionary framework (e.g. Red Queen dynamics), or as a one-sided evolutionary response. This clarification should be valuable to better understand the principles behind host susceptibilities to infectious diseases.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Sculpting the microbiome: how host factors determine and respond to microbial colonization’.
The role of animal hosts in shaping gut microbiome variation
Authors: Maritan Elisa , Quagliariello Andrea , Frago Enric , Patarnello Tomaso , Martino Maria Elena
Published: March 2024

Millions of years of co-evolution between animals and their associated microbial communities have shaped and diversified the nature of their relationship. Studies continue to reveal new layers of complexity in host–microbe interactions, the fate of which depends on a variety of different factors, ranging from neutral processes and environmental factors to local dynamics. Research is increasingly integrating ecosystem-based approaches, metagenomics and mathematical modelling to disentangle the individual contribution of ecological factors to microbiome evolution. Within this framework, host factors are known to be among the dominant drivers of microbiome composition in different animal species. However, the extent to which they shape microbiome assembly and evolution remains unclear. In this review, we summarize our understanding of how host factors drive microbial communities and how these dynamics are conserved and vary across taxa. We conclude by outlining key avenues for research and highlight the need for implementation of and key modifications to existing theory to fully capture the dynamics of host-associated microbiomes.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Sculpting the microbiome: how host factors determine and respond to microbial colonization’.
Tethering of soluble immune effectors to mucin and chitin reflects a convergent and dynamic role in gut immunity
Authors: Dishaw L. J. , Litman G. W. , Liberti A.
Published: March 2024

The immune system employs soluble effectors to shape luminal spaces. Antibodies are soluble molecules that effect immunological responses, including neutralization, opsonization, antibody-dependent cytotoxicity and complement activation. These molecules are comprised of immunoglobulin (Ig) domains. The N-terminal Ig domains recognize antigen, and the C-terminal domains facilitate their elimination through phagocytosis (opsonization). A less-recognized function mediated by the C-terminal Ig domains of the IgG class of antibodies (Fc region) involves the formation of multiple low-affinity bonds with the mucus matrix. This association anchors the antibody molecule to the matrix to entrap potential pathogens. Even though invertebrates are not known to have antibodies, protochordates have a class of secreted molecules containing Ig domains that can bind bacteria and potentially serve a similar purpose. The VCBPs (V region-containing chitin-binding proteins) possess a C-terminal chitin-binding domain that helps tether them to chitin-rich mucus gels, mimicking the IgG-mediated Fc trapping of microbes in mucus. The broad functional similarity of these structurally divergent, Ig-containing, secreted effectors makes a case for a unique form of convergent evolution within chordates. This opinion essay highlights emerging evidence that divergent secreted immune effectors with Ig-like domains evolved to manage immune recognition at mucosal surfaces in strikingly similar ways.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Sculpting the microbiome: how host factors determine and respond to microbial colonization’.
Photosynthesis and other factors affecting the establishment and maintenance of cnidarian–dinoflagellate symbiosis
Authors: Tran Cawa , Rosenfield Gabriel R. , Cleves Phillip A. , Krediet Cory J. , Paul Maitri R. , Clowez Sophie , Grossman Arthur R. , Pringle John R.
Published: March 2024

Coral growth depends on the partnership between the animal hosts and their intracellular, photosynthetic dinoflagellate symbionts. In this study, we used the sea anemone
Aiptasia
, a laboratory model for coral biology, to investigate the poorly understood mechanisms that mediate symbiosis establishment and maintenance. We found that initial colonization of both adult polyps and larvae by a compatible algal strain was more effective when the algae were able to photosynthesize and that the long-term maintenance of the symbiosis also depended on photosynthesis. In the dark, algal cells were taken up into host gastrodermal cells and not rapidly expelled, but they seemed unable to reproduce and thus were gradually lost. When we used confocal microscopy to examine the interaction of larvae with two algal strains that cannot establish stable symbioses with
Aiptasia
, it appeared that both pre- and post-phagocytosis mechanisms were involved. With one strain, algae entered the gastric cavity but appeared to be completely excluded from the gastrodermal cells. With the other strain, small numbers of algae entered the gastrodermal cells but appeared unable to proliferate there and were slowly lost upon further incubation. We also asked if the exclusion of either incompatible strain could result simply from their cells' being too large for the host cells to accommodate. However, the size distributions of the compatible and incompatible strains overlapped extensively. Moreover, examination of macerates confirmed earlier reports that individual gastrodermal cells could expand to accommodate multiple algal cells.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Sculpting the microbiome: how host factors determine and respond to microbial colonization’.
Causality or confounding? Applying E values to examine associations between ultra-processed food consumption and weight gain
Authors: Robinson Eric , Jones Andrew
Published: March 2024

Background

Ultra-processed food (UPF) consumption is associated prospectively with weight gain and obesity in observational studies of adults. Unaccounted for confounding is a risk when attempting to make causal inference from observational studies. Limited research has examined how feasible it is that unmeasured confounding may explain associations between UPF consumption and weight gain in observational research

Methods

We introduce the E value to obesity researchers. The E value is defined as the minimum strength of association that one or more unaccounted for confounding variables would need to have with an exposure (UPF consumption) and outcome (e.g., weight gain) to explain the association between the exposure and outcome of interest. We meta-analysed prospective studies on the association between UPF consumption and weight gain in adults. Next, we applied the E value approach and illustrated the potential role that unmeasured or hypothetical residual confounding variables could have in explaining associations.

Results

Higher consumption of UPFs was associated with increased weight gain in meta-analysis (RR=1.14). The corresponding E value = 1.55, indicating that unaccounted for confounding variables with small-to-moderate sized associations with UPF consumption and weight gain (e.g., depressive symptoms, trait overeating tendencies, access to healthy and nutritious food) could individually or collectively account for observed associations between UPF consumption and weight gain.

Conclusions

Unaccounted for confounding could plausibly explain the prospective association between UPF consumption and weight gain in adults. High quality observational research controlling for potential confounders and evidence from study types devoid of confounding are now needed.
Chronically low NMNAT2 expression causes sub-lethal SARM1 activation and altered response to nicotinamide riboside in axons
Authors: Antoniou Christina , Loreto Andrea , Gilley Jonathan , Merlini Elisa , Orsomando Giuseppe , Coleman Michael P
Published: March 2024

Nicotinamide mononucleotide adenylyltransferase 2 (NMNAT2) is an endogenous axon survival factor that maintains axon health by blocking activation of the downstream pro-degenerative protein SARM1 (sterile alpha and TIR motif containing protein 1). While complete absence of NMNAT2 in mice results in extensive axon truncation and perinatal lethality, the removal of SARM1 completely rescues these phenotypes. Reduced levels of NMNAT2 can be compatible with life, however they compromise axon development and survival. Mice born expressing sub-heterozygous levels of NMNAT2 remain overtly normal into old age but develop axonal defectsin vivoandin vitroas well as behavioural phenotypes. Therefore, it is important to examine the effects of constitutively low NMNAT2 expression on SARM1 activation and disease susceptibility. Here we demonstrate that chronically low NMNAT2 levels reduce prenatal viability in mice in a SARM1-dependent manner and lead to sub-lethal SARM1 activation in morphologically intact axons of superior cervical ganglion (SCG) primary cultures. This is characterised by a depletion in NAD(P) and compromised neurite outgrowth. We also show that chronically low NMNAT2 expression reverses the NAD-enhancing effect of nicotinamide riboside (NR) in axons in a SARM1-dependent manner. These data indicate that low NMNAT2 levels can trigger sub-lethal SARM1 activation which is detectable at the molecular level and could predispose to human axonal disorders.
Tobacco Smoke Exposure is Characterized by a Distinct Nasal Rhinotype in a Pediatric Population
Authors: Monaco Hilary , Elaiho Cordelia R , Liu Bian , Chan Tiffany , Cantor Adam , Collaco Joseph Michael , McGrath-Morrow Sharon A , Wilson Karen M , Clemente Jose C
Published: March 2024

Background

Secondhand tobacco smoke exposure (TSE) increases susceptibility to respiratory diseases, but the mechanisms of action are poorly understood.

Objective

To study the effect of TSE in the nasal microbiome of children, and to evaluate whether such effect is dose-dependent with measured levels of cotinine in saliva and urine.

Methods

The study was performed at the Mount Sinai Kravis Children’s Hospital (New York, NY) and the Johns Hopkins Hospital (Baltimore, MD). We enrolled 236 children between 6 months and 10 years of age, both inpatients and outpatients. We collected swabs to characterize the diversity and composition of the nasal microbiome using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and measured cotinine levels in salivary and urinary samples to quantify TSE. We then determined the relationship between these measures and participant respiratory conditions, demographics and lifestyle factors.

Results

Infants with high cotinine levels had lower nasal microbiome alpha diversity and an enrichment in Moraxella, Dolosigranulum and Corynebacterium, which formed a distinct cluster in network analysis. A Dirichlet Multinomial Mixture model identified the existence of two distinct microbial rhinotypes, the first one characterized by significantly higher cotinine levels, lower alpha diversity, and enrichment of these taxa.

Conclusion

Children with higher cotinine levels had reduced alpha diversity and a distinct nasal rhinotype. Our results suggest TSE is associated with alterations of the nasal microbiome and identify a rhinotype as a potential biomarker for TSE.
Translation of monosynaptic circuits underlying amygdala fMRI neurofeedback training
Authors: Trambaiolli Lucas , Maffei Chiara , Dann Evan , Biazoli Claudinei , Bezgin Gleb , Yendiki Anastasia , Haber Suzanne
Published: March 2024

Background

fMRI neurofeedback targeting the amygdala is a promising therapeutical tool in psychiatry. It induces resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) changes between the amygdala and regions of the salience and default mode networks (SN and DMN, respectively). We hypothesize these rsFC changes happen on the amygdala’s underlying anatomical circuits.

Methods

We used the coordinates from regions of interest (ROIs) from studies showing pre-to-post-neurofeedback changes in rsFC with the left amygdala. Using a cross-species brain parcellation, we identified the homologous locations in non-human primates. We injected bidirectional tracers in the amygdala of adult macaques and used bright- and dark-field microscopy to identify cells and axon terminals in each ROI. We also performed additional injections in specific ROIs to validate the results following amygdala injections and delineate potential disynaptic pathways. Finally, we used high-resolution diffusion MRI data from fourpost-mortemmacaque brains and onein vivohuman brain to translate our findings to the neuroimaging domain.

Results

The amygdala had significant monosynaptic connections with all the SN and DMN ipsilateral ROIs. Amygdala connections with the DMN contralateral ROIs are disynaptic through the hippocampus and parahippocampal gyrus. Diffusion MRI in both species benefitted from using the ground-truth tracer data to validate its findings, as we identified false-negative ipsilateral and false-positive contralateral connectivity results.

Conclusions

Amygdala neurofeedback modulates the SN and DMN through monosynaptic connections and disynaptic pathways - including hippocampal structures involved in the neurofeedback task. Neurofeedback may be a tool for rapid modulation and reinforcement of these anatomical connections, leading to clinical improvement.
Dissecting the binding mechanisms of synaptic membrane adhesion complexes using a micropattern based cellular model
Authors: Piette Nathalie , Strale Pierre-Olivier , Lagardère Matthieu , Saphy Camille , Reissner Carsten , Munier Matthieu , Missler Markus , Chamma Ingrid , Sainlos Matthieu , Thoumine Olivier , Studer Vincent
Published: March 2024

The formation of adhesive cell-cell contacts is based on the intrinsic binding properties between specific transmembrane ligand-receptor pairs. In neurons, synaptic adhesion molecules provide a physical linkage between pre- and post-synaptic compartments, but the strength and the dynamic of these complexes in their actual membrane environments remain essentially unknown. To access such information, we developed a versatile assay to measure the affinity and binding kinetics of synaptic ligand-receptor interactions, based on the immobilization of Fc-tagged ligands on micropatterned substrates combined with live imaging of fluorescently-tagged counter receptors in heterologous cells. We applied this strategy to study the heterophilic complex formed between neurexin-1β (Nrx1β) and neuroligin-1 (Nlg1), compared to the homophilic SynCAM1 complex. First, the control of ligand density combined to the measurement of steady-state receptor enrichment at micropatterns demonstrates the high specificity of the matching molecular interactions and allows for the quantification of the two-dimensional affinity of the interaction in a membrane environment. Second, long-term FRAP experiments performed on the two molecular complexes and fitted with analytical models, demonstrate a diffusion-limited regime for SynCAM1 and a reaction-limited regime for Nlg1. This analysis provides a very long bond lifetime of the Nrx1β-Nlg1 complex, which by comparison with a monomeric mutant of Nlg1, can be attributed to the constitutive dimerization of Nlg1. Finally, we used the stable Nrx1β-Nlg1 complex as a pseudo-synaptic platform to analyze the rapid binding kinetics between the scaffolding protein PSD-95 and the intracellular domain of Nlg1, dissecting the contribution of the different PDZ domains through the use of specific PSD-95 point mutants.
Reconstructing lattice QCD spectral functions with stochastic pole expansion and Nevanlinna analytic continuation
Authors: Huang Li , Liang Shuang
Published: March 2024

The reconstruction of spectral functions from Euclidean correlation functions is a well-known, yet ill-conditioned inverse problem in the fields of many-body and high-energy physics. In this paper, we present a comprehensive investigation of two recently developed analytic continuation methods, namely stochastic pole expansion and Nevanlinna analytic continuation, for extracting spectral functions from mock lattice QCD data. We examine a range of Euclidean correlation functions generated by representative models, including the Breit-Wigner model, the Gaussian mixture model, the resonance-continuum model, and the bottomonium model. Then, we apply the two methods to reconstruct spectral functions from charmonium correlation functions computed using lattice QCD simulations at a finite temperature. Our findings demonstrate that the stochastic pole expansion method, when combined with the constrained sampling algorithm and the self-adaptive sampling algorithm, successfully recovers the essential features of the spectral functions and exhibits excellent resilience to noise of input data. In contrast, the Nevanlinna analytic continuation method suffers from numerical instability, often resulting in the emergence of spurious peaks and significant oscillations in the high-energy regions of the spectral functions, even with the application of the Hardy basis function optimization algorithm.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Survey of neutrino flavor predictions and the neutrinoless double beta decay funnel
Authors: Denton Peter B. , Gehrlein Julia
Published: March 2024

The neutrinoless double beta decay experimental effort continues to make tremendous progress with hopes of covering the inverted neutrino mass hierarchy in coming years and pushing from the quasidegenerate hierarchy into the normal hierarchy. As neutrino oscillation data are starting to suggest that the mass ordering may be normal, we may well be faced with staring down the funnel of death: a region of parameter space in the normal ordering where—for a particular cancellation among the absolute neutrino mass scale, the Majorana phases, and the oscillation parameters—the neutrinoless double beta decay rate may be vanishingly small. To answer the question of whether this region of parameter space is theoretically preferred, we survey five broad categories of flavor model structures which make various different predictions for parameters relevant for neutrinoless double beta decay to determine how likely it is that the rate may be in this funnel region. We find that a non-negligible fraction of predictions surveyed are at least partially in the funnel region. Our results can guide model builders and experimentalists alike in focusing their efforts on theoretically motivated regions of parameter space.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Absorption and unbounded superradiance in a static regular black hole spacetime
Authors: de Paula Marco A. A. , Leite Luiz C. S. , Dolan Sam R. , Crispino Luís C. B.
Published: March 2024

Regular black holes (RBHs)—geometries free from curvature singularities—arise naturally in theories of nonlinear electrodynamics. Here we study the absorption and superradiant amplification of a monochromatic planar wave in a charged, massive scalar field impinging on the electrically charged Ayón-Beato-García (ABG) RBH. Comparisons are drawn with absorption and superradiance for the Reissner-Nordström (RN) black hole in linear electrodynamics. We find that, in a certain parameter regime, the ABG absorption cross section is negative, due to superradiance, and moreover it is unbounded from below as the momentum of the wave approaches zero; this phenomenon of “unbounded superradiance” is absent in the RN case. We show how the parameter space can be divided into regions, using the bounded/unbounded and absorption/amplification boundaries. After introducing a high-frequency approximation based on particle trajectories, we calculate the absorption cross section numerically, via the partial-wave expansion, as a function of wave frequency, and we present a gallery of results. The cross section of the ABG RBH is found to be larger (smaller) than in the RN case when the field charge has the same (opposite) sign as the black hole charge. We show that it is possible to find “mimics”: situations in which the cross sections of both black holes are very similar. We conclude with a discussion of unbounded superradiance and superradiant instabilities.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Connecting flux vacua through scalar field excursions
Authors: Shiu Gary , Tonioni Flavio , Van Hemelryck Vincent , Van Riet Thomas
Published: March 2024

We show how flux vacua that differ from each other in flux quanta can be seen as different vacua in a single scalar potential of an enlarged field space, which resolves the separation by thin domain walls. This observation, which is motivated by the anti–de Sitter distance conjecture, allows one to compute distances between different vacua using the usual field-space metric. We verify for explicit examples such as scale-separated IIA flux vacua and the IIB Freund-Rubin vacua that the distance conjecture (for scalar fields) is satisfied and that the asymptotic directions in the enlarged field space are indeed hyperbolic. This enlarged field space contains the tachyon fields on the unstable D˜p-branes of type II string theory, which can induce the brane charges of the stable D-branes. We suggest that requiring continuous interpolations refines the cobordism conjecture and postdicts the existence of unstable D˜p-branes.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Symplectic formulation of the type IIB scalar potential with
U
-dual fluxes
Authors: Leontaris George K. , Shukla Pramod
Published: March 2024

We present a symplectic formulation of the N=1 four-dimensional type IIB scalar potential arising from a flux superpotential which has four S-dual pairs of fluxes demanded by the U-dual completion arguments. Our symplectic formulation presents a very compact and concise way of expressing the generic scalar potential in just a few terms via using a set of symplectic identities along with the so-called “axionic-flux” combinations. We demonstrate the utility of our symplectic master formula by considering an underlying four-dimensional type IIB supergravity model based on a T6/(Z2×Z2) orientifold, in which the scalar potential induced by the U-dual flux superpotential results in a total of 76 276 terms involving 128 flux parameters. Given that our symplectic formulation does not need the information about the metric of the internal background, it is applicable to the models beyond the toroidal compactifications such as to those which use orientifolds of the Calabi-Yau threefolds.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Wetting and Contact-Angle Hysteresis: Density Asymmetry and van der Waals Force
Authors: Wang Fei , Nestler Britta
Published: March 2024

A droplet depositing on a solid substrate leads to the wetting phenomenon, such as dew on plant leaves. On an ideally smooth substrate, the classic Young’s law has been employed to describe the wetting effect. However, no real substrate is ideally smooth at the microscale. Given this fact, we introduce a surface composition concept to scrutinize the wetting mechanism via considering the liquid-gas density asymmetry and the fluid-solid van der Waals interaction. The current concept enables one to comprehend counterintuitive phenomenon of contact-angle hysteresis on a smooth substrate and increase of contact angle with temperature as well as gas bubble wetting.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Not gone away: how domestic terrorism impacts multinationals in foreign markets
Authors: Owens Martin David , Johnson Elizabeth
Published: March 2024

Purpose

The paper aims to understand how state and non-state domestic terrorism impacts MNEs in foreign markets. Despite the burgeoning literature on terrorism within international business (IB), most research has focused on international terrorism, or terrorism generally. Consequently, there has been limited research examining how domestic or local based terrorism impacts foreign firms.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a conceptual paper.

Findings

Domestic terrorism is the most common form of terrorism in the world today and involves the state and non-state actors. Non-state domestic terrorism can be low intensity or high intensity. High intensity non-state-domestic terrorism typically involves regular and protracted political violence, along with inter-communal violence. This can expose MNEs to considerable operational, governance and legitimacy pressures.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the gap in IB terrorism research with regards domestic or local based terrorism. Drawing on IB theory and critical terrorism research, the paper addresses the nature and impact of domestic terrorism within IB. The authors’ paper shows the operational, governance and legitimacy pressures of both state and non-state domestic terrorism for MNEs in host markets. While most IB scholars consider the threat of non-state terrorism for international firms, this study shows how domestic state terrorism benefits and constrains foreign firms.
Investigating the multifaceted dynamics of cybersecurity practices and their impact on the quality of e-government services: evidence from the KSA
Authors: Al-Hawamleh Ahmad Mtair
Published: March 2024

Purpose

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) is embracing digital transformation and e-government services, aiming to improve efficiency, accessibility and citizen-centricity. Nonetheless, the country faces challenges such as evolving cyber threats. The purpose of this study is to investigate the factors influencing cybersecurity practices to ensure the reliability and security of e-government services.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper investigates the multifaceted dynamics of cybersecurity practices and their impact on the quality and effectiveness of e-government services. Five key factors explored include organizational culture, technology infrastructure, adherence to standards and regulations, employee training and awareness and financial investment in cybersecurity. This study used a quantitative method to gather data from 320 participants. The researcher collected 285 completed questionnaires, excluding unusable or incomplete responses, and analyzed the final data set using partial least squares structural equation modeling.

Findings

The findings show that financial investment in cybersecurity, employee training and awareness and adherence to cybersecurity regulations significantly influence the adoption of robust cybersecurity practices. However, the relationship between organizational culture and cybersecurity practices is less straightforward. The research establishes a strong positive correlation between cybersecurity practices and e-government service quality, highlighting the role of security in fostering public trust and user satisfaction and meeting the evolving needs of citizens and businesses.

Originality/value

This research contributes valuable empirical evidence to the fields of e-government and cybersecurity, offering insights that can inform evidence-based policy decisions and resource allocation. By understanding the nuanced dynamics at play, Saudi Arabia is better poised to fortify its digital governance infrastructure and provide secure, high-quality e-government services to its constituents.
Investigation on information security awareness based on KAB model: the moderating role of age and education level
Authors: Nguyen Binh Huu , Le Huong Nguyen Quynh
Published: March 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the moderating role of sociodemographic factors, specifically age and education level, in the knowledge-attitude-behavior (KAB) model concerning information security awareness (ISA) amid growing technological threats.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a survey methodology, collecting data from 400 working individuals in Vietnam, to test the applicability of the KAB model and evaluate the moderating effects of age and education on the model’s established relationships. In addition, the theoretical model and hypotheses were evaluated using the partial least squares structural equation model (PLS-SEM) approach.

Findings

This research confirms the relationships posited in the KAB model. Notably, it shows that younger employees showcase a more positive attitude and behavior toward information security compared with their older counterparts. In addition, higher education levels strengthen the positive association between information security knowledge and attitude. The findings underscore the imperative for organizations to consider sociodemographic variables when formulating strategies to enhance ISA.

Originality/value

This study extends the KAB model by exploring the impact of sociodemographic factors, focusing on age and education in ISA. Overcoming the oversight in current literature, particularly in the context of technological threats, the research uses PLS-SEM and targets a specific demographic in Vietnam.
Subjective health status and health literacy of African refugees and asylum seekers in Germany: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Bäumel Anika Christin , Sauter Alexandra , Weber Andrea , Leitzmann Michael , Jochem Carmen
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Many refugees and asylum seekers in Germany experience a high disease burden and low health literacy. The current study aims to focus on assessing these issues among African refugees and asylum seekers in Bavaria, Germany. The authors evaluated their self-perceived health status and health literacy, and identified barriers and gaps in health care utilization, intending to improve health care services for this group.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study involving 69 refugees and asylum seekers from Ethiopia, Eritrea and Nigeria. The authors performed descriptive and exploratory statistical analyses.

Findings

The authors found a substantial disease burden in the early stages of resettlement in Germany, particularly mental health symptoms (53.6%) and musculoskeletal problems (47.8%). Challenges in health literacy were observed, such as difficulties in understanding health information and managing emergency situations. Access to interpreters was limited, and understanding treatment certificates was more challenging than using electronic health cards, with 18.2% of participants reporting denial of medical treatment.

Practical implications

These findings highlight the need for early and tailored health support for refugees, with a particular focus on mental health. Efforts should be made to reduce language barriers and improve navigational skills within the health-care system, particularly in emergency situations. Addressing the restricted access to health care and bureaucratic obstacles is crucial for improved health outcomes among refugees.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research is the first to specifically explore the self-reported health status and health literacy of African refugees and asylum seekers in Bavaria, Germany, providing valuable insights into the unique healthcare challenges of this often underrepresented and overlooked population.
A positive psychological approach for improving the well-being and performance of employees
Authors: David Rajasekhar , Singh Sharda , Mikkilineni Sitamma , Ribeiro Neuza
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Today’s competitive business world presents unanticipated challenges to enterprises worldwide. So, the well-being of the employees may be a sustained competitive edge for corporations in improving employee performance. Positive psychology served as the foundation for this study, investigating the interplay between employee well-being and task performance by incorporating organizational-specific factors like organizational virtuousness (OV) and individual-specific factors such as Psychological Capital (PsyCap).

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 639 dyadic responses were gathered from the banking sector, encompassing employees in both private and public banks in India, along with their immediate supervisors. The hypotheses were subsequently examined by applying Structural Equation Modeling (SEM).

Findings

OV and PsyCap are considerably associated with the well-being of employees and task performance, according to the findings. Employee well-being mediates the relationships between the perceptions of Organizational Virtuousness (OV) and task performance, as well as between PsyCap and task performance.

Research limitations/implications

The intense competition and series of scandals in Indian banks urge the introduction of some behavioral precautionary measures. Banks need to understand and intervene in positive organizational behavior and help the employees build strong PsyCap to enhance their well-being and task performance to gain a competitive edge.

Originality/value

The present study integrated Positive Organizational Behavior (POB) and Positive Organizational Scholarship (POS) to enhance work performance.
Green investments, green returns: exploring the link between ESG factors and financial performance in real estate
Authors: Morri Giacomo , Yang Fan , Colantoni Federico
Published: March 2024

Purpose

The aim of this research paper is to analyze the connection between ESG performance and financial performance within the real estate sector. By focusing on ESG ratings and pillar scores as proxies for ESG performance, the study investigates how these factors impact both profitability and market indicators.

Design/methodology/approach

With data sourced from over 680 publicly listed real estate companies, the research employs a fixed effects regression model to analyze the findings. By utilizing this method, the study can assess the impact of governance, environmental and social factors on both the accounting and market performance of real estate companies.

Findings

The outcomes of this study underscore a link between sustainability, particularly environmental aspects and financial performance. However, the study also reveals a contrasting result: governance factors are associated with adverse financial outcomes. Nevertheless, it is important to highlight the limitations as the results present a mixed picture with limited significant findings.

Practical implications

Companies should prioritize improvements in environment to boost profitability, while they should carefully consider the costs and benefits associated with enhancing their governance structure.

Originality/value

By focusing on this industry and adopting a global perspective, the study addresses a gap in the literature. The research’s innovative approach to utilizing ESG ratings and pillar scores as proxies for ESG performance enhances its originality. Furthermore, the research’s identification of the differing impacts of environmental and governance factors on financial outcomes add novel perspectives to the discourse.
Regional cooperative banks, ecosystems and small and medium-sized enterprise financing: the importance of cognitive, social and geographic proximities
Authors: Bezzon Bastien , Labrouche Geoffroy , Levy Rachel
Published: March 2024

Purpose

This study analyzes the role of regional cooperative banks in identifying and financing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from a proximity perspective. Access to finance is a major challenge for SMEs. Regional cooperative banks can remove this barrier based on cooperative bank's characteristics and geographic proximity to SMEs. Understanding the interplay between these financial actors and firms can contribute to a better support of SMEs development.

Design/methodology/approach

The results are based on a case study of eight SMEs located in southwestern France. Interviews were conducted with two regional cooperative funds and eight SMEs. The interview guide included questions related to the company, the projects financed and how financing was accessed.

Findings

Results reveal that a combination of three forms of proximity allows regional cooperative banks and SMEs to establish effective financing operations. They show that regional cooperative banks are key players in the existing financing mechanisms for SMEs. Such financing is often used to gain access to larger players at a later stage. The findings suggest the need for public policies that promote the integration of financing actors in regional ecosystems to advance SMEs' development.

Originality/value

This article examines how SMEs access financing, with a focus on regional cooperative banks, which have received little attention in the literature. Moreover, the relationships between these actors are studied through the lens of proximity. Regional cooperative banks are able to finance projects that may have been overlooked by traditional banks due to trust-building local dynamics.