bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mapping the spatial proteomic signature of dorsal and ventral hippocampus in a mouse model of early Alzheimer’s disease: changes in synaptic plasticity-related proteins associated with sexual dimorphism
Authors: Contreras Ana , Jiménez-Herrera Raquel , Djebari Souhail , Navarro-López Juan D. , Jiménez-Díaz Lydia
Published: May 2024

Background

An initial neuropathological hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the hippocampal dysfunction caused by amyloid-β(Aβ) peptides accumulation. Soluble oligomeric forms of Aβshift synaptic plasticity induction threshold leading to memory deficits in male and female mice in early amyloidosis models. Some protein changes underlying those deficits have been previously studied, but the spatial distribution within the hippocampus, as well as the potential sex differences, remain unknown. Since each hippocampal region (dorsalvs. ventral) has clearly distinct functionality and connectivity, we postulated that some protein changes may be unique to each and might also be sex-dependent.

Methods

An innovative spatial proteomics study was performed to map whole hippocampal proteome distribution using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) imaging mass spectrometry, which allows protein detection with spatial resolution directly on tissue sections. Brains from sixteen adult male and female mice intracerebroventricularly injected with Aβ1-42oligomers or vehicle were sectioned. MALDI imaging was performed using a RapifleXTM MALDI TissuetyperTM TOF/TOF mass spectrometer followed by protein identification by traditional tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) directly on the tissue. To precisely delineate both dorsal and ventral hippocampus, a Nissl staining was performed on succeeding tissue sections.

Results

Of the 234 detected peptides, significant differences in expression levels were found in 34 proteins, due to treatment, sex, or hippocampal location. Moreover, a significant protein-protein interaction (PPI) was observed, showing a relationship to long-term potentiation (LTP), the functional basis of memory. Accordingly, 14 proteins related to synaptic plasticity and/or AD were selected to further study. Results showed many of the altered protein to modulate glycogen synthase kinase-3β(GSK-3β), a protein widely involved in the regulation of synaptic plasticity induction threshold. In fact, hippocampal GSK-3βwas found overactivated suggesting a facilitated long-term depression (LTD) instead of LTP in AD models.

Conclusions

This study offers for the first time the specific protein changes in dorsal/ventral hippocampus in both male and female mice, that modulate GSK-3βactivity, providing new insight in the pathogenesis of early AD and valuable potential biomarkers for early diagnosis and therapeutic targets.
Hierarchical whole-brain modeling of critical synchronization dynamics in human brains
Authors: Myrov Vladislav , Suleimanova Alina , Knapic Samanta , Liu Wenya , Partanen Paula , Vesterinen Maria , Palva Satu , Palva J Matias
Published: May 2024

Brain activity exhibits critical-like dynamics, which is fundamental for cognitive functions. Whole-brain computational modeling has become indispensable in studying the systems-level mechanisms that govern the dynamics of large-scale brain activity in health and disease. However, previous approaches have focused on modeling either functional connectivity or criticality, and capturing both simultaneously in whole-brain systems remains a challenge. Here, we advance a new approach to modeling multi-scale synchronization dynamics with the Hierarchical Kuramoto model. At two levels of hierarchy, the model comprises a network of nodes that each encapsulate a large number of coupled oscillators, which enables dissection of local and inter-areal coupling and dynamics. We found the model to produce oscillations with critical-like dynamics, including emergent long-range temporal correlations (LRTCs) and inter-areal order correlations at the critical transition between asynchronous and synchronous phases. The model predicted unique structure-function relationships for functional observables so that coupling with structure peaked at criticality for LRTCs and order correlations but collapsed for inter-areal phase synchronization. Comparison of the model dynamics with human resting-state magnetoencephalography (MEG) showed that model-MEG correlations were maximized in the subcritical side of an extended critical regime for all observables and across the model parameter space. Finally, we found that the model may also yield realistic-like multi-peak power spectra and that also their similarity with MEG data is maximized below peak criticality. In conclusion, Hierarchical Kuramoto modeling yields realistic and separable local and global synchronization dynamics that are directly comparable with neuroimaging, which opens new avenues for understanding collectivity in brain activity.
Primary role of the Tol-Pal complex in bacterial outer membrane lipid homeostasis
Authors: Tan Wee Boon , Chng Shu-Sin
Published: May 2024

Gram-negative bacteria are defined by an outer membrane (OM) that contributes to envelope integrity and barrier function. Building this bilayer require proper assembly of lipopolysaccharides, proteins, and phospholipids, yet how the balance of these components is achieved is unclear. One system long known for ensuring OM stability is the Tol-Pal complex, which has been implicated in maintaining OM lipid homeostasis. However, assignment of Tol-Pal function has been challenging, owing to its septal localization and associated role(s) during division. Here, we uncouple the function of Tol-Pal in OM lipid homeostasis from its impact on cell division inEscherichia coli, by engineering a chimeric complex that loses septal enrichment. We demonstrate that this peripherally-localized Tol-Pal complex is fully capable of maintaining lipid balance in the OM, thus restoring OM integrity and barrier. Our work establishes the primary function of the Tol-Pal complex in OM lipid homeostasis, independent of its role during division.
Fine-scale movement data reveal surface foraging and nocturnal flight activity in the endangered Bermuda petrel
Authors: Becciu Paolo , Patterson Allison , Gjerdrum Carina , Madeiros Jeremy , Campioni Letizia
Published: May 2024

Foraging behavior plays a fundamental role in animal fitness and population dynamics, particularly in marine ecosystems where seabirds like petrels (small Procellariiformes) showcase a diverse array of foraging strategies finely adapted to the pelagic environment. The extent and remote nature of their foraging grounds makes direct observation of foraging behaviour impractical, thereby requiring the use of remote tracking technologies. We deployed miniaturized multi-sensor biologgers and collected fine scale movement data to investigate the at-sea behaviours of the Bermuda petrelPterodroma cahow, a poorly studied and highly threatened gadfly petrel, specialised on mesopelagic prey. GPS-tracking data revealed extensive foraging trips, in consistent directions, over remote oceanic regions. Time-depth-recorders provided new insights into petrel feeding techniques suggesting that the meso-bathypelagic prey targeted by petrels must be available in the very upper layer of the water surface, given their very limited diving activity (99.99% of dives had 0.1 m of depth). Accelerometer data revealed 3 flying- and 3 water-related behaviours. Flying behaviours reflected the expected dynamic soaring flight strategy of procellariforms; individuals spent more than three-quarters of their time in flight with flying-non-flapping being the most common behaviour under all conditions. The behaviour classified as “flying-intensive” was infrequently observed but could indicate aerial dipping, a characteristic foraging technique ofPterodromaspecies. The remaining time was spent in three water behaviours: active, inactive and intensive, with the latter being less common but thought to reflect scavenging and prey seizing. Flying-related behaviours increased with negative sun elevation values, highlighting greater flight activity during night compared to the day, while water behaviours were more common during the day. While some of our findings may require further validation to confirm their relevance to foraging behaviour, our work offers new and valuable insights to consider when assessing the extent and nature of offshore anthropogenic-related risks faced by petrels.
Reinforcement learning when your life depends on it: a neuro-economic theory of learning
Authors: Jiang Jiamu , Foyard Emilie , van Rossum Mark C.W.
Published: May 2024

Synaptic plasticity enables animals to adapt to their environment, but memory formation can consume a substantial amount of metabolic energy, potentially impairing survival. Hence, a neuro-economic dilemma arises whether learning is a profitable investment or not, and the brain must therefore judiciously regulate learning. Indeed, in experiments it was observed that during starvation, Drosophila suppress formation of energy-intensive aversive memories. Here we include energy considerations in a reinforcement learning framework. Simulated flies learned to avoid noxious stimuli through synaptic plasticity in either the energy expensive long-term memory (LTM) pathway, or the decaying anesthesia-resistant memory (ARM) pathway. The objective of the flies is to maximize their lifespan, which is calculated with a hazard function. We find that strategies that switch between the LTM and ARM pathways based on energy reserve and reward prediction error, prolong lifespan. Our study highlights the significance of energy-regulation of memory pathways and dopaminergic control for adaptive learning and survival. It might also benefit engineering applications of reinforcement learning under resources constraints.
Experience-dependent, sexually dimorphic synaptic connectivity defined by sex-specific cadherin expression
Authors: Liao Chien-Po , Majeed Maryam , Hobert Oliver
Published: May 2024

We describe here the molecular mechanisms by which juvenile experience defines patterns of sexually dimorphic synaptic connectivity in the adult nervous system of the nematodeC. elegans. We show that starvation of juvenile males disrupts serotonin- dependent activation of the CREB transcription factor in a nociceptive sensory neuron, PHB. CREB acts through a cascade of transcription factors to control expression of an atypical cadherin protein, FMI-1/Flamingo. During postembryonic development, FMI-1/Flamingo has the capacity to promote and maintain synaptic connectivity of the PHB nociceptive sensory to a command interneuron, AVA, in both sexes, but the serotonin transcriptional regulatory cassette antagonizes FMI-1/Flamingo expression in males, thereby establishing sexually dimorphic connectivity between PHB and AVA. A critical regulatory node in this process is the CREB-target LIN-29, a Zn finger transcription factor which integrates four different layers of information – sexual specificity, past feeding status, time and cell-type specificity. Our findings provide the mechanistic details of how an early juvenile experience defines sexually dimorphic synaptic connectivity.
Cadherin 4 assembles a family of color-selective retinal circuits that respond to light offset
Authors: Olguin Aline Giselle Rangel , Rochon Pierre-Luc , Theriault Catherine , Brown Thomas , Cayouette Michel , Cook Erik P. , Krishnaswamy Arjun
Published: May 2024

Retinal interneurons and projection neurons (retinal ganglion cells, RGCs) connect in specific combinations in a specialized neuropil called the inner plexiform layer (IPL). The IPL is divided into multiple sublaminae, with neurites of each neuronal type confined to one or a few layers. This laminar specificity is a major determinant of circuit specificity and circuit function. Using a combination of approaches we show that RGCs targeting IPL sublamina 1 and 3a express the adhesion molecule cadherin 4 (Cdh4). Using calcium imaging and iterative immunostaining, we classified Cdh4-RGCs into 9 types that each encode unique aspects of dark visual stimuli. Cdh4 loss selectively disrupted the layer- targeting of these RGCs, reduced their synaptic inputs from interneurons, and severely altered their visual responses. Overexpression of Cdh4 in other retinal neurons directed their neurites to s1-3a through homophilic interactions. Taken together, these results demonstrate that Cdh4 is a novel layer targeting system for nearly a third of all RGC.
Domain consolidation in Bacterial 50S assembly revealed by Anti-Sense Oligonucleotide Probing
Authors: Sheng Kai , Dong Xiyu , Aiyer Sriram , Lee Joan , Marquardt Selena Djordjevic , Lyumkis Dmitry , Williamson James R.
Published: May 2024

Investigating the intricate and rapid folding kinetics of large RNA-protein complexes (RNPs), like the bacterial ribosome, remains a formidable challenge in structural biology. Previous genetic approaches to probe assembly have focused on modulating the expression of either r-proteins or assembly factors. Here, anti-sense oligonucleotides (ASOs) were used to disrupt native RNA/RNA and RNA/protein interactions, in order to generate novel folding intermediates. In anin vitroco-transcriptional assembly assay, 8 assembly inhibitor ASOs were identified. Using cryo-electron microscopy, 38 new intermediate structures were determined resulting from the specific inhibitions. In particular a novel intermediate class provided compelling evidence of independent rRNA domain folding before proper interdomain docking. Three PNAs targeting domain-I of 23S- rRNA further subdivided the previously identified assembly core into smaller blocks representing the earliest steps in assembly. The resulting assembly graph reveals template-directed RNA foldon docking and domain consolidation, which provides a hierarchical view of the RNP assembly process.
A common computational and neural anomaly across mouse models of autism
Authors: Noel Jean-Paul , Balzani Edoardo , Acerbi Luigi , Benson Julius ,   The International Brain Laboratory, Savin Cristina , Angelaki Dora E.
Published: May 2024

Computational psychiatry has suggested that humans within the autism spectrum disorder (ASD) inflexibly update their expectations (i.e., Bayesian priors). Here, we leveraged high-yield rodent psychophysics (n = 75 mice), extensive behavioral modeling (including principled and heuristics), and (near) brain-wide single cell extracellular recordings (over 53k units in 150 brain areas) to ask (1) whether mice with different genetic perturbations associated with ASD show this same computational anomaly, and if so, (2) what neurophysiological features are shared across genotypes in subserving this deficit. We demonstrate that mice harboring mutations inFmr1,Cntnap2, andShank3Bshow a blunted update of priors during decision-making. Neurally, the differentiating factor between animals flexibly and inflexibly updating their priors was a shift in the weighting of prior encoding from sensory to frontal cortices. Further, in mouse models of ASD frontal areas showed a preponderance of units coding for deviations from the animals’ long-run prior, and sensory responses did not differentiate between expected and unexpected observations. These findings demonstrate that distinct genetic instantiations of ASD may yield common neurophysiological and behavioral phenotypes.
Bidirectional connectivity changes in the frontotemporal areas reflect figure–ground reversal in multivoiced music
Authors: Kim Chan Hee , Seo Jeong-Eun , Chung Chun Kee
Published: May 2024

When listening to multivoiced music, it is possible to perceive distinct voices in differing pitch ranges independently. The melody that one focuses on becomes the figure, and other voices form the background. Shifting focus from one voice to another causes a figure–ground reversal, which may easily occur as a result of anticipation within repeated passages in a musical structure. We previously found that frontotemporal connectivity reflects changes in the melody of “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” (TTLS) in Mozart’s 12 Variations K. 265. We hypothesized that if frontotemporal connectivity remains unchanged in repeated passages, the melody of TTLS remains the figure; however, if connectivity changes, the melody shifts toward the background. Our findings show that frontotemporal connectivity only changed during the final, fourth repetition. This was accompanied by a bidirectional correlation in frontotemporal regions, implying both top-down and bottom-up processes. We captured a momentary figure–ground reversal in the multivoiced texture of continuously changing and developing music.
Trace anomaly form factors from lattice QCD
Authors: Wang Bigeng , He Fangcheng , Wang Gen , Draper Terrence , Liang Jian , Liu Keh-Fei , Yang Yi-Bo ,   χQCD Collaboration
Published: May 2024

The hadron mass can be obtained through the calculation of the trace of the energy-momentum tensor in the hadron which includes the trace anomaly and sigma terms. The anomaly due to conformal symmetry breaking is believed to be an important ingredient for hadron mass generation and confinement. In this work, we will present the calculation of the glue part of the trace anomaly form factors of the pion up to Q2∼4.3  GeV2 and the nucleon up to Q2∼1  GeV2. The calculations are performed on a domain wall fermion ensemble with overlap valence quarks at seven valence pion masses varying from ∼250 to ∼540  MeV, including the unitary point ∼340  MeV. We calculate the radius of the glue trace anomaly for the pion and the nucleon from the z expansion. By performing a two-dimensional Fourier transform on the glue trace anomaly form factors in the infinite momentum frame with no energy transfer, we also obtain their spatial distributions for several valence quark masses. The results are qualitatively extrapolated to the physical valence pion mass with systematic errors from the unphysical sea quark mass, discretization effects in the renormalization sum rule, and finite-volume effects to be addressed in the future. We find the pion’s form factor changes sign, as does its spatial distribution, for light quark masses. This explains how the trace anomaly contribution to the pion mass approaches zero toward the chiral limit.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Covariant Compton Amplitudes in Gravity with Classical Spin
Authors: Bjerrum-Bohr N. Emil J. , Chen Gang , Skowronek Marcos
Published: May 2024

We develop a novel amplitude bootstrap technique manifestly free of unphysical poles for classically spinning particles interacting with gravitons utilizing only the double-copy and physical factorization limits. Combined with nonfactorization polynomial contact contributions from physical data for Kerr black holes, we can address high-spin-order covariant gravitational Compton amplitudes, identifying a pattern for the amplitude that we believe could extend to all orders in spin. Finally, we outline applications and outstanding questions.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Production of
p
Nuclei from
r
-Process Seeds: The
νr
Process
Authors: Xiong Zewei , Martínez-Pinedo Gabriel , Just Oliver , Sieverding Andre
Published: May 2024

We present a nucleosynthesis process that may take place on neutron-rich ejecta experiencing an intensive neutrino flux. The nucleosynthesis proceeds similarly to the standard r process, a sequence of neutron captures and beta decays with, however, charged-current neutrino absorption reactions on nuclei operating much faster than beta decays. Once neutron-capture reactions freeze out the produced r process, neutron-rich nuclei undergo a fast conversion of neutrons into protons and are pushed even beyond the β stability line, producing the neutron-deficient p nuclei. This scenario, which we denote as the νr process, provides an alternative channel for the production of p nuclei and the short-lived nucleus Nb92. We discuss the necessary conditions posed on the astrophysical site for the νr process to be realized in nature. While these conditions are not fulfilled by current neutrino-hydrodynamic models of r-process sites, future models, including more complex physics and a larger variety of outflow conditions, may achieve the necessary conditions in some regions of the ejecta.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Variational manifolds for ground states and scarred dynamics of blockade-constrained spin models on two- and three-dimensional lattices
Authors: Li Joey , Giudici Giuliano , Pichler Hannes
Published: May 2024

We introduce a variational manifold of simple tensor network states for the study of a family of constrained models that describe spin-12 systems as realized by Rydberg atom arrays. Our manifold permits analytical calculation via perturbative expansion of one- and two-point functions in arbitrary spatial dimensions and allows for efficient computation of the matrix elements required for variational energy minimization and variational time evolution in up to three dimensions. We apply this framework to the PXP model on the hypercubic lattice in one, two, and three dimensions and show that, in each case, it exhibits quantum phase transitions breaking the sublattice symmetry in equilibrium, and hosts quantum many-body scars out of equilibrium. We demonstrate that our variational ansatz qualitatively captures all these phenomena and predicts key quantities with an accuracy that increases with the dimensionality of the lattice, and conclude that our method can be interpreted as a generalization of mean-field theory to constrained spin models.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Computing eigenfrequency sensitivities near exceptional points
Authors: Binkowski Felix , Kullig Julius , Betz Fridtjof , Zschiedrich Lin , Walther Andrea , Wiersig Jan , Burger Sven
Published: May 2024

Exceptional points are spectral degeneracies of non-Hermitian systems where both eigenfrequencies and eigenmodes coalesce. The eigenfrequency sensitivities near an exceptional point are significantly enhanced, whereby they diverge directly at the exceptional point. Capturing this enhanced sensitivity is crucial for the investigation and optimization of exceptional-point-based applications, such as optical sensors. We present a numerical framework based on contour integration and algorithmic differentiation to accurately and efficiently compute eigenfrequency sensitivities near exceptional points. We demonstrate the framework for an optical microdisk cavity and derive a semianalytical solution to validate the numerical results. The computed eigenfrequency sensitivities are used to track the exceptional point along an exceptional surface in the parameter space. The presented framework can be applied to any kind of resonance problem, e.g., with arbitrary geometry or with exceptional points of arbitrary order.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Effects of higher-order Casimir-Polder interactions on Rydberg atom spectroscopy
Authors: Dutta B. , Carvalho J. C. de Aquino , Garcia-Arellano G. , Pedri P. , Laliotis A. , Boldt C. , Kaushal J. , Scheel S.
Published: May 2024

In the extreme near field, when the spatial extension of the atomic wavefunction is no longer negligible compared to the atom-surface distance, the dipole approximation is no longer sufficient to describe Casimir-Polder interactions. Here we calculate the higher-order, quadrupole and octupole, contributions to Casimir-Polder energy shifts of Rydberg atoms close to a dielectric surface. We subsequently investigate the effects of these higher-order terms in thin-cell and selective reflection spectroscopy. Beyond its fundamental interest, this regime of extremely small atom surface separations is relevant for quantum technology applications with Rydberg or surface-bound atoms interfacing with photonic platforms.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
An emergent ontology for digitally modeling existing buildings: examining Kyoto’s Nishiki market
Authors: Christenson Mike
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This project examines digital modeling strategies for existing buildings. In this context, it aims to question assumptions about the need for geometric accuracy and the efficacy of predefined ontologies. As a counterpoint to prevailing digital modeling strategies, this project proposes a digital modeling approach using a project-specific, emergent ontology.

Design/methodology/approach

Nishiki Market, in Kyoto, Japan, is studied as a test case. The emergent-ontology modeling process is introduced with an initial minimal set of operations including basic fold and trim operations applicable to surfaces. As the model develops iteratively, new situations are encountered for which existing rules are insufficient. In response, the model maker’s subjective judgment is invoked to introduce new operations, and ontological rules are allowed to expand.

Findings

The emergent-ontology approach, when executed on the Nishiki Market test case, enables representation of specific architectural qualities, highlighting semantic distinctions between digitally modeled elements of real-world features. The modeling approach generated project-specific knowledge, informing disciplinary understanding. Ontological emergence enabled semantic relationships to be disclosed and newly constructed.

Originality/value

The project proposes a novel methodology using an emergent ontology for digitally modeling existing buildings. Instead of remaining within the limitations a predefined ontology, the model maker’s subjective decisions shape the model’s ongoing development. This interpretive approach allows project-specific knowledge generation while challenging prevailing assumptions about accuracy and consistency in digital models of existing buildings.
Understanding digital transformation challenges for online learning and teaching in higher education institutions: a review and research framework
Authors: Sahni Shalini , Verma Sushma , Kaurav Rahul Pratap Singh
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The widespread uptake of digital technology tools for online teaching and learning reached its peak during the nationwide lockdown triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic. It transformed the higher education institutions (HEIs) marketplace both in developed and developing countries. However, in this process of digital transformation, several HEIs, specifically from developing countries, faced major challenges. That threatened to affect their sustainability and performance. In this vein, this study conducts a bibliometric review to map the challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic and suggest strategies for HEIs to cope with post-pandemic situations in the future.

Design/methodology/approach

This comprehensive review encompasses 343 papers published between 2020 and 2023, employing a systematic approach that combines bibliometrics and content analysis to thoroughly evaluate the articles.

Findings

The investigation revealed a lack of published work addressing the specific challenges faced by the faculty members affecting their well-being. The study underscores the importance of e-learning technology adoption for higher education sustainability by compelling both students and teachers to rely heavily on social media platforms to maintain social presence and facilitate remote learning. The reduced interpersonal interaction during the pandemic has had negative consequences for academic engagement and professional advancement for both educators and students.

Practical implications

This has implications for policymakers and the management of HEIs, as it may prove useful in reenvisioning and redesigning future curricula. The paper concludes by developing a sustainable learning framework using a blended approach. Additionally, we also provide directions for future research to scholars.

Originality/value

This study has implications for policymakers and HEI management to rethink the delivery of future courses with a focus on education and institute sustainability. Finally, the research also proposes a hybrid learning framework for sustainability and forms a robust foundation for scholars in future research.
Unsteady slip flow of special second-grade fluid induced by Fe3O4 particles past a movable sheet with magnetic and nonlinear heat source/sink
Authors: Khan Umair , Zaib Aurang , Ishak Anuar , Sherif El-Sayed M. , Wróblewski Piotr
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Ferrofluids are aqueous or non-aqueous solutions with colloidal particles of iron oxide nanoparticles with high magnetic characteristics. Their magnetic characteristics enable them to be controlled and manipulated when ferrofluids are exposed to magnetic fields. This study aims to inspect the features of unsteady stagnation point flow (SPF) and heat flux from the surface by incorporating ferromagnetic particles through a special kind of second-grade fluid (SGF) across a movable sheet with a nonlinear heat source/sink and magnetic field effect. The mass suction/injection and stretching/shrinking boundary conditions are also inspected to calculate the fine points of the features of multiple solutions.

Design/methodology/approach

The leading equations that govern the ferrofluid flow are reduced to a group of ordinary differential equations by applying similarity variables. The converted equations are numerically solved through the bvp4c solver. Afterward, study and discussion are carried out to examine the different physical parameters of the characteristics of nanofluid flow and thermal properties.

Findings

Multiple solutions are revealed to happen for situations of unsteadiness, shrinking as well as stretching sheets. Greater suction slows the separation of the boundary layers and causes the critical values to expand. The region where the multiple solutions appear is observed to expand with increasing values of the magnetic, non-Newtonian and suction parameters. Moreover, the fluid velocity significantly uplifts while the temperature declines due to the suction parameter.

Originality/value

The novelty of the work is to deliberate the impact of mass suction/injection on the unsteady SPF through the special second-grade ferrofluids across a movable sheet with an erratic heat source/sink. The confirmed results provide a very good consistency with the accepted papers. Previous studies have not yet fully explored the entire analysis of the proposed model.
Using visual management to improve logistics operations
Authors: Sadowski Adam , Jędrzejczak Ryszard , Starzynska Dorota , Engelseth Per
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to show the impact of applied visual management (VM) on performance in logistics operations in the construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study was conducted at a branch of an international company located in Poland on VM implementation in the transport and storage of this firm. Active research was used to include the outlook of top management on the implementation and use of VMs.

Findings

This study demonstrates how VM is an effective way to improve performance in the studied logistics functions. The complex nature of the effect is revealed not only in warehouse and transport operations but also in handling operations, improving operational planning and specializing warehouse teams.

Originality/value

Organizational culture, work discipline and value system in the group of production and warehouse workers is of importance in implementing and efficiently using VM resources. Using a VM is complex.
Approaches to improving valuation decision-making: a review of the literature
Authors: Liman Hassan Shuaibu , Amidu Abdul-Rasheed , Levy Deborah
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The complexity of property valuation, coupled with valuers’ cognitive limitations, makes some degree of error inevitable in valuations. However, given the crucial role that valuations play in the efficient functioning of the economy, there is a need for continuous improvement in the reliability of reported values by enhancing the quality of the decision-making process. The purpose of this paper is to review previous research on valuation decision-making, with particular interest in examining the approaches to improving the quality of valuation decisions and identifying potential areas for further research.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper adopts a narrative approach to review 42 research articles that were obtained from Scopus and Web of Science databases and through author citation searches.

Findings

Our findings show that existing literature is skewed towards examining the use of technology in the form of decision support systems (DSS), with limited research attention on non-technological (i.e. behavioural) approaches to improving the quality of valuation decisions. We summarise the non-technological approaches and note that much of the discussions on these approaches often appear as recommendations arising from other studies rather than original investigations in their own rights.

Practical implications

We conclude that studies investigating the effectiveness of the non-technological approaches to improving valuation decision-making are lacking, providing various avenues for further research.

Originality/value

This paper presents the first attempt to provide a comprehensive overview of non-technological approaches to improving the quality of valuation decisions.
Unveiling the mechanisms by which inclusive leadership influences the good soldier syndrome among health-care employees
Authors: Joshy Lishin , Varghese Ranjana
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between inclusive leadership (IL), psychological safety (PS), affective commitment (AC) and organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) at the workplace. By understanding the sequential linkages, the research aims to provide insights for fostering a positive organizational culture that promotes employee commitment and employees’ willingness to go the extra mile for the organization.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors study how IL and OCB are related through PS and AC. For this purpose, cross-sectional data from 384 nursing professionals in India was collected and structural equation modeling was conducted on the same using IBM AMOS.

Findings

The study found that IL has a major impact on OCB. The study further found that perceived IL leads to PS which is associated with OCB through AC.

Research limitations/implications

The study has many theoretical and practical implications. This study uses a framework that is based on Affective events theory. In a health-care environment, IL can foster AC by promoting a culture of respect, collaboration and value for diverse perspectives, which enhances health-care professionals’ emotional attachment to their work and the organization. Additionally, by encouraging open communication and a sense of belonging, IL contributes to OCB, as health-care staff are more likely to engage in discretionary behaviors that support the overall effectiveness and positive functioning of the health-care team if PS is improved, ultimately improving patient care outcomes.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is one of the primary studies that looks into the sequential mechanism through which IL impacts OCB.
Organization capital and modified audit opinion
Authors: Matonti Gaetano , Iuliano Giuseppe , Vlismas Orestes
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the effects of intellectual capital (IC) on the occurrence of a modified audit opinion decision. The authors expect that high IC intensive firms are positively associated with the occurrence of a modified audit opinion since they are associated with an increased business risk and are more likely to exhibit issues concerning their financial health and stability.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a data sample of 423 listed firms from Greece, Italy, Spain and Portugal over a 10-year period, the authors estimated a logistic regression model to examine the effects of IC on the probability that a modified audit opinion is issued. The authors used organizational capital as a measure of a firm’s intensity on IC.

Findings

Empirical findings indicate a significant and positive relationship between the IC and the likelihood of a firm receiving a modified audit opinion decision.

Originality/value

This study expands prior literature by exploring the predictive ability of IC on the likelihood of a firm receiving a modified audit opinion decision.
Fostering the discussion of planetary health in occupational therapy and physiotherapy
Authors: Eustachio João Henrique Paulino Pires , Filho Walter Leal , Baars Caterina , Barbosa‐Silva Jordana , Lourenção Marina , Barbir Jelena , Röseler Jasmin , Büddig Swantje , de Lima Priscilla Queiroz , Bandos Melissa Cavalcanti
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Occupational therapists and physiotherapists aim to promote health, prevent various diseases and help people in their rehabilitation processes. So far, there is a paucity of understanding of the big picture of how the new paradigm of planetary health (PH) is connected to the education and practice of these professionals.

Methods

This research aimed to address this gap by investigating and deploying a bibliometric analysis to elucidate the pivotal role of occupational therapists and physiotherapists in addressing PH challenges. The ultimate goal is to construct a comprehensive framework crosschecking the bibliometric analysis and the collection of 10 case studies selected by experts to outline how best practices in occupational therapy and physiotherapy, related to the three pillars of sustainability and the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), can contribute to increasing PH.

Results

The bibliometric analysis revealed four major research strands: 1) enhancing patient care and quality of life; 2) integrating sustainability in health care and rehabilitation; 3) professional development and clinical competence; and 4) evidence‐based practice and quality improvement. Moreover, further temporal analysis revealed how the topic evolved, from advancing evidence‐based practice and clinical effectiveness, exploring the strengthening of health care and person‐centred practices, to connecting the topic to aspects also predicted by the SDGs, such as integrating environmental and climate concerns in therapy and addressing psychological and self‐care impacts on health. The case studies confirmed this trend, and a framework of PH in occupational therapy and physiotherapy through the lens of the SDGs was developed to support future research and practitioners in advancing this research field.

Conclusions

Occupational therapists and physiotherapists are essential players in public health and can integrate sustainability at every level of practice, from using resources during therapy sessions to advocating for more sustainable lifestyles.
Power Dynamics in Discussions of Contemporary Jungian Theory and Practice
Authors: Johnson Jane , Ryde Julia
Published: May 2024

Groups of Jungian analysts, which included the present authors, met to discuss four key theoretical concepts, each of which was felt to have problematic aspects if used unquestioningly in contemporary practice. The concepts were: The Primitive, Inner and Outer Worlds, Contrasexuality and Participation Mystique. The discussions were informed by clinical material and specific papers chosen for their critical evaluation of the topic. Four recorded transcripts were made, with permission, for further consideration of the relationship between contemporary Jungian theory and practice using the research method of thematic analysis. Three main themes were identified: Work of Analysis, Frames of Reference and Power Dynamics. The authors discuss the themes in relation to the overarching theme of power, understood as operating at conscious and unconscious levels. The artwork “Cold Dark Matter: An Exploded View” by Cornelia Parker is used as a metaphor in discussing the dynamic of challenging foundational concepts. The authors suggest that power dynamics are intrinsic in both the difficulty and the benefits of critically evaluating key concepts, binding together the theoretical (what informs us) with the clinical (what we do in the consulting room) as well as blowing apart pre‐conceived notions of what underpins the analyst’s work.
Correlation‐savvy sellers
Authors: Strausz Roland
Published: May 2024

A multi‐product monopolist sells sequentially to a buyer who privately learns his valuations. Using big data, the monopolist learns the intertemporal correlation of the buyer's valuations. Perfect price discrimination is generally unattainable—even when the seller learns the correlation perfectly, has full commitment, and in the limit where the consumption good about which the buyer has ex ante private information becomes insignificant. This impossibility is due to informational externalities that require information rents for the buyer's later consumption. These rents induce upward and downward distortions, violating the generalized no distortion at the top principle of dynamic mechanism design.
Urgent pandemic messaging of WHO, World Bank, and G20 is inconsistent with their evidence base
Authors: Bell David , Brown Garrett Wallace , von Agris Jean , Tacheva Blagovesta
Published: May 2024

When international agencies make claims of an “existential threat” to humanity and advocate for urgent action from countries, it should be a safe assumption that they are consistent with their own data. However, a review of the data and evidentiary citations underlying the claims of the World Health Organization (WHO), the World Bank, and the Group of Twenty (G20) reveals a troubling picture in which the stated urgency and burden of infectious disease outbreaks, namely those of pandemic threat, is grossly misrepresented. These discrepancies in key documents and subsequent recitations in pandemic preparedness proposals have significant policy and financial implications. Disproportionate pandemic preparedness based on these false premises risks a significant opportunity cost through unnecessary diversion of financial and political resources away from global health priorities of higher burden. As WHO Member States plan to transform the way international health emergencies are managed at the World Health Assembly in May 2024, there is a crucial need to pause, rethink, and ensure future policy reflects evidence of need.
Latvia: Political Developments and Data in 2023
Authors: IKSTENS JĀNIS
Published: May 2024

The elections of the state president by the Latvian Parliament brought about not only a new Cabinet and a new prime minister but also a new coalition and an advancement of the social liberal agenda, including the legal regulation of same‐sex partnership. The new Cabinet continued a strongly supportive Ukraine policy aided by de‐Russification efforts at the grassroots level. The left‐leaning Progressives became part of the governing coalition for the first time, but their impact on government policies remains to be seen.
Postextubation dysphagia management in Danish intensive care units: A national survey
Authors: Nielsen Anne Højager , Kaldan Gudrun , Gade Lotte Madsen , Egerod Ingrid
Published: May 2024

Background

Postextubation dysphagia (PED) is a common complication to endotracheal intubation in critically ill patients and may lead to pneumonia, prolonged ventilation, longer hospital stays, and increased mortality. Recognizing dysphagia is paramount to preventing adverse events. The aim of this study was to describe PED management by investigating practice in Danish intensive care units (ICUs) focusing on current practice in 2023 (screening, prevention, and treatment), perceived best practice (barriers and facilitators), and when possible, to compare practice in 2017 and 2023.

Methods

Self‐reported, cross‐sectional survey of dysphagia practice in Danish ICUs administered from April to May 2023. In addition, data were compared with the 2017 Dysphagia in Intensive Care Evaluation study, when possible.

Results

Only half of Danish ICUs reported to have a PED protocol, and less than half routinely screen patients for dysphagia after extubation. Most common screening methods were the oral mechanism examination, water test, and Facio‐oral tract therapy. Nurses and physicians often relied on an overall physical assessment of the patient. Best treatment methods were uniformly agreed to be patient positioning, modification of food and fluids, use of ergonomic utensils, and compensatory maneuvers. Key barriers to dysphagia management were lack of specialized staff, under‐recognition of dysphagia as a health issue, and lack of standardized protocols.

Conclusion

Awareness of PED is increasing and identification, prevention, and treatment is slowly improving, but systematic implementation of protocols for dysphagia screening and treatment could enhance dysphagia management in Danish ICUs.
Approximate inferences for Bayesian hierarchical generalised linear regression models
Authors: Berman Brandon , Johnson Wesley O. , Shen Weining
Published: May 2024

Generalised linear mixed regression models are fundamental in statistics. Modelling random effects that are shared by individuals allows for correlation among those individuals. There are many methods and statistical packages available for analysing data using these models. Most require some form of numerical or analytic approximation because the likelihood function generally involves intractable integrals over the latents. The Bayesian approach avoids this issue by iteratively sampling the full conditional distributions for various blocks of parameters and latent random effects. Depending on the choice of the prior, some full conditionals are recognisable while others are not. In this paper we develop a novel normal approximation for the random effects full conditional, establish its asymptotic correctness and evaluate how well it performs. We make the case for hierarchical binomial and Poisson regression models with canonical link functions, for hierarchical gamma regression models with log link and for other cases. We also develop what we term a sufficient reduction (SR) approach to the Markov Chain Monte Carlo algorithm that allows for making inferences about all model parameters by replacing the full conditional for the latent variables with a considerably reduced dimensional function of the latents. We expect that this approximation could be quite useful in situations where there are a very large number of latent effects, which may be occurring in an increasingly ‘Big Data’ world. In the sequel, we compare our methods with INLA, which is a particularly popular method and which has been shown to be excellent in terms of speed and accuracy across a variety of settings. Our methods appear to be comparable to theirs in terms of accuracy, while INLA was faster, for the settings we considered. In addition, we note that our methods and those of others that involve Gibbs sampling trivially handle parameters that are functions of multiple parameters, while INLA approximations do not. Our primary illustration is for a three‐level hierarchical binomial regression model for data on health outcomes for patients who are clustered within physicians who are clustered within particular hospitals or hospital systems.